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Home , Ewing Young, Fort Umpqua, Fort William (Oregon), Frances Fuller Victor, Joseph Gale, Loriot (ship)

HISTORY OF

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE

BY HORACE S. LYMAN

ASSOCIATE BOARD OF EDITORS HARVEY W. SCOTT CHARLES B. BELLINGERL AND FREDERIC G. YOUNG

VOLUME THREE

THE. NORTH PACIFIC PUBLISHING SOCIETY NEw YoRx mcmIII

I I - I - - I I.- I ... -.- . k.-T lt- -- I - I - I 3=

HISTORY OF OREGON ______X Z ~ r ~ f l

SYNOPSIS 0 CHAPTER I TiaE Ammuc.A PEoPLE. Days of Adventure- ish Monopoly Intrei American People-Tri - Character of Amer Irving's Observations -

of the Wilderness "Y- larged by the Movem( COPYRIGHT 1903 Mountains-" Rendez-v Lzwis A. WILLIAMS -Fur Companies-E souri Fur Company ALL RIGHTS RESEURVID RockyMountain Fur Cc ley in Utali-Tarasco -Sublette- Smith-Ja -Atta( the Mouth of the IUmpc McLoughlin- Compan3 ger, Milton Sublette, F Jervais-" Pegleg"118 -J. L. Meek-Dr. iRc to the Rocky Mountaiin CHAPTER IT PERIOD or AGITATioN AND Continued Interest at of Colonization SchemE Publication Office, the Type of Jonathan, Agitator - Prolific 1 136 Liberty Street Congress-Visits Wast Now York, N. Y., U. S. A. ony-Makes the- Tour t -Partyfi SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTERS CHAPTER I THE AmEuCAN PEOPLE ...... 41-68 Days of Adventure-A New Center-Brit- ish Monopoly Intrenched-Encounter the American People-Trappers from St. Louis -Character of American Mountain Men- Irving's Observations-The " Stark Tramper of the Wilderness "-American Ideas En- larged by the Movement Toward the Rocky T 1903 Mountains-" Rendezvous " and " Holes " VILLTM9 -Fur Companies-Ezekiel Williams-Mis- souri Fur Company - Samuel Ruddock- RESERVED RockyMountain Fur Company-Ashley-Ash- ley in -Tarascon's Idea-Beckwourth -Sublette-Smith-Jackson-Adventures of Jedediah Smith-Attacked by the Indians at the Mouth of the Umpqua-Account Given by McLoughlin-Company Reorganized-Brid- ger, Milton Sublette, Frapp, Fitzpatrick, and Jervais-" Pegleg " Smith-G. W. Ebberts -J. L. Meek-Dr. Robert Newell-Wagons to the .

CHAPTER II PERIOD OF AGITATION AND ADVENTURE ...... 69-112 Continued Interest at Boston-A Promoter of Colonization Schemes-Hall J. Kelley-Of the Type of Jonathan Carver-An Unresting Agitator - Prolific Writer - Memorializes Congress-Visits -Forms a Col- ony-Makes the Tour to Oregon-Meets with Ewing Young-Partyfrom California-Reach

M I I

Vi THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S& Oregon-Meet with Trouble from Indians- Party South of 490 to b Refused Hospitality at Vancouver- States-" Charges Joint 0( of Horse-stealing by Governor Fi- Occupancy for the]I gueroa of California-Kelley Admitted at fessor Young. Vancouver on Account of fIlnes s-Accepts Passage by Hudson's Bay Vessel to Sand- CRAPTER IV wich Islands-Young Determines to, Settle in THEi 4AcEONMNz~CA1 the -Others of the Party Remain in Oregon-Estimates of Kelley and Religious Sentimi His Work-The Enterprise of Bonneville- Touched- The Nez Scheme Financed by Alfred Seton-Wagons Report of Their Vi to the Waters of the Pacific Slope-Among in the New York Ch Diso the Nez Perces-Penetrates the Hudson's Bay way's- Walker Territory as Far as the Columbia -Compelled Action of the fliuoi to Quit the Country-Wyeth's Enterprise- triot-GeorgeCatlin First Expedition-A Gallant Effort-By Sea Indians on the Eve to Baltimore-Journey to the Rocky Response of the Met] Mou-n- J tains-Laborious Journey to the Columbia- ason. Lee and His C Vaucouver-Missioi Arrive Destitute at Vancouver-Loss of the Vessel- Start for Home-Projects Considered Prairie-Progress -Second Expeditio-n-Delay of Vessel-Port Lee's Early Life a Hall and -Loss of Men-Siek- Hines-Response o: Commissioners ness -Destructive Comnpetition-Project Fi- for]I nallvAbandoned. terian and Congreg er's Exploring Tomn MIAPTER 121T and Their Wives- AGITrATION n; CONG;REss...... 113-128 Waiilatpu and at L. Sentiment at the Capital -Ph4sunig of the of These Missionari Situation - Calhoun's Recommendations - Ployd'Is Bill in the Honse for Timmediate Mil- CHAPTER V tary Occupation of the Mouth of the Columbia STRUGGLE FOR THE WI] -Sentiment of Adams in 1818-General Jes- Growth Around th, up's Recommendations, 1823-Sentiment of ligious and Family]I Adams in 1824-England Demands the Colum- I icans-Order of S( bia-Sentiment, of Clay in 1826-No Line for Permanent Setti, THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE Vij rouble from Indians- South of 49° to be Accepted by the United tality at Vancouver- States-" Joint Occupancy " Becoming Sole ding by Governor Fi- Occupancy for the British-Summary by Pro- -Kelley Admitted at fessor Young. at of Illness-Accepts Bay Vessel to Sand- CHAPTER IV Determines to Settle in THE MACEDONIux CRY...... 129-162 -Others of the Party Religious Sentiments of the American stimates of Kelley and Touched-The Nez Perces Ask for the Bible- rprise of Bonneville- Report of Their Visit to St. Louis Published Alfred Seton-Wagons in the New York (JhratiacnAdvocate-Letter of Pacific Slope-Among Disoway's-Walker's Account-Report of the rates the Hudson's Bay Action of the Synod in the Illinois Pa- Columbia-Compelled triot-George Catlin's Account-Speech of the -Wyeth's Enterprise- Indians on the Eve of Their Return Home- lallant Effort-Bv Sea Response of the Methodist Episcopal Church- v to the Rockyv Moun- and His Comrades-Arrival at Fort nev to the Columbia- Vancouver-Mission Established on French anconver-Loss of the Prairie-Progress of Their Work-Note of e-Projects Considered Lee's Early Life and Education, by H. K. -Delay of Vessel-Fort Hines-Response of the American Board of ri-Loss of Men-Siek- Commissioners for Foreign Missions, Presby- npetition-Projeet Pi- terian and Congregationalist-Samuel Park- er's Exploring Tour-Whitman and Spalding and Their Wives-Missions Established at ...... 113-128 Waiilatpu and at Lapwai-Descriptive Notes of These Missionaries. pital-R4sume of the Recommendations - CHAPTER V rise for Immediate Mili- Mouth of the Columbia STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE...... 163-198 in 1818-General Jes- Growth Around the Primary Centers-e.- s, 1823-Sentiment of ligious and Family Life Introduced by Amer- nd Demands the Colum- icans-Order of Social Evolution-Motives ay in 1826-No Line for Permanent Settlement-Mission School- I I -- - 11 --

viii THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

Sickness-First Ree~nforcement, Dr. White- fI sionaries-J. S. Gril Second Refnforcement, David Lieslie-Cattle I vey Clarke-Alvin Sound Agricultural Company - Ewing Young - Distilling-Sla- cum 's Assistance-McLoughlin 's Account- - G. W. Ebberts, J First Memorial to Congress-A Second Mis- and Thompson-TI sion Recognized by Jason Lee to This Coun- tural Company-Di try-Return East-Interests the Frontiers- First Need of Civi men- Communication to Cushing-Hold Meet- -Baldra, Buxton, ings -The Great Reetnforcement-The "1Lau- Flett-Dr. Elijah sanne "-The Peoria Party-Account of Finds Remarkable]I Shortess-Farnham. ern People in Orel Proceeds to Washir CHAPTER VI Indian Agent -The AmIERcAN ARRIv&Ls, PERIOD OF ENTERPRISE the Plains-Medor AND PLANSFOR IMMIGRATION...... 199-214 and Hastings-Inci' American Ships to the Columbia-The Matthieu-0Other I " Owyhee," "4Sultana"' and "6Convoy"I Crawford's Journal Vessels Arriving in 1837-The Enterprise of CHAPTER VIII the Cushiugs-The " Maryland "-" Chena- mus "-John H. Couch-G. W. Le Breton- STRUGGLE FOR TIE WI] The Wilkes Expedition-The Rocky Moun- Events Leading I tain Men-Enterprise of -The First Effort For Or "Star of Oregon "2-Further Importations of ing Young -Funer, Cattle from California-Dr. - 18, 1841-CommittE Return East-The Immigration of 1842- nor-But Probate J Hastings-Lovejoy-Medorem Crawford-F. -Wilkes's Advice- X. Matthieu-List of Americans in the First turned at Length t Immigration-List of Frenchmen Arriving Visit East-Lecture that Year. Washington-Appo dians'I Affairs West CHAPTER VII -Emigration to Or STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE CONTINUED. . 215-282 em Crawford-Fitzl John Turner's' Party-George Gay, and Dr. Independence Rocl Bailey-Johnson and Geiger-The Ameri- Lovej oy-Wagons cans' Uncle Back East-Independent Mis- haustive Journey [Vol. 3.] AMERICAN STATE ix THE GROWTH OF AN sionaries -J. S. Griffin, Asahel Munger-Ha r- Dr. White- I1einforcement, i vey Clarke-Alvin T. Smith-The Puget David Leslie-Cattle .cement, Sound Agricultural Company-Mountain Men - Distilhing-Sla- hing Young -G. W. Ebberts, J. L. Meek, Wilkins, Doty ce-McLoughlin's Account- Puget Sound Agricul- Mis- and Thompson-The to Congress-A Second Company-Death of Ewing Young- Coun- tural I by Jason Lee to This First Need of Civil Authority-Government ast-Interests the Frontiers- Buxton, Black, Monroe and John Meet- -Baldra, cation to Cushing-Hold Flett-Dr. Elijah White's Return East- " Lau- ,t Reenforcement-The Finds Remarkable Interest Among the West- of Peoria Party-Account ern People in Oregon-Delivers Lectures- haLm. Proceeds to Washington-Is Appointed Sub- Indian Agent-The First Immigration Across the Plains-Medorem Crawford - Lovejoy LB, PERIOD OF ENTERPRISE of the Way-F. X. OR IMMIGRATION ...... 199-214 and Hastings-Incidents Matthieun-Other Independent Canadians- ps to the Columbia-The Crawford's Journal. and " Convoy "- Sultana " I- Lg in 1837-The Enterprise of CHAPTER VIII "-" Chena- i The " Maryland STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE CONTINUED.. 233-272 1. Couch-G. W. Le Breton- to Local Government - Rocky Moun- Events Leading Kpedition-The First Effort For Organization-Death of Ew- erprise of Joseph Gale-The of February Importations of ing Young-Funeral-Meeting in "-Further Appointed-No Gover- Elijah White- 18, 1841-Committee Llifornia-Dr. nor-But Probate Judge-Hines's Statement The Immigration of 1842- Property Re- Crawford-F. -Wilkes's Advice-Young's ijoy-Medorem turned at Length to His Son-Dr. White's of Americans in the First ,ist East-Lectures in the Old West-Visits gist of Frenchmen Arriving Visit Washington-Appointed " Sub-Agent of In- dians ' Affairs West of the Rocky Mountains " -Emigration to Oregon Stimulated-Medor- X. Matthieu- WILLAMETTE CONTED.. 215-232 em Crawford-Fitzpatrick-F. - Hastings and and Dr. Independence Rock-Sioux Party-George Gay Left at -Ex- and Geiger-The Ameri- Lovejoy-Wagons n Journey Westward-Whitman's- ack East-Independent Mis- haustive (Vol. 3.] x THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST Crawford's Estimate of the Services of Mis- Hudson's Bay Coi sionaries-List of Principal Men in Oregon ticipate-Ordinance at Close of 1842. Laws-Summary f CHAPTER IX Scott. STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE;CONTINUED. .273-814 CHAPTER X Agitation For a Local Government Pro- STRUGGLE FOR THE CC ceeds-Three " Parties "- Bay Hudson's Whitman-Farnhan Company - Mission-" The People "- Me- dustry - Disaffecti4 morials to Congress-Puget Sound Basin American Board- Claimed as Part of Oregon-Unsettled Con- the Board Received dition of Land Titles-Apprehensions as to Waiilatpu - Whitm Indians - Illustration of Elwood Evans- Letter of 1842-Me Summary of the Initial Effort by Same Au- thor-American Ideas-How Gain the Con- Whitman Determih Journey East-Se( sent of the British Subjects-Advice of Traveling Compani Wilkes' 'People-Discussions at Oregon City -" Independent Government " Voted DowL the Journey-Reael -Action Among the Settlers-Wild Animals tion to Secretary of cultural Posts Fro] -Meeting at -" Wolf Meet- -Meets Greeley at ing " at House of -James O'Neil-Speech and Motion of W. H. Gray- -On the Return J -Resolution For a Local Government Car- lections-Immigrat ried-Preparatory Meetings Held-Meeting Large Number St of the Committee of Twelve-General Meet- tures-J. W. Nesr ing Appointed to be Held May 2d-Services Burnett's Speech- of Le Breton-Course of the Opposition-Ad- plegate-Other Pio dress of the Canadians-Griffin-Meek-Mat- Pilot to Fort Hall- thieu -- Lucier - Champoeg-American Tac- Point-Whitman, I tics-Meek Carries the Day For " The Re- cus, Pilot Through port and Organization "-Canadians With- rival of Immigrant draw-Government Organized-Officers and -Indians Who Si Legislative Committee Appointed-General These Bostons "- Meeting July 5th-Report of Legislative Com- McLoughlin-Brea mittee Adopted-Preamble to Code of Laws- grants. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE xi nate of the Services of Mis- Hudson's Bay Company Declines to Par- df Principal Men in Oregon ticipate-Ordinance of 1787 Adopted-Land Laws-Summary from Address of H. W. Scott. VILLAMETTECONTINUED. . 273-314 CHAPTER X a Local Government Pro- STRUGGLE FOB THIE COLUBi Parties "- Hudson's Bay ...... 315-42 Whitman-Farnham's Mention ion-" The People "-Me- of His In- ,ress-Puget Sound Basin dustry-Disaffections-Resolution of the of Oregon-Unsettled Con- American Board-Reconciliation-Letter of ritles-Apprehensions as to the Board Received and a Meeting Called at ation of Elwood Evans- Waiilatpu - Whitman's Proposition - Eells' Initial Effort by Same Au- Letter of 1842-MeLoughlin's Observation- Ideas-How Gain the Con- Whitman Determines Upon an Immediate itish Subjects-Advice of Journey East-Secures A. L. Lovejoy as Discussions at Oregon City Traveling Companion-Lovejoy's Account of Government " Voted Down the Journey-Reaches Washington-Proposi- the Settlers-Wild Animals tion to Secretary of War For a Line of Agri- gon Institute-" Wolf Meet- cultural Posts From the to Oregon of Joseph Gervais-James -Meets Greeley at New York-Visits Boston nd Motion of W. H. Gray- -On the Return Journey-Nesmith's Recol- a Local Government Car- lections-immigration of 1843-Causes of the F Meetings Held-Meeting Large Number Starting-Dr. White's Lee- of Twelve-General Meet- tures-J. W. Nesmith-Peter H. Burnett- be Held May 2d-Services Burnett's Speech-Organization-Jesse Ap- urse of the Opposition-Ad- plegate-Other Pioneers of '43-John Gantt, dians-Griffin-Meek-Mat- I Pilot to Fort Hall-Wagons Not Left at This Champoeg-American Tac- i Point-Whitman, Pilot to -Stic- Bs the Day For " The Re- cus, Pilot Through the Blue Mountains-Ar- zation "-Canadians With- I rival of Immigrants in the Willamette Valley it Organized-Officers and -Indians Who Said "It is Good to Kill nittee Appointed-General These Bostons "-Cuttingly Rebuked by Dr. -Report of Legislative Com- McLoughlin-Bread Enough For the Imini- ?reamble to Code of Laws- grants. __NM T__

xni THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

CHAPTER XI -Land Laws-Me PROGRESS OF PUBLIC OPINION AND NEGOTIA- ler's Contest-Office TIONs ...... 343-370 Cockstock-Le Bre Conditions Antedating Emigration to Ore- Wound-" Oregon gon-R6sume-Westward Drift of American 1844-Message of tl Population-Petitions Sent in 1839 to Con- Prohibitory Law- gress For Occupation of Oregon-Toppen's Provisional Govern] Petition-Petition Presented by Allen of Ohio ernor Provided-G -Petition Presented by Young of Kentucky First Governor--Cl -Linn's Bill-Noticed by Baltimore Ameri- McLoughlin Induce can-American Concessions-British Claims tion "-Complete S -Situation Upon Tyler's Assumption of Of- to Congress-Mcel, fice-Daniel Webster as Premier-A Stormy Protection of a Bril Horizon -Ashburton's Mission -Northeast Park and Lientenan Boundary-Question Settled August 9, 1842, este " Arrives--Esi by Ashburton Treaty-Question of Northwest son by John Minto. Boundary Immediately Taken up. Webster Contemplates a Sacrifice of the Coast North of CHAPTER XIII the -Adams' Diary-The Plan Failed to Mature-Sentiment in Eng- PROGRESS OF IMMIGRAT land-EdinburghReview-J. C. Fremont's Ex- Stimulated by Publ Benton-Prediction ploration-Atchison's Bill-Semple - Owens -Cincinnati Convention - Indiana Resolu- Gilliam-Tharp-C tions Presented by Hannegan-War Spirit- -Alanson Hinmai " and Oregon " Made the Democratic Morrison-John M Campaign Cry of the Presidential Election of -Willard H. Rees 1844 - Negotiations Renewed - Pakenham- -Henry Williamso Upshur - Calhoun - England Unyielding- Parrish-Others-X British Officers for Oregon-Father De Smet's the Washington S5 Journal. Horace Holden-li phen Staats-James CHAPTER XII -The Barlow Roa THE ACTS OF THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT. 371-394 -Immigration of I Wise and Conciliatory-Laws in Two Sec- Beggs-The Soutl tions-Bill of Rights and Ordinance of 1787 of 1847-Account o0 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 'iii

-Land Laws-McLoughlin's Claim-Wal- OPINION AND NEGOTIA- ler's Contest-Officers ...... for 1843-Affray with 343-370 Cockstock-Le Breton [ating Emigration to Ore- Dying as Result of Wound-" Oregon Rangers "- Officers of estward Drift of American 1844-Message ions of the Executive Committee- Sent in 1839 to Con- Prohibitory Law-Negro ttion Law-Validity of of Oregon-Toppen's Provisional Government Presented Questioned-A Gov- by Allen of Ohio ernor Provided-George ted by Young of Kentucky Abernethy Elected First Governor--Change in Form )ticed by Baltimore Ameri- of Oath- McLoughlin Induced to Join the " Organiza- ncessions-British Claims tion "-Complete Success at Last-Memorial Tyler's Assumption of Of- to Congress-McLoughlin's ter as Premier-A Application for Stormy Protection of a British War Vessel-Captain ton's Mission - Northeast Park and Peel-War Ship " on Settled August 9, 1842, Mod- este " Arrives-Estimate of Henry William- ty-Question of Northwest son by John Minto. ately Taken up. Webster ,rifice of the Coast North of ver-Adams' Diary-The CHAPTER XIII lature-Sentiment in Eng- PROGRESS OF IMMIGRATION ...... 395-418 emiew-J. C. Fremont's Ex- Stimulated by Public Discussion-Thomas H. n's Bill-Semple - Owens Benton-Prediction-Immigration of 1844- mention - Indiana Resolu- Gilliam-Tharp- Case-Shaw-At Fort Hall I Hannegan-War Spirit- -Alanson Hinman-Joseph Watt-R. W. 3n"' Made the Democratic Morrison-John Minto-James W. Marshall he Presidential Election of -Willard H. Rees-Captain Chas. Bennett Is Renewed - Pakenham- -Henry Williamson--E. E. - England Unyielding- Parrish-Others-Michael T. Simmons and Oregon-Father De Smet's the Washington Settlement-George Bush- Horace Holden-Immigration of 1845-Ste- phen Staats-James McMillan-S. K. Barlow -The -Names of the Company VISIONAL GOVERNMENT. 371-394 -Immigration of 1846-Numbers-Governor tory-Laws in Two See- Beggs-The Southern Route-Immigration Lts and Ordinance of 1787 of 1847-Account of Ralph C. Geer-Estimate

I xiv THE GROWTH OF

of Pioneers by Thomas Condon-A Process of Selection-Estimate by F. G. Young-Esti- ILLUS mate by Hon. Elwood Evans. Joseph L. Meek...... CHAPTER XIV Nathaniel J. Wyeth...... CATHOLIC MISSIONS ...... 419-426 Thomas Hart Benton...... Rev. H. H. Spalding...... Missionary Work Begun in the Late Thir- Hal-Hal-Tlos-Sot, the Lawyer. ties-Many Indian Converts Among the Cow- Home of Dr. Marcus Whitm litz-Yakimas-Flatheads-And a Portion of Lewis Field Linn...... the Nez Perces and Cayuses-Leading Men Rev. ...... Who Professed the Catholic Faith-Father Captain John H. Couch.. Blanchet-1)e Smet-Bolduc-Demers - Re- View of Astoria About 1840. enforcement by Sea-" The Indefatigable "- The Oregon Institute...... Arrival at the Columbia-J. B. A. Brouillet- F. X. Matthieu ...... Walla Walla Mission Established. in 1845..... William H. Gray...... ...... CHAPTER XV Dr. W. H. Willson...... CONSUMMAnON...... 427-442 Rev. ...... Calhoun Contends for Fifty-four Forty- A. Lawrence Lovejoy...... James W. Nesmith...... Buchanan Offers Forty-nine - Pakenham's Rejoinder-Buchanan Withdraws His Concili- Fort George in 1845...... Oregon City in 1845...... atory Offer-Position of President Polk-Po- General John C. Fremont.... sition of the Southern Members-Position of Home of Dr. John McLoughlii Benton-A Moderate Party in England-Cal- First Protestant Church Build houn and Colquitt Induce a British Proposal General ...... on the Line of Forty-nine-Polk Embarrassed Samuel R. Thurston...... -Seeks Counsel and Assistance of Benton- Bishop A. M. A. Blanchet.... Offer Made-Accepted by the Senate-Treaty Archbishop Francis N. Blanch Concluded and the Boundary Settled-The Bishop ...... Rev. J. B. A. Brouillet...... News in Oregon-Letter of - Rev. Pierre J. De Smet..... Officers of Provisional Government of 1846 Map of the Oregon County in and 1847-An Extempore Delegate to Con- gress-A Pilot on the Columbia Bar-Begin- ning of Portland-Post Office Service. THE GROWTH OF iomas Condon-A Process nate by F. G. Young-Esti- ILLUSTRATIONS. ood Evans. Joseph L. Meek ...... Facing page 66 Nathaniel J. Wyeth ...... Facing page 100 ...... 419-426 Thomas Hart Benton ...... Facing page 126 Rev. H. H. Spalding ...... Facing page 144 Begun in the Late Thir- Hal-Hal-Tlos-Sot, the Lawyer ...... Facing page 154 Converts Among the Cow- Home of Dr. ...... Facing page 172 atheads-And a Portion of Lewis Field Linn ...... Facing page 182 id Cayuses-Leading Men Rev. Gustavus Hines ...... Facing page 192 le Catholic Faith-Father Captain John H. Couch ...... Facing page 204 qt-Bolduc-Demers - Re- View of Astoria About 1840 ...... Facing page 228 1-" The Indefatigable "- The Oregon Institute ...... Facing page 238 Lmbia-J. B. A. Brouillet- F. X. Matthieu ...... Facing page 246 Fort Vancouver in 1845 ...... Facing page 266 on Established. William H. Gray ...... Facing page 276 George Abernethy ...... Facing page 286 Dr. W. H. Willson ...... Facing page 302 ...... 427-442 Rev. Cashing Eells ...... Facing page 312 for Fifty-four Forty- A. Lawrence Lovejoy ...... Facing page 324 James W. Nesmith ...... Facing page 332 Forty-nine - Pakenham's Fort George in 1845 ...... Facing page 340 Lan Withdraws His Concili- Oregon City in 1845 ...... Facing page 350 ion of President Polk-Po- General John C. Fremont ...... Facing page 360 ern Members-Position of Home of Dr. John McLoughlin ...... Facing page 376 ,te Party in England-Cal- First Protestant Church Building ...... Facing page 388 Induce a British Proposal General Joel Palmer ...... Facing page 398 y-nine-Polk Embarrassed Samuel R. Thurston ...... Facing page 404 ad Assistance of Benton- Bishop A. M. A. Blanchet ...... Facing page 422 ited by the Senate-Treaty Archbishop Francis N. Blanchet ...... Facing page 422 a Boundary Settled-The Bishop Modeste Demers ...... Facing page 422 Rev. J. B. A. Brouillet ...... Facing page 422 setter of James Douglas- Rev. Pierre J. De Smet ...... Facing page 422 onal Government of 1846 Map of the Oregon County in 1846 ...... Facing page 436 ,empore Delegate to Con- the Columbia Bar-Begin- Post Office Service. i:

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LI f CHAPTER I

THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

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THE scene enterpri nopoly, ; energeti confron fore worth while, as v with new influences a] some of the steps prev only refresh the mem into a new perspecti' more correctly the w( dividual Americans-i all animated by one s straight forward; wh went; and they turne4 At the end of the p had clearly outclasse seemed to himself to along with British no territory of Oregon. velopment of the fur to have outclassed all and wandering AmerI the Pacific Coast frc Aleutian Islands. Gr. Flawaiians had been McLoughlin; and thE pany in London were be reckoned by the mr pressed with the vali THHE scene of the history now shifts from enterprises by sea. The British mo- nopoly, holding Oregon for the most energetic empire of the world, is now confronted by a people. It is there- fore worth while, as we take a new center, and deal with new influences and characters, to recall briefly some of the steps previously narrated. This will not only refresh the memory, but will throw the scene into a new perspective and enable us to estimate more correctly the work performed by the first in- dividual Americans-who, diverse as they were, were all animated by one spirit. " They went every one straight forward; whither the spirit was to go, they went; and they turned not when they went." At the end of the period of discovery the British had clearly outclassed all others, and Vancouver seemed to himself to have fixed British possession, along with British nomenclature, upon the immense territory of Oregon. At the end of the period of de- velopment of the the British again seemed to have outclassed all others, and only an occasional and wandering American ship visited the shores of the Pacific Coast from Bay to the Aleutian Islands. Gradually Oregon, Alaska and the Hawaiians had been gathered to the long arms of McLoughlin; and the stockholders of the fur com- pany in London were annually receiving a wealth to be reckoned by the millions, and were so much im- pressed with the value of this trade that they had

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44 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST no other expectation than to make it permanent. The such a settlement of t brilliant scheme of Astor had fallen solidly to their seemed a good stroke interest. The route from over the Rockies from all pretensions to 1 to the Columbia flanked all the movements of the As has already been i Americans; and the route from the Columbia to Lon- later unfoldings of ou: don completed a circumnavigation of the globe-all was not simply the na water except a few portages-that will shed never- lumbia River and the E fading luster upon the enterprise of the English sion, or paramountcy, o nation. McLoughlin, moreover, was planting with- simply of the Pacific C out opposition a colony of British in the heart of cific Ocean. The centi what was then considered the best, and perhaps the River. With this, as t] only, inhabitable part of Oregon. Whatever his in- went all. The navigatio tention, it was the core of a British colony. A settle- ready determined never ment was thus already begun in the British interest they could control sout in the very territory which the Americans might occupation, or by a sem some time claim, whose influence would extend, as add; as by the product Dr. McLoughlin said, to . It was ready were absorbing ai in truth well calculated to become a " buffer State," [ of all the Russian po; with British ideas and tendencies, shielding the fur coast; and of the San( t territory north of the Columbia from encroachment i! soon become Briticized t by Americans, pre-occupying for the British the I trade. country south of the Columbia, and thus closing the But at this point they gap to the Spanish possessions. Some such idea, life of a people. The fli more or less clear, both to McLoughlin, and to Simp- dividuals. The record son in Canada, and Pelly in London, must have been ments overland is of fail entertained when this settlement was allowed to be refer to these first pion formed. To McLoughlin the humanitarian idea of venturers." This was r providing for a happy age for his old servants, and reproach of unstable chi a civilized environment for their children, was un- was not in all cases me doubtedly uppermost; while to Simpson and Pelly those Americans who at

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I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 45 n to make it permanent. The such a settlement of their old servants must have or had fallen solidly to their seemed a good stroke to finally shut out America mn Canada over the Rockies from all pretensions to territory on the Pacific Coast. :d all the movements of the As has already been suggested, and as seen in the 1te from the Columbia to Lon- later unfoldings of our history, the prize in view inavigation of the globe-all was not simply the narrow strip between the Co- tages-that will shed never- lumbia River and the Spanish line; it was posses- ] enterprise of the English sion, or paramountcy, of the Pacific Coast; and not ioreover, was planting with- simply of the Pacific Coast, indeed, but of the Pa- y of British in the heart of cific Ocean. The central point was the Columbia 'ed the best, and perhaps the River. With this, as the later development shows, if Oregon. Whatever his in- went all. The navigation of this river the British al- A a British colony. A settle- ready determined never to yield; and so much as begun in the British interest they could control southward, by actual territorial which the Americans might occupation, or by a semi-British colony, they would e influence would extend, as add; as by the productions of this colony they al- ) San Francisco Bay. It was ready were absorbing and controlling the commerce to become a " buffer State," of all the Russian possessions on the American tendencies, shielding the fur coast; and of the Sandwich Islands, which would 'olumbia from encroachment soon become Briticized through the influence of their upying for the British the trade. hlumbia, and thus closing the But at this point they began to meet the multiple )ssessions. Some such idea. life of a people. The first encounters were with in- to McLoughlin, and to Simp- dividuals. The record of the first American move- [y in London, must have been ments overland is of failure. The British habitually settlement was allowed to be refer to these first pioneers of enterprise as " ad- [in the humanitarian idea of venturers." This was not far wrong; although the age for his old servants, and reproach of unstable character implied in the term L for their children, was un- was not in all cases merited. It was particularly while to Simpson and Pelly those Americans who attempted to break over the 46 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN E chain of the Rocky Mountains, and to enjoy the rich the ever watchful ai trapping to be found on the Snake River; or who were always enemies with still bolder intent pushed on to the Columbia, rival trappers, who c and attempted competition with the British monop- other, and among wh oly on the Pacific, that were given this term of op- pete for the first tra probrium, and were regarded as intruders; though dians and free trapp, under treaty stipulations they had the same right in However, the success all the territory as the British. perfect human animE The movement of the American people toward the senses developed to t] Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean began with sleepless vigilance and the fur companies operating from St. Louis, and mak- also have cool judgme ing annual excursions up the Missouri, or the Platte, soning faculties, and to a rendezvous in the RockyMountains, and returning never endangered his in the autumn. Trappers were scattered out in every others, except as the direction, who sought particularly the heads of the who will perhaps live rivers, where the beaver had built their villages. Mountain trapper, wah These industrious and intelligent animals were their L. Meek, of another ty partners, as well as prey. They sought the most se- consequential charactE cluded spots; and the trapper, with traps, rifle and intellect, and developer butcher knife, and perhaps a frying pan, clambered broad ideas. Neverth, over the ridges, and down into the canyons, often of the trappers were o alone, tending his traps day after day, and approxi- life cheap, whether of mating ever, more and more, in feeling and appear- dicated in the large ance to the savage country about him. Courage, love tered the service peri of liberty, hardihood, unimpaired faculties of sight, three-fifths, it is said, i hearing, muscle and nerve were the prerequisites. As the movement 4 Failure at anyone of these points would speedily Mountains was the see lead to a termination of career. Aside from the pressions made upon I fatigues and hardships of the march, there were the being the discoveries o wild animals, some of which were formidable foes; worth while noticing hE I

47 AMERICAN STATE THE GROWTH OF AN AM RICAN STATE 47 ever watchful Indians, certain tribes of whom stains, and to enjoy the rich the and the stern competition of a the Snake River; or who were always enemies; misled and deceived each pushed on to the Columbia, rival trappers, who often it was a principle to com- ion with the British monop- other, and among whom of the season with the In- were given this term of op- pete for the first trade at the various rendezvous. ,arded as intruders; though dians and free trappers trapper was not the mere s they had the same right in However, the successful man who had all the 3ritish. perfect human animal, or a full, and was endowed with American people toward the senses developed to the dare-devil boldness. He must he Pacific Ocean began with sleepless vigilance and sagacity born of quick rea- ting from St. Louis, and mak- also have cool judgment, at least that humanity that p the Missouri, or the Platte, soning faculties, and that of )cky Mountains, and returning never endangered his own life, or sacrificed last extremity. , rs were scattered out in every others, except as the the best type of the Rocky particularly the heads of the who will perhaps live as J. 7er had built their villages. Mountain trapper, was a cool and reflective man. a more blustering and intelligent animals were their L. Meek, of another type, and with ,y. They sought the most se- consequential character, was highly endowed and developed in later life a large fund of brapper, with traps, rifle and intellect, laps a frying pan, clambered broad ideas. Nevertheless, that a large proportion town into the canyons, often of the trappers were of the reckless order, who held is in- s day after day, and approxi- life cheap, whether of their own or of others, who en- more, in feeling and appear- dicated in the large proportion of those returned; ,try about him. Courage, love tered the service perishing before they unimpaired faculties of sight, three-fifths, it is said, never came back. ierve were the prerequisites. As the movement of trappers into the Rocky these points would speedily Mountains was the second of those remarkable im- of career. Aside from the pressions made upon the American mind, the first of the march, there were the being the discoveries on the Northwest Coast, it is which were formidable foes; worth while noticing here the kind of character that

M.- 48 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST the Rocky Mountain trapping life developed. By sprung up; the ' Mou Washington Irving, who is not a profound thinker, trappers that scale the but a good observer, a striking contrast is noticed pursue their hazardous between the American trapper, who broke the way cesses. They move fr to far-off Oregon, and the French trapper, who, from back. The equestrian < Canada, had already possessed the north and held they are engaged, the the routes over the Rockies and Selkirks to the Co- they traverse, vast pla lumbia and . This description has the exhilarating atmosphel added historical value of having been written in 1843, them physically and m( from data gathered much earlier, and when Ameri- than the fur traders anC can fortunes seemed at so low an ebb that this author, self-vaunting ' men of 1 who commanded the ear of both America and Eu- cordingly, hardy, lithe, rope, charged our government with " unfortunate gant in word and tho supineness," and said that " By that supineness the hardship; daring of d sovereignty in the country [that of the whole Co- ent, and thoughtless of lumbia Valley] has been virtually lost to the United ' A difference is to States." This is his rather doleful theme in start- these mountain hunter ing out to record in detail the still further failure of gions along the waters Captain Bonneville. He gives a spirited description generally French creole of the trappers, apparently not yet perceiving that and log huts, well shelt the redemption of Oregon, for which he eagerly the seasons. They are longed, was not to be effected by governmental activ- plies from the settlemei ity, but largely by just that American character ly free from danger, a which, for almost one generation, was -being slowly tudes of the upper wilk developed on the plains and in the Rocky Mountains. they are less hardy, sel It was not by " a small military force " to reinstate ed than the mountaine Astor at Astoria, but by an evolution of a great fron- comes among them on h tier population, and, in fact, of the whole American ments, he is like a ga people, that the result was to be attained. roosters of the poultry; He says:-" A totally different class has now "There is perhaps n [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 49

* trapping life developed. By sprung up; the ' Mountaineers '; the traders and who is not a profound thinker, trappers that scale the vast mountain chains, and a striking contrast is noticed pursue their hazardous vocations amid their wild re- n trapper, who broke the way cesses. They move from place to place on horse- I the French trapper, who, from back. The equestrian exercises, therefore, in which possessed the north and held they are engaged, the nature of the country which lockies and Selkirks to the Co- they traverse, vast plains and mountains, pure and Ionia. This description has the exhilarating atmospheric qualities, seem to make of having been written in 1843, them physically and mentally a more mercurial race nuch earlier, and when Ameri- than the fur traders and trappers of former days, the Lt so low an ebb that this author, self-vaunting ' men of the north. ' We find them ac- ear of both America and Eu- cordingly, hardy, lithe, vigorous and active; extrava- overnment with " unfortunate gant in word and thought and deed; heedless of I that " By that supineness the hardship; daring of danger; prodigal of the pres- ountry [that of the whole Co- ent, and thoughtless of the future. een virtually lost to the United *' A difference is to be perceived even between rather doleful theme in start- these mountain hunters and those of the lower re- letail the still further failure of gions along the waters of the Missouri. The latter, He gives a spirited description generally French creoles, live comfortably in cabins arently not yet perceiving that and log huts, well sheltered from the inclemencies of )regon, for which he eagerly the seasons. They are within reach of frequent sup- effected by governmental activ- plies from the settlements; their life is comparative- just that American character ly free from danger, and from most of the vicissi- e generation, was being slowly tudes of the upper wilderness. The consequence is, ns and in the Rocky Mountains. they are less hardy, self-dependent and game-spirit- all military force " to reinstate ed than the mountaineer. If the latter by chance by an evolution of a great fron- comes among them on his way to and from the settle- in fact, of the whole American ments, he is like a game-cock among the common t was to be attained. roosters of the poultry yard. . itally different class has now "There is perhaps no class of men on the face of [Vol. 3] 50 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST the earth, says Captain Bonneville, who led a life of ness of spirit., In fa( more continued exertion, peril, excitement, and who as a stark tramper of t are more enamoured of their occupations, than the The above estimate, free trappers of the West. No toil, no danger, no pri- justice to the French, vation, can turn the trapper from his pursuit. His and on horseback sho passionate excitement at times resembles a mania. as attributed to the ... The French trapper is represented as a new class of men deve] lighter, softer, more self-indulgent kind of a man. and on the plains bet- He must have his Indian wife, his lodge, and his who led the van of the petty conveniences. He is gay and thoughtless, Pacific. Perhaps nothi takes little heed of landmarks, depends upon his is more characteristic t leaders and companions to think for the common less of the future; pro weal, and, if left to himself, is easily perplexed and was the charm of the li lost. present existence unc " The American trapper stands by himself, and limited by the future. is peerless for the service of the wilderness. Drop the earth again; the him in the midst of a prairie, or the heart of a moun- more a savage, indulgi tain, and he is never at a loss. He notices every often quaffing the cup ( landmark; can retrace his route through the most one view a degeneratic monotonous plains, or the most perplexed labyrinths is a period of dissolu of the mountains; no danger or difficulty can appal right and wrong are him, and he scorns to complain under any privations. ventional right is forg In equipping the two kinds of trappers, the creole new and grander prop and Canadian are apt to prefer the light fusee; the morphosis, as has oft American always grasps his rifle; he despises what in Anglo-Saxon comm he calls ' a shot gun.' We give these estimates on fined to a small part of the authority of a trader of long experience, and a lation; yet the influer foreigner by birth. ' I consider one American,' said Mountains westward t he, ' equal to three Canadians in point of sagacity, ward to the Atlantic. aptness at resources, self-dependence, and fearless- with the free trappers THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 51 tain Bonneville, who led a life of ness of spirit., In fact no one can cope with him rtion, peril, excitement, and who as a stark tramper of the wilderness. " d of their occupations, than the The above estimate, while not probably doing full West. No toil, no danger, no pri- justice to the French, many of whom on the plains trapper from his pursuit. His and on horseback showed the very same qualities ,nt at times resembles a mania. as attributed to the Americans, well indicates the 3h trapper is represented as a new class of men developed in the Rocky Mountains e self-indulgent kind of a man. and on the plains between the years 1807 and 1842, Indian wife, his lodge, and his who led the van of the American people toward the He is gay and thoughtless, Pacific. Perhaps nothing in all the above description landmarks, depends upon his is more characteristic than that they were " thought- aions to think for the common less of the future; prodigal of the present." This himself, is easily perplexed and was the charm of the life to them. It was an intense present existence unconfined by the past, and un- trapper stands by himself, and limited by the future. It was the Titan touching 4ervice of the wilderness. Drop the earth again; the civilized man becoming once %prairie, or the heart of a moun- more a savage, indulging his nature to its limit, and er at a loss. He notices everv often quaffing the cup of life at a draught. It was in ,ace his route through the most one view a degeneration, but before every evolution or the most perplexed labyrinths is a period of dissolution; traditions are broken; io danger or difficulty can appal right and wrong are disregarded, or at least con- o complain under any privations. ventional right is forgotten. Life emerges again in 7o kinds of trappers, the creole new and grander proportions. This period of meta- pt to prefer the light fusee; the morphosis, as has often and happily been the case *asps his rifle; he despises what in Anglo-Saxon communities, was in America con- a.' We give these estimates on fined to a small part of the country, and of the popu- ,rader of long experience, and a lation; yet the influence extended from the Rocky ' I consider one American,' said Mountains westward to the Pacific, and reacted east- Canadians in point of sagacity, ward to the Atlantic. Every American grew greater g, self-dependence, and fearless- with the free trappers that scoured the Rocky Moun- 52 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

tains, and with the expanding nation that learned sion in the mountains; from the men of the west the possibilities that came trapper as indicating a with bodily freedom. house up over winter; Without delaying too long upon these character- the suggestion that a b istics, the significance of which will appear still fur- great enough to be the ther as the history progresses, a brief account will the gods of Greece, wa, now be given of the operations of the American trap- a hole for hiA. pers and traders from St. Louis through the Rocky The Americans opera Mountain country. Some, indeed, pressed to the Pa- during this period of as cific Ocean; but the main round was between the can Fur Company, still upper Missouri and Santa F6. of , There were three or four main rendezvous; that by Ramsay Crooks, w] on Green River being the principal one; while previous volume; the Brown's Hole, Pierre's Hole, Ogden's Hole and formed under Williar Jackson's Hole, were some of the others. These others, which was disbh two names, " Rendezvous " and " Hole," are citated some years late highly indicative of the trapper's conceptions. The Company, under Wm. former indicates the French element in the thought General " Ashley; and life. It was simply the assembling place, agreed Captain Bonneville. upon and made known the year beforehand, and to Following is a brief which the trappers moved with their winter's catch, these companies, being to meet the pack, or wagon trains, from St. Louis, as showing the grand i hurrying as soon as weather permitted to forestall westward. one another; and to which Indians of all tribes re- April 25, 1807, Ezeki sorted. Here was the trading, carousing, gambling, tioned, with twenty Mi the races and fights, dead bodies sometimes being so the Mandan country, in common over the games that upon them the cards of Lewis and Clark thL were laid down. The word " Hole " indicates the turn their chief, Big W pure Saxon; being somewhat humorous, and mean- he would visit Washini ing a hollow, or possibly a vast and grand depres- tion of President Jeffe THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 53 expanding nation that learned sion in the mountains; but a term attractive to the e west the possibilities that came trapper as indicating a snug retreat, where he might 1. house up over winter; and pleasing him also with too long upon these character- the suggestion that a break in the mountain ranges, ce of which will appear still fur- great enough to be the rotunda for Jupiter and all progresses, a brief account will the gods of Greece, was just about the right size for operations of the American trap- a hole for him. om St. Louis through the Rocky The Americans operating in the Rocky Mountains Some, indeed, pressed to the Pa- during this period of adventure were the old Ameri- Le main round was between the can Fur Company, still nominally under the control Santa Fe. of John Jacob Astor, of New York, but conducted or four main rendezvous; that by Ramsay Crooks, who has been mentioned in the eing the principal one; while previous volume; the old Missouri Fur Company, rre's Hole, Ogden's Hole and formed under , Manuel Lisa and xre some of the others. These others, which was disbanded in 1812, but was resus- idezvous " and " Hole," are citated some years later; the Rocky Mountain Fur the trapper's conceptions. The Company, under Wm. H. Ashley, called by Irving ] French element in the thought "General " Ashley; and various individuals, as Lply the assembling place, agreed Captain Bonneville. wn the year beforehand, and to Following is a brief r6sum6 of the operations of moved with their winter's catch, these companies, being necessarily mentioned here r wagon trains, from St. Louis, as showing the grand drift of the American people 3 weather permitted to forestall westward. which Indians of all tribes re- April 25, 1807, Ezekiel Williams, as already men- ae trading, carousing, gambling, tioned, with twenty Missourians, left St. Louis for dead bodies sometimes being so the Mandan country, in compliance with the promise ames that upon them the cards of Lewis and Clark that the government would re- he word " " Hole indicates the turn their chief, Big White, and his wife and son, if somewhat humorous, and mean- he would visit Washington, according to the invita- ;sibly a vast and grand depres- tion of President Jefferson. The promise was car-

Iommo 54 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. ried out, and the chief escorted home in safety. The In 1810 appeared Hi party, although under government commission, was pany, at St. Louis, and also equipped for trapping; one of Jefferson's pur- made the overland trip poses in the Lewis and Clark expedition being to by sea which reached A establish friendly relations with the distant Indian consumed the entire ye: tribes and to open up trade. In this party was Car- ruary of 1812, reached son, mentioned elsewhere; and Rose, the Mississippi were Louis Labonte, J River pirate, who left the company to live with the others, who became ea Crows, and who is mentioned by Hunt. Williams's picked up a number ol party met with all but annihilation from the Indians; Alexander Carson, Rai five were killed by Blackfeet on the Yellowstone; and others joining the comr on the Arkansas only three survived the attack of In 1821, according to the Comanches. Of these Williams himself, coming without according thi to a river supposed to be the Rio Grande, followed Samuel Ruddock was 4 down, coming out at last at Cooper's Fort on the " the middle of May, Missouri; the two others, Work and Spencer, fol- forks, and turning sou lowed the stream upward, reached the , 8th of June. Crossing which they descended, met a Santa Fe party going took a N. W. directic to Los Angeles, which they accompanied, and re- river Chamas, and ove turned the next year; but not until fifteen years did Trinidad; and then they reach home again. across the upper bran In 1808 the Missouri Fur Company was organized California, reached La] at St. Louis, with Manuel Lisa, Pierre Chouteau, Sr., Multnomah of Lewis William Clark, Sylvester Labadie, Pierre Menard, River Timpanagos, th and Auguste P. Chouteau, with capital of $40,000. Columbia August 1st, Alexander Henry was sent that year to establish a Missouri in 79 days. post at the forks of the Missouri, but was driven given as an interesth away by the Blackfeet, and crossing the range, erect- based on conjecture. I ed in 1809, a post on the Henry Fork of the Snake nomah, or . * A map of the internal provinces c Pike," practicaUy identifies this with ( THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 55 escorted home in safety. The In 1810 appeared Hunt, of the Pacific Fur Com- government commission, was pany, at St. Louis, and organized the company that )ing; one of Jefferson's pur- made the overland trip to co-operate with the party d Clark expedition being to by sea which reached Astoria in March, 1811. Hunt ions with the distant Indian consumed the entire year of 1811, and not until Feb- rade. In this party was Car- ruary of 1812, reached Astoria. Among his party re; and Rose, the Mississippi were Louis Labonte, Joseph Gervais, Dubruil and the company to live with the others, who became early settlers of Oregon. He itioned by Hunt. Williams's picked up a number of trappers in the mountains; nnihilation from the Indians; Alexander Carson, Ramsay Crooks, McClellan and dfeet on the Yellowstone; and others joining the company as it advanced. three survived the attack of In 1821, according to Bancroft, though apparently ,se Williams himself, coming without according this much historical standing, be the Rio Grande, followed Samuel Ruddock was one of a party which set out ist at Cooper's Fort on the " the middle of May, forded the Platte below its qrs, Work and Spencer, fol- forks, and turning southward reached Santa F6 the rard, reached the Colorado, 8th of June. Crossing the Rio del Norte they then met a Santa F6 party going took a N. W. direction on the north bank of the they accompanied, and re- river Chamas, and over the mountains reached Lake but not until fifteen years did Trinidad; and then pursuing the same direction across the upper branches of the Rio Colorado of Fur Company was organized California, reached Lake Timpanagos,* source of the A3Lisa, Pierre Chouteau, Sr., Multnomah of Lewis and Clark. Following the er Labadie, Pierre Menard, River Timpanagos, they reached the mouth of the *au, with capital of $40,000. Columbia August 1st, making the journey from the 4ent that year to establish a Missouri in 79 days." This mythical account is Le Missouri, but was driven given as an interesting illustration of conclusions Lmd crossing the range, erect- based on conjecture. Clark suggested that the Mult- ie Henry Fork of the Snake nomah, or Willamette, watered the whole country

*A map of the internal provinces of New , given with Cones " Expedition of Z. N Pike," practically identifies this with Great Salt Lake.-Cor. Wyeth's Oregon Expedition. 56 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN t as far south as to the Gulf of California. His map reached the Green Ri showed this river as rising somewhere in Nevada or rado, thus reaching Utah. It was natural, or inevitable, that someone this beautiful water would announce the discovery of the lake in which having goods from 3( the river rose; these vague accounts of Great Salt to have originated w Lake offered the suggestion of the lake giving birth William Sublette, to to the Multnomah. Of course a broad, smooth, dian tribes of the R speedy route from that source to the Columbia would enemies of the Amerj accompany any such apochryphal discovery. Rud- most as soon as this s dock was not the only one who held this suggestion; men had crossed the Tarascon, as seen soon, believing that a route by with the more distant the Willamette from the Rocky Mountains to the and Indian allies to p mouth of the Columbia might be found. Bancroft and attack that alwa gives as his authority a House report of May 15, tary enemies of the SI 1826. the trappers, who as In 1822 the most vigorous of all the companies was together with a lai formed. This was the Rocky Mountain Fur Com- hitherto unarmed, or pany, organized under William H. Ashley, of St. into the mountain rel Louis. He is described as a man of note, bearing the Clark by Cameahwail title " General," and a shrewd Yankee long ac- turn invader and rev quainted with the fur trade. His operations were of misfortunes and u very successful. With Henry he built a fort on the paign proved entirel; Yellowstone the same year. In 1823 he formed a returning with 170 party of twenty-eight men and started for the moun- whites but eight wei tains with the intention of crossing the Rockies, but lost but eleven. Thi on the way was attacked by the Aricaras, who killed bearing upon openin fourteen and wounded ten of his men. The next more northern tribes year, 1824, with Green, for whom [Bancroft] Green been brought under I River was named, he ascended the Platte and Sweet- panies to some exter water with a pack train, found the , and Crows and to some es THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 57

3iulf of California. His map reached the Green River, the upper fork of the Colo- ~ing somewhere in Nevada or rado, thus reaching the Pacific drainage. Here on or inevitable, that someone this beautiful water course he made a rendezvous, scovery of the lake in which having goods from 300 pack mules. The idea seems 'ague accounts of Great Salt to have originated with him, or with his lieutenant, ition of the lake giving birth William Sublette, to take the part of the weaker In- f course a broad, smooth, dian tribes of the Rocky Mountains and punish the source to the Columbia would enemies of the Americans. We find at least that al- pochryphal discovery. Rud- most as soon as this strong party of Rocky Mountain 'ne who held this suggestion; men had crossed the summit and had opened traffic 1, believing that a route by with the more distant tribes, a call was made for men he Rocky Mountains to the and Indian allies to proceed to the Blackfoot country might be found. Bancroft and attack that always hostile tribe and the heredi- a House report of May 15, tary enemies of the Shoshones. William Sublette led the trappers, who assembled to the number of 300, rous of all the companies was together with a large force of Shoshones, who Rocky Mountain Fur Com- hitherto unarmed, or poorly armed, had been driven William H. Ashley, of St. into the mountain retreats, as was told to Lewis and as a man of note, bearing the Clark by Cameahwait, and were now only too glad to a shrewd Yankee long ac- turn invader and revenge themselves for long years trade. His operations were of misfortunes and unnumbered injuries. The cam- Henry he built a fort on the paign proved entirely successful, Sublette and party year. In 1823 he formed a returning with 170 Blackfoot scalps, while of the en and started for the moun- whites but eight were wounded and the Shoshones of crossing the Rockies, but lost but eleven. This policy and its success had its I by the Aricaras, who killed bearing upon opening the route to the Pacific. The ten of his men. The next more northern tribes, who were the stronger and had for whom [Bancroft] Green been brought under the influence of the British com- ,ended the Platte and Sweet- panies to some extent, that is, the Sioux, Blackfeet, found the South Pass, and Crowsand to some extent theAricarasandMiniterres,

I I I -_ N I -1 -- - I I

58 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S'

remained enemies; while the Osage, Pawnee, Kansas, The idea of a wag Shoshones and Nez Perces, Flatheads, and for a time presented to Congres the Cayuses, remained friends to the whites. The who had been influene Sioux, it should be said, like the Cayuses, wavered think that the head c between friendship and hostility; but with these ex- from the Salt Lake c ceptions the general policy of the American trappers think I am mistaken, E was to place the balance of power with the weaker is marked by nature. tribes, who without them would speedily fall victims Lake Travers; from to the Blackfoot, Crows or Sioux, and thus managed wagon, but in time all to have ever efficient and trusty allies. It was highly the mouth of the Che, important also that the Indians on the headwaters of you take the Big Horn the rivers, that is, the more distant tribes, should be of the Rocky Mounta friendly and faithful. There the trappers spread out descend either the Le-v singly or in small squads, while on the plains and cross the country; yol through the Sioux country they usually went in com- bia). " panies large enough to resist attack. The effect of A long tour of expl this policy was to make a continuous line of friendly the Missouri Fur C( tribes from St. Louis up the Missouri and Platte and Hempstead and Perkii Sweetwater; over the Green River, and on to the Immuel, of this compa Snake and Columbia. feet, and the leaders a In 1825 Ashley led from the , on the In 1827, Pilcher, for th annual journey, 125 men, crossed the mountains, with forty-five men ar reached Great Salt Lake and discovered Lake Utah. ~i Green River. The ne He built a fort, leaving 100 men. Two years later a along the bases of the six pounder cannon was drawn to this fort, showing head Lake wintered the the practicability of a wagon route. During the next year by way of C three years that Ashley operated in the Rocky Moun- he crossed the mounta tains he took out from the Snake River country the Athabasca, Red Ri $180,000 worth of furs. Green, who had been With Ashley, of the with him, trapped west of Salt Lake until 1829. there was a mulatto, J THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 59 [e the Osage, Pawnee, Kansas, The idea of a wagon road to the Pacific was ,ces, Flatheads, and for a time presented to Congress in 1824 by L. A. Tarascon, * friends to the whites. The who had been influenced by the surmises of Clark to [d, like the Cayuses, wavered think that the head of the Willamette was not far I hostility; but with these ex- from the Salt Lake country. He said: " I do not licy of the American trappers think I am mistaken, and my opinion is that the way gce of power with the weaker is marked by nature. By the St. Peters you reach m would speedily fall victims Lake Travers; from thence, now in carriage or by s or Sioux, and thus managed wagon, but in time all the way by water, you cross to d trusty allies. It was highly the mouth of the Cheyenne; you ascend said river; Indians on the headwaters of you take the Big Horn; you are at the southern gap more distant tribes, should be of the Rocky Mountains in forty-two degrees; you There the trappers spread out descend either the Lewis River or the Multnomah, or Lads, while on the plains and cross the country; you are at the bay (of the Colum- itry they usually went in com- bia). " resist attack. The effect of A long tour of exploration was begun in 1823 by ] a continuous line of friendly the Missouri Fur Company, revived under Lisa, p the Missouri and Platte and Hempstead and Perkins. A party under Jones and Green River, and on to the Immuel, of this company, was attacked by the Black- feet, and the leaders and several others were killed. 'om the Missouri River, on the In 1827, Pilcher, for this company, crosed the Rockies men, crossed the mountains, with forty-five men and 100 horses and wintered on ke and discovered Lake Utah. Green River. The next spring he went northward 100 men. Two years later a along the bases of the mountains, and reaching Flat- ts drawn to this fort, showing head Lake wintered there; renewing his journey the a wagon route. During the next year by way of Colville and the main Columbia operated in the Rocky Moun- he crossed the mountains eastward and returned by im the Snake River country the Athabasca, Red River, and the Missouri. irs. Green, who had been With Ashley, of the Rocky Mountain Company, *st of Salt Lake until 1829. there was a mulatto, James P. Beckwourth, who be-

L. U 1I' pool-

r

60 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. came well known on the plains. His mother was a only escaped: Black, a negro woman, and a slave. While still a child Beck- his assailants, and Turn wourth had seen his playmates killed by a band of who, with a half burn Indians, and having thus early acquired a hatred of four of the Umpqua.* these people, determined to follow them upon the Vancouver, followed s( plains. He became known as an Indian fighter, though considered an i] though he not infrequently made up and lived with great kindness by Ml the Crows as a chief. Thomas McKay was di On retirement of Ashley in 1827-his death occur- furs bearing his mark h ing near Booneville in 1838-the command of the restored to Smith, who company fell to William Sublette, with Jedediah S. orders on London. Smith and David E. Jackson as . McLoughlin has giver The adventures of Smith more nearly relate to affair, and his part in i Oregon, as upon one of his tours he reached the Pa- says (Document publ cific and Fort Vancouver. He began this in 1824, Quarterly, June, 1900): taking a little party of five men and trapping on the 1814 who crossed to the Snake River, thus breaking into the monopoly of the was (at least to our kno British. He passed the winter at the British post with five trappers, who, among the Flatheads. Returning in 1825, he headed son's Bay Company oi another expedition westward, reaching in 1827 San River, came with them I Francisco Bay. The next season he started north- the Flatheads, where t] ward for Oregon, planning no doubt to return to Mis- 1825 he returned to job souri by way of the Snake. He took the route by the brought a large party o ocean beach. All was well and the natives were the Snake country, whi friendly, and by the time he reached the mouth of been ever since. In 1821 the Umpqua a pack worth $20,000 was gathered. constantly five or six hu Here the party was attacked by the Indians, appar- are scarce there are onl ently without provocation, just as they were finishing pushed his trapping par their breakfasts, and while Smith himself was look- Cisco, in California, and, ing for a crossing of the river. Besides Smith three * " A little Englishan " is also menti THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 61

I plains. His mother was a only escaped: Black, a powerful man, who resisted le. While still a child Beck- his assailants, and Turner, also a man of strong build, tymates killed by a band of who, with a half burned pole from the fire, killed s early acquired a hatred of four of the Umpqua.* Smith finally reached Fort d to follow them upon the Vancouver, followed soon by the two others. Al- own as an Indian fighter, though considered an intruder he was received with itly made up and lived with great kindness by McLoughlin; a party under Thomas McKay was dispatched at once, and all the ey in 1827-his death occur- furs bearing his mark found among the Indians were 1838-the command of the restored to Smith, who sold them to McLoughlin for orders on London. i Sublette, with Jedediah S. eson as lieutenants. McLoughlin has given the following account of the mith more nearly relate to affair, and his part in retrieving the property. He his tours he reached the Pa- says (Document published in Oregon Historical er. He began this in 1824, Quarterly, June, 1900): " The first Americans since ive men and trapping on the 1814 who crossed to the west of the Rocky Mountains ing into the monopoly of the was (at least to our knowledge) Mr. Jedediah Smith winter at the British post with five trappers, who, having met some of the Hud- Ieturning in 1825, he headed son's Bay Company on the headwaters of Snake ward, reaching in 1827 San River, came with them to the Hudson's Bay post at lxt season he started north- the Flatheads, where they passed the winter. In ng no doubt to return to Mis- 1825 he returned to join his people, and in 1826 he ce. He took the route by the brought a large party of his countrymen to hunt in well and the natives were the Snake country, where they (Americans) have ne he reached the mouth of been ever since. In 1826, and up to 1828, there were orth $20,000 was gathered. constantly five or six hundred; but now that beaver Lcked by the Indians, appar- are scarce there are only fifty. In 1827 Mr. Smith n, just as they were finishing pushed his trapping parties to the Bay of San Fran- ile Smith himself was look- cisco, in California, and, in endeavouring to make his river. Besides Smith three I " A little Englishman I is also mentioned as a survivor. I~ - _ - _ -, "

62 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S' way here from California in 1828, fifteen of his men camp, and at an India] were murdered by the Umpqua Indians, when he with each white man. only three of his men reached Vancouver, from " At the time the n whence, in the spring of 1829, he proceeded to join crowd, and had just fil his countrymen in the Snake country. " rifle; three Indians jun He gives a more circumstantial account in the docu- off, and seeing all hi ment published in 1880 by the Pioneer Society, say- ground and the India ing: " One night in August, 1828, I was surprised the crowd and rushed by the Indians making a great noise at the gate of the Indians, but fortunate fort, saying they had brought an American. The Umpqua and (went) n( gate was opened and the man was brought in, but was ing the Columbia, wi so affected that he could not speak. After sitting broken down by hunger down some minutes to recover himself, he told us he but a few wild berries was, he thought, the only survivor of a party of he determined to give eighteen men conducted by Jedediah Smith. All the tribe on the coast at C rest, he thought, were murdered. The party left San with great humanity, r Francisco bound to the rendezvous at the Salt Lake. him to the fort, for whi They ascended the , but finding no fall into their power, ai opening to cross the mountains to go east, they bent to them, I rewarded their course to the coast, which they reached at the Smith and his two men mouth of , then came along the beach to made no search for thei the Umpqua, where the Indians stole their axe, and morning [ sent Indiar as it was the only one they had, and which they abso- Willamette chiefs to tel lutely required to make rafts to cross the river, they search of Smith and hi took the chief prisoner, and their axe was returned. them to bring them to t Early the following morning Smith started in a and telling them if an canoe with two men and an Indian, and left orders as would punish them, usual to let no Indians come into camp. But to strong party of fortyl gratify their passion for women the men neglected to men were embarking, to follow the order, allowed the Indians to come into two men arrived. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 63 a in 1828, fifteen of his men camp, and at an Indian yell five or six Indians fell on 3pqua Indians, when he with each white man. reached Vancouver, from " At the time the narrator, Black, was out of the 1829, he proceeded to join crowd, and had just finished cleaning and loading his Lake country." rifle; three Indians jumped on him, but he shook them istantial account in the docu- off, and seeing all his comrades struggling on the by the Pioneer Society, say- ground and the Indians stabbing them, he fired on gust, 1828, I was surprised the crowd and rushed to the woods, pursued by the great noise at the gate of the Indians, but fortunately escaped; swam across the )rought an American. The Umpqua and (went) northward in the hopes of reach- man was brought in, but was ing the Columbia, where he knew we were. But d not speak. After sitting broken down by hunger and misery, as he had no food ,cover himself, he told us he but a few wild berries which he found on the beach, aly survivor of a party of he determined to give himself up to the Killimoux, a by Jedediah Smith. All the tribe on the coast at Cape Lookout, who treated him irdered. The party left San with great humanity, relieved his wants and brought rendezvous at the Salt Lake. him to the fort, for which, in case whites might again Lmento Valley, but finding no fall into their power, and to induce them to act kindly untains to go east, they bent to them, I rewarded them most liberally. But as t, which they reached at the Smith and his two men might have escaped, and if we Lhen came along the beach to made no search for them- At break of day the next Indians stole their axe, and morning I sent Indian runners with tobacco to the ey had, and which they abso- Willamette chiefs to tell them to send their people in rafts to cross the river, they search of Smith and his two men, and if they found and their axe was returned. them to bring them to the fort and I would pay them, Lorning Smith started in a and telling them if any Indians hurt these men we an Indian, and left orders as would punish them, and immediately equipped a s come into camp. But to strong party of forty well armed men. But as our women the men neglected to men were embarking, to our great joy Smith and his ed the Indians to come into two men arrived.

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64 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST)

" I then arranged as strong a party as we could to tained any suspicion ol recover all we could of Smith's property. ... Hudson's Bay Compar The plan was that the officer was, as usual, to invite Rocky Mountain Fur C the Indians to bring their furs to trade, just as if the region claimed by t] nothing had happened; count the furs, but as the for his deliverance. Al American trappers mark all their skins, give them to partnership in 1830, Sm Mr. Smith and not pay the Indians for them; that for Santa Fe, but before they got them by murdering Smith's people. attacked and killed by ( They denied having murdered Smith's people, but career being thus termin admitted they bought them of the murderers. The man of piety, usually be~ officers told them they must look to the murderers for prayer with his men. payment. .. . In this way we recovered prop- In 1830 the Rocky M erty for Mr. Smith to the amount of three thousand reorganized, Smith, Wi two hundred dollars, without any expense to him; and retiring, and Jlames Brid which was done from a principle of Christian duty Fitzpatrick and Jervai, and as a lesson to the Indians that they could not was preparatory to a vi wrong the whites with impunity." Hudson's Bay Company Bancroft states that McLoughlin charged SmitI Fitzpatrick, a name afte at the rate of $60 per year for the services of the men, grants as pilot, led a pa and four dollars for any horses lost on the expedi- Peter Skeen Ogden had tion; and he bought the goods on London exchange. Hudson's Bay Compan Gray states that at the Umpqua " Smith and his goods, including liquors, party were met by a professedly friendly party of of $5 a pound for beaver Indians who murdered his men, seized his furs and bacco at $2 a pound, alc( delivered them to a party of men sent by the Hud- $25 and shirts at $5. son's Bay Company under Mr. John McLeod and scenes like those describe Thomas McKay to receive the furs and pay the In- Northwest Company. rI dians for their services-as learned by the writer thousand dollars a day wi from eye witnesses." Smith, who returned east and ery and disorder among continued his trapping, does not seem to have enter- ages and rival trappers c (Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 65 s strong a party as we could to tained any suspicion of wrong on the part of the of Smith's property. ... Hudson's Bay Company, as he insisted that the officer was, as usual, to invite Rocky Mountain Fur Company should retire from their furs to trade, just as if the region claimed by the British-out of gratitude id; count the furs, but as the for his deliverance. Although having dissolved his ark all their skins, give them to partnership in 1830, Smith in 1831 outfitted a party ay the Indians for them; that for Santa Fe, but before reaching his destination was dering Smith's people. attacked and killed by Comanches-a most eventful murdered Smith's people, but career being thus terminated. Jedediah Smith was a them of the murderers. The man of piety, usually beginning a day's journey with must look to the murderers for prayer with his men. l this way we recovered prop- In 1830 the Rocky Mountain Fur Company was ) the amount of three thousand reorganized, Smith, William Sublette and Jackson vithout any expense to him; and retiring, and James Bridger, Milton Sublette, Frapp, l a principle of Christian duty Fitzpatrick and Jervais taking their places. This Le Indians that they could not was preparatory to a vigorous competition with the h impunity. " Hudson's Bay Company in the Valley of the Snake. at McLoughlin charged Smiti Fitzpatrick, a name afterward noted among the emi- year for the services of the men, grants as pilot, led a party to Ogden's Hole, where any horses lost on the expedi- Peter Skeen Ogden had made a rendezvous for the the goods on London exchange. Hudson's Bay Company, and offered a stock of the Umpqua " Smith and his goods, including liquors, in competition. The price professedly friendly party of of $5 a pound for beaver skins was offered, with to- id his men, seized his furs and bacco at $2 a pound, alcohol at $2 a pint, blankets at party of men sent by the Hud- $25 and shirts at $5. Here were soon re-enacted under Mr. John McLeod and scenes like those described in the earlier days of the aceive the furs and pay the In- Northwest Company. Trappers that could spend a ices-as learned by the writer thousand dollars a day were the envy of all; debauch- Smith, who returned east and ery and disorder among a motley collection of sav- ig, does not seem to have enter- ages and rival trappers of half a dozen different and [Vol. 3]

- - 66 THE GROWTH OF by no means harmonious nationalities must have reached a furious height. In addition to the Americans mentioned in the foregoing there were some who later drifted west- ward, some reaching Oregon. These have been spoken of as typical Rocky Mountain men and should be mentioned. One was Thomas L. Smith," known as "Pegleg" Smith, who left his Kentucky home while a youth of but sixteen, and after serving his time as flatboatman on the Mississippi, struck for the Indian country, taking service with St. Vrain and Laclede for Santa F6. He was afterward on the Green River, among the Moquis and other tribes. He lost his leg and was left to die on the Platte in 1828, but recovered and supplied himself with a wooden stump, which he would, on provocation, unstrap and lay about him with effect when in a passion, but not quite to the shooting point. He was seen by John Minto in the Snake country in 1844, still a vigorous man, well dressed, and having much the appearance of a Mississippi captain. George W. Ebberts was also a native of Kentucky, and in 1828 found himself at St. Louis. Here he was Jotj to be married to a French girl, but his mother object- ing to the match he relinquished the idea and went to the Rocky Mountains. He was not the sole disap- pointed swain that thus sought to ease a fond regret. Joseph L. Meek, who took a large and useful part in Oregon history, and like Ebberts became an Oregon This trapper is not to be confounded with Jedediah Smith, previously mentioned. "Pegleg " was a very different character from the correct and often affluent trader. THIE GROWTH OP

.ous nationalities must have t. Americans mentioned in the ;ome who later drifted west- Oregon. These have been sky Mountain men and should Thomas L. Smith,* known as eft his Kentucky home while and after serving his time as Lissippi, struck for the Indian with St. Vrain and Laclede as afterward on the Green is and other tribes. He lost lie on the Platte in 1828, but iimself with a wooden stump, revocation, unstrap and lay Len in a passion, but not quite He was seen by John Minto 1844, still a vigorous man, g much the appearance of a as also a native of Kentucky, )P L If at St. Louis. Here he was Joe U C h girl, but his mother object- quished the idea and went to He was not the sole disap- sought to ease a fond regret. k a large and useful part in *Ebberts became an Oregon ed with Jedediah Smith, previously mentioned ro.m the correct aud often affiluent trader. I

' . .1 is S XV^'=4XEVE/ .ua.1mfe>gr.-

AN AMERICAN STATE 67 pioneer, came to the Rocky Mountains in 1829. He was from Virginia, leaving home to escape an uncon- genial stepmother, and finally brought up with the Rocky Mountain Fur Company. Robert Newell was the third of a trio who made a ten years ' apprentice- ship in the Rocky Mountains a preparation to citizen- ship in Oregon. Perhaps the crowning work of the Rocky Mountain Company, considered in view of lasting results and its effect upon the advance of civilization, was break- ing a wagon road to the continental divide. This was done in 1829. when eighty-one mounted men, having also ten wagons, each drawn by five mules, and two light mule carts, set out April 10 from St. Louis; the course taken was directly west to the Missouri bor- der; then for the Platte. By July 10 they reached the head of the Wind River; the wagons encountered no difficulty beyond that of crossing gullies, and trav- eled fifteen to twenty-five miles a day. They re- turned with loads of furs, reaching St. Louis October 10. They reported to the Secretary of War that they could have crossed the mountains, and this was no- ticed by President Jackson in a message to the House of Representatives. CH.

PERIOD OF AGiaI CHAPTER II

PERIOD OF AGITATION AND ADVENTURE HILE thi W/ mmoveme: the Roe] (lass of veloped American citizens of Ore Mountain trappers did ni sions into the preserve ( River, there was also goiI of the Atlantic seaboard year 1832 took practical least antedating, three E agitation was more or lei bringing to Oregon somi Americans who proved American occupation of ( gress which led the way I of the government to hol tion of missionary enterp iean occupation. Following back these I effort-commercial expe( gress and missionary mc combined in the brain of ( has been given to this m; uniformly represented aw credit due except that of to be, and placing in prin men would accomplish. ley, of Boston, who, until WI-IILE this somewhat slow and erratic movement westward was going on in the Rocky Mountain country, and a class of mountaineers was being de- veloped who later furnished the first American citizens of Oregon, though as yet the Rocky Mountain trappers did not attempt more than excur- sions into the preserve of the British on the Snake River, there was also going on upon the very extreme of the Atlantic seaboard an agitation that about the year 1832 took practical shape, giving rise to, or at least antedating, three separate expeditions. This agitation was more or less directly the beginning of bringing to Oregon some twenty or thirty stalwart Americans who proved absolutely essential to the American occupation of Oregon; to agitation in Con- gress which led the way to final purpose on the part of the government to hold Oregon, and to a promo- tion of missionary enterprise which completed Amer- ican occupation. Following back these three lines of enterprise or effort-commercial expeditions, discussion in Con- gress and missionary movements-we find them all combined in the brain of one man. Very little credit has been given to this man, and he has been almost uniformly represented as a mere dreamer, with no credit due except that of foreseeing what was about to be, and placing in print what he believed practical men would accomplish. This man was Hall J. Kel- ley, of Boston, who, until December, 1901, in an arti-

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72 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S' cle by Mrs. , has seldom been School book. All thE noticed appreciatively or even taken seriously by the dence of the public, ai historian. Kelley was undoubtedly one of those mind of fine order, hi minds ideal rather than practical, who give sugges- erratic; but still nei tions which more executive persons readily pick up That he gradually wi and carry out, without even thanks to the giver; but valuable and congenia there is ample evidence that he was first of all to per- Oregon, and promulg, ceive and publish views of the value of Oregon as a practical way to main component part of the American Union; and directly here, is a work for wh: to his efforts are due much that appeared in Congress all the Union, should and the migration to Oregon of some of her most actual movements he resolute pioneers. ing grasp of the man In 1815, when Kelley took up the study and agita- actor. tion of the ownership of Oregon, and proposed to The three expeditioi hold it by American occupation, he was a slender perhaps grew out of I young man, but had already reached such attainment tempted first in 1828, as to have the prospect of even a brilliant literary, or accomplished in 1832; greatly useful humanitarian, career. He was born was perhaps but rem in New Hampshire in 1798, was a graduate at Middle- effort, and belongs i bury, Conn., and also of Harvard, from which he re- Mountain movements ceived his master's degree. He became a school mas- Wyeth, 1832, and rej ter in Boston, attempting to reduce teaching to a studying the question science, and publishing " The American Instructor, " the atmosphere of Ne, which was highly thought of as a contribution to the new society set free fr art of pedagogy. He helped to found the Boston as life and heavy as f Young Men's Education Society, and his mind took a with the desire of soc strongly humanitarian bent. He studied the social that the truer and bet evil and assisted in establishing the Refuge Society. more and concluding lie was chiefly instrumental in forming the first Sun- right to Oregon, he b day.School in America, and wrote the first Sunday meet nature, where, fr

i THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 73

7uller Victor, has seldom been School book. All these efforts, requiring the confi- or even taken seriously by the dence of the public, and of educated persons, show a Is undoubtedly one of those mind of fine order, highly progressive and probably E practical, who give sugges- erratic; but still neither unsound nor impractical. ,utive persons readily pick up That he gradually withdrew his efforts from these ; even thanks to the giver; but valuable and congenial labors to take up the study of a that he was first of all to per- Oregon, and promulgate what proved to be the only Ts of the value of Oregon as a practical way to maintain the interests of Americans American Union; and directly here, is a work for which Oregon at this late day, and luch that appeared in Congress all the Union, should feel grateful, although in his Oregon of some of her most actual movements he shows the more or less hesitat- ing grasp of the man born a thinker rather than an y took up the study and agita- actor. of Oregon, and proposed to The three expeditions that were antedated by, and occupation, he was a slender perhaps grew out of his agitation, were his own, at- ready reached such attainment tempted first in 1828, and again in 1831, and finally t of even a brilliant literary, or accomplished in 1832; that of Bonneville, 1832, which itarian, career. He was born was perhaps but remotely connected with Kelley's 1798, was a graduate at Middle- effort, and belongs in greater part to the Rocky of Harvard, from which he re- Mountain movements, and that of Nathaniel J. 3ree. He became a school mas- Wyeth, 1832, and repeated in 1834. Kelley began pting to reduce teaching to a studying the question in 1815, inspired no doubt by " The American Instructor," the atmosphere of New England, which was itself a tght of as a contribution to the new society set free from old world customs " Bitter a helped to found the Boston as life and heavy as frost." Profoundly impressed an Society, and his mind took a with the desire of social regeneration, he conceived a bent. He studied the social that the truer and better way was to start new once dtablishing the Refuge Society. more and concluding that the had a aentaf in forming the first Sun- right to Oregon, he believed here was the place to ,a, and wrote the first Sunday meet nature, where, freed from the evils on even the ETT ______I PPPP"_

I I i 74 THE GROWTH OF 2 AN AMERICAN STA

Atlantic side, a new society might be established on He was counseled to w more liberal principles. His industry was very great tion, spent his winters i: in collecting all available information, and he ap- views upon all, probable pealed to the public by a continuous publication of all sistence that a slight, ide the facts he could obtain. He got the ear of Con- ing practical men. Und gress, and it is said by Mrs. Victor " from the simi- would be protected if larity between some of the views put forth in his founded The American S writings and the form of the first Oregon bills tlement of Oregon. Thi brought before Congress by Floyd, of Virginia, in agement, but rather rous 1820, and later, it might be safely inferred that Kelley the autumn of 1832 he c had been consulted." to the land of his dreair But finding that Congress could not be moved to and with a small part) action by the simple rights of the case, he decided in of Mexico. At New Or 1824 that he must not only point out those rights and continued the journey to show how they might be established, but himself form were confiscated by the a colony who should proceed to Oregon and begin ties, and he was throwr actual settlement under the treaty of joint occupancy. His offer to teach in th Although by no means a born leader, and thus now rejected, and he went on off his natural ground, he succeeded in organizing a no better success with company of several hundred persons, and in 1828 was Figueroa suspected him ready to move. His idea was to go to St. Louis, and rejected his offer to ma1 following the track of the fur companies cross to Sacramento Valley. An Oregon-precisely the route afterward taken by well liked in that then ( American emigration. But his plans were opposed Kelley, being cast off by by the fur companies, who wished no settlements, and into no favor by formib by the bulk of the newspapers, which are often ready traders then in the coui to berate a new enterprise, and was discouraged by rangement, however, wai even the friends of Oregon in the Senate, who feared and saved Kelley's jou] the movement premature. The effort therefore rather it made of his pe failed. perhaps would not have THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 75

*iety might be established on He was counseled to wait, and renewing his agita- His industry was very great tion, spent his winters in Washington, pressing his ble information, and he ap- views upon all, probably with something of the in- continuous publication of all sistence that a slight, ideal person uses in approach- in. He got the ear of Con- ing practical men. Under assurances that a colony Mrs. Victor " from the simi- would be protected if established in Oregon, he the views put forth in his founded The American Society for Encouraging Set- I of the first Oregon bills tlement of Oregon. This met with no great encour- ;s by Floyd, of Virginia, in agement, but rather roused unfriendly criticism. In be safely inferred that Kelley the autumn of 1832 he decided to make the journey to the land of his dreams, and securing a passport, Press could not be moved to and with a small party, selected a route by way its of the case, he decided in of Mexico. At New Orleans he was left alone, but ly point out those rights and continued the journey to Vera Cruz. Here his goods established, but himself form were confiscated by the Mexican authorities for du- -oceed to Oregon and begin ties, and he was thrown upon his single resources. he treaty of joint occupancy. His offer to teach in the schools or university was i born leader, and thus now rejected, and he went on to California. Here he had ie succeeded in organizing a no better success with the authorities. Governor red persons, and in 1828 was Figueroa suspected him of some ulterior purpose and i was to go to St. Louis, and rejected his offer to make a survey and map of the the fur companies cross to Sacramento Valley. Americans, moreover, were not route afterward taken by well liked in that then dependency of Mexico; and But his plans were opposed Kelley, being cast off by the authorities, got himself o wished no settlements, and into no favor by forming a partnership with some ipers, which are often ready traders then in the country. This meeting and ar- se, and was discouraged by rangement, however, was of great interest to Oregon, )n in the Senate, who feared and saved Kelley's journey from stark failure; or re. The effort therefore rather it made of his personal failure a success that perhaps would not have been accomplished if he had ir

76 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST brought the colonists that he intended from Boston. Gale, John Howard, La He secured men for Oregon of the fiber of the Rocky Carty, Brandywine, E Mountains. George Winslow, the la The leading individual of these Americans in Cali- ored man in the territ fornia was Ewing Young, who traded from Taos, and Clark expedition. , to California for horses and furs. To Contrary to expectat him Kelley told his plans, and convinced him that was received coldly, or Americans had the right of settlement in Oregon Oregon. By the missi( which the British were gradually winning away. are described indiffere Young was a man of ideas, and his mind was soon sons, most of them fror fired with the thought of occupying a baronial tract them had been sailors, s in some grassy valley of Oregon, where, as he and one, Mr. i learned, his bands of horses might wander and mul- ley was sick, having tiply at will on the ranges. He decided, therefore, to Southern Oregon, and v drive his horses north, rather than south, and carry quired to look after stra thither the flag of his country, which meant to him stated that there was unlimited liberty. As he says-Mrs. Victor quoting point. one of the savap his own statement-" I had seventy-seven horses and the beginning of the mules. Kelley and the other five men had thirty- tribes. By Michael I one. " Besides these seven men and 108 animals, the Hudson's Bay Compar party was joined by nine others with fifty-six animals. cisco, Kelley was picke These latter, however, deserted before reaching Ore- until overtaken by Yoi gon. The party that arrived was of the utmost im- ceeded the kindness of ' portance. This was not until the autumn of 1834, By McLoughlin, how Kelley being thus long delayed on his adventurous terdicted and even refi and disappointing journey, and we thus somewhat couver. Kelley, being anticipating other events; for Wyeth and the first cabin outside the post, missionaries were by this time in Oregon. The person in need, but w. names of the party from California, besides Kel- man." McLoughlin sa ley and Young, were Webley J. Hauxhurst, Joseph gon Historical Quarterli THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 77

Lat he intended from Boston. Gale, John Howard, Lawrence Carmichael, John Mc- gon of the fiber of the Rocky Carty, Brandywine, Kilborne, Elisha Ezekiel and George Winslow, the last being perhaps the first col- 1 of these Americans in Cali- ored man in the territory after York, of the Lewis ng, who traded from Taos, and Clark expedition. iia for horses and furs. To Contrary to expectation, this band of adventurers Ms, and convinced him that was received coldly, or actually refused admission in ht of settlement in Oregon Oregon. By the missionaries-Lee and Frost-they e gradually winning away. are described indifferently as " about a dozen per- Leas, and his mind was soon sons, most of them from the United States. Some of f occupying a baronial tract them had been sailors, some hunters in the mountains, of Oregon, where, as he and one, Mr. Kelley, was a traveler." Kel- rses might wander and mul- ley was sick, having contracted malarial fever in *s. He decided, therefore, to Southern Oregon, and was left alone, Young being re- rather than south, and carry quired to look after straying horses. It has also been ountry, which meant to him stated that there was trouble with Indians at this e says-Mrs. Victor quoting point. one of the savages being killed, and this was iad seventy-seven horses and the beginning of the enmity of the Rogue River other five men had thirty- tribes. By Michael Laframboise, however, of the ren men and 108 animals, the Hudson's Bay Company, returning from San Fran- others with fifty-six animals. cisco, Kelley was picked up and brought on his way eserted before reaching Ore- until overtaken by Young. Nothing could have ex- -rived was of the utmost im- ceeded the kindness of " Michael." t until the autumn of 1834, By McLoughlin, however, the entire party was in- delayed on his adventurous terdicted and even refused admission at Fort Van- aey, and we thus somewhat couver. Kelley, being sick, was accorded a small s; for Wyeth and the first cabin outside the post, and was attended upon as a this time in Oregon. The person in need, but was not treated as a " gentle- )m California, besides Kel- man." McLoughlin says of Kelley (Document Ore, ebley J. Hauxhurst, Joseph gon Historical Quarterly, June, 1900): " In 1834 one

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78 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STAT Kelley came from Boston by way of California, ac- sprinkled with old oak tre companied by Ewing Young and eight English and pendent settlement, scorn American sailors. Kelley left the States with a party and the Methodist mission. intending to come here bywayof Mexico,but the party be stated later. McLougl broke up on the way, and Kelley alone reached Cali- should " clear up II a char fornia, and with one man overtook our California trap - five hundred miles before I pers on their return about two hundred miles from was clearly unreasonable. San Francisco, and Young, a few days after, with the wise than that both McLoui rest of them. But as General Figueroa, Governor of to break up American enth California, had written me that Ewing Young and lin had kindly personal feE Kelley had stolen horses from the settlers of that the charge in due time, bu place, I would have no dealings with them and told the offer to trade at Vancou them my reasons. Young maintained he stole no While Kelley himself w horses, but admitted the others had. ... I told demanding care, but not him that might be the case, but as the charge was charity that sent his meal made I could have no dealings with him until he shelter outside the gate coul cleared it up. .. . I treated all the party the nation. He is stated by a same as Young, except Kelley, who was very sick. been " penniless and ill c Out of humanity I placed him in a house, attended on rather too rough for close him, and had his victuals sent him every meal till he not invited to the mess. left in 1836, when I gave him a passage to Oahoo. in mind that discipline wE McLoughlin also gave him seven pounds sterling. days, and a general commir The charge of horse stealing, however, was entirely This humiliating position unfounded, and made Young justly indignant. He he was left to wear his leat] determined to live in the country and to hold no in- stripe down the seam, a bl tercourse with McLoughlin. He accordingly took slouched hat, during his e claim to a large region, embracing nearly all the and long after the charge 4 Chehalem Valley, on the principle of a California away. Mrs. Victor, the e: rancherio, one of the most beautiful in all Oregon-a McLoughlin, allows the tr country of grass and streams and bare hills, lightly that his exclusion was due I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 79 a by way of California, ac- sprinkled with old oak trees. This became an inde- ung and eight English and pendent settlement, scorning alike the British fort r left the States with a party and the Methodist mission. More of its history will way of Mexico,but the party be stated later. McLoughlin's demand that Young I Kelley alone reached Cali- should " clear up " a charge sent from a distance of vertook ourCalifornia trap- five hundred miles before he could have any dealings ut two hundred miles from was clearly unreasonable. It can scarcely be other- g, a few days after, with the wise than that both McLoughlin and Figueroa wished Leral Figueroa, Governor of to break up American enterprise, though McLough- me that Ewing Young and lin had kindly personal feelings. Young cleared up s from the settlers of that the charge in due time, but loftily refused to accept lealings with them and told the offer to trade at Vancouver. ing maintained he stole no While Kelley himself was treated as an outcast, others had. . .. I told demanding care, but not accorded hospitality, the ,ase, but as the charge was charity that sent his meals regularly and provided dealings with him until he shelter outside the gate could not excuse the discrimi- I treated all the party the nation. He is stated by a clerk at the fort to have Kelley, who was very sick. been " penniless and ill clad, and was considered I him in a house, attended on rather too rough for close companionship, and was 3 sent him every meal till he not invited to the mess. . .. It should be borne e him a passage to Oahoo." in mind that discipline was rather severe in those m seven pounds sterling. days, and a general commingling would not do. " Baling, however, was entirely This humiliating position was assigned to him, and oung justly indignant. He he was left to wear his leather pantaloons with a red ] country and to hold no in- stripe down the seam, a blanket capote, and a white hlin. He accordingly took slouched hat, during his entire stay at Vancouver, i, embracing nearly all the and long after the charge of theft had been cleared Dr. Le principle of a California away. Mrs. Victor, the especial champion of st beautiful in all Oregon-a McLoughlin, allows the truth of Kelley's version, reams and bare hills, lightly that his exclusion was due to his colonization views,

gf 11

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80 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S¶ and his writings. She says: " It was Kelley as The services in then colonizer and defamer of the company who was un- to the fortunes of Ore welcome, even after it was evident there was no stain mention or remembra on his character." He remained until he had taken Rocky Mountain adven very complete statistics of the country, and had ther westward and ev mapped and located points of commercial impor- Columbia below the Snm tance; then returned to the East, where he made use Willamette. His name of his information. The treatment accorded Kelley been advanced to a hi~ by Wyeth and other Americans at Vancouver was literary ambition, but even more humiliating, and much less excusable, than of Washington Irving. of McLoughlin. reaching the literary fe The extremes of judgment upon the character and he gained more than th work of Hall J. Kelley seem to have been placed by venturer. " The Ad% Bancroft, who regards him as an idle visionary, and Vile " will always stai Mrs. Victor, who elevates him to a place among the ment, and it is a book p( fathers of Oregon.* ing in permanent form 1 * Our chain of right to Oregon had snapped in our failure to hold however, was not so ready to our own against the strongly organized English trade. But we might been his progenitors of the sevi easily forego that form of occupation if we could only forge the link to Correspondence of Nathanie of occupation by home builders. The other links of the chain of our It is impossible to show any title had been so gloriously welded that to fail at this point would not only devoting himself to t be a national disgrace. So thought many. The idea was soon to Oregon Question, and to proir warm a host of pioneers. It had already set one mind aflame. undertook and overcame, witho Hall J. Kelley, a Boston school teacher, became in 1815 an en- migration with the sole obje thusiast for saving the to the Union through coloniza- country. So completely was he tion. In 1828 an emigration society was organized with a large that we feel surprised at this membership. This was incorporated in 1831, and the spring of 1832 with what is now known of this was fixed as the time for setting out on an overland expedition to the disappointments he endurei Oregon. But something more than enthusiasm was needed to get an in Oregon, were very great, ar expedition even mustered, equipped and started for Oregon, to say dowments could have withstoo nothing of conducting it successfully through two thousand miles with him that he set on foot b of wilderness ...... Kelley wished to transplant a Massachu- ment to the shores of the Pacifi setts town to Oregon and make it the nucleus. He hoped to repeat commercial or colonizing.-Frai with appropriate variations the history of the Puritan colony of Quarterly, December, 1901. Massachusetts Bay. The New Englander of the nineteenth century, If we compare the unprotectE [Vol. 31 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 81 says: " It was Kelley as The services in themselves of Captain Bonneville Cthe company who was un- to the fortunes of Oregon entitle him to little more Ls evident there was no stain mention or remembrance than many of the other remained until he had taken Rocky Mountain adventurers, though he pushed far- , of the country, and had ther westward and even reached the banks of the tints of commercial impor- Columbia below the Snake and projected a fort on the ;he East, where he made use Willamette. His name and career have, however, ^ treatment accorded Kelley been advanced to a higher level partly by his own nericans at Vancouver was literary ambition, but more particularly by the pen ad much less excusable, than of Washington Irving. By this later feat, that of reaching the literary feeling of the American people, nent upon the character and he gained more than the simple credit due to the ad- ;eem to have been placed by venturer. " The Adventures of Captain Bonne- im as an idle visionary, and ville " will always stand as a fine literary achieve- 3s him to a place among the ment, and it is a book possessing extreme value as fix- ing in permanent form the romantic ideas with which n had snapped in our failure to hold however, was not so ready to sacrifice himself for an idea as had ganized English trade. But we might been his progenitors of the seventeenth.-F. G. Young; Introduction ation if we could only forge the link to Correspondence of Nathaniel J. Wyeth. The other links of the chain of our It is impossible to show any other American at so early a period ded that to fail at this point would not only devoting himself to the intellectual labor of discussing the ought many. The idea was soon to Oregon Question, and to promoting colonization societies, but who d already set one mind aflame. undertook and overcame, without support, the cost and perils of im- xool teacher, became in 1815 an en- migration with the sole object of verifying his teachings to the Duntry to the Union through coloniza- country. So completely was he sustained in his views [by the event] society was organized with a large that we feel surprised at this day to notice how closely they agree ated in 1831, and the spring of 1832 with what is now known of this region...... The sufferings and ng out on an overland expedition to the disappointments he endured on his journey to and his residence ian enthusiasm was needed to get an in Oregon, were very great, and few men of his slight physical en- pped and started for Oregon, to say dowments could have withstood them. It is only justice to agree ssfully through two thousand miles with him that he set on foot by his writings the immigration move- Xy wished to transplant a Massachu- ment to the shores of the Pacific in all its forms, whether missionary, it the nucleus. He hoped to repeat commercial or colonizing.-Frances Fuller Victor; Oregon Historical te history of the Puritan colony of Quarterly, December, 1901. Englander of the nineteenth century, If we compare the unprotected and unpaid services of Kelley with I [vol. 3] Ii 82 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STJ the western half of the continent was held during that of the Rocky Mountair plastic period by the people of the eastern. It was in talent for descriptive wr that youthful or fantastic conception that most of the visit these regions persoi charm lay, and which here and there from all parts ing permission of the W. of the East caught up occasional youths, who later to take observations and headed for Oregon, and even affected mature men tory, and the condition with the thought, if not of buffaloes and Indians and He then repaired to New unlimited adventures, at least with the conception of means to equip an expe opportunities for business enterprises no longer open party, which was the me, in the Eastern States, and fast closing even in the penses of his investigatio Ohio Valley and along the Mississippi. had been in the Astor pa Bonneville was a son of a French immigrant to cial backing. On May 1, New York and a graduate from West Point. Being to leave the bounds of stationed on the frontier he gained a romantic notion country. He had gatherE the protected and paid services of Lewis and Clark, we have to ac- a train of twenty wago knowledge that a debt of appreciation and public recognition, at double span of mules or I least, is due to the Yankee schoolmaster who spent the best years of recorded party taking a his life in teaching the United States government and people the value of the .-Ibid. Mountains, Sublette of I consider that the real contest for Oregon was between the date Company having gone to of the arrival of Hall J. Kelley, Ewing Young and the freemen who came with them, or near their date and 1816.-John Minto; Pro- mentioned heretofore, se ceedings Oregon Historical Society, December, 1901. An itinerary of Bonn, To him, more than any one person, in my judgment, may be at- he left Fort Osage on th( tributed, justly attributed, the subsequent occupation of the country by emigrants from the United States-and Oregon should in some delayed somewhat by the way, worthy of the subject and herself, yet acknowledge and com- the forks of the Platte, o memorate that fact.-M. P. Deady. The Boston school master (Hall J. Kelley) is a character the pages of Irving. Irving historian is not particularly proud of. He is neither a great hero Fork, which he intended nor a great rascal, He is great at nothing, and is remarkable rather ing " except that it was f for his lack of strength and staggering for fifty years under an idea too big for his brain. He was a born enthusiast and partisan, one of to go. This can only b a class of projectors more capable of forming grand schemes than of that owing to keen comp, carrying them to a successful issue.-I-Iubert Howe Bencroft. tain Company he was un THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 83

)ntinent was held during that of the Rocky Mountain country, and having some ple of the eastern. It was in talent for descriptive writing formed the intention to c conception that most of the visit these regions personally. He succeeded in gain- ere and there from all parts ing permission of the War Department for a journey occasional youths, who later to take observations and make reports upon the terri- I even affected mature men tory, and the condition of the native populations. of buffaloes and Indians and He then repaired to New York and there procured the ,least with the conception of means to equip an expedition and outfit a trapping ss enterprises no longer open party, which was the means he chose to cover the ex- ind fast closing even in the penses of his investigation. It was Alfred Seton, who he Mississippi. had been in the Astor party, that furnished the finan- L of a French immigrant to cial backing. On May 1, 1832, Bonneville was ready te from West Point. Being to leave the bounds of civilization for the Indian he gained a romantic notion country. He had gathered a company of 110 men and by a of Lewis and Clark, we have to ac- a train of twenty wagons drawn by oxen, or reciation and public recognition, at double span of mules or horses. This was the second \olmaster who spent the best years of recorded party taking a wagon train to the Rocky [ States government and people the Ibid. Mountains, Sublette of the Rocky Mountain Fur est for Oregon was between the date Company having gone to the head of Wind River, as ', Ewing Young and the freemen who heretofore, several years before. r date and 1846.-John Minto; Pro- mentioned ety, December, 1901. An itinerary of Bonneville's journey shows that person, in my judgment, may be at- he left Fort Osage on the Missouri May 1; June 11, subsequent occupation of the country States-and Oregon should in some delayed somewhat by the rains of spring, he reached d herself, yet acknowledge and com- the forks of the Platte, or Nebraska, as called in the, ady. Irving. Irving also states that of the North Hall J. Kelley) is a character the pages of roud of. He is neither a great hero Fork, which he intended to follow, he " knew noth- at nothing, and is remarkable rather ing " except that it was from the direction he wished ggering for fifty years under an idea born enthusiast and partisan, one of to go. This can only be explained on supposition ale of forming grand schemes than of that owing to keen competition of the Rocky Moun- 3sue.-I-Iubert Howe Bancroft. I1w tain Company he was unable to avail himself of the i ffiLM1L]Th-- j

84 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STAr

information gained by that company; yet even then Rocky Mountain Compan: their trace across the spurs of the hills, or over the been in a melee with the fords, must have been easily followed. On June this region was found to 21, the train was at Scott's Bluff, a point so conspicu- and IDripps of the AmericN ous on the old Oregon Road that it is worth while to the field. remember the origin of the term, which was simply August 22 Bonneville so for an unfortunate man of that name, who, being too River country, understan ill to move, was secretly left by his comrades on pre- beaver, and on the third tense of getting supplies, but whose skeleton was party of Nez Perces. Of 1 foqund the next year by those same men sixty miles so constantly in history a: from the point where he had been abandoned, the dis- cans, he formed a very I tance which he had crawled before dying. On July poor, but peaceable, and a 12 the Sweetwater, having deviated from the Platte, by the Blackfeet, who dr on this course being difficult to follow on account of not fight except upon the impending highlands, was reached; and on the 20th when once brought to ban the Rocky Mountains were first sighted. On the 24th for their predatory enel a small tributary of Green River was crossed, show- learned some of the chief ing they had passed to the waters of the Pacific, which Pierre Pambrun, the Hud& was indicated by a catch of trout peculiar to the at Fort Walla Walla, such streams of this side. On the 26th the train was over- or a holy day, daily praye taken by Fontanelle of the , faith in the Supreme Beir deprived of game on account of Bonneville's com- kind, peaceable and hospit, pany preceding them, and much exhausted by hard gambling and their main d travel. The next day the Green River was reached, which they indulged even and in the grassy meadows skirting this fine stream The following account the animals were allowed to recuperate and the men indicating the manner of t] to relax while a suitable field of operations was ville's provisions became chosen. men nearly starved, when Not far ahead of Bonneville had passed Wyeth, Nez Perees arrived, shar who was traveling with Sublette and Campbell, of the small store of roots and ro THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 85 iat company; yet even then Rocky Mountain Company, and at Pierre's Hole had urs of the hills, or over the been in a melee with the Blackfeet. Competition in easily followed. On June this region was found to be keen, and Vanderburgh 's Bluff, a point so conspicu- and Dripps of the American company were already in )ad that it is worth while to the field. the term, which was simply August 22 Bonneville set off for the upper Salmon )f that name, who, being too River country, understanding that this was rich in left by his comrades on pre- beaver, and on the third of September met with a :s, but whose skeleton was party of Nez Perces. Of this tribe, who have figured those same men sixty miles so constantly in history as the friends of the Ameri- iad been abandoned, the dis- cans, he formed a very high estimate. They were led before dying. On July poor, but peaceable, and although constantly harried ig deviated from the Platte, by the Blackfeet, who drove off their horses, would cult to follow on account of not fight except upon the strongest compulsion; yet Ls reached; and on the 20th when once brought to bay were more than a match 'e first sighted. On the 24th for their predatory enemies. They had already in River was crossed, show- learned some of the chief Christian doctrines from Bwaters of the Pacific, which Pierre Pambrun, the Hudson's Bay Company factor *h of trout peculiar to the at Fort Walla Walla, such as keeping of the Sabbath, Lthe 26th the train was over- or a holy day, daily prayer and worship and implicit hie American Fur Company, faith in the Supreme Being; they were also honest, count of Bonneville's com- kind, peaceable and hospitable. Their chief vice was id much exhausted by hard gambling and their main diversion was horse racing, .e Green River was reached. which they indulged even on the Sabbath. ws skirting this fine stream The following account is worthy of repetition as I to recuperate and the men indicating the manner of this simple people. Bonne- ,le field of operations was ville's provisions became exceedingly scanty and his men nearly starved, when a band of equally starved meville had passed Wyeth, Nez Perces arrived, sharing with the whites their ublette and Campbell, of the small store of roots and rosebuds. Bonneville started Pi- II __ ._

86 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI

a party out hunting and asked the Indians to join. tions from creatures so "To his surprisetheypromptlydeclined. He inquired comforts of life. ThE the reason of their refusal, seeing that they were in Indians were not unhe nearly as starving a situation as his own people. five days they returne They replied that it was a sacred day with them, and Bonneville was curiou the Great Spirit would be angry should they devote such success with such it to hunting. They offered, however, to accompany to understand that the the party if it would delay its departure until the fol- falo at full speed, unti lowing day, but this the pinching demands of hunger they easily dispatched would not permit and the detachment proceeded. use of the same weap " A few days afterward four of them signified to carry through their les, Bonneville that they were about to hunt. 'W hat, the poor savages were exclaimed he, ' without guns or arrows and with only pious, and generously one old spear? What do you expect to kill? ' They their hunting, giving smiled among themselves, but made no answer. Pre- several days. paratory to the chase they performed some religious " A further and m( rites and offered up to the Great Spirit a few short this tribe gave Captain prayers for safety and success; then receiving the to admire their strong, blessing of their wives, they leaped upon their horses to call these people relit and departed, leaving the whole party of Christian but a faint idea of the spectators amazed and rebuked by this lesson of faith vades their whole cond and dependence upon a supreme and benevolent Be- ulate, and their purity ing. ' Accustomed, ' adds Bonneville, ' as I had here- ance of the rites of th( tofore been to find the wretched Indian revelling in and remarkable. The) blood and stained by every vice which can degrade tion of saints than a h( human nature, T could scarcely realize the scene which length that he could gii I had witnessed. Wonder at such unaffected tender- their favorite subject, ness and piety, where it was least to have been ex- them. He often did so pected, contended in our bosoms with shame and con- fund of Christian do( fusion at receiving such pure and wholesome instruc- ' Many a time,' says THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 87

.d asked the Indians to join. tions from creatures so far below us in the arts and omptlydeclined. He inquired comforts of life. The simple prayers of the poor Lsal, seeing that they were in Indians were not unheard. In the course of four or ituation as his own people. five days they returned, laden with meat. Captain a sacred day with them, and Bonneville was curious to know how they attained be angry should they devote such success with such scanty means. They gave him bered, however, to accompany to understand that they had chased the herd of buf- ay its departure until the fol- falo at full speed, until they tired them down, when pinching demands of hunger they easily dispatched them with a spear, and made Le detachment proceeded. use of the same weapon to flay the carcasses. To ard four of them signified to carry through their lessons to their Christian friends, ere about to hunt. ' What,' the poor savages were as charitable as they had been Duns or arrows and with only pious, and generously shared with them the spoils of Lo you expect to kill 1' They their hunting, giving them food enough to last for s, but made no answer. Pre- several days. Ley performed some religious " A further and more intimate intercourse with the Great Spirit a few short this tribe gave Captain Bonneville still greater cause success; then receiving the to admire their strong devotional feelings. ' Simply they leaped upon their horses to call these people religious, ' says he, ' would convey ,he whole party of Christian but a faint idea of the deep tone of piety which per- ebuked by this lesson of faith vades their whole conduct. Their honesty is immac- supreme and benevolent Be- ulate, and their purity of purpose and their observ- ds Bonneville, ' as I had here- ance of the rites of their religion are most uniform wretched Indian revelling in and remarkable. They are certainly more like a na- very vice which can degrade tion of saints than a horde of savages. ' Finding at *arcely realize the scene which length that he could give them further instruction on ler at such unaffected tender- their favorite subject, they asked the officer to teach it was least to have been ex- them. He often did so, finding that he had quite a r bosoms with shame and con- fund of Christian doctrine and ethics to impart. pure and wholesome instruc- ' Many a time,' says he, ' was my little lodge M - I - - - -1100now- -- I -

88 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA. thronged, or rather piled, with hearers; for they lay depredations of the Blacki on the ground, one leaning over the other until there when their own were stole was no further room, all listening with greedy ears Bonneville made many to the wonders which the Great Spirit had revealed the two years, upon one to the white man. No other subject gave them half country. The speech, or, the satisfaction, or commanded half the attention, by a Crow chief, Arapooi, and but few scenes in my life remain so freshly on my Indian thought and langi memory, or are so pleasurably recalled to my con- tion here; and thanks E templation, as these hours of intercourse with a dis- Irving for its preservation tant and benighted race in the midst of the desert. ' " love of country, mingled M Further contact with these and the lower Nez He said: " The Crow Perces on the Clearwater and the Snake confirmed Wind River) is a good c these good impressions, and so far as Bonneville re- has put it in exactly the ports these were a people almost without a fault. in it you fare well; whene They were extravagantly desirous of communication ever way you travel, you with the Americans, whom they called Big Hearts. " If you go to the sout Their non-militant spirit often led to carelessness, great barren plains; the i and repeated losses from the Blackfeet; but they were you meet the fever and ag close friends with the Flat Heads and Pen d'Oreilles " To the north it is col on the north, and with the Walla Wallas and Cayuses bitter, with no grass; yo on the west. With the lower Nez Perces Bonneville but must travel with dog, had many amusing experiences, particularly in play- out horses ? ing the doctor, as Clark had done before him, and " On the Columbia the3 with equal success. He found these bands of the about in canoes and eat i tribe hospitable to the extreme, much more comfort- out; they are always tat ably provided and better provisioned than the upper mouths. Fish is poor foc bands; and, as at present among the same people, " To the east they dwel courtly and rather showy in their manners. They but thcy drink the mudd were rich in horses, and it was from them that the that is bad. A Crow's upper bands, who were the chief sufferers from the water. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 89

1,with hearers; for they lay depredations of the Blackfeet, obtained fresh supplies ig over the other until there when their own were stolen. I listening with greedy ears Bonneville made many journeys to and fro during e Great Spirit had revealed the two years, upon one occasion being in the Crow ther subject gave them half country. The speech, or, eulogium, upon his country manded half the attention, by a Crow chief, Arapooish, is so good a specimen of life remain so freshly on my Indian thought and language that it deserves inser- Durably recalled to my con- tion here; and thanks are due to Bonneville and s of intercourse with a dis- Irving for its preservation. It shows the true Indian a the midst of the desert. ' " love of country, mingled with contempt for all others. these and the lower Nez He said: " The Crow country (Yellowstone and r and the Snake confirmed Wind River) is a good country. The Great Spirit mud so far as Bonneville re- has put it in exactly the right place; while you are ile almost without a fault. in it you fare well; whenever you go out of it, which- desirous of communication ever way you travel, you fare worse. )m they called Big Hearts. Ii " If you go to the south you have to wander over often led to carelessness, great barren plains; the water is warm and bad, and the Blackfeet; but they were you meet the fever and ague. It Heads and Pen d'Oreilles " To the north it is cold; the winters are long and Walla Wallas and Cayuses bitter, with no grass; you cannot keep horses there, wer Nez Perces Bonneville but must travel with dogs. What is a country with- [ences, particularly in play- out horses ? had done before him, and " On the Columbia they are poor and dirty, paddle found these bands of the about in canoes and eat fish. Their teeth are worn treme, much more comfort- out; they are always taking fish bones out of their provisioned than the upper mouths. Fish is poor food. it among the same people, " To the east they dwell in villages; they live well; T in their manners. They but they drink the muddy water of the Missouri- it was from them that the that is bad. A Crow's dog would not drink such le chief sufferers from the water. WV-

90 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Sr

" About the forks of the Missouri is a fine country; the factor at the fort, I good water, good grass, plenty of buffalo. In sum- to purchase supplies mer it is almost as good as the Crow country; but in Irving, Pambrun assui winter it is cold; the grass is gone, and there is no replied that as acqua salt weed for the horses. would be on a footing The Crow country is in exactly the right place. could not supply the It has snowy mountains and sunny plains; all kinds trade in their territorn of climates and good things for every season. When ily set out to cross the the summer heats scorch the prairies you can draw River country, althou, up under the mountains, where the air is sweet and being March, and thei cool, the grass fresh, and the bright streams come mit. In the autumn h( tumbling out of the snow banks. There you can hunt the intention of establi the elk, the deer and the antelope, when their skins but reaching the count are fit for dressing; there you will find plenty of tilla was refused pro white bears and mountain sheep. questioning them for " In the autumn, when your horses are fat and that they had orders strong from the pastures you can go down into the pany--on pain, proba plain and hunt the buffalo, or trap the beaver on the advantages with the I streams. And when winter comes on you can take and hold no communi( shelter in the woody bottoms along the rivers; there considering the situati you will find buffalo for yourselves and cotton wood any basis of supplies I bark for your horses; or you may winter in the ette, all that he had 1 Wind River Valley, where there is salt weed in pack trains from the I abundance. supplied directly by so " The Crow country is in exactly the right place. soon decided to aban Everything good is to be found there. There is no would be fought to a country like the Crow country. " Vancouver. He cons Bonneville came westward in the summer of 1834, mountains, and althou having met Wyeth with his second party on the way success of his enterpri and established very cordial personal relations with tent his love of adver THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 91 he Missouri is a fine country; the factor at the fort, Pierre Pambrun, until he asked plenty of buffalo. In sum- to purchase supplies for his trade. At this, says as the Crow country; but in Irving, Pambrun assumed a withered expression and rass is gone, and there is no replied that as acquaintances and gentlemen they would be on a footing of good will, but his company is in exactly the right place. could not supply the necessaries for a competitive and sunny plains; all kinds trade in their territory. Upon this Bonneville hast- ngs for every season. When ily set out to cross the Blue Mountains for the Snake h the prairies you can draw River country, although the season was still early, , where the air is sweet and being March, and there was deep snow on the sum- ad the bright streams come mit. In the autumn he returned to Walla Walla with *banks. There you can hunt the intention of establishing a post on the Willamette, e antelope, when their skins but reaching the country of the Cayuses on the Uma- .ere you will find plenty of tilla was refused provisions by this tribe. Upon n sheep. questioning them for their reasons he ascertained en your horses are fat and that they had orders from the Hudson's Bay Com- us you can go down into the pany--on pain, probably, of losing their own trade lo, or trap the beaver on the advantages with the British-to furnish no supplies nter comes on you can take and hold no communion with the Americans. After ;oms along the rivers; there considering the situation, and not feeling that he had yourselves and cotton wood any basis of supplies for competition on the Willam- or you may winter in the ette, all that he had being brought by wagons and here there is salt weed in pack trains from the Missouri, while his rivals were supplied directly by sea at a tithe of the expense, he s in exactly the right place. soon decided to abandon an attempt that he knew e found there. There is no would be fought to a finish by the chief factor at mtry. " Vancouver. He consequently returned across the 7ard in the summer of 1834, mountains, and although not having made a financial his second party on the way success of his enterprise, he had satisfied to some ex, ,dial personal relations with tent his love of adventure and had collected consid- I - qqmmmmpw --

92 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. erable information of value. It was at Astor's hos- deserves honorable men pitable board that Irving first saw Bonneville, and march to the Pacific. was deeply impressed with his romantic tales of a life Nathaniel J. Wyeth, that he would himself have liked to follow. With Oregon was nearly co the personality of the soldier trapper he was also Kelley and Bonneville, charmed, his stories being told in a quiet tone, and terms of intimate acq' with gentle modulations that formed a strong con- New England with hig trast to their wild nature. Meeting him again in Lowell, the American Washington he found that the notes taken on the spoken of as " a towns trails of the west were being compiled and ready for ther reminiscence is a( an editor; with great courtesy, and thereby giving starting sixty years ag( the unknown author a standing at the top, Irving well in after years. H volunteered to prepare the manuscript for the press, son, whose conversati( thus adding a fine literary finish, some of which is leader of men, he was Irving's best workmanship, to matter that has less Wyeth as long as he I historical significance than much else that has been tively noticed in a rece recorded by western explorers and travelers. toric scenes and build Bonneville seems to deserve the credit of taking the this it is inferred that first wagon train across the divide to Green River, families, the author re and of making an attempt to establish an American Pond: "Time out of post on the Willamette. All that he actually proved belonged to the Wyett was that Oregon was held fast by the grasp of the serves our notice in pa Briton, and that American competition from the Mis- a short sketch of his souri was out of the question. As to his character, River. " he was evidently not a very powerful force, being Wyeth's expedition: sanguine and itinerant and something of a tyro in tical turn of the somew business, yet a tolerably capable commander. By ley, from whose writin Bancroft, who is inclined to underrate the competi- of colonization in Oreg( tors of the Hudson's Bay Company, he is given an incentive. It is certaib unenviable name; but, assisted to fame by Irving, he sterling effort to brin I

~if /I THE GROWTH OF l. AN AMERICAN STATE 93 rI le. It was at Astor's hos- deserves honorable mention among those who led the first saw Bonneville, and march to the Pacific. his romantic tales of a life Nathaniel J. Wyeth, whose period of activity in yve liked to follow. With Oregon was nearly contemporaneous with that of Idier trapper he was also Kelley and Bonneville, with both of whom he was on r told in a quiet tone, and terms of intimate acquaintance, is remembered in that formed a strong con- New England with high esteem. By James Russell e. Meeting him again in Lowell, the American poet and diplomatist, he is it the notes taken on the spoken of as " a townsman of mine "; and the fur- ng compiled and ready for ther reminiscence is added: " I well remember his Lrtesy, and thereby giving starting sixty years ago [for Oregon], and knew him anding at the top, Irving well in after years. He was a very remarkable per- manuscript for the press, son, whose conversation I valued highly. A born y finish, some of which is leader of men, he was fitly called Captain Nathaniel p, to matter that has less Wyeth as long as he lived." He is also apprecia- a much else that has been tively noticed in a recent volume recounting the his- ,rers and travelers. toric scenes and buildings around Boston. From rve the credit of taking the this it is inferred that he belonged to one of the old he divide to Green River, families, the author remarking in describing Fresh to establish an American Pond: " Time out of mind the shores of the pond \11 that he actually proved belonged to the Wyeths, and one of the family de- I fast by the grasp of the serves our notice in passing, and following is given competition from the Mis- a short sketch of his adventure to the Columbia ion. As to his character, River. " 3ry powerful force, being Wyeth's expedition may be regarded as the prac- d something of a tyro in tical turn of the somewhat visionary schemes of Kel- capable commander. By ley, from whose writings and society for promotion to underrate the competi- of colonization in Oregon he undoubtedly received his Company, he is given an incentive. It is certain that he made a brilliant and sted to fame by Irving, he sterling effort to bring down the fund of interest 11 - .- -

94 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STAT awakened in Boston to a definite movement and to, which the citizens of eithei reduce it to a business venture. right of trade in the whole In 1831 he was a member of Kelley's society, or on that coast. I think this colony, and was co-operating with the plan then on newed, because it virtually hand to send out two expeditions; the first was to but opening it to the comp( be of men only to start in January of the following pany-whose capital and year, to be followed later and at more leisure by [our] vessels cannot trade families. But as the date of making the start was de- this convention the treaty ferred from time to time, he lost confidence and pa- I do not think it will be, sc tience and determined to abandon entirely the scheme be an unencumbered field t of colonization and reduce his efforts to business It was his intention to I only.' He had formed a comprehensive view of the country dropped by the I business situation on the Pacific coast, and had occupied by the Americans studied the relations of the American and British pected thus to become the t governments to this situation. He felt convinced i was that south of the Co] that the Hudson's Bay Company was making a great eastward to the Rocky Mol deal of money out of furs, and that the Americans region of the Snake Rivei could do so if they would attempt to control the situa- expectation of disputing th tion in the same way. He said: " A strong induce- ther north; he also concei ment to this enterprise has been the peculiar state of British Fur Company had trade of the country in question. The American the American claim south Government, with ideas of reciprocity in their head, ply laying plans to adjust made a convention with Great Britain, which, after a remunerative business t having been extended, will terminate in 1838, by he thought were clearly fo He saw clearly also-wl *Wyeth's statement of his connection with Kelley's project is a3 routes and a generally larg follows: " What Mr. Kelley tells you is not the truth. It is true that I once proposed to join his expedition, but I relinquished the ical relations-what has be idea when they joined their two expeditions into one; for I consider lows (F. G. Young, UnivE it impracticable and inhuman to attempt a passage across the con- Oregon country lay much: tinent with a party of men, women and children; the undertaking is enough for the men." activity than to ours. it

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 95 definite movement and to which the citizens of either power have the common ture. right of trade in the whole territory claimed by both er of Kelley's society, or if on that coast. I think this convention will not be re- uing with the plan then on ;. newed, because it virtually destroys our trade there, )editions; the first was to but opening it to the competition of the British Com- LJanuary of the following pany-whose capital and facilities are such that r and at more leisure by [our] vessels cannot trade. If at the expiration of of making the start was de- this convention the treaty should not be renewed, as he lost confidence and pa- I do not think it will be, some part of that coast will bandon entirely the scheme be an unencumbered field to whoever may be there." ce his efforts to business It was his intention to " be there " and occupy a comprehensive view of the country dropped by the British, and not otherwise e Pacific coast, and had occupied by the Americans. The country that he ex- Lhe American and British pected thus to become the territory of the Americans ation. He felt convinced was that south of the Columbia to California, and mpany was making a great eastward to the Rocky Mountains, including the rich s, and that the Americans region of the Snake River. He had no thought or ttempt to control the situa- expectation of disputing the claim of the British fur- said: " A strong induce- ther north; he also conceived that England and the s been the peculiar state of British Fur Company had no intention of disputing question. The American the American claim south of that line. He was sim- reciprocity in their head, ply laying plans to adjust what he thought would be Treat Britain, which, after a remunerative business to political conditions that ill terminate in 1838, by he thought were clearly foreshadowed. He saw clearly also-which implies close study of Lection with Kelley's project is as routes and a generally large conception of geograph- you is not the truth. It is true expedition, but I relinquished the ical relations-what has been stated recently as fol- cpeditions into one; for I consider lows (F. G. Young, ); " The attempt a passage across the con- Oregon country lay much more accessible to British a and children; the undertaking is activity than to ours. .. . A vast expanse of I I -- - - 7- I

96 THE GROWTH OF' AN AMERICAN ST] arid plains lay as a barrier between St. Louis, the ing the movement of mei base of operations of the American companies, and the country, and ships si the game preserves of the Rocky Mountains and Ore- and of which he had or gon. This region had to be traversed with the more felt himself equipped b3 expensive pack horse transit. Before the British strongly like that of Le4 Company, with bases on Lake Superior and the but tinged at all times 1 Hudson Bay, there lay stretched an uninterrupted tensely practical, but h game preserve to the headwaters of the Columbia. speculations. Yet he s For traversing this there were wonderfully conveni- move which I have take] ent natural facilities of reticulated water courses, by a sound judgment i making easy water transits. " Wyeth perceived that Whether experience wi the country which he wished to exploit for the fur mains to be proved; b trade was thus outflanked by British territory, and he divest myself of the o determined to remedy the difficulty and overcome the better with my fellow n disadvantage by renewing Astor's plan of supplying than in those to pursue his Columbia and Snake River stations by ships and attention." He wi around Cape Horn to the head of navigation of the business, at twelve hun great river. he returned after his This he deemed would be wholly without ineum- Oregon. brance upon his fur business, for, taking note of the That it was a mental, efforts of Dominis, or Thompson, or other Yankee the bottom of his exti captains who had been to the Columbia, he calculated also in a letter written i that the ship transporting his goods might take on at ton to Baltimore. He the Columbia a load of salmon, as a return cargo, good, and hope and ei which would pay the entire expense of the voyage. man of me. I am dete Judging from data that he considered reliable, he melancholy feelings, bu computed that by the end of five years-the time that and enterprise, and foi he gave his enterprise to run-he would be at the and all but what is befo head of a business worth two hundred thousand dol- cast of thought," to as acrc lars a year. For this vast undertaking, contemplat- youth have started [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH Old AN AMERICAN STATE 97

-rier between St. Louis, the ing the movement of men four thousand miles across Le American companies, and the country, and ships sixteen thousand miles by sea, e Rocky Mountains and Ore- and of which he had only a general conception-he ) be traversed with the more felt himself equipped by nature. His disposition is ransit. Before the British strongly like that of Ledyard-sanguine and ardent, )n Lake Superior and the but tinged at all times by a certain melancholy; in- stretched an uninterrupted tensely practical, but haunted also by metaphysical ,adwaters of the Columbia. speculations. Yet he says: " Now in the kind of were wonderfully conveni- move which I have taken I have been guided, I think, reticulated water courses, by a sound judgment in regard to my capabilities. ts. " Wyeth perceived that Whether experience will justify this judgment re- shed to exploit for the fur mains to be proved; but in the meantime I cannot by British territory, and he divest myself of the opinion that I shall compete difficulty and overcome the better with my fellow men in new and untried paths , Astor's plan of supplying than in those to pursue which requires only patience e River stations by ships and attention. " He was then connected with the ice ^ head of navigation of the business, at twelve hundred dollars a year, to which he returned after his five years of adventure in be wholly without incum- 'Oregon. less, for, taking note of the That it was a mental, or moral, unrest that was at hompson, or other Yankee the bottom of his extraordinary venture is shown the Columbia, he calculated also in a letter written on the way, by sea, from Bos- his goods might take on at ton to Baltimore. He says: " My health is pretty salmon, as a return cargo, good, and hope and excitement have made another ire expense of the voyage. man of me. I am determined to give up no more to he considered reliable, he melancholy feelings, but rouse myself up to exertion of five years-the time that and enterprise, and forget the things that have been i run-he would be at the and all but what is before me. " Without this" pale two hundred thousand dol- cast of thought," to avoid which so many American t undertaking, contemplat- youth have started across the continent, or embarked [Vol. 3] qqnnppw

98 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA on the ocean to contend with the waves and storms, friends, including an ur or chase the " wallowing monsters spouting their and strained his own s foam fountains in the sea," Americans would not mortgaging his house foi have had their character or performed their deeds. interested his brother Ja That Wyeth was disposed to philosophize upon his sion as surgeon. The cc character and conduct is also shown by his admission the plan of the whalers: that he was impatient-which every letter shows- was to have a certain sh but asserted that he did not lack perseverance, which as furnishing the capita is also borne out by his course of life. two, and the remaining I Such reflection was altogether necessary in his among fifty men-althol case, if he was to attain " a fame and wealth that but twenty-eightwhenit E would keep him on a par with the best," as was his to make all provisions fc ambition, for he had no other capital than his rest- quiries in regard to salr less mind. Having formed a definite conception of and salted; provision fo: the enterprise, his only recourse was to interest men vegetables, and also to t of sufficient capital to entrust him with the means of grown as an article of c prosecuting his plan. It is illustrative of the man and trappers; traps E that he was able to do this; taking up, apparently quiries of the Secretary within six months or a year, and shaping to a point and of the Secretary of a business that a capitalist like Astor had found it no laws of trade and righ light task to float. It was equally illustrative of the other inquiries show tha plasticity of the times. In New England a man of teeming with ideas that brains and enterprise never need lack means to work efforts of any man single out his plans. The theory that great concentration size of his. of capital is necessary for concentration of effort is An interest in Bosto thus signally confuted. It is when wealth is almost shown in the enterprise equallydistributed among the manythat both the men before was manifested M and the means for extension of business are most Curious vehicles, calle& easily obtained. To his two brothers, Leonard and both land and water b Charles, in business in Baltimore, and other business shipped on the " Ida," X

i

I I

I THE' GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 99 with the waves and storms, friends, including an uncle, he applied for money, ig monsters spouting their and strained his own small means to the utmost, ;ea," Americans would not mortgaging his house for the small sum of $500. He or performed their deeds. interested his brother Jacob to accompany the excur- Ad to philosophize upon his sion as surgeon. The company was organized upon also shown by his admission the plan of the whalers: each one connected with it which every letter shows- was to have a certain shares of the profits; Wyeth, lot lack perseverance, which as furnishing the capital, eight parts; the surgeon, ourse of life. two, and the remaining forty parts to be distributed ltogether necessary in his among fifty men-although the company numbered 4 a fame and wealth that but twenty-eightwhenit started. Great carewas taken with the best," as was his to make all provisions for the business in hand. In- other capital than his rest- quiries in regard to salmon, which were to be taken led a definite conception of and salted; provision for starting a farm and raising Ecourse was to interest men vegetables, and also to try tobacco, which should be ;rust him with the means of grown as an article of commerce among the Indians ; is illustrative of the man and trappers; traps and horse caparisons; in- his; taking up, apparently quiries of the Secretary of State, Edward Everett, ear, and shaping to a point and of the Secretary of War, as to treaty relations, t like Astor had found it no laws of trade and rights of Americans, and many s equally illustrative of the other inquiries show that the mind of the leader was In New England a man of teeming with ideas that could not be covered in the er need lack means to work efforts of any man single handed, or with a force the ry that great concentration size of his. r concentration of effort is An interest in Boston somewhat similar to that It is when wealth is almost shown in the enterprise of Captain Gray forty years the manythat both the men before was manifested when Wyeth was ready to go. sion of business are most Curious vehicles, called amphibions, intended for two brothers, Leonard and X both land and water travel, were constructed and ltimore, and other business I shipped on the " Ida," a packet from Boston to Bal-

L 100 THE GROWTH OF timore, but were afterward discarded as of no ad- vantage. Although it was still March, the company of young men bivouacked on an island in Boston Bay a few days before starting, in order to inure them- selves to camp life. An admirable detail of this and the second journey is given by Wyeth himself, which will be inserted. Reaching the frontier on the Missouri, the party found they must follow the modes of the trappers, and joining William Sublette, who was close upon the wagons of Bonneville, as mentioned before, they proceeded with pack animals and horses toward the mountains. Sublette, having no fear of competition from this raw force, was only glad to have the addi- tion of a score or so young men for his own rather slender equipment. Wyeth was to a degree charmed with the hearty friendship of the mountain men- though later, speaking of that class, he calls " the large majority of them " " scoundrels." Later, with McLoughlin, he formed the strongest attach- ment; but found himself wholly in his control. He did not even dare to write a business letter from Fort Vancouver, as by conveyance of the Hudson's Bay NATHAI Express it would be opened and the contents exam- ined. In a much worn and broken condition the party emerged from the Blue Mountains and were received with great kindness by Pambrun at Fort Walla Walla. Wyeth was so far reduced as to accept a suit of clothes from the factor, and also to take passage I

- THE GROWTH OF rd discarded as of no ad- 3 still March, the company

:n an island in Boston Bay PI i.R g, in order to inure them- D dmirable detail of this and I. n by Wyeth himself, which in the Missouri, the party he modes of the trappers, Lette, who was close upon as mentioned before, they als and horses toward the ing no fear of competition inly glad to have the addi- Lg men for his own rather h was to a degree charmed p of the mountain men- that class, he calls "; the II " " scoundrels." Later, ned the strongest attach- vholly in his control. He Lbusiness letter from Fort nce of the Hudson's Bay NATHAIE J. WYZT *d and the contents exam- oken condition the party untains and were received Pambrun at Fort Walla reduced as to accept a suit and also to take passage

AN AMERICAN STATE 101 for Vancouver in a Hudson's Bay barge. He was re- ceived, however, at this central Fort as a guest rather than as a rival. It was on the 29th of October and the weather was stormy. " Here," he says, " we were received with the utmost kindness by Dr. McLough- lin, the acting governor of the place; Mr. McDonald, Mr. Allen and Mr. McKay, gentlemen resident here. " He found " Dr. McLoughlin a fine old gen- tleman, truly philanthropic in his ideas." He was astonished at the Hudson's Bay Company farm, where were raised 6,000 bushels of wheat, besides barley, peas and potatoes; and young orchards of apple and peach trees. This, as the garden at Walla Walla, doubtless seemed to him like a dream; and he felt honored by the attentions of men so well educated and.courteous as he found here. So far as business was concerned, however, he found no prospect whatever. Soon after reaching Vancouver the few of his men left (he mentions Ball, Woodman, Sinclair, Breck, Abbot and Tibbitts; and Smith was also of the number) asked to be released from their contract, and he could not refuse. One, Trumbull, died soon after reaching Vancouver. To add to his discomfort, the vessel on which he had suc- ceeded in shipping his goods did not arrive. This was the " Sultana, " which was lost in the Tropics of the Pacific. Passing the winter as a guest of Dr. McLoughlin, whose kindness and courtesy never failed, and mak- ing various excursions and observations down the or_- - , , -, .

102 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI

Columbia and up the Willamette, be departed with the land of his ardent but two men, as soon as the season opened, for the own, or a man left, an( East. July 4th, of 1833, we find him near the Wind ship were lost, so buoyz River Mountains, in an altitude so high that winter second attempt was al] has not yet departed, writing letters. To his brother In reading over his Charles he says, " I hope that you to-day are better reasonable and altoget off than myself. I hope you are in peace of mind and prosecuting the fur an content, enjoying with your friends and family the lumbia, he would buy I festivities of the day; and I hope you have a thought, Indians, supply the Rc too, of me. Imagine to yourself a fellow seated on ship via Cape Horn, ai the open and extensive prairie beside a little brook, New Mexico and oust t without a fire in freezing weather, and poorly clad in Louis in the Santa F6 skins, with plenty of poor raw dried buffalo meat, see that by the second y and you see Nat. " move from the Missou Although thus baffled he had been revolving a way try. to recover, or rather prosecute still his designs; he In Boston, he met w had made an offer to trap for the Hudson 's Bay Com- fore. As he said, he de pany-an offer which seems never to have been no- cause he always treatec ticed; he was too weak as a trapper even to com- he ever approach any pound with; another was to Bonneville to trap in Cal- competent to understai ifornia and go to San Francisco. But the final con- With the details of h clusion was to return home, and make up a new ex- need to linger. With, pedition. He proceeded to the Big Horn, an affluent in the spring of 1834 of the Yellowstone, and making a boat of buffalo the Columbia. He had bides drawn over a frame, set out down the shallow and Fitzpatrick with t] stream; reaching St. Louis at last by the Yellowstone had secured on favor, and the Missouri, and thence, by making some forced Dacre. " Captain Laml orders on his old creditors, as he had done at Van- gained the experience couver simply to save his self respect, soon completed goods for Indian trad, his return to Boston. But though coming back from bridge scientists, Nuttb THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 103

Willamette, be departed with the land of his ardent hopes without a dollar of his Ls the season opened, for the own, or a man left, and to hear that his goods in the i, we find him near the Wind ship were lost, so buoyant was he that his plan for the altitude so high that winter second attempt was already made up. -iting letters. To his brother In reading over his plans we find them perfectly pe that you to-day are better reasonable and altogether flattering. In addition to you are in peace of mind and prosecuting the fur and fishery business on the Co- your friends and family the lumbia, he would buy horses of the Upper Columbia id I hope you have a thought, Indians, supply the Rocky Mountain trade from his i yourself a fellow seated on ship via Cape Horn, and even invade the business of prairie beside a little brook, New Mexico and oust the farmer freighters from St. , weather, and poorly clad in Louis in the Santa El market. We cannot help but oor raw dried buffalo meat, see that by the second year at least not a wagon would move from the Missouri River to the Spanish coun- he had been revolving a way try. osecute still his designs; he In Boston, he met with the same confidence as be- p for the Hudson's Bay Com- fore. As he said, he demanded confidence of men, be- aems never to have been no- cause he always treated men with confidence; nor did > as a trapper even to com- he ever approach any except those who were fully 3to Bonneville to trap in Cal- competent to understand his designs. Prancisco. But the final con- *Withthe details of his second expedition we hardly ome, and make up a new ex- need to linger. With a much larger force he set out I to the Big Horn, an affluent in the spring of 1834 for the Rocky Mountains and d making a boat of buffalo the Columbia. He had a contract to supply Sublette ne, set out down the shallow and Fitzpatrick with their goods for the season. He uis at last by the Yellowstone had secured on favorable terms a brig, the " May Lence, by making some forced Dacre." Captain Lambert, for the Columbia; he had tors, as he had done at Van- gained the experience to have the correct sort of s self respect, soon completed goods for Indian trade; he had with him two Cam- lut though coming back from bridge scientists, Nuttall and Townsend; he had also 1W__ - - , _11 11

104 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S[

a small party of Methodist missionaries as traveling lost by drowning, sea] companions. He believed that he now understood the none by natural death, salmon business, and that his plans would all come Loss of property by I to a head at the right time and place. But never did considerable." On the an expedition, unless that of Astor, meet with a more little better from a seve continuous series of disappointments. Sublette and did not expect to recov Fitzpatrick refused to accept the goods; paying the sick list has been usual] forfeit, but without interest. This required Wyeth ber, and the rest much to stop on the way and build a fort, where he left have occurred besides some of his men to trade out the goods. The fur Indians.'" .. trade seemed demoralized, and the trappers from succeeded; half a carg the mountains were tardy to come in, and few furs are sick and dying off were to be had. Fort Hall, however, in the center disorders. " of the great Snake River Valley, remained as the Sickness, competitio relic of his enterprise. But this speedily fell to constant attendants tha the British, who built Fort Boise in the neighbor- such a serious extent. hood and undersold Wyeth, and then bought Fort self on the Columbia, ii Hall. Reaching the Columbia in the autumn he a party of thirteen S. found his vessel only just arrived and too late for whites under Captain the fishing season; she had been struck by light- was informed that the ning and was obliged to put in to Valparaiso for obliged him to spare hi repairs. himself take a long cha Nevertheless plans for starting a permanent busi- terward down the Colu ness were pressed forward. A cargo of timbers was he had greatly counted sent to the Sandwich Islands and the brig returned in ing the party, "two v time for the salmon season of 1835. Fort William and one froze to death i was built on Wapato Island about eight miles below accounted for." As t Fort Vancouver. But the salmon season proved a Bay people at once op( failure. Many accidents occurred to the men. Wyeth and the keen Indian bar wrote, September 6, " since writing you last, we have comparing goods and THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 105 I

;t missionaries as traveling lost by drowning, scalping, etc., fourteen persons; that he now understood the none by natural death, although the country is sickly. t his plans would all come Loss of property by hostility of Indians has been ] and place. But never did considerable." On the 20th he wrote, "I am now a of Astor, meet with a more little better from a severe attack of billious fever. I ppointments. Sublette and did not expect to recover, and am still a wreck. Our cept the goods; paying the sick list has been usually one-third of the whole num- est. This required Wyeth ber, and the rest much frightened. Thirteen deaths build a fort, where he left have occurred besides some killed in the interior by e out the goods. The fur Indians." .. . "Our salmon fishing has not d, and the trappers from succeeded; half a cargo only obtained. Our people r to come in, and few furs are sick and dying off like rotten sheep of billious all, however, in the center disorders. " r Valley, remained as the Sickness, competition and desertion were three But this speedily fell to constant attendants that he had not reckoned upon to ort Boise in the neighbor- such a serious extent. He had scarcely settled him- 4h, and then bought Fort self on the Columbia, in the autumn of 1834, and sent lumbia in the autumn he a party of thirteen Sandwich Islanders and eight ;t arrived and too late for whites under Captain Thing for Fort Hall, but he had been struck by light- was informed that the islanders had deserted. This put in to Valparaiso for obliged him to spare his own islanders to Thing, and himself take a long chase toward California, and af- starting a permanent busi- terward down the Columbia to recover the help that d. A cargo of timbers was he had greatly counted upon to man his posts. Find- Lds and the brig returned in ing the party, " two were killed, one was drowned, on of 1835. Fort William and one froze to death in the mountains, and two un- nd about eight miles below accounted for." As to competition, the Hudson's le salmon season proved a Bay people at once opened a stock across the river, iccurred to the men. Wyeth and the keen Indian bargainers passed back and forth Ye writing you last, we have comparing goods and prices. To the Indian mind 106 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN

there is an element of immorality about changing a we can always live. price, or asking more or giving poorer quality than and all things comf the established custom. The Indians, too, were a mere last until I see you. remnant, having utterly perished from Sauvie's Is- WVyeth's two grea land, of which Wyeth wrote, " A mortality has car- attempt, and brougl ried off to a man its inhabitants, and there is nothing striking and energe to attest they ever existed except their decaying estimate of the ret houses, their graves, and their unburied bones, of given; (F. G. Your which there are heaps. So you see, as the righteous with its established people of New England say, Providence has made represented a high room for me, and without doing them more injury tion. " He himself s than if I had made room for myself-by killing pany (Hudson's Ba' them off." This island might well be considered dom, steadily pursu haunted ground by the Indians, associated with such by their governmen sufferings to their people, and with the idea that plete." He discover the Americans, under Dominis, had poisoned the no overt claim far rivers. their policy was fasi When, all the next season, a malady of the same na- fornia line. He as ture attacked Wyeth's people, something of the same charge on them an superstitious feeling seems to have been entertained treaties, a few year' by his men. In a region of such loveliness the specter the mountains (he se of fever and death haunted all the shadows, and cast tion) as English as i uncertainty over all prospects. On September 22 he cans are unknown wrote to Mrs. Wyeth, " The season has been very their power is desp sickly. We have lost by drowning and disease and A population is alree warfare seventeen persons to this date, and fourteen of the country whos( are now sick. " Here was about the finishing touch to they will decide befo his enterprise, for he adds immediately, "Keep up try will belong. " It good spirits, my dear wife, for I expect when I come had reference to the home, to stop there; and although I shall be poor, yet fostered by McLor THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 107

Drality about changing a we can always live. I hope to find my trees growing ving poorer quality than and all things comfortable. I think this will be the Indians,too, were a mere last until I see you. " rished from Sauvie's Is- Wyeth's two great enterprises were a most gallant A mortality has car- attempt, and brought out upon the historical scene a ints, and there is nothing striking and energetic character. A comprehensive I except their decaying estimate of the reason of its ill success has been their unburied bones, of given; (F. G. Young) that " The British company you see, as the righteous with its established posts was supreme. . . . It Ly, Providence has made represented a higher form of economic organiza- doing them more injury tion." IIe himself said, " The measures of this com- L for myself-by killing pany (Hudson's Bay) have been conceived with wis- light well be considered dom, steadily pursued, and have been well seconded ans, associated with such by their government, and the success has been com- and with the idea that plete." He discovered, too, that while England laid minis, had poisoned the no overt claim farther south than the Columbia, their policy was fast bringing in all even to the Cali- , a malady of the same na- fornia line. He added, " Without being able to le, something of the same charge on them any very gross violations of the to have been entertained treaties, a few years will make the country west of such loveliness the specter the mountains (he seems to include all without excep- all the shadows, and cast tion) as English as they desire. Already the Ameri- cts. On September 22 he cans are unknown as a nation, and as individuals 'he season has been very their power is despised by the natives of the land. rowning and disease and A population is already growing out of the occupancy to this date, and fourteen of the country whose prejudices are not with us, and )out the finishing touch to they will decide before many years to whom the coun- immediately, "Keep up try will belong." In this latter remark he must have for I expect when I come had reference to the settlement on , ;hough I shall be poor, yet fostered by McLoughlin. He had therefore re- AN AMERICAN S 108 THE GROWTH OF

"'My son, these versed his opinion that the treaty of joint occupation And lump t] would be abrogated in 183S, leaving all the territory The rigid righ south of the Columbia to the United States. He The rigid w The cleanest ( rather concluded that, " Unless the American gov- Alay ha'e soy ernment make their power felt and seen to a greater So ne'er a fell For random extent than has been the case," the whole of the pos- session on the Pacific Coast then in dispute would After his " rando fall to the British. Yankee retired to his However, as it was proved in the attempt of Kel- world movement, the ley, the chief results to Oregon were in the men what national purpoe who were induced to come, some of whom, though long marches and vig but few, proved at the critical time to be a host for Wyeth's summary the Americans. These in particular were Solo- mon Howard Smith, John Ball and Calvin Tibbitts. On the 10th of Alarch, 183 The other incidental benefit, that of acting as con- men for Baltimore, where I 27th for Frederick, Md. Fr( voy to the first missionary band, will be spoken of foot and took passage from later. steamboats, which place we Wyeth, although thus with twenty-one men, three I unfortunate, manfully three more deserted. On th shouldered his losses, feeling that though he had been at the head of Lewis River, i defeated he had not been disgraced; he had tried what and Indians. We remained time my party had been redi other men would not even look at, and was now ready men, and then started for the to go back to the pond of his ancestors and sell ice; ment on the 8th of Novemn which he did with great profit. Writing to his friend route. There I learned that plies had been wrecked on th Brown he chose the following as the epitaph to his party so much that all but I defunct but still historically great enterprise; observ- who left me five returned therein 1834, and two rema ing: " Doubtless you have observed in your quondam In the spring of 1833 I cc associate some small imperfections, and although he the two remaining men. WI may now have no temptations the grain is still in him. stone one left me to remain i return. With the other I r, A quotation from an author you used sometimes to vessel for the Columbia, and read will do for his creed: for St. Louis, where I organi AN AMERICAN STATE 109 THE GROWTH OF "'My son, these maxims make a rule, eaty of joint occupation And lump the eye the gither; leaving all the territory The rigid righteous is a fool, The rigid wise anither. the United States. He The cleanest corn that e'er was dight less the American gov- May ha'e some pyles of chaff in; ,lt and seen to a greater So ne'er a fellow creature slight For random fits o' daffin'.'"' I,"the whole of the pos- then in dispute would After his " random fit o' daffin' " the Boston Yankee retired to his niche in the history of a great I in the attempt of Kel- world movement, the actors in which seldom knew regon were in the men what national purposes they were fulfilling in the some of whom, though long marches and vigils. al time to be a host for Wyeth's summary of his two adventures: particular were Solo- 'all and Calvin Tibbitts. On the 10th of March, 1832, I left Boston on a vessel with twenty that of acting as con- men for Baltimore, where I was joined by four more; and on the 27th for Frederick, Md. From thence to Brownsville we eparched by band, will be spoken of foot and took passage from that place to Liberty, Mo., on various steamboats, which place we left for the prairies on the 12th of May with twenty-one men, three having deserted; and on the 27th of May unfortunate, manfully three more deserted. On the 8th of July we reached Pierre's Hole that though he had been at the head of Lewis River, where there was a rendezvous of trappers :raced; he had tried what and Indians. We remained at this place until the 17th, at which time my party had been reduced by desertion and dismissal to eleven )k at, and was now ready men, and then started for the Columbia, arriving at Cape Disappoint- s ancestors and sell ice; ment on the 8th of November, 1832, one man having died on the route. There I learned that a vessel on which I had relied for sup- t. Writing to his friend plies had been wrecked on the Society Islands. This discouraged the ag as the epitaph to his party so much that all but two requested a discharge. Of the eight .reat enterprise; observ- who left me five returned to the United States by sea, one died therein 1834, and two remained as settlers. )served in your quondam In the spring of 1833 I commenced my return to the States with actions, and although he the two remaining men. When I reached the mouth of the Yellow- stone one left me to remain with some of the trappers until I should 3 the grain is still in him. return. With the other I reached the States and soon fitted ouit a you used sometimes to vessel for the Columbia, and on the 7th of February, 1834, left Boston for St. Louis, where I organized a party of seventy men for the over-

I

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110 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA.

land trip, arriving at the headwaters of the Snake or Lewis River arrived in the autumn of 1834, . in July, 1834, and on the fifteenth of that month commenced to companied me (including the m build Fort Hall, and after placing it in a defensive condition left it in the country. on the 17th of August following for the mouth of the Columbia. On the 15th of September I reached Oak Point, seventy-five miles from The following appreci the mouth, where I met my vessel, just arrived after a voyage of eight and a half months, having been struck by lightning at sea and services has been made b, so injured as to be obliged to go into Valparaiso for repairs. This vessel was fitted out for the salmon fishing of that season. Her late The ten years between the rene arrival caused me to detain her for that year until the following I tion of 1818, and the resumption year. During the winter this vessel went to the Sandwich Islands year 1837, present a new phase o with timber and returned in the spring with cattle, sheep, goats and termed the period of early America hogs, which were placed on Wapatoo Island, where in the meantime settlement was made, it is true, a I had built an establishment called Fort William on the south- about this time the question of co] westerly side of the island, and about eight miles from the Hudson's River began to be seriously agital Bay Company's post of Vancouver. At this post we grazed all the States. A company having this en animals obtained from the islands, California and the Indians; time in Boston, and another in N. planted wheat, corn and potatoes, peas, beans and turnips; grafted of the country the propriety of and planted apples and other fruits; built dwelling house and shops seriously discussed...... for working iron and wood; and in fact made a permanent location The first enterprise that follow which has never been abandoned. I made this my personal residence Nathaniel .J. Wyeth, of Boston, f during the winter and summer of 1835. In the autumn of that year agriculture on the lower Columbh I proceeded to Fort Hall with supplies, having sent some previous to tempt in 1832, Wyeth succeeded in that time. During the winter of 1836 I resided at my post of Fort settlement on Wapato Island, al Hall, and in the spring of that year returned to Fort William, of with the Columbia. Untoward cir Wapatoo Island, where I carried more supplies to Fort Hall, arriving his followers defeated his first al there about the 18th of June, and on the 25th left for the United east, after two years of gallant sti States by way of Taos and the Arkansas River and arrived home far from successful. His settlemei early in the autumn of 1836. an'\unbroken continuity, and has The commercial distress of that time precluded the further prose- subsequent settlements of Oregon, cution of our enterprise that so far had yielded little but misfor- character of a permanent colony. tunes. It remained only to close the active business, which was done enterprise are rather to be looked by paying every debt, and returning every man who desired to the in various ways to the furtherence place whence he was taken and disposing of the property to the best Substantially the same may be E advantage. All the property in the interior, including Fort Hall, promoter of one or more of the l was sold ...... Fort William, on Wapatoo Island, was retained, tioned. He contributed materially and the gentleman then in charge, Mr. C. M. Walker, was directed to territory by his persistent and wid lease it to some trusty person for fifteen years. That the original later in some measure by bringir enterprise contemplated permanent occupation is clearly shown by small band of men, some of wl the instructions to Captain Lambert. When I arrived in the autumn li settlers. of 1832 there were no Americans there, nor an American feeling. Of the eleven men which I had then with me three remained until I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 111

arrived in the autumn of 1834, and nineteen of those who then ac- of the Snake or Lewis River remained permanently of that month commenced to companied me (including the missionaries) in the country. in a defensive condition left it he mouth of the Columbia. On Point, seventy-five miles from The following appreciative estimate of Wyeth's just arrived after a voyage of services has been made by Rev. J. R. Wilson: struck by lightning at sea and > Valparaiso for repairs. This shing of that season. Her late The ten years between the renewal, in 1827, of the treaty conven- that year until the following tion of 1818, and the resumption of the subject in Congress in the went to the Sandwich Islands year 1837, present a new phase of the Oregon Question and may be ig with cattle, sheep, goats and termed the period of early American settlement. .... No actual Island, where in the meantime settlement was made, it is true, at the very first of this period, but Fort William on the south- about this time the question of colonizing the region of the Columbia eight miles from the Hudson's River began to be seriously agitated in various parts of the United At this post we grazed all the States. A company having this end in view was organized about this California and the Indians; time in Boston, and another in New Orleans, while in various parts as, beans and turnips; grafted of the country the propriety of forming such organizations was built dwelling house and shops seriously discussed...... act made a permanent location The first enterprise that followed from this agitation was that of nade this my personal residence Nathaniel J. Wyeth, of Boston, for the establishment of trade and 5. In the autumn of that year agriculture on the lower Columbia. After the failure of a first at- s, having sent some previous to tempt in 1832, Wyeth succeeded in the year 1834 in planting a small 6 I resided at my post of Fort settlement on Wapato Island, at the junction of the Willamette r returned to Fort William, of with the Columbia. Untoward circumstances and disaffection among ! supplies to Fort Hall, arriving his followers defeated his first attempt and sent him back to the n the 25th left for the United east, after two years of gallant struggle, feeling that his second was :ansas River and arrived home far from successful. His settlement, while it has had in some sense anuunbroken continuity, and has contributed of its members to the ne precluded the further prose- subsequent settlements of Oregon, can hardly be said to have had the had yielded little but misfor- character of a permanent colony. The largest results of Weyeth's active business, which was done enterprise are rather to be looked for in the contributions he made every man who desired to the in various ways to the furtherence of other enterprises than his own ding of the property to the best Substantially the same may be said of Hall J. Kelley, the leading interior, including Fort Hall, promoter of one or more of the emigration societies already men- L Wapatoo Island, was retained, tioned. He contributed materially to the ultimate settlement of the . C. M. Walker, was directed to territory by his persistent and widespread agitation in the east, and fteen years. That the original later in some measure by bringing into the Willamette Valley a )ccupation is clearly shown by small band of men, some of whose members became permanent When I arrived in the autumn settlers. here, nor an American feeling. with me three remained until I

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CHA

AGITATIO1

[Vol. 3] CHAPTER m

AGITATION IN CONGRESS

[Vol. 3]

Al - ~

I

I N order to undei I tional capital, tions between ti ernments, and I It was doing to citizens, we should non a point of extreme inter ernment, as well as ou has ever been the specia how our government hi i i people and protected t

i oppressions of a desp. whether in thus providi I I of the people by the go ple, have given the gove guard and secure our pi to maintain our standi I prevent foreign ruler, I upon our liberties or I overreaching us in the the needs of an increas that to the nation affo liberty, coupled with 1 person and property, a will go the greatest deg provided that its goveri quirements laid upon it of nations. In the Orep I illustration is thrown 11 showing how such que i

I i I N order to understand the feeling at our na- tional capital, and the progress of negotia- tions between the American and British gov- ernments, and what our own government was doing to maintain the rights of its citizens, we should now take a brief r6sum6. It is a point of extreme interest to notice whether our gov- ernment, as well as our people, acted efficiently. It has ever been the special object of the historian to see how our government has guarded the liberties of the people and protected them from the exactions and oppressions of a despotism. It is also to be seen whether in thus providing against the overburdening of the people by the government itself, we, as a peo- ple, have given the government power enough to safe- guard and secure our public and national rights, so as to maintain our standing among the nations and to prevent foreign rulers or despotisms encroaching upon our liberties or absorbing our territories; or overreaching us in the contest for territory to meet the needs of an increasing population. It is evident that to the nation affording the greatest individual liberty, coupled with the greatest security to life, person and property, and an industrial opportunity, will go the greatest degree of growth and expansion, provided that its government also meets efficiently re- quirements laid upon it by its position in the family of nations. In the Oregon Question much interesting illustration is thrown upon such a query; not only showing how such questions have been met, but in Or I_--- 11-I -11I - - Ir

116 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

what way our form of government, which does not English affirmed on ti rely upon hereditary interests, or titled or propertied owing to Cook's disco, rights to uphold public interests, has been able to to the American activ draw out and avail itself of political support to meet any formal proposition future or geographically distant national needs. that the river itself (I This is an aspect of Oregon history that can be little convenient that could b, more than hinted at in this work, but no history of agree to any which did this State would be complete that did not sketch at the mouth of that rivet ieast the process of national thought induced at the States. " capital by the process of accretion of this territory This, as remarked b3 to the American Union. equivocal, but the Amei As will be remembered Astoria was restored to the were prepared to dispul United States October 6, 1818. This was in con- risk allowing an unseti formity with the Treaty of Ghent, closing the War of that all territories and I 1812. AWhile this restitution-which was rather in power, west of the Roe order to satisfy punctiliously the provisions of the and open to the vessels, treatv than to extend American authority in the Pa- for ten years. This wa cific-was taking place, there was also proceeding a tion. It was signed Oct negotiation at London settling points of variance still This year was also n open after the treaty of peace was signed. It was Spain for the acquisit carried on by Rush and Gallatin, on the part of Amer- was conducted at Wast ica, and Goulburn and Robinson for the British. The Adams, for the Americz boundary was fixed then on the northwest so as to Spain. It was finally cc run to the Lake of the Woods, and thence west to the 22, 1819, and fixed the s Rocky Mountains. After this was agreed upon the providing that a line fr respective claims west of the Rockies were consid- to the 42nd parallel, dr ered. The Americans did not assume a perfect title allel to the Pacific Oc to all the coast, but that this was good as against boundary of the SpaniE Great Britain, leaving it to be inferred that another of the American territ( power, perhaps Spain, had a greater interest. The relinquished to the Un tI E

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 117

Government, which does not English affirmed on the other hand a prior claim rests, or titled or propertied owing to Cook's discoveries, and occupation, prior interests, has been able to to the American activity. " They did not make of political support to meet any formal proposition for a boundary, but intimated y distant national needs. that the river itself (the Columbia) was the most *onhistory that can be little convenient that could be adopted, and they could not uis work, but no history of agree to any which did not give them the harbor at lete that did not sketch at 4 the mouth of that river, in common with the United wnal thought induced at the i States. "I accretion of this territory I This, as remarked by Greenhow, was at least un- i equivocal, but the Americans could not admit it, nor i Astoria was restored to the I were prepared to dispute it by force, and rather than , 1818. This was in con- I risk allowing an unsettled condition, it was agreed f Ghent, closing the War of I that all territories and their waters claimed by either tion-which was rather in I power, west of the Rocky Mountains, should be free rusly the provisions of the I and open to the vessels, citizens and subjects of both erican authority in the Pa- for ten years. This was the treaty of Joint Occupa- iere was also proceeding a tion. It was signed October 20, 1818. ling points of variance still This year was also memorable for the treaty with peace was signed. It was Spain for the acquisition of Florida. Negotiation Ilatin, on the part of Amer- was conducted at Washington between John Quincy )inson for the British. The k I Adams, for the Americans, and Don Luis de Onis, for on the northwest so as to I f Spain. It was finally completed and signed February ods, and thence west to the 22, 1819, and fixed the southern boundary of Oregon,

this was agreed upon the I providing that a line from the source of the Arkansas the Rockies were consid- to the 42nd parallel, drawn thence west on that par- not assume a perfect title allel to the Pacific Ocean, should be the northern this was good as against boundary of the Spanish and the southern boundary o be inferred that another of the American territory. At the same time Spain d a greater interest. The relinquished to the United States all claims on the r I

118 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

Pacific Coast north of this line. About the same time after the treaty with the Russians, who had at one time claimed all the ganized by Calhoun. coast down to and below the mouth of the Columbia, Congress to put into ex, and after attempting an establishment at the mouth In 1820, urged possi of the Columbia, had actually made a settlement in of Calhoun, and influent California, withdrew formally as far north as latitude by Hall J. Kelley, as b 54 degrees 40 minutes. Thus the boundaries of Ore- Floyd, of Virginia, mad gon stood out clearly. The sovereignty was in dis- should be made as to tb pute after this between the United States and Great on the Pacific Ocean, ai Britain alone. cupying the Columbia I In this situation leading Americans from time to a committee, which broi time took an interest in examining the relative rights showing that the motio of their own country and Great Britain; and not in- persons having an inte frequently with the conclusion that the United States information. It was co had a right which should be protected. The hand of United States had a riS the great Southerner, John C. Calhoun, is visible 530, if not to 600, by vi here with a document urging action on the part of the Spain, as well as disco general government. In a report to the House of own citizens; that the Representatives, dated December 5, 1818, he reviewed made highly producti- the state of trade with the Indians, and recommended might be secured by as the only means of defending them from the cupid- guards " on the most n( ity of traders and from the influence of British trad- and at the mouth of tb ing companies, that the whole territory beyond the immigration to that re organized States and Territories be turned over to a from China. With this company, for purposes of trade, for twenty years, in for " the occupation under necessary regulations by the government. regulation of trade wit Whether this was Calhoun's own idea, or was pre- ries of the 'United Sta sented through him from some one wishing to or- migration from China i ganize such a company, does not now appear. The vation of the soil by . expedition to explore the Rocky 'Mountain territory afterward hoped to est I

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 119

line. About the same time after the treaty with Spain in 1819, was also or- t one time claimed all the ganized by Calhoun. But no steps were taken by he mouth of the Columbia, Congress to put into execution his recommendations. 'stablishment at the mouth In 1820, urged possibly by the recommendations ially made a settlement in of Calhoun, and influenced, as has been thought, also ally as far north as latitude by Hall J. Kelley, as has been seen, Representative 'us the boundaries of Ore- Floyd, of Virginia, made a motion " That an inquiry le sovereignty was in dis- should be made as to the situation of the settlements 3 United States and Great on the Pacific Ocean, and as to the expediency of oc- cupying the Columbia River. " This was referred to Americans from time to a committee, which brought in a most radical report, tmining the relative rights showing that the motion was premeditated, and that Xreat Britain; and not in- persons having an interest were at hand to supply ion that the United States information. It was concluded in the report that the *eprotected. The hand of United States had a right to the coast up to latitude In C. Calhoun, is visible 53°, if not to 600, by virtue of rights acquired from g action on the part of the Spain, as well as discoveries and settlements of her l report to the House of own citizens; that the trade of the region might be ember 5, 1818, he reviewed made highly productive, and that the whole coast ndians, and recommended might be secured by establishing " small trading ling them from the cupid- guards " on the most northeast point on the Missouri influence of British trad- and at the mouth of the Columbia, and by favoring iole territory beyond the immigration to that region by Americans, and also tories be turned over to a from China. With this report a bill was also brought trade, for twenty years, in for " the occupation of the Columbia River, and ns by the government. regulation of trade with the Indians in the Territo- 's own idea, or was pre- ries of the United States." The suggestion of im- ;ome one wishing to or- migration from China indicates some plans for culti- is not now appear. The vation of the soil by Asiatic labor, such as Wyeth ocky Mountain territory afterward hoped to establish with Islanders, partic- 4

120 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STI ularly raising tobacco to supply the Indian trade, and in the first instance. Th points to Hall J. Kelley's plans. by Dr. Wilson. " Ther( It was apparent, however, that the Floyd bill was saw the unlawful chara in conflict with the treaty of joint occupation, just was proposed, and oppoE signed to hold for ten years, and was of no value joined these actively on other than to call attention in a public way to the Territory, if settled, co rights of Americans on the Pacific Coast. This was the Union. To these we the most effective way under our form of government their opposition on oth to give publicity and to start a public sentiment for such measure, either in t holding Oregon. It may be remarked, too, that in That Oregon was con view of the actual course which affairs took, that it of this discussion, as of was very fortunate for Oregon that Calhoun's plan shown by Adams taking for establishing a monopolistic trading company un- lng minimizing manner der government protection, and Floyd's plan, look- 1818, closing his instruct: ing to some form of servile or peon labor, were alike be proper to remark the allowed to suffer lapse. Southern, or Mexican, or interests [in Oregon] eil Asiatic conditions, with some form of slave, or semi- IUnited States, involved slave labor, would have thus been impressed upon willingness, for this rea Oregon soil. By the very indifference of Congress a include it among the ol premature development of the Pacific Coast was de- with them. " layed, and it was allowed to be settled on Northern The agitation in Co] rather than Southern ideas, and was thus reserved from session to session, to free labor. British pressure held Oregon back ex- I mittee of the House as] cept to an elected, or selected, few, who brought no eral, Thomas S. Jesup, t( notions except of free American life-the clean seed of occupying the mouth i with the tares blown back. The occupation proposed letter in reply the folloi in this bill was stated by one of the advocates " as an took radical ground, givi occupation by force only, with some encouragement possession and military to settlers." Here is the tone of imperialism, with and the upper Missouri i which all plans for territorial expansion are tinged tion of the whole Wester THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 121 pply the Indian trade, and in the first instance. The fate of this bill is thus told )lans. by Dr. Wilson. " There were men in Congress who r, that the Floyd bill was saw the unlawful character of such measure, as it of joint occupation, just was proposed, and opposed it on that ground. Others Lrs, and was of no value joined these actively on the ground that the Oregon a in a public way to the Territory, if settled, could never become a part of Pacific Coast. This was the Union. To these were added enough who based r our form of government their opposition on other grounds to defeat every rt a public sentiment for such measure, either in the Senate or the House." e remarked, too, that in That Oregon was considered, about the beginning 7hich affairs took, that it of this discussion, as of extremely little account, is Agon that Calhoun's plan shown by Adams taking pains to write in the follow- stic trading company un- ing minimizing manner to the plenipotentiaries in and Floyd's plan, look- 1818, closing his instructions on this point: " It may or peon labor, were alike be proper to remark the minuteness of the present 'outhern, or Mexican, or interests [in Oregon] either to Great Britain or the ie form of slave, or semi- United States, involved in this concern; and the un- us been impressed upon willingness, for this reason, of this government to 3difference of Congress a include it among the objects of serious discussion the Pacific Coast was de- with them. " o be settled on Northern The agitation in Congress, however, continued ., and was thus reserved from session to session, and in 1823 a select com- ure held Oregon back ex- mittee of the House asked the Quartermaster-Gen- ed, few, who brought no eral, Thomas S. Jesup, to inquire into the expediency rican life-the clean seed of occupying the mouth of the Columbia. He sent a The occupation proposed letter in reply the following February in which he ! of the advocates " as an took radical ground, giving it as his opinion that the rith some encouragement possession and military command of the Columbia )ne of imperialism, with and the upper Missouri was necessary to the protec- ial expansion are tinged tion of the whole Western frontier, as well as of the -- I -- - __ - - , --" , r-, 0

122 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST fur trade. He proposed the immediate dispatch of with the actual rights o two hundred men across the continent and two mer- cupation and settlement chant vessels to proceed by water with cannon and " the unoccupied part munitions for a post at the mouth of the Columbia, much open as heretof( and four or five intermediate posts should be formed Britain, . . . and t1i between Council Bluffs, on the Missouri, and the Co- right to take umbrage a lumbia. Thus, he said, " present protection would ies from Europe in ar be afforded to our traders, and, on the expiration of They proposed definite the privileges granted to British subjects to trade on claim, the line of the 4! the Columbia, we should be able to remove them from and down that river- the Territory, and to secure the whole trade to our already had the name ol own citizens." This was an extremely strong form maps-to the ocean; Gi of agitation, and together with the proposition of the tion north and west of t] Monroe Doctrine, and its construction to apply to United States east and British colonies in America, made quite a sensation this was a proposal fr in England. Canning took notice of it, saying that would never depart. England was thereby put on her guard. The bearing of this pi Negotiations were resumed in 1824 in England, stood unless it is consi Adams now writing in serious style that the Oregon ship channel at the mout Territory was a country daily assuming an aspect north side. With an a politically, commercially and territorially of more half to the U~nited Stat( and more interest to the United States. But the nego- control of the Columbia tiations reached only an abrupt termination as Rush it gave the whole of the E on the part of the United States claimed sovereignty nificent harbors of Puge of the whole country from latitude 420 at least as far Harbor to the same pc north as the 51st, Huskisson and Canning refused to portages, too, at the Cas( consider any such broad claims, assuring him that By this arrangement ev( their government would never assent to the claims set coast, and the entrance l forth respecting the territory watered by the Colum- route of inland commu bia and its tributaries, as they interfered directly would be in the hands of THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 123 le immediate dispatch of with the actual rights of Great Britain, from use, oc- e continent and two mer- cupation and settlement. They considered, too, that, Z water with cannon and " the unoccupied parts of America were just as mouth of the Columbia, much open as heretofore to colonization by Great ;e posts should be formed Britain, ... and that the United States have no the Missouri, and the Co- right to take umbrage at establishment of new colon- present protection would ies from Europe in any such parts of America." and, on the expiration of They proposed definitely in lieu of the Americau -itish subjects to trade on claim, the line of the 49th parallel to the Columbia, able to remove them from and down that river-the main branch of which e the whole trade to our already had the name of Maegilvray's River on their Ln extremely strong form maps-to the ocean; Great Britain to have the por- ith the proposition of the tion north and west of the center of the river, and the construction to apply to United States east and south. They declared that l, made quite a sensation this was a proposal from which their government notice of it, saying that would never depart. Inher guard. The bearing of this proposition is not fully under- aed in 1824 in England, stood unless it is considered that at that time the ous style that the Oregon ship channel at the mouth of the Columbia was on the laily assuming an aspect north side. With an apparent disposition to yield nd territorially of more half to the United States this really gave the entire Ited States. But the nego- control of the Columbia to the British. Besides this rupt termination as Rush it gave the whole of the Straits of Fuca, and the mag- states claimed sovereignty nificent harbors of Puget's Sound, and all of Gray's atitude 420 at least as far Harbor to the same power. The only practicable n and Canning refused to portages, too, at the Cascades, were on the north side. laims, assuring him that By this arrangement every important harbor on the rer assent to the claims set coast, and the entrance to the Columbia Valley, and ry watered by the Colum- route of inland communication with the interior, they interfered directly would be in the hands of the British. What was left -V

124 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S to America after such a division would have been military occupation. worthless for purposes of trade or commerce, and in- upper hand, as withoi defensible from a military point of view. Hav- been so handicapped ing thus much, and with a colony growing from oc- dared venture to the P cupation in the Willamette Valley, as remarked by Gallatin very wisely Wyeth, with British sympathies, the whole country posed by Clay, and r, west of the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific, from disadvantageous to hi. California to the Russian possessions, would be as tion of joint occupatio English as they themselves could wish. Pending the to discontinuance the expiration of the , negotiations were either power. Joint renewed in 1826, Gallatin acting for the United situation nominally i States. He was backed by Clay, who wrote, " The yielding all by yieldii President is anxious for a settlement on just princi- much more favorable I ples. Such a settlement alone would be satisfactoryto ica. McLoughlin was the people of the United States, or command the con- ness and easily beatin currence of the Senate. . . . Much better that mat- and nourishing his s ters of difference should remain unadjusted than be and extending his tra( settled on terms disadvantageous to the United ing such friendlyarran States; and which therefore would be unsatisfactory ernor in California ti to the people and to the other departments of gov- trade and the reputatiP ernment." The Secretary of State wrote also that ruined. The grand old no line south of the 49th parallel would be accepted in Republican govern by his government. This made the contest in form thought otherwise at limited to the territory between the middle of the south of the Columbia Columbia River and the line of 490, or only about naturally as an indepei three-fourths of what is now the State of Washing- guaranteed by Great B ton; but in reality it was for the supremacy on the the inevitable result if coast, as control of this carried control of all. West- of the Columbia had b ern Washington was simply the field of battle. This as hard to maintain hi, was the masterful situation, both for commercial and as north of it; and bra THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 125 livision would have been military occupation. With it the British had the rade or commerce, and in- upper hand, as without it the Americans would have y point of view. Hav- been so handicapped that no enterprise would have colony growing from oc- dared venture to the Pacific Coast. Valley, as remarked by Gallatin very wisely employed the instruction pro- athies, the whole country posed by Clay, and rather than accept a settlement )ins to the Pacific, from disadvantageous to his country, agreed to a continua- possessions, would be as tion of joint occupation for ten years longer, subject could wish. Pending the to discontinuance thereafter on a year's notice by 1818, negotiations were either power. Joint occupancy, while holding the [ acting for the United situation nominally in abeyance, and better than Clay, who wrote, " The yielding all by yielding to the Columbia, was still settlement on just princi- much more favorable to Great Britain than to Amer- le would be satisfactoryto ica. McLoughlin was quietly prosecuting his busi- ites, or command the con- ness and easily beating every American competitor, . Much better that mat- and nourishing his settlement on French Prairie, ,main unadjusted than be and extending his trade to San Francisco, and mak- ntageous to the United ing such friendly arrangements with the Mexican gov- ] would be unsatisfactory ernor in California that, between the two, both the ther departments of gov- trade and the reputations of any Americans could be of State wrote also that ruined. The grand old man of Oregon was a believer arallel would be accepted in Republican government, but could hardly have made the contest in form thought otherwise at this time than that Oregon, tween the middle of the south of the Columbia, was most likely to develop ne of 490, or only about naturally as an independent state, with its autonomy tw the State of Washing- guaranteed by Great Britain; which would have been or the supremacy on the the inevitable result if the British demand of the line ied control of all. West- of the Columbia had been accepted. He fought just the field of battle. This as hard to maintain his trade south of the Columbia both for commercial and as north of it; and brought both Wyeth and Kelley 71-

126 THE GROWTH OF to their knees before him, though Wyeth attempted nothing north of the Columbia, and was confining himself to the territory which Great Britain was willing to formally allow should belong to the United States. He attempted the destruction of Ewing Young by denying him, on an uninvestigated charge of the Governor of California, admission at his fort, and refused him the privileges of trade, though Young contemplated no settlement north of the line claimed by Great Britain; and, while chief factor of a British monopoly, and with his subordinates acting as an officer of the British dependency of Upper Can- ada, he exercised a control over the persons and property of the settlers on French Prairie that was little less than autocratic-though eminently hu- mane and wise; yet still in a territory that the British were nominally willing to assign to the United States. The jurisdiction of Upper Canada, and an efficient government under that jurisdiction, extended over all Oregon down to California. While, on the other hand, under joint occupation the United States had neither trade, commerce, settlement, jurisdiction, or even protection for any casual travelers like Kelley and Young, or business exploiters like Wyeth. The persons and property of Americans were entirely in the hands of recognized Canadian officers, and to them they must look for protection. There was not THOAME one American officer of the peace, not one consul, nor an American medium of exchange in all Oregon; the money was a private currency of a British con- THE GROWTH OF

, though Wyeth attempted lumbia, and was confining which Great Britain was 4hould belong to the United the destruction of Ewing a an uninvestigated charge rnia, admission at his fort, ivileges of trade, though ettlement north of the line and, while chief factor of with his subordinates acting dependency of Upper Can- rol over the persons and n French Prairie that was ic-though eminently hu- a territory that the British assign to the United States. xr Canada, and an efficient urisdiction, extended over rma. While, on the other Lion the United States had settlement, jurisdiction, or asual travelers like Kelley Kploiters like Wyeth. The Americans were entirely in Canadian officers, and to was not protection. There THOMAS HART BEMTN , peace, not one consul, nor exchange in all Oregon; currency of a British con-

I - II- - I I :;A

AN AMERICAN STATE 127

cern, which could be withheld at the option of the company. The state of discussion for this period in Congress is thus ably summarized by Young in his Introduc- tion to Wyeth's Correspondence: " For the time, however, the agreements between the English and the American governments to a joint occupation resulted in an exclusive occupation by the English company. And immediately Floyd in the House (1820), and Benton in the Senate were sounding the alarm that we were in danger of losing Oregon. They urged further that with the English fortified there, holding influence over the Indians, our northwestern frontier would be exposed to depredations like those suffered during the English occupation of the ' Old North- west.' Those leaders proposed measures to protect and support American interests on the Columbia. The matter was kept before Congress almost continu- ally during this decade. President Monroe, in his annual message in 1824, also urged the establishment of a military post at the mouth of the Columbia, with the view of protecting and promoting our interests there. Expansion to the Pacific, however, was an idea that did not recommend itself to a majority of the two houses of Congress. " The expense of the proposed undertaking, and the possibility that the step would be viewed by England as a violation of the terms of the existing treaty and thus lead to war, were deterring considerations with the law makers. An Oregon community as a State of 128 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE the Union was generally held as a chimera in that day I CHIA before ocean steamships and railway locomotion. THEI MM Those constitutionally conservative, without the gift of prophetic vision, or the index of , could not but regard it in that light. Under such con- ditions to lend further inducement to the westward movement of a people already possessed of a per- verse bent in that direction seemed to invite a separa- tion into Atlantic and Pacific nations. "

[Vol. 3] AMERICAN STATE as a chimera in that day CHAPTER IV Ld railway locomotion. THEX MACEDONIAN CRY vative, without the gift lex of manifest destiny, light. Under such con- cement to the westward dy possessed of a per- emed to invite a separa- nations. "

[Vol. 3] I -- - - RIMPOP, --

W MBILE grou Wyei astro seen I sion of Oregon balk American diplomatist try only an arrangem ereignty and CanadiE of all Oregon, and Br cific from Sandwich Islands; an but disaster; there w. all the American peo the intelligent indivi of religious opinion, ] torian that there is no as religious faith. preached the return mit preached the rec preached for an u preached for a new w( ment has been accomp and has taken to a gr expression. Hall J. I tarian reformer, ha churches to the need; were suffered to con under control of a con ties was to afford ther WRHILE we have thus traversed the ground of the enterprises of Kelley, Wyeth and Bonneville to their dis- astrous termination, and have also seen the friends of American posses- sion of Oregon balked in Congress, and even the American diplomatists able to hold on for their coun- try only an arrangement that had placed British sov- ereignty and Canadian jurisdiction over every foot of all Oregon, and British commerce over all the Pa- cific from San Diego to Bering's Straits, and to the Sandwich Islands; and to the United States nothing but disaster; there was heard a request that thrilled all the American people. Whatever the opinion of the intelligent individual as to the objective reality of religious opinion, it cannot be ignored by the his- torian that there is no other such universal sentiment as religious faith. From the time that Mahomet preached the return to Mecca, or Peter the Her- mit preached the recovery of the Cross, or Luther preached for an unchained book, or Robinson preached for a new world, every great popular move- ment has been accompanied by a religious awakening, and has taken to a greater or less degree a religious expression. Hall J. Kelley, a religious and humani- tarian reformer, had attempted to awaken the churches to the needs of the Oregon Indians, who were suffered to continue in heathenism although under control of a company, one of whose special du- ties was to afford them religious instruction. P I __ - .-

132 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN But he expressed himself in a manner not easily evidence enough ti understood by the religious people of America. His Flatheads, who do n colony schemes and bills for appropriations of land, custom of flattening and numerous secular arrangements; and his inces- near the mouth of t sant political agitations struck the churches as the nooks and Clatsops main objects held in his view, and that his call upon higher the rank the the churches was rather a second thought. The re- Slaves only were nol ligion of that period was intensely unworldly and the Columbia the cus sought a most conventional, or traditional, expres- or leading men onl1 sion. Reformation, with demands for which the allowed this aristoc country was being belabored, was not recognized as Among the KalispE of a religious nature. To this state of religious feel- tirely, and they we: ing, averse to reform, but seeking traditional expres- ently, because their c sion, a voice from Oregon came as if from the pages naturally flat on to] of revelation. It was the Nez Perces, who have from wedge shape--as N the first been capable of picturesque episodes that But, besides this indi touch the popular fancy, or go to the people's heart, Flatheads, we have that thus reached out to the Great White Brother, it was the Nez Perc( and roused to action the already sensitive religious saying " they were I consciousness. Lee, in the book ent The facts seem to be unusually well authenticated, says they were " pro and show both the religious earnestness and the cle published in the I strong executive force of the people. an account is given o There has been some confusion in popular prints as was said " Three of t to what Indians it was who sent the deputation; many called the Flathead t: accounts, and those the earliest, naming them as Flat- other tribe which I do heads, which would be the Kalispels. But this arose mentioned-probably from a misapprehension. They are described as In- tribe called the Pierc dians with flattened, or pressed, heads, and were at comes most nearly wh once distinguished as Flat Heads. But this would be although reversed. I I7HE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 133 i a manner not easily evidence enough that they were not Kalispels, or ople of America. His Flatheads, who do not press, or flatten, the head. The ppropriations of land, custom of flattening the head obtained chiefly at and ,ments; and his inces- near the mouth of the Columbia, all of the free Chi- k the churches as the nooks and Clatsops flattening the forehead, and the and that his call upon higher the rank the more pronounced the flattening. ond thought. The re- Slaves only were not thus distinguished. Farther up ensely unworldly and the Columbia the custom was less observed, the chiefs )r traditional, expres- or leading men only, and seldom the women, being nands for which the allowed this aristocratic configuration of the skull. was not recognized as Among the Kalispels the custom disappeared en- state of religious feel- tirely, and they were known as Flatheads, appar- ing traditional expres- ently, because their craniums were allowed to remain e as if from the pages naturally flat on top and were not pressed to the Eerces, who have from wedge shape-as was conjectured by Spalding. uresque episodes that But, besides this indirect evidence that it was not the to the people's heart, Flatheads, we have abundant direct testimony that Great White Brother, it was the Nez Perces. Cushing Eells is quoted as tdy sensitive religious saying " they were Nez Perces only." Rev. Daniel Lee, in the book entitled " Ten Years in Oregon," ily well authenticated, says they were " probably Nez Perces. " In an arti- earnestness and the cle published in the Illinois Patriot, in October, 1833, .e Nez Perce people. an account is given of the visit of the Indians, and it a in popular prints as was said " Three of these Indians were from what is the deputation; many called the Flathead tribe, and one of them from an- naming them as Flat- other tribe which I do not recollect that General Clark ispels. But this arose mentioned-probably, however, from the adjoining y are described as In- tribe called the Pierced Nose Indians." The latter d, heads, and were at comes most nearly what seems to be the actual fact- ds. But this would be although reversed. The three were from the Nez I __ I- _.

134 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. Perces, and the fourth was an adopted Flathead, but indication that they I belonging to the Nez Perce tribe. This at least is the sources that the true w( tradition still held among the Nez Perces, as ascer- found in the Catholic f tained by Miss Kate Macbeth, long a missionary at man directly from Heaw Kamiah and Lapwai. Mention is made on this point pleased the great Spiri of the tall silk hat, which was considered as the sign revelation. Who it w. of the white man, along with traditions dating from Book can be only conje the Lewis and Clark visit, of the 'rods of steel from ediah Smith, who was which the white men drew fire, and the trumpet that quently through their brayed like a trapper's donkey. The idea of the hat desire now, therefore, w as a special mark of the white man's dignity is also to learn just as God h, confirmed by traditions still alive among the tribe, as own words, what they E of Watkuese, already mentioned in connection with The first report to the Lewis and Clark. The idea, according to Miss Mac- Indians to get the Bib] beth, of sending a deputation east was to find Lewis York Christian Advocatk and Clark, whom the Nez Perces remembered as the the form of a commun Great White Brothers, who not only had so many Esq., who was connecte wonderful weapons and accouterments, but had ment of Wyandotte In showed the most fraternal disposition, and had cured Mississippi. It was wr many of their people of sickness. It was from a de- vious, and inclosed a 1 sire to learn the true form of worship, a subject Walker, an interpreter which, as seen from the account given by Bonneville, dated January 19. Disc was of the utmost concern to them, that they deter- tents of Walker's comr mined to follow the trail of their Great Brothers and it a strong appeal to se learn from what they considered perfectly reliable struct these people. HE sources what was their duty in order to merit the is the circumstance of favor of the Great Spirit. As intimated by Bonne- foot three thousand mi ville, Pierre Pambrun had already given them in- (over) extensive prairi( structions in the form of the Catholic worship, which truth! The story has t they were following in great simplicity. But there is . .. There is not rHE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 135 adopted Flathead, but indication that they had heard from Protestant le. This at least is the sources that the true worship and faith was not to be Nez Perces, as ascer- found in the Catholic forms, but in a book, given to long a missionary at man directly from Heaven, and that the worship that Lis made on this point pleased the great Spirit must be received from this considered as the sign revelation. Who it was that thus told them of the raditions dating from Book can be only conjectured. Possibly it was. Jed- 1he'rods of steel fromn ediah Smith, who was a man of piety, and was fre- and the trumpet that quently through their country. Their most intense The idea of the hat desire now, therefore, was to find the Great Book, and man's dignity is also to learn just as God had taught to men, and in His ve among the tribe, as own words, what they should do. ed in connection with The first report to the country of the desire of these- ~cording to Miss Mac- Indians to get the Bible, was published in the New- mst was to find Lewis York ChristianAdvocate, March 1, 1833. This was in ,es remembered as the the form of a communication from G. P. Disoway, Lot only had so many Esq., who was connected with the removal and settle - outerments, but had ment of Wyandotte Indians upon lands west of the osition, and had cured Mississippi. It was written by him February 18 pre- ss. It was from a de- vious, and inclosed a letter from his agent, William )f worship, a subject Walker, an interpreter and member of the nation, Lt given by Bonneville, dated January 19. Disoway was struck with the con- them, that they deter- tents of Walker's communication, and inclosed with ir Great Brothers and it a strong appeal to send missionaries at once to in- *red perfectly reliable struct these people. He said: "How deeply affecting in order to merit the is the circumstance of the four natives traveling on ; intimated by Bonne- foot three thousand miles through thick forests and ready given them in- (over) extensive prairies, sincere searchers after the Etholic worship, which truth! The story has scarcely a parallel in history. mplicity. But there is . . . There is not perhaps west of the Rocky FEE--

136 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SU Mountains any portion of the Indians that presents at to the west, I proceeder this moment a spectacle so full of interest to contem- tendent of Indian AfM; plative minds as the Flathead tribe. Not a thought introduction from the of converting or civilizing them enters the mind of ceive the same from 1 the sordid demoralizing hunters and fur traders. the upper country. AW These simple children of nature even shrink from the ing business with hin loose morality and inhumanities often introduced chiefs from the Flath among them by the white man. Let the church awake and were quite sick, an( from her slumbers, and go forth in her strength to the a few days ago. The salvation of these wandering sons of our native for- Rocky Mountains. Ci ests. We are citizens of this vast universe, and our into the adjoining roe life embraces not merely a moment, but eternity it- seen any but often heam self. Thus exalted, what can be more worthy of our their appearance. Th, high destination than to befriend our species and any tribe of Indians I those efforts that are making to release immortal delicately formed, sm, spirits from the chains of error and superstitition, symmetry throughout, and to bring them to the knowledge of the true God." supposed from their I Although under the conventional religious forms, the head was actually f here was a depth of humanitarian spirit fully equal case. . . . The dii to the simple faith of the Nez Perces that the White foot was nearly three 1 Brother would communicate his revelation to the Clark, their Great Fal Red Brother, simply on account of the unity of the Clark thus mentions he species. taught the Nez PerceE Walker's letter, written from Sandusky, Ohio, Father] as they call hii after taking note of the examination he made of the officer they ever becam proposed lands of the Wyandottes, dwells chiefly much confidence in hin upon his meeting with the Nez Perces, whom he found portant matters. GenE on a visit to General Clark, at St. Louis. He says: mission, and, my dear: " I will here relate an anecdote, if I may so call it. to describe to you my Immediately after we landed in St. Louis, on our way narrative. I will here i THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 137 Indians that presents at to the west, I proceeded to General Clark's, Superin- 11 of interest to contem- tendent of Indian Affairs, to present our letters of I tribe. Not a thought introduction from the Secretary of War, and to re- iem enters the mind of ceive the same from him to the different agents of aters and fur traders. the upper country. While in his office and transact- re even shrink from the ing business with him, he informed me that three iities often introduced chiefs from the Flathead nation were in his house, L. Let the church awake and were quite sick, and that one, the fourth, had died th in her strength to the a few days ago. They were from the west of the sons of our native for- Rocky Mountains. Curiosity prompted me to step vast universe, and our into the adjoining room to see them, having never aoment, but eternity it- seen any but often heard of them. I was struck with be more worthy of our their appearance. They differ in appearance from friend our species and any tribe of Indians I have ever seen; small in size, ag to release immortal delicately formed, small limbs, and the most exact rror and superstitition, symmetry throughout, except the head. I had always [ledge of the true God." supposed from their being called ' Flatheads ' that ntional religious forms, the head was actually flat on top. But this is not the tarian spirit fully equal case. . . . The distance they had traveled on z Perces that the White foot was nearly three thousand miles to see General > his revelation to the Clark, their Great Father [Brother more likely, as unnt of the unity of the Clark thus mentions he designated himself, while he taught the Nez Perces to call the President Great from Sandusky, Ohio, Father) as they call him, he being the first American aination he made of the officer they ever became acquainted with, and having indottes, dwells chiefly much confidence in him, as they said, upon very im- s Perces, whom he found portant matters. General Clark related to me their at St. Louis. He says: mission, and, my dear friend, it is impossible for me Lote, if I may so call it. to describe to you my feelings while listening to his in St. Louis, on our way narrative. I will here relate it as briefly as I can. It I __ 1 -7-

138 THE GROWTH fOF AN AMERICAN STj

appeared that some white man had penetrated into ascension, and the relati their country and had happened to be a spectator at ator, the judgment, that one of their religious meetings, which they scrupu- " Poor fellows, they lously perform at stated periods. He informed them turn home to their peop that their mode of worshiping the Supreme Being died in St. Louis, and was radically wrong, and instead of being acceptable somewhat indisposed, s and pleasing was displeasing to Him. He also in- Whether they reached hi formed them that the white people away toward the change of diet and clii rising sun had been put in possession of the true upon their health. If tl mode of worshiping the Great Spirit. They had a their manes! They die( book containing directions how to conduct themselves was informed that the F to enjoy His favor and converse with Him, and with fewest vices of any tribe this guide no one need go astray. . .. Upon re- of America. " ceiving this information they held a national council The article in the Illi to take this subject into consideration. . .. They October, of the same y. accordingly deputed four of their chiefs to proceed the article of Disoway' to St. Louis to see their Great Father, General Clark, would seem-had create to inquire of him, having no doubt but he would tell sion of the Illinois S them the whole truth about it. committee was appointi " They arrived at St. Louis and presented them- and report. The report selves to General Clark. The latter was somewhat not only with the India puzzled, being sensible of the responsibility that rest- of the entire Oregon co ed upon him. He, however, proceeded, by informing per added-" is at no them that what they had been told by the white men citizens from all parts in their own country was true. He then went into a very wise opinion was succinct history of man from the creation down to would go out beforehai the advent of the Saviour, explained to them all the arts of peace, they wou moral precepts of the Bible, expounded to them the savagery that usually a decalogue, informed them of the advent of the Sav- a new country; and con iour, His life, precepts, His death, resurrection and our general governmer 'HE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 139

Lhad penetrated into ascension, and the relation He stands to man as medi- d to be a spectator at ator, the judgment, that He will judge the world, etc. ,, which they scrupu- " Poor fellows, they were not all permitted to re- s. He informed them turn home to their people with the intelligence. Two the Supreme Being died in St. Louis, and the remaining two, although Ad of being acceptable somewhat indisposed, set out for their native land. to Him. He also in- Whether they reached home or not is not known. The ple away toward the change of diet and climate operated very severely )ssession of the true upon their health. If they died on the way, peace to Spirit. They had a their manes! They died inquirers after the truth. I to conduct themselves was informed that the Flatheads as a nation have the e with Him, and with fewest vices of any tribe of Indians on the Continent y. . .. Upon re- of America." eld a national council The article in the Illinois Patriot was published in ~ration. . . They October, of the same year, 1833. According to this, leir chiefs to proceed the article of Disoway's with Walker's letter-as it 'ather, General Clark, would seem -had created so much interest at the ses- )ubt but he would tell sion of the Illinois Synod-Presbyterian-that a committee was appointed to investigate the account, and presented them- and report. The report brought in dealt, apparently, latter was somewhat not only with the Indians, but included descriptions sponsibility that rest- of the entire Oregon country, " which "-as the pa- )ceeded, by informing per added-" is at no distant day to be occupied by -old bv the white men citizens from all parts of the United States." The He then went into a very wise opinion was also expressed that if any the creation down to would go out beforehand and teach the Indians the lained to them all the arts of peace, they would forestall the wars of cruel ,pounded to them the savagery that usually accompanied the settlement of le advent of the Sav- a new country; and continued, " It is surprising that ath, resurrection and our general government is so slow to discover that - I T F - ri

140 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA9 by establishing schools and sending out good men to their correctness-his f am instruct the Indians in the principles of the Christian religious probably appeali religion and the arts of civilized life, it will contribute caution to write to Clark ] to the safety and prosperity of all our frontier set- Clark at once wrote, " Tho tlers." Following the meeting of the Synod, there only object of their visi was a meeting of citizens, and a committee of two, should be published. probably residents of Jacksonville, Rev. Lucian The general object and Farnham and Mr. Julius Reed, were sent to St. Louis gon-now -Indian; to investigate not only the reported visit of the Nez established. Another po Perces, but to gather practical information of the disappointed that they cl country west of the Rocky Mountains. They re- does not have so much sun turned with the report that " it was a fact that the this, as General Clark, if Indians had visited General Clark; they remained faith, he did not feel we several months with General Clark, and visited all Bible, except under some the places of worship in the city. During their stay, not have been so likely to two of them died; in the spring the others returned not appear that they rece to their countrymen, very favorably impressed, and ing been instructed by Cl highly gratified with the kind treatment they re- urally feel disappointmen ceived. " feeling, by one of the ch George Catlin, a painter of Indian life, was also on lished. It is stated rathei a tour to the Rocky Mountains in the summer of 1833, it was taken down " by and went in the same company-the annual trapping office at the moment." expedition to the Rocky Mountains-with which the Spalding was told by on Nez Perces made their return home. He became ac- terward, the substance o quainted with them, and it is said painted their por- does not have an altog traits, but learned nothing of the object of their mis- where it was first publish sion. Returning east in the autumn he heard the timent was expressed by now numerous reports of their religious purpose, ably been much altered i] and was at first much disposed to discredit them. But eral translations. If it w, to assure himself before either denying or affirming it is not known who was I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 141

sending out good men to their correctness -his family and others being deeply 1rinciples of the Christian religious probably appealing to him-he took the pre- ized life, it will contribute caution to write to Clark himself as to their mission. y of all our frontier set- Clark at once wrote, " The story is true; that was the ting of the Synod, there only object of their visit." He then said that it and a committee of two, should be published. cksonville, Rev. Lucian The general object and design of this visit of Ore- ed, were sent to St. Louis gon-now Idaho-Indians, to St. Louis, is thus well reported visit of the Nez established. Another point, that they were deeply tical information of the disappointed that they could not receive the Book, y Mountains. They re- does not have so much support. It hardly could have " it was a fact that the this, as General Clark, if on account of his religious l Clark; they remained faith, he did not feel warranted in furnishing the al Clark, and visited all Bible, except under some religious instructors, would city. During their stay, not have been so likely to mention that fact. It does iring the others returned not appear that they received the book; though hav- avorably impressed, and ing been instructed by Clark himself; and might nat- zdnd treatment they re- urally feel disappointment. A speech expressing this feeling, by one of the chiefs, has been widely pub- f Indian life, was also on lished. It is stated rather vaguely for authority that as in the summer of 1833, it was taken down " by one of the clerks in Clark's ny-the annual trapping office at the moment." It is said by Mowry that untains-with which the Spalding was told by one of the Indians, years af- inhome. He became ac- terward, the substance of the speech. The speech s said painted their por- does not have an altogether genuine sound, and f the object of their mis- where it was first published is not stated. If the sen- e autumn he heard the timent was expressed by the Nez Perce it has prob- their religious purpose, ably been much altered in its manner, owing to sev- *dto discredit them. But eral translations. If it were made in his own tongue, ier denying or affirming it is not known who was the interpreter; the name of I __ r-

AN AMERICAN ST 142 THE GROWTH OF When I tell my poor the transcriber is not given, nor does it appear to snow, in the big council entered upon any government report. have been no word will be spoke However, as a speech that has been widely attributed young braves. One by to Oregon Indians it is worth inserting. The chief is out in silence. My per said to have ended an official call and supper to which they will go on the lo Clark had invited him on the eve of his return as fol- grounds. No white m lows: white man's book to m " 1 came to you over a trail of many moons from have no more words. " the setting sun. You were the friends of my fathers, It is stated by Mowi who have all gone the long way. I came with one eye attracted the eye of Cat partly opened, for more light for my people who sit ticity until informed 1 in darkness. I go back with both eyes closed. How object. It is not statE can I go back blind to my blind people? I made my seen. The image brouw way to you with strong arms, through many enemies of the conventional I and strange lands, that I might carry back much to braves, and old men, them. 1 go back with both arms broken and empty. desire of the Nez Per( The two fathers who came with me-the braves of thenticated by written many winters and wars-we leave asleep here by and so well known amc your great water. They were tired in many moons men that they sometim and their moccasins wore out. My people sent me to ing and giving packs c get the white man's Book of Heaven. You took me for ponies or furs, assi where you allow your women to dance as we do not ''the Book." ours, and the Book was not there. You took me The Methodist Chui where they worship the Great Spirits with candles, supplying the Indian and the Book was not there. You showed me the teachers. A vigorous images of good spirits and pictures of the good land General Conference b: beyond, but the Book was not among them. I am leyan Vniversity. Rel going back the long sad trail to my people of the dark about finding a man to land. You make my feet heavy with burdens of gifts, Jason Lee, a former p and my moccasins will grow old in carrying them. AN AMERICAN STATE 143 THE GROWTH OF When I tell my poor blind people after one more nor does it appear to snow, in the big council, that I did not bring the book, y government report. no word will be spoken by our old men or by our been widely attributed young braves. One by one they will rise up and go inserting. The chief is out in silence. My people will die in darkness, and all and supper to which they will go on the long path to the other hunting wve of his return as fol- grounds. No white man will go with them, and no white man's book to make the way plain to them. I il of many moons from have no more words. " ] friends of my fathers, It is stated by Mowry that it was this speech that .y. I came with one eye attracted the eye of Catlin, and he doubted its authen- ; for my people who sit ticity until informed by Clark of the Nez Perces' both eyes closed. How object. It is not stated in what publication it wag nd people? I made my seen. The image brought up by the speech is rather through many enemies of the conventional Indian, with his moons and fht carry back much to braves, and old men, and other allusions. Yet the rms broken and empty. desire of the Nez Perces for a worship directly au- vith me-the braves of thenticated by written revelation was very strong, e leave asleep here by and so well known among the trappers and mountain *etired in many moons men that they sometimes turned missionary, preach- My people sent me to ing and giving packs of gambling cards in exchange Heaven. You took me for ponies or furs, assuring the tribe that these were i to dance as we do not "the Book." t there. You took me The Methodist Church first took up the labor of it Spirits with candles, supplying the Indians of Oregon with religious *. You showed me the teachers. A vigorous appeal was made before the ictures of the good land General Conference by Wilbur Fiske, of the Wes- Lot among them. I am leyan University. Receiving encouragement he set -o my people of the dark about finding a man to send to the field, and wrote to ry with burdens of gifts, Jason Lee, a former pupil of his, but at that time a r old in carrying them.

I -A.L I

144 THE GROWTH OF missionary to the Indians in his own native town oI Staustead, Quebec. Lee was a tall, somewhat diffi- dent young man, raw boned and athletic, without the graces of cultivated society, but of a most earnest zeal, and capable of almost any labor and ready to encounter any hardship. He was at once interested in the proposition of Dr. Fiske, and repaired in the spring of 1833 to Boston. He was there received as a member of the New England Conference and or- dained by Bishop Hedding, and appointed as Super- intendent of a mission to Oregon. His nephew, Dan- iel Lee, and a lay member, Cyrus Shepard, were ap- pointed as associates. Opportunely for the mission, AVyeth was just returning from Oregon, and making ready for his second adventure across the continent, and providing for a transport of goods by sea in the brig " May Dacre." The missionaries decided to accompany him across the Plains, and to send their goods by his vessel. A more detailed account of the Methodist Mission, or colony, will be given later. It may be noted here. however, that Lee and his two assistants came safely REV. H. with Wyeth to the Snake River country, where the .4 Plonee Pmby Captain stopped to build Fort Hall. Here was met Thomas McKay, the omnipresent Hudson's Bay Company's leader wherever competition or danger was to be encountered. With McKay and Stewart, an English nobleman, Lee, and the scientists Nuttall and Townsend, and their respective parties, went on to Walla Walla. It seemed best here, although they THE GROWTH OF in his own native town oI ras a tall, somewhat diffi- I and athletic, without the I ;y, but of a most earnest t any labor and ready to I Ele was at once interested I Fiske, and repaired in the He was there received as gland Conference and or- i , and appointed as Super- tregon. His nephew, Dan- i Cyrus Shepard, were ap- portunely for the mission, from Oregon, and making iture across the continent, tort of goods by sea in the e missionaries decided to Plains, and to send their

of the Methodist Mission, ter. It may be noted here. two assistants came safely REV. ]. H. SPAULDING Vvwbyterlan YIwsawy of 1SM. River country, where the A Plouw Fort Hall. Here was met tnipresent Hudson's Bay rer competition or danger th McKay and Stewart, an d the scientists Nuttall and ective parties, went on to best here, although they

AN AMERICAN STATE 145 had in mind the object of establishing a mission to the tribe who had sent for them, in the Columbia Valley, to proceed to Fort Vancouver and to confer with Dr. McLoughlin where to plant their first mission. They left their horses at Fort Walla Walla, and being most courteously offered passage down the Columbia in a bateau of the Hudson's Bay people, intrusted them- selves in what seemed a frail craft for so powerful a stream, and after eleven days on the river, and one hundred and fifty-two days from the Missouri fron- tier, reached the fort. This was about the middle of September. They were received with the utmost kindness by Dr. McLoughlin and all the gentlemen at the fort, and were deeply impressed that here was a strong and pivotal center. By Dr. McLoughlin the arrival of the missionaries is thus noted. " The Rev. Jason Lee and Daniel Lee of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with three laymen, came overland from the States with Mr. Wyeth in 1834. They brought their horses and cattle with them, but their supplies came in the ' May Dacre. ' Messrs. Lee left the States with the in- tention of settling in the Flathead country as mis- sionaries to these Indians, but changed their minds and settled in the Willamette country, and as they left their cattle at Walla Walla, and they were rather weak after their long journey, they asked and ob- tained the loan of cattle from me." In another document-published by the Pioneer Association-he says, " In 1834, Messrs. Jason and [Vol. a] P- I I

146 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN E Daniel Lee, and Messrs. (Courtney M.) Walker and ber of the hearers ex P. L. Edwards came with Mr. Wyeth to establish a religion. Dr. McLou mission in the Flathead country. I observed to led the list in a subs them that it was too dangerous for them to estab- work along, amounthr lish a mission [there]; that to do good to the In- ied by a most kindl dians they must establish themselves where they closing " and they p] could collect them around them; teach them first to out whose assistance cultivate the ground and live more comfortably than infinite mercy He ma they do by hunting, and as they do this teach them per your pious endear religion; that the Willamette afforded them a fine The question of lc field, and they ought to go there, and they could get portance, but taking the same assistance as settlers." the field both to whit It is quite certain thus, that upon meeting with Mc- gon, the friendly attit Loughlin, and seeing the situation of the country, pany, whose chief fad their ideas as to the proper location of a mission un- their work; and the c( derwent a change. The needs of the establishments establish a settlemen at Vancouver and French Prairie appealed strongly youth might come an to their minds. John Ball, of the Wyeth party, who than to attempt evang had some education, had been engaged to teach a even in their own g school at Vancouver for the benefit of the children of follow McLoughlin's the factors and gentlemen there, and Solomon H. lishment but a short Smith, of the same party, had continued the school, seph Gervais, at Ch and had also opened a school on French Prairie, near Gray, an impartial ol the homes of Gervais and Labonte. Dr. McLough- was himself connecte( lin was very anxious that the school should be con- established later, says tinued, and proposed that Cyrus Shepard act in the brought on the "May capacity of teacher. Moreover much interest was felt his station, and his ma in hearing the missionaries preach, and an invitation taking is coupled on 6 was extended to hold religious services. With so man-no higher com] much power were the services conducted that a num- reach.

iI THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 147 irtney M.) Walker and ber of the hearers expressed an awakened interest in . Wyeth to establish a religion. Dr. McLoughlin himself, at a later service, intry. I observed to led the list in a substantial contribution to help the Dus for them to estab- work along, amounting to the sum of $130, accompan- to do good to the In- ied by a most kindly note signed by McLoughlin, hemselves where they closing " and they pray our Heavenly Father, with- ,m; teach them first to out whose assistance we can do nothing, that of His more comfortably than infinite mercy He may vouchsafe to bless and pros- hey do this teach them per your pious endeavors. " afforded them a fine The question of location was of the highest im- ere, and they could get portance, but taking into consideration the needs of s.Y.,, the field both to whites and natives in Western Ore- upon meeting with Mc- gon, the friendly attitude of the Hudson's Bay Com- uation of the country, pany, whose chief factor was so able to help or hinder ocation of a mission un- their work; and the conclusion that they must rather s of the establishments establish a settlement and school to which Indian airie appealed strongly youth might come and learn a Christian education, r the Wyeth party, who than to attempt evangelization among tribes nomadic en engaged to teach a even in their own grounds, they were induced to enefit of the children of follow McLoughlin's counsel, and located an estab- here, and Solomon H. lishment but a short distance above the farm of Jo- d continued the school, seph Gervais, at Chemaewae, on the Willamette. on French Prairie, near Gray, an impartial observer of this mission, as he abonte. Dr. McLough- was himself connected with the Presbyterian work e school should be con- established later, says that by October 6th the goods Frus Shepard act in the brought on the "May Dacre" were taken by Lee to r much interest was felt his station, and his manner of prosecuting his under- reach, and an invitation taking is coupled on Gray's page with that of Whit- ous services. With so man-no higher compliment being within Gray's s conducted that a num- reach. rI - _T1 ri~~_ hlT r-hi I - -lii

148 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S5

' Rev. Jason Lee," he says, " like Whitman with mary object of their e his old wagon, had undertaken a work he meant to Lee was doing an immb accomplish. His religion was practical. Work, ing, which led to com labor, preach and practice his own precepts, and continue the work in hi demonstrate the truth of his own doctrine. Religion and labor were synonymous Jason Lee came of an honor with him, and well did family. His father, Daniel I the noble Shepard, though a lay member of the mis- State was a wilderness. Nea sion and the church, labor and sustain him. During deep woods, was born his me Mr. Lee and his excellent w the winter of 1834-5, they were wholly occupied in almost fifteen years, and thei building their houses and preparing for the cultiva- after a few years, joined the I tion of the land for their settled Stanstead, in Canad own subsistence. Rev. Jason year 1800. Lee set the example. He held the plow with an In- ... . Of this parental dian boy to drive, in commencing his farming opera- 1803. His early training unc the wilderness was of the kin tions. The first year they produced enough for home manhood, physically and me consumption in wheat, peas, oats and barley, and verted in the twenty-third ye abundance of potatoes, with a few barrels of salt thereafter he continued at hih time the thought was growing salmon. " And the work of the first year is thus sum- for him to do. When this the marized: " Daniel Lee soon falls sick and Edwards ness that to resist it was to f plements of labor, and in the is dissatisfied. They both arrange to leave the coun- Academy at Wilbraham, Mass try in the 'May Dacre'; (but) Lee is advised to go to ... . His most intima the Sandwich Islands and Edwards is induced to un- was Osmon C. Baker (afterw drew the following picture of dertake an independent school at Champoeg, Shep- "He was a large, athletic yo ard toils on with his Indian and half native school. height, with a fully developed piety was deep and uniform a Mr. (Jason) Lee preaches and labors at the mission pure and exemplary." among the French, and at Vancouver." " Before and during his re, This is a picture of these young men from the had been deeply impressed wii of his life would be to live a United States, sent on the impulse of religious zeal, feeling remained after his reti with the first bloom of enthusiasm gone, and sick or gaged in teaching in the Stans dispirited, Baker had almost formed ph but still battling on bravely, although Under date of larch, 1831, he hardly at first reaching, or even touching, the pri- have not forgotten the red in THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 149

Is, " like Whitman with mary object of their effort. In this situation Jason :en a work he meant to Lee was doing an immense amount of enforced think- was practical. Work, ing, which led to comprehensive plans later how to his own precepts, and continue the work in his selected field. own doctrine. Religion Jason Lee came of an honorable and Christian, if not distinguished, with him, and well did family. His father, Daniel Lee, was born in Connecticut when that lay member of the mis- State was a wilderness. Near by, in a, log cabin, embowered in the id sustain him. During deep woods, was born his mother ...... After their marriage Mr. Lee and his excellent wife remained in their native State for Tere wholly occupied in almost fifteen years, and then removed to Rutland, Vt., and thence, 'eparing for the cultiva- after a few years, joined the band of hardy New Englanders that had settled Stanstead, in Canada East, about the beginning of the subsistence. Rev. Jason year 1800. Id the plow with an In- ... . Of this parentage Jason Lee was born in Stanstead in ,cing his farming opera- 1803. His early training under the strenuous exactions of a life in the wilderness was of the kind that builds a sturdy and independent oduced enough for home manhood, physically and mentally ...... Jason Lee was con- ;, oats and barley, and verted in the twenty-third year of his age. For two or three years thereafter he continued at his accustomed i a few barrels manual toil, while all the of salt time the thought was growing upon him that Cod had other business he first year is thus sum- for him to do. When this thought had become so deeply a conscious- falls sick and Edwards ness that to resist it was to fight against God, he laid down the im- plements of labor, and in the autumn of 1827 entered the Wesleyan ,range to leave the coun- Academy at Wilbraham, Mass. ) Lee is advised to go to - .. . His most intimate friend in school and ever thereafter Iwards is induced to un- was Osmon C. Baker (afterward a bishop)...... Mr. Baker drew the following picture of the man and his work while in school: ol at Champoeg, Shep- "He was a large, athletic young man, six feet and three inches in and half native school. height, with a fully developed frame and a constitution of iron. His piety was deep and uniform and his life in a very uncommon degree ad labors at the mission pure and exemplary." ancouver. " " Before and during his residence at Wilbraham, Mr. Lee's mind e young men from the had been deeply impressed with the feeling that the work and duty of his life would be to live and labor for the Indian tribes. This npulse of religious zeal, feeling remained after his return to Stanstead, and while he was en- isiasm gone, and sick or gaged in teaching in the Stanstead Academy. Himself aid Osmon C. Baker had almost formed plans for united labor in pagan lands. D on bravely, although Under date of March, 1831, he wrote to Mr. Baker as follows: ' I even touching, the pri- have not forgotten the red men of the West, though I am not yet

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150 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S

The American Board, which was a missionary or- Oregon Indians to rec ganization of both the Presbyterian and Congrega- they took the subject l tionalist denominations for sending missionaries to forward first and ex foreign lands, also took notice of the desire of the them before equiping educated minister of among them. 0, that I had someone like yourself to go with me and help me in the arduous work with whom I could hold sweet converse. and fifty-six years Or that I could be assured that I could embrace you in the wilds Rushville, N. Y., and and have you for a companion as long as the good Lord should have lected. Whitman waa need of us in the forests, I could cheerfully forego all the pleasure I receive from the society of friends here, tear myself from the em- too late to join the tr brace of my nearest and dearest relatives, and go (as John before our not until March, 1835 Lord) and prepare the way before you. But I am building castles reaching St. Louis, A in the air. No, no! That I fear can never be.' . . . . While waiting and wondering whereunto this strange thing would grow route arrived somev Mr. Lee received a communication from Dr. Fisk relative to his un- trappers they reache& dertaking the establishment of a mission among the people whose strange call had thus awakened the church. Mr. Lee after due con- 10th. Parker, who wi sideration consented to the proposition of Dr. Fisk provided he could esting notes of the to honorably detach himself from the service of the Wesleyan board, to which he had already offered himself. In due time all these ar- inserted in his journ rangements were satisfactorily made.-Rev. H. K. Hines. published suggestion, Rev. Jason Lee, of Stanstead, Canada East, a man of light hair, South Pass-which I blue eyes, fair complexion, spare habit, above ordinary height, a little stoop shouldered, with strong nerve and indomitable will, yet greater than had alreE a meek, warm-hearted and humble Christian, gaining by his affable the Green Mountains and easy manners the esteem of all who became acquainted with him. -W. H. Gray. Gray attributes as in Cyrus Shepard was a devoted Christian and a faithful laborer for man. the advancement of the objects of the mission and the general wel- At the rendezvous fare of all in the country. We have never learned that he had an enemy or slanderer while be lived in it. On his first arrival he 12th, they met with thE taught the Hudson's Bay school at Vancouver, consisting of children they soon were on the belonging to persons in the employ of the company, till the mission strongly urged to com buildings were ready, when lie gathered a large school of Indian and French half-breed children and was quite successful in teaching the a mission. As indict rudiments of an English education. much the younger me Mr. P. L. Edwards. also of Missouri, ..... But little is known of him; the inducements to become a permanent settler do not appear the following from PE in his case.-Tbid. here: THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 151 *hwas a missionary or- Oregon Indians to receive religious teachers. In 1834 )yterian and Congrega- they took the subject up, and decided to send two men ;ending missionaries to forward first and examine the field, and report to ce of the desire of the them before equiping a band. Samuel Parker, a well educated minister Ike yourself to go with me and of Massachusetts and New York, m I could hold sweet converse. and fifty-six years old, and Marcus Whitman, of uld embrace you in the wilds Rushville, N. Y., and a practicing physician, were se- as the good Lord should have *rfully forego all the pleasure lected. Whitman was then but thirty-three. It was ere, tear myself from the em- too late to join the trappers' caravan that year, and es, and go (as John before our not until March, 1835, a. But I am building castles did Parker begin his journey, never be.' . . . . While reaching St. Louis, April 4th. Whitman, by another is strange thing would grow route arrived somewhat in advance. Joining the n Dr. Fisk relative to his un- 4ion among the people whose trappers they reached the continental divide August urch. Mr. Lee after due con- 10th. Parker, who was a geologist, made many inter- of Dr. Fisk provided he could esting notes of the rvice of the Wesleyan board, topography, soil, rocks, etc., and If. In due time all these ar- inserted in his journal, published in 1838, the first Rev. H. K. Hines. published suggestion of a Pacific railway through the la East, a man of light hair, it, above ordinary height, a South Pass-which he says offered no difficulties rve and indomitable will, yet greater than had already been surmounted in passing istian, gaining by his affable the Green Mountains became acquainted with him. with railroad. This suggestion Gray attributes as in the first instance from Whit- an and a faithful laborer for man. mission and the general wel- iever learned that he had an At the rendezvous, which they reached August it. On his first arrival he 12th, they met with the Nez Perce Indians, with whom couver, consisting of children they soon were on the ;he company, till the mission most friendly terms, and were a large school of Indian and strongly urged to come to their country and establish te suc2essful in teaching the a mission. As indicating that Whitman, although . . .. But little is known much the younger man, was still the leading spirit, 'manent settler do not appear the following from Parker's journal may be inserted here: 1-_ -1 I

152 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SC

" The Nez Perce and Flathead Indians present an from fatigue and sicko interesting field for missionary labor, white for the Mountains, and at on harvest; and the indications of divine Providence in leave his body in the v regard to it are made plain by their anxiety to obtain disquietude in intrusti Christain knowledge. Taking the circumstances un- to the tumultuous cu der deliberate and prayerful consideration, in regard Wallula down to Vanc to these Indians, we came to the conclusion that, and of a formal and though many other important stations might be had an abundance of found, this would be one. So desirable did this object moment quail from I appear that Dr. Whitman proposed to return with the much valuable inform caravan, and obtain associates to come out with him tractate style and r( the next year with the then returning caravan, and churches of the tim establish a mission among the people, and by so doing toward spreading infc save at least a year in bringing the gospel among most substantial pe( them. In view of the importance of the object I read- Many of his historical ily consented to the proposal, and to go alone with the expressed in the most Indians the remainder of the exploring tour. Dr. could not but tend to Whitman, upon further consideration, felt some mis- research in the West. givings about leaving me, and feared that he should to elevate the Oregon be blamed by the Christian public. I expressed my of commercial values, desire that no disquietude should be felt for me." vations he accepted pt This shows Whitman to have been a man of sharp to New York. This a observation, quick to reach a conclusion, and disposed for Oregon, but as sui to carry his enterprise to the point of temerity. He as a very respectable I was entirely correct in surmising that he would be New England ministE blamed if upon the journey through the mountains step out and perform to the Columbia and Fort Vancouver Parker had sand miles all told, ai met with serious difficulty. As a matter of fact, this tions learned among t] elderly gentleman, who was much of a pedant, and his native region, fo heretofore unused to stirring events, suffered much wealth about to rise u THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 153 ead Indians present an from fatigue and sickness crossing the Salmon River ry labor, white for the Mountains, and at one time believed that he must )f divine Providence in leave his body in the wilderness; and even felt much their anxiety to obtain disquietude in intrusting himself in a slender canoe the circumstances un- to the tumultuous current of the Columbia from onsideration, in regard Wallula down to Vancouver. But although a pedant ,o the conclusion that, and of a formal and conventional type of mind, he tnt stations might be had an abundance of Yankee grit, and did not one Desirable did this object moment quail from his lonely task. He collected )osed to return with the much valuable information, and placing this in the 3 to come out with him tractate style and religious tone relished by the eturning caravan, and churches of the times, contributed very largely people, and by so doing toward spreading information of Oregon among the ring the gospel among most substantial people of the Eastern States. ce of the object I read- Many of his historical and scientific observations are md to go alone with the expressed in the most clear and direct language, and e exploring tour. Dr. could not but tend to interest the educated classes in leration, felt some mis- research in the West. It was a work tending greatly I feared that he should to elevate the Oregon question from the simple level ublic. I expressed my of commercial values. After completing his obser- uld be felt for me. " vations he accepted passage to Honolulu, and thence 7e been a man of sharp to New York. This was the conclusion of his work )nclusion, and disposed for Oregon, but as such Samuel Parker stands forth point of temerity. He as a very respectable figure, showing that the typical sing that he would be New England minister, as well as the trader, could ;hrough the mountains step out and perform a journey of some twenty thou- vancouver Parker had sand miles all told, and carry his habits of observa- s a matter of fact, this tions learned among the hills and around the lakes of nuch of a pedant, and his native region, for the benefit of the common- events, suffered much wealth about to rise upon the shores of the Pacific. 154 THE GROWTH OF

Whitman was altogether a different style of man, quick to adapt himself to circumstances; drinking with his hand from a stream and disposed to discard as unnecessary all but his butcher knife in observing his meals-somewhat to the disgust of Parker. He also adapted himself easily to the rude ways of the trappers, who greatly shocked the fine sense of Par- ker; and was very careful to bear his full part in the duties of the march, and to attend upon any men who might sustain injury. By " his off-hand, easy ways and manner of accommodating himself to circum- stances, and his kindheartedness, and promptness to relieve all who needed his professional skill, he won the esteem of all with whom he traveled." He was gladly allowed a place with Bridger on the return for the mission party that he intended to organize. He also so far won the confidence of the Indians that two sons of a Nez Perce chief were allowed to return East with him, with the object of learning the Eng- lish language and becoming teachers or interpreters to their people. Arriving safely at his own home, and making a HAIHAL favorable report to the Missionary Board, Whitman udd was commissioned to organize a party, and selected Rpd-eeM from *- Lfu of - ewd awu mlFb 4 Rev. H. H. Spalding and wife, and W. H. Gray; and Stan" on I& Smty M. consummating his marriage with Narcissa Prentiss, was ready to return with the trappers in 1836. Two days before reaching the rendezvous on Green River, they were met by a party of ten Nez Perce, among whom were Takensuates and Ish-hol-hol-hoats-hoats; THE GROWTH OF

a different style of manl,

.circumstances; drinking ~m and disposed to discard butcher knife in observing he disgust of Parker. He [y to the rude ways of the cked the fine sense of Par- to bear his full part in the oDattend upon any men who " his off-hand, easy ways idating himself to circum- ,tedness, and promptness to sprofessional skill, he won iom he traveled." He was th Bridger on the return for eintended to organize. He [ence of the Indians that two ief were allowed to return object of learning the Eng- lugteachers or interpreters

own home, and making a IUAL-H6TMLO8-8OT, THE LAWYXR s Real owefo teb No. leie& Board, Whitman smbsrve falWe Missionary 0mfroM "Li4fe Of GeMera lown L. SWM&" T1fte who aoeompu"ia Geuera ganize a party, and selected -0 *%Wne 4**ftu male by GOtav sobo. a se~Gie m4*vomm Wa treat Oai 0 i trip.. I wife, and W. H. Gray; and iage with Narcissa Prentiss., hthe trappers in 1836. Two ~rendezvous on Green River, rty of ten Nez Perce, among and Ish-hol-hol-hoats-hoats;

I.- - . -

AN AMERICAN STATE 155 the latter was the famous chief known later as the Lawyer, and at the feast held in their honor-to the whites rather a rude feast, but to the Indians, whose contribution to the viands was a piece of veni- son, a memorable event,-as he said afterward, his heart became one with the Suapies, or Americans. Lawyer's unswerving friendship, and that of his family, made this simple meal on the Sandy almost a national event. From the rendezvous to the Columbia at Old Fort Walla Walla the mission party was conducted by the band of Indians, and from Walla Walla they went by bateaux to Fort Vancouver to pay their respects to McLoughlin and to confer with him as to permanent location. On the way over the mountains Takensu- ates took special charge of Mr. Spalding and his wife, and succeeded in making so pleasing an impression that upon parting at Wallula Spalding promised that if he would be at the same spot on his return he would go with him to his country, and if found suitable es- tablish there a mission. At the rendezvous the missionaries had met Cap- tain Wyeth on his return East, who informed them of the disposition of the Hudson's Bay Company to crush out American opposition, but added," You have brought your wives along; if I do not greatly mistake the feelings of the gentlemen of the Hudson's Bay Company, they will be anxious to have their influence in teaching their own wives and children, and you will meet with a different reception from any other Amer- I -- -,-- - " I I - -

156 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S'

ican party that has gone into the country. " This pre- had with Lee. Anytl diction was not unverified. The entire party were furnished from his o'm charmed with the cordiality of their reception. The Returning up the cultivated farm, the trees growing, the garden, and Walla Walla Valley,, the splendid appearance of McLoughlin and Douglas of having teachers an gave them, as it had all who came in contact with fort was reached, upon w] life, an entirely new impression of Oregon. Mrs. him a location, in retu Whitman, whose grace and accomplishments had al- a school, teach them X ready been appreciated by the mountain men at the dustry, and religion. rendezvous, found here at Vancouver a society of the ably impressed with most perfect gentlemen; nor did she by any means charmed with this v ignore their native wives or half-caste children, sing- capabilities of the s( ing for them morning and evening. Whitman was toms for agriculture soon upon intimate terms with McLoughlin, and the unlimited range formed a friendship that lasted to the end of life. He of the Blue Mountal had formed the plan as he came down the Columbia to pasturage for thousa plant his station at the Dalles; desiring to have access he wished to perst to the river and sea for supplies from American place of their great ships that might enter the Columbia. From this, less ponies. however, he was dissuaded by McLoughlin, who in- Spalding was met, formed him that the D)alles Indians were a mongrel suates at Wallula, wi race, and that mission work among them would be into the Nez Perce coi hopeless. The Cayuses, who lived on the upper On the way thither hi waters of the Walla Walla and the Umatilla, and frequently high and r ranged over the Blue Mountains, and were closely Mountains and bord connected with the Nez Perces and the Flatheads, felt many misgivings were far better material. They were horsemen, equal and found the countr: to British dragoons, and though few comparatively of timber and badly in numbers were the dominant power in the Columbia ridges, he was broug] Valley. The question of supplies he treated as he wai, a stream meandi THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 157 ie country. " This pre- had with Lee. Anything that was needed would be rhe entire party were furnished ffom his own posts or mills. Etheir reception. The Returning up the river, Whitman examined the wing, the garden, and Walla Walla Valley, and found the Indians desirous Loughlin and Douglas of having teachers among them. An understanding me in contact with fort was reached, upon which the tribe formally allowed ion of Oregon. Mrs. him a location, in return for which he was to establish complishments had al- a school, teach them agriculture and white men's in- b mountain men at the dustry, and religion. He was by no means unfavor- couver a society of the ably impressed with the Cayuses, and was at once did she by any means charmed with this vast agricultural district. The lf-caste children, sing- capabilities of the soil of the creek and river bot- ening. Whitman was toms for agriculture were at once appreciated, and rith McLoughlin, and the unlimited range of the undulating plains and I to the end of life. He of the Blue Mountain foot hills gave promise for I down the Columbia to pasturage for thousands of cattle and sheep, which desiring to have access he wished to persuade the Indians to keep in )plies from American place of their great herds of comparatively worth- !olumbia. From this, less ponies. McLoughlin, who in- Spalding was met according to promise by Taken- dians were a mongrel suates at Wallula, with a train of ponies to take him imong them would be into the Nez Perce country, about 150 miles eastward. , lived on the upper On the way thither he was led over the immense and nd the Umatilla, and frequently high and rugged ridges that skirt the Blue sins, and were closely Mountains and border the intractable Snake. He *s and the Flatheads, felt many misgivings as he proceeded day after day, were horsemen, equal and found the country grow sterner and totally naked gh few comparatively of timber and badly watered. Finally, over the last power in the Columbia ridges, he was brought to a hill overlooking the Lap- )lies he treated as he wai, a stream meandering through a deep valley and

L 158 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ! bordered with timber. " Here, if anywhere in our sionaries would not be to rather fastidious. country," said the Nez Perces, " the land is good." Dr. Marcus Whitman, ol Hesitating still, in order to examine the locality more of easy, don't carehabits, and yet a sincere and ea carefully, and seeing that here was a well watered thought the second time, valley, of a deep black soil, with an abundance of tim- views when good reasons i ber for fuel, shelter, shade and building purposes, of an object, adhering to would think him fickle ar and that the surrounding uplands were covered with and generous to a fault, se a growth of the universal bunch grass, Spalding were around him; at tim( in conversation or argume was entirely satisfied, and to the great delight of the titioner, and generally sue Indian chief and his band, declared that he would spare habit, peculiar hair, make here his home. Returning then to WalluLla for white and a dark brown, s blue eyes, and a large mor his goods and Mrs. Spalding, they at once repaired Mrs. Whitman, former} to Lapwai, and began to erect buildings and also Steuben County, New Yorl manding appearance. Sh to teach the eager natives. Astonishing interest was plexion, and light blue ey( shown; the buffalo hunt was forgotten, and although and round. At the time s Spalding intimated that the tribe had better prepare life, she was considered a to converse with all she ] for winter, the chief said that nothing was now so im- cheerful. Firmness in he] portant as to learn the Book of Heaven, which had Indians, it was repulsive. comfort, and moved in th, been sent to them, and that God would provide for residence. She was a go their wants. The winter proving very mild and game well as that of her traveli remaining in the valley seemed to justify their simple sing, which she did with c the native songs without n faith, and probably in no mission of which we have Mrs. Spalding was the a record was there greater success frorm the begin- the name of Hart, of Onei medium height, slender ii ning. hair, blue eyes, rather da Rev. Samuel Parker, of Ithaca, New York, a man of good education a serious turn of mind, and refinement, and exceedingly set in his opinions of men and things. fact she was remarkable i eame to explore the country and report to the American Board as to to understand and convers the feasibility of establishing a mission among the Indians, one of they reached their station the missionaries of the American Board from the Sandwich Islands in water colors, and had having visited the coast in an American ship several years previous branches of domestic life; and made an unfavorable report on account of the fur trade influence an excellent meal at sho against American traders, giving the impression that Ameriean !nis- forward in. conversations THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 159 re, if anywhere in om r sionaries would not be tolerated in the country ...... Was rather fastidious. 3y "the land is good. " Dr. Marcus Whitman, of Rushville, Niew York, ...... A man tmine the locality more of easy, don't care, habits; that could become all things to all men, re was a well watered and yet a sincere and earnest man, speaking his mind before he thought the second time, . . . correcting and changing his h an abundance of tim- views when good reasons were presented, yet, when fixed in pursuit ad building purposes, of an object, adhering to it with unflinching tenacity. A stranger nds were covered with would think him fickle and stubborn, yet he was sincere and kind, and generous to a fault, seldom manifesting fear of any dangers that lunch grass, Spalding were around him; at times he would become animated and earnest he great delight of the in conversation or argument. In his profession he was a bold prac- titioner, and eclared that he would generally successful. He was above medium height, of spare habit, peculiar hair, a portion of each (separate hair) being ag then to Wallula for white and a dark brown, so that it might be called iron gray; deep they at once repaired blue eyes, and a large mouth.-WNT. H. Gray. Mrs. Whitman, formerly Miss Narcissa Prentiss, of Prattsburg, ct buildings and also Steuben County, New York, was a lady of refined feelings and com- tonishing interest was manding appearance. She had very light hair, light, fresh com- )rgotten, and although plexion, and light blue eyes. Her features were large, her form full and round. At the time she arrived in the country, in the prime of ibe had better prepare life, she was considered a fine, noble looking woman, affable and free iothing was now so im- to converse with all she met. Her conversation was animated and cheerful. Firmness in her was natural, and to some, especially the of Heaven, which had Indians, it was repulsive. She had been brought up in comparative -od would provide for comfort, and moved in the best religious society in the place of her residence. ig very mild and game She was a good singer, and one of her amusements, as well as that of her traveling companions, was to teach the doctor to to justify their simple sing, which she did with considerable success-that is, he could sing ;ion of which we have the native songs without much difficulty. Mrs. Spalding was the daughter of a plain, substantial farmer by ccess from the begin- the name of Hart, of Oneida County, New York. She was above the medium height, slender in form, with coarse features, dark brown hair, blue eyes, rather dark complexion, coarse [contralto] voice, of ork, a man of good education a serious turn of mind, and quick in understanding language. In b opinions of men and things. fact she was remarkable in acquiring the Nez Perce language, so as to the American Board as to to understand and converse with the natives quite easily by the time among the Indians, one of they reached their station at Lapwai. She could paint indifferently from the Sandw ich Islands in water colors, and had been taught, while young, all the useful ship several years previous branches of domestic life; could spin, weave, sew, etc.; could prepare mt of the fur trade influence. an excellent meal at short notice, was generally sociable, but not pression that Ameriean mis- forward in, conversations with gentlemen. With the native wom- I -

160 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN en Mrs. Spalding always seemed easy and cheerful, and had their tially from burning. . . unbounded confidence and respect. She was considered by the Indian home with many privation men as a brave, fearless woman, and was respected and esteemed the best preparation for hE by all. Though she was frequently left alone for days, her husband prived of the care and guid being absent on business, but a single attempted insult was ever eight years old. This los offered her ...... Then she gave a rebuff so thorough to the helping his mother. The i attempted, or contemplated, insult that to hide his disgrace the powers resulted not only in Indian fled from the tribe, not venturing to remain among them. In proved to be of the utmost fact a majority of the tribe were in favor of hanging the Indian, but reliance ...... He fir Mrs. Spalding requested that they allow him to live that he might in his native town, but sub: repent of his evil designs and do better.-W. H. Gray. of the Presbyterian church The voice of Miss Prentiss was of remarkable sweetness. She was was dismissed when he wei a graceful blonde, stately and dignified in her bearing, without a He received a good com particle of affectation. When preparing to leave for Oregon the under the direction of Ret church held a farewell service and the minister gave out the well David Page, of Rushville. known hymn: the ministry, but some ph3 HIe pursued a course of me Yes, my native land I love thee, lege at Pittsfield, Mass., All thy scenes I love them well; diploma. He practiced in Friends, connections, happy country returned to his old home M Can I bid you all farewell? to the work of his chosen pi however, were frustrated, a The whole congregation joined heartily in the singing, but before in a sawmill. This busine the hymn was half through, one by one they ceased, and audible sobs great work that fell to h were heard in every part of the great audience. The last stanza was gressive missionary and br sung by the sweet voice of M\Irs. Whitman alone-clear, musical and unwavering.-Mrs. Martha J. Lamb. Magazine American History, 1884. (Quoted by Mowry.) Dr. Marcus Whitman and Miss Narcissa Prentiss, two of the first missionaries sent out by the American Board beyond the Rocky Mountains, were united in marriage by the pastor, Rev. Leverett 1, Hull. Some who were present could never describe, without tears, the circumstances, and especially the incident of the bride singing the missionary hymn in a strong, clear voice after all others had broken down with emotion.-Newspaper Clipping. Mowry. I Dr. Whitman impressed me as a man of strong sterling character I and lots of push; but he was not a great talker.-J. S. Seeley; 1895; Ibid. 1;I Marcus Whitman was born in Rushville, N. Y., September 4, 1802. I He was descended from good New England stock, characterized by I both intellectual and moral strength. He came from a long-lived t family. It is related that when an infant he was saved providen- i I [Vol. 3] II I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 161 r and cheerful, and had their tially from burning ...... is boyhood was spent in a pioneer e was considered by the Indian home with many privations; but this life was such as to give him I was respected and esteemed the best preparation for heroic and manly deeds. He was early de- ft alone for days, her husband prived of the care and guidance of his father, who died when he was fle attempted insult was ever eight years old. This loss obliged him to take an active part in -e a rebuff so thorough to the helping his mother. The early exercise of his physical and mental hat to hide his disgrace the powers resulted not only in a strong, well developed body, but in what ng to remain among them. In proved to be of the utmost importance to him in after life, great self- vor of hanging the Indian, but reliance ...... He first united with the Congregational church ow him to live that he might in his native town, but subsequently he was member and ruling elder r.-W. H. Gray. of the Presbyterian church at Wheeler, N. Y., from which church he Emarkable sweetness. She was was dismissed when he went to Oregon. led in her bearing, without a He received a good common school education, and studied Latin ring to leave for Oregon the under the direction of Rev. Moses Lallock, of Plainville, and Rev. ie minister gave out the well David Page, of Rushville. It was his intention at this time to enter the ministry, but some physical ailment led him to study medicine. Ile pursued a course of medical study at the Berkshire Medical Col- love thee, lege at Pittsfield, Mass., from which institution he received his them well; diploma. He practiced medicine four years in Canada, and then happy country returned to his o0l home with the full intention of devoting himself trewell? to the work of his chosen profession in his native State. These plans, however, were frustrated, and he became part owner with his brother tily in the singing, but before in a sawmill. This business life prepared him still further for the e they ceased, and audible sobs great work that fell to him subsequently as a practical and pro- audience. The last stanza was gressive missionary and broad-minded patriot.-Mowry. man alone-clear, musical and Magazine American History, cissa Prentiss, two of the first can Board beyond the Rocky by the pastor, Rev. Leverett never describe, without tears, incident of the bride singing ear voice after all others had 'r Clipping. Mowry. in of strong sterling character at talker-J. S. Seeley; 1895; ville, N. Y., September 4, 1802. ngland stock, characterized by . He came from a long-lived infant he was saved providen- IVol. 3]

1j,

'l I f

CE

THE STRUGGL] CHAPTER V

THE STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE

--k "'

7 PON U 1 effe tice but is a into a new atmospl perature, as from work giving more Methodist mission, sermon preached al September 26, 1834. mixed the highest norance-American nese, Kanakas, half pardonable denomij justice, remarked: nificance-an uncon introduction of a no force-into the elei mold and character* little appreciated it. to vary the hitherto 1 revel, of revel and wearing alternation hearts resented them, ly have augured the the morning star. " It was simply thai other of its vast ace jected them upon Or( Ut PON pausing an instant to observe the effects of the decided movements no- ticed in the last chapter, one cannot but notice a change. The sensation is altogether different, as if passing into a new atmosphere; or, into a much raised tem- perature, as from winter to spring. In his recent work giving more particularly a narrative of the Methodist mission, H. K. Hines, describing the first sermon preached at Fort Vancouver by Jason Lee, September 26, 1834, to an audience " in which were mixed the highest intelligence and the deepest ig- norance-American, English, Scotch, Irish, Japa- nese, Kanakas, half-breeds and Indians"-has, with pardonable denominational fervor, but with great justice, remarked: " The scene had a strange sig- nificance-an uncomprehended import. It was the introduction of a new force-a moral and spiritual force-into the elements that had hitherto given mold and character to Oregon. ... The auditors, little appreciated it. To them it was only an incident to vary the hitherto unbroken monotony of trade and revel, of revel and trade, which had swung their wearing alternations until even savage and sordid hearts resented them. Even the preacher could hard- ly have augured the future of which this hour was the morning star. " It was simply that American life had opened an- other of its vast accumulation of motives and pro- jected them upon Oregon. This was in striking con-

-.L 166 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Sr formity with the law of social evolution observed, king of Salem," has though with much slower pace, in all previous his- form of society. Mele torical development. Nowhere is there an illustra- Someone to act as a ju tion of the operation of the course of social develop- mediary of peaceful ment more clearly shown than in the order in which quired to furnish moti American life-making a more or less harmonious borly, or neighborhoo juncture with European life somewhat in advance- Jason Lee was now br unfolded its phases in Oregon. It showed that it was mediately connected M a genuine embryo of civilization, in that it observed the American family. with undeviating fidelity the steps by which civiliza- Lee had more particul tion itself had arisen from primitive barbarism. -one whose enthusia Succeeding the period of simple dispersion, nobly things, and impart to represented in the person of Ledyard, and the period divine grace. That tb of adventure, begun with Gray, and closed with vealed truth, rather ti Wyeth, corresponding to the nomadic eras of primi- older religions, and th tive tribes, was added the period of fixed interests, a mediator between a introduced, as well shown, by Jason Lee. It was change his sentiment ai in conformance with high purpose, and indicative of sacred things to men. high destiny, that Ledyard failed, and that Wyeth larly the instincts of th failed; and their failure but led the embryo forward Prentiss, soon after lee speedily to meet a propitious hour for birth as a sorry she had not come commonwealth. Failure under the form of simple her of promising openi dispersion of energy, or under the form of nomadic, among the Pawnees or periodic forms, served but to hasten the form smiths, etc., with suffic under fixed and continuous industry, and gave these teach the Indians also. lower forms no interest or power to antagonize and by actual work with t destroy the higher form as it began to develop. and making Americai Some established form of worship, or religious cul- continually. Salvatioi ture, has ever been at the beginning of community home life, rather than life. The " priest after the order of Melchizedeck, nation of the will, was THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 167 cial evolution observed, king of Salem," has preceded even the patriarchal Ice, in all previous his- form of society. Melchizedeck was before Abraham. are is there an illustra- Someone to act as a judge of justice, and as an inter- ,ourse of social develop- mediary of peaceful relations, has ever been re- Lmin the order in which quired to furnish motives for people to live in neigh- ore or less harmonious borly, or neighborhood, relations. It was this that somewhat in advance- Jason Lee was now bringing to Oregon. Almost im- i. It showed that it was mediately connected with it was the introduction of tion, in that it observed the American family. This Whitman first brought. steps by which civiliza- Lee had more particularly the instincts of the priest a primitive barbarism. -one whose enthusiasm was to minister in holy Lmple dispersion, nobly things, and impart to others what he deemed to be Ledyard, and the period divine grace. That this was what he held to be re- Gray, and closed with vealed truth, rather than any rites or forms, as of nomadic eras of primi- older religions, and that he did not assume to act as eriod of fixed interests, a mediator between a soul and its Maker, did not by Jason Lee. It was change his sentiment as holding himself a minister of rpose, and indicative of sacred things to men. Whitman had more particu- failed, and that Wyeth larly the instincts of the home-maker. He wrote Miss led the embryo forward Prentiss, soon after leaving the frontier, that he was us hour for birth as a sorry she had not come the first year. He also wrote fer the form of simple her of promising openings for homes for her friends er the form of nomadic, among the Pawnees or Otoes, as farmers, black- )ut to hasten the form smiths, etc., with sufficient pay to make a home and idustry, and gave these teach the Indians also. Upon this line of evangelism, ower to antagonize and by actual work with the hands among the natives t began to develop. and making American homes, his thought dwelt rorship, or religious cul- continually. Salvation by community effort and eginning of community home life, rather than individual salvation by resig- order of Melchizedeck, nation of the will, was the feature of Christian ef- 168 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S fort that he understood. In Mrs. Whitman, however, This is somewhat i even more than in Whitman, was the finest type of as shown in the the home-maker. This, as intimated, was the feature Oregon; and it is like that made her objectionable to the Indians; but it mon Smith and the o made her the champion of the American home. With as well as McLoughli great feeling, and almost indignation, we find her tlemen at Fort Vanc( saying that the pioneers and missionaries ought not homes and families a; to sink, in their home arrangements, to the level of bands. Yet without the life around them; but lift it to their level. Mrs. marriages approxima Spalding gained her remarkable influence by ap- nomadic life, in the I proximating as nearly as she could in her ways to ment, than to the h the Indian life. This Mrs. Whitman would not do. Among the French se With the Lees, and with Whitman and Spalding lie or religious rite, and their wives, were added the interests that made principle of purchas community life and growth possible, and indeed in- satisfied with presents evitable, in Oregon. Alluding to this point in our feelings toward the a history, a recent writer has said: " At this time, feeling that she was I outside of the mission, there was no society in Ore- the whites, no doubt,, gon. Those who made any pretension to a life above purchase, as among I] that of the savages were mostly Canadian French, At Fort Vancouver I who, by long residence among the Indians, had be- ognized as equals, an, come in habit and life very much like those they had tribes than wives in so long associated with. They lived in the camp and They were not recogi on the trail, and the one had been a scene of bar- not allowed places at barity, and the other of carousal. They were living quarters with their c in a sort of concubinage with Indian women, whom their own housework they took to their homes or cast away at pleasure. It spending the most o is difficult to depict to those who have never seen articles of native skil this character of life,its utter degradation of thought, From such a begih feeling and action." long indeed by any p THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 169

Mrs.Whitman, however, This is somewhat an overstatement. There were, , was the finest type of as shown in the preceding volume, homes in timated, was the feature Oregon; and it is likely that Gervais, Labonte, Solo- to the Indians; but it mon Smith and the other settlers of French Prairie, American home. With as well as McLoughlin and the other factors or gen- idignation, we find her tlemen at Fort Vancouver, were as faithful to their missionaries ought not homes and families as the average of American hus- gements, to the level of bands. Yet without question these first homes and t it to their level. Mrs. marriages approximated more nearly to savage, or kable influence by ap- nomadic life, in the hunter stage of man's develop- Le could in her ways to ment, than to the home as we now recognize it. Whitman would not do. Among the French settlers marriage was not a pub- Whitman and Spalding lic or religious rite, but was chiefly on the Indian the interests that made principle of purchase-the father, or tribe, being possible, and indeed in- satisfied with presents, and whatever the white man's ng to this point in our feelings toward the woman, she herself carried the said: " At this time, feeling that she was his property. Among many of was no society in Ore- the whites, no doubt, who had thus acquired wives by retension to a life above purchase, as among Indians, the wife was again sold. ostly Canadian French, At Fort Vancouver the Indian wives were not rec- ag the Indians, had be- ognized as equals, and were rather hostages of their 3uch like those they had tribes than wives in the American understanding. *ylived in the camp and They were not recognized to meet socially, and were Ld been a scene of bar- not allowed places at the table. They had their own usal. They were living quarters with their children, where they carried on h Indian women, whom their own housework, eating their meals alone, and lst away at pleasure. It spending the most of their time in working fancy e who have never seen articles of native skill for their own decoration. degradation of thought, From such a beginning it would have been very long indeed by any process of development to bring M

AN AMERICAN SU 170 THE GROWTH OF quired for the develoi the embryo Oregon community up to the point of civilization attained among the Americans. In fact, tive ages. now that it is probable, that if left alone, and after McLough- In short, were re lin's death, without the direct influence of Ameri- started there tion. As long as the cans, this community would have approximated more have reasc to the native standard. Many of the half-breeds man would permanent homes. E would have preferred to join the nomadic Indians such permanent statiol and spend their lives in gathering furs than in set- men with Indian fain tled life and cultivating the ground. McLoughlin This w to a degree represented the head of a family, as also as a center. Rocky: a judge of justice and arbitration of friendship be- dezvous in the his party stopped to tween man and man; but was so overburdened with mentions particularly the cares of a great business, whose success depended and told the mi rather upon discouraging than encouraging settle- calls children, ment, that his settlement was more nearly a wild half-native got the plant than an offshoot of civilization. missionaries they would come and With the coming of the Lees, with Edwards and for the benel Walker, and of Whitman and Spalding, with their started fore necessarily be ex wives, and Gray, a new element of civilizing motives, and half-nativi if not absolutely new in kind, yet so much greater in white there was a working degree as to make an epoch, had appeared in Oregon. business, to I These were in strict accord with social evolution. the fur all else had hitherto though working with the energy of a high civil pre- controlled by potency of the American life of which they were as not be But besides this tl seed; and not waiting for the slow growth of a primi- not financially d tive development. In less than ten years was accom- try who had at plished what had been but most feebly begun in the nopoly, w preceding forty; and Oregon was full-born as a com- civil improvement, and striving to reac munity and commonwealth in a time which was but ing on their work. a hundredth, or perhaps a thousandth, part re- THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 171 unity up to the point of quired for the development of States in the primi- the Americans. In fact, tive ages. lone, and after MeLough- In short, now that religious and family life was rect influence of Ameri- started there were reasons for permanent occupa- have approximated more tion. As long as the Indians lasted, Lee and Whit- Ifany of the half-breeds man would have reasons for remaining and making in the nomadic Indians permanent homes. Even more, so long as they had thering furs than in set- such permanent stations the various wandering white Le ground. McLoughlin men with Indian families would gather about them head of a family, as also as a center. This was indicated even at the ren- ration of friendship be- dezvous in the Rocky Mountains, when Whitman and %s so overburdened with his party stopped to meet the Nez Perces. Gray whose success depended mentions particularly six mountain men who made han encouraging settle- calls and told the missionaries of their families of ras more nearly a wild half-native children, and concluded that when the 7ilization. missionaries got their homes and schools started sees, with Edwards and they would come and live near them. Missions thus id Spalding, with their started for the benefit of the Indians would there- nt of civilizing motives, fore necessarily be extended to meet the wants of the yet so much greater in white and half-native population. Here, therefore, ad appeared in Oregon. there was a working factor entirely independent of with social evolution. the fur business, to the level and interests of which rgy of a high civil pre- all else had hitherto been reduced, and which could of which they were as not be controlled by commercial motives. slow growth of a primi- But besides this there were now men in the coun- n1 ten years was accom- try not financially dependent upon the British mo- )st feebly begun in the nopoly, who had at heart moral and religious and was full-born as a com- civil improvement, who would be seeking further aid, a time which was but and striving to reach the best conditions for carry- thousandth, part re- ing on their work. They were Americans, and had - - -1 -I -- -

172 THE GROWTH OF'

the prejudice, at least, that such work as they de- sired to accomplish would be best done under Ameri- can influences. They would be likely to examine and endeavor to assert their rights under treaty rela- tions as Americans; and seek to get reinforcements of Americans. Here therefore there was a principle of growth which had almost unlimited force back of it. If the missionaries thus located at the call of the Indians should become pioneers of American immi- gration to Oregon, and should develop active and able men along this line, there was already on the eastern side of the continent an eager population, ready to break over the barriers of the Rocky Moun- tains. The activity of Jason Lee, and also of Dr. Whit- man, followed precisely this bent. American institutions began to strike root in Ore- HOME OF' DR. MARCU gon. Shepard maintained a successful school at SCENE Chemayway, of about forty pupils, half natives and Indians. This was interrupted and almost broken up by an epidemic, something like the fatal scourge originating on Sauvie's Island in 1829; and owing apparently to the same cause-the breaking of the ground and opening up an immense drift rick on the banks of the river. Daniel Lee was taken sick and went to the Sandwich Islands to recover. A number of the pupils died. One promising boy, Kenoteesh, was of the number; and Indian ideas are illustrated that his brother entered the mission school armed with the full intention of killing Shepard; that such work as they de- Ild be best done under Ameri- ould be likely to examine and ir rights under treaty rela- Ad seek to get reenforcements [ erefore there was a principlel most unlimited force back of thus located at the call of the pioneers of American immi- I should develop active and Le, there was already on the tinent an eager population, barriers of the Rocky Moun- l Lee, and also of Dr. Whit- this bent. began to strike root in Ore- | 1ODor MA6 W =TAN ANT WAUATPU AND ned a successful school at SCEN" OF thE ] "BS3CU Drty pupils, half natives and 3rrupted and almost broken ething like the fatal scourge Island in 1829; and owing cause-the breaking of the an immense drift rick on Daniel Lee was taken sick 7ich Islands to recover. A died. One promising boy, amber; and Indian ideas are er entered the mission school tention of killing Shepard;

--10 ---- 11 1. - I . - ''I -.=A

AN AMERICAN STATE 173

but being dissuaded by a friendly Indian he went in a rage to an unarmed band of natives and savagely butchered a number. A Cayuse Indian, by the name of We-lap-tu-lekt, was so impressed with the advan- tage of a school for his children that he moved his family to Chemayway, and had the satisfaction of seeing his children rapidly improving. But they were attacked with the fever and two died; when, with the other still sick, he fled in terror. The child died on the way, and with its body wrapped in a blanket he hastened on home, sounding the death wail. The idea was thus circulated among all the tribes that the Americans were everywhere " bad medi- cine." Notwithstanding these discouragements Lee gave an encouraging account of the work, and in July, 1836, a reenforcement from the East, of eight persons, sent by water, arrived in May, 1837. These were Dr. Elijah White, physician, and wife; Alan- son Beers and wife, Miss Anna Maria Pittman, Miss Susan Downing, and Miss Elvira Johnson. In Sep- tember of the same year there was another regnforce- ment, of Rev. David Leslie and wife, Rev. H. K. W. Perkins and Miss Margaret Smith. In the following winter Jason Lee made an exploring tour to the Umpqua, with the idea of extending the mission to the Southern Oregon Indians. In March of the next year, 1838, he established a mission at the Dalles, stationing there Daniel Lee, now returned, and Mr. Perkins. In July of 1837, Cyrus Shepard and Miss Downing were married, as planned before Shepard

I OF THE GROWTH AN AMERICAN SJ 174 THE GROWTH OF would give up the bus came to Oregon. At the same time Jason Lee and frankness I Miss Pittman, somewhat to the surprise of all, were with equal only because all othe also married. closed to him; he coi Mention has already been made of Ewing Young, only market in the tern who came with Hall J. Kelley, and had settled in the picturesque grassy valley of the , garded as objectionab] illustratir which enters the Willamette but a short distance be- ness; and, this without reimburse low French Prairie, though on the opposite side. He By this letter LeE had remained here in defiance of the interdiction pressed with Young a upon him of the Hudson's Bay Company, but was man to the communit3 regarded as rather an outcast of society. By the to sacrifice a bad busi missionaries, who did not wish to incur the displeas- might interest him in ure of the Hudson's Bay Company, he was little no- manifest a need of ca ticed, and was, in fact, perhaps so proud in his bear- has been noticed in th ing as to place them at a distance. Lee had visited the pioneer of the cat Kelley more or less while he was at Vancouver, but lent cattle to tt evidently did not think it wise to be identified with had sionaries. But it se( his movements. With Young was now associated Carmichael, one of the California party; and having the Americans in the obtained some of Wyeth's old vats from Sauvie's pressive, or at least Island, proposed to distill liquor, for which the old they wanted cattle of E trappers and mountain men, as well as the Indians, ferred with Young He was the had an appetite. When the project of distilling be- fornia. upon whom Lee fell came known Lee took immediate steps to have it dis- through so great an 1 continued, and the manner in which he did so was to go if Lee would s( very admirable. He wrote Young a note, calling his sionary did. As stat attention to the unlawful and highly dangerous na- books of the compan: ture of his project; that neither life nor propert~y at Fort Vancouver, would be safe if the Indians were led to intoxication, requested, E and proposed to pay him in full for his outfit if he Loughlin THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 175 game time Jason Lee and would give up the business. To this Young replied ) the surprise of all, were with equal frankness that he contemplated distilling only because all other sorts of business had been n made of Ewing Young, closed to him; he could neither buy nor sell at the ley, and had settled in the only market in the territory; but if distilling was re- of the Chehalem Creek, garded as objectionable he would relinquish the busi- e but a short distance be- ness. and, illustrating his native pride, would do on the opposite side. He this without reimbursement. iance of the interdiction By this letter Lee was undoubtedly much im- * Bay Company, but was pressed with Young as a strong and probably useful cast of society. By the man to the community. Finding that he was willing rish to incur the displeas- to sacrifice a bad business he began to think how he ompany, he was little no- might interest him in a good one. There was already aps so proud in his bear- manifest a need of cattle owned by the settlers. As istance. Lee had visited has been noticed in the last volume, McLoughlin was ie was at Vancouver, but the pioneer of the cattle industry in Oregon, and he vise to be identified with had lent cattle to the settlers, including the mis- ang was now associated sionaries. But it seemed to Lee, and especially to ornia party; and having the Americans in the country, that this was an op- old vats from Sauvie's pressive, or at least repressive, arrangement, and iquor, for which the old they wanted cattle of their own. Lee therefore con- L, as well as the Indians, ferred with Young about getting cattle from Cali- project of distilling be- fornia. He was the only man, as stated by Gray, liate steps to have it dis- upon whom Lee felt that he could rely to carry in which he did so was through so great an enterprise. Young was willing Young a note, calling his to go if Lee would secure the funds. This the mis- id highly dangerous na- sionary did. As stated by Gray, he found from the either life nor property books of the company who of the settlers had credit were led to intoxication, at Fort Vancouver, and going personally to Mc- i full for his outfit if he Loughlin requested, and even insisted, that amounts so;;; - ___ -__

176 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. for the purpose of the cattle company be forwarded giving free passage. on their orders. This was a very bold move, and mission and McLough there is reason to believe what has been asserted, the money required in that it was opposed indirectly by the Hudson's Bay contributing chiefly ti Company at the outset. stock. The statements Great assistance was received at this point from interest on this point. Captain William A. Slacum, who had been sent as London people: " Th special agent by the United States Government, to the Willamette Valley examine the Oregon country and report to Wash- sea with Mr. Slacum to ington. He had come to the Sandwich Islands and turned in 1837 with 251 had there hired the brig " ," and proceeded In the document pub to the Willamette. Of his object Dr. McLoughlin Association, he gives a does not speak very highly, and regarded him as lit- ing: " In 1836 we fo tle better than a spy, saying: " In the fall (of 1836) company to go to Cali] Mr. Slacum came in a vessel from Oahu, which he the stock for the Hudsc hired for that purpose. On arriving he pretended purchasing a larger num that he was a private gentleman, and that he came ing 500 or 1,000 was i to meet Messrs. Murray and their companions, who cattle cheaper. Those 4 had left the States to visit the country. But this put it in the stock; th( did not deceive me, as I perceived who he was, and drivers at one dollar a his object, and by the report of his mission, pub- actual cost. Mr. Slacu lished in the proeedings of the Congress of the Unit- tered vessel, gave then ed States, I found my surmises were correct." place to San Francisco Slacum visited almost every house in the Willam- lected to conduct the pa ette Valley and took an account of the numbers of came with Messrs. Lee, the inhabitants and productions, and upon learning now a lawyer of Califoi of the cattle company offered free passage to Cali- They bought, I think, fornia on the " Loriot." It is said by Gray that he of cattle, which cost eig advanced all the money the mission wished on their In the Willamette the stock, taking mission drafts on their board; besides broken-in oxen they ha [Vol. 31 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 177 attle company be forwarded giving free passage. By Hines it is said that the was a very bold move, and mission and McLoughlin furnished practically all ve what has been asserted, the money required in the enterprise; the settlers rectly by the Hudson's Bay contributing chiefly their services in driving the stock. The statements of McLoughlin are of much received at this point from interest on this point. He says in his account to the cum, who had been sent as London people: " This year (1836) the people of ited States Government, to the Willamette Valley formed a party, and went by intry and report to Wash- sea with Mr. Slacum to California for cattle, and re- ) the Sandwich Islands and turned in 1837 with 250 head." Loriot," and proceeded In the document published by the Oregon Pioneer his object Dr. McLoughlin Association, he gives a more particular account, say- Lly, and regarded him as lit- ing: " In 1836 we found the means of forming a ing: " In the fall (of 1836) company to go to California for cattle. I took half ressel from Oahu, which he the stock for the Hudson's Bay Company, so that by On arriving he pretended purchasing a larger number (as the expense of driv- mntleman, and that he came ing 500 or 1,000 was the same) it would make the and their companions, who cattle cheaper. Those of the settlers that had means 'isit the country. But this put it in the stock; those that had none engaged as perceived who he was, and drivers at one dollar a day, to be paid in cattle at report of his mission, pub- actual cost. Mr. Slacum, who came here in a char- )f the Congress of the Unit- tered vessel, gave them a gratis passage from this rmises were correct." place to San Francisco. Mr. Ewing Young was se- every house in the Willam- lected to conduct the party. Mr. P. L. Edwards, who account of the numbers of came with Messrs. Lee, of the Methodist mission, but [uctions, and upon learning now a lawyer of California, was appointed treasurer. fered free passage to Cali- They bought, I think, about seven hundred head It is said by Gray that he of cattle, which cost eight dollars per head rendered. ;he mission wished on their In the Willamette the settlers kept the tame and Sfts on their board; besides broken-in oxen they had belonging to the Hudson's [Vol. 3] 178 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SU Bay Company, and gave their California wild cattle Young also was willing in the place; so they found themselves stocked with of oversight without tame cattle that cost but eight dollars per head; and giving a summary of t the Hudson's Bay Company, to favor the settlers, munity to stock itself v took calves in place of the grown up cattle, because industry, says of Youn the Hudson's Bay Company wanted them for beef. tIle expedition would h; These calves would grow up before they were re- other man in Oregon. quired. " tary was Philip L. E( This undoubtedly represents McLoughlin in the in the diary kept on I true light; all his feelings were with the settlers, plained and lamented and once being convinced that their project was to tered. In the struggh go through, he aided them, and made the company a and wild mountain trai party in obtaining the beef animals that were needed to faint. On one oc( for supplying ships. He mentions also rather drily seemed to close the way how the settlers got the best of the bargain by re- Edwards' diary that Y turning wild California animals and calves for the you are a philosopher, E well-broken oxen that he lent them; but this was Edwards was fain to clearly by his own connivance, and only one of the mountain men whom c shrewd ways in which he managed to beat his com- irritating tasks. The pi pany, and even himself. The big steers and grow- honor adequately the ing calves were better for beef than the tough old wealth-building by this oxen -so he reasoned. emergency they acceptE There is another interesting point here. Mc- heavy burden. They ni Loughlin was willing to take stock in a company asked rewards. "I headed by Ewing Young-whom he had once refused The other members of admittance at his fort door. This indicates both that and Edwards, are give he was convinced that the charges against Young Hauxhurst, James 0 '1 were untrue, and that he was willing to be reconciled Calvin Tibbitts, John T to and trust him. Edwards was added, to quiet any Canadians, De Puis an( lurking suspicion of Young; which shows that scribed is stated by Mr, THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 179 their California wild cattle Young also was willing to accept a reasonable amount ad themselves stocked with of oversight without taking offense. Mrs. Victor, ,ight dollars per head; and giving a summary of this effort of the embryo com- any, to favor the settlers, munity to stock itself with the means of independent Le grown up cattle, because industry, says of Young: " It is doubtful if the cat- any wanted them for beef. tle expedition would have been a success under any v up before they were re- other man in Oregon. The financial agent and Secre- tary was Philip L. Edwards, of the mission, who, esents McLoughlin in the in the diary kept on his journey, continually com-- gs were with the settlers, plained and lamented over the hardships encoun- [ that their project was to tered. In the struggle with wild cattle, wild men, l, and made the company a and wild mountain travel, Edwards was often ready f animals that were needed to faint. On one occasion, when ' Alp on Alp ' mentions also rather drily seemed to close the way before them, it is recorded in best of the bargain by re- Edwards' diary that Young said to him: ' Now, if mimals and calves for the you are a philosopher, show yourself one.' But poor b lent them; but this was Edwards was fain to leave philosophizing to the vance, and only one of the mountain men whom custom had hardened to their managed to beat his cora- irritating tasks. The pen of the historian can hardly The big steers and grow- honor adequately the part played in the common- ir beef than the tough old wealth-building by this class of men. In every great emergency they accepted the post of danger or the resting point here. Mc- heavy burden. They neither shrank from peril nor take stock in a company asked rewards. II -whom he had once refused The other members of the company, besides Young r. This indicates both that and Edwards, are given as W. J. Bailey, Webley ae charges against Young Hauxhurst, James O'Neil, Lawrence Carmichael, vas willing to be reconciled Calvin Tibbitts, J ohn Turner, George Gay, and two ds was added, to quiet any Canadians, De Puis and Ergnotte. The stock sub- Dung; which shows that scribed is stated by Mrs. Victor as $2,500; $500 be- -. nil I I

180 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S

ing subscribed by Jason Lee, which was advanced under the Canadian E by Slacum; $900 by McLoughlin, and $1,100 by the Hudson's Bay justice settlers. But adds that Daniel Lee gives the amount obtaining any redress as $2,8801. with the company, or That American sentiment was developing rapidly, tion the few AmericE and perhaps prematurely, is shown by a memorial restive, and unless at prepared and sent by Jason Lee, but little more than diction with the Cana a year after the cattle company was organized. After and American credits a residence of three years in Oregon, Lee had so far country, there was liti studied the situation as to conclude that he had no to come and man his: longer one, but two missions, in this territory. The Pondering over ti first was still to the Indians; and that should be with his associates,he performed by means of stations planted in their return East and secui tribes as they receded. The other was to the settle- also exert what influe ments of whites and half natives, and this should be of American j urisdix performed by strengthening the central mission. which the United Stt To carry out the policy that he now saw necessary, memorial was prepar would require still larger force, quite a portion of cated and was placed which must be lay members and settlers. He saw, of Jason Lee and P. too, that the restrictions under which the mis- sisted," as remarked sionaries and the few American settlers then in the This memorial begai country, were held, in common with the French Can- settlers of the Col adians, would not be borne by American residents. that the " settlement t The cattle monopoly had been broken, but the trade beyond expectation; E monopoly remained just the same. There was no general resources of tl market except such as the Hudson's Bay people af- vite and support a larg forded; prices were on an artificial, or prescribed, more arable land than rather than a natural basis; there was no money, ex- facilities for trade ac cept Hudson's Bay paper and accounts at their store; India, and the Pacific I and there was no law or execution of justice, except commerce: coffee and THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 181 a Lee, which was advanced under the Canadian statutes, as administered by the Loughlin, and $1,100 by the Hudson's Bay justices of the peace; nor any way of Daniel Lee gives the amount obtaining any redress of grievances that might arise with the company, or its agents. Under this condi- Lent was developing rapidly, tion the few Americans already in the country felt y, is shown by a memorial restive, and unless at least an equal American juris- son Lee, but little more than diction with the Canadian, and American enterprise apany was organized. After and American credits and money be allowed in the 's in Oregon, Lee had so far country, there was little hope of inducing Americans to conclude that he had no to come and man his mission stations. ions, in this territory. The Pondering over these conditions, and advising idians; and that should he with his associates, he at length decided that he should r stations planted in their return East and secure a large reenforcement; and The other was to the settle- also exert what influence he could to gain some sort natives, and this should be of American jurisdiction in that part of Oregon aning the central mission. which the United States should claim as hers. A that he now saw necessary, memorial was prepared along the lines above indi- ~r force, quite a portion of cated and was placed in his hands. It was the work bers and settlers. He saw, of Jason Lee and P. L. Edwards; " doubtless as- us under which the mis- sisted," as remarked by Hines, " by Leslie." merican settlers then in the This memorial began by speaking of themselves as rnmon with the French Can- " settlers of the Columbia River "; representing rue by American residents. that the " settlement begun in 1832 " had prospered I been broken, but the trade beyond expectation; and that the soil, climate, and the same. There was no general resources of the territory were such as to in- Le Hudson's Bay people af- vite and support a large population; there was much an artificial, or prescribed, more arable land than had usually been represented; is; there was no money, ex- facilities for trade across the ocean to China and and accounts at their store; India, and the Pacific Islands, gave promise of a rich execution of justice, except commerce: coffee and sugar growing in the Sand- 182 THE GROWTH OF wich Islands would soon create a demand for the l I products of Oregon, such as beef and flour. These, they believed, afforded strong reasons " for the Gov- ernment of the United States to take formal and speedy possession." The need of such assumption I: of authority they conceived to be chiefly because their present relations with the Hudson's Bay Company could not indefinitely continue. " Our social inter- course has thus far been prosecuted, " they said, " with reference to the feelings of dependence on the Hudson's Bay Company, and to their moral influ- ence. Under this state of things we have thus far VA prospered, but we cannot hope that it will continue. " The reason was, that as population increased sup- plies would be drawn from other sources. The popu- lation would not be dependent upon the company, and would not respect its authority to enforce good order and public peace. They alluded to Oregon as the country of their adoption, and its future inter- ests were identical with their own. They conceived t: that they were " the germ of a great State"; and J ZtI that upon the character of the immigration which was sure to come depended their own future welfare and that of their posterity. " The natural resources tig of the country, with a well judged civil code, will in- vite a good community; but a good community will I LEW1,1id

hardly emigrate to a country which promises no aIe protection of life or property." They desired to encourage the hardy and enterprising pioneer of the West. rather than the unprincipled adventurer from THE GROWTH OF create a demand for the as beef and flour. These, Mng reasons " for the Gov- tates to take formal and need of such assumption to be chiefly because their Hudson's Bay Company inue. " Our social inter- prosecuted," they said, ings of dependence on the and to their moral influ- things we have thus far ope that it will continue. " population increased sup- other sources. The popu- 3nt upon the company, and ithority to enforce good 'hey alluded to Oregon as tion, and its future inter- Leir own. They conceived a of a great State"; and )f the immigration which I their own future welfare " The natural resources judged civil code, will in- but a good community will mtry which promises no izFiRlTAD LINN perty." They desired to Enterprising pioneer of the Principled adventurer from

AN AMERICAN STATE 183 Botany Bay, or Polynesia, or South America, to make Oregon a home. Without an American author- ity in the land, they argued further, good relations with the Indians could not continue. Whenever a division between the American settlers and the Hud- son's Bay Company should occur, the Indians, who depended for trade upon the Hudson's Bay people, would become ill-affected toward the Americans. They concluded: " We do not presume to suggest the manner in which the country should be occupied by the Govern- ment, nor the extent to which our settlement should be encouraged. We confide in the wisdom of our na- tional legislators, and leave the subject to their can- did deliberation; and your petitioners will ever pray. " This was signed by every male member of the Willamette mission, ten in number; by seventeen American residents of the valley; and by nine Can- adians; making thirty-six in all. This was couched in terms of great caution and not calculated to give offense even to the Hudson's Bay people; but was still unmistakable in its significance that they in- tended to make here an American community. This was taken east and presented to Linn, of Missouri, January 28, 1839. Before measures could be consummated it was nec- essary to give notice of the withdrawal of joint oc- cupancy; and as this could not be done without ex- ecutive as well as congressional action, Linn's meas-

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184 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI ure amounted to no more than an agitation; but as by Lee, and proved a p such served a most useful purpose. If it were his said: " It is believed intention, or if he had succeeded in forcing his gov- ernment of the Unite( ermnent bill to a conclusion, and had then fixed the in respect to this terri extent of American jurisdiction, it would have in- of the settlers, most : evitably made the line that of the Columbia River. to the mission will rem Great Britain would then have yielded nothing fur- the country after the ther, and the United States would have contended their services. Hence for nothing more. ours, in connection wi But besides this memorial Jason Lee succeeded in there, is the commenc interesting many of the frontier people, whom he ment of the country. I wished to make Oregon pioneers, in this country, and ily seen that we need t at least one party was organized at once. Proceed- government for our p ing also to the East and to Washington he secured a " First, we need a g large reenforcement-known in mission annals as that the possession of " the great reenforcement." While ostensibly and improvements we makE so far as spirit and intent of the missionaries were These settlements will concerned, it was a missionary enterprise, it was se- the government domai cretly encouraged and aided by the United States Indian title ever be exti Government; an appropriation of $5,000 for fur- expect therefore that I thering the colony being made from the secret serv- in this arduous work ice fund. This would indicate that the friends of this matter. Oregon at the capital did not believe that the time " Secondly, we need was ripe for forcing the question in public, but rather of the government am sought to encourage American settlement until there to regulate the interco was enough American force on the ground to deter- other, protect them ags mine the limits of American occupation and rightful lations of the Indians authority. against the aggression A short communication to Caleb Cushing, in re- " To secure these o sponse to an inquiry, shows the line of thought urged much of a military for( THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 185

than an agitation; but as by Lee. and proved a practical line of operation. He A purpose. If it were his said: " It is believed that if the United States Gov- eceeded in forcing his gov- ernment of the United States takes such measures ion, and had then fixed the in respect to this territory as will secure the rights ,diction, it would have in- of the settlers, most of those who are now attached .at of the Columbia River. to the mission will remain as permanent settlers in have yielded nothing fur- the country after the mission may no longer need Ites would have contended their services. Hence it may be safely assumed that ours, in connection with the other settlers already 'ial Jason Lee succeeded in there, is the commencement of a permanent settle- frontier people, whom he ment of the country. In view of this it will be read- oneers, in this country, and ily seen that we need two things at the hands of the ganized at once. Proceed- government for our protection and prosperity. ) Washington he secured a First, we need a guaranty from our government )wn in mission annals as that the possession of the land we take up, and the t." While ostensibly and improvements we make upon it, will be assured to us. t of the missionaries were These settlements will greatly increase the value of mary enterprise, it was se- the government domain in that country, should the ded by the United States Indian title ever be extinguished. And we cannot but riation of $5,000 for fur- expect therefore that those who have been pioneers made from the secret serv- in this arduous work will be liberally dealt with in dicate that the friends of this matter. not believe that the time " Secondly, we need the authority and protection Lestion in public, but rather of the government and laws of the United States ican settlement until there to regulate the intercourse of the settlers with each ce on the ground to deter- other, protect them against the aggressions and pecu- m occupation and rightful lations of the Indians, and to protect the Indians against the aggressions of the white settlers. to Caleb Cushing, in re- " To secure these objects it is not supposed that s the line of thought urged much of a military force will be necessary. If a suit-

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186 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S able person should be sent out as a magistrate and wide a hearing. Wil governor of the territory, the settlers would sustain Thomas McKay were his authority.... at Wilbraham, where " You are aware, Sir, that there is no law in that The party assemble country to protect or control American citizens. And force in Oregon num to whom shall we look, to whom can we look, for the was by the bark " La establishment of wholesome laws to regulate our in- ing. The company v fant, but rising, settlements, but to the Congress of and wife; Rev. J. H. our own beloved country? The country will be set- York; Rev. Gustavu, tled, and that speedily, from some quarter; and it see; Rev. Alvin Wall depends very much upon the speedy action of Con- esee; Rev. W. H. Kc gress what that population shall be, and what shall Rev. J. P. Richmond, be the fate of the Indian tribes in that territory. It Illinois; Ira L. Babe may be thought that Oregon is of little importance; New York; George but, rely upon it, there is the germ of a great State. 'dren, steward, New We are resolved to do what we can to benefit the wife, farmer, New Y country, but we throw ourselves upon you for pro- farmer; L. H. Judsoi tection. " inetmaker; J. L. Pa: The Cushings, of Newburyport, Mass., were al- blacksmith; James 0] ready interested in commerce to Oregon, the brig ilton Campbell, wife " Maryland " being fitted out in 1839, succeeding A. Clark, teacher; 3 Jason Lee's letter of January 16th, of that year, and Miss Almira Phillil was despatched under Captain John H. Couch. teacher; Miss Orph Accompanying Lee were two Indian youths, who Thomas Adams, 1ndi attracted much attention and did much to heighten boys died in New Yor] interest at the many missionary meetings held in the The " Lausanne " Methodist churches at New York, Boston, Phila- ber 9, 1839; and enter delphia, and Baltimore; and at other points. Never June 13th, of the s& before had the cause of Oregon, now presented in natives was laid out both its missionary and its political needs, had so new stations were loc THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 187 sent out as a magistrate and wide a hearing. With Lee, ry, the settlers would sustain also, the three sons of Thomas McKay were conducted and placed in school at Wilbraham, r, that there is no law in that where Lee had been educated. The party assembled for 'ntrol American citizens. and the increased missionary force in Oregon numbered, all to whom can we look, for the told, 51; the voyage was by the bark " Lausanne, some laws to regulate our in- " under Captain Spald- ing. The company were the nents, but to the Congress of following: Jason Lee and wife; Rev. J. H. Frost, ry? The country will be set- wife and one child, New York; Rev. Gustavus Hines, wife , from some quarter; and it and child, Gene- see; Rev. Alvin Waller, on the speedy action of Con- wife and two children, Gen- esee; Rev. W. H. Kone and Ltion shall be, and what shall wife, North Carolina; Rev. J. P. Richmond, n tribes in that territory. It M.D., wife and four children, Illinois; Ira L. regon is of little importance; Babcock, M.D., wife and one child, New York; George is the germ of a great State. Abernethy, wife and two chil- 'dren, steward, New York; W. what we can to benefit the W. Raymond, and wife, farmer, New York; H. B. Brewer, ourselves upon you for pro- and wife, farmer; L. H. Judson, wife and three children, cab- inetmaker; J. L. Parrish, ewburyport, Mass., were al- wife and three children, blacksmith; James Olley, rmmerce to Oregon, the brig and wife, carpenter; Ham- ilton Campbell, wife and child, sted out in 1839, succeeding carpenter; Miss C. A. Clark, teacher; Miss Maria nuary 16th, of that year, and T. Ware, teacher; Miss Almira !aptain John H. Couch. Phillips, teacher; Elmira Phelps. teacher; rere two Indian youths, who Miss Orpha Lankton, stewardess; and Thomas Adams, Indian boy. n and did much to heighten (One of the Indian boys died in New York.) ;sionary meetings held in the The " Lausanne " sailed New York, Boston, Phila- from New York, Octo- ber 9, 1839; and entered the Columbia and at other points. Never May 21, 1840. June 13th, of the same year, the work f Oregon, now presented in among the natives was laid out upon a broad I its political needs, had so scale, and three new stations were located, being at Clatsop, at Nis-

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188 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S] qually and on the Umpqua. The members were as- about the first of May. signed as follows to their work: Jason Lee, super- sons. Not one of thee intendent; J. P. Richmond, Nisqually; J. H. Frost, ther west than St. La Clatsop; Gustavus Hines and W. H. Kone, Umpqua; hardships and danger Daniel Lee and II. K. W. Perkins, the Dalles; David they were engaged. r Leslie, Willamette; Alvin F. Waller, Willamette ham. . . . Their Falls; W. H. Willson, Nisqually; H. B. Brewer, Dragoons,' and they the Dalles; Dr. Babcock, the Dalles; Dr. Elijah Mrs. Farnham, bearin White, and the others, farmers or mechanics, were Grave.' It should be assigned to the Old Mission, where requirements of pulse to this immigra business also placed George Abernethy and Miss lecture delivered by R Lankton. of 1838. Soon after tl Mention has already been made of a lecture given of the 'Oregon Dragoc by Jason Lee, at Peoria, Ill.; and that as a result a was informed that it 1 company was organized here to go to Oregon and standard and take pa raise the American flag. This, as the first band of Ugnited States and driv Americans to start from the East for this territory pany; and being aske for the single purpose of settlement and occupation, nineteen men, sufficient is of unusual interest. At a time when every man ' But, captain, part of counted as a host, and at the final scratch the Ameri- do you think they wil cans were found to have none to spare, the results II men? ' ' Oh, yes; th of what seemed at the time as little more than a dare- I they do, by , we'll devil adventure of rather wild young men, proved "The Santa }e roa of utmost advantage. To this party belonged Rob- or Platte road, by the a ert Shortess, Joseph Holman, Sidney W. Smith, Thompson, who arrive( Amos Cook, Francis Fletcher and R. L. Kilbourne. After a considerable nm Following is a condensed account from an unusually serious quarreling, anc interesting sketch by Robert Shortess, one of the falling in with a Santa party: " This company was organized at Peoria, mistook the dragoons f DlI., early in 1839, and started on its western journey reached Bent's Fort. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 189 ua. The members were as- about the first of May. It consisted of nineteen per- r work: Jason Lee, super- sons. Not one of these persons had ever been fur- ad, Nisqually; J. H. Frost, ther west than St. Louis, or knew anything of the and W. H. Kone, Umpqua; hardships and dangers of the expedition in which Perkins, the Dalles; David they were engaged. They were led by T. J. Farn- 'in F. Wailer, Willamette ham. . . . Their leader dubbed them ' Oregon Nisqually; H. B. Brewer, Dragoons,' and they carried a flag, presented by k, the Dalles; Dr. Elijah Ij Mrs. Farnham, bearing the motto, ' Oregon or the armers or mechanics, were - Grave.' It should be mentioned that the first im- ion, where requirements of pulse to this immigrant movement was given by a orge Abernethy and Miss lecture delivered by Rev. Jason Lee, in the autumn of 1838. Soon after the writer met with the captain en made of a lecture given of the 'Oregon Dragoons,' at Independence, Mo., he Ill.; and that as a result a was informed that it was the intention to raise the here to go to Oregon and standard and take possession in the name of the This, as the first band of United States and drive out the Hudson's Bay Com- the East for this territory pany; and being asked if he considered his force, settlement and occupation, nineteen men, sufficient, he replied,' Oh, yes; plenty.' Lt a time when every man ' But, captain, part of your force are Englishmen; he final scratch the Ameri- do you think they will fight against their country- none to spare, the results men? ' ' Oh, yes; they will not turn traitors; if as little more than a dare- they do, by -, we'll shoot 'em.' wild young men, proved " The Santa F'6 road was preferred to the usual, this party belonged Rob- or Platte road, by the advice of A. Sublette and Phil. liman, Sidney W. Smith, Thompson, who arrived from the Rocky Mountains. " ,her and R. L. Kilbourne. After a considerable number of adventures and some ccount from an unusually serious quarreling, and the desertion of a part, and Jert Shortess, one of the falling in with a Santa Fe wagon train, which at first was organized at Peoria, mistook the dragoons for a band of Comanches, they ted on its western journey reached Bent's Fort. The narrative proceeds:

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190 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST)

" We remained at Bent's Fort about one week, dur- known in Oregon and I ing which time a division of the party was effected, and Meek being about t and a division of the property held in common. their furs and lay in a Three-T. J. Farnham, Sidney Smith and 0. A. trade, the writer was inm Oakley-were distributed to themselves, and W. soon as the snow melted Blair and Joseph Wood chose to go with them. They snow fall having occurr went under the guidance of a trapper named Kelly, ney, having about thre, following the Arkansas. The rest of us, now re- meat. Two hunters, Cr, duced to eight, followed the same river about sixty promising to bring in a miles, thence north to South Platte, which we reached in the evening, but retur at the spot where Denver now stands; thence down per and remained with 1 the river to St. Vrain's Fort, where we halted to scanty breakfast, and lo await the arrival of a party bound for a trading post then proceeded on our on Green River. Here we were detained six weeks. mountains covered wit * .. At length the expected party arrived, and we Henry's Fork. During renewed our journey, following the Cache la Pouch, which was taken along a crossing the Black Hills to Laramie, up the same vation. . . . Continue nearly to its source, thence to North Platte; thence down the same to Soda across the divide separating the waters of the Atlan- to Port Neuf and Snake tic from the Pacific. We struck a small stream Hall on the evening of tl known as St. Vrain's Fork, down which we journeyed Fort Crockett; and wei to its junction with Little Bear River, an affluent of Ermatinger. .. . Af Green River, traveling some distance down Bear freshment Newell and N1 River; thence over a barren desert, and entered supplies, set out on their Brown 's Hole, a fertile and pleasant valley on Green writer was now left eni River. . . . In Brown's Hole we stopped at Fort society, exposed to the i Crockett, a trading post owned by Thomas Craig Hudson's Bay Company and St. Clair, where were several traders and trap- dullness of his appreheT pers, among whom were Dr. Robert Newell and Jo- person connected with t seph L. Meek, who have since become pretty well undue advantage of the THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 191

's Fort about one week, dur- known in Oregon and Washington. .. . Newell )n of the party was effected, and Meek being about to start for Fort Hall to sell property held in common. their furs and lay in a supply of goods for winter Sidney Smith and 0. A. trade, the writer was invited to accompany them. As ed to themselves, and W. soon as the snow melted on the low ground [an early chose to go with them. They snow fall having occurred], we started on our jour- a of a trapper named Kelly, ney, having about three days' provisions of dried . The rest of us, now re- meat. Two hunters, Craig and Mitchell, went ahead, the same river about sixty promising to bring in a supply of meat to our camp uth Platte, which we reached in the evening, but returned empty-handed, took sup- *r now stands; thence down per and remained with us until morning, shared our 3 Fort, where we halted to scanty breakfast, and left to return no more. We rty bound for a trading post then proceeded on our way up Green River, over wve were detained six weeks. mountains covered with snow, to the mouth of aected party arrived, and we Henry's Fork. During the day we killed a wolf, 1lowing the Cache la Pouch, which was taken along as a final resort against star- s to Laramie, up the same vation. . .. Continued our journey to Bear River, ace to North Platte; thence down the same to Soda Springs; from thence north ing the waters of the Atlan- to Port Neuf and Snake River, and arrived at Fort We struck a small stream Hall on the evening of the eleventh day from leaving k, down which we journeyed Fort Crockett; and were hospitably received by F. e Bear River, an affluent of Ermatinger. . .. After a few days' rest and re- some distance down Bear freshment Newell and Meek, having purchased their arren desert, and entered supplies, set out on their return to Green River. The nd pleasant valley on Green writer was now left entirely alone as to American 's Hole we stopped at Fort society, exposed to the injustice of the much-abused owned by Thomas Craig Hudson's Bay Company; but, owing perhaps to the e several traders and trap- dullness of his apprehension, is not aware that any Dr. Robert Newell and Jo- person connected with them attempted to take any since become pretty well undue advantage of the situation; but, on the con- W_- I, - - I 1. .

192 THE GROWTH OF trary, were friendly and hospitable, and disposed to assist him in prosecuting his journey-Mr. Er- At"LeAA&MMI& matinger especially so. Nearly all the men were gone on the headwaters of the Missouri on a buffalo hunt; consequently times were dull, and the pros- pect of my proceeding on my journey was not fa- vorable, as the expedition to Vancouver would not be ready in less than a month. However, Mr. Ermat- inger agreed to send what fur he had in charge of a Canadian named Sylverty and myself, assisted by two natives. I gladly availed myself of the offer, and we set out on our journey of 500 miles to Walla Walla. Winter had set in, and the prospect was any- thing but cheering. . . . At length we descended to the Umatilla, where we found a mild spring tem- perature and the earth covered with an abundance of grass, green as in May." .. . Here [at Fort Walla Walla], which they reached the tenth day from Boise, the writer being informed that it was too late in the season to cross the Cascade Mountains, went to Dr. Whitman's mission, where he continued to work till spring. . . . "He (Whitman) had been REV. GUS A P'loueer successful to a considerable extent in inducing the Methoe Indians to cultivate the soil and adopt the habits of civilization; and would no doubt have continued suc- cessful if his benevolent, self-sacrificing labors had not been thwarted . . . The few natives with whom I became acquainted during my residence at Waiilatpu, the name of the station, I found quite amenable to moral suasion when supported by a dis- THE GROWTH OF hospitable, and disposed to ing his journey-Mr. Er- Nearly all the men were f the Missouri on a buffalo ,s were dull, and the pros- n my journey was not fa- i to Vancouver would not be ath. However, Mr. Ermat- it fur he had in charge of a ty and myself, assisted by iled myself of the offer, and ney of 500 miles to Walla a, and the prospect was any- . At length we descended 7e found a mild spring tem- covered with an abundance Y. .." . Here [at Fort y reached the tenth day from nformed that it was too late ie Cascade Mountains, went ion, where he continued to REV. GUSTAVUS HES " He (Whitman) had been A Ploneer Metho4at Uemo ry 18fI. able extent in inducing the soil and adopt the habits of io doubt have continued suc- t, self-sacrificing labors had - .. The few natives uainted during my residence of the station, I found quite on when supported by a dis-

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AN AMERICAN STATE 193

position to use coercion as a last resort. In this they only manifest that they are human. " I remained at the station until the 12th of March, 1840, when I left for the Willamette. I set out soli- tary and alone, and continued so until I arrived at the Indian village below Walla Walla, when I over- took an Indian chief of the Deschutes village, with whom I traveled to the Dalles. The weather was windy and cold and the air darkened by the drifting sand, and on the day of arrival at the Deschutes it snowed during the most of the day and became bitter cold in the evening. The weather continuing cold and stormy, I remained at the Indian village during the next day and was hospitably treated by the chief and his people. ... On the second morning, the sun shining clear and bright, I set forward for the mission, 15 miles distant, escorted by the chief and four or five of his people. I arrived about noon, and met a kind reception from Rev. H. K. W. Perkins, in charge. I also found at the mission a Mr. Ben. Wright, from Texas, and a young man by the name of Dutton, both of whom had crossed the plains the year previous." . .. With Wright and Dutton the journey was resumed, and after a hard scramble in the early part of the season through the Cascade Mountains and the forests of the Clackamas, they reached French Prairie about the middle of April, stopping at the house of Calvin Tibbitts and C. J. Hubbard, settlers from Wyeth's party. Shortess eontinues: [vol. 3]

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194 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN a " The writer spent a few days with the settlers, is not known at pre( whom he found enjoying the comfort of plenty, and but " many years " apparently content with their situation. It was the from allusions, hov middle of April; the fields of wheat promised an quently to the public; abundance of the staff of life; the prairies were cov- or about thirty years ered with rich pasture, surrounded by groves of tim- one thing the chara ber, and dotted over by herds of cattle and horses, tracted to Oregon; : cropping the rich food so bountifully provided for student of Latin an( them. The ranges of mountains in the distance, with above a perspicaciou the snowy peaks seeming to pierce the clouds, alto- general kindliness of gether formed a prospect of beauty and sublimity he does not forbear never to be forgotten. ' And,' I said, ' if there's tions, after the style c peace to be found in the world a heart that is humble ly unjustly egotistic might hope for it here.' I arrived at the mission on particularly, howeve the 18th of April, 1S40. It being Saturday, I re- mission station thith mained at the mission until Monday. I then went to feted traveler heade( work for A. O'Neil, for whom I continued to labor come; Whitman's, PI until the latter end of June, when, having finished ing not only cities ol his work, I went to work at the mission. The wages might find work. T] for farm work were one dollar a day and board. The himself, did not fort settlement at that time extended from the Butte about the missionari [Butteville] to the Methodist mission, about ten Shortess, often broke miles. There were then remaining in the country or showed their disre six men, who came here in the employ of the Ameri- worse, sought to con can Fur Company in 1812; viz.: William Cannon, missionaries were lab an American; Joseph Gervais, Etienne Lucier, An- ings, respected their toine lRevoir, Michel La Framboise and Labonte, hearty, though often Canadian Frenchmen, all thriving, well-to-do farm- was, however, well th ers." commonwealth all soi This narrative of Shortess has very high value; it *Wm. M. Chance says abo THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 195

days with the settlers, is not known at precisely what time it was written, comfort of plenty, and but " many years " before its publication in 1896 ;' ir situation. It was the from allusions, however, we should judge subse- of wheat promised an quently to the publication of Gray's history in 1870; a; the prairies were cov- or about thirty years after the events. It shows for unded by groves of tim- one thing the character of men who were first at- ds of cattle and horses, tracted to Oregon; Shortess being well educated, a ountifully provided for student of Latin and English classics, and, as seen tins in the distance, with above a perspicacious writer. It illustrates also the pierce the clouds, alto- general kindliness of the Indians, at whom, however, f beauty and sublimity he does not forbear to cast rather slighting reflec- nd,' I said, ' if there's tions, after the style of the all-sufficient and frequent- Id a heart that is humble ly unjustly egotistical western wanderer. It shows rrived at the mission on particularly, however, that wherever there was a t being Saturday, I re- mission station thither the weary and weather-buf- AIonday. I then went to feted traveler headed, and found comfort and wel- 3m I continued to labor come; Whitman's, Perkins' and the " Mission," be- 1, when, having finished ing not only cities of refuge, but places where men the mission. The wages might find work. This class of men, like Shortess xr a day and board. The himself, did not forbear to drop slighting remarks bended from the Butte about the missionaries and their work; or, unlike List mission, about ten Shortess, often broke in rudely upon their services, maining in the country or showed their disregard for the Sabbath; or, still le employ of the Ameri- worse, sought to corrupt the Indians for whom the viz.: William Cannon, missionaries were laboring; yet, in their better feel- tis, Etienne Lucier, An- ings, respected their endeavors and gave them a ramboise and Labonte, hearty, though often rudely expressed, support. It riving, well-to-do farm- was, however, well that into the fibers of the young commonwealth all sorts of material should go; not has very high value; it *Wm. M. Chance says about a year before Shortess' death.

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196 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Q one man that arrived, apparently, coming amiss in ent manner, which et the work that was to be done. morous sobriquets b As to the residue of the party, which had divided the pioneers of that d in the Rocky Mountains, some went to New Mexico, many truly sterling but the majority crossed the divide from the Ar- eventually a wealthy kansas to the South Platte and waited six weeks for a of the leading familie guide. One, Charles Gates, left for New Mexico; As to Farnham, h Robert Moore went into winter quarters at St. and spent some time, Vrain's Fort. Oakley and Woods met here a man couver; " but instead named Richardson, who had guided Rev. J. S. Griffin says Shortess, " and t and Asahel Munger, and their wives, a party of mis- pany out-of-doors, a sionaries, to Fort Hall; but by him were so dis- clothes and a passagE couraged by unfavorable reports of the Willamette took a final leave o1 Valley, as to return east with him. Farnham, the though his company , leader, kept two men, Smith and Blair, as far as in rather a farce, as Walla Walla, but finally quarreled with Smith, and served Oregon in his the already divided " Dragoons " were still further his ability; getting x subdivided. Blair struck out for the Lapwai mis- History " of Califori sion on the Clearwater, finding employment in Spald- to cast a romantic in ing's mill, but afterward came to the Willamette, and still further educatin went to California. Smith came on alone, reaching country just over the the mission in a state of semi-starvation and nudity, Four more of the b, and made such a singular impression upon the in- Holman, Ralph L. Ki mates that he took offense at the somewhat dubious came through to Ore treatment accorded, and went soon to the Chehalem quarters in February, Valley, where he lived with Ewing Young until the mild weather, but w( latter 's death the next year. He acquired much Mountain snow storm property in horses and cattle, and became one of the reach Fort Hall-the i " stalwarts" among the independent Americans. was not until summer He was a man of large words, and somewhat vehem- and there they had so THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 197 rently, coming amiss in ent manner, which earned for him, as one of the hu- D. morous sobriquets bestowed by their friends upon )arty, which had divided the pioneers of that day, a grotesque cognomen. His me went to New Mexico, many truly sterling qualities, however, made him he divide from the Ar- eventually a wealthy man, and the founder of one id waited six weeks for a of the leading families of Oregon. , left for New Mexico; As to Farnham, he also reached the Willamette, winter quarters at St. and spent some time at the mission, and also at Van- Woods met here a man couver; " but instead of raising the American flag, "I guided Rev. J. S. Griffin says Shortess, " and turning the Hudson's Bay Com- ir wives, a party of mis- pany out-of-doors, accepted the gift of a suit of ut by him were so dis- clothes and a passage to the Sandwich Islands, and ports of the Willamette took a final leave of Oregon. " Nevertheless, al- ith him. Farnham, the though his company of Oregon Dragoons ultimated th and Blair, as far as in rather a farce, as Shortess treats it, Farnham arreled with Smith, and served Oregon in his generation, and according to )ons " were still further his ability; getting up on. his return a " Pictorial but for the Lapwai mis- History " of California and Oregon; serving thus ng employment in Spald- to cast a romantic interest over the territory, and ae to the Willamette, and still further educating the western people in the came on alone, reaching country just over the divide. ai-starvation and nudity, Four more of the band, Francis Fletcher, Joseph impression upon the in- Holman, Ralph L. Kilbourne and Amos Cook, also it the somewhat dubious came through to Oregon. They left their winter at soon to the Chehalem quarters in February, being tempted forth by the Ewing Young until the mild weather, but were soon caught in a Rocky ar. He acquired much Mountain snow storm, and required forty days to e, and became one of the reach Fort Hall-the usual time being ten days. It independent Americans. was not until summer that they reached Vancouver, Is, and somewhat vehem- and there they had so youthful an appearance that

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198 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE McLoughlin was almost disposed to send them home CHJ for runaway boys. But those American boys, hard- ened by summer and winter in the mountains, soon AMERICAN ARRIVALS, showed that they were men. They became among the PLANS F( most resolute and energetic of pioneers, and their names are most worthily perpetuated in their de- scendants. They went on in June to the mission, and soon found homes of their own; Fletcher and Cook taking places at the fords of the Yamhill, between what are now the towns of La Fayette and Dayton. As showing the literary vein of Shortess, and also his somewhat misanthropic disposition, he closes his sketch, after alluding to the " great reinforcement, and the hopes excited thereby," for great moral im- provement in the territory, and failure to realize all that was expected, with the well-known stanza:

"Poor race of men," said the pitying spirit, "Dearly ye pay for your primal fall; Some flowers of Eden ye still may inherit, But the trail of the serpent is over them all." *AMERICAN STATE osed to send them home CHAPTER VI *e American boys, hard- in the mountains, soon AMERICAN ARRIVALS, PERIOD OF ENTERPRISE AND They became among the PLANS FOR IMMIGRATION of pioneers, and their erpetuated in their de- June to the mission, and wn; Fletcher and Cook ,f the Yamhill, between a Fayette and Dayton. in of Shortess, and also isposition, he closes his " great reinforcement, 7,1 for great moral im- nd failure to realize all well-known stanza: he pitying spirit, rimal fall; ill may inherit, at is over them all."

i AVING it H |somewl the eff( with t: those i through their efforts, chapter to trace the ent4 Americans, who had arn partly by attraction, bu start enterprises of their the influences that were ly operating to transfor an industrial state of s4 to the American type, v logue of American vess4 ventures. This will take In March, of 1829, a voy," from Boston, und entered the Columbia R Hudson's Bay vessel " was wrecked on the bar. the ship, observed the c sands, reaching the harl boat to the rescue of th unable to save them. k and was of assistance i dians to terms. From ti remained one to become was Felix Hathaway, v mouth of the Chehaleni HTAVING in the previous chapter given somewhat particular attention to the efforts of Americans connected with the Methodist mission and those induced to come to Oregon through their efforts, it will be necessary in this chapter to trace the enterprises of the miscellaneous Americans, who had arrived partly by accident and partly by attraction, but once here were disposed to start enterprises of their own. In order to follow all the influences that were at first very slowly but sure- ly operating to transform Oregon from a hunting to an industrial state of society, and from the British to the American type, we should insert here a cata- logue of American vessels that still arrived as mere ventures. This will take us back a few years. In March, of 1829, arrived the schooner " Con- voy," from Boston, under Captain Thompson. She entered the Columbia River at the same time as the Hudson's Bay vessel " William and Anne," which was wrecked on the bar. The " Convoy," following the ship, observed the catastrophe, and avoided the sands, reaching the harbor in safety; sending also a boat to the rescue of the crew of the lost craft, but unable to save them. She proceeded to Vancouver and was of assistance in bringing the Clatsop In- dians to terms. From this American schooner there remained one to become a citizen of Oregon; this was Felix Hathaway, who made a home near the mouth of the Chehalem in the Willamette Valley. -,iii IF' __mfhi

202 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SU About the same time the ship " Owyhee " was fitted In return for a kindly out by a Boston firm, Bryant and Sturges, under of beef to the ship, L Captain Dominis, and arrived at the Columbia in Loughlin some peach April, of 1829. An interesting item in this connec- land, Juan Fernandez tion is the manner in which Dominis made a safe planted, came the first I entrance. He spent two weeks in taking soundings The "Sultana, " the i and buoying out the channel. The buoys were sim- the Columbia, had beei ply sticks of stove wood, anchored by means of spun owned by Joseph Bakex yarn, and weighted sufficiently to be held in place. under charter of Capt, He made the entrance, hitherto unknown to him, in of James Lambert, ma perfect safety, and moved up the Columbia as far reach the Columbia, be: as Deer Island. This suggests that if Astor had Society Islands. From placed his ship " Tonquin " in the hands of a man were cast the captain a as intelligent and resourceful as Dominis, he might selves after almost inc not have lost his vessel. The same care would have was also upon the " Sul brought the " Tonquin " through without loss of life was also commander of on the Columbia bar. continued seafaring, hi The object of the " Owyhee " was to take salmon, brig " John Davis," wi of which in two seasons fifty hogsheads were se- ]urnbia in 1849, stopping cured, salted, and sold in Boston for ten cents a ing seventy-five passenj pound-certainly a very slight return on the ven- left the sea and settled a ture. It can scarcely be doubted that Dominis was to the Sandwich Islands, not well liked on the Columbia. It is said that the ly departed on a cruise i Indians tore up his fish traps, and that they attrib- which he never returne( uted the malady that broke out on the island near his port of his fate ever af ship to " bad medicine," thrown by him into the son married into the roy water. He was treated kindly as a man by the Hud- In 1839 John Cushin son's Bay Company, but certainly not forwarded by became interested in 0 them in his business. Upon the " Owyhee " was a Jason Lee and others of man then young, Francis A. Lamont, of Bath, Me. Oregon, determined to eni THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 203 ip " Owyhee " was fitted In return for a kindly turn and present of a quarter rant and Sturges, under of beef to the ship, Lamont was glad to give Mc- ived at the Columbia in Loughlin some peach pits saved at the Chilean Is- ting item in this connec- land, Juan Fernandez; and from these, carefully 3h Dominis made a safe planted, came the first peach trees in Oregon. eeks in taking soundings The "Sultana," the next vessel to be fitted out for al. The buoys were sim- the Columbia, had been a Smyrna packet, and was chored by means of spun owned by Joseph Baker & Sons, of Boston. She was ntly to be held in place. under charter of Captain Wyeth, and in command Lerto unknown to him, in of James Lambert, master. She did not, however, up the Columbia as far reach the Columbia, being wrecked on a reef of the ,gests that if Astor had Society Islands. From the situation into which they " in the hands of a man were cast the captain and his crew extricated them- Ful as Dominis, he might selves after almost incredible sufferings. Lamont 'he same care would have was also upon the " Sultana." Lambert, afterward, Lrough without loss of life was also commander of the " May Dacre. " Lamont continued seafaring, his last venture being in the Lee " was to take salmon, brig " John Davis," with which he came to the Co- fifty hogsheads were se- lurnbia in 1849, stopping at San Francisco and bring, Boston for ten cents a ing seventy-five passengers to Portland. He then flight return on the ven- left the sea and settled at St. Helens. Dominis went oubted that Dominis was to the Sandwich Islands, engaging in trade, and final- mbia. It is said that the ly departed on a cruise in his vessel " Diana," from aps, and that they attrib- which he never returned, nor was any trace or re- out on the island near his port of his fate ever afterward seen or heard. A thrown by him into the son married into the royal family of Hawaii. dly as a man by the Hud- In 1839 J ohn Cushing, of Newburyport, Mass., ,rtainly not forwarded by became interested in Oregon, and learning from on the " Owyhee " was a Jason Lee and others of the growing community in A. Lamont, of Bath, Me. Oregon, determined to enter into a general trade with r

204 THE GROWTH OF

the settlers, sending a cargo of assorted goods and intending to take in return a cargo of salt salmon- for the salt salmon idea still stuck in the minds of the New England merchants. For this purpose the brig " Maryland " was fitted out, and was placed in command of a young sea captain, John H. Couch. Couch was then an experienced seaman, although but twenty-eight years of age, having been a sailor since the age of fifteen, and in the East India trade, in em- ploy of Bartlett, of Newburyport. He had been mar- ried but a few years, his wife being Caroline Flan- ders, a sister of George H. Flanders. His new em- ployer was the father of the celebrated Caleb Cush- ing; and thus by trade relations, marriage, and in his own right Couch represented eminent connections. It was his intention to dispose of his general mer- chandise at the Hawaiians and in Oregon; load sal- mon on the Columbia, proceed to the islands and sell the salmon, and take on a cargo of whale oil for Massachusetts. He arrived in June of 1840, off the bar of the Co- lumbia, about a month after the " Lausanne," al- CAPTAIN ready mentioned. Although wholly unacquainted An Oreg with the bar and the river he made a safe entrances and followed the river until he was compelled to stop -which was not until he reached the Falls of the Willamette. Oregon was astonished to see the ap- parition of a gallant New England vessel, with can- vas spread to the dallying winds, where hitherto only canoes or bateaux had penetrated; but the conditions. THE GROWTH OF rgo of assorted goods and n a cargo of salt salmon- still stuck in the minds of ats. For this purpose the bted out, and was placed in i captain, John H. Couch. meed seaman, although but having been a sailor since he East India trade, in em- tryport. He had been mar- wife being Caroline Flan- I. Flanders. His new em- the celebrated Caleb Cush- ations, marriage, and in his. ,nted eminent connections. ispose of his general mer- s and in Oregon; load sal- ceed to the islands and sell a cargo of whale oil fori

L840, off the bar of the Co- CAPTAIN JOHN H. COUCH Xfter the " Lausanne," al- An Oregon Pioneer of 1840. )ugh wholly unacquainted ,r he made a safe entrance$ ;il he was compelled to stop 3reached the Falls of the astonished to see the ap- England vessel, with can- winds, where hitherto only ietrated; but the conditions

AN AMERICAN STATE 205

were not found favorable for trade. The Oregon peo- ple had no money; neither did they, having no re- course except to the Hudson's Bay fort, hardly dare to trade with a chance competitor. Consequently the "Maryland " dropped down the river as the sum- mer freshet receded, and finally put to sea, and be- came catalogued with the long list of previous Ameri- can failures on the Columbia. One most important acquisition, however, from the "Maryland "-as almost every ship had to leave at least one settler- was G. W. Le Breton, an active and well educated young American. As his name indicates, he was of French ancestry; and he was a member of the Cath- olic Church. He occupied a position, therefore, of rare influence, and used it rarely, and would perhaps have reached a place of eminence in the nation as he did in the little Oregon community, had his life not been prematurely cut off by an unwise affray with a band of Molallas. Couch, however, did not give up for one failure. He went back to Massachusetts, built a bark, the " Chenamus," which he modeled after an Indian canoe, and named for a Chinook chief, giving thus the form, as it is said, upon which the clipper ships, and more recently the ocean greyhounds, have been constructed. With the " Chenamus " he returned in 1844, and engaged in permanent trade. Two very important government expeditions en- tered the Columbia River during this period. The first was under Sir Edward Belcher, of the Royal

OL I 206 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

Navy, on the part of the British admiralty, and sur- 1838. The " Sea Gull ' veyed the Pacific Coast from San Francisco Bay to Horn; the course was tl the Columbia, including both harbors, and the lower southern continent was Columbia to the Willamette and Vancouver. This shores charted for nearl was in 1839, though the period covered by the ex- treme of land, his highe pedition was from 1836 to 1842, making the circuit degrees, 10 minutes, a of the globe, and charting many hitherto undeter- reached, except by Cook mined points in the Pacific Ocean. It is said that for the Oregon coast, w McLoughlin and Sir Edward nearly came to an al- 1841. Fearing to ventu tercation about the cattle on Sauvie's Island; the bar he stood out to sea a Englishman wishing to supply his ships from the and entering the sound young herd, which was dear as the apple of his eye Nisqually, near the poin to the doughty doctor, and was defended at all fort by the British. Ge hazards. country were made fro The monumental expedition of the times was that went across the CascadE of Lieutenant Charles Wilkes, afterward admiral. gan; another came sou It was ordered out by the United States Government noissance of the Cowlitz to survey for the use of American mariners the lumbia, and as far up as hitherto not well charted shores of both the Southern made surveys of the coa and Northern Pacific. The work on the Columbia was of Fuca, Admiralty Inlm not probably the primary design, as this department even the Sacramento val was not first visited; but that the heads of depart- ted that Puget Sound wf ments were keeping a close watch upon American in- of this great examination terests in Oregon, was shown by the inclusion of this -under a trained and cal in Wilkes' great survey. The exploring squadron could not but be impressE consisted of the two sloops of war, " Vincennes " to impress others, that F and " Peacock," already memorable in history; the of Fuca were naturally ai store ship ' Relief*" the brig " Porpoise " and the in possession of the Coli schooners " Sea Gull " and " Flying Fish." The out this immense body ol squadron sailed from the Chesapeake August 19, of the Pacific Coast, eithe THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 207 ritish admiralty, and sur- 1838. The " Sea Gull " was lost after passing Cape um San Francisco Bay to Horn; the course was then toward Australia, and the th harbors, and the lower southern continent was explored and its ice-bound te and Vancouver. This shores charted for nearly 1,800 miles. From this ex- oeriod covered by the ex- treme of land, his highest southern latitude being 70 1842, making the circuit degrees, 10 minutes, and farther south than any , many hitherto undeter- reached, except by Cook and Weddell, Wilkes set sail c Ocean. It is said that for the Oregon coast, which he reached on April 27, Lrd nearly came to an al- 1841. Fearing to venture at that season across the on Sauvie's Island; the bar he stood out to sea and made the Straits of Fuca, ipply his ships from the and entering the sound proceeded as far south as tr as the apple of his eye Nisqually, near the point already long occupied as a nd was defended at all fort by the British. General surveys of the Oregon country were made from this station: One party ion of the times was that went across the Cascade Mountains to Fort Okano- Ikes, afterward admiral. gan; another came southward and made a recon- Inited States Government noissance of the Cowlitz Valley and of the Lower Co- American mariners the lumbia, and as far up as Wallula. Still other parties ores of both the Southern made surveys of the coast of the Pacific, the Straits Pvork on the Columbia was of Fuca, Admiralty Inlet, and the Willamette, and Lesign, as this department even the Sacramento valleys. It is not to be regret- that the heads of depart- ted that Puget Sound was made practically the base watch upon American in- of this great examination, which was carefully done rn by the inclusion of this under a trained and capable corps of officers, who The exploring squadron could not but be impressed, and could not have failed Is of war, " Vincennes " to impress others, that Puget Sound and the Straits iemorable in history; the of Fuca were naturally and necessarily to be included rig " Porpoise " and the in possession of the Columbia basin, and that with- d " Flying Fish." The out this immense body of water as the supreme gate Chesapeake August 19, of the Pacific Coast, either commercial or military oc-

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208 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST cupation and possession of Oregon would be impos- diplomatic relations, iv sible. The gate of the Cascade Mountains by the gonians conversed, gett valley, or chasm, of the Columbia, as an outlet to the as to procedure in casi lower waters was not more necessary than posses- local American Goverm sion of the Straits of Fuca as the logical gateway Wilkes to an infant at from the lower waters to the Pacific and to the world. some of the young men " The scientific frontier," which would forever set- jected. tle the question of boundaries and reduce occupation This leads to one of to its lowest terms, and insure unchangeable relations withal perfectly successi between nations that sought, on the whole, to be in Oregon's romantic hi friends, must class the Puget Sound Basin as a part tlers still wished to get of the Columbia Basin. and thinking over the D The sloop of war " Peacock," under command of schooner, sail it to Sa Lieutenant William L. Hudson, having been sepa- purchase their stock, an rated and long detained, reached the Columbia in They considered it iml July; missed the channel and was wrecked on the Mission, or the Hudson sands now bearing the name of Peacock Spit. The ther venture; as these wi crew, however, and all the papers were landed in next to impossible, with safety on Cape Disappointment, where every cour- buy cattle of either McLI tesy was shown by the agents of the Hudson's Bay ing Young, who owned I Company and by the missionaries. Wilkes later en- valley-except such as th tered the Columbia in the " Porpoise "; the " Vin- private use. There was, cennes " going to California. cent additions in the va Many results of the highest interest came from nishing several; and a ni this expedition. Among others connected with it was with their families, had Horatio Hale, who became interested in the ethnol- taken claims in the Tuala ogy of the region, and was perhaps first to make a the Willamette Valley, a scientific study of the Indian languages, as mentioned mer and winter, of suci in Volume I. There were also gentlemen well positively wicked to wit] versed in the laws of the country, treaty rights, and there fatten, and need fe [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 209

Oregon would be impos- diplomatic relations, with whom some of the Ore- Lscade Mountains by the gonians conversed, getting very valuable suggestions umbia, as an outlet to the as to procedure in case they attempted to set up a e necessary than posses- local American Government. Of great help, too, was :a as the logical gateway WVilkes to an infant attempt at shipbuilding, which ^ Pacific and to the world. some of the young men in the Willamette Valley pro- which would forever set- jected. ies and reduce occupation This leads to one of the most daring efforts and Ire unchangeable relations withal perfectly successful of all the striking episodes ,ht, on the whole, to be in Oregon's romantic history. Some among the set- ,et Sound Basin as a part tlers still wished to get cattle again from California, and thinking over the means they decided to build a ,ock," under command of schooner, sail it to San Francisco, and selling it, idson, having been sepa- purchase their stock, and return with them by land. reached the Columbia in They considered it impossible now to interest the and was wrecked on the Mission, or the Hudson's Bay Company, for a fur- ne of Peacock Spit. The ther venture; as these were fully supplied, and it was Le papers were landed in next to impossible, without money of their own, to tment, where every cour- buy cattle of either McLoughlin, the Mission, or Ew- ants of the Hudson's Bay ing Young, who owned the most of the stock in the .onaries. Wilkes later en- valley-except such as the French settlers needed for " Porpoise "; the " Vin- private use. There was a considerable number of re- .ia. cent additions in the valley-the Peoria party fur- ghest interest came from nishing several; and a number of the mountain men, hers connected with it was with their families, had recently arrived and had ] interested in the ethnol- taken claims in the -then, as was all Ls perhaps first to make a the Willamette Valley, a waving sea of grass, sum- in languages, as mentioned mer and winter, of such abundance as to make if ere also gentlemen well positively wicked to withhold the herds that could *ountry, treaty rights, and there fatten, and need feed only upon the rich seed [Vol. 3]

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210 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S

ends of the tall wild grain. These mountain men Canan and Kilbou] were the well-known Robert Newell, George W. Eb- then sought Gale, and berts, Caleb Wilkins, William Doty and Jos. L. Meek. the work. He accordi Joseph Gale, who had come with Young, and trapped M. Walker, who came for the Hudson's Bay Company, was also a member and had acted as agei of the colony, and was anxious about cattle and eral supervision of Fo horses. ily came to the Falls, ' The active spirits at first, however, seem to have er, and with Kilbouri been men above the . These were then it was with diffici John Canan, Ralph L. Kilbourne, Pleasant Armstrong, while and run the miss Henry Woods, George Davis and Jacob Green. In his wants; and in the e subsequent notes more of their antecedents will be trated with fever an( given. With Gale, who was known to be a seaman, worst of their difficult the company, comprised as above, wished to make came discouraged an( terms, but he did not at first think he could go with able obstacle was fo them, having just taken a place with the mountain bluntly refused them men. For master builder was selected Felix Hatha- could the sails, cordaE way-remembered as the arrival in 1829 from the rigging a vessel be obi schooner "1Convoy." He was an excellent ship car- way. In their extremi penter, and with the others selected a spot on the east Wilkes, then in the rii side of Swan Island, just below Portland, as at pres- complaint, and interviE ent, and there laid the keel with a clear stick of red sons for opposing suec fir forty-eight feet eight inches long, cut from Sau- doctor replied that the vie's Island. But before ready for launching Hatha- fin for themselves; th way found it very dubious about his pay; and not of the enterprise, had b only that, but provisions showed signs of failing. and " what did he kn With purse and flour barrel both empty he judged replied that he was sati the company insolvent, and quit. The rest, however, sailor; McLoughlin fe boarded up the sides sufficiently to make the vessel not honest trade, but float, launched her, and brought her up to the Falls construed as piracy oi on the freshet. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 211 in. These mountain men Canan and Kilbourne, not yet willing to give up, rt Newell, George W. Eb- then sought Gale, and urged him to join in and finish am Doty and Jos. L. Meek. the work. He accordingly sold his place to Courtney Xwith Young, and trapped M. Walker, who came as secular agent for the Lees, apany, was also a member and had acted as agent for Wyeth in keeping a gen- anxious about cattle and eral supervision of Fort William; and taking his fam- ily came to the Falls, where lay the hull of the schoon- st, however, seem to have er, and with Kilbourne finished the job. But even Lmette Falls. These were then it was with difficulty. He was obliged to stop a urne, Pleasant Armstrong, while and run the mission saw mill, in order to supply vis and Jacob Green. In his wants; and in the course of the summer was pros- their antecedents will be trated with fever and ague. But this was not the as known to be a seaman, worst of their difficulty. Several of the company be- Is above, wished to make came discouraged and withdrew. But the insuper- rst think he could go with able obstacle was found in Dr. McLoughlin; he S place with the mountain bluntly refused them materials. As only from him was selected Felix Hatha- could the sails, cordage, and other requirements for arrival in 1829 from the rigging a vessel be obtained, this seemed to close the was an excellent ship car- way. In their extremity they applied to Commodore selected a spot on the east Wilkes, then in the river. He at once took up their ielow Portland, as at pres- complaint, and interviewed McLoughlin as to his rea- 1 with a clear stick of red sons for opposing such a creditable enterprise. The aches long, cut from Sau- doctor replied that they were simply building a cof- eady for launching Hatha- fin for themselves; that Gale, who was at the head s about his pay; and not of the enterprise, had been a trapper for his company showed signs of failing. and " what did he know about the sea? " Wilkes rel both empty he judged replied that he was satisfied that Gale was a thorough I quit. The rest, however, sailor; McLoughlin feared then that the object was ,iently to make the vessel not honest trade, but some venture that might be ought her up to the Falls construed as piracy on the California Coast; and --- r

212 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST,

that as recognized Governor of Oregon he should 6 inches. She was buil himself be held responsible if unaceredited crafts set with red cedar decking, out from the Columbia. Wilkes was willing, how- ambitious but still slen ever, to issue the necessary papers to his American would be inadequate to* boys in Oregon, thus relieving McLoughlin of all re- Captain Gale, and his sponsibility; and he also was willing to be responsi- from the Willamette, ble for their credit at the store, closing his inter- spin to Fort Vancouv view, ' I shall want a considerable amount of such Stripes as they round( things myself; you may charge the aggregated couver "; and writing amount to me, and I will settle the same with you." Mr. Douglas, asking ii On this assurance McLoughlin made no further ob- California. But receiv jection, and the young men took advantage of the the schooner ' Cadbor flourishing condition of their credit to lay in an am- will leave port soon wE ple store of cordage, canvas, paints, oil, etc.; but particular. " had the satisfaction of meeting their obligation The trip was made; themselves in furs and wheat, without recourse to the afternoon of Septe the generous advances of the admiral. ing taken from Cape DI. Before the schooner, which they named " The went down. A high wi Star of Oregon," was completed, Gale was asked by tested the first of the Lieutenant Wilkes to satisfy him that he understood gon timber, but she boi navigation; and upon an examination, he was given straining a spar or spr sailing papers that would be honored in any port of through the portals " ( the world. He was also presented by Wilkes with a arrow," September 17dt flag, an ensign, a compass, kedge anchor, a hawser cows; but Gale seeing 140 fathoms long, a log line, and two log glasses. a party as his returning From Kilbourne, Couch's mate, he bought a quad- the Indian country cone rant epitome, and a nautical almanac. " The Star " interest foot-loose men was a natty little craft, clinker built, of the Baltimore spring to Oregon. Thii clipper model, 45 feet 8-inch keel, 53 feet 8 inches forty-two men, under over all, 9-foot beam, and drew in good ballast 4 feet hundred and fifty heac F

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 213 or of Oregon he should 6 inches. She was built of oak and red fir, planked if unaccredited crafts set with red cedar decking, and neatly painted. On this Vilkes was willing, how- ambitious but still slender craft, which all predicted papers to his American would be inadequate to meet the waves of the Pacific, ng McLoughlin of all re- Captain Gale, and his crew of landsmen set forth as willing to be responsi- from the Willamette, August 25th, and took a store, closing his inter- spin to Fort Vancouver, unfurling the Stars and diderable amount of such Stripes as they rounded the British vessel " Van- charge the aggregated couver "; and writing a note to the commandant, *ttle the same with you." Mr. Douglas, asking if he had any dispatches for ilin made no further ob- California. But received the short reply, that " as a took advantage of the the schooner ' Cadborough,' Captain Scarborough, ir credit to lay in an am- will leave port soon we will not trouble you in that as, paints, oil, etc.; but particular. " neeting their obligation The trip was made; the Columbia River was left Leat, without recourse to the afternoon of September 12, 1842, departure be- ie admiral. ing taken from Cape Disappointment just as the sun hich they named " The went down. A high wind and storm with dense fog )leted, Gale was asked by tested the first of the American ships built of Ore- y him that he understood gon timber, but she bounded over the waves without Kamination, he was given straining a spar or springing a plank, and " dashed ie honored in any port of through the portals " of the Golden Gate, " like an esented by Wilkes with a arrow," September l7th. The boat was sold for 350 kedge anchor, a hawser cows; but Gale seeing the improbability of so small ne, and two log glasses. a party as his returning in safety with them through mate, he bought a quad- the Indian country concluded to stay over winter and almanac. " The Star " I interest foot-loose men in California, going the next cer built, of the Baltimore spring to Oregon. This was done, and a company of ich keel, 53 feet 8 inches forty-two men, under Gale as leader, with twelve rew in good ballast 4 feet hundred and fifty head of cattle, six hundred head -- -, r

214 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE

of horses and mules, and nearly three thousand sheep, CHAP' rode over the mountains into the valleys of Oregon. This was a very substantial addition to the wealth of THE STRUGGLE F( the community. It was also an achievement that (Cont presaged great things in the future. J. L. Parrish might well say with pride, in a letter to Colonel Nesmith about " The Star," that it was he who hammered out the nails and irons, from mission iron, which united the timbers. Thus the mission, as well as the Oregon settlers, and the American ad- miral, had a hand in the first ship which bore the American colors from the port of " Oregon." Par- rish also adds, " I might have said many things more in regard to difficulties of obtaining rigging and sails at Vancouver, but I deem it not necessary here." It was perfectly evident that it was the policy of the British Company to discourage and prevent if possi- ble enterprises like that of Kilbourne and Gale; but this was political rather than personal on the part of McLoughlin. 9 AMERICAN STATE rly three thousand sheep, CHAPTER VII ;o the valleys of Oregon. addition to the wealth of THE STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE so an achievement that (Continued) future. ay with pride, in a letter rhe Star, " that it was he and irons, from mission ers. Thus the mission, s, and the American ad- -st ship which bore the )rt of " Oregon." Par- ) said many things more aining rigging and sails t not necessary here." it was the policy of the ge and prevent if possi- iilbourne and Gale; but n personal on the part I

I N the meantime, extending theiE Americans were wealth and use bountiful Willa them herds of cattle, b sheep, there was a vei crease of population fi mostly world wanderer for whom Oregon seem attraction. Among th( teresting characters th some even whose literal culation. As early as 1835 Jol tain giant, who had tr and had barely escape( upon Smith's party at t Oregon, and making up himself and squaw; horses and a complete t from California. The

pany were George Gay, - ler, John Woodworth, S " Big Tom," and anoth recorded. Of this party to be of most interest to of England, being born i but twenty-five years o] early in life had travele I N the meantime, while the missionaries were extending their operations, and the earlier Americans were taking steps to increase their wealth and use the natural productions of the bountiful Willamette Valley by turning upon them herds of cattle, bands of horses, and flocks of sheep, there was a very slow but still constant in- crease of population from fresh arrivals, who were mostly world wanderers from the sea or continent, for whom Oregon seemed to possess a sort of mystic attraction. Among these are some of the most in- teresting characters that have ever appeared; and some even whose literary works have had a wide cir- culation. As early as 1835 John Turner, the Rocky Moun- tain giant, who had trapped with Jedediah Smith, and had barely escaped with his life in the attack upon Smith's party at the Umpqua, thought again of Oregon, and making up a little band of six, besides himself and squaw; and with forty-seven good horses and a complete trapping outfit, started hither from California. The other members of the com- pany were George Gay, Dr. W. J. Bailey, Daniel Mil- ler, John Woodworth, Saunders; an Irishman called " Big Tom," and another whose name has not been recorded. Of this party Gay and Dr. Bailey proved to be of most interest to Oregon. Gay was a native of England, being born in Glostershire, and was now but twenty-five years old; but having gone to sea early in life had traveled almost around the world; 218 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA his last voyage being on the " Kitty," a whaler to and struck out alone on the Pacific. At Monterey, however, he took leave of but before leaving the his ship, and joining Ewing Young, who was then trousers for moccasins I trapping in California, came as far north as the shirt, and still suffering Rogue River. Dr. Bailey was a well educated phy- he finally by the west sician, still young, and also a native of England; but the fords of the Yamhill had cared little for professional life, and went to sea, and the Scappoose tru bringing up also in California. Wyeth's fort on Sauvie Turner's party met with no difficulty until camp- worth and Bailey continu ing at " The Point of Rocks, " on Rogue River. Here til reaching the Methodi they were attacked by Indians, but after a desperate where the inmates were fight, in which all were wounded and two were killed, appearance, as they wer the trappers succeeded in driving off the savages, well as wounded and nea who fought strictly as savages, and actually impeded cared for most attentiv( one another by the numbers and disorder of their at- that he had been a prodi tack. But the condition of the little band was still settle down to his profes most critical. The horses had been driven off by resident. Turner returni the squaws while the Indians were fighting; three of wanderings, being killed the rifles had been broken in clubbing the Indians, 1847, by the accidental and their clothes were torn or cut, and their wounds Ile is characterized by C( were very painful. Bailey received a gash across the Kentucky giant, so well chin which left a scar for life. Provisions were also Herculean strength, go( lost. But by traveling at night until passing out of and dauntless courage. " the hostile country, they reached at length the Wil- Gay remained in Ore, lamette. Saunders and Tom gave out in the Umpqua that went with Slacum oi and were left with the Indians, who reported to Mc- In the Siskiyou Mounta Loughlin that both died. After striking the Willam- trouble with the Indianm ette Turner became confused, thinking this river was arrow, the stone point c the Columbia. From maps that he had seen, Gay, and was carried there f however, was positive that the Columbia ran west, care of the stock that he THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 219

i "Kitty," a whaler to and struck out alone on the west side of the valley; owever, he took leave of but before leaving the others cut up his buckskin , Young, who was then trousers for moccasins for the party. Clad in his ae as far north as the shirt, and still suffering from wounds and bruises, as a well educated phy- he finally by the west side route of the Rickreal, native of England; but the fords of the Yamhill at Lafayette, Wapato Lake, nal life, and went to sea, and the Scappoose trail, succeeded in reaching ia. Wyeth's fort on Sauvie's Island. Turner, Wood- no difficulty until camp- worth and Bailey continued down the Willamette un- " on Rogue River. Here til reaching the Methodist mission at Chemayway, is, but after a desperate where the inmates were startled by their frightful ded and two were killed, appearance, as they were gaunt with starvation as [riving off the savages, well as wounded and nearly naked. They were here As, and actually impeded eared for most attentively, and Bailey, concluding and disorder of their at- that he had been a prodigal long enough, decided to the little band was still settle down to his profession, and became a lifelong had been driven off by resident. Turner returned before many years to his were fighting; three of wanderings, being killed at length in California, in n clubbing the Indians, 1847, by the accidental discharge of his own rifle. r cut, and their wounds Ile is characterized by Colonel Nesmith as " The old ceived a gash across the Kentucky giant, so well known, and famed for his 3. Provisions were also Herculean strength, good nature, quaint oddities, ght until passing out of and dauntless courage." ched at length the Wil- Gay remained in Oregon, and was in the party gave out in the Umpqua that went with Slacum on the " Loriot " after cattle. as, who reported to Mc- In the Siskiyou Mountains, where there was again ter striking the Willam- trouble with the Indians, he was wounded with an thinking this river was arrow, the stone point of which lodged in his flesh that he had seen, Gay, and was carried there for a number of years. By the Columbia ran west, care of the stock that he brought with him, he soon AN AMERICAN ST. 220 THE GROWTH OF a freer course, and the had a large herd, which roamed at will over the south- tablished without ern part of Yamhill and the northern parts of Polk the also thought that where counties, as now established. On the old Salem road, land and a few miles south from Dayton, he subsequently pasturage frei support from the eastei built a brick house-said to be the first dwelling of ed, however, by a congr that character in Oregon. Colonel Nesmith says of cut, and making an agre Gay: " When the writer made the acquaintance of Asahel Munger, a meed George Gay, forty years ago, he was a handsome, Munger, and his athletic man, of powerful physical organization, wife, visiting at Lapwai and combined with great activity, being as fine a horse- ceeding to Fort Vancou man as ever bestrode a steed, and as expert a for a time as post chaph as ever swung a lasso. . . . His house was a gen- and character as little e3 eral resort for travelers and emigrants in early days. fixed in his opinions, he I have known him to slaughter a bullock for the company, and conch breakfast for his guests, the remnants of which were on Tualatin Plains, nea: eaten for supper. Gay was kind and gentle in his With Munger he made deportment, but always retained a dash of rollick- organizing a congregat: ing bonhomie, which more or less pertains to the were soon much brokem sailor, the trapper, and mountaineer. " associate, Munger; wh Interest in Oregon as a field for establishing so- unbalanced; and conce ciety upon a new and wider plan, without the evils of revelation, which he war older communities, continued to attract hither young cast himself upon a fire men of good education and idealistic minds. One he soon died. such was Rev. J. S. Griffin, a graduate of Oberlin Another of much the Theological Seminary, under the celebrated evangel- liam Geiger, of Helvetia ist, Charles G. Finney. In the atmosphere and time number of persons in h of this great man Griffin had become deeply im- colonizing Oregon, in ti pressed with reformatory ideas, such as abolition of tion and reformed mora slavery, total abstinence, and anti-Romanism. He as an advance guard an. conceived that in Oregon his new ideas might have AN AMERICAN STATE 221 THE GROWTH OF a freer course, and the country from the first be es- d at will over the south- tablished without the evils that he deplored. He northern parts of Polk also thought that where nature was unconfined and On the old Salem road, land and pasturage free, there would be no need of Lyton, he subsequently support from the eastern churches. Being accredit- be the first dwelling of ed, however, by a congregational church in Connecti- olonel Nesmith says of cut, and making an agreement, or " covenant," with Lde the acquaintance of Asahel Munger, a mechanic, he, with his wife, and I, he was a handsome, Munger, and his wife, crossed the plains in 1838, physical organization, visiting at Lapwai and Waiilatpu, and at length pro- being as fine a horse- ceeding to Fort Vancouver, where he was employed and as expert a vaquero for a time as post chaplain. Being of a temperament His house was a gen- and character as little executive as he was intense and ,migrants in early days. fixed in his opinions, he found little co-operation with slaughter a bullock for the company, and concluded to occupy a tract of land remnants of which were on Tualatin Plains, near the recent site of Hillsboro. kind and gentle in his With Munger he made a settlement, and assisted in ined a dash of rollick- organizing a congregational church. But his plans or less pertains to the were soon much broken by the derangement of his taineer. " associate, Munger; who finally became completely eld for establishing so- unbalanced; and conceiving that he had a special lan, without the evils of revelation, which he was to prove by a physical test, to attract hither young cast himself upon a fire, receiving such injuries that idealistic minds. One he soon died. a graduate of Oberlin Another of much the same class of ideas was Wil- the celebrated evangel- liam Geiger, of Helvetia, New York. A considerable he atmosphere and time number of persons in his town had been thinking of iad become deeply im- colonizing Oregon, in the interest of higher civiliza- ?as, such as abolition of tion and reformed morality, and he made the journey id anti-Romanism. He as an advance guard and seeker of information. He 3 new ideas might have 222 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STI

had also learned of the settlement in California of pany's business. But Captain Sutter, and wished toexamine the Sacramento the question, answering Valley. With him as traveling companion was John- Loughlin is credited wi son, to whom has been attributed the authorship of much relish in after yea] the popular story, " The Prairie Flower "; and that Another American ol he wrote the novel on his journey across the plains, character as gentle as Si and under the stress of his own feelings, in following accumulate property foi then the fortunes of a young woman to whom he was Clarke. He arrived in I much attached. By others Sidney W. Moss, an im- porting plan, but being migrant of 1842, is regarded as the author. John- tional Church of Litchfi son went to the Sandwich Islands, never to return; porting missionaries, D Geiger passed on down to Sutter's fort, but not being disparagingly, "1 They ( so favorably impressed with the Mexican territory, work to support them ih came back to Oregon. It is said that when the two but their plan failed." young men reached Fort Vancouver they were asked their ideas; especially o1 by the officer to show their passports. Laying their lished a school first on I hands on their rifles, they answered, " These are ting not only the childre Americans' passports." or the half-natives. But Another story of those days, when the young saw that there was mucd Americans were rather fond of showing their spirit, if he owned his premis has been often repeated. One of these applying at later to West Tualatin P the fort for provisions found that his credit was the larger branch of the none too good. " Well, never mind," he retorted; took a claim, covering tl "' if I am rather poor, I have an uncle back home of Forest Grove, and tb rich enough to buy out the whole Hudson's Bay Com- has matured into Pacific pany." " Mr. Woods, Mr. Woods," said Dr. Mc- McLoughlin, no less t Loughlin, looking up hastily from his work; " who was at a loss to understai may this very rich uncle of yours be? "-strongly farmer. To their min( implying that the young man had but small com- clergyman, was a reclus prehension of the value of the Hudson's Bay Com- ing for home or property THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 223 ement in California of pany's business. But Woods was quite ready for examine the Sacramento the question, answering drily, " Uncle Sam." Mc- g companion was John- Loughlin is credited with repeating the story with )uted the authorship of much relish in after years. [rie Flower "; and that Another American of ideal purposes, and of a irney across the plains, character as gentle as St. John, and too generous to mn feelings, in following accumulate property for himself, was Rev. Harvey woman to whom he was Clarke. He arrived in 1840, coming on the self-sup- Kidney W. Moss, an im- porting plan, but being accredited by the Congrega- I as the author. John- tional Church of Litchfield, Conn. Of the self-sup- lands, never to return; porting missionaries, Dr. McLoughlin says rather ter's fort, but not being disparagingly, " They expected the Indians would the Mexican territory, work to support them in return for their teaching; said that when the two but their plan failed." This does scant justice to [couver they were asked their ideas; especially of Harvey Clarke. He estab- assports. Laying their lished a school first on East Tualatin Plains, admit- answered, " These are ting not only the children of Indians but of whites; or the half-natives. But upon maturer reflection he lays, when the young saw that there was much better prospect of success of showing their spirit, if he owned his premises. He therefore removed ae of these applying at later to West Tualatin Plains, and on the borders of nd that his credit was the larger branch of the Tualatin, or Gale's Creek, er mind," he retorted; took a claim, covering the greater part of the town ve an uncle back home of Forest Grove, and there opened a school, which ole Hudson's Bay Com- has matured into Pacific University. Woods," said Dr. Mc- McLoughlin, no less than all the British writers, from his work; " who was at a loss to understand the American missionary yours be? "-strongly farmer. To their mind the true missionary, or in had but small com- clergyman, was a recluse, neither owning nor car- he Hudson's Bay Com- ing for home or property; but either satisfied as the 224 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Si clergymen of the established church of England, with American, is no less ra a *' living "; or, as the priests of the Catholic or- ing of high praise fo ganization, with their gown. To own a home, rear American plan of mis a family, and accumulate property seemed to him, in Oregon. It is thus as to all the British or Catholic writers, a sign of Matthew P. Deady. worldliness and mercenary spirit; and that this independent Congrega threw their whole effort into the light of hypocrisy. plains to the Whitma Clarke is therefore briefly dismissed by McLoughlin year came into the val as follows: " In 1840, the Rev. Mr. Clarke, of the settled in Tualatin Pla Presbyterian [Congregationalist] Church, with his T. Smith and P. B. L wife, and two laymen with their wives, came across ment on the Tualatin land on the self-supporting system; but as their dition to the active, in predecessors, they failed and are now settled in the in the country. In his Willamette. " No more generous, or devoted, or spirit in it, and an acti more truly successful man than Harvey Clarke ever man. It has been sa came to Oregon; and so far from considering that blessed by his having 1 by taking a farm he had retired from his mission, he or mural monument of made this farm the foundation of one of the great contains no greater ei beneficent institutions of the commonwealth; donat- He was the principal I ing more than half, and that the part available for school at Forest Grove- town site purposes, to the institution. The two lay- University, and one of men with Clarke were Alvin T. Smith and P. B. learning on the coast." Littlejohn. Smith became a farmer at West Tuala- The same year, 184( tin, and also donated largely for educational, church, alluded to, Robert New and missionary purposes. This method of carrying Meek, moved with the on religious and educational work has been in vogue Mountains to the Wilh in America since the landing of the Pilgrims and the deciding them toward days of Penn, and although not readily understood break up of the Amer5 by the English of the later day, whose economic sys- necessity of providing a tem is based on principles wholly different from the ilies-for they were all i [Vol. 3j THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 225 iurch of England, with American, is no less religious; and Clarke is deserv- its of the Catholic or- ing of high praise for applying this same pioneer To own a home, rear American plan of missionary and educational work )perty seemed to him, in Oregon. It is thus noticed in an address by Hon. olic writers, a sign of Matthew P. Deady. " In 1840, Harvey Clarke, an spirit; and that this independent Congregational missionary, crossed the the light of hypocrisy. plains to the Whitman mission, and the following missed by McLoughlin year came into the valley, with some associates, and ,ev. Mr. Clarke, of the settled in Tualatin Plains. Among these were Alvin list] Church, with his T. Smith and P. B. Littlejohn. . .. This settle- eir wives, came across ment on the Tualatin Plains was an important ad- system; but as their dition to the active, intelligent American settlement are now settled in the in the country. In his day Mr. Clarke was a leading erous, or devoted, or spirit in it, and an active, useful man and exemplary an Harvey Clarke ever man. It has been said of him-' The country is from considering that blessed by his having lived in it.' The votive tablet, ed from his mission, he or mural monument of pantheon, cathedral, or abbey, on of one of the great contains no greater eulogy of the dead than this. commonwealth; donat- He was the principal founder and promoter of the the part available for school at Forest Grove-since grown into the Pacific ;titution. The two lay- University, and one of the oldest and best seats of n T. Smith and P. B. learning on the coast." farmer at West Tuala- The same year, 1840, the mountain men already ror educational, church, alluded to, Robert Newell, Caleb Wilkins, and J. L. his method of carrying Meek, moved with their families from the Rocky work has been in vogue Mountains to the Willamette Valley. The occasion of the Pilgrims and the deciding them toward the settlement was the final not readily understood break up of the American Fur Company, and the y, whose economic sys- necessity of providing a home for their growing fam- iolly different from the ilies-for they were all married men, and had bright, [Vol. 33

- 226 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI half-native children. Newell had been employed to hearing me regret the pilot Clarke and his party to Fort Hall, and received I the wagon, the doctor s in payment the two wagons which the American mis- it. You have broken ti sionaries left there. Some account of their journey wagons have passed U is best given in Newell's own language-a letter to years the valley will Hon. Elwood Evans. Newell says: " At the time doctor shook me heari T took the wagons I had no idea of bringing them man, too, welcomed to this country. I exchanged fat horses to the mis- around the wagons, or sionaries for their animals, and after they had gone and seemed to give it u a month or more for Wallamet, and the American the doctor, and then Fur Company abandoned the country for good, I where we were kindly r concluded to hitch up and try the much dreaded job chief trader of the HL of bringing a wagon to Oregon. Mr. Caleb Wilkins intendent of that posi had a small wagon which Joel Walker had left at Fort took leave of those kir Hall. On the 5th of August we put out with three and taking the river trc wagons. J oseph L. Meek drove my wagon. In a few The party did not arri days we began to realize the difficult task before us, December, subsisting i and found that the continual crashing of the sage and upon several occE under our wagons, which was in many places higher stock across the Colum than the mules' backs, was no joke. Seeing our ami- Newell, Meek, and M mals beginning to fail, we began to light up, finally Tualatin Plains, now or threw away our wagon beds, and were quite sorry ington County. G. W. we had undertaken the job. All the consolation we took claims in the samo had was that we broke the first sage on that road, the old road, or Indih and were too proud to eat anything but dried salmon Valley, on the west si( skins after our provisions had become exhausted. In pied early as the home a rather rough and reduced state we arrived at Dr. vie's Island. Tt was , Whitman's' mission station, in the Walla Walla Val- and covered with man ley, where we were met by that hospitable man and turf gorgeous in the eam kindly made welcome, and feasted accordingly. On of wild flowers. The THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 227

had been employed to bearing me regret that I had undertaken to bring Fort Hall, and received the wagon, the doctor said,' Oh, you will never regret Uich the American mis- it. You have broken the ice, and when others see that count of their journey wagons have passed they too will pass, and in a few X language-a letter to years the valley will be full of our people.' The I says: " At the time doctor shook me heartily by the hand; Mrs. Whit- idea of bringing them man, too, welcomed us, and the Indians walked fat horses to the mis- around the wagons, or what they called horse canoes, ad after they had gone and seemed to give it up. We spent a day or so with net, and the American the doctor, and then went to Fort Walla Walla, e country for good, I where we were kindly received by Mr. P. C. Pambrun, the much dreaded job chief trader of the Hudson's Bay Company, super- )n. Mr. Caleb Wilkins intendent of that post. On the 1st of October we Walker had left at Fort took leave of those kind people, leaving our wagons we put out with three and taking the river trail-but we proceeded slowly. " ve my wagon. In a few The party did not arrive at the Willamette Falls till difficult task before us, lDecember, subsisting for weeks upon dried salmon, I crashing of the sage and upon several occasions compelled to swim the in many places higher stock across the Columbia and the Willamette. i joke. Seeing our ani- Newell, Meek, and Wilkins settled soon upon East gan to light up, finally Tualatin Plains, now one of the best sections of Wash- and were quite sorry ington County. G. W. Ebberts and Joseph Gale also All the consolation we took claims in the same neighborhood. This was on irst sage on that road, the old road, or Indian trail from the Willamette Thing but dried salmon Valley, on the west side to Scappoose Plains, occu- I become exhausted. In pied early as the home of Thomas McKay, and Sau- state we arrived at Dr. vie's Island. It was a rich region, mostly prairie, i the Walla Walla Val- and covered with many sorts of wild grass, and a tat hospitable man and turf gorgeous in the early summer with many species asted accordingly. On of wild flowers. The grass was so abundant, says W T

228 THE GROWTH OF

Ebberts, that animals were fat on the range summer and winter; and that merely by feeding on the seed ends of the wild grains. There were alternations from the prairie to swale lands, marshy in the winter, or with a sluggish current through the dense grasses, but dry and covered with vegetation as the season advanced. Gale soon sold his place to Courtney M. Walker. After returning from California with his cattle, Gale laid a claim on the west branch of the Tualatin, overlooking the bottom lands of the stream, where the pasturage was also of primeval abundance, and from which in later times several scores of crops of the choicest grain have been taken, and some of the finest farms of Oregon have been made. Gale's house was at the foot of one of the outlying spurs of the coast range, the peak of which has been known by his name; both Gale's Creek and Gale's Peak being familiar in all western Oregon. The ingress of Americans, although of very slight proportions before 1839, was still sufficient to indi- cate to the managers of the Hudson's Bay Company that possession by occupation would be insisted upon in the final adjustment of the boundary. From the first it was considered that the actual boundary would be the line of the Columbia. As shown heretofore this w ould give the British possession of all that were then considered practicable inlets or harbors on the Pacific Coast, north of the Spanish, or Mexican, ter- ritories. This was so stated by John Dunn. As re- ported by Archibald McKinlay, through Dr. Tolmie, THE GROWTH OF at on the range summer r by feeding on the seed Lhere were alternations Is, marshy in the winter, rough the dense grasses, egetation as the season is place to Courtney M. 'Om California with his the west branch of the tor lands of the stream, of primeval abundance, 3several scores of crops n taken, and some of the been made. Gale's house IT ae outlying spurs of the X ~ich has been known by 02 ~n. although of very slight ,s still sufficient to indi-4 E~udson's Bay Company i would be insisted upon Le boundary. From the e actual boundary would As shown heretofore )ssession of all that were [uletspanish,ay.,by throughJohn or or harborsDunn. Mexican, Dr. Tolmie,onAs ter-there- ......

AN AMERICAN STATE 229

Sir George Simpson held, in 1841, " as a fact not to be doubted, that the Columbia River would be the boundary; and that the company (H. B.) could, by good management, establish a very lucrative trade with the Americans. " To make sure of the boundary, and to adjust this in such a manner that the American settlement on the Willamette would still be practically dependent upon the Hudson's Bay posts, was seen to be a mat- ter requiring careful management. In 1838, after having driven off the Americans under Bonneville and W yeth by competition in trade, and having been able to buy the "Perkins," and to induce McNeil, the Boston master of the American brig " Lama," to be- come shipmaster of his company, and to adjust some- personal matters, McLoughlin made the journey to London, met the directors of his company, and it was deemed advisable to plant a colony of actual set- tlers north of the Columbia. Since 1836 there had been some British settlers in the Cowlitz Valley, old Plomondo being one. In order to give the new or- ganization-which was in fact but a sub-corporation of the Hudson's Bay Company, and the stock seems to have been held by officers of that company-a name to indicate settlement rather than trade or business, the title " Puget Sound Agricultural As- sociation " was selected. This came into full opera- tion in 1840. In 1841 a considerable body of settlers from the Red River colony of Manitoba arrived. They were the mixed population, or " Red River "t rw:__ - 11 I - I

230 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S people. The men were largely whites, and of Scotch Not only the rich soill blood. There were some white women of English the idea of owning th lineage. The history of this settlement has been thus took hold of the minc epitomized by Judge M. P. Deady. " In 1837 the as no man is a more r formation of the Puget Sound Agricultural Com- lishman, once given t] pany was commenced by some of the principal per- prising that Oregon a sons of the Hudson's Bay Company, for the purpose the beneficiary of this of bringing into the country a British agricultural population to aid by their presence and numbers in the approaching contest for the occupation of the soil. Before 1840 the company was completely or- ganized, and in 1841 a party of settlers was brought from Red River, Rupert's Land, and settled on the Cowlitz and Nisqually, on the north side of the Co- lumbia. In 1843 Dr. Tolmie was placed in charge at Nisqually, the principal place of operations. But the settlement never throve and the scheme failed signally. In many respects the location was not a fa- vorable one for agricultural pursuits; and some of the settlers, who were attracted to the Willamette Valley on account of its superior advantages, left the company and eventually cast their weight on the American side of the question." The causes of dissatisfaction were on account of the stony or gravelly soil, which made all husbandry except herding cattle and sheep, little profitable; and still more that they were simply employees of a cor- poration. The idea indicated in the name that this was an agricultural settlement, was wholly a mis- nomer. These were still employees of the company. AMERICAN STATE 231 THE GROWTH OF AN but y whites, and of Scotch Not only the rich soils of the Willamette Valley, own farms and herds soon iite women of English the idea of owning their Nisqually settlers, and Settlement has been thus took hold of the mind of the radical Democrat than the Eng- Deady. " In 1837 the as no man is a more it was not sur- md Agricultural Com- lishman, once given the opportunity, soon became ie of the principal per- prising that Oregon and the Americans at colonization. mpany, for the purpose the beneficiary of this British effort a British agricultural resence and numbers in the occupation of the mny was completely or- of settlers was brought and, and settled on the .e north side of the Co- was placed in charge at Le of operations. But and the scheme failed he location was not a fa- pursuits; and some of teted to the Willamette iperior advantages, left y cast their weight on b'stion." ;ion were on account of aich made all husbandry ,ep, little profitable; and :ply employees of a cor- ,d in the name that this Lent, was wholly a mis- ployees of the company.

I CHA

THE STRUGGLE CHAPTER VIII

THE STRUGGLE FOR THE WILLAMETTE (Continued) I. , , 1-11-- I

Wleypopu two placE movement of the cot toward American Gov sioned by the death c on the Chehalem, in F sociated at this time wi he was nursed in his painful, and even tern the brain of a sac of i topsy-he became del unusually cold period his brow, as he expirei count of his former I who occasionally proc gun barrels for his v superstitiously by th anxious that the deatl tested, and that his Thus was encountere any time occur; prob the property of the d neither to the Hudso Mission, who had thei done only by some so gested the necessity o The funeral was he xILE these minute accretions to the population of the Willamette Val- ley community were being made, two very important events took place which greatly hastened the movement of the country south of the Columbia toward American Government. The first was occa- sioned by the death of Ewing Young, at his home on the Chehalem, in February of 1841. He was as- sociated at this time with Sidney W. Smith, by whom he was nursed in his last illness; which was of a painful, and even terrible nature. By pressure on the brain of a sac of watery fluid-as shown by au- topsy-he became delirious, and in the chill of an -unusually cold period, the dampness gathering on his brow, as he expired, was turned to frost. On ac- count of his former business of distillation, Smith, who occasionally produced liquors by means of old gun barrels for his worm, was regarded somewhat superstitiously by the Indians; and was himself anxious that the death of Young should be duly at- tested, and that his property should be probated. Thus was encountered a situation which might at any time occur; probating and disposing legally of the property of the deceased. As Young belonged neither to the Hudson's Bay Company nor to the Mission, who had their own procedure, this could be done only by some sort of public meeting, and sug- gested the necessity of some civil authority. The funeral was held February 17th, and was at- P -- -- - ~ m-H~ '*~ *- -

236 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S

tended by almost the entire settlement. After the erty of Ewing Young religious services had been concluded, the need of authority was suffere some civil authority to administer the estate was tavus Hines, " The o mentioned, and a meeting for the next day to con- sort of provisional g, clude the business was appointed to be held at the death of the late Ewii Methodist Mission.* This was well attended, and large and unsettled e; the sentiment was strong, especially among those not it, and no law to conti connected with either the Mission or the Company, gency of the case ha that some sort of civil authority should be estab- ment of a judge witl lished. After discussion it was decided to appoint immediately upon his a committee to form a constitution and draft a code tate of Ewing Young of laws. The committee consisted of the following: community; and the Rev. F. N. Blanchet, Rev. Jason Lee, Gustavus fluential citizens of tf Hines, J. L. Parrish, D. Donpierre, M. Charlevaux, of the legislative com Robert Moore, E. Lucier, and Wm. Johnson. Choice of establishing a pen of governor was indefinitely deferred, the compli- the peace and harmor cations of an executive with the Hudson's Bay peo- sibly be preserved w ple being apparent, and the principal object now in mitted to die away, ai view being some sort of a judicial authority which constitution and code would be respected by common consent. Dr. Ira L. to instructions, nor Babcock, of the Mission, was chosen supreme judge; were expected to repo G. W. LeBreton, clerk and recorder of public docu- Further reasons foi ments; Wm. Johnson was elected sheriff; Laderoot, the advice of Lieuter Billique, and McCarty, constables; and Gervais, the time ripe for estal Cannon, Robert Moore, and L. H. Judson, justices rather counseled thai of the peace. Of this meeting David Leslie was be more serviceable i chosen chairman. Hines says, " In add But beyond probating and disposing of the prop- squadron were consul *A meeting had already been held on the 7th looking to civil or- the country into a ci, ganization, and was a good preparation for that of the 18th. be decidedly opposed THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 237

settlement. After the erty of Ewing Young this effort at organizing a civil concluded, the need of authority was suffered to lapse. As stated by Gus- linister the estate was tavus Hines, " The origin of the attempt to form a ir the next day to con- sort of provisional government was the removal by inted to be held at the death of the late Ewing Young, leaving, as he did, a vas well attended, and large and unsettled estate, with no one to administer ecially among those not it, and no law to control its administration. The exi- ssion or the Company, gency of the case having been met by the appoint- ority should be estab- ment of a judge with probate powers, who entered vas decided to appoint immediately upon his duties, and disposed of the es- tution and draft a code tate of Ewing Young to the entire satisfaction of the listed of the following: community; and the fact that some of the most in- Jason Lee, Gustavus fluential citizens of the country, and especially some pierre, M. Charlevaux, of the legislative committee, were averse to the idea Wm. Johnson. Choice of establishing a permanent organization so long as deferred, the compli- the peace and harmony of the community could pos- ,he Hudson's Bay peo- sibly be preserved without it, the subject was per- )rincipal object now in mitted to die away, and the committee for drafting a tdicial authority which constitution and code of laws did not meet according in consent. Dr. Ira L. to instructions, nor did the meeting at which they chosen supreme judge; were expected to report ever take place. " corder of public docu- Further reasons for deferring action were found in *ted sheriff; Laderoot, the advice of Lieutenant Wilkes, who did not think tables; and Gervais, the time ripe for establishing a local government; he L. H. Judson, justices rather counseled that a petition to Congress would ing David Leslie was be more serviceable in obtaining what they desired. Hines says, " In addition to this, the officers of this Disposing of the prop- squadron were consulted on the subject of organizing

1 the 7th looking to civil or- the country into a civil compact, and were found to for that of the 18th. be decidedly opposed to the scheme, and recommend- t"11- - -I - I -

THE GROWTH OF 238 THE GROWTH OF ed that the subject be allowed to rest. They en- couraged the people in the belief that the United States Government would probably soon extend ju- risdiction over the country. But while " suffered to rest " the discussion and the thought that the move- ment had called forth, acted to familiarize all the Americans in Oregon with the first principles of civil organization. The Oregon community did for a time assume by general agreement the functions of gov- ernment, and having disposed of the business in hand, laid aside the authority with which they had performed the act. Within a short time, as we shall see, they again assumed governmental functions. Quiet discussion was held by some of the settlers with officers or attaches of the Wilkes' Expedition, as to the best procedure in case a permanent local gov- ernment organization was to be effected, and many valuable suggestions were gained. The use to which they at length placed the property of Young, that of building a jail, was also significant; indicating that the people contemplated permanent occupation of Oregon, and to enforce good order. It is a satis- faction, however, as has recently been remarked by Governor Geer, that the funds thus obtained were held as rather a trust than a tax; and upon finding an heir, Joaquin Young, of California, this was re- turned. As to the outcome of the first effort to establish a provisional government, J. Quinn Thornton has said: " I have explored all the known and even sus- THE GROWTH OF

Lldowed to rest. They en- the belief that the United I probably soon extend ju- y. But while " suffered to the thought that the move- cted to familiarize all the [ the first principles of civil .community did for a time . nent the functions of gov- iposed of the business in ority with which they had . n a short time, as we shall governmental functions. by some of the settlers with Wilkes' Expedition, as to. ie a permanent local gov- ito be effected, and many I gained. The use to which, )roperty of Young, that of ignificant; indicating that permanent occupation of eethykbeen remarked by funds thus obtained were i a tax; and upon finding ood order. It is a satis- )f California, this was re- 11J.~firstthe Quinn known effort Thornton toand establish even sus-has a

AN AMERICAN STATE 239 pected sources of authority for the purpose of learn- ing whether the meeting proposed for October was held. Even tradition furnishes no evidence of its having been held, and the inference therefore is that it was not. And this is rendered nearly certain by the fact that the committee appointed to confer with Commodore Wilkes and Dr. McLoughlin abandoned all further ideas of organizing a civil government for the time being because, in a conference with these gentlemen, they were found to be decidedly opposed to the scheme, and they recommended that the sub- ject be allowed to rest, ... believing as they did that the moral sense of right and wrong by which the people had hitherto been held together as a com- munity, was sufficient for all the legitimate ends of government among a people who were so few in num- ber and so simple in their manners. ... But the American agricultural settlers were greatly disap- pointed. .. . It was not difficult to see what molded Dr. McLoughlin's opinion, as the represent- ative of the Hudson's Bay Company, which then had the absolute control of the country, and it was de- sirable to keep and control it to the end; which [end] they were sharp-sighted enough to see would very soon be arrived at through the natural result of events which would certainly follow the organization of civil government." Another event of great importance to young Ore- gon, in 1841-remembering the visit of the Wilkes' Expedition, the building and sailing of the " Star of 240 THE GROWTH OF' AN AMERICAN S

Oregon," the arrival of the Independent mission- bers of the mission t aries and Rocky Mountain men, and the first discus- new situation; some sion and endeavor as to forming the local government as possible to the ides as among the number-was the departure of Dr. dians,* others seeing Elijah White east. The services of this missionary sionary and educatio- still others concludin doctor have been spoken of indifferently by almost them to establish horE all the writers on Oregon history. Bancroft and ness, and establish s( Gray alike speak of him as vain and pompous, and *The Indian even otherwise objectionable; and by H. K. word ChemE Hines, variously pronounced, is stat in his " Missionary History," White is scarcely and accords in signification i mentioned. term, meaning peace-the Sa as 1840 as Soon a millsite for th after the arrival of the " great reinforce- here dashing over the gravell, ment " of 1840, dissensions arose among the Metho- reaches and wears the genera This dist missionaries, which to the historian are quite water power, which has - first determined the locatio explicable. Dr. McLoughlin mentions this period slightly sloping plain itself A of missionary development rather drily as follows: sites. " It is but justice to these The change in location o pioneers to say that no tioned by H. K. Hines: "D men, in my opinion, could exert themselves more made that had such a bearir zealously than they did until 1840, when they re- that they require special mn Indian Manual Labor Scho ceived a large reinforcement of forty or more per- 'Chemekete,' near where the sons; then the newcomers began to neglect their erection of a dwelling house i duties, discord sprung of course, the removal of the up among them, and the mis- which Mr. Lee had chosen for sion broke up." miles southward. The mill, The simple fact was that this large party came to dence were the first building Salem, the capital of the Sta Oregon under a double purpose; partly for conduct- under the direction of SMr. L( ing missionary work, and partly for settlement. It in the condition, prospects ar giving was clear to direction to the work c none of them when coming, nor for some of a character and stvle to i time afterward, what their work was to be. Differ- felt assured that the country ences of opinion began to and cabins and entering the i arise, as the different mem- school houses." rVol. 1] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 241

Le Independent mission- bers of the mission tried to adjust themselves to the men, and the first discus- new situation; some endeavoring to keep as closely aing the local government as possible to the idea of missionary work to the In- is the departure of Dr. dians,* others seeing that the greater need was mis- rvices of this missionary sionary and educational work for the whites; and still others concluding that here was the place for I indifferently by almost them to establish homes, engage in farming or busi- history. Bancroft and ness, and establish some sort of government order vain and pompous, and *The Indian word Chemekete, or Chemeketa, or Chemukta, as e; and by H. K. Hines, variously pronounced, is stated by Hines to mean, " Here we Rest "- Iry," White is scarcely and accords in signification with the Anglicised form of the Hebrew term, meaning peace-the Salem of to-day. It was selected as early as 1840 as a milIsite for the mission, the swift stream Mill Creek If the " great reinforce- here dashing over the gravelly banks, or bluffs, where the Willamette arose among the Metho- reaches and wears the general plain, or old lake floor, of the valley. This water power, which has since been very extensively utilized, thus 'the historian are quite first determined the location of the capital; and the beautiful, in mentions this period slightly sloping plain itself was seen to afford unsurpassed building rather drily as follows: sites. The change in location of the Missionary school is thus men- pioneers to say that no tioned by H. K. Hines: "During the year 1841 some changes were I exert themselves more made that had such a bearing on the future history of the country itil 1840, when they re- that they require special mention. One was the removal of 'The Indian Manual Labor School' from the old mission station to it of forty or more per- 'Chemekete,' near where the mission mills had been erected, and the began to neglect their erection of a dwelling house not far from the school. This involved, of course, the removal of the entire missionary center from the place mong them, and the mis- which Mr. Lee had chosen for the mission farm at the first, about ten miles southward. The mill, the labor school building and the resi- dence were the first buildings erected in Chemekete, which is now this large party came to Salem, the capital of the State. They were all built by the mission lose; partly for conduct- under the direction of Mr. Lee, and they marked a distinct advance artly for settlement. It in the condition, prospects and even expectations of those who were giving direction to the work of the church in Oregon. They were all ien coming, nor for some of a character and style to indicate that those who designed them work was to be. Differ- felt assured that the country was passing out of the era of wigwams and cabins and entering the new era of painted homes and belfried se, as the different mem- school houses." [Vol. 3] F__ - r

242 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S] favorable to their undertakings. Each one was left desirable, if for nothi to interpret his own duty, or to strike out a career regularly upon the mo for himself. What seemed to McLoughlin as the sort of an officer they break up of the mission was in fact the germination malous relation that tI of American settlement. Dr. White, who bears the States was a delicate fame of being an intriguer and seeking personal as yet to propose call preferment, was defeated in his designs, and abruptly cupancy, giving the 3 terminated his connection with the mission. Gray treaty. Nor was it ad, says: " Jason Lee soon found out the character of fense to the British Gc this wolf in sheep's clothing, and presented charges ly it was devised to ap: against him for his immorality, and expelled him nite title of Sub-India] from the mission. Previous to leaving the country office White was appoin he called a public meeting and made his statements, der," or how he was and attempted to mob Mr. Lee and get the settlers Hudson 's Bay Compar to give him a character, in both of which he failed, But with this recogniti and left the country to impose upon the government federal commission to at Washington as he had done upon the mission and set about his journey a early settlers of Oregon." increased, if he were nc Nothwithstanding the shadow of this somewhat immigration of over oi lurid cloud under which he retired from his mis- the number to join thE sionary work, White retained an interest in the settle- Lancaster, who was ( ment, and in passing across the frontier found eager east when but a fev audiences to listen to his account of the land of Ore- frontier on account of gon. His arrival east from this then almost un- came later. Others oJ known country was quickly noted by Senator Linn, Lovejoy, afterward A. of Missouri, ever on the alert to learn of Oregon, and L. W. Hastings, be whose cause he had long before this espoused, and J. Shadden, J. L. Mo requested that White repair to Washington. It was Force, Hugh Burns, D~ made evident there to the government that some sort Crawford. Fifty-one Yr of resident American officer in Oregon would be very The company was to a I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 243 kings. Each one was left desirable, if for nothing else that he might report or to strike out a career regularly upon the movements of the British. What Ad to McLoughlin as the sort of an officer they might appoint under the ano- as in fact the germination malous relation that the territory bore to the United Dr. White, who bears the States was a delicate question. None seemed ready ter and seeking personal as yet to propose calling off the treaty of joint oc- a his designs, and abruptly cupancy, giving the year's notice provided in the with the mission. Gray treaty. Nor was it advisable to give occasion of of- ound out the character of fense to the British Government. Somewhat astute- ag, and presented charges ly it was devised to appoint an officer with an indefi- orality, and expelled him nite title of Sub-Indian Agent for Oregon. To this ,us to leaving the country office White was appointed. Whom he was to be "un- and made his statements, der," or how he was to divide his power with the Lee and get the settlers Hudson's Bay Company in Oregon does not appear. n both of which he failed, But with this recognition at Washington and with a pose upon the government federal commission to support his return he at once lone upon the mission and set about his journey across the plains; and largely increased, if he were not actually the organizer of an shadow of this somewhat immigration of over one hundred persons. Among he retired from his mis- the number to join the party was Judge Columbia ted an interest in the settle- Lancaster, who was obliged, however, to return ;s the frontier found eager east when but a few days' journey from the recount of the land of Ore- frontier on account of the sickness of his wife, but rom this then almost un- came later. Others of the company were A. L. ly noted by Senator Linn, Lovejoy, afterward Adjutant-General of Oregon, alert to learn of Oregon, and L. W. Hastings, both lawyers; S. W. Moss, T. before this espoused, and J. Shadden, J. L. Morrison, John Force, James ir to Washington. It was Force, Hugh Burns, Darling Smith, and Medorem government that some sort Crawford. Fifty-one men are named by the latter. r in Oregon would be very The company was to a large extent made up of rov- - N

244 THE GROWTH Of' AN AMERICAN E ing persons of the Mississippi Basin, " some of ers of William McKa whom never remained in one place longer than to three brothers had be obtain the means to travel; and of one family in McKay, to be educa particular [it was said],that theyhad practicallylived tending the medical c in a wagon for more than twenty years, only remain- The success of th( ing in one locality long enough to make one crop, little known to thesE which they had done in every State and Territory in Farnham and his OrE the Mississippi Valley." Such were excellent per- Crawford as chiefly c sons to beat the trail across the continent; though ing Fort Laramie, V those particular rovers did not prove good residents sons of Thomas Mcl of the new Territory rising on the Pacific. About marks. At this plac one-third went the next year to California; some trading post-or ratl coming back again to Oregon. longing to the Ame] As to his first interest in the immigration to Ore- other to Sybile and gon Mr. Crawford has said: " In the spring of 1842 that it would be a pi Elijah White, an old acquaintance of our family, who further without a gui4 had spent three years in Oregon, connected with the per, Captain Fitzpatri Methodist mission, visited my father's house in the and was induced for tI village of Havana, N. Y., and told us of Oregon, its to guide the party to rich soil, mild climate and beautiful scenery. He by Dr. White. Anoth( had just been appointed ' Sub-Agent of Indian Af- young man from Can fairs, west of the Rocky Mountains,' and was, I be- for some time by Sybil lieve, the first Indian agent ever appointed by our ing among the Sioux government for the Pacific Coast. He being about Xavier Matthieu, a nu to start overland to Oregon, I at once decided to ac- and one of those " pa company him, and on the 17th day of March, with agitation and finally thi Dr. White, Nathaniel Crocker, Alexander McKay of the Canadians, in th and John McKay, left home for the first time in my had escaped to the Un life, never previously having been out of my native life of Indian trader. State. The McKays were natives of Oregon, broth- trappers from the Blac THE GROWTH OP' AN AMERICAN STATE 245 ers of William issippi Basin, " some of McKay, known by many of you. The one place longer than to three brothers had been sent by their father, Thomas 31; and of one family in McKay, to be educated, and William was then at- It they had practically lived tending the medical college at Geneva, N. Y." -wenty years, only remain- The success of the immigration over a route as nough to make one crop, little known to these emigrants as it had been to ,ry State and Territory in Farnham and his Oregon Dragoons, is attributed by Such were excellent per- Crawford as chiefly due to White. But after reach- )ss the continent; though ing Fort Laramie, White and the two young men, I not prove good residents sons of Thomas McKay, could not trace the land- ig on the Pacific. About marks. At this place, not then a military, but a rear to California; some trading post-or rather two trading posts-one be- )n. longing to the American Fur Company, and the a the immigration to Ore- other to Sybile and Richard-it became apparent L: " In the spring of 1842 that it would be a piece of recklessness to proceed intance of our family, who further without a guide. Opportunely the old trap- ~regon, connected with the per, Captain Fitzpatrick, happened to be at the fort my father's house in the and was induced for the sum of five hundred dollars and told us of Oregon, its to guide the party to Fort Hall. He was employed d beautiful scenery. He by Dr. White. Another fur trader found here was a Sub-Agent of Indian Af- young man from Canada, who had been employed [ountains,' and was, I be- for some time by Sybile and Richard as a clerk, trad- at ever appointed by our ing among the Sioux Indians. This was Francis c Coast. He being about Xavier Matthieu, a native of Terrebonne, Canada, a, I at once decided to ac- and one of those " patriots " who took part in the 17th day of March, with agitation and finally the rebellion for the equal rights icker, Alexander McKay of the Canadians, in the movement of Papineau. He ie for the first time in my had escaped to the United States, and taken up the ng been out of my native life of Indian trader. Matthieu, with a party of natives of Oregon, broth- trappers from the Black Hills, where they had spent

A r-7 -r

246 THE GROWTH OF

the previous winter, found the Oregon immigrants at the post, and immediately made up his mind that now was his chance to begin life in a more settled community. Crawford says: " Here we were joined by my friend, F. X. Matthieu, and three others; and I doubt if any individuals ever started to Oregon on shorter notice, or with less baggage. It was a marvelous thing to my inexperienced mind to see men coolly mount their ponies; and with no provision or outfit other than a buffalo robe, a gun and a tin cup, each, start off on a journey to an unknown coun- try, hundreds of miles distant, requiring long months of travel." As will be seen later, Matthieu, who had been trained in American ideas by an admirer of re- publican institutions in his boyish school days, and had ardently desired, and all but fatally struggled to see them realized in his native land, became a most important actor in reaching something of the free government in which he believed in Oregon. Mat- thieu was also of much assistance to the emigrants, as he was well acquaited with the Indians and knew how to preserve their good will. This came in with F The last survivor of those who good result at Independence Rock, where a band of Go, some fire hundred Sioux overtook and captured Hast- ings and Lovejoy,whohad lingered behind thewagons in order to cut their names upon the face of the cliff. At Matthieu's suggestion the trainwas halted until the Indians, in wild fashion, arrived with the creastfallen prisoners, and demanded a good ransom, which was given, and the prisoners were released. A few days THE GROWTH OF d the Oregon immigrants ily made up his mind that gin life in a more settled s: " Here we were joined ieu, and three others; and s ever started to Oregon less baggage. It was a Lexperienced mind to see ies" and with no provision alo robe, a gun and a tin rney to an unknown coun- mnt, requiring long months Llater, Matthieu, who had deas by an admirer of re- boyish school days, and 11 but fatally struggled to Etve land, became a most ig something of the free elieved in Oregon. Mat- ;istance to the emigrants, ith the Indians and knew I will. This came in with F. X. MATfHEIJ ?b. lat survor ot thou Who parteipated In the ftlrfmat of the PVrWvsMn ,e Rock, where a band of Go0eraout at Oregon. ~,rtook and captured Hast- Lugered behind the wagons upon the face of the cliff. e train was halted until the lived with the creastf alien good ransom, which was ,re released. A few days

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AN AMERICAN STATE 247

later a much larger band, or a number of bands, of Sioux and Blackfeet, overtook the train, which had to be halted and inspected by the savages; and many presents were asked and given. Among other things ardently craved by the great chief was a handsome daughter of one of the pioneers; which it required some circumspection to refuse without giving of- fense. True to their traditions, as shown as early as the days of Lewis and Clark, when his Sioux visi- tors desired a " little of the great father's milk," these Indians begged incessantly for whisky, and could not be persuaded that it was not one of the chief articles carried in the wagons. On Green River a part of the baggage and wagons was discarded; and at Fort Hall all the wagons were taken down and sold to the commandant, or cut up to make pack saddles for horses or oxen, and the company was divided up into small parties, which came on as they could to Oregon City. The latter stretch of the journey is described by Crawford as the most difficult. He says: " From Walla Walla to the Willamette Falls occupied about twenty days, and, all things considered, was the hardest part of the journey; what with the drifting sands, rocky cliffs and rapid streams along the Columbia River, and the gorges, torrents, and thickets of the Cascade Mountains, it seems incredible how, with our worn out and emaciated animals, we ever reached our des- tination. On the 5th of October, our little party, tired, ragged and hungry, arrived at the falls, now F_*_=MMmk -- _.-_ 1,11 - , I I -

248 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI

Oregon City, where we found the first habitations to this land was an er west of the Cascade Mountains. Here several members credit is not generally of the Methodist mission were located. Our gratifi- ence their presence an cation on arriving safely after so long and perilous tening and facilitating a journey was shared by these hospitable people, It was as a missionary each of whom seemed anxious to give us hearty wel- knowledge of the couni come, and render us every assistance in his power." him to apply for, and There was no apprehension felt on account of the of roving commission Indians from Fort Hall westward, and no precautions the Rocky Mountains, against them were taken, nor were these little sec- enable him to make the tions of the fagged American company molested. appointment being mad On the contrary they traveled among the Nez Perces tier, he gained accessio: and Cayuses and Walla Wallas as among any com- presence gave us confide munity of white people, and depended upon them for tion from the traders, salmon and other supplies, which could be obtained have a guide and inter] at trifling expense. Whitman's, to these as to the Fort Hall, without who earlier party of Farnham and Shortess, and the mi- plished the journey. T] grating mountain men and independent missionaries, for Oregon was extei was an oasis of abundance in the wilderness, where mented upon throughou they " were most hospitably received, and supplied safe arrival here was re with flour and vegetables. " Here, as vividly recalled returned that fall and by Crawford, was the first bread tasted since he left gration had the knowlb Fort Laramie-buffalo and salmon having been the safely preceded them. ' staples from that point. and advice of Dr. Whiti To the missionaries, with their stations and their guide and counsel there active efforts in promoting immigration to Oregon, would give credit indire( Crawford is disposed to give large credit for the for the successful jouri settlement of this territory. He says: " While I of 1842, and directly to agree with the generally accepted opinion that the arrival of the large an( primary object for which the missionaries were sent 1843, which practically so THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 249 and the first habitations to this land was an entire failure, still I think just as. Here several members credit is not generally accorded them for the influ- ere located. Our gratifi- ence their presence and establishments had in has- Eter so long and perilous tening and facilitating the settlement of the country. these hospitable people, It was as a missionary that Dr. White acquired his *usto give us hearty wel- knowledge of the country of'Oregon, which induced %ssistancein his power. " him to apply for, and enabled him to obtain a kind on felt on account of the of roving commission as Sub-Indian agent west of bward, and no precautions the Rocky Mountains, and a few hundred dollars to ior were these little sec- enable him to make the trip across the continent. His ican company molested. appointment being made public on the western fron- ed among the Nez Perces tier, he gained accessions to our company, while his illas as among any com- presence gave us confidence, secured to us considera- depended upon them for tion from the traders, and above all, enabled us to which could be obtained have a guide and interpreter from Fort Laramie to ian's, to these as to the Fort Hall, without whom we could not have accom- nd Shortess, and the mi- plished the journey. The departure of our company ndependent missionaries, for Oregon was extensively published and com- in the wilderness, where mented upon throughout the western States, and our y received, and supplied safe arrival here was reported by Dr. Whitman, who Here, as vividly recalled returned that fall and winter; hence the next emi- Dread tasted since he left gration had the knowledge that one company had salmon having been the safely preceded them. They also had the experience and advice of Dr. Whitman and General Lovejoy to their stations and their guide and counsel them on their journey. Thus I immigration to Oregon, would give credit indirectly to the Methodist mission ive large credit for the for the successful journey of the first immigration He says: "While I of 1842, and directly to Dr. Whitman for the safe *cepted opinion that the arrival of the large and influential immigration of e missionaries were sent 1843, which practically settled the question of occupa- f

250 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN

tion by American citizens of this then disputed ter- their corner to guar. ritory. " the " heroic many ' While this is a generous, and probably just, esti- sissippi to the Pacif mate of one well acquainted by experience with the With this inmigrn subject, the effort to emphasize the work of the mis- Willamette Valley , sionaries to the exclusion of others, or to claim the preponderatingly A: credit of one mission body to the discredit of others, had been entertaine( is a partiality to which the historian will not lend lamette would gro'w his approval. These little, thin, and often detached ment, consisting chie and dispersed bands of men and women, pushing Fur Company and their way out across the plains and over the moun- tives, with French I tains, the first scarcely perceptible columns of civil- ing, and mingled w ized life, were detachments of American life, with the medium of thong] all its multiple characters and beliefs, such as will ing away. This was grow and flourish in a free country, and where all with white women as that is in man is thus induced to express itself in life. and American in edu It was this very multiplicity and variety that en- theless this was to be abled Americans to occupy the breadth of the conti- In order that the ex nent. The religious life of the Americans could not better understood it be dispensed with in accomplishing the result; nor list and short account could any shade of religous persuasion and convic- Canadian, and Ameri( tion be found supernumerary. Lee and White, the gon at the close of the Methodists; Whitman, the Presbyterian; Clarke, the Congregationalist; Le Breton and Matthieu, of 1805.-" One of thes( Catholic training and predilections, were all found was De Loar, liv indispensable in securing Oregon for the United Lewis and Clark States; and the mountain men, Lovejoy, the attor- in 1805, and subs ney; Crawford, who had no particular religious Hudson's Bay Co] preferences; Young and Smith, who were hardly years enjoyed th, persuaded not to manufacture " Blue Ruin," had taut.' "-J. W. N THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 251

of this then disputed ter- their corner to guard, or their tower to scale. It was the " heroic many " that led the way from the Mis- s, and probably just, esti- sissippi to the Pacific. ed by experience with the With this immigration it became apparent that the Lasize the work of the mis- Willamette Valley was already, or soon would be, of others, or to claim the preponderatingly American. Whatever expectation to the discredit of others, had been entertained that on the banks of the Wil- he historian will not lend lamette would grow up another Red River settle- ^,thin, and often detached ment, consisting chiefly of old servants of the British men and women, pushing Fur Company and a mixed population of half-na- plains and over the moun- tives, with French blood and language predomina- reeptible columns of civil- ing, and mingled with the Indian jargon forming Lts of American life, with 9 the medium of thought and speech, was rapidly pass- 3 and beliefs, such as will ing away. This was to be chiefly a white population, ee country, and where all with white women as well as men; English in speech, ced to express itself in life. and American in education and aspirations. Never- icity and variety that en- theless this was to be tested. y the breadth of the conti- In order that the events of the next chapter may be f the Americans could not better understood it is convenient to place here a )mplishing the result; nor list and short account of all the men, British, French- )us persuasion and convic- Canadian, and American living in the bounds of Ore- rary. Lee and White, the gon at the close of the year 1842. -he Presbyterian; Clarke, I think his name e Breton and Matthieu, of 1805.-" One of these Canadians, adilections, were all found was De Loar, lived near Campoeg, was one of Clark's party that came to Oregon > Oregon for the UJnited Lewis and a men, Lovejoy, the attor- in 1805, and subsequently returned here in the Ad no particular religious Hudson's Bay Company's service, and for many Smith, who were hardly years enjoyed the appellation ' Oldest inhabi- acture " Blue Ruin," had tant.' "-J. W. Nesmith, 1875. ii~¶ f~f¶1?hTVV.~l ______

252 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S'

1805.-" Philip Degie, born at Sorel, Canada, in Antoine Revoii 1739, died February 27, 1847, aged 108 years. French Prairie. This oldest inhabitant first crossed the continent Dubruill farme with Lewis and Clark. '-Willard H. Rees, 1879. 1818.- [Whether the " De Loar " and the " Degie " Astoria and C were the same person; and whether it was family. Philip Degie, who lived on French Prairie, or William Latta his father that crossed the continent with Lewis Astoria; reputed and Clark, are matters of conjecture. But Rees ability. is more probably correct.-ED.]. John Scarboroi 1811.-Thomas McKay, Hudson's Bay Company, Hudson's Bay captain; owned farm on Scappoose; arrived on Scarborough's " Tonquin "; sons, Alexander, John, William, Peter Skeen O0 and Donald; wife, native woman of the Chi- Judge Ogden; F nook nation. McLoughlin's ret Michael La Framboise, on " Tonquin "; far- 1824.-Dr. John McL mer on the Willamette. ada; Chief Facto 1812.-Joseph Gervais, arrived with Wilson P. entire Oregon an( Hunt; farmer at Chemayway; wife, Yaimast, moved to OregoT daughter of Kobaiway; son, Joseph. widow of Alexan Louis Labonte, arrived with Hunt; farmer at Joseph, now of SI Chemayway; wife, Kilakotah, daughter of James Douglas Kobaiway; son, Louis, Jr. dies; stationed ii Etienne Lucier, from Canada, arrived wifh Vancouver; aftei Hunt; farmer at Chewewa, credited by Mc- the Peace for Car Loughlin as the first settler; native wife; a enor of British Co daughter, Felicite, married to Donald Manson. Nellie, daughter o William Cannon, from Pennsylvania, mill- at Victoria. wright; lived at ~French Prairie and Van- 1829.-Felix Hathawa couver. chusetts; arrived THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 253 a at Sorel, Canada, in Antoine Revoir (e), from Canada, farmer on ', 1847, aged 108 years. French Prairie. rst crossed the continent Dubruill farmer, on French Prairie. -Willard I H. Rees, 1879.. 1818.-James Birnie, from ; lived at ar " and the " Degie " Astoria and Cathlamet; native wife and ; and whether it was family. I on French Prairie, or William Latta, from Scotland; trader at he continent with Lewis Astoria; reputed as a man of great native f conjecture. But Rees ability. *t.-ED.] John Scarborough, from England; pilot for idson's Bay Company, Hudson's Bay Company on the Columbia. L Scappoose; arrived on Scarborough's Hill " named for him. ,xander, John, William, Peter Skeen Ogden, from Montreal; son of ive woman of the Chi- Judge Ogden; Factor and Chief Factor after McLoughlin's retirement at Vancouver. e, on " Tonquin "; far- 1824.-Dr. John McLoughlin, born at Quebec, Can- ada; Chief Factor at Fort Vancouver over the rived with Wilson P. entire Oregon and New Caledonia district; re- ,ayway; wife, Yaimast, moved to Oregon City, where he died; wife, son, Joseph. widow of Alexander McKay; sons, John, Jr.; I with Hunt; farmer at Joseph, now of Spokane, Wash. ilakotah, daughter of James Douglas, born in Jamaica, West In- rr. dies; stationed in New Caledonia and at Fort Canada, arrived with Vancouver; afterward at Victoria; Justice of vewa, credited by Mc- the Peace for Canada, in Oregon, and first Gov- ettler; native wife; a enor of ; also knighted; wife, ad to Donald Manson. Nellie, daughter of Wm. Connell; family living m Pennsylvania, mill- at Victoria. ch Prairie and Van- 1829.-Felix Hathaway, American, probably Massa- chusetts; arrived with Captain Thompson, on -- --gr-

254 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STX the schooner " Convoy, " at same time as wreck California with Ewi of the Hudson's Bay vessel "William and Prairie; erected gr Ann "; farmer, lived in east Chehalem. J ohn McCarty; 1832.-Solomon Howard Smith, from New Hamp- from California, lee shire; arrived with Nathaniel J. Wyeth; was dis- Joseph Gale, Am charged at Fort Vancouver, and opened a school Young; finished, a] there-John Ball having taught a few weeks Oregon "; settled 4 previously; also taught school at Chemayway; afterward at the foc settled near the mouth of the Chehalem; after- branch of the Tuala ward lived at , where he died; 1836.-W. H. Gray, froi wife, Helen Celiast, daughter of Kobaiway; son, the American Boar, Silas B. Smith, and two daughters. in Willamette Valle, Calvin Tibbitts, from Maine; arrived with Astoria; wife, Mar, Wyeth; stonecutter; settled near Chemayway, Marcus Whitmai and afterward on Clatsop Plains; native wife, York; missionary of the Clatsop tribe. tioned at Waiilatpu, Seargeant. north of Walla W 1834.-Jason Lee, from Canada, but of American dians, 1847; wife, N family; established first mission at Chemayway. daughter, Alice C] Twice married. Walla River. Courtney M. Walker; arrived with W. Lee, H. H. Spalding, I as secular agent; was employed by Wyeth as sionary of America] keeper of Fort William on Sauvie 's Island; Idaho; wife, Eliza' later bought Gale's place on East Tualatin; Henry Spalding, of. moved at length to Tillamook County. Mrs. Warren, of Bri T. J. Hubbard; arrived with Wyeth; settled 1837.-By American ba near the point now called " Hubbard. " White, from New Ye James A. O'Neil; arrived with Wyeth; set- cian; returned eas tled west of Willamette River. ment as Sub-India Webley Hauxhurst; arrived in autumn from time overland to Oi THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 255

"at same time as wreck California with Ewing Young; settled on French vessel " William and Prairie; erected gristmill. n east Chehalem. John McCarty; came with Cattle Company nith, from New Hamp- from California, led by Ewing Young, 1837. Laniel J. Wyeth; was dis- Joseph Gale, American; axrived with Ewing ver, and opened a school Young; finished, and was captain of " Star of ig taught a few weeks Oregon "; settled on east Tualatin Plains, and b school at Chemayway; afterward at the foot of Gale's Peak, on the west of the Chehalem; after- branch of the Tualatin. Plains, where he died; 1836.-W. H. Gray, from New York; missionary of ghter of Kobaiway; son, the American Board; settled at Alpowa; later ) daughters. in Willamette Valley, and on Clatsop Plains, and a Maine; arrived with Astoria; wife, Mary Dix, of New York. Attled near Chemayway, Marcus Whitman, Massachusetts and New op Plains; native wife, York; missionary of American Board; sta- tioned at Waiilatpu, now Whitman's, seven miles north of Walla Walla; killed by Cayuse In- nada, but of American dians, 1847; wife, Narcissa Prentiss, New York; mission at Chemayway. daughter, Alice Clarissa, drowned in Walla Walla River. arrived with W. Lee, H. H. Spalding, from New York State; mis- employed by Wyeth as sionary of American Board; settled at Lapwai, mn on Sauvie 's Island; Idaho; wife, Eliza Hart, New York State; son, ace on East Tualatin; Henry Spalding, of Penawawa; daughter, Eliza, mook County. Mrs. Warren, of Brownsville, Ore. ed with Wyeth; settled 1837.-By American bark "Diana ": Dr. Elijah 1" Hubbard.," White, from New York State; missionary physi- rived with Wyeth; set- cian; returned east 1841; received appoint- River. ment as Sub-Indian agent; came the second arrived in autumn from time overland to Oregon, 1842; wife and child,

* -. Frrv~TmI11~ftiM

I

256 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S9 from New York; a son drowned in the Colum- Mary Richardson bia River. can Board; stati( , missionary; with wife. er's Prairie, neai W. H. Willson, missionary; settled at Mis- daughter. sion and Salem. Rev. Cushing lE J. Whitcomb, missionary; settled near Salem. American Board; Anna Maria Pittman, married to Jason Lee. sons now living. Susan Downing, married to Cyrus Shepard. James Conner, (Shepard deceased, 1841.) Rocky Mountains. H. K. W. Perkins, second reenforcement; mis- Richard Willian sionary; Dalles. Rev. F. N. Blan( Rev. David Leslie; with wife and three daugh- ary; stationed at ters. Prairie. Miss Margaret Smith, missionary. Rev. Modeste E Miss E. Johnson, missionary. sionary: Vancouv( Dr. W. J. Bailey, from California, with Tur- litz Plain. ner, an Englishman; physician; lived many 1839.-Rev. J. S. Griff years near Champoeg, where he also died. land; married at George Gay, sailor from England, left ship at sionary: fitted out Monterey; trapped with Ewing Young; came Litchfield, Conn., P to Oregon with Turner; settled near Dayton, on tin Plains. Salem road; built first brick dwelling. Asahel Munger, John Turner, an American, Rocky Mountain ranged, and died b' man; came first in party of Jedediah Smith to latin Plains. Oregon; escaped massacre from Umpqua In- Robert Shortess, dians-but four surviving from a party of eight- tied near Astoria. een; made second trip to Oregon, 1837; barely E. 0. Hall, from escaped from Rogue River Indians; died in Cali- printing press. fornia by accidental discharge of his own gun. Sidney W. Smitl 1838.-Rev. , from Maine; and wife, St. Louis; settled from Peoria, Ill., w [Vol. 3] F I I

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 257

1 drowned in the Colum- Mary Richardson Walker; missionary of Ameri- can Board; stationed at Tshimikain, or Walk- onary; with wife. er's Prairie, near Spokane; seven sons, one 3ionary; settled at Mis- daughter. Rev. Cushing Eells, and wife, missionary of iary; settled near Salem. American Board; settled at Tshimikain; two ,married to Jason Lee. sons now living. rried to Cyrus Shepard. James Conner, native wife and child; from :1.) Rocky Mountains. 3ond reenforcement; mis- Richard Williams, from Rocky Mountains. Rev. F. N. Blanchet, Roman Catholic mission- ith wife and three daugh- ary; stationed at Fort Vancouver and French Prairie. a, missionary. Rev. Modeste Demers, Roman Catholic mis- ssionary. sionary: Vancouver, French Prairie, and Cow- Dm California, with Tur- litz Plain. physician; lived many 1839.-Rev. J. S. Griffin, from Ohio and New Eng- where he also died. land; married at St. Louis; Independent mis- rom England, left ship at sionary: fitted out by Congregationalists of the 4th Ewing Young; came Litchfield, Conn., Association; settled on Tuala- ; settled near Dayton, on tin Plains. brick dwelling. Asahel Munger, and wife; Munger became de- aerican, Rocky Mountain ranged, and died by suicide at his home on Tua- rty of Jedediah Smith to latin Plains. sacre from Umpqua In- Robert Shortess, American from Illinois; set- ing from a party of eight- tled near Astoria. to Oregon, 1837; barely E. 0. Hall, from Sandwich Islands; with first ver Indians; died in Cali- printing press. icharge of his own gun. Sidney W. Smith, American, from Illinois or or, from Maine; and wife, St. Louis; settled in Chehalem Valley; started from Peoria, Ill., with Farnham. rvol. 3] -4

258 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Si

Richard H. Eakin, native of England; born the Methodist Mi 1817; arrived with Captain J. H. Couch, after Lee. making two trips around the world; settled in Rev. J. H. Frosl Willamette Valley; married a native woman, Rev. A. F. Walk raised and educated a large family; saddler and gon City. farmer. Rev. W. H. Kon John H. Couch, from Newburyport, Mass.; Rev. Gustavus ] arrived first in brig " Maryland "; settled sub- qua. sequently at Portland, occupying" Couch's Ad- Rev. L. H. Jud dition " as his donation claim. settled later on Clh G. W. LeBreton, arrived on the "Maryland"; Rev. J. L. Par] was killed in an affray with Indians; Cockstock 's blacksmith; stati( difficulty at Oregon City. later at Salem; oni William Johnson, an English sailor, who be- Rev. G. P. Richn came an American sailor on the "Constitution"; stationed at Fort I settled in what is now south Portland; native Rev. A. P. Olley family. George Abernet John McCadden, mentioned as coming to Ore- children; statione gon on " Maryland," but probably not remain- engaged in businesi ing. Governor under Pi Richard McCary, an English sailor, but com-- H. Campbell, wif ing over the Rocky Mountains. W. 'W. Raymon( Wm. Geiger, from western New York; ar- Mission; entered rived with William Johnson, author of " The service; settled o: Prairie Flower," and Lawson and Keiser; went Point. to California, but returned, and was at Whit- H. B. Brewer an man's, winter of 1842. I. L. Babcock anuc 1840.-Arrival of the " Lausanne," Captain Spald- as physician at ti ing, with the " Great Reinforcement " for judge, under the tei THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 259 lative of England; born the Methodist Mission, returning with Jason ptain J. H. Couch, after Lee. ad the world; settled in Rev. J. H. Frost and wife; Clatsop Plains. arried a native woman, Rev. A. F. Waller and wife, two children; Ore- irge family; saddler and gon City. Rev. W. H. Kone and wife; Clatsop Plains. m Newburyport, Mass.; Rev. Gustavus Hines, wife and sister; Ump- Aaryland "; settled sub- qua. )ccupying" Couch's Ad- Rev. L. H. Judson, wife and two children; Lclaim. settled later on Clatsop Plains. ved on the "Maryland"; Rev. J. L. Parrish, wife and two children; vith Indians; Cockstock 's blacksmith; stationed at Clatsop Plains, and r. later at Salem; one of the founders of Salem. English sailor, who be- Rev. G. P. Richmond, wife and three children; r on the "Constitution"; stationed at . south Portland; native Rev. A. P. Olley and wife; at the Mission. George Abernethy, steward; wife and two ftioned as coming to Ore- children; stationed at the Mission, afterward )ut probably not remain- engaged in business at Oregon City; became first Governor under Provisional Government. English sailor, but com-_ H. Campbell, wife and one child. mtains. WV. W. Raymond and wife; employed at the western New York; ar- Mission; entered s-aosequently into the Indian ,hnson, author of " The service; settled on Clatsop Plains, or Tanzy iawson and Keiser; went Point. rned, and was at Whit- H. B. Brewer and wife. I. L. Babcock and wife; Babcock was stationed [sanne," Captain Spald- as physician at the Mission; was appointed Lt Reinforcement " for judge, under the temporary government of 1841. - - . -- Th I

260 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

Miss Elmira Phillips; married subsequently Mountains; settlec to WV. W. Raymond. tive family; daug Miss Amira Phelps, married to Joseph Hol- the Whitman mass man; residing near Salem. Caleb Wilkins, Miss C. A. Clark. settled on east Tua Miss Maria T. Ware, married to Daniel Lee. Dr. Robert Nev Miss Orpha Lankton, married to David Carter. tains; settled on Rev. Harvey Clarke from New England; In- Champoeg. dependent missionary; settled at length on west William M. Do Tualatin Plains; organized a Congregational Mountains; settled Church; became the principal founder of Pa- of Chehalem Moun cific University. John Larrison, J Alvin T. Smith, from New England; settled tled in Chehalem I on the west Tualatin. homestead. With P. B. Littlejohn, Independent missionary; on Guerre; Larrison I Tualatin Plains. Phillip Thompso Robert Moore, from Peoria, Ill.; settled at native (probably), " Robin's Nest," west side of Willamette Falls. the Shoshone India Amos Cook, from Peoria, Ill.; settled at fords Thompson's arriva of the Yamhill, near present town of Lafayette. G. W. Ebberts, Francis Fletcher, of the Peoria party; settled Rocky Mountain n on the Yamhill River, between Lafayette and sons and daughters Dayton, as at present. 1841.-This year arrive Joseph Holman, of the Peoria party, settled at of the Puget Sound the Mission; subsequently went into business at number of these so Salem. Valley-Monroe, Bi Rev. P. J. De Smet, Roman Catholic mission- Flett were probably ary; stationed at Kalispel and in the Rocky Englishman, with a Mountains. from the Nisqually Joseph L. Meek, from Virginia and the Rocky Hudson's Bay Coni THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 261

,; married subsequently Mountains; settled on east Tualatin Plains; na- tive family; daughter, Helen Mar, perished in married to Joseph Hol- the . em. Caleb Wilkins, from the Rocky Mountains; settled on east Tualatin Plains; native family. married to Daniel Lee. Dr. Robert Newell, from the Rocky Moun- married to David Carter. tains; settled on east Tualatin, and later at from New England; In. Champoeg. settled at length on west William M. Doty (Doughty), from Rocky nized a Congregational Mountains; settled in west Chehalem, at the foot rincipal founder of Pa- of Chehalem Mountain; native wife and family. John Larrison, from Rocky Mountains; set- li New England; settled tled in Chehalem Valley, above Sidney Smith's homestead. With Larrison lived Baptist De *pendent missionary; on Guerre; Larrison had native wife and one child. Phillip Thompson, from Rocky Mountains, a Peoria, Ill.; settled at native (probably) of ; native wife of side of Willamette Falls. the Shoshone Indians; several children (date of )ria, Ell.; settled at fords Thompson's arrival is not very certain). esent town of Lafayette. G. W. Ebberts, settled on east Tualatin; he Peoria party; settled Rocky Mountain man; native family; several between Lafayette and sons and daughters. 1841.-This year arrived a considerable immigration e Peoria party, settled at of the Puget Sound Agricultural Association. A tly went into business at number of these soon came into the Willamette Valley-Monroe, Buxton, I. M. Black, and John loman Catholic mission- Flett were probably of the number. Baldra, an .spel and in the Rocky Englishman, with an English wife, also arrived from the Nisqually, and were employed by the [ Virginia and the Rocky Hudson's Bay Company, on a north branch of

_L_ s NT

AN AMERICAN ST. 262 THE GROWTH OF later at Portland, ( the Tualatin, since called from their occupation on the street since 4 there " Dairy Creek."I* J. W. Perry, near the present town of Cen- Monroe settled Plains. treville, on same stream. Wren, also from the J. R. Robb, final Nisqually, settled here. Black settled a few Thomas Shaddei miles north of Forest Grove. turned and settled John Flett settled near Wapato Lake. Flett Darling Smith, was from the Red River Colony, and had a native Tualatin. family. 1842.-Francis W. P( 1842.-Those of this year who remained in Oregon American bark " B are as follows: laid out originally Pleasant Armstrong, settled in Yamhill account of health i County. Straits of Fuca, ai Hugh Burns, at Willamette Falls, west side, Elbridge Trask. "Multnomah City." Russell Osborn; Medorem Crawford, settled on the Yamhill, McCary, from the near Dayton. William Craig, a David Carter, settled finally on " Carter's

Heights," Portland. * "A. E. Wilson, Peter Fost2 James Force and John Force, at Oregon City; also arrived this year (1842) E tions to the country. Mr. Pett business. with him."-Brown's " Politica S. W. Moss, settled at Oregon City; by some Francis W. Pettygrove waE gaged in mercantile business; the " Prairie Flower " has been attributed to goods to bring to Oregon for his authorship. bark " Victoria " to the Hawai J. L. Morrison, settled at Oregon City, and the bark " Fama," Captain N, Oregon City by boat, establish *"A colony of about forty families arrived from the Red River ship with A. L. Lovejoy to est. settlement to colonize Puget Sound, under the auspices of the Hud- a store; went in 1851 by sea t son's Bay Company, consisting of English, Scotch and French Cana- send. dians; but they did not like the [that] country or their treatment. In 1843 the only settler on and soon settled on the Oregon side of the Columbia and were re- English sailor by the name o land" with John H. Couch], w ceived as citizens."-Brown's History. AN AMERICAN STATE 263 THE GROWTH OF later at Portland, establishing a carpenter shop ed from their occupation on the street since called for his name. J. W. Perry, settled finally on Clatsop the present town of Cen- Plains. Mn. Wren, also from the J. R. Robb, final residence at Portland. -I5 Black settled a few jrove. Thomas Shadden; went to California, but re- lar Wapato Lake. Flett turned and settled near McMinnville. Colony, and had a native Darling Smith, settled on west branch of Tualatin. who remained in Oregon 1842.-Francis W. Pettygrove, from Maine, on American bark " Fama." With A. L. Lovejoy, ,, settled in Yamhill laid out originally the site of Portland; but on account of health removed in a schooner to the lamette Falls, west side, Straits of Fuca, and laid out Port Townsend.' Elbridge Trask. settled on the Yamhill, Russell Osborn; probably arrived with Dick McCary, from the Rocky Mountains. d finally on " Carter's William Craig, also a Rocky Mountain man.

* "A. E. Wilson, Peter Foster, P. H. Hatch and F. W. Pettygrove n Force, at Oregon City; also arrived this year (1842) and all proved to be beneficial acquisi- tions to the country. Mr. Pettygrove brought a small stock of goods with him."-Brown's " Political ." it Oregon City; by some Francis W. Pettygrove was born at Calais, Me., 1812; was en- ' has been attributed to gaged in mercantile business; in 1842 accepted a consignment of goods to bring to Oregon for general trade, taking passage on the bark " Victoria " to the Hawaiian Islands; from which he came on Led at Oregon City, and the bark "Fama," Captain Nye, to Vancouver; took his goods to Oregon City by boat, established a store. In 1844 formed partner- ies arrived from the Red River ship with A. L. Lovejoy to establish a town at Portland; here built under the auspices of the Hud- a store; went in 1851 by sea to the Straits, establishing Port Town- iglish, Scotch and French Cana- send. tat] country or their treatment, In 1843 the only settler on the river below the falls was an old * of the Columbia and were re- English sailor by the name of William Johnson [1839, on " Mary- land" with John H. Couch], who resided upon a claim about a mile 264 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST]

Hudson's Bay Company's employees and agents: commandant for m. Fort Walla Walla. 1821.-Simon Plomondeau, settled in 1837 on Cowlitz Archibald McKin] Prairie; first actual settler in present limits of Fort Langley; afte Washington. Walla Walla; engi 1824 to 1828.-John Work, New Caledonia and up- City; made home iI per Columbia; Connell, New Caledonia; Dease, 1830.-Geo. B. Roberts, New Caledonia, upper Columbia. 1831.-Duncan Finlays( Francis Ermatinger, an Englishman, a jovial, mained until 1837. hearty man; entered later into American life, 1832.-Geo. T. Allen, cle becoming Treasurer under Provisional Govern- couver, afterward c ment; employed largely in the Snake River and as accountant; retu upper Columbia country. until his death. Donald Manson, native of Scotland, came to John McLeod, so Oregon with McLoughlin, 1824; served in New 1832. Caledonia; made his home finally at Champoeg. Wm. McNeil; arn Pierre C. Pambrun, native of Paris, France; trading brig " Lla as captain of steam above the present city of Portland. He was a fine specimen of the 1833.-William Fraser British tar, and had at an early day abandoned his allegiance to the British lion and taken service on the old frigate "Constitution." I Scotland; well edu have frequently listened to his narratives of the action between the was placed in char, old " lronsides" and the "Guerriere," on which occasion he served tural Company. with the boarding party. He used to exhibit an ugly scar on his head, made in that memorable action by a British cutlass, and at- 1834. -William Glenn R tributed his escape from death to the fact that he had a couple of stationed in 1841 at pieces of hoop iron crossed in his cap, which turned the cutlass and saved his life.-J. W. Nesmith, 1875. a son-in-law of McI Ebbert (George Ward) followed the nomadic life of a trapper until 1839.-Four thousand 1839, when lie came to the Will amette Valley and took up a claim was surveyed for a near (hainpoeg, and next year settled upon his present farm in Tualatin Plains, where he has since resided, and has maintained the 1840.-Father Blanchet reputation of a good citizen and honest man. The first square meal on land between PI I ever ate west of the Rocky Mountains was at his humble but hos- Agricultural Comp. pitable cabin, thirty-seven years ago.-Ibid. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 265

3 employees and agents: commandant for many years until his death at ;ettled in 1837 on Cowlitz Fort Walla Walla. Archibald Mtler in present limits of McKinley, Scotchman; stationed at Fort Langley; after death of Pambrun at Fort Walla Walla; engaged in business in Oregon New Caledonia and up- City; made home in West Chehalem. New Caledonia; Dease, 1830.-Geo. B. Roberts, clerk at Vancouver. "olumbia. 1831.-Duncan Finlayson, clerk at Vancouver; re- an Englishman, a jovial, mained until 1837. iter into American life, 1832.-Geo. T. Allen, clerk; manager of farm at Van- Jer Provisional Govern- couver, afterward detailed to Sandwich Islands in the Snake River and as accountant; returned and lived at Cathlamet until his death. ve of Scotland, came to John McLeod, sent to build , n, 1824; served in New 1832. me finally at Champoeg. Wm. McNeil; arrived as captain of American iative of Paris, France; trading brig " Llama "; employed afterward as captain of steamer " Beaver." He was a fine specimen of the 1833.-, native of , abandoned his allegiance to the old frigate " Constitution." I Scotland; well educated physician; about 1841 tives of the action between the was placed in charge of Puget Sound Agricul- ," on which occasion he served to exhibit an ugly scar on his tural Company. 1 by a British cutlass, and at- 1834.--William Glenn Rae, native of Orkney Islands; e fact that he had a couple of stationed in 1841 at San Francisco; died in 1846; >, which turned the cutlass and a son-in-law of McLoughlin. nomadic life of a trapper until 1839.-Four thousand acres of land on the Cowlitz te Valley and took up a claim was surveyed for an agricultural led upon his present farm in station. esided, and has maintained the 1840.-Father Blanchet and Father Demers settled st man. The first square meal on land between Plomondeau and Puget Sound ins was at his humble but hos- -Ibid. Agricultural Company's farm. I

266 THE GROWTH OF

Dr. Forbes Barclay, a native of Shetland Is- lands, who had also served with Sir John Ross in the Arctic; well educated physician. William McBean, stationed at Fort Walla Walla, after McKinley. Grant, commandant at Fort Hall. 1812.-Montour, a character considered fabulous by Bancroft, but said to have made a settlement on French Prairie.

The Rocky Mountain men have been almost uni- versally described as good fellows, brave and gener- ous, and sincerely attached to their families. As said by one pioneer: " They were all a God-fearing class, and obtained their impressions mostly from nature." Their piety was no doubt of the frontier stamp, which did not forbid occasional profanity, nor imposed a very strict observance of the Sabbath; nor did it inhibit fighting in self-defense. But on the other hand there are few examples of greater hos- pitality and humanity than can be found in the lives of these men. The story of Phil. Thompson and his family would afford material for a romance. After trapping many years in the Rocky Mountains and marrying a native woman of the Snake Indians, he saw his oldest daughter beginning to grow up to womanhood, and concluded that he must follow the missionaries who had come into the Willamette Val- ley that the girl might be educated. He talked the matter over with his Indian wife, who perceived the THE GROWTH OF

ra native of Shetland Is- ierved with Sir John Ross lucated physician. stationed' at Fort Walla

at Fort Hall. ;er considered fabulous by have made a settlement on ien have been almost uni- I fellows, brave and gener- ed to their families. As hey were all a God-fearing impressions mostly from s no doubt of the frontier d occasional profanity, nor yservance of the Sabbath; >in self-defense. But on w examples of greater hos- a can be found in the lives Af Phil. Thompson and his rial for a romance. After the Rocky Mountains and Lof the Snake Indians, he beginning to grow up to mn,dte, educated. into thatwife, thehe who Willamettemust Heperceived followtalked Val- the

AN AMERICAN STATE 267 advantage of the child becoming a white woman; but could not bring herself to leave her country. She bade him and the girl a sad farewell, and Thompson set out, and after one day's journey made camp. In the morning the mother appeared to say good-bye again. Another day's march was made; but once more, as morning came, the Snake Indian mother was there to say good-bye. Thus continuing several days she finally gave up her tribe to follow her child; and in the Willamette Valley became known as one of the most careful of housewives. She tried to learn the white women's ways, and visited her white neighbors, noticing all the home arrangements and ways of cooking, washing, and keeping house, and introduced these at home, to please her husband, and that her children might grow up like white people. Mrs. Doty (Doughty), who was of the same Indian tribe, became a Baptist; but Mrs. Thompson died before the Baptist missionary reached the neighbor- hood. A story is told of Thompson's buying a little slave girl, whom a party of Indians passing by had cap- tured, and were mistreating. He called her Mary, and wished to bring her up as his own; but the little savage proved to be a genuine imp. She utterly re- fused to talk; the only words she was known to speak-at least until the family moved to California during the gold excitement-was when some mischief was found done, and Mrs. Thompson demanded sternly who performed it, and Mary answered 268 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST promptly, " Tecump "-referring to Thompson's trapper captain, who fo little boy, Tecumseh. Kelley in the midst of IL 1842.-Francis Xavier Matthieu, from Terrebonne, the mountains of south( Canada; arrived in autumn. Lucier, and Belaque, we In spring of the year came the following as afterward favorable French Canadians: Gedereau Senecalle, was also a noted trappel Thomas Moison, Pierre Ganthier, Augustin to Sacramento Valley, o: Remon, Joseph Matte, and Francis Berthier. ily on the horse or mule In February of 1843, A list has been taken from books of Matthieu, who greatly saddened by the for a number of years was in mercantile business at lamette Falls of Corneli The Butte, or Butteville, and no doubt gives a con- daughter of David Lesl siderable, if not complete list of Canadians living on thaniel Crocker. Witi French Prairie. It is as follows: Xavier Laderoute, mond, and an Indian cr Antoine Bonafante, Andre La Chapelle, Pierre the mouth of the Colun Papin, Louis B. Vandalle, Jean B. Du Charme, Fa- stop over at the falls. bien Maloine, Luc Pagnon, Etienne Gregoire, Amable White was perhaps fe, Arcouette, Pierre De Lord, Louis A. Vandalle, John neared the landing place Sanders, Pierre Pariseau, Charles Rondeau, David moment the canoe touch Donpierre, Andre Du Bois, Pierre Depot, Moyse Lor, ing leaped ashore; beii Pierre Le Course, Joseph Bernabe, Baptiste De- shove the craft into th guire, Adolphe Cahmberlaine, Jean Lingras Alexis caught and carried over Aubichon, Jean Servans, Michelle Laferte, Jean B. the bow, and also jump Dalcourse, Louis Osant, Jean B. Aubichon, Antoine attempting to draw in Felice, Michel La Framboise, Joseph Gervais, Jean craft more broadside to B. Panpin, Olivier Brisebois, Thomas Roa, Louis Crocker, Rogers, the two Boivers, Andre Langtain, Etienne Lucier, Alexis La instantly drowned; one Pratte, Pierre Belaque. falls alive (as has been s Of these, La Chapelle was known as the mighty over all, as all the d blacksmith; La Framboise as a famous trader and esteemed. Rogers, in p THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 269

-erring to Thompson's trapper captain, who found and took care of Hall J. Kelley in the midst of his sickness and difficulties in hieu, from Terrebonne, the mountains of southern Oregon; Depot, Gervais, mn. Lucier, and Belaque, were noted as first settlers, and ar came the following as afterward favorable to local government. Osant Gedereau Senecalle, was also a noted trapper captain, making the journey re Ganthier, Augustin to Sacramento Valley, often taking his wife and f am- nd Francis Berthier. ily on the horse or mule train. In February of 1843, the Oregon community was books of Matthieu, who greatly saddened by the accidental death at the Wil- a mercantile business at lamette Falls of Cornelius Rogers, his young wife, a d no doubt gives a con- daughter of David Leslie, and her sister; and Na- of Canadians living on thaniel Crocker. With Dr. White, W. W. Ray- )ws: Xavier Laderoute, mond, and an Indian crew, they were on the way to La Chapelle, Pierre the mouth of the Columbia, the ladies intending to ean B. Du Charme, Fa- stop over at the falls. The river was high, and tienne Gregoire, Amable White was perhaps feeling apprehensive as they Louis A. Vandalle, John neared the landing place just above the falls, and the %harles Rondeau, David moment the canoe touched the log used as the land- ierre Depot, Moyse Lor, ing leaped ashore; being in the stern this acted to Bernabe, Baptiste De- shove the craft into the stream, by which it was e, Jean Lingras Alexis caught and carried over the falls. Raymond was at chelle Laferte, Jean B. the bow, and also jumped out with the line, but on a B. Aubichon, Antoine attempting to draw in only swung the endangered , Joseph Gervais, Jean craft more broadside to the overpowering current. s, Thomas Roa, Louis Crocker, Rogers, the two ladies and two Indians were ienne Lucier, Alexis La instantly drowned; one Indian came through the falls alive (as has been said). The loss cast a gloom 3 known as the mighty over all, as all the drowned were most highly is a famous trader and esteemed. Rogers, in particular, was a very prom-

I 270 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA ising man, well acquainted with Indian languages, Methodist Missionary Bc and calculated to be of great use to the infant com- make a change in man munity. Dr. White's account of the accident is as Richmond and Willson a follows: terward that under G. 13 " . .. I received an urgent call to visit the discontinued. That on C mouth of the Columbia. I left at once in company somewhat longer by Kon with Nathaniel Crocker, Esq., Mr. Rogers (my in- sionary station, as well; terpreter), his lady, and her young sister (the fe- Daniel Lee and Perkini males going only to the falls), with a crew of Indians, sold to Dr. Whitman, wi on our ill-fated expedition. We reached the falls at Missionary Board, prem sunset, February 1st, and by reason of the water be- that all the Oregon stati ing higher than usual, in passing around a jutting, or missions, and that as projecting, rock, the canoe came up suddenly against preaching stations for th, a log constituting the landing, at which instant I no longer be supported' stepped off, and in a moment the canoe was swept of the church, but be org away, with all its precious cargo, over the falls of of the home field. Soon thirty-eight feet, three rods below. The shock was July 19, 1843, a new si dreadful to this infant colony, and the loss was dread- Gary, of New York State ful and irreparable to me, Mr. Rogers being more Hedding, and in the auti important to me than any one in the country; nor by Cape Horn for Orego: was there a more respectable and useful man in this man of ability and dis colony. Nathaniel Crocker came in with me last fall closed out the secular afl from Tompkins County; he was much pleased with Lee, hearing that an age the country and its prospects, and the citizens were visit Oregon and examinm rejoiced at the arrival of such a man in this country; decided to make a second he was every day capacitated for usefulness. None possible the departure of of the bodies of the four whites or two Indians have the situation-as he thoul been as yet found. " took passage in the Huds Conditions in Oregon had'become so far changed the Hawaiian Islands, al in reference to missionary work, in 1843, that the Mexico. He visited Wa THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 271

with Indian languages, Methodist Missionary Board in New York decided to it use to the infant com- make a change in management. The Mission of mt of the accident is as Richmond and Willson at Nisqually, and shortly af- terward that under G. Hines, on the Umpqua, were urgent call to visit the discontinued. That on Clatsop Plains was conducted left at once in company somewhat longer by Kone and Parrish, but as a mis- iq., Mr. Rogers (my in- sionary station, as well as that at the Dalles, under ~r young sister (the fe- Daniel Lee and Perkins, which was subsequently ), with a crew of Indians, sold to Dr. Whitman, was at length given up. The We reached the falls at Missionary Board, prematurely perhaps, concluded r reason of the water be- that all the Oregon stations had ceased to be Indian sing around a jutting, or missions, and that as American settlements, or ame up suddenly against preaching stations for the white settlers, they should Ling, at which instant I no longer be supported by their missionary branch nt the canoe was swept of the church, but be organized as ordinary circuits cargo, over the falls of of the home field. Soon after this action was taken, below. The shock was July 19, 1843, a new superintendent, Rev. George I, and the loss was dread- Gary, of New York State, was appointed by Bishop Mr. Rogers being more Hedding, and in the autumn sailed from New York one in the country; nor by Cape Horn for Oregon. He was well known as a e and useful man in this man of ability and discretion, and upon arrival lame in with me last fall closed out the secular affairs of the mission. Jason b was much pleased with Lee, hearing that an agent was to be appointed to ts, and the citizens were visit Oregon and examine the affairs of his mission, h a man in this country; decided to make a second trip East, anticipating if d for usefulness. None possible the departure of the agent, and explain fully ites or two Indians have the situation-as he thought the step premature. He took passage in the Hudson's Bay Company bark to I become so far changed the Hawaiian Islands, and thence by a schooner to work, in 1843, that the Mexico. He visited Washington City and advised 272 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE with the President and cabinet as to the mission CHAP' lands, and gave other information then much de- sired. Before the Board he made the definite claim THE STRUGGLE FO that the Mission had been essential to the settlement (Coni in Oregon and by its supplies had saved the Ameri- cans " from succumbing to the Hudson's Bay Com- pany. " His course was not criticised and personally he was indorsed, being appointed " Missionary to Oregon "; but died at Stanstead the next year. His only child living, Lucy A., remained in Oregon, and was educated at Willamette Institute, of which she became preceptress.

[Vol. 3] V AMERICAN STATE binet as to the mission CHAPTER IX )rmation then much de- made the definite claim THE STRUGGLE FOR THEI WILLAMETTE ssential to the settlement (Continmued) es had saved the Ameri- the Hudson's Bay Com- criticised and personally pointed " Missionary to stead the next year. His -emained in Oregon, and b Institute, of which she

[Vol. 3] MW__ -

ITH th W/ most t t popul, v nedi tion could not be kept down. evident, there were th diminutive settlement. Bay Company, whose ei cific Coast, have been es -twelve or thirteen hum very efficient governmen was of military, or semi- had its officers of the p( couver, being justice, an force the laws of Upp territory. There was in the see and also of cohesion, ti who had their own chu certain rather indefinite tion by the Hudson's B of the mission had the goods and credit, and so the missionary societies independence and sense was thus with the Briti degree of recognition E class with certain exclu the members of the miss ITH the gradual, although still al- W/ most imperceptible, increase of population in Oregon, as illustrat- ed in the preceding pages, the ques- tion of some sort of government could not be kept down. As became more and more evident, there were three growing parties in the diminutive settlement. One was that of the Hudson's Bay Company, whose employees, all told, on the Pa- cific Coast, have been estimated as over one thousand -twelve or thirteen hundred. These were under the very efficient government of the company itself, which was of military, or semi-military, character; and also had its officers of the peace, James Douglas, at Van- couver, being justice, and who were authorized to en- force the laws of Upper Canada throughout their territory. There was in the second place, in order of time, and also of cohesion, the Methodist Mission party; who had their own church organization, and had a certain rather indefinite, but still creditable recogni- tion by the Hudson's Bay Company. The members of the mission had their own steward, their own goods and credit, and some independent income from the missionary societies. This gave them a certain independence and sense of protection. The power was thus with the British Company; and a certain degree of recognition and standing, constituting a class with certain exclusive privileges, belonged to the members of the mission. To those not thus priv- 276 THE GROWTH OF ileged this seemed to be a recognition that consti- tuted an " Aristocracy "; or, at least, to the sensi- E tive American heart, that dearly detested distinctions, it was easy to so construe the situation. The third party, then, was naturally created by the fact of the existence of the other two. The Hudson's Bay peo- ple having the power, and the Methodist missionaries the privileges; and the " people," felt themselves excluded. The popular party were thus composed of the old mountain men, free trappers, sailors and in- dependent missionaries. To this number a strong addition was made in the autumn of 1842 of W. H. Gray, who resigned his place in the American Board Mission, and removed to the Willamette Valley. Rev. A. B. Smith, who had attempted a mission to the Nez Perces, resigned at the same time, and went to the Sandwich Islands. These were, naturally, strictly local conditions, or the embryonic conditions of politics; such divisions always existing in every community; one party hav- ing the power, another privileges supported by the W power, and the much larger body havinig neither OX power or privilege, except as they may be able to limit and regulate the other two. That the "power" was not very oppressive, or the "privileges" very great in the embryonic conditions in Oregon, did not make any less inevitable this division of feeling; which is at the base of the tripartite distinctions ob- served in most societies of the upper, middle, and lower classes. That there were wise and good and THE GROWTH OF recognition that consti- )r, at least, to the sensi- xrly detested distinctions, he situation. The third reated by the fact of the The Hudson's Bay peo- j Methodist missionaries )eople," felt themselves ywere thus composed of ,rappers, sailors and in- ) this number a strong ttumn of 1842 of W. H. in the American Board the Willamette Valley. tempted a mission to the same time, and went to

.ctly local conditions, or politics; such divisions munity; one party hav- ileges supported by the VWUIJA r body having neither IL GRAY 0nwa Plomw" Of im. is they may be able to wo. That the "'power" the "privileges" very ions in Oregon, did not is division of feeling; ipartite distinctions ob- the upper, middle, and ere wise and good and

I " - I - - I . .. I .....I'- __.._I_._-"--0 _0... I- .1. .Ok

AN AMERICAN STATE 277

friendly men among all the parties, and generous friendship between all classes; and that these em- bryonic class distinctions were not allowed to rise to animosity, or forcible contest, illustrates the in- telligence and morality of the little Oregon commu- nity. The larger political question, whether the country should become British or American, was held in abeyance. Congress had been memorialized three times by the Americans in Oregon. The first was carried by Jason Lee, and stated that while peaceable conditions were then existing, it could not be hoped that they would so remain if the British and American Govern- ments should divide opinion, and the Indians be suf- fered, without an adequate authority in the Terri- tory, to become partisans. The desirability of a speedy erection of some American authority was therefore strongly set forth. By the petition of 1840, it was represented to Congress that the petitioners were citizens of the United States; they had settled in Oregon, supposing this to be a portion of the pub- lic domain of the United States; but they were unin- formed of any acts of this government extending American institutions and protection over them; in consequence of which themselves and families were exposed to be destroyed by the savages, and others who would do them harm. They represented that there was crime in the Territory, which should be suppressed; they called attention to acts of the Brit- ish Government, showing its intention to hold the M

278 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S'

country north of the Columbia, and representing in competition with I that this section was necessary to the completeness Willamette, and that v of the Oregon Territory on account of its harbors, independent efforts of and was valuable on account of its timber, water Lion was also made tl powers, and minerals. After naming the desirable into competition with 1 features of the section south of the Columbia, to the were refused transpoi California line, they conclude: " And, although your from the Sandwich Is petitioners do not undervalue considerations of this ment these particular kind, yet they beg leave especially to call attention evident that in an unsi of Congress to their own condition as an infant col- without any effective I ony, without military force or civil institutions to by both British and protect their lives and property and children, sanc- partisan difficulties we tuaries and tombs, from the hands of uncivilized and The allusions to tl merciless savages around them. We respectfully ask seem rather overdraw for the civil institutions of the American Republic. lamette Valley were I We pray for the high privileges of American citizen- for years been absolul ship. " unperceived by the A This was signed by David Leslie and others. such tranquillity, that Later petitions indicated more particular griev- prehend the results of ances. In one it is stated that disagreements and mis- was it doubtful that understandings as to property were already arising. which numbered som Attention was called to the fact that the Chief Factor fighters, did once awa of the Hudson's Bay Company was claiming two ereignty was endange miles of the river front at the Willamette Falls; and of all the tribes. T] that he was holding this not in person, but by em- ground feeling, that ployees of the Hudson's Bay Company; that he was ful American hesitate also taking and holding agricultural lands in the his wife, and attemp same manner, one tract upon Tualatin Plains, and dren in conditions tl another on the Clackamas; and that he was employ- violence. This unde ing Hudson's Bay Company servants to erect a mill been well expressed i THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 279 mbia, and representing in competition with Americans at the Falls of the ary to the completeness Willamette, and that with such means at his disposal account of its harbors, independent efforts of Americans were futile. Men- nt of its timber, water tion was also made that articles calculated to enter er naming the desirable into competition with the company's trade in Oregon Lof the Columbia, to the were refused transportation in the company's ships e: " And, although your from the Sandwich Islands. While as a State docu- ie considerations of this ment these particulars seem rather trivial, it was pecially to call attention evident that in an unsettled condition of affairs, and ndition as an infant col- without any effective government control recognized or civil institutions to by both British and Americans, and all residents, ierty and children, sanc- partisan difficulties would soon arise. hands of uncivilized and The allusions to the danger from Indians may ,m. We respectfully ask seem rather overdrawn, as the Indians in the Wil- the American Republic. lamette Valley were few and demoralized, and had ,ges of American citizen- for years been absolutely peaceable. Yet it was not unperceived by the Americans, even in the midst of LLeslie and others. such tranquillity, that the Indians did not as yet com- more particular griev- prehend the results of settlement by the whites; nor it disagreements and mis- was it doubtful that when the surrounding tribes, rty were already arising. which numbered some of the best and bravest of 'act that the Chief Factor fighters, did once awaken to the fact that native sov- Lpany was claiming two ereignty was endangered, there would be a coalition he Willamette Falls; and of all the tribes. This created an uneasy, under- )t in person, but by em- ground feeling, that might well make any thought- y Company; that he was ful American hesitate about locating here a home for gricultural lands in the his wife, and attempting to rear a family of chil- on Tualatin Plains, and dren in conditions that had the elements of great and that he was employ- violence. This undercurrent of apprehension has r servants to erect a mill been well expressed in an address of Hon. Elwood hwaiffilw _ " -" - - -

280 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SEC

Evans: " So long as no collision between the whites Puritans and the Oreg occurred the Indians might remain quiet. But any were founders of comm excitement indicating hostility between British and tators-both recognizes Americans, the tinder [the Indians] was in danger der to secure the well-] of ignition. . . . The Indian was ignorant, jeal- fore the Puritan fathei ous, and perfidious to his enemies, real or supposed. flower ' they had sign The American settler came to stay, and appropriate inent and selected the the country to his use, and this of itself was all suf- our pioneers selected X ficient to provoke Indian enmity. It is equally true of the season, when, tri there existed an educated bias which had already they missed and at on made the Indian the dependent of a foreign element- tection afforded by cix there was also an educated bias which fostered hos- neglected by their gov( tility to the American settler. " selves, to each other, a It was wholly unknown to the American what move tion of establishing a to on the part of the British Government or the mo- It is too well establishE nopoly might cause a rupture with the Americans, system of government or how many, if not all, of the Indian tribes might of a new settlement. be affected. While from Dr. McLoughlin they had axiom found no except received nothing but protection and kindness, there Oregon; to secure orde was then no means of knowing his personal inten- foremost among the du tions, and whether he would be influenced by his Tracing their acts I company and government to undertake stringent Americans prayed foi measures to retain possession of a country they they eloquently lament seemed to show no inclination to surrender. It was protection which law s suspicious, in their memorial, to speak of others than their fellow-citizens ol the Indians, meaning the British Company, as likely jects] to join with ther to do them harm. But this was clearly within the ernment. They were r region of possibility if an unorganized and unpro- rules and regulations tected condition was allowed to continue. though vastly in the in Judge Evans also drew a comparison between the steadily continued. Ii THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 281

3ion between the whites Puritans and the Oregon pioneers; saying: " Both emain quiet. But any were founders of commonwealths-both political agi- y between British and tators-both recognized the necessity of law and or- adians] was in danger der to secure the well-being of the community. Be- ian was ignorant, jeal- fore the Puritan fathers left the cabin of the ' May- mies, real or supposed. flower ' they had signed their compact of govern- , stay, and appropriate ment and selected their magistrates. Hardly had is of itself was all suf- our pioneers selected a shelter from the inclemency ity. It is equally true of the season, when, true to their American instincts, as which had already they missed and at once desired to supply the pro- ; of a foreign element- tection afforded by civil institutions. Spurned and as which fostered hos- neglected by their government, they turned to them- selves, to each other, and at once agitated the ques- Le American what move tion of establishing a temporary government. overnment or the mo- It is too well established to admit of cavil that some e with the Americans, system of government is the very first requirement he Indian tribes might of a new settlement. This essentially American McLoughlin they had axiom found no exception in the pioneer element of )n and kindness, there Oregon; to secure order and peace was the first duty ng his personal inten- foremost among the duties of the citizens. " L be influenced by his Tracing their acts he continues: "In 1838 the ) undertake stringent Americans prayed for civil institutions. In 1840 )n of a country they they eloquently lamented that they were without the Lto surrender. It was protection which law secured. In 1841 they invited to speak of others than their fellow-citizens of foreign birth [British sub- ish Company, as likely jects] to join with them in forming a system of gov- was clearly within the ernment. They were ready and willing to submit to organized and unpro- rules and regulations prescribed by the people, Lo continue. though vastly in the minority. In 1842 the agitation omparison between the steadily continued. In 1843, although they had in-

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282 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S creased in numbers, and the time was approaching theoretically true eve when they must outnumber their opponents, yet again comes practically so they invited the co-operation of their foreign-born of men either so stroi fellow-citizens." As an estimate of the work of the to apply it. The AmE Oregon pioneers in establishing their own govern- ciple, and they believe ment he concludes: " From this testimony I am exigency in which tl more than justified in pronouncing the Provisional means of it gain the Government of Oregon the crowning glory of the venture further along Oregon pioneers-a striking exhibit of their pa- porary, or local govei tient submissiveness when the American settlers were the purpose of gene] in the minority-of their magnanimity and conserva- course, covered a pe tism when they were in the majority. We witness within that brief time the difficulty and the jealousy which thwarted their every white person li plans, and how they overcame them. We must com- nute, critical and co] mend their pluck, endurance, tact; their sturdy re- markable government publicanism displayed in their persistent effort to ened acts, not only in secure the ' consent of the governed.' " and defense, but in its Without speculating whether Oregon would have for education, its proh ever become an American Territory and State with- pression of the evils o out the intermediary period of a government estab- and tolerant provisioi lished by her own people, we may note briefly that ish subject, long afte it was by such a period that it actually came into the minority, should be tr( American Union, and with it has come possession by some most learned of the most of the shore of the Pacific, and the lead- but trace the steps ol ing control of the entire Pacific Ocean. The weapon how to take one step a with which the Oregon pioneers contended was but Having seen that ti a slender branch of primary American ideas. In in a local government these they conquered. As indicated by Judge Evans, tary rights was in co the leading or foremost of these used was that of the .\ mericans, stronj " the consent of the governed." This principle, ideas, sought how the THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 283

time was approaching theoretically true everywhere and for all men, be- ieir opponents, yet again comes practically so only as there is found a body n of their foreign-born of men either so strong, or so wise, as to know how mate of the work of the to apply it. The Americans in Oregon had the prin- hing their own govern- ciple, and they believed that they could use it in the m this testimony I am exigency in which they found themselves, and by uncing the Provisional means of it gain the security that they trembled to crowning glory of the venture further along without having. This tem- g exhibit of their pa- porary, or local government, intended only to serve a American settlers were the purpose of general protection and civil inter- Unanimity and conserva- course, covered a period of but seven years, yet majority. We witness within that brief time was able to win to its support ~y which thwarted their every white person living in the Territory. A mi- ie them. We must com- nute, critical and constitutional study of this re- , tact; their sturdy re- markable government, including its many enlight- ieir persistent effort to ened acts, not only in providing for the public safety )verned.' " and defense, but in its liberal land laws, its provision her Oregon would have for education, its prohibition of slavery, and its sup- erritory and State with- pression of the evils of intemperance, and in its wise of a government estab- and tolerant provision for the scruples of the Brit- ve may note briefly that ish subject, long after they had become a hopeless it actually came into the minority, should be treated in a volume by itself; and it has come possession by some most learned legal authority. Here we can ,he Pacific, and the lead- but trace the steps of the patient pioneers seeking Lific Ocean. The weapon how to take one step after another in the best way. leers contended was but Having seen that their only hope of security lay ry American ideas. In in a local government while the question of proprie- dicated by Judge Evans, tary rights was in course of diplomatic settlement, these used was that of the Americans, strongly conscious of fundamental rned. " This principle, ideas, sought how they might gain the " consent " 284 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S9 of those whom they must include in the government. tiers to realize. He This point, it has been related by Rev. J. S. Griffin, those present did not was dwelt upon in conversations with officers of the ment that did not re( Wilkes' Expedition, while these were here in 1841. rights in some way, It was advised by them that no government could be the United States or (} recognized unless it had the general support of all McLoughlin was simp] residents; but if so established, although not strictly tilers with an effort thE regular according to Legitimist ideas, it would com- suppressed if attempt( mand some support as a government in fact. in mind some locally in Two comparatively independent movements seem autonomy should be ^ to have been in progress during the winter of 1842-43, But either one was looking toward a temporary government. One of tirely hostile to Ame these was a series of discussions held at the public Oregon. He then offei debating society, formed among the men residing at at the next week's meet the Willamette Falls, or Oregon City. This was at- United States extends i tended by Abernethy, Hastings, Dr. McLoughlin, and try within the next fot others; and was by no means an insignificant arena ent to form an Indepe for skillful discussion. The question of forming a meeting, the political I Provisional Government was among those debated. seen, there was a larg Hastings, although an American, was the attorney ence between an indep of McLoughlin, and presented a resolution that it visional government, i " was expedient for the settlers on the coast to es- ary question was settle( tablish an Independent Government." In the dis- thoroughly. Tt was ce cussion this was favored by McLoughlin; and being the great and magnetic put to a vote the resolution was carried. Abernethy, and plain Abernethy; who opposed the resolution, was not satisfied that the audience was deN 3McLoughlin meant, so far as public discussion might United States won th( affect action, to do more than aim at an impossible I arguments seems to h object, which it would be outside of the power, either to be inferred from the legally or by sufficiency of strength, for Oregon set- While the Oregon Ci THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 285 lude in the government. tiers to realize. He saw perfectly, which some of d by Rev. J. S. Griffin, those present did not seem to see, that no govern- ions with officers of the ment that did not recognize the superior national iese were here in 1841. rights in some way, would be suffered by either no government could be the United States or Great Britain. It is possible that general support of all McLoughlin was simply intending to flatter the set- d, although not strictly tlers with an effort that he knew would be promptly ist ideas, it would com- suppressed if attempted; or it may be that he had 'ernment in fact. in mind some locally independent government, whose ndent movements seem autonomy should be guaranteed by Great Britain. ig the winter of 1842-43, But either one was seen by Abernethy as en- T government. One of tirely hostile to American ideas and interests in lions held at the public Oregon. He then offered as a subject for discussion ing the men residing at at the next week's meeting a resolution, " That if the gon City. This was at- Lgnited States extends its jurisdiction over this coun- ,s, Dr. McLoughlin, and try within the next four years, it will not be expedi- s an insignificant arena ent to form an Independent Government." At this question of forming a meeting, the political bearings of which began to be 3 among those debated. seen, there was a large attendance; and the differ- 'ican, was the attorney ence between an independent government and a pro- ed a resolution that it visional government, to terminate when the bound- lers on the coast to es- ary question was settled, seems to have been gone over arnment." In the dis- thoroughly. It was certainly an interesting debate; UcLoughlin; and being the great and magnetic McLoughlin against the small as carried. Abernethy, and plain Abernethy; but the American leaning of was not satisfied that the audience was developed; Abernethy and the public discussion might United States won the decision. No record of the n aim at an impossible arguments seems to have been kept, but these are ide of the power, either to be inferred from the decision. rength, for Oregon set- While the Oregon City lawyer and merchant were 286 THE GROWTH OF

taking up the subject in a theoretical way, the Ameri- cans of French Prairie were trying to discover some method by which the actual settlers could be inter- ested. Only as some very apparent need could be set forth would all parties be brought together. As the winter wore along, very fortunately a specific func- tion of government, or at least of concerted com- munity action, became apparent. The wild animals were becoming very troublesome about the ranches and ranges in catching the calves and colts and sheep that were now the main wealth. It became a subject that those favoring a provisional government could easily use. As has been noted by a writer on the sub- ject. " The design indicated on the face of the no- tices was certainly a very laudable one, which was sure to be approved by the principal stock owners, then known to be the missionaries and the Hudson's Bay Company. These were believed not to approve the organization of a provisional government, but the extirpation of wild animals was an object to which they gave an encouraging word and to which they promised to contribute their money. " The fact, GEORG] moreover, that here was a function of government af- Providloal Governo fecting the welfare of almost every settler, but had been overlooked by the existing authorities. whatever they were, was a striking proof that the " moral sense of the community " was not sufficient for the needs of the people. It could be said, " Look here, your Hudson's Bay Company, and your Methodist Mission, are not sufficient to protect even your pens 0

THE GROWTH OF

Xtheoretical way, the Ameri- vere trying to discover some Itual settlers could be inter- y apparent need could be set )e brought together. As the fortunately a specific func- at least of concerted com- kpparent. The wild animals ublesome about the ranches ie calves and colts and sheep wealth. It became a subject -ovisional government could ioted by a writer on the sub- cated on the face of the no- laudable one, which was sure principal stock owners, then aries and the Hudson's Bay believed not to approve the isional government, but the nals was an object to which ng word and to which they their money." The fact, GWORGE ABENETY at Orepa thMuam to "M a function of government af- Pmusi-l 4on-ma lmost every settler, but had xisting authorities. whatever ing proof that the " moral " was not sufficient for the could be said, " Look here, mpany, and your Methodist it to protect even your pens

AN AMERICAN STATE 287 and roosts; let's organize to look after the wild cats and timber wolves." Those who issued the notices of the meeting had an ulterior object in view, but knew that in order to obtain the consent of the governed, they must find agreement on a concrete proposition first. The move was strongly political, or politic, but it was strictly within the range of legitimate politics, which has for its object to focalize and determine public sentiment. Notice was posted that a meeting would be held at the Oregon Institute, established the previous sum- mer, and of which more will be told in the proper place. The meeting was thus regularly called and organized, electing Dr. Ira L. Babcock, the quon- dam judge, as chairman of the meeting. This was February 2, 1843. After discussion it was de- cided to appoint a committee of six to consider the subject of protecting the herds, and report at a gen- eral meeting to be held first Monday in March next, at the house of Joseph Gervais. Ample time was thus given for word to be carried over the settle- ments, and as stated, a large majority of the settlers realized that something more than moral sense was necessary to take care of the wild animals, and nearly all were ready to participate in the " Wolf Meet- ing," as it was called. There was something a little eatchy and attractive about this designation; so easily comprehended, and yet with a lurking sugges- tion of further possibilities. Hon. John Minto has noticed a parallel between the beginnings of govern- r-

288 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST, ment on the banks of the Willamette and on the banks upper country mission, of the Tiber, in each of which the Wolf seems to have tection for themselves. figured somewhat prominently; and draws the con- provisions just made, I clusion that probably all organized government be- sions for the people. Hi gan in the effort of men discarding the hunter stage tion for a moment that of society to control the wild beasts dangerous to the right; " this was just a flocks. We may also remember the picture of pre- property," and continue historic men contending in large numbers with the and me, and our wives mastodon, and that in the caves of Ireland the bones organization upon whic] of extinct carnivores of gigantic size are found along tection? Is there any p, with the remains of cave-dwelling men; and that the try sufficient to protect kings of Assyria, far down within the period of re- from the worse than wi] corded history, claimed it as their special preroga- is authorized to call us tive to kill lions. and the lives of our far The meeting held at the house of Joseph Gervais be given, as in a recen was characterized bygreat personal kindness and har- feel alarmed, and shoot monious action. The American programme was car- emy may be robbing 4 ried through with perfect success. James A. O'Neil, wives, and burning the who will be remembered as a member of Wyeth's families. Common sen party of 1834, was told of the ulterior object of the ourselves and families d meetings, and being favorable to making this effort with the principles tha at self-protection permanent, was willing to act as have mutually and uni chairman. He was elected, and expedited the busi- protect our domestic a] ness in hand. Ample protection was provided for I submit and move the a the domestic stock, and the object of the meeting resolutions, that we may seemed to have been attained. But the ulterior ob- sons and lives, as well ject now appeared, and the persons favorable to es- Resolved, that a commit tablishing a local authority showed their purpose. consideration theproprii W. H. Gray, recently come to the settlement from the civil and military prote( rVol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 289 illamette and on the banks upper country mission, broached the subject of pro- ch the Wolf seems to have tection for themselves. Taking as his theme the ntly; and draws the con- provisions just made, he argued for similar provi- )rganized government be- sions for the people. He said that no one would ques- scarding the hunter stage tion for a moment that what had just been done was [d beasts dangerous to the right; " this was just and natural protection for our ,mber the picture of pre- property, " and continued: " But how is it with you ilarge numbers with the and me, and our wives and children? Have we any *aves of Ireland the bones organization upon which we can rely for mutual pro- 'antic size are found along tection? Is there any power or influence in the coun- welling men; and that the try sufficient to protect us and all that we hold dear 1 within the period of re- from the worse than wild beasts? Who in our midst as their special preroga- is authorized to call us together to protect our own and the lives of our families'? True, the alarm may house of Joseph Gervais be given, as in a recent case, and we may run who )ersonal kindness and har- feel alarmed, and shoot off our guns, while our en- ican programme was car- emy may be robbing our property, ravishing our mccess. James A. O'Neil, wives, and burning the houses over our defenseless is a member of Wyeth's families. Common sense, prudence, and justice to the ulterior object of the ourselves and families demand that we act consistent ible to making this effort with the principles that we have commenced. We nt, was willing to act as have mutually and unitedly agreed to defend and , and expedited the busi- protect our domestic animals; now, fellow-citizens, tection was provided for I submit and move the adoption of the two following ae object of the meeting resolutions, that we may have protection for our per- led. But the ulterior ob- Fons and lives, as well as for our cattle and herds: persons favorable to es- Resolved, that a committee be appointed to take into ;y showed their purpose. consideration theproprietyof taking measures for the to the settlement from the civil and military protection of this colony; and Re- [vol. 3] .445------; - I- I __ , - ,

290 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

solved, that the said committee consist of twelve per- and no doubt believed sons."" authority would rathei The resolutions were adopted by unanimous vote, of such extension; if ti and the committee was appointed.t tect itself this weakener This apparent unanimity was met, however, with protection of the Unite great diversity of opinion in the settlement. At nethy apparently feai least five public meetings were held at different visional government i points preparatory to a general meeting, which was of an independent g( within the province of the committee of twelve to vored by McLoughlin, call and appoint the place of meeting; and numerous body of Americans it r private discussions were carried on in all parts of interests. Dr. White w the settlements. The first public meeting was at Wil- visional idea, but his E lamette Falls, by the committee of twelve, to which the idea of his own per the most of the people of the place were invited and addition to being sub-] in which they also participated. Dr. White of the governor. This was ot committee was chosen chairman, and G. W. Le Breton finding that the form c was chosen secretary. In the discussion that fol- with difficulties, the pr lowed both Jason Lee and George Abernethy took a short premature delibe very conservative view. They considered the meas- eral meeting to be held ure as proposed unwise, and a government unnec- same year, 1843. This essary, or more probably as a premature step just March 10th. Ample yet. Lee had been extremely urgent to secure the sides to be heard, and t extension of United States authority over Oregon, the wishes of the comma required that the first I The following appreciative notice of Gray has been made by H. W. Scott (address at unveiling of the Champoeg monu- cret, the point now wa ment): "One of the most active, earnest and forceful of the men and general as possib] who helped to carry the day, May 2, 1843, was William H. Gray, who came with Whitman in 1836. He is one distinctly to be named of the local governmei among the fathers of Oregon." Probably the most a t The Committee of Twelve consisted of Doctor Babcock, Dr. White, Breton. He may hav( Messrs. O'Neil, Newell, Shortess, Lucier, Gervais, Hubbard, MoRoy, Gay, Smith and Gray. his own; but whateve THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 291

... ttee consist of twelve per- and no doubt believed that erection of a temporary authority would rather act to diminish the urgency )pted by unanimous vote, of such extension; if the infant settlement could pro- )inted.t tect itself this weakened the argument that it needed was met, however, with protection of the United States Government. Aber- k in the settlement. At nethy apparently feared that erection of a pro- were held at different visional government would tend toward the idea aeral meeting, which was of an independent government, such as was fa- committee of twelve to vored by McLoughlin, and that with so small a e meeting; and numerous body of Americans it might be controlled in British arried on in all parts of interests. Dr. White was supposed to favor the pro- ublic meeting was at Wil- visional idea, but his enemies said that it was with kittee of twelve, to which the idea of his own personal preferment, and that in le place were invited and addition to being sub-Indian agent he wished to be )ated. Dr. White of the governor. This was obnoxious to some present, and nan, and G. W. Le Breton finding that the form of government would be beset the discussion that fol- with difficulties, the promoters of the plan wisely cut George Abernethy took a short premature deliberations, and appointed a gen- hey considered the meas- eral meeting to be held at Champoeg, May 2d, of the nd a government unnec- same year, 1843. This committee meeting was about IS a premature step just March 10th. Ample time was thus given for all ely urgent to secure the sides to be heard, and to make plans for determining authority over Oregon, the wishes of the community. As hope of success had ice of Gray has been made by required that the first movements be somewhat se- ling of the Champoeg monu- cret, the point now was to make discussion as open earnest and forceful of the men and general as possible, and to this the promoters 1843, was William H. Gray, who is one distinctly to be named of the local government addressed themselves. Probably the most active man on this side was Le ed of Doctor Babcock, Dr. White, Breton. He may have had political aspirations of icier, Gervais, Hubbard, McRoy, his own; but whatever his object he showed great MML' -- - _-__

292 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

adroitness and capacity both for reserve and action. Church at St. Paul, n( His own preferences he still held under cover and ings, particularly at St made it his business to discover what both or all steps taken by the Cana, parties were thinking and doing. He was a Catholic for, at that time, they M by education, and, with a French name and probably had never consulted the ancestry, he found admittance to the counsels of any considerable measu: those opposing as well as favoring the organization. been won at that time ii As to those opposed, there were evidently two all come to Oregon be courses open for them: One, to refuse entirely to That these meetings at participate in the meeting that might be held, and merely a preparatory then to say that such meeting, if held, had no repre- meeting does not inval sentative character; and the other to be present in now placed before the large numbers and vote the proposition down, and choice the form of govi then still more triumphantly say that the community They very naturally wo was opposed to a local government. Le Breton found information and authori that the latter course would be adopted. This was were made to feel for t the bolder and more conclusive step, and showed that hand in government. the opposition believed themselves in the majority. A document which ha It also showed a willingness, thus far, to learn and having evidently been 4 abide by the decision of the people, on the American man, and then inexpertly principle that the votes and wishes of all were to be circulated and signed I held as equal. Government by the consent of the was entitled, " Address governed and majority rule were thus early (in the Oregon to the meeting a proceedings) recognized by even the Canadian and The date shows that it British elements, and the Hudson's Bay factors and of a meeting which was the clergy of the Roman Catholic Church were here pears, ever appointed. brought to the point of accepting political equality Asserting themselves with their own servants and the American squatter. that they take the oppor Four meetings were held by the opposition; one at to the Americans on Vancouver, one at the Falls, and two at the Catholic First, that they wished f THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 293 yth for reserve and action. Church at St. Paul, near Champoeg. These meet- till held under cover and ings, particularly at St. Paul Church, were the first fiscover what both or all steps taken by the Canadians in popular government; doing. He was a Catholic for, at that time, they were under an authority which Prench name and probably had never consulted them in its measures; nor had stance to the counsels of any considerable measure of independent government favoring the organization. been won at that time in Canada. These settlers had there were evidently two all come to Oregon before the days of Papineau. One, to refuse entirely to That these meetings at the church were principally , that might be held, and merely a preparatory drill how to vote at the big ing, if held, had no repre- meeting does not invalidate the fact that they had the other to be present in now placed before them definitely for their own he proposition down, and choice the form of government they were to accept. ly say that the community They very naturally would look to their superiors in ,rnment. Le Breton found information and authority for guidance. But they all ild be adopted. This was were made to feel for the first time that they had a isive step, and showed that hand in government. Lemselves in the majority. A document which has a very singular style, from ass, thus far, to learn and having evidently been composed in French or Ger- .e people, on the American man, and then inexpertly translated into English, was id wishes of all were to be circulated and signed by the French residents. It ,nt by the consent of the was entitled, " Address of the Canadian citizens of le were thus early (in the Oregon to the meeting at Champoeg, March 4, 1843. " )y even the Canadian and The date shows that it was prepared in anticipation Eludson's Bay factors and of a meeting which was not held; nor, so far as ap- Datholic Church were here pears, ever appointed. ccepting political equality Asserting themselves as Canadian citizens and nd the American squatter. that they take the opportunity to express their views by the opposition; one at to the Americans on a government for Oregon: Is, and two at the Catholic First, that they wished for good regulations; second, AN AMERICAN SI 294 THE GROWTH OF lish subjects, and claim they would not object to the rules of the first local teenth, still they would government, though not liking all of them, but wished ment; fourteenth, thE those officers ( 1) to serve out their term; third, they laws; fifteenth, they ( would no longer petition the United States until the teenth, caution against frontier of the United States be established; fourth, seventeenth, express t1 they opposed the regulations anticipated as to lands; erty, and peace." fifth, they did not wish a provisional government, as The document is as it opened the way to self-interest, making useless of- " We, the Canadian ficers; nor were the people supplied with men of ering with interest ant education suitable for carrying on government. The unites the people at th common people were not fit for self-government; that the American citizens, was a matter for lawyers and the educated classes. men who called said m Sixth, in lieu of a government with its multitude sion of our sentiment, of officers, they would favor a simple council, to act union and inexhaustibl as parliament, or jury; seventh, to be elected from view of our duty and t all parts, but to locate a president and justice in each and declare- county, by whom causes might be tried, with appeal " 1st. That we wish to the central council [How long this council, or the welfare of our per senate, or parliament was to serve, or who were to property and labors. be electors, is not suggested. But this would point " 2d. That we do no again to McLoughlin's idea of a colony locally inde- measures of the kind i pendent, but under the guaranty of some power like the people; although England] ; eighth, these members of the council regulations, nor certa should be influenced by mere love of doing good, and magistrates finish their not by hope of gain, and be above suspicion of self- " 3d. That we will nc interest; ninth, the council should especially avoid government of the Ur oppressive taxation; tenth, they wished no militia; our reasons, and until eleventh, they considered the country as free to all, frontiers of the States' even Spanish and French as well as English and " 4th. That we are c Americans; twelfth, they assert themselves as Eng- AN AMERICAN THE GROWTH OF STATE 295 lish subjects, and the rules of the first local claim their freedom as such; thir- king all of them, but wished teenth, still they would submit to any lawful govern- ment; out their term; third, they fourteenth, they again deplore unnecessary laws; the United States until the fifteenth, they deplore fraudulent trials; six- teenth, Ltes be established; fourth, caution against multiplication of offices; and seventeenth, )ns anticipated as to lands; express the desire for " prosperity, lib- erty, and provisional government, as peace." nterest, making useless of- The document is as follows: ple supplied with men of " We, the Canadian citizens of Wallamet, consid- 'ying on government. The ering with interest and reflection the subject which t for self-government; that unites the people at the present meeting, present to ind the educated classes. the American citizens, and particularly to the gentle- rnment with its multitude men who called said meeting, the unanimous expres- sion or a simple council, to act of our sentiments of cordiality, and desire of eventh, to be elected from union and inexhaustible peace between all people, in view of -esident and justice in each our duty and the interest of the new colony, aight be tried, with appeal and declare- row long this council, or " 1st. That we wish for laws, or regulations, for to serve, or who were to the welfare of our persons, and the security of our ed. But this would point property and labors. " 2d. That *a of a colony locally inde- we do not intend to rebel against the aranty of some power like measures of the kind taken last year, by a party of members of the council the people; although we do not approve of certain re love of doing good, and regulations, nor certain modes of laws; let those magistrates e above suspicion of self- finish their time. il should especially avoid "3d. That we will not address a new petition to the a, they wished no militia; government of the United States, because we have the country as free to all, our reasons, and until the line be decided, and the frontiers of the States L as well as English and be fixed. assert themselves as Eng- " 4th. That we are opposed to the regulations an- -4 - , - , - , . -

296 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI ticipated, and exposed to the consequences for the rivals. Unnecessary Lk quantity, direction, etc., of lands, and whatever ex- of that kind, we do not pense for the same lands, because we have no direct " 10th. That the mi guaranty for the government to come; and perhaps rather a danger of bac to-morrow all these measures may be broken. a delay for the necess " 5th. That we do not wish a provisional mode of it is a load; we do not government-too self-interested, and full of degrees, time. useless to our power, and overloading the colony in- " 11th. That we con stead of improving it; besides men of laws and sci- ent, to all nations, till g ence are too scarce, and have too much to do in a new open to every individ, country. any distinction of ori " 6th. That we wish either the mode of senate, or anything, either to be, council, to judge the difficulties, punish the crimes American citizen. (except capital offenses) and make the regulations " 12th. So we, Eng suitable for the people. free, as well as those w " 7th. The same council be elected and composed nia, United States, or of members from all parts of the country, and should and we desire unison N act in a body, on the plan of civilized countries in in this country; or w parliament, or as a jury; and to be represented, for among ourselves, to m example, by the president of said council, and an- suitable to our wants other member as judge of peace, in each county; al- having justice from a lowing the principle of recalling to the whole senate. us, and that our reaso " 8th. That the members should be influenced to be respected. interest themselves to their own welfare, and that of " 13th. That we are the public, by the love of doing good, rather than by government when it cc the hope of gain, in order to take off from the esteem " 14th. That we do of the people all suspicions of interest in the persons laws for necessary ci of their representatives. there are, the more opl " 9th. That they must avoid every law loading and who make a practice oi inexpedient to the people, especially to the new ar- terations there will be THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 297

the consequences for the rivals. Unnecessary taxes, and whatever records are f lands, and whatever ex- of that kind, we do not want them. because we have no direct " 10th. That the militia is useless at present, and ent to come; and perhaps rather a danger of bad suspicion to the Indians and res may be broken. a delay for the necessary labors; at the same time vish a provisional mode of it is a load; we do not want it, either, at the present rested, and full of degrees, time. overloading the colony in- " 11th. That we consider the country free, at pres- sides men of laws and sci- ent, to all nations, till government shall have decided; ve too much to do in a new open to every individual wishing to settle, without any distinction of origin, and without asking him her the mode of senate, or anything, either to become an English, Spanish, or culties, punish the crimes American citizen. and make the regulations " 12th. So we, English subjects, proclaim to be free, as well as those who came from France, Califor- I be elected and composed nia, United States, or even natives of this country; of the country, and should and we desire unison with all the respectable citizens a of civilized countries in in this country; or we ask to be recognized as free and to be represented, for among ourselves, to make such regulations as appear of said council, and an- suitable to our wants, save the general interest of peace, in each county; al- having justice from all strangers who might injure alling to the whole senate. us, and that our reasonable customs and pretensions -s should be influenced to be respected. r own welfare, and that of " 13th. That we are willing to submit to any lawful loing good, rather than by government when it comes. ,o take off from the esteem " 14th. That we do not forget that we must make , of interest in the persons laws for necessary circumstances. The more laws there are, the more opportunity for roguery for those roid every law loading and who make a practice of it; and, perhaps, the more al- especially to the new ar- terations there will be some day. 298 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

" 15th. That we do not forget in a trial that before others who made home all fraud on fulfilling of some points of the law, the Smith and other residE ordinary proofs of the certainty of the fact ought to also there. No more u be duly weighed, so that justice may be done, and no essary to the success of chance be given for fraud. to be found than F. X " 16th. In a new country the more men employed the Sioux country the and paid by the public, the less remains of industry. dian, but one of the pa " 17th. That no one can be more desirous than we publican teacher, and a for the prosperity, ameliorations, and general peace who had seen men tied of the country, and especially for guaranty of our an effort to gain from rights and liberties; and such is our wish for all who allowed as just, he her are, or may become, our fellow countrymen, etc., for to advance American long years of peace. I and used it fully. He v Those favoring the provisional government were and found that, like mc equally active, but reserved their forces for the meet- est settler was much af ing, which, on March 10th, at the Falls, was appoint- thought that the more ed for Champoeg, May 2d. On Tualatin Plains, J. S. the less would be left f Griffin took especially pains to see all the settlers, told that it was custo urging their attendance at Champoeg, and explaining place a tax upon winc to the people recently from the Red River country poor piece of buckskii and Nisqually that under a provisional government, might be thus plaster to be followed by American occupation, they would dens. Matthieu was al be entitled to hold their lands in fee simple; while and had him so well so under British law the country would probably go to government that he the Hudson's Bay Company. The Rocky Mountain through thick and thi men were constitutionally opposed to the monopoly, necessary to organizal and favorable to self-government. A leader among When the day arriN these was Jos. L. Meek, a Rocky Mountain man, long dians were on hand; since famed in both literature and art, as well as in numbers. fireside tales. Shortess, Edmunds (Pickernel), and Champoeg was a p THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 299 Forget in a trial that before others who made homes on the lower Columbia, and ome points of the law, the Smith and other residents of Chehalem Valley were tainty of the fact ought to also there. No more useful man, nor one istice may be done, and no more nec- essary to the success of the American movement, was to be found than F. X. Matthieu, who arrived y the more men employed from the Sioux country the preceding less remains of industry. autumn; a Cana- dian, but one of the patriots. Educated under a Re- be more desirous than we publican teacher, and a follower of Papineau, rations, and general peace and one who had seen men tied ially for guaranty of our back to back and hanged for an effort to gain from England what ich is our wish for all who was afterward allowed as just, he here found once more how countrymen, etc., for the chance to advance American conceptions of human rights, and used it fully. He was living visional government were with Etienne Lucier, and found that, like most of the I their forces for the meet- Canadians, this earli- est settler was much afraid of excessive at the Falls, was appoint- taxation; and thought that the more law and lawyers and On Tualatin Plains, J. S. officers, the less would be left ns to see all the settlers, for the producer. He had been told that it was customary Lhampoeg, and explaining in the United States to place a tax upon windows, n the Red River country and feared that even his poor piece of buckskin t provisional government, between the logs of his house might be thus plastered over n occupation, they would with oppressive bur- dens. nds in fee simple; while Matthieu was able to relieve him of these fears, and had him so try would probably go to well settled in favor of a provisional government y. The Rocky Mountain that he voted with the Americans through thick )pposed to the monopoly, and thin. As it proved this vote was necessary mment. A leader among to organization at that time. When the ocky Mountain man, long day arrived both Americans and Cana- dians ire and art, as well as in were on hand; the latter apparently in larger numbers. dmunds (Pickernel), and Champoeg was a point of high bottom land, pic- 300 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN

turesquely diversified by the water-loving trees, such dians should vote as willows, maple, and cottonwood. Against this without risk, to fin( point the full force of the Willamette River was di- parties. According rected, with the consequence that the shore was worn committee was read, so as to impend with bold front over very deep water. as a whole] was lc For this reason it was a favorite haunt of the In- made is not recorded dians, where they performed remarkable feats of siderable confusion diving and swimming. Being also a place about mid- been said by Griffin t way between the upper and the lower tribes of the who was present, in western Oregon Indians it was invested with its own view of committing I traditions as a council ground of the tribes, and was ticipation in the me( a favorite scene of the weddings as solemnized with grouping of voters, much formality between members of the friendly na- the Americans were stated tive nations. Its selection as the place for the pro- this-" We c posed meeting to consider the formation of a tempo- count "-before (Ira3 rary government was owing to its convenience to the ealled out in his rin settlement of the Canadians, who probably would not vide? " and added, " take the pains to go any great distance from home. It mittee and an organi was thus in the nature of a friendly overture on the The primitive meth part of the Americans, and indicated that they were people of the West ai willing to go more than half way to meet their neigh- Following the tall foi bors owning a British allegiance. strength, and a mod The meeting was at a small house on the river Americans quickly to( bank, but as there was not sufficient room within, was the Canadians on the held outside. Some irregularity as to organizing as to require a count seems to have been met, and it was reported to the passing the lines cot Americans that all the Canadians had been instruct- good men; and on the ed to vote " No " upon all motions. Before perma- good men; Matthieu nent organization it was therefore deemed advisable for the organization. to put a number of motions upon which the Cana- shouted, " Three cheE THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 301 the water-loving trees, such dians should vote " Yes," if consistent; and thus, cottonwood. Against this without risk, to find the actual strength of the two a Willamette River was di- parties. According to the minutes the report of the ice that the shore was worn committee was read, and a motion to adopt [probably front over very deep water. as a whole] was lost. What other motions were favorite haunt of the In- made is not recorded; but the minutes state that con- rmed remarkable feats of siderable confusion existed in consequence. It has eing also a place about mid- been said by Griffin that he engaged Bishop Blanchet, tnd the lower tribes of the who was present, in debate at this juncture, with the t was invested with its own view of committing him and his party to actual par- :und of the tribes, and was ticipation in the meeting. From the votes, and the addings as solemnized with grouping of voters, Le Breton now considered that nembers of the friendly na- the Americans were in a majority. He had scarcely n as the place for the pro- stated this-" We can risk it; let us divide and - the formation of a tempo- count "-before stray seconded the motion, and Meek ng to its convenience to the called out in his ringing voice, " Who's for a di- as, who probably would not vide? " and added, " All for the report of the com- -eat distance from home. It mittee and an organization, follow me! " a friendly overture on the The primitive method of voting, known among the d indicated that they were people of the West and on the Plains, was observed. ilf way to meet their neigh- Following the tall form of Meek, then a man in his egiance. strength, and a model of physical symmetry, the small house on the river Americans quickly took their places on one side, and sufficient room within, was the Canadians on the other. The vote was so close *gularity as to organizing as to require a count in detail. Gray and Le Breton and it was reported to the passing the lines counted for the opposition fifty mnadians had been instruct- good men; and on the side for a government, fifty-two 11 motions. Before perma- good men; Matthieu and Lucier being among those therefore deemed advisable for the organization. Then Meek swung his hat and ons upon which the Cana- shouted, " Three cheers for our side," which were

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302 THE GROWTH OF given with a will from throats that had sounded the battle call in many a frontier fight, or the " gee " and " haw " to many a yoke of oxen; and the hurrahs were echoed back and forth across the Willamette. The Indians, who had assembled in large numbers, witnessed the triumph of the Bostons; and the greater part of the Canadians immediately withdrew, and disclaimed all connection with the meeting.' Those favorable to a government, although having but a partial victory, saw that the next thing to gain all the people was to proceed and organize. On mo- tion the offices of judge, clerk, sheriff, treasurer, three magistrates, three constables, a major and three captains, and a committee of nine for drafting a code of laws, were to be provided by election. A. E. Wil- son was chosen judge; G. W. Le Breton, clerk; J. L. Meek, sheriff; W. H. Willson, treasurer; Burns, Judson, Smith and Compo, were chosen magistrates;

* The following is a list of the fifty-two who voted for the organiza- tion of the Provisional Government, May 2, 1843: Dr. Ira L. Bab- cock, Dr. W. H. Willson, G. W. LeBreton, W. H. Gray, Joseph L. Meek, David Hill, Robert Shortess, Dr. Robert Newell, Reuben Lewis, Amos Cook, Caleb Wilkins, Hugh Burns, Francis Fletcher, Sidney DR. V W. Smith, Alanson Beers, T. J. Hubbard, James O'Neil, Robert One of ti Moore, W. P. Doughty, L. H. Judson, A. T. Smith, J. C. Bridges, Rev. Gustavus Hines, Rev. David Leslie, John Howard, William Mc- Carty, Charles McKay, Rev. J. S. Griffin, George Gay, George W. Ebberts, Rev. J. L. Parrish, Rev. Harvey Clarke, Charles Campo, Dr. W. J. Bailey, Allen Davy, Joseph Holman, John (Edmunds) Pick- ernel, Joseph Gale, Russell Osborn, David Weston, William Johnson, Webley Hauxhurst, William Cannon, Medoreni Crawford, John L. Morrison, P. M. Armstrong, Calvin Tibbetts, J. R. Robb, Solomon Smith, A. E. Wilson, F. X. Matthieu, Etienne Lucier.-Compiled by Geo. H. Himes, with assistance of F. X. Matthieu. THE GROWTH OF ats that had sounded the~ fight, or the " gee " and oxen; and the hurrahs [i across the Wiflamnette. rnbled in large numbers, the Bostons; and the is immediately withdrew,, n with the meeting.' rnment, although having .at the next thing to gain d and organize. On mo- 3lerk, sheriff, treasurer, tables, a major and three nine for drafting a code by election. A. E. Wil- Le Breton, clerk; J. L. Ison, treasurer; Burns, vere chosen magistrates;

*two who voted for the organiza- May 2, 1843: Dr. Ira. L. Bab- 3reton, W. H. Gray, Joseph L. r. Robert Newell, Reuben Lewis, urns, Francis Fletcher, Sidney DR. W. IL WU4LSON ubbard, James O'Neil, Robert O" at t0a foubMon of 801up. n, A. T. Smith, J. C. Bridges, lie, John Howard. William Me- 'riffin, George Gay, George WV. vey Clarke, (hbarkls Campo, Dr. Dlman, ,Tohn (Edmunds) Pick- avid Weston, William Johnson, ,Medoremn Crawford, .John L. Tibhetts, ,J. 'R. Robb, Solomon *u, Etienne Lucier.-Comnpiled F. X. Matthieu.

11 - .., .1 - - - -1 ...l.l...,..-..-,M----...--.-..---..-- -- -,--",-- 1.

AN AMERICAN STATE 303

Ebberts, Bridges, Smith and Matthieu, constables; John Howard, major; McCarty, McRoy, and S. Smith, captains. The Legislative Committee con- sisted of Hill, Shortess, Newell, Beers, Hubbard, Gray, O'Neil, Moore and Doughty. The compensation of the Legislative Committee was fixed at the modest sum of $1.25 per day each, which was at once subscribed by the members of the committee; and Babcock and Parrish immediately engaged to provide for the board of committee when it should meet-the session being fixed not to exceed six days. The committee was to report at Champoeg July 5th, following. The committee accepted the in- vitation of the Methodist Mission to use their gran- ary, at Oregon City, for their sittings, and in this unpretentious structure they held sessions, begin- ning on May 10th. This committee continued its ses- sions two days, each session being opened with prayer; and adjourned to meet again the last Thurs- day in June. The question of greatest difficulty was as to the executive. The very same difficulty that met the first American government was encountered again here in Oregon. The co-operation of the Meth- odist Mission was felt to be essential, but it would be impossible to elect a governor from the mission at that time. Hence it was decided to have an Execu- tive Committee of three. At the meeting assembled at Champoeg July 5th, the report of the committee was strongly combated on this point. Babcock being absent, Gustavus Hines

U 1, - -" , I - F__

304 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST was chosen chairman, and in the debate characterized some of the Canadian the Executive Committee as a hydra-headed mon- pated; but a communic, ster, a new Roman Triumvirate; Jason Lee consid- Company stated briefly ered this an extreme comparison, and believed that as they " had no need o: if a government were desired some sort of executive already provided by t head must be provided. Dr. Babcock-although ap- have seemed almost pr parently not present-*-had expressed his views as that company that th against the Executive Committee, and considered that which had been dependE the Legislative Committee had exceeded its powers and groceries, should no in proposing it, and that with such an executive, or tection " over their ov perhaps with any executive, the movement looked too But time wrought rapid much like an independent government; whereas the The ordinance of 17 intention was for (but) a temporary government. adopted; any person, w Gray, however, closed the argument, justifying the ity, might acquire by sin committee, and concluding that in their circumstances of land, but not at a tow] the actual settlers, not connected with either the Hud- an exception evidently ir son's Bay Company or the Mission, wanted a real sion allowed not over si government, and without an executive this was im- body having taken a cla: possible. The report was then carried with but few A detailed study of th dissenting votes; and Beers, Hill, and Gale welm again in 1845, cannot be elected Executive Committee. ernment greatly affected A code of laws was forthwith adopted, having the lation to his own compai following preamble: " We, the people of Oregon tion of the situation wi] Territory, for the purpose of mutual protection, and place. to secure peace and prosperity among ourselves, In a valuable address agree to adopt the following laws and regulations, un- Scott, for the unveiling c til such time as the 'United States extend their juris- May 2, 1901, is given a Si diction over us. " That Oregon was thus pre-empted which is inserted with as for the American 'Union was distinctly set forth by ble. After noticing the the organizers of this government. At this meeting that " We are here to-da rVol. 31 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 305 I in the debate characterized some of the Canadians, besides Matthieu, partici- be as a hydra-headed mon- pated; but a communication from the Hudson's Bay nvirate; Jason Lee consid- Company stated briefly that they were not included, nparison, and believed that as they " had no need of protection " other than that fired some sort of executive already provided by themselves. Indeed it must Dr. Babcock-although ap- have seemed almost preposterous to the officials of ad expressed his views as that company that the little Oregon community, umittee, and considered that which had been dependent on them even for clothing ee had exceeded its powers and groceries, should now offer to extend their " pro- with such an executive, or tection " over their own magnificent organization. ve, the movement looked too But time wrought rapidly. t government; whereas the The ordinance of 1787 prohibiting slavery was a temporary government. adopted; any person, without reference to national- ie argument, justifying the ity, might acquire by simple occupation a square mile , that in their circumstances of land, but not at a town site or water privilege; but 3nected with either the Hud- an exception evidently in favor of the Methodist Mis- the Mission, wanted a real sion allowed not over six miles square to a religious t an executive this was im- body having taken a claim prior to the act. s then carried with but few A detailed study of the changes made in 1844, and 3eers, Hill, and Gale weit again in 1845, cannot be given here; but as this gov- ttee. ernment greatly affected Dr. McLoughlin and his re- rthwith adopted, having the lation to his own company, a portion of his descrip- We, the people of Oregon tion of the situation will be inserted at the proper te of mutual protection, and place. osperity among ourselves, In a valuable address prepared by Hon. H. W. ng laws and regulations, un- Scott, for the unveiling of the Champoeg Monument, d States extend their juris- May 2, 1901, is given a summary of this government, )regon was thus pre-empted which is inserted with as little abridgment as possi- was distinctly set forth by ble. After noticing the object of the assemblage, vernment. At this meeting that " We are here to-day to commemorate an event [Vol. 81 v f I-, 1 -

306 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STI

that took place on this spot eight and fifty years neer Society of Oregon i ago "; and that this " was the birth of the first by far the most of its pr American Commonwealth, the organization of the to the early formation first American government on the Pacific Coast of ment, the wise laws whi, the United States of America," Mr. Scott proceeds flexible justice with whi to treat of the movement as beginning in interna- " In pioneer days in 0 tional competition, yet conducted with a wise con- ica, the beginning of seti cern for co-operation between the respective ele- immediately by organizal ments. stinct of the race to whic] The following is a condensation of the address: institutions and to organ " Oregon was much more distant from the Atlantic lar forms of law, was ma] States in time, and far more difficult to be reached, so many as one hundred than America was from Europe when the settlement ity in the whole country of the American continent began. The migration tains. Joint occupation across the continent of America was, indeed, the most subjects, and by people f. extraordinary of migratory movements since the party hoping to hold th, date of authentic history. From the Atlantic sea- own country, hastened a board to the Mississippi River it was a movement by were yet very few. Such, comparatively short and easy stages; from the Mis- activity of the Americans sissippi westward it was a single leap. The slender first inferior in numbers column pushed its way over plains and mountains, cendant, and, rapidly re through hostile native tribes and arid wilderness- that followed, they had fu the first parties requiring more than a year for the ment in Oregon long befc journey; the later ones, as the routes were better jurisdiction was finally E known, not less than six months. . . . Nearer to States and Great Britain. us than Jamestown and Plymouth is the heroic age. " This first effort to e, But it is the Provisional Government that is was rooted in this interm our theme. . . . At the outset I shall quote a re- From the transfer of As mark made by a citizen of honored memory, Judge arrival of the American William Strong, who, in an address before the Pio- the year 1840-the Englisl THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 307

Ls spot eight and fifty years neer Society of Oregon in 1879, said: ' Oregon owes " was the birth of the first by far the most of its prosperity and rapid progress dth, the organization of the to the early formation of the Provisional Govern- ment on the Pacific Coast of ment, the wvise laws which were enacted, and the in- Lmerica," Mr. Scott proceeds flexible justice with which they were administered.' lent as beginning in interna- " In pioneer days in Oregon, as elsewhere in Amer- conducted with a wise con- ica, the beginning of settlement was followed almost between the respective ele- immediately by organization of government. The in- stinct of the race to which we belong to establish civil ndensation of the address: institutions and to organize government under regu- aore distant from the Atlantic lar forms of law, was manifest here before there were I more difficult to be reached, so many as one hundred persons of American nativ- i Europe when the settlement ity in the whole country west of the Rocky Moun- nent began. The migration tains. Joint occupation of the country by British kmerica was, indeed, the most subjects, and by people from the United States, each atory movements since the party hoping to hold the for its lry. From the Atlantic sea- own country, hastened action while the inhabitants i River it was a movement by were yet very few. Such, however, was the vigor and d easy stages; from the Mis- activity of the Americans that, though they were at Ls a single leap. The slender first inferior in numbers, they soon gained the as- I over plains and mountains, cendant, and, rapidly reenforced during the years tribes and arid wilderness- that followed, they had fully established civil govern- ng more than a year for the ment in Oregon long before the question of national s, as the routes were better jurisdiction was finally settled between the United r months. . . . Nearer to States and Great Britain. Plymouth is the heroic age. " This first effort to establish a government here )visional Government that is was rooted in this international competition. . . the outset I shall quote a re- From the transfer of Astoria in 1813 down to the i of honored memory, Judge arrival of the American settlers-down indeed to a an address before the Pio- the year 1840-the English influence was decidedly in omm- .--- - --_

II Ii 308 THE GROWTH OF I AN AMERICAN STA I the ascendant. Preponderance of the Americans was making this initiatory me slowly gained. The very first movement of the Amer- not to go too fast, reali ican settlers was in 1840. . . . It contained an al- country, though divided lusion to the conflict with British interests here as a to live together. reason why the United States should take speedy ac- ments-one American, tb tion. influence of the Hudson', " As American influence increased, our pioneers tablished before the Arme became constantly more active and urgent for the looked upon as intrud( formation of a government. .. . We had three Britain never made a ser: classes of Americans in the Oregon country: First, part of Oregon lying so American trappers, or mountain men, who were hos- At this first meeting thei tile to the Hudson's Bay Company, and strongly at- advising the selection or tached to the United States; second, the American pose of drafting a code missionaries, who were already attached to the in- of the country. But an e' stitutions of their own country, which were bound tened action. This was t up with religious freedom; third, American settlers, - [whose antecedents a who had come to make homes and cultivate the soil. length]. " From that ti] But the whole population in 1842 was not more than February, 1841, his nam( 137." the pioneer life of Ore From this exposition of conditions Mr. Scott enu- property, to which there merates the successive steps culminating in the for- known heirs; and as thei mation of the government desired. administration of the pro " On the 7th of February, 1841, a meeting of some question. Most of the A of the inhabitants was held at Champoeg, then the ent at the funeral, and; center, or seat of the principal settlement ' for the discussion turned upon tU purpose of consulting upon the steps necessary to be ment. So a meeting was c taken for the formation of laws, and the election of A committee of seven i ,officers to execute them.' The call was cautiously whose business it should worded, so as to avoid the troublesome question of for the settlements soul national sovereignty; for the Americans, who were It will be seen frc THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 309 derance of the Americans was making this initiatory movement, .y first movement of the Amer- thought it prudent not to go too fast, realizing that the people of ). ... It contained an al- the ith British interests here as a country, though divided in their allegiance, yet had to live States should take speedy ac- together. .. . Thus there were two senti- ments-one American, the other British; and as the influence ience increased, our pioneers of the Hudson's Bay Company was well es- re active and urgent for the tablished before the Americans came, the latter were looked upon as intruders-though in fact Great ment. . .. We had three Britain l the Oregon country: First, never made a serious or definite claim to that mountain men, who were hos- part of Oregon lying south of the Columbia River. At this first meeting there ty Company, and strongly at- was nothing done beyond 4tates; second, the American advising the selection of a committee for the pur- e already attached to the in- pose of drafting a code of laws for the government of the 1 country, which were bound country. But an event soon occurred that has- om; third, American settlers, tened action. This was the death of Ewing Young " homes and cultivate the soil. - [whose antecedents and services are noticed at on in 1842 was not more than length]. " From that time [1834] until his death in February, 1841, his name has a conspicuous place in the pioneer life of Oregon. He [ of conditions Mr. Scott enu- left considerable steps culminating in the for- property, to which there were no legal claimants or ent desired. known heirs; and as there was no probate court, the uary, 1841, a meeting of some administration of the property became a perplexing held at Champoeg, then the question. Most of the American settlers were pres- principal settlement ' for the ent at the funeral, and after the burial service the ipon the steps necessary to be discussion turned upon the necessity of civil govern- n of laws, and the election of ment. So a meeting was organized on the spot. . n.' The call was cautiously A committee of seven was likewise recommended, I the troublesome question of whose business it should be to draft a code of laws for the for the Americans, who were settlements south of the Columbia River. It will be seen from these names [as inserted] -- - ~ I-

i i 310 THE GROWTH OF i AN AMERICAN ST. that there was an attempt at co-operation among the whose name is perpetua different elements of population then in Oregon. Marion County. At th Roman Catholic and Protestant missionaries, sub- pointed time, measures a jects of Great Britain and citizens of the United struction of noxious an States, were associated on the committee. . .. On committee of twelve w the 18th day of February the meeting was adjourned measures for the civil at to meet on the first Tuesday in June ' at the new colony.' The names [a building, near the Catholic Church.' At this second the preponderance of me meeting it was reported that no proceedings had " But the question w been taken meantime by the committee appointed to f was to be based on act draft a constitution and a code of laws, and adjourn- i United States or not, iw t ment was taken 'to the American Mission House, i address of the Canadia on the first Tuesday in October, 1841.' This was the This was signed by n end of the first effort. Neither committee nor as- If English subjects,' nur sembly met again. As might have been expected, c laid aside for the pref political and ecclesiastical jealousies began to I meeting was understood arise. I the appointment of the " During the next two years the project of local was to develop a plan i government remained quiet; but the number of " This committee was Americans was increasing. .. . Early in 1843 ing, called to assemble the project of a Provisional Government was started On the appointed day again. This second attempt was taken partly under American citizens and B cover of a utilitarian scheme. Beasts of prey- in mass meeting, and it bears, panthers, wolves-were very numerous, and port of the committee of the settlers suffered great losses through depreda- cock took the chair, and tions upon their flocks and herds. A preliminary was read. From the cl meeting was held at the Oregon Institute, February it was not doubted that 2, 1843, at which it was moved that a general meet- political organization, t ing be called on the first Monday in March at the United States should e& house of Joseph Gervais, a Hudson's Bay pioneer, ment. Such the report THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 311 ipt at co-operation among the whose name is perpetuated in the town of Gervais, population then in Oregon. Marion County. At this meeting, held 3 at the ap- rotestant missionaries, sub- pointed time, measures were taken for concert in de- and citizens of the United struction of noxious animals; and following this a on the committee. . . . On committee of twelve was appointed to ' consider y the meeting was adjourned measures for the civil and military protection of this iesday in June ' at the new colony.' The names [as inserted] sufficiently show lic Church.' At this second the preponderance of men of United States nativity. Ad that no proceedings had " But the question whether the new organization the committee appointed to was to be based on acknowledged allegiance to the a code of laws, and adjourn- United States or not, instantly came uppermost [the E American Mission House, address of the Canadians is here noticed]. ... )ctober, 18-41.' This was the This was signed by men proclaiming themselves Neither committee nor as- 'English subjects,' numbering about fifty. It was might have been expected, laid aside for the present,' as the business of the tical jealousies began to meeting was understood to have been completed by the appointment of the committee of twelve, which o years the project of local was to develop a plan of organization. iuiet; but the number of " This committee was to report at a general meet- ng. . .. Early in 1843 ing, called to assemble at Champoeg, May 2, 1843. nal Government was started On the appointed day about an equal number of mpt was taken partly under American citizens and British subjects came together ;eheme. Beasts of prey- in mass meeting, and it was announced that the re- -were very numerous, and port of the committee of twelve was ready. Dr. Bab- at losses through depreda- cock took the chair, and the report of the committee and herds. A preliminary was read. From the composition of the committee Oregon Institute, February it was not doubted that it would report in favor of moved that a general meet- political organization, to continue in force until the t Monday in March at the United States should establish a territorial govern- , a Hudson's Bay pioneer, ment. Such the report proved to be. The subjects - - -r- r, , - , -

312 THE GROWTH OF of Great Britain could not be expected to participate and acquiesce, for such action on their part would have amounted to renunciation of their allegiance to Great Britain and consent to the American claim of sovereignty. So when the motion was put that the report be adopted, there was a division on national lines; and so close was it that the chairman was un- able to decide which party had the majority. Then Joseph L. Meek, one of our sturdy pioneers, a native of Virginia, who had come West in a spirit of boyish adventure, and had passed many years on the plains and among the mountains, sprang to his feet and called for a division. Appealing to the Americans, he exclaimed in his impetuous way, 'Who's for a di- vide? All for the report of the committee and or- ganization, follow me! I The effect was electrical. The men on either side fell into their places to be counted. The ayes were fifty-two; the noes, fifty. Another account says the ayes were fifty-five; but it is probable that in the larger number some ab- sentees, or persons who were expected but were not REV. CU present, were included. Upon the announcement of A Pioneer Congregat the vote the opponents of the organization mounted their horses and rode away, and left the field to the Americans. It was a victory to which missionaries, mountaineers, and independent settlers had con- tributed; it was a victory of the American spirit, as- serted by the courageous few, at this remotest out- post of the American Republic. Honor to the spirit and courage of Joseph L. Meek; honor to the leader- THE GROWTH OF lot be expected to participate action on their part would iciation of their allegiance to nt to the American claim of the motion was put that the e was a division on national it that the chairman was un- rty had the majority. Then our sturdy pioneers, a native mne West in a spirit of boyish 3ed many years on the plains tins, sprang to his feet and ppealing to the Americans, he aous way, ' Who's for a di- ort of the committee and or- The effect was electrical. fellz into their places to be re fifty-two; the noes, fifty. le ayes were fifty-five; but it Le larger number some ab- i were expected but were not REV. CUSHING BELLS A PMOeer C(4n0t"laMSt WU10onary Of I2S. Upon the announcement of of the organization mounted way, and left the field to the ictory to which missionaries, Lependent settlers had con- ry of the American spirit, as- is few, at this remotest out- epublic. Honor to the spirit J.Meek; honor to the leader-

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AN AMERICAN STATE 313

ship of one who, though wholly without conventional culture, and lacking even in the elementary parts of school education, proved himself the man for the place and the time." An analysis in detail is then given in this address, itself a monument of the occasion and fittingly placed with the monument of stone of the further growth of this remarkable government, and closes with the following paragraphs: " It has not been my pur- pose on this occasion to go into details as to legisla- tion of the Provisional Government and its organic law. Any account of these details would be too long for the present discourse. Many of them may be had in Thornton's Sketch, to which I have already ad- verted. The organic law itself may be found in Deady's code-a book which, though now out of print, is readily accessible. It is also printed in Brown's " Political History of Oregon "-a book of high value, containing a greater number of docu- ments and facts relating to the Provisional Govern- ment and the early political history of Oregon than has elsewhere been collected. "What shall I say more of the impressive scene that was enacted upon this spot eight and fifty years ago? All the actors save one, the venerable F. X. Matthieu, who providentially is with us to-day, have passed from earth. The results of their work re- main; and what we must regard as a thing of high significance is the fact that they well understood that they were laying the foundation of a State. In what rk, rww---

314 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE they did here that day there was a clear premonition CHj to them that it was a work for unborn ages. The in- stinct for making States, an instinct that so strongly STRUGGLE F characterizes that portion of the human race that has created the United States of America, never had clearer manifestation or more vigorous assertion. On the spot where this work was done we dedicate this monument this day. May every inhabitant of the Oregon country, through all ages, take pride in this spot, and an interest in preservation of this monu- ment, as a memento of what was done here! " .N AMERICAN STATE re was a clear premonition CHAPTER X for unborn ages. The in- n instinct that so strongly STRUGGLE FOR THE COLUMBIA of the human race that has 3 of America, never had more vigorous assertion. ork was done we dedicate fay every inhabitant of the dl ages, take pride in this reservation of this monu- Lt was done here I " WM- - " I -

COONCERNIT in securi States, the ference o any other history of this State. quiry, and already the is quite considerable E claims to remembrance and whether he will bE sentative of those that e Pacific; or whether he i theon of national here sign him, can only be historical conclusions ii of fixing upon any one all the characters were in any just study of I all others. In this cha] journey to Washingtc ton, and an account giv, with which he returned After making a setti at Waiilatpu, among t continued his labors, I the Indians learning t] ilized life, and endeavo tie and sheep, in order I fortably, and cease thE Klamath country, now C>ONCERNING Dr. Whitman and his part in securing Oregon to the United States, there has already been more dif- ference of opinion than in regard to any other one person or matter in the history of this State. It is a theme for special in- quiry, and already the literature upon the subject is quite considerable and increasing. Whether his claims to remembrance will outlive those of others, and whether he will be regarded as the most repre- sentative of those that extended American ideas to the Pacific; or whether he will hold a position in the pan- theon of national heroes, to which some would as- sign him, can only be determined by the course of historical conclusions in the future. But the difficulty of fixing upon any one man, or any one event, where all the characters were significant becomes apparent in any just study of Whitman and his work, as of all others. In this chapter will be related his winter journey to Washington and New York and Bos- ton, and an account given of the immigration of 1843, with which he returned. After making a settlement and erecting buildings at Waiilatpu, among the Cayuse Indians, Whitman continued his labors, laying particular stress upon the Indians learning the arts and industries of civ- ilized life, and endeavoring to supply them with cat- tle and sheep, in order that they might live more com- fortably, and cease their long journeys, now to the Klamath country, now the Yakima, now to the Snake 318 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

River, and perhaps across the mountains to the buf- secretaries were not v falo country. These excursions were often of a pred- opinion had also been c atory character and kept alive the spirit of savagery aries themselves. Gra and contempt of industry. The Cayuses, moreover, man, in 1836, returned were from old time the leading military tribe, and back again in 1838, witl have been called the Romans of the Indians; making Smith, who had attemi themselves lords everywhere. They justly merited per Nez Perces, but ha the name of knights, or horseman, and the name Cay- break the ground, had use has become identified with that of Indian pony. from the stations; GrE Whitman's industry in establishing his mission is September of 1842, ar thus mentioned by Farnham: wich Islands. Spaldir " It appeared to me quite remarkable that the enmity to Mrs. Whitm Doctor could have made so many improvements since constrained the relatior the year 1836; but the industry which crowded every couraging reports were hour of the day, his untiring energy of character, and this account the some the very efficient aid of his wife in relieving him recommended of disc, in a great degree of the labors of the school, are per- missions entirely. On haps circumstances which render possibility proba- after comparing corres ble, that in three years one man, without funds for passed a resolution " t such purposes, without other aid for that purpose ing be recalled, with i than that of a fellow missionary for short intervals, first direct and suitable should fence, plow, build, plant an orchard, and do liam H. Gray be advif all the other laborious acts of opening a plantation the Rev. Asa B. Smitli on the face of that distant wilderness, learn the In- his wife; that Dr. ME dian language, and do the duties, meanwhile, of a nelius Rogers be desig physician to the associate stations on the Clearwater of the mission; and tl and Spokane." thorized to dispose of While considerable success had been attained in southern branch of the several of the missions established by the American In May, however, ( Board, of which there were at one time five, the home meeting of the missior THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 319 s the mountains to the buf- secretaries were not well satisfied. Differences of rsions were often of a pred- opinion had also been developed among the mission- alive the spirit of savagery aries themselves. Gray, who had come with Whit- . The Cayuses, moreover, man, in 1836, returned east and married and came eading military tribe, and back again in 1838, with Eells and Walker, and A. B. ins of the Indians; making Smith, who had attempted a mission among the up- ere. They justly merited per Nez Perces, but had been forbidden by them to rseman, and the name Cay- break the ground, had asked and obtained release with that of Indian pony. from the stations; Gray going to the Willamette in stablishing his mission is September of 1842, and Smith going to the Sand- mn: wich Islands. Spalding had developed an especial [uite remarkable that the enmity to Mrs. Whitman, which for a time greatly many improvements since constrained the relations of Whitman with him. Dis- istry which crowded every couraging reports were written to the Board, and on Lg energy of character, and this account the somewhat summary method was his wife in relieving him recommended of discontinuing the two southern ors of the school, are per- missions entirely. On February 15, 1842, the Board, render possibility proba- after comparing correspondence of the missionaries, e man, without funds for passed a resolution " that the Rev. Henry H. Spald- her aid for that purpose ing be recalled, with instructions to return by the onary for short intervals, first direct and suitable opportunity; that Mr. Wil- plant an orchard, and do liam H. Gray be advised to return home, and also 3 of opening a plantation the Rev. Asa B. Smith, on account of the illness of wilderness, learn the In- his wife; that Dr. Marcus Whitman and Mr. Cor- duties, meanwhile, of a nelius Rogers be designated to the northern branch tations on the Clearwater of the mission; and that the two last named be au- thorized to dispose of the mission property in the ass had been attained in southern branch of the mission." iblished by the American In May, however, of the same year the annual at one time five, the home meeting of the missionaries of this Board was held, - -- - rrbrr tt j -

320 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. a general reconciliation took place, and a letter was written the Board that their difficulties had been set- was not dissimilar from tled, and they now anticipated better results than if possible, a considera] had yet been attained. It appears that the letter of chanics and farmers, w the Board with the order to discontinue the southern respective missions, and branch of the mission reached Whitman sometime to devote more time to in the autumn. On this, or other accounts, Whitman to act as a body of Pr asked that a meeting of the members of the missions counteract the efforts ti be held September 26th, at Waiilatpu. on the part of the Romai Whitman's immediate object in calling a meeting dians from Protestantisi of his associates was to consider the contents of the by him later, he deemed communication from the American Board of For- trv become American , eign Missions, which had been received, and which or- British and Catholic. I dered that his own and Spalding's mission should be time, that is before st abandoned. He greatly regretted this order, as he for encouraging Ameri believed that his mission and Spalding's were now brought by his special de likely, since a general understanding and reconcilia- of his associates, who h, tion had been reached, to enter upon a new field of serted such a purpose. usefulness to the Indians, and that his own in par- jected by critics of the ticular was very valuable as a way point for the sufficient. The contemn American immigrants. The mission question thus his visit to Washington took in his mind the same course as had been the case Secretary of War; and with Jason Lee. His special proposition, to meet the or four years after his I situation, was that he return immediately to the East, turn. lay the matter before the Prudential Committee at Writing October 3d fi Boston-a Board associated with the secretaries of knowledged receipt of ti the society, and consisting largely of Boston busi- explained their action i ness men, whose function was to decide upon ques- Board, " With this view tions of policy-and endeavor to secure the reversal we were so unwilling to of the order. He also had a special project, which for, as it seemed to us, giving up the whole mis [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 321 k place, and a letter was r difficulties had been set- was not dissimilar from that of Lee's; that he secure, pated better results than if possible, a considerable number of Christian me- appears that the letter of chanics and farmers, who should settle around the ) discontinue the southern respective missions, and thus enable the missionaries bched Whitman sometime to devote more time to their own proper work, and other accounts, Whitman to act as a body of Protestants and Americans to members of the missions counteract the efforts that were already under way Waiilatpu. on the part of the Roman Catholics to convert the In- )ject in calling a meeting dians from Protestantism to Catholicism. As stated asider the contents of the by him later, he deemed it important that the coun- kmerican Board of For- try become American and Protestant rather than en received, and which or- British and Catholic. Evidence that he had at that Ilding's mission should be time, that is before starting East, further plans bgretted this order, as he f or encouraging American immigration, has been nd Spalding's were now brought by his special defenders from the recollection ,rstanding and reconcilia- of his associates, who have said that he strongly as- ,nter upon a new field of serted such a purpose. This evidence has been re- and that his own in par- jected by critics of the "Whitman Legend" as in- as a way point for the sufficient. The contemporary evidence is only in Le mission question thus his visit to Washington and his letter later to the Durse as had been the case Secretary of War; and his own claims within three dl proposition, to meet the or four years after his trip East and successful re- l immediately to the East, turn. Prudential Committee at Writing October 3d following, Cushing Eells ac- ad with the secretaries of knowledged receipt of the order for discontinuance, largely of Boston busi- explained their action in May, and stated to the was to decide upon ques- Board, " With this view of the case you will see why vor to secure the reversal we were so unwilling to abandon the south branch, I a special project, which for, as it seemed to us, by giving up that we were giving up the whole mission. Notwithstanding, we [Vol. 3] -, I -

AN AMERICAN STi 322 THE GROWTH OF in destroying the efficiei thought that the object of your letter had been ac- they now all felt that t] complished by the reconciliation which had taken So far as appears froi place, still we felt ourselves placed in a trying situa- pect about the same as t1 tion. We hardly knew what course to pursue, but already successfully acec concluded to wait until we could receive an answer turned East, and had bro to the committee of the mission stating that the dif- White had returned ant ficulties were settled. ... And as we were about hundred. It seemed pr, starting for our place, a proposition was made by Dr. turned and made special Whitman for him to return to the States this winter creased number. His s and confer with the Prudential Committee, and con- forth by Eells' letter, w; duct a reenforcement out next summer, if it was of the upper Columbia, thought best to continue the mission. . . . I have them a considerable nui no doubt if the plan succeeds it will be one of great He had undoubtedly bee] good to the mission and to the country. It is to be the political situation, ai expected that a Romish influence will come in. American immigration a To meet this influence a few religious settlers around 1843. He wrote in May a a mission would be invaluable." bly be a large party of en Eells speaks in his letter of the doubt into which try in the spring of 1843 they were thrown by Whitman's proposition. "We returning with the exp, wanted time to think and pray over it, and proposed party next spring. " Mc to return and send in writing our conclusion. But prospect, saying, "Whe we were told there was no time to be lost, that we came we had breadstufft must decide it now, or it would be too late. one year, but as the imn It seemed death to put the proposition in force, and would be a greater imm worse than death to remain as we were." Eells was evident," etc. It is probably intended by this strong language that the fore, that Whitman was hazards of the winter journey were so great to Whit- formed of the prospect o man that it was a risk that should not be taken; but ble in his circumstances. to give up the southern branch at Waiilatpu, and to The exigencies of his ir break off the work at Lapwai was worse than death, AN AMERICAN STATE 323 THE GROWTH OF in destroying the efficiency of the mission, in which If your letter had been ac- they now all felt that their hearts were united. ,ciliation which had taken So far as appears from this Whitman had in pros- es placed in a trying situa- pect about the same as that which Lee and White had That course to pursue, but already successfully accomplished. Jason Lee had re- re could receive an answer turned East, and had brought back some fiftypersons; fission stating that the dif- White had returned and came back with over one I . And as we were about hundred. It seemed probable to him that if he re- roposition was made by Dr. turned and made special effort he might bring an in- rn to the States this winter creased number. His special object, as clearly set ential Committee, and con- forth by Eells' letter, was to reenforce the missions t next summer, if it was of the upper Columbia, and place around each of he mission. .. . I have them a considerable number of American families. 3eds it will be one of great He had undoubtedly been keeping a careful watch of Lo the country. It is to be the political situation, and also of the probability of fluence will come in. American immigration during the coming season of *wreligious settlers around 1843. He wrote in May of 1842: " There will proba- Lable. " bly be a large party of emigrants coming to this coun- er of the doubt into which try in the spring of 1843. Some young men are now itman's proposition. "We returning with the expectation of bringing out a pray over it, and proposed party next spring." McLoughlin also mentions this iting our conclusion. But prospect, saying, "When the immigration of 1842 io time to be lost, that we came we had breadstuffs enough in the country for would be too late.. .. one year, but as the immigrants reported that there e proposition in force, and would be a greater immigration the next season, it aain as we were." Eells was evident," etc. It is altogether probable, there- 3 strong language that the fore, that Whitman was keeping himself as fully in- ,ney were so great to Whit- formed of the prospect of immigration as was possi- Lt should not be taken; but ble in his circumstances. ranch at Waiilatpu, and to The exigencies of his mission, or the plan of bring- )wai was worse than death, FM,;, >5 *II r a--

324 THE GROWTH OF ing out special emigrants to settle in the Walla Walla Valley, have hardly seemed to some to warrant the hazards of a winter journey; and the fact that he pro- ceeded at once to Washington and held conferences with the Secretary of War, and probably with the Secretary of State and the President, as well as with senators and other public men in Washington and at New York, have pointed to a keen interest in the political status of Oregon, and that he, like Jason Lee and Dr. White, was prepared to give any infor- mation he might obtain in regard to the country and prospects here. The journey East, whatever its ob- ject, was one of much interest, and as it was taken in connection with one of Oregon's most useful pio- neers, Amos Lawrence Lovejoy, afterward one of the founders of Portland, and adjutant general of the Provisional Government, the account given by him is highly valuable as illustrating again with what labors this commonwealth was erected. Lovejoy had scarce- ly reached Whitman's, as related by Medorem Craw- ford, before he was asked by the doctor to accom- pany him East; and with most remarkable courage he complied. In a letter dated Portland, November A. LAWRJ 6, 1869, he gives the following account: " Previous One of the I to our leaving Waiilatpu I often had conversations with the doctor touching the prospects of this coast. The doctor was alive to its interests, and manifested a very warm desire to have this country properly represented at Washington, and after some arrange- ments, we left Waiilatpu, October 3, 1842, overland, THE GROWTH OF settle in the Walla Walla to some to warrant the 000 and the fact that he pro- on and held conferences and probably with the 'resident, as well as with nen in Washingtond. had scarce-Lovejoy and to a keen 7iterest in the and that he, like Jason paxed to tedgive anyNovember inafor-Portland, ,gard to the country and y East, whatever its ob- A, and as it was taken in ,gon's most useful pio- joy, afterward one of the adjutant general of the account given by him is g again with what labors

Lated by Medorem Craw- by the doctor to accom- iost remarkable courageA.LWECLOJY

On. of tb. Pounders Of Porthwnd. ag account: " Previous often had conversations prospects of this coast. nterests, and manifested e this country properly and after some arrange- 3tober 3, 1842, overland,

t

I I .. -- - x 1. = 1 xkv...'-. t- - II

AN AMERICAN STATE 325

for the Eastern States. We traveled rapidly and reached Fort Hall in eleven days, and remained only a day or two and made some few purchases; took a guide and left for Fort Wintee, as the doctor changed from a direct route to one more southern through the Spanish country, via Taos and Santa Fe. [This change was due to the information that there was In- dian war on the Platte.-ED.]. On our way from Fort Hall to Fort Wintee we met with terribly severe weather; the snows greatly retarded our progress, and blinded the trail so that we lost much time. After reaching Fort Wintee and making some suitable pur- chases for our trip, we took a new guide and started on our journey for Fort Macumpagra [Umcom- pagre], situated on the waters of the Grand River in the Spanish country. "Here again our stay was very short. We simply made some few purchases, and left for Taos. After being out some four or five days, as we were passing over some very high table lands, we encountered a most terrific snowstorm, which forced us to seek shel- ter at once. A deep ravine being near by, we rapidly made for it, but the snow fell so rapidly and the wind blew with such violence that it was almost impossible to reach it. After reaching the ravine and cutting some cottonwood trees for our animals we attempt- ed some arrangements to camp as well as we could under the circumstances, and remained snowed in for some three or four days, when the snowstorm subsid- ed, and it cleared off intensely cold. It was with

lI AN AMERICAN S 326 THE GROWTH OF the guide and myself much difficulty that we made our way up upon the boiling foaming strea: highlands; the snow was so deep and the wind so piercing and cold, that we felt compelled to return to under water, horse an after buffeting the M camp and wait a few days for a change of weather. made to the ice on the " Our next effort was (little) more successful, and the stream--leaped fi after spending several days wandering around in the soon had his snow, without making much headway and greatly noble a and I forced in the fatiguing our animals, to little or no purpose, our p tor guide informed us that the deep snow had so changed 's example, and , clothes by a comforta the face of the country that he was completely lost, " With and could take us no further. This was a terrible our new g reached Taos in blow to the doctor. He was determined not to give it about siderably from up without another effort, and we at once agreed that cold a for food were compe the doctor should take the guide and make his way dogs back to the fort and procure a new guide, and that I and such other should remain in camp with the animals until his re- reach. We remained E we changed off our an turn, which was on the seventh day, with a new guide. as our journey require We were soon under way, traveling through the snow at rather a snail's pace. Nothing occurred of much the headwaters of the importance, other than the hard and slow traveling rived about the third left until we reached, as our guide informed us, the Grand here on the sevent I did not meet him aga River, which was frozen on either side about one- of July, above Fort I third across. The current was so very rapid that the with a train of emigre center of the stream remained open, although the " The doctor often weather was so intensely cold. the remainder " This stream was some one hundred and fifty or of his jo he was received at We two hundred yards wide, and was looked upon by Missions at Boston. our guide as very dangerous to cross in its present views with President condition. But the doctor, nothing daunted, was the first to take the water. He mounted his horse and many members of Co AN AMERICAN STATE 327 THE GROWTH OF the guide and myself pushed them off the ice into the de our way up upon the boiling foaming stream. Away they went completely go deep and the wind so under water, horse and all, but directly came up, and elt compelled to return to after buffeting the waves and foaming current, he or a change of weather. made to the ice on the opposite side, a long way down Mtle) more successful, and the stream--leaped from his horse onto the ice, and in the wandering around soon had his noble animal by his side. The guide ch headway and greatly and I forced in the pack animals, followed the doc- little or no purpose, our tor's example, and were soon drying our frozen leep snow had so changed clothes by a comfortable fire. .t he was completely lost, " With our new guide, traveling slowly on, we ier. This was a terrible reached Taos in about thirty days. We suffered con- determined not to give it siderably from cold and scarcity of provisions, and and we at once agreed that for food were compelled to eat the flesh of mules, guide and make his way dogs and such other animals as came within our e a new guide, and that I reach. We remained at Taos some fifteen days, where l the animals until his re- we changed off our animals and made such purchases nth day, with a new guide. as our journey required and left for Bent's Fort, on raveling through the snow the headwaters of the Arkansas River, where we ar- Tothing occurred of much rived about the third of January, 1843. The doctor hard and slow traveling left here on the seventh, at which time we parted, and de informed us, the Grand I did not meet him again until some time in the month m either side about one- of July, above Fort Laramie, on his way to Oregon was so very rapid that the with a train of emigrants. lined open, although the " The doctor often expressed himself to me about )ld. the remainder of his journey and the manner in which one hundred and fifty or he was received at Washington, and by the Board of and was looked upon by Missions at Boston. The doctor had several inter- us to cross in its present views with President Tyler, Secretary Webster, and nothing daunted, was the many members of Congress, touching the interests :e mounted his horse and

I 328 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STAr of Oregon. He urged the immediate termination of versed with Secretary P the treaty with Great Britain relative to this country, ment, with whom he afte and the extension of the laws of the United States, he urged before this depa and [to provide] liberal inducements to emigrants to the others, establishing of come to this coast. He felt much chagrined at the from the Missouri River lack of interest and the great want of knowledge con- and that the Indians of t] cerning Oregon and the wants of this country, a police force to maintain though he was very cordially and kindly received, officered from the posts. and many seemed anxious to obtain every informa- having visited Horace ( tion which he could give them; and I have no doubt Tribune, by whom his wor the doctor's interviews resulted greatly to the benefit favorably mentioned. I of Oregon and the entire coast. closely questioned, but up *' But his reception at Boston was not so cordial. of the meeting of the Pri The Board censured him for leaving his post, for the he desired was granted. waste of time, and the great expense attending so long the southern branch of thE a journey across the continent at that time of the water and at Waiilatpu, w year. The doctor returned to the frontier settlements to be retained, and an ad urging the citizens to emigrate to the Pacific Coast. could be found, was allow After his exertions in this behalf he left for Inde- a suitable body of settlers pendence, and started for Oregon with a large emi- proved. grant train some time in May. With his energy and His services on the joui knowledge of the country he rendered them very the emigrants, are thus i great assistance and continued to do so till he who was in that party. I reached his home, about the first of October [about charge of the mission al a year from the time he left], to find the home of his Walla Valley, was not a choice sadly neglected, and the flouring mill burned he sometimes preached. to the ground. The Indians were very hostile about migration of 1843 from the doctor leaving at the time he did. .. ." near the Snake River [Fo There seems to be no lack of corroborative evi- as a quiet, unassuming m' dence that Whitman visited Washington, and con- acter. He was of powei

I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 329 mediate termination of versed with Secretary Porter of the War Depart- relative to this country, ment, with whom he afterward corresponded; that ; of the United States, he urged before this department, and perhaps before ements to emigrants to the others, establishing of a line of agricultural posts much chagrined at the from the Missouri River to the borders of Oregon, want of knowledge con- and that the Indians of the interior be organized as ints of this country, a police force to maintain the peace, and be suitably f and kindly received, officered from the posts. He also is mentioned as obtain every informa- having visited Horace Greeley, of the New York ; and I have no doubt Tribune, by whom his work as a missionary was very d greatly to the benefit favorably mentioned. At Boston he was rather t. closely questioned, but upon evidence of the minutes on was not so cordial. of the meeting of the Prudential Committee all that waving his post, for the he desired was granted. The order discontinuing pense attending so long the southern branch of the mission, that on the Clear- at at that time of the water and at Waiilatpu, was reversed. Spalding was ;he frontier settlements to be retained, and an additional missionary, if one e to the Pacific Coast. could be found, was allowed. The project to obtain ,half he left for Inde- a suitable body of settlers near the missions was ap- *gon with a large emi- proved. With his energy and His services on the journey across the plains, with rendered them very the emigrants, are thus noticed by J. W. Nesmith, led to do so till he who was in that party. " Dr. Marcus Whitman, in irst of October [about charge of the mission at Waiilatpu, in the Walla to find the home of his Walla Valley, was not a regular clergyman, though e flouring mill burned he sometimes preached. He traveled with the im- rere very hostile about migration of 1843 from the Missouri frontier to e did. ..." near the Snake River [Fort Boise]. I regarded him of corroborative evi- as a quiet, unassuming man, of great purity of char- Washington, and con- acter. HIe was of powerful physical organization,

ON- --- 330 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN Sr and possessed a great and good heart, full of charity doctor has had the w. and courage, and utterly destitute of cant, hypocrisy, tent pitched, and a fi shams and effeminacy, and always terribly in earn- are hazarded in regal est. While with us he was clad entirely in buckskin, ing, and as to why th and rode upon one of those patient long-eared ani- hind. " ... [Aft mals said to be ' without pride of ancestry or hope of posterity. ' The doctor spent much of his time in " There are anxious v for there are many me hunting out the best route for the wagons, and would its inmate before the j plunge into streams in search of practical fords, re- the strange and startli gardless of the depth or temperature of the water, tor may be dangerous and sometimes after the fatigues of a hard day's the absent wagon roll march would spend much of the night in going from ing face and cheery lc one party to another to minister to the sick. While advance, declare with, his moral character was of the highest, he said more both mother and child to us about the practical matters connected with our here and now pay a pJ march than he did about theology or religious creeds, voted man, Dr. Whit and I believe that his conduct among the Indians was name on the reader, n of the same practical, useful character; and that he was impressed with the necessity of teaching them party, or even living; sient, though the goo( habits of industry and economy, as the surest road has long since died a to civilization and happiness. " In one of the most graphic and best composed joined us on the Platl [Fort Boise.-ED.], articles ever produced by a citizen of Oregon-" A Day with the Cow Column of 1843 "-Jesse Apple- domitable energy wer gate has left this picture of Dr. Whitman and his aid grating column. Hi knew was based on a k to the immigrants- was-' travel, travel, " But a little incident breaks the monotony of the you to the end of you march. An immigrant's wife, whose state of health has caused Dr. Whitman to travel near the wagon you that causes a m( for the day, is now taken with violent illness. The thority as a physicia case above referred to THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 331 I good heart, full of charity destitute of cant, hypocrisy, doctor has had the wagon driven out of the line, a ad always terribly in earn- tent pitched, and a fire kindled. Many conjectures ts clad entirely in buckskin, are hazarded in regard to this mysterious proceed- ose patient long-eared ani- ing, and as to why this lone wagon is to be left be- pride of ancestry or hope hind." . . . [After making camp at evening.] r spent much of his time in " There are anxious watchers for the absent wagon, for the wagons, and would for there are many matrons who may be afflicted like 'arch of practical fords, re- its inmate before the journey is over; and they fear temperature of the water, the strange and startling practice of this Oregon doc- fatigues of a hard day's tor may be dangerous. But as the sun goes down of the night in going from the absent wagon rolls into camp, the bright, speak- inister to the sick. While ing face and cheery look of the doctor, who rides in If the highest, he said more advance, declare without words that all is well, and natters connected with our both mother and child are comfortable. I would fain Leology or religious creeds, here and now pay a passing tribute to that noble, de- luct among the Indians was voted man, Dr. Whitman. I will obtrude no other ful character; and that he name on the reader, nor would I his, were he of our aecessity of teaching them party, or even living; but his stay with us was tran- onomy, as the surest road sient, though the good he did us permanent, and he ess. " has long since died at his post. From the time he aphic and best composed joined us on the Platte until he left us at Fort Hall a citizen of Oregon-" A [Fort Boise.-ED.], his great experience and in- a of 1843 "-Jesse Apple- domitable energy were of priceless value to the mi- f Dr. Whitman and his aid grating column. His constant advice, which we knew was based on a knowledge of the road before us, reaks the monotony of the was-' travel, travel, travel-nothing else will take vife, whose state of health you to the end of your journey; nothing is good for to travel near the wagon you that causes a moment's delay.' His great au- with violent illness. The thority as a physician and complete success in the *case above referred to, saved us many prolonged and -U---

332 THE GROWTH OF

perhaps ruinous delays from similar causes, and it is no disparagement to others to say that to no other individual are the immigrants of 1843 so much in- debted for the successful conclusion of their journey as to Dr. Marcus Whitman." These extracts sufficiently show the high and al- most adulatory esteem in which Dr. Whitman was held by the pioneers of Oregon, and add pathos to the tragedy of his death. This explains to a large extent the readiness with which almost any value might be assigned to his services in securing the ter- ritory in dispute to the Americans. His claims to the gratitude and affections of the people of Oregon can never be denied; his services as a statesman must be examined by specialists upon the broader principle of historical criticism. Much has been conjectured as to the originators of the great immigration of 1843. That this large and decisive movement was all due to the efforts of any one person is an hypothesis quite as irrational as that it had no particular precedent conditions. That there was something rather exceptional about it may be inferred in a general way by noticing the numbers of the immigrants for this period of years. In 1842, the first of the regular immigrants, there were 137, as given by Judge Evans; in 1843 they rose to 875; in 1844, they fell to 475; and in 1845 JAMES W reached the large number of about 3,000; but drop- United States Senato ping in 1846 to 1,350; and in 1847 between 4,000 and 5,000; 1843 was therefore the first highwater marks THE GROWTH OF

'rom similar causes, and it hers to say that to no other rants of 1843 so much in- eonclusion of their journey n.1, tly show the high and al- Lwhich Dr. Whitman was )regon, and add pathos to This explains to a large Ewhich almost any value arvices in securing the ter- Vmericans. His claims to Is of the people of Oregon rvices as a statesman must upon the broader principle ired as to the originators of 1843. That this large ,s all due to the efforts of thesis quite as irrational lar precedent conditions. rather exceptional about aeral way by noticing the for this period of years. egular immigrants, there Ige Evans; in 1843 they fell to 475; and in 1845 JAMES )f about 3,000; but drop- W. NESMITH Untoe States 8bstr frtm Oreon. 160 in 1847 between 4,000 and the first highwater mark,

AN AMERICAN STATE 333 and must have had exceptionally favorable precedent conditions. Some of these will be found, as in a suc- ceeding chapter the course of diplomacy is traced; others must be attributed to the personal exertions of individuals. One of these was Dr. White, who led the party of 1842. A considerable number who had been influenced to think of going to Oregon were not ready when White left, and others still thought it more prudent to wait and hear how this first party of immigrants got through and liked the country. One of the left over ones of 1842 was J. W. Nes- mith, then a youth but a little past his majority, a native of the border country between Maine and New Brunswick, and of an old and highly respected Scotch and Irish ancestry. His father had been a man of wealth, but lost his all in the terrible forest fires of 1825 that devastated New Brunswick, and with the one son at length wandered West and died. James WV., the young man, having tasted all the bit- terness of hardship and misfortune, but never losing his native buoyancy, was, in the winter of 1841-2, as he says, in Jefferson County, Iowa, where he heard of Dr. White's party about to cross the plains, and thinking this a good opportunity to take the trip which he had even then been sometime contemplating, he saddled his horse, and rode across western Iowa; but found the party already gone seventeen days. To the visit of Dr. Whitman, and his report of the safe arrival of the last immigrants, and his representa- tions at Washington, Nesmith attributes some com- 334 THE GROWTH OF' AN AMERICAN STAJ motion in Washington, at the capital, and " some his narrow practice in t stir among the ever restless and adventurous fron- never have satisfied. Bi tiersmen. Word was passed that an emigration prime mover in this imm party would start as soon as grass grew. Independ- captain, and a most efficie ence, and particularly a point known as Fitzhugh's at Fitzhugh's Mill, as the Mill, was made the rallying point." This could not organized for the march, have been without some sort of preconcert; and we most interesting and hum find that during the preceding winter Peter H. Bur- to the time-honored Amei nett had been making vigorous efforts to pro- ble to harangue the assemi mote an emigration to Oregon. Burnett was then press the object of the mo a lawyer but had been a merchant in the "Platte of organization, and, mor4 Purchase " of western Missouri. As he himself for responsible position ri tells us very frankly in his " Recollections of a prove their fitness. " M Pioneer, " he had failed in business and under- more familiarly styled, ' ' took law as a means of repairing his fortunes; but a speech. Mounting a lc having learned of the prospects of a new State on the delivered a glowing, florik Pacific Coast had concluded that there, rather than by showing his audience in the Mississippi Valley, was his chance. After con- of States and Territories ferring with his creditors and asking their permis- dundant population, who sion to attempt accumulation of wealth that it room for the expansion seemed impossible to get where money was so scarce genius, and it was a dut3 as along the Missouri frontier, he was bidden go, and posterity to strike or and began with great energy interesting his neigh- panded field and a more bors, and extending his efforts even to distant places. soil yielded the richest As remarked bv one of his party, Ninian Eberman, amount of cultivation-wl of '43, Burnett nearly " took the whole coast " when with perennial fruit-and he did come; becoming at length the first governor of for bread, called La Cam California, a chief justice and a wealthy banker in San where salmon and other Francisco. He was successful in his project, and had and where the principal la the satisfaction of paying in full the obligations that eonfined to keeping their I

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 335 the capital, and " some his narrow practice in ; and adventurous fron- the Platte Purchase could never ed that an emigration have satisfied. Burnett was undoubtedly a prime grass grew. Independ- mover in this immigration, as he became the nt known as Fitzhugh's captain, and a most efficient leader. Of the meeting point." This could not at Fitzhugh's Mill, as the emigrants assembled and of preconcert; and we organized for the march, Colonel Nesmith has left a most interesting and ig winter Peter H. Bur- humorous account. According ,orous efforts to pro- to the time-honored American custom it was desira- ble ,on. Burnett was then to harangue the assembled people, in order to im- press the ierchant in the "Platte object of the movement, show the necessity of organization, ;souri. As he himself and, moreover, to let the candidates Is " Recollections of a for responsible position make themselves known and prove their fitness. " Mr. Burnett, i business and under- or as he was tiring his fortunes; but more familiarly styled, ' Pete,' was called upon for a speech. ~ts of a new State on the Mounting a log the glib-tongued orator that there, rather than delivered a glowing, florid address. He commenced by showing s his chance. After con- his audience that the then western tier of States id asking their permis- and Territories were crowded with a re- ion of wealth that it dundant population, who had not sufficient elbow re money was so scarce room for the expansion of their enterprise and ier, he was bidden go, genius, and it was a duty they owed to themselves and posterity to strike out F interesting his neigh- in search of a more ex- s even to distant places. panded field and a more genial climate, where the )arty, Ninian Eberman, soil yielded the richest return for the slightest the whole coast " when amount of cultivation-where the trees were loaded with ,th the first governor of perennial fruit--and where a good substitute for bread, a wealthy banker in San called La Camash, grew in the ground; I in his project, and had where salmon and other fish crowded the streams; rull the obligations that and where the principal labor of the settler would be confined to keeping their gardens free from the in- 336 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. roads of buffalo, elk, deer and wild turkeys. He ap- fathers had done on tU pealed to our patriotism by picturing forth the glori- principles; and after I ous empire we should establish upon the shores of could make the Americ the Pacific-how with our trusty rifles we should Rocky Mountains, and drive out the British usurpers who claimed the soil, over the shores of the and defend the country from the avarice and pre- glee to construct a strict tensions of the BritishLion-and howposteritywould their undertaking on the honor us for placing the fairest portion of the land tle, thin band, striking , under the stars and stripes. . . . Other speeches continent, having no wa were made full of glowing descriptions of the fair guide them. land of promise, the far-away Oregon, which no one A large promoter of ti in the assemblage had ever seen, and about which not plegate,* a surveyor by more than half a dozen had ever read any account. eminent natural qualities After the election of Mr. Burnett as captain, and given by Nesmith. He M other necessary officers, the meeting, as motley and be named, one of Ore« primitive a one as ever assembled, adjourned with Ayers, a cutler with a c three cheers ' for Captain Burnett and Oregon." and tools from St. Louib Merry, however, as Senator Nesmith-for he be- field, England; John H came judge and senator, as well as colonel-might from England, and inten make with his pioneer friends in recalling that event- but induced by Dr. Whb ful meeting at Fitzhugh's Mill, it is clearly seen that Daniel Waldo, for whom in that motley assemblage, consisting of people from and founder of the high] all the States and Territories, and nearly all nation- name in Oregon; Ninian alities, were all the great ideas that have distin- men who afterward wen guished the American people. It was a company that had listened to the story of the nation's life at *In"Pacific Trail Camp Fire! stated that as many many an Independence Day gathering, as three h and had heard were brought into the organizat discussed by the ablest orators all the great questions much of his information, and a ( of present policy; they knew the history of their letters of Robert Shortess. By race, Shortess it will be seen that th, and were as ready to try on the Pacific as their differed materially from that of ti [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 337 nd wild turkeys. He ap- fathers had done on the Atlantic their traditional picturing forth the glori- principles; and after having cheered the man who blish upon the shores of could make the American Eagle scream across the trusty rifles we should Rocky Mountains, and wave the Stars and Stripes ers who claimed the soil, over the shores of the Pacific, they proceeded with om the avarice and pre- glee to construct a strict and orderly government for -and how posteritywould their undertaking on the way. This was another lit- direst portion of the land tle, thin band, striking out over the immensity of a ... . Other speeches continent, having no warrant but American ideas to descriptions of the fair guide them. ,ay Oregon, which no one A large promoter of the emigration was Jesse Ap- seen, and about which not plegate,' a surveyor by occupation, and a man of d ever read any account. eminent natural qualities. To him greatest credit is Burnett as captain, and given by Nesmith. He was, among others who might e meeting, as motley and be named, one of Oregon's greatest men. Miles ssembled, adjourned with Ayers, a cutler with a considerable stock of knives EBurnett and Oregon. " and tools from St. Louis, but originally from Shef- ator Nesmith-for he be- field, England; John Hobson and his family, also is well as colonel-might from England, and intending to settle in Wisconsin, ids in recalling that event- but induced by Dr. Whitman to come to Oregon; \Jill, it is clearly seen that Daniel Waldo, for whom the Waldo Hills were named consisting of people from and founder of the highly influential family of that ies, and nearly all nation- name in Oregon; Ninian Eberman, one of the young t ideas that have distin- men who afterward went to California and held it ople. It was a company ory of the nation's life at * In " Pacific Trail Camp Fires," by Reese P. Kendall, M.D., it is stated that as many as three hundred of tne immigrants of 1843 - gathering, and had heard were brought into the organization by ; and that tors all the great questions much of his information, and a complete way bill was furnished by letters of Robert Shortess. By comparison with the account of mew the history of their Shortess it will be seen that the route taken by the Peoria party try on the Pacific as their differed materially from that of the inmmigration of 1843. [Vol. 3]

I 338 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA for the Americans; M. M. McCarver, the founder admit of wagon travel. of Linnton in Oregon and of Tacoma in Washington, did not extend. This del one of the early legislators of the State; Henry Hunt, Whitrmlan, who was famil who brought on that trip a complete sawmill; John out. Soon after starting B. McClane, long in the Indian service; Thomas G. with which they began I Naylor, one of the fathers for Forest Grove, and of cumbrous, and the comj progressive agriculture in Oregcn; John Howell, columns, which traveled who gave the name to one of the large prairies of the of each other. Precauti( Willamette; Aimoran Hill, a leading pioneer of Sioux Indians, who were l Washington County; John M. Shiveley, sometimes to the passage of wagons spoken of as the founder of the Astoria as now drove off the buffalo. X known, and first postmaster in Oregon; Solomon each night by simply drii Emerick, one of the most daring of the early plains- ele, with the tongues unite men; Ford, Garrison, Hembree, Dement, the Ma- preceding. Arriving at I thenys, Mauzee, John Ricord-these are a few of informed by the command the names, a list of which is given by Nesmith. Ref- take wagons over the moi erence to this list shows that many of the leading physical impossibility; an( families of Oregon date to the immigration of 1843.* ons left at that post by th( WVhitman, however, as sto For pilot, or guide, Jolm Gantt, an old army of- sistent in his assertions t] ficer, who had long been familiar with the Western as far as the Grand IDall( wilderness, was employed. He said that he knew the which they could be boal way perfectly as far as Green River, and that it would could be driven over the C "It (the immigration of 1843) numbered about nine hundred trail north of Mount Hood. persons, among whom were many men of strong character and con- After passing Fort Ha] spicuous ability, as: James W. Nesmith, Jesse Applegate, Matthew Gilmore, MNI.EM. McCarver, John G. Baker, Absolom J. Hembree, much divided, and as there Daniel Waldo, William T. Newby, Henry A. G. Lee, John and Daniel Indians they came forwar, Holman, Thomas G. Naylor, John B. Jackson, the first American Fort Boise Dr. settler between the Columbia River and Puget Sound; Peter H. Bur- Whitman nett, who went from Oregon to California and became the first gov- Cayuse Indians, Sticcus, ernor of that State after its admission to the American Union, and them; and no more faithfi many more."-H. XV. Scott. AN AMERICAN STATE FHE GROWTH OF 339 admit of wagon travel. Beyond that his knowledge icCarver, the founder did not extend. This deficiency was made up by Dr. 'acoma in Washington, W\hitman, who was familiar with the course through- he State; Henry Hunt, out. Soon after starting the compact military order mplete sawmill; John with which they began the journey was found too ,n service; Thomas G. cumbrous, and the company was divided into two Forest Grove, and of columns, which traveled within supporting distance 1regon; John Howell, of each other. Precautions were taken against the Le large prairies of the Sioux Indians, who were understood to be unfriendly a leading pioneer of to the passage of wagons through their country, and I. Shiveley, sometimes drove off the buffalo. A strong corral was made f the Astoria as now each night by simply driving the wagons into a cir- in Oregon; Solomon cle, with the tongues united at rest to the rear of the ing of the early plains- preceding. Arriving at Fort Hall immigrants were )ree, Dement, the Ma- informed by the commandant, Captain Grant, that to l-these are a few of take wagons over the mountains to the West was a by Nesmith. Ref- iven physical impossibility; and he showed them the wag- of the leading Lt many ons left at that post by the party of the year before. > of 1843.* immigration Whitman, however, as stated by Nesmith, was per- Gantt, an old army of- sistent in his assertions that wagons could proceed diliar with the Western as far as the Grand iDalles of the Columbia, from [e said that he knew the which they could be boated down, and the cattle River, and that it would could be driven over the Cascades by an old Indian numbered about nine hundred trail north of Mount Hood. His advice prevailed. I of strong character and con After passing Fort Hall the emigration became ith, Jesse Applegate, Matthew much divided, and as there was no longer fear of the Baker, Absolom J. Hembree, wry A. G. Lee, John and Daniel Indians they came forward in smaller bodies. At ,. Jackson, the first American Fort Boise Dr. Whitman was met by some of his A Puget Sound; Peter Hi. Bur- rnia and became the first gov- Cayuse Indians, Sticcus, or Isticus, being one of )n to the American Union, and them; and no more faithful man than Sticcus ever

I

-.I- 340 THE GROWTH OF F_ I piloted a body of now entirely disconnected and prac- tically defenseless men and women and children. I For Whitman received word that his services would I be needed at Lapwai, and hastened forward in a light wagon to make this added trip. With him rode J. B. MeClane, who has left an account of the doctor's placing poles to indicate the route, with written in- structions as to grass and water and camping places. Stiecus, however, remained with the advance por- tion of the immigrants, and showed them the best passes through his own ancestral Blue Mountain country. He never failed in his kindness to the whites, and at the massacre of Whitman at Waiilatpu did all in his power to guard and protect the chil- dren that were spared. Even in this haughty and recalcitrant tribe there proved to be some who were faithful to the last to the original impulses of hu- manity. With the arrival of the immigration of 184.3 the preponderance of interest swung to the American side. At this point in the history the character of the great-hearted chief factor at Vancouver shines out with unusual brightness. During the absence of Dr. Whitman on his mission East the Cayuse Indians be- came very troublesome. They were opposed to his going, feeling that he might bring a large body of whites to occupy their country and diminish their power. His intentions for them were most generous; urging upon the Secretary of War that sheep were better than soldiers for the Indians, and already plan-

I THE GROWTH OF

,ly disconnected and prac-. id women and children. d that his services would tstened forward in a light rip. With him rode J. B. account of the doctor's Le route, with written in- nd showed them the best Lucestral Blue Mountain in his kindness to the of Whitman at Waiilatpu - i~rd and protect the chil- yen in this haughty and ved to be some who were originalrater and impulsescamping places.of hu- f the immigration of 1843 gtI withswung the to theadvance American por- - ory the character of the at Vancouver shines out )uring the absence of Dr. st the Cayuse Indians be- hey were opposed to his it bring a large body of mntryhem-ndians,of War wereand andthat mostdiminish already sheep generous; plan-theirwere

AN AMERICAN STATE 341 ning a measure for employing them as guardians of the peace in connection with agricultural and post stations under a government officer. But this was unknown, or at least uncomprehended by this jealous tribe. In the absence of Dr. Whitman they suffered without redress an attempted intrusion into Mrs. Whitman's apartment. By this she became alarmed and accepted the invitation of Pambrun to go to Fort Walla Walla. During the summer she went to the Jalles, and was also most handsomely entertained in the family of McLoughlin at Vancouver, and among the missionaries of the Willamette Valley, and at Clatsop. News of the arrival of the Americans preceded them. McLoughlin observed that the Indians were excited, and biding his time soon learned that they would be determined in their treatment of the immi- grants by his disposition. He maintained a close watch, and as the first stragglers of the now all but disorganized companies were arriving, in canoes, he was standing upon the bank, while somewhat nearer the water was a group of about a dozen Indians. One of them suddenly bawled out in his Indian language, It is good to kill these Bostons." Perceiving in- stantly that this was but an attempt to sound him, and knowing that if he regarded the suggestion with any appearance of satisfaction, or even of indiffer- ence, it would be taken as permission, he instantly showed his intense displeasure. He rushed upon them with his cane, and called out and shouted in his 342 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE

tremendous voice, using the term most deeply cut- Chi1 ting to an Indian, " Who is the dog that says that it is a good thing to kill the Bostons7 " The Indian PROGRESS OF PUBLIC who had thus drawn the doctor's ire now trembled and said that he meant no harm; he was simply re- peating what he had heard the Dalles Indians say- ing. " WVell," answered the doctor, showing all his displeasure still, and without softening, " the Dalles Indians are dogs for saying so; and you also. " And abruptly left him. By this, as the doctor fully be- lieved, the Indians became convinced that any wrong to the Americans would be punished by the Hudson's Bay Company. This was the authority they then respected, and McLoughlin was the one man they feared. Boats for transportation were freely supplied, and all necessary provisions were furnished. Some of the immigrants were destitute, but these were not therefore subjected to discrimination. As mentioned heretofore, McLoughlin understood that there would be a large immigration, and had encouraged a large sowing of wheat; so there was bread in the coun- try. That a business man should provide supplies for a community may seem as no more than should be expected; and refusal to sell, or even to extend on credit what families needed would certainly be con- sidered a great wrong. The singularitywas that these immigrants were likely to terminate his fur business. AMERICAN STATE

term most deeply cut- CHAPTER XI he dog that says that it ostons l " The Indian PROGRESS OF PUBLIC OPINION AND NEGOTIATION tor's ire now trembled rm; he was simply re- he Dalles Indians say- doctor, showing all his softening, " the Dalles ; and you also." And as the doctor fully be- vinced that any wrong aished by the Hudson's ie authority they then vas the one man they

re freely supplied, and z furnished. Some of -e, but these were not ination. As mentioned stood that there would Lad encouraged a large ras bread in the coun- Lould provide supplies s no more than should L1,or even to extend on ,ould certainly be con- tgularitywas that these iinate his fur business. GVOVERNME: has been 4 will of the were but t what the more nearly our govern its function, and has leai the wishes of the masses parently, has it preserve vanced its possessions a arms between the States be a test of the doctrine, and administered by thE the experience and sustE maintain its existence. I and the Oregon Question tested whether a popular trate the interest and fu into effect the wishes of territorial expansion the business necessities and I retically it would be expe voice of the people would government would halt v overwhelming. Such, in fact, we find t, ment has been accused and on more than one oc( allowing the necessary a event gained all that the GVOVERNMENT in the United States has been conceived to rest upon the will of the people; and that its acts were but the embodiment into law of what the citizens preferred. The more nearly our government has thus understood its function, and has learned and carried into effect the wishes of the masses, the more thoroughly, ap- parently, has it preserved its dignity and has ad- vanced its possessions and power. The conflict of arms between the States was said by Mr. Lincoln to be a test of the doctrine, that a government chosen and administered by the people, could concentrate the experience and sustain the power necessary to maintain its existence. In the settlement of Oregon, and the Oregon Question growing out of this, it was tested whether a popular government could concen- trate the interest and furnish the wisdom to carry into effect the wishes of a growing people for the territorial expansion that would meet their future business necessities and political aspirations. Theo- retically it would be expected that in such a case the voice of the people would be heard first, and that our government would halt until public opinion became overwhelming. Such, in fact, we find to be the case. The govern- ment has been accused of supineness, dilatoriness, and on more than one occasion came perilously near allowing the necessary action to lapse; but in the event gained all that the people contemplated, and M_ M - M

346 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST even exceeded expectations; and this in final con- survival of the Colonia] troversy with a government so active as that of Great and of the executive de Britain, which has not been restricted to popular of that sense as it ros opinion, and which has the reputation of never yield- pression. ing a possession once coveted. The mouth of the ( Colonel Nesmith, in one of his jovial Pioneer Day Gray in 1792. It was es Addresses, has said: " I was a poor, homeless youth, cipal sources to the m destitute alike of friends, money, and education. 1805. A settlement by Actuated by a reckless spirit of adventure, one place Point in 1809. A fur-i American on Snake R was to me the same as another. . . . But in the emigration that accompanied me there were staid men founded by an Americo of mature years and cultivated intellects-men who the British in 1813; was left comparatively comfortable homes and friends; By agreement between 4 and with their wives and children gave up the ad- States the forty-ninth vantages of civilization to cross a desert beset with Rocky Mountains becai hostile savages, to go they knew not whither. left to joint occupancy The fled from no such evils as brought either the tween the UInited States Pilgrims or Cavaliers ... nor were led by the fixed on latitude 42 del inducements that sent Cortez to the New World. kansas to the Pacific. I Then, it may be asked, why did such men peril every- sian claims were limite( thing-burning their ships behind them, exposing 40 minutes. In 1821 Y their helpless families to the possibilities of mas- a bill in Congress autl] sacre and starvation, braving death-and for what tion of Oregon. This purpose? I am not quite certain a rational answer 817 by Hall J. Kelley will ever be given to that question." The proximate considered inconsistent answer, at least, is found in the strongly diffused treaty of joint occupati sense of national need of Oregon, the Columbia River with proviso of a year route, and the open Pacific. This had been fed by al- abrogate. In 1838 Linm most unremitting public discussion since the days of into the Senate authori Lewis and Clark, or even of Ledyard, and was the the Columbia, and a ter THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 347

and this in final con- survival of the Colonial days. The acts of Congress so active as that of Great and of the executive department furnish the record m restricted to popular of that sense as it rose to public and political ex- Reputation of never yield- pression. d. The mouth of the Columbia was discovered by f his jovial Pioneer Day Gray in 1792. It was explored from some of its prin- s a poor, homeless youth, cipal sources to the mouth by Lewis and Clark in money, and education. 1805. A settlement by Americans was begun at Oak t of adventure, one place Point in 1809. A fur-trading post was built by an her. . .. But in the American on Snake River in 1810. Astoria was I me there were staid men founded by an American in 1811; was captured by ited intellects-men who the British in 1813; was restored to America in 1818. ible homes and friends; By agreement between Great Britain and the United hildren gave up the ad- States the forty-ninth parallel as far west as the !ross a desert beset with Rocky Mountains became the border; Oregon was -new not whither. left to joint occupancy. In 1819 the boundary be- Ls as brought either the tween the IUnited States and Spanish possessions was . nor were led by the fixed on latitude 42 degrees, from head of the Ar- tez to the New World. kansas to the Pacific. In 1824, and in 1825, the Rus- lid such men peril every- sian claims were limited on the north to 54 degrees, behind them, exposing 40 minutes. In 1821 Floyd, of Virginia, introduced he possibilities of mas- a bill in Congress authorizing the military occupa- ng death-and for what tion of Oregon. This followed publications since artain a rational answer 1817 by Hall J. Kelley; but was not passed, being estion." The proximate considered inconsistent with the treaty. In 1828 the In the strongly diffused treaty of joint occupation was indefinitely renewed, ~gon, the Columbia River with proviso of a year's notice by either power to This had been fed by al- abrogate. In 1808 Linn, of Missouri, brought a bill ,ussion since the days of into the Senate authorizing a fort at the mouth of f Ledyard, and was the the Columbia, and a territorial government for Ore-

- -.A 348 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S gon north of latitude 42. Following this was a me- ble by water commur morial from residents of Oregon forwarded by Jason inducement to many ( Lee. the fact that in Orego This memorial, already noticed more fully, signed Missouri farmer wit by J. L. Whitcomb and thirty-five others, was drawn with the slave-owninE March 16, 1838, and presented to Congress by Linn, fact that Great Britai January, 1639; Linn's bill, of 1838, was referred to part of it, stimulated a committee of five, himself chairman, but failed of By 1839 many pe passage. In the meantime, as ably noticed by J. C. from individuals, or Calhoun-" Now our population may be safely esti- extended to Oregon, mated at not less than nineteen millions-of which ed to emigrants. Oni at least eight millions inhabit the States and Terri- tory, is from twelve n tories in the valley of the Mississippi, and of which " The Oregon Provi one million are in the States and Territories west of settle west of the Roe that river." Immigration into the West was becom- L such special privi ing greatly accelerated. The migratory habit once granted them as shal encouraged and accustoming the people to free lands, orable bodies be cor and the expansive life of the primitive agriculture, terest of the United led the way to a desire to occupy the Columbia Val- mote the welfare of E ley. The reasons actuating the people were natural In 1840 the petiti. enough. Free lands were rapidly disappearing in others, already ment the Mississippi Valley; malarial diseases made life 27th, of the same ye a burden to many in the new States of that region. sented a petition of West of Missouri and Iowa, in Kansas and Nebraska, citizens of his State, winters were severe, summers dry, timber scarce, Snake River, and as transportation prohibitive to farm produce before presented a petition railways should be built; and danger from Indians citizens of Ohio, ask not inconsiderable. In Oregon land was free, range States be extended o unlimited, the country well timbered and well wat- ator Young, of Kent ered, malaria little known, and the country accessi- eitizens of his State THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 349

Allowing this was a me- ble by water communication by sea. Another great ,on forwarded by Jason inducement to many of the people of Missouri lay in the fact that in Oregon there was no slave labor. The ticed more fully, signed Missouri farmer without slaves could not compete D-five others, was drawn with the slave-owning planter. To these motives the id to Congress by Linn, fact that Great Britain desired Oregon, or the larger )f 1838, was referred to part of it, stimulated the spirit of patriotism. chairman, but failed of By 1839 many petitions were sent to Congress Ls ably noticed by J. C. from individuals, or companies, asking that laws be tion may be safely esti- extended to Oregon, or military protection be grant- een millions-of which ed to emigrants. One such, inserted in Brown's his- t the States and Terri- tory, is from twelve men stating that they had formed Lssissippi, and of which " The Oregon Provisional Emigration Society," to and Territories west of settle west of the Rocky Mountains, and praying that to the West was becom- " such special privileges and immunities may be L migratory habit once granted them as shall in the judgment of your hon- the people to free lands, orable bodies be consistent with the honor and in- 3 primitive agriculture, terest of the United States, and calculated to pro- mupy the Columbia Val- mote the welfare of settlers in Oregon." he people were natural In 1840 the petition signed by David Leslie and apidly disappearing in others, already mentioned, was prepared. February Lrial diseases made life 27th, of the same year, Mr. Toppen, of Ohio, pre- , States of that region. sented a petition of two hundred and thirty-eight i Kansas and Nebraska, citizens of his State, wishing to make a settlement on rs dry, timber scarce, Snake River, and asking protection; and Mr. Allen ) farm produce before presented a petition of one hundred and thirty-three [ danger from Indians citizens of Ohio, asking that the laws of the United on land was free, range States be extended over Oregon. On April 23d, Sen- imbered and well wat- ator Young, of Kentucky, presented a petition from ad the country accessi- citizens of his State for grants of land in Oregon, 350 THE GROWTH OF and the privilege of taking negroes with them. On March 31st, Linn introduced his bill, relative to which the Baltimore AAmerican said: " Within a year or two past the attention of public men has been turned occasionally to the subject, and its great im- portance is beginning to be acknowledged. It will cost some trouble to retrieve what has been suffered to go contrary to our interests and rights, through remissness on the part of the nation hitherto." Linn's bill, summarized, was as follows:-That the title of the United States to the territory of Ore- gon is certain, and will not be abandoned; that the President is authorized to take measures to have the boundaries ascertained and fixed, and in the mean- time protect its citizens; that he be authorized to erect a line of military posts from Leavenworth to the Rocky Mountains, for encouragement of emi- grants; and that to every white male citizen in Ore- gon over eighteen a grant of one thousand acres be made, on residence of five years. This was the great Linn bill in its inception, and was the response to citizens wishing to settle in Oregon. It was taken by the people as promise of what would be done if Ore- gon was secured. They soon began organizing par- ties to go and take it. The continued demands of the people and the suc- cessful efforts for colonization under Lee, White, Whitman, and independent American settlers, had thus brought the legislative branch of the govern- aW1_ Mit" .J, ',0 k, 1, ment to the verge of its power in the matter. The THE GROWTH OF ng negroes with them. On duced his bill, relative to *ican said: " Within a year n of public men has been Lsubject, and its great im- be acknowledged. It will eve what has been suffered erests and rights, through of the nation hitherto." was as follows:-That the to the territory of Ore- )t be abandoned; that the take measures to have the d fixed, and in the mean- that he be authorized to ists from Leavenworth to encouragement of emi- white male citizen in Ore- of one thousand acres be 'ears. This was the great and was the response to Oregon. It was taken by tat would be done if Ore- )n began organizing par-

r the people and the suc- tion under verAmericanbranch in the I of Imatter. settlers, I---Lee,the governh-----White, The had

AN AMERICAN STATE 351

Floyd bill, and the first Linn bill, although both serv- ing purposes of agitation, failed because their pro- visions were not clearly within treaty rights. That the executive must act, or that the existing treaty be modified or abrogated, was evident, if any progress toward settlement should be made. The executive department had from the first, or rather since the days of Jefferson, been cautious, not to say delicate, or weak, in treating the subject. Adams, as has been noticed, at one time called atten- tion of the American minister to the " minuteness " of the concerns involved. In 1818, and again in 1826, the American ministers had offered to Great Britain all the territory north of the parallel of 49 degrees. This was regarded by them as a concession, as at the latter date they claimed the full benefit of American and Spanish discovery above that line. But being repeated a number of times, this became impressed upon the British as the extreme of the American claim, and that if the boundary was to be settled as a compromise, some line between 49 degrees and 42 degrees, the Spanish line, should be struck; and this compromise line seemed to them as " naturally " that of the Columbia. This, to their conception, gave America about four degrees of coast, and Great Britain but little over three of the disputed tract. What could be fairer? It afterward grew upon their mind that the line should run from the Rocky Mountains to the Columbia by the 49th de- gree, and that they might allow a detached territory AN AMERICAN Sr 352 THE GROWTH OF interpretation of the C -consisting of the Olympic Mountains - from ist party section, and i Gray's Harbor to the Straits of Fuca, and around to the functions of gover: and including Port Discovery. The free navigation ing toward British inf of the Columbia was also to be included. This, while retary of State the en having the appearance of a concession, was not such the possibilities of di in reality; as during times of peace the ports of all the boundarybetweenl friendly countries are considered free under modern remained unsettled, g usage; and in time of war all treaty rights are broken ritation. On the Nor off. unsettled, and betweei In this condition of affairs, with none too firm British Fur Company an executive on the American side, and a British rival putes might arise that ready to press his claim to the extreme, the question Americans to war. 0 came to the administration of Harrison and Tyler, State was rising to lea entering office in 1841. This was the Whig adminis. for its annexation, eve tration, and by the death of the bluff old Tippecanoe, Mexico. As a result affairs were devolved very soon upon the Vice-Presi- cum, also, President dent, who, like many in that situation, have felt them- ously consider the n selves less strongly committed to the pledges of their San Francisco Bay, party. The party difficulties of the Whigs need not latitude 36 degrees. ] be alluded to except to notice-which is of great in- difference in the laws terest as the most critical point in the national part Southern sections on of the history of Oregon-that the conditions brought system of labor, were about made Daniel Webster the central figure of the ing the country to the administration. Webster, whose great abilities and the imminent danger ( services had been occupied in defending the powers accordance between t of the Constitution, was about the only solid pillar as a statesman, saw c upon which the administration could depend. To him ing all disagreement fell the duty of shaping the public policy of the gov- good understanding a ernment, with a view of conciliating all the many The first occasion inharmonious elements, and uniting them under the [vel. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 353 ympic Mountains -from interpretation of the Constitution. With his Federal- its of Fuca, and around to ist party section, and his Hamiltonian construction of 7ery. The free navigation the functions of government, went also a strong lean- o be included. This, while ing toward British influences. When he became Sec- a concession, was not such retary of State the entire horizon was charged with s of peace the ports of all the possibilities of disturbance. On the Northeast 3idered free under modern the boundarybetweenMaine and the British provinces ll treaty rights are broken remained unsettled, giving constant occasion for ir- ritation. On the Northwest the boundary was also fairs, with none too firm unsettled, and between the conflicting interests of the an side, and a British rival British Fur Company and the American settlers dis- , the extreme, the question putes might arise that would inflame both British and a of Harrison and Tyler, Americans to war. On the Southwest the Lone Star is was the Whig adminis, State was rising to lead the Southern States to clamor e the bluff old Tippecanoe, for its annexation, even though this brought war with soon upon the Vice-Presi- Mexico. As a result of the representations of Sla- t situation, have felt them- cam, also, President Jackson had been led to seri- ;ted to the pledges of their ously consider the national necessity of acquiring Les of the Whigs need not San Francisco Bay, and all the territory down to ice-which is of great in- latitude 36 degrees. The question of slavery, and the point in the national part difference in the laws applicable to the Northern and hat the conditions brought Southern sections on account of the difference in the r the central figure of the system of labor, were also only too apparently driv- whose great abilities and ing the country to the verge of internal strife. With in defending the powers the imminent danger of war with Mexico, and the dis- bout the only solid pillar accordance between the North and South, Webster, ion could depend. To him as a statesman, saw quickly the advisability of clos- ! public policy of the gov- ing all disagreement with England, and reaching a -onciliating all the many good understanding as quickly as possible. I uniting them under the The first occasion was presented with Lord Ash- EVol. 3] 354 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STi burton's mission. Webster was evidently ready to This letter to WebstE meet Ashburton fully half-way, even upon the North- fiee, London, October 18, eastern boundary question. Ashburton was conduct- of the Northwestern boi ing negotiations during the early part of 1842, and of Oregon, prepares o- the treaty bearing his name was concluded August we find Webster ready 9th of that year. As stated by the Earl of Aberdeen, noticed, that if the tw who wrote almost immediately to Webster as to the united the more importai Northwest boundary: " Lord Ashburton was fur- would fail, was evidently nished with specific and detailed instructions with re- though he was criticize spect to this point of difference [the Northwestern Great Britain in Maine, boundary also] between the two governments, as well ratified. He must there as the Northeastern "; but these were not taken up, proposed to Ashburton, as further stated by Aberdeen: " For reasons which side, even more likely to it is not necessary to state here at length, that point, deen was also ready, al after having been made the subject of conference with ratifications of the Ashl the American Secretary of State [Mr. Webster], was which was October 13th, not further pressed. The main ground alleged by the Oregon boundary. | his Lordship for abstaining from proposing to carry tage was at least not X on the discussion with respect to the Northwestern with America; and also boundary, was the apprehension lest, by so doing, the extent advised of whal settlement of the far more important matter of the would be. His conclusic Northeastern boundary should be impeded, or ex- be on the basis of equ posed to the hazard of failure. This ground of ap- that the line of the Colt prehension no longer exists." Webster was there- other line was ever con fore urged by Aberdeen, renewing the negotiation compromise. Webster's October 18, 1842, to take up the matter of the Oregon tion that the matter sh boundary at once with the President; his Lordship by his answering on I concluding that his government was prepared to con- sent by Mr. Fox, on the: sider this in " a perfect spirit of fairness, and to he had laid the matter bc adjust it on a basis of equitable compromise." curred in making the q THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 355

was evidently ready to This letter to Webster, dated at the Foreign Of- %y, even upon the North- fice, London, October 18, 1842, proposing a settlement Ashburton was conduct- of the Northwestern boundary, and to settle the fate early part of 1842, and of Oregon, prepares one for the concessions that was concluded August we find Webster ready to make. The apprehension y the Earl of Aberdeen, noticed, that if the two boundary questions were fly to Webster as to the united the more important matter of the Northeastern )rd Ashburton was fur- would fail, was evidently rather that of Webster. Al- led instructions with re- though he was criticized for yielding too much to ence [the Northwestern Great Britain in Maine, nevertheless the treaty was wo governments, as well ratified. He must therefore have contemplated, and these were not taken up, proposed to Ashburton, concessions on the Oregon n: "For reasons which side, even more likely to meet with opposition. Aber- are at length, that point, deen was also ready, almost upon the day that the ibject of conference with ratifications of the Ashburton treaty were received, tate [Mr. Webster], was which was October 13th, to propose consideration of nain ground alleged by the Oregon boundary. This showed that the advan- from proposing to carry tage was at least not apprehended as likely to be ect to the Northwestern with America; and also that he was already to some ;ion lest, by so doing, the extent advised of what the American concessions important matter of the would be. His conclusion that the adjustment would uld be impeded, or ex- be on the basis of equitable compromise indicates re. This ground of ap- that the line of the Columbia was anticipated, as no ." Webster was there- other line was ever considered by the British as a mnewing the negotiation compromise. Webster's own readiness and expecta- the matter of the Oregon tion that the matter should be concluded is shown "resident; his Lordship by his answering on November 25th the dispatch ent was prepared to con- sent by Mr. Fox. on the 15th; in which he stated that irit of fairness, and to he had laid the matter before the President, who con- ble compromise. I curred in making the question respecting the Ore-

1 I NW -s, ______I

356 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

gon Territory the subject of " immediate attention would have amounted t and negotiation. " And added that the President al- His intentions were br, ready was intending to make this a feature of his thought would have sv message to Congress. It is not improbable that Web- sky; it was simply to f( ster had outlined a policy to which Ashburton had Northeastern boundary acceded, and was formulating a plan by which a con- also complete Jackson' cession that would be very unpopular at the West Bay, and pacify the S might be popular at the South, and thus carry wanted in Texas. A tri] through the Senate. In the same communication- as well as Great Britai to Fox-he intimated that the negotiation would be terest, with the Unite( transferred to London, concluding-" and, at no dis- mated. The plan was' tant day, a communication will be made to the United ous statesman; but was States minister at London." and compromises of thi His plan-as now known-in thus carrying the a spirit that was willi business across the water was chiefly that he might rights. conduct it himself. He was remaining in Tyler's As stated by Bourne cabinet with no other object but to finish the policy him very guardedly, which he felt to be very important, and in order to Quincy Adams, who " conclude this sought the position of minister at Lon- March 25th, in the cou don, which was in part a way of leaving the cabinet, It was to yield to Engl but chiefly, no doubt, as the most certain means of Columbia River, excep completing his diplomacy. Puget Sound, if Eng Webster's plan, the historical proofs of which are quiesce in our acquisi found in the diary of John Quincy Adams, has not Francisco harbor nort been brought to public notice until recently,' and Texas to the United St hand that the President and the well-known leaning of * " There was reason for uneasiness in with England which would i got by treaty Mr. Webster toward certain commercial advantages to be North Pacific Coast such as of the value of the Oregon from Great Britain, and his low estimate willing for a moment to coni States. We now know that for this and for Territory to the United the territory surrendered w time in regard to other reasons the prevalent apprehensions of the found wholly, if at all, on the the Oregon Territory were not groundless. The evidence is now at THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 357

of " immediate attention would have amounted to a fatal sacrifice of Oregon. Ided that the President al- His intentions were broad and patriotic, and as he lake this a feature of his thought would have swept all the clouds from the not improbable that Web- sky; it was simply to follow up the settlement of the to which Ashburton had Northeastern boundary by that of the Northwest, and ing a plan by which a con- also complete Jackson's views as to San Francisco y unpopular at the West Bay, and pacify the South by gaining all that was South, and thus carry wanted in Texas. A tripartite plan, including Mexico he same communication- as well as Great Britain, on the basis of mutual in- the negotiation would be terest, with the United States, was to be consum- Lcluding-" and, at no dis- mated. The plan was worthy of a great and gener- will be made to the United ous statesman; but was vitiated, even as all the plans and compromises of the Whigs of that day were, by vn-in thus carrying the a spirit that was willing to overlook and sacrifice was chiefly that he might rights. vas remaining in Tyler's As stated by Bourne, Webster's plan was held by ct but to finish the policy him very guardedly, but was disclosed to John uportant, and in order to Quincy Adams, who " wormed it out of Webster on sition of minister at Lon- March 25th, in the course of a three-hour interview. Tay of leaving the cabinet, It was to yield to England the territory north of the hIe most certain means of Columbia River, excepting, perhaps, an approach to Puget Sound, if England would promote, or ac- )rical proofs of which are quiesce in our acquisition of California from San i Quincy Adams, has not Francisco harbor northward, and the annexation of )tice until recently,* and Texas to the United States. " The situation of Eng- ess in the well-known leaning of hand that the President and his secretary did contemplate a treaty ial advantages to be got by treaty with England which would involve a surrender of territory on the imate of the value of the Oregon North Pacific Coast such as no administration hitherto had been > now know that for this and for willing for a moment to consider. The compensation, however, for ensions of the time in regard to the territory surrendered was not, as was then surmised, to be indless. The evidence is now at found wholly, if at all, on the Atlantic Coast."-J. R. Wilson. _1r_! M

AN AMERICAN S9 358 THE GROWTH OF Two plans were devise land in Mexico seemed to make it entirely possible to proceed to London. to swing the proposition into place; she was much which he should be interested in Texas, even to the extent of suspicion failed, was a special m that she intended planting there a colony; so that ett, then minister at the ambition to acquire that disputed land might leaving the way clear meet with objection and needed England's good of- But the first failed to fices. Still further English capitalists had made a was not relished by I loan of fifty million dollars on the security of New cept. Fearing to bri Mexico and California, indicating a possible aliena- cussion, and finding b tion of that territory to England in default of pay- orator resigned his I ment; and this fact also would make it probable that few weeks later that he Mexico would accept the advice and good offices of of the treaty that he i England in transferring California above, and in- difficulties he encour cluding San Francisco Bay to the United States. under our form of go, While extensive gains would be made in the South of the domain to whi and Southwest, Oregon was to be sacrificed. The that they had a right line of the Columbia meant the indefinite continu- gon as near the point ance of the Hudson's Bay Company in Oregon, the ever came. suppression of American enterprise, and the exclu- In the summer of sion of American commerce. The Americans would land of the Oregon have been, at least, placed to a heavy disadvantage. Review, I As concluded by Dr. Wilson, it is doubtful whether r6sume of the situati at any time after the immigration of 1843 reached " we cannot but in Oregon the Senate could have been brought to sume a new face bef ratify the proposed settlement by Webster; though plain the road to th, he evidently relied upon the immense advantages Ohio." That very in California and Texas to overcome the popu- slowly winding past lar clamor from the West over the infraction of of the next year, J. ( Oregon. British envoy, Pal Fortunately his scheme never reached maturity. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 359 lake it entirely possible Two plans were devised in order to enable Webster to place; she was much to proceed to London. One was a special mission, to the extent of suspicion which he should be appointed; the other, if that Lhere a colony; so that failed, was a special mission to China, to which Ever- it disputed land might ett, then minister at London, should be appointed, ded England's good of- leaving the way clear for Webster to go to London. capitalists had made a But the first failed to pass the committee; the second on the security of New was not relished by Everett, and he declined to ac- ating a possible aliena- cept. Fearing to bring the matter to a public dis- land in default of pay- cussion, and finding his endeavors blocked, the great d make it probable that orator resigned his portfolio March 8th. It was a 'ice and good offices of few weeks later that he disclosed to Adams the nature ifornia above, and in- of the treaty that he contemplated negotiating. The to the United States. difficulties he encountered illustrate the difficulties be made in the South under our form of government of alienating any part to be sacrificed. The of the domain to which the people have been taught the indefinite continu- that they had a right; but this passage brought Ore- mpany in Oregon, the gon as near the point of peril as probably any section 3rprise, and the exclu- ever came. The Americans would In the summer of 1843 public discussion in Eng- a heavy disadvantage. land of the Oregon question began to rise. The it is doubtful whether Edinburgh Review, publishing the now celebrated ation of 1843 reached r6sume of the situation, stating among other things, We been brought to " we cannot but imagine that the world must as- t by Webster; though sume a new face before the American wagons make immense advantages plain the road to the Columbia, as they have to the overcome the popu- Ohio." That very summer the Americans were ver the infraction of slowly winding past Fort Hall, and on September 3d of the next year, J. C. Calhoun was able to say to the rer reached maturity. British envoy, Pakenham, " loaded wagons now - it i

360 THE GROWTH OF

travel with facility from Missouri to the navigable waters of the Columbia." Agitation through one or the other of the houses of Congress was by no means discontinued. On Jan- uary of 1842, Linn introduced a resolution that the President give notice to put an end to the treaty of joint occupation of the territory now held bythe Hud- son's Bay Company " to the ruin of the American Indian and fur trader, and conflicting with our inland commerce " with provinces of Mexico. He also pre- sented a petition from citizens of Michigan praying a military occupation of Oregon and its formation into a territorial government. That the administration was not indifferent to the interests of the Oregon emigrants was shown by the dispatch of Lieutenant Fremont, who left St. Louis about June 1st of 1842, with a party of twenty men, to explore the passes of the Rocky Mountains. He examined the South Pass, returned, and came to Oregon the next year, and went to California by the route east of the Cascade Moun- tains and made a thorough and valuable report. Al- though trappers and missionaries and emigrants had GENERAL traveled the South Pass he perhaps deserves the name of Path Finder, as the first to make a topo- graphical survey of the route to Oregon. In the session of 1843 Wentworth, of Illinois, de- sired, December 20th, to offer a resolution asking for all correspondence concerning Oregon, but objection was made. Senator Atchison, of Missouri, intro- duced a bill for inducing settlement in Oregon sub- THE GROWTH OF issouri to the navigable the other of the houses s discontinued. On Jan- *ed a resolution that the an end to the treaty of ory now held bythe Hud- ie ruin of the American inflicting with our inland of Mexico. He also pre- as of Michigan praying a an and its formation into That the administration interests of the Oregon e dispatch of Lieutenant about June 1st of 1842, ,to explore the passes of examined the South Pass, on the next year, and went ist of the Cascade Moun- N.O,- and valuable report. Al- GEEA ON .FMN aaries and emigrants had ie perhaps deserves the he first to make a topo- Leto Oregon. entworth, of Illinois, de- er a resolution asking for ng Oregon, but objection son, of Missouri, intro- ettlement in Oregon sub-

AN AMERICAN STATE 361

stantially the same as Linn's-the latter, one of Ore- gon's ablest champions, having died of heart disease October preceding. Atchison's bill provided a line of blockhouses from a point on the Missouri to the best pass into the Oregon; and a land bill, giving six hundred and forty acres to each white male inhabi- tant over eighteen, and to a married man, in addition, one hundred and sixty acres on account of his wife, and one hundred and sixty acres for each child either taken thither or born in the territory, conditional upon five years' occupation. He also introduced a bill for a territorial government. On January 8, 1844, Semple, of Illinois, introduced a resolution au- thorizing the President to give notice abrogating the treaty. On January 4th, in the House, Robert Dale Owen, of Indiana, introduced a bill to the same pur- port. On January 26th, in response to requests from Congress, President Tyler stated that negotiations would probably be opened soon, and in view of this he deemed it inexpedient to make public the corre- spondence relative to Oregon. He was evidently anxious to close the boundary question before end- ing his term of office, but owing to Webster's scheme, was not in position to make any other offer than of the Columbia River. This renewed agitation in Congress was undoubt- edly due to much public discussion and many public meetings, urging the speedy termination of the treaty and early occupation of Oregon. A popular conven-

0 362 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST tion had been held in July, of the previous summer with its object, and that (1843). The circular calling the convention was is- of Oregon should be tal sued May 23d; it was sent to all parts of the Union. tude named, Fifty-foui The object of the convention to be held at Cincinnati, eration, and led the imi O., was stated to be, " To urge upon Congress the that if they had not a g immediate occupation of the Oregon Territory by region, they would and < the arms and laws of the Republic, and to adopt such Robert Dale Owen, it measures as may seem most conclusive and effective the new sentiment of th to its immediate and effective occupation, whether what slightingly upon the government acts, or not, in the matter." The tilities were begun in tl latter clause was a strong hint that the people of the would be settled by th( ANWest might not be retarded in their ambition to reach help of the government the Pacific by the slow processes of negotiation, and notice that she could nc gave notice that occupation of Oregon would soon be- war, then war must cc come a question of party politics. The circular also opposed the policy of ( showed impatience of diplomatic considerations, and tration-thus coupling proposed to base whatever action was taken simply Calhoun and others sei upon the Monroe Doctrine, that this continent was no discussion as hurtful, longer open to colonization by European powers. be people enough in ( Metaphysical subtleties and supposititious rights, selves. On February based upon Old World precedents, were not to be con- sented a resolution, sidered; the Mississippi Valley wanted Oregon. The branches of the Legis convention was attended by over ninety delegates, which showed that duri representing six States of the Mississippi Valley, and was rising, and that the adopted, after a three-days' session, resolutions as- would soon be complel serting that the right of the United States was good The resolution was: to the Russian possessions, in latitude Fifty-four country known as the r Forty. Lewis Cass, the distinguished pioneer states- belongs to our Nation man of Ohio and of Michigan, stated in a letter the insatiate avarice ai to the convention that he was heartily in sympathy ish Government seems THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 363

f the previous summer with its object, and that, come what might, possession the convention was is- of Oregon should be taken to the full limit. The lati- ) all parts of the Union. tude named, Fifty-four Forty, had a pleasing allit- to be held at Cincinnati, eration, and led the impulsive Western people to feel Lrge upon Congress the that if they had not a good right to all that immense e Oregon Territory by region, they would and could make it good. ublic, and to adopt such Robert Dale Owen, in arguing his motion, reflected conclusive and effective the new sentiment of the West, and commented some- ve occupation, whether what slightingly upon the administration. If hos- I in the matter." The tilities were begun in the valley of the Columbia they It that the people of the would be settled by the Western people without the Ltheir ambition to reach help of the government; and that if to give England sses of negotiation, and notice that she could no longer occupy Oregon meant Oregon would soon be- war, then war must come. Wentworth, of Illinois, [tics. The circular also opposed the policy of Great Britain and the adminis- %ticconsiderations, and tration-thus coupling the two as one in this matter. ction was taken simply Calhoun and others seem to have considered radical at this continent was no discussion as hurtful, and thought there would soon by European powers. be people enough in Oregon to take care of them- supposititious rights, selves. On February 5th, Senator Hannegan pre- 3nts, were not to be con- sented a resolution, passed unanimously by both by wanted Oregon. The branches of the Legislature of his State, Indiana, over ninety delegates, which showed that during 1843 and '44 the war spirit Mississippi Valley, and was rising, and that the alliteration Fifty-four Forty session, resolutions as- would soon be completed by the phrase " or fight." Jnited States was good The resolution was: " Whereas, The district of in latitude Fifty-four country known as the Territory of Oregon rightfully guished pioneer states- belongs to our National Government; and whereas ,an, stated in a letter the insatiate avarice and grasping spirit of the Brit- heartily in sympathy ish Government seems already disposed to its subju- 364 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. gation and conversion; and, whereas, the slightest question, and the Wes infringement of national right is a prelude to more honor." (Brown's H high-handed and audacious aggression; therefore The prospect of war " Be it Resolved, That our senators in Congress be deterred pressing the instructed, and representatives requested, to use wished war. It was f their proper instrumentalities for the immediate oc- never been quite propei cupation, organization, and defense of Oregon Terri- be a good opportunity t tory, ' peaceably if we can, forcibly if we must.' " forever from the soil A memorial from sixty or seventy Oregon emigrants Presidential election dr complaining that they were driven from the Terri- was alive to this state tory by the Hudson's Bay Company was presented John C. Calhoun, the g by Atchison. acquisition of Oregon On February 9th debate took place over purchase least not to the line o of one thousand five hundred copies of Greenhow 's annexation of Texas w~ " Oregon. " It was said by Buchanan that he would to accomplish the rest never agree to relinquish one foot of Oregon, even plied himself in the fie] up to the old Spanish claim; and by Benton: " We signal failure. Not by settled the Territory; the settlement of it was the style; but by a coup d4 basis of our claim. He could show that our settle- fist. He could carry t ment was prior to that of the British. The British Texas, and the solid never saw or heard of Oregon till we discovered it, The demand for Texas and put the badge of our sovereignty upon it. Then but the South was rea( Great Britain jumped down upon, and now she was f or Oregon might no going to fight out her claim. He would assure the England. This then- gentlemen that we were not going to have another the campaign cry of tl Northeastern boundary question of this. It was not K. Polk swept the cl another Massachusetts and Maine question. There champion of the Whig was to be no trembling and yielding in this case, as dary question in thi there was in the former one. No trembling hearts Southwest the Whigs were to be found in the West. This was a Western policy of settlement, i

I THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 365 whereas, the slightest question, and the West had a regard it is a prelude to more for national honor." (Brown's History.) Aggression; therefore The prospect of war over the dispute senators in Congress be by no means deterred pressing the, question. ves requested, to use The West rather wished war. It was felt that the " late war 3 for the immediate oc- " had never been quite properly finished ,fense of Oregon Terri- up, and this might be a good opportunity to put forcibly if we must.'" the last European power forever from the soil of enty Oregon emigrants . As the Presidential election drew Iriven from the Terri- near, the Democratic party was alive to this state )mpany was presented of feeling in the West. By John C. Calhoun, the great leader of the Democracy, acquisition of Oregon was not )k place over purchase ardently desired; at least not to the line copies of Greenhow's of Fifty-four Forty. But the annexation of Texas uchanan that he would was. He determined, therefore, to accomplish the result, foot of Oregon, even to which Webster had ap- plied himself in the field md by Benton: " We of diplomacy, but with such signal failure. Not by a coup tlement of it was the d '6tat, or the European style; but by a coup de main-with show that our settle- the Anglo-Saxon fist. He could carry British. The British the solid South by demand for Texas, and the solid West by demand till we discovered it, for Oregon. The demand for Texas would eignty upon it. Then mean war with Mexico, but the South was ready )on, and now she was for such war. The demand for Oregon might not necessarily He would assure the mean war with England. This oing to have another then-Texas and Oregon-became the campaign cry n of this. It was not of the election of 1844; and James K. Polk swept line question. There the country against the last great champion of the Whigs-Henry ,lding in this case, as Clay. On the boun- dary question in the No trembling hearts Northeast, Northwest, and Southwest the Whigs This was a Western had little to show. Webster's policy of settlement, if he dared to make it known, T-

366 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST} was already so discredited by events that it would necessity to British sul have simply added confusion to the cause of the Britain to abandon the Whigs. frontier, and to surrend During the campaign, while Tyler was still Presi- that river, the prejudice dent, negotiations were renewed, Pakenham arriving arrangement would, be from England, and opening the boundary question the advantage accruing with Upshur, who had succeeded Webster. The ne- the possession of a fee gotiation was, however, delayed on account of the It must be obvious to accidental death of Urpshur at a test of ordnance. In of the subject that, in a( July it was taken up with J. C. Calhoun, who suc- lumbia, Great Britain is ceeded to Upshur. Pakenham had substantially ambition, with referenc nothing to offer but the line of the Columbia, with, considerations of utility however, a detached territory embracing the Olym- cannot be lost sight of, a pic Mountains, and besides this any port that the to be made in an arrang Americans might wish in the British division. These on considerations of m concessions were justly considered as too trivial for tage. " The region to which notice by Calhoun, and the line of the Columbia in- admissible. He argued boldly for the right to the ludes disparagingly as entire territory up to the Russian line. Pakenham in fact more than sixty made an able rejoinder, arguing chiefly that America more than three-fourth could not be a beneficiary of the Spanish discoveries, or over forty million a and other mineral land since by the treaty of 1 d790 Spain had yielded to Eng- land the right of colonization on the Northwest agricultural country; Coast; and that if the United States claimed any- unhesitatingly pronoui thing under the discovery of Heceta at the Columbia, his whole cruise arour she must admit the principle of progressive discov- much reason to believe ery; Gray carrying forward the reconnoissance be- retained by England it gun by Heceta; but on that principle Vancouver suc- to the Hudson's Bay ceeded to, and completed Gray's work. He argued stamp of an inferior fo stoutly for the line of the Columbia as a business this among the finest I 'HE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 367

events that it would necessity to British subjects, saying, " were Great to the cause of the Britain to abandon the line of the Columbia as a frontier, and to surrender her right to navigation of Pyler was still Presi- that river, the prejudice occasioned to her by such an , Pakenham arriving arrangement would, beyond all proportion, exceed e boundary question the advantage accruing to the United States from d Webster. The ne- the possession of a few square miles of territory. I on account of the It must be obvious to every impartial investigator test of ordnance. In of the subject that, in adhering to the line of the Co- Calhoun, who suc- lumbia, Great Britain is not influenced by motives of i had substantially ambition, with reference to extent of territory, but the Columbia, with, considerations of utility, not to say necessity, which nbracing the Olym- cannot be lost sight of, and for which allowance ought 3 any port that the to be made in an arrangement professing to be based ;ish division. These on considerations of mutual convenience and advan- A as too trivial for tage. " of the Columbia in- The region to which Richard Pakenham thus al- or the right to the ludes disparagingly as a few square miles, embraces m line. Pakenham in fact more than sixty thousand square miles, being chiefly that America more than three-fourths of the State of Washington, ;panish discoveries, or over forty million acres of the finest timber, coal iad yielded to Eng- and other mineral lands, and great tracts of the best on the Northwest agricultural country; with the harbors that Wilkes itates claimed any- unhesitatingly pronounced the finest he had seen in ta at the Columbia, his whole cruise around the world. If, as there is )rogressive discov- much reason to believe, this unrivaled area had been reconnoissance be- retained by England it would have been given in fee ple Vancouver suc- to the Hudson's Bay Company; thus setting the work. He argued stamp of an inferior form of social development upon ibia as a business this among the finest portions of the earth. - I - -

368 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA That England was contemplating somewhat more ard, and erect a fortress active measures to secure the Columbia than mere the entrance of the river diplomacy is indicated by an entry in the journal of of the Oregon question, Father De Smet, of August 17, 1845, at which time he talk attains his end and was journeying on the upper branch of the Columbia. part of the country; whe He mentions meeting the British officers dispatched a volley of words, inn from England and conducted to Vancouver by Mr. years have been passed Ogden, of the Hudson's Bay Company. De Smet not sultations without one only mentions the meeting, but the mission of the of- cure his real or pretend ficers. He says: " August 9th. I had here a very suppose that the mission agreeable and unexpected interview. As we ap- with the enthusiasm of t proached the forests several horsemen issued forth soon that between the Ui in tattered garments. . . . A small river sepa- rights of the people to wi rated us, and with a smile he [the leader on the other the Indians, would pro side] said, ' Wait until I reach the opposite shore and noticeable, however, thk you will recognize me '-who proved to be ' the the impulse of an intern worthy and upright Mr. Ogden. .. . I had the a Hudson's Bay Compa honor and good fortune of making a voyage with the territory in dispute him in his own barge from Colville to Vancouver in as " a few square miles 1-842. the country. "I " Mr. Ogden left England in the month of April last, accompanied by two distinguished officers. It was a source of great pleasure to receive recent news from Europe. The Oregon question seemed to me somewhat alarming. It was neither curiosity nor pleasure that induced these officers to cross so many desolate regions and hasten their course toward the mouth of the Columbia. They were invested with orders from their government to take possession of ' Cape Disappointment,' to hoist the British stand- [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 369 iplating somewhat more ard, and erect a fortress for the purpose of securing he Columbia than mere the entrance of the river in case of war. In the case *entry in the journal of of the Oregon question, ' John Bull ' without much 7, 1845, at which time he talk attains his end and secures the most important branch of the Columbia. part of the country; whereas' Uncle Sam ' displodes *itish officers dispatched a volley of words, inveighs and storms! Many d to Vancouver by Mr. years have been passed in debate and useless con- Company. De Smet not sultations without one single practical effort to se- at the mission of the of- cure his real or pretended rights. " In this we may 9th. I had here a very suppose that the missionary was rather carried away uterview. As we ap- with the enthusiasm of the military men; as he adds horsemen issued forth soon that between the United States and England the . A small river sepa- rights of the people to whom the land really belonged, [the leader on the other the Indians, would probably be overlooked. It is i the opposite shore and noticeable, however, that De Smet, speaking under ho proved to be ' the the impulse of an interview with British officers and len. . . . I had the a Hudson's Bay Company factor, does not allude to making a voyage with the territory in dispute in the terms of R. Pakenham olville to Vancouver in as " a few square miles "; but as " the best part of the country. " in the month of April ;tinguished officers. It to receive recent news question seemed to me neither curiosity nor ircers to cross so many heir course toward the ey were invested with Lto take possession of oist the British stand- [Vol. 3] B=' - "', I., I -

CHAI

THE: ACTS OF THE . CHAPTER MII

THE ACTS OF THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT FM=' -- t'---f -1 -

HILE th W/ proach ginninj sides was al measures to retain her I gon she desired-for in Lieutenants Park and F este " was sent to the C the force of five hundre( colony was really to be Oregon-the Provisiona performing the functioT steps to conciliate Britit dents. Its measures wei be a model for public ac criticism that the peoplE main object of popula an ambitious class with densed abstract of the little Oregon commnm serted here; showing be pioneers, and the comy taking. July 5, 1843, as ment of the committee formul cepted; thus reenacting 1 stitution founded upoi penses of government w Two sections were pres

r HILE the menaces of a rapidly ap- proaching war period were thus be- wtginning to be heard upon both sides of the ocean, and England was already taking precautionary measures to retain her hold upon that part of Ore- gon she desired-for in addition to the dispatch of Lieutenants Park and Peel, the man-of-war " Mod- este " was sent to the Columbia; and, as Ross says, the force of five hundred men sent to the Red River colony was really to be in readiness for trouble in Oregon-the Provisional Government was patiently performing the function of government and taking steps to conciliate British as well as American resi- dents. Its measures were, on the whole, so wise as to be a model for public acts, and to forever silence the criticism that the people cannot legislate, or that the main object of popular government is to supply an ambitious class with fat offices. A greatly con- densed abstract of the leading acts and laws of the little Oregon community must therefore be in- serted here; showing both the spirit of the Oregon pioneers, and the complete success of their under- taking. July 5, 1843, as mentioned heretofore, the report of the committee formulating a body of laws, was ac- cepted; thus reenacting the principle of a written con- stitution founded upon the Magna Charta. Ex- penses of government were to be met by subscription. Two sections were presented in the report adopted; CHAPTER MII

THE ACTS OF THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT 374 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST the first containing three and the second nineteen arti- to the bushel measure; cles. By the first section the people of Oregon Ter- rency. The land law a ritory agreed to adopt laws and regulations until more than one square r the United States extended jurisdiction over them; at the same time; nor I the territory to be divided into not less than three sites or water powers, I nor more than five districts. By the first article no mission of a religious person, demeaning himself in an orderly manner, more than six miles sq should be molested in his religious worship. By the law was adopted. second, hlabeats corpus, trial by jury, proportionate The land laws were a representation, and the other civil rights enjoyed by tentions of the Linn bi Americans were guaranteed. By the third, schools to claims made by Dr and the means of education should be encouraged; miles along the river at good faith should be observed with the Indians; their Tualatin Plains and o lands or property not taken without consent; but while he was still a res " laws founded in humanity " be made, preventing an employee and facto injustice to them. By the fourth, neither slavery nor pany. McLoughlin's involuntary servitude should exist. Alvin F. Waller, of the By section second, elections, franchise extending ployed John Ricord a: to every free male descendant of a white man, twenty- an acrimonious contro one years old; an executive of three, consisting of a in Brown's history: " committee of three; a judiciary of supreme judge Loughlin bought out and two justices of the peace; probate court, and name of W. C. Remick, justices of the peace; a recorder, treasurer, and a and had a cooper shop legislative body of nine persons, elected to their of- stands. In 1840 Dr. IN fice, were provided. For common practice the laws bers to build a mill, an of Iowa were designated; marriage was permitted Waller, of the Method to males over sixteen, and females over fourteen, for [as he understood with consent of the parents of those under legal age. Dr. McLoughlin emplo; A matter of some consequence was fixing the stand- a house, and as soon a: ard bushel of wheat at sixty pounds, without regard moved his family into 374 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST the first containing three and the second nineteen arti- to the bushel measure; cles. By the first section the people of Oregon Ter- rency. The land law a ritory agreed to adopt laws and regulations until more than one square r the United States extended jurisdiction over them; at the same time; nor I the territory to be divided into not less than three sites or water powers, I nor more than five districts. By the first article no mission of a religious person, demeaning himself in an orderly manner, more than six miles sq should be molested in his religious worship. By the law was adopted. second, hlabeats corpus, trial by jury, proportionate The land laws were a representation, and the other civil rights enjoyed by tentions of the Linn bi Americans were guaranteed. By the third, schools to claims made by Dr and the means of education should be encouraged; miles along the river at good faith should be observed with the Indians; their Tualatin Plains and o lands or property not taken without consent; but while he was still a res " laws founded in humanity " be made, preventing an employee and facto injustice to them. By the fourth, neither slavery nor pany. McLoughlin's involuntary servitude should exist. Alvin F. Waller, of the By section second, elections, franchise extending ployed John Ricord a: to every free male descendant of a white man, twenty- an acrimonious contro one years old; an executive of three, consisting of a in Brown's history: " committee of three; a judiciary of supreme judge Loughlin bought out and two justices of the peace; probate court, and name of W. C. Remick, justices of the peace; a recorder, treasurer, and a and had a cooper shop legislative body of nine persons, elected to their of- stands. In 1840 Dr. IN fice, were provided. For common practice the laws bers to build a mill, an of Iowa were designated; marriage was permitted Waller, of the Method to males over sixteen, and females over fourteen, for [as he understood with consent of the parents of those under legal age. Dr. McLoughlin emplo; A matter of some consequence was fixing the stand- a house, and as soon a: ard bushel of wheat at sixty pounds, without regard moved his family into THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 375 he second nineteen arti- to the bushel measure; as wheat was recognized cur- people of Oregon Ter- rency. The land law allowed no individual to claim and regulations until more than one square mile, nor more than one claim arisdiction over them; at the same time; nor to hold such claim upon town- Lto not less than three sites or water powers, but not to affect claims of any By the first article no mission of a religious character, of an extent not a an orderly manner, more than six miles square, and already taken when ,ious worship. By the law was adopted. *y jury, proportionate The land laws were adopted upon the supposed in- 3ivil rights enjoyed by tentions of the Linn bill, and with special reference By the third, schools to claims made by Dr. McLoughlin, who held two ;hould be encouraged; miles along the river at Oregon City; also a tract on ffith the Indians; their Tualatin Plains and on the Clackamas; and these without consent; but while he was still a resident of Fort Vancouver and ' be made, preventing an employee and factor of the Hudson's Bay Com- th, neither slavery nor pany. McLoughlin's claim was contested by Rev. exist. Alvin F. Waller, of the Methodist Mission; who em- s, franchise extending ployed John Ricord as attorney. Thus was begun of a white man, twenty- an acrimonious controversy, summarized as follows three, consisting of a in Brown's history: " It seems that in 1839 Dr. Mc- 3ry of supreme judge Loughlin bought out an American citizen by the a; probate court, and name of W. C. Remick, who located it as a land claim rder, treasurer, and a and had a cooper shop where the Imperial mill now as, elected to their of- stands. In 1840 Dr. McLoughlin got out some tim- mon practice the laws bers to build a mill, and loaned the timbers to A. F. Lrriage was permitted Wailer, of the Methodist Mission, to build a house emales over fourteen, for [as he understood it] church purposes. In 1843 those under legal age. Dr. McLoughlin employed Wm. H. Gray to build him was fixing the stand- a house, and as soon as it was finished (1844) he re- ounds, without regard moved his family into it and remained there perma- 376 THE GROWTH OF

nently. "+ It is asserted by Ricord that Waller made an offer, after having lived two and a half years as settler, to compromise with McLoughlin, so as to ex- - clude Abernethy Island, on which the American Mill- ing Company had built, and his two lots, and other unsold lots not to exceed five acres; but the offer was declined by McLoughlin. As Brown continues: " The animosity thus created against McLoughlin by the action of Ricord and others was kept up until the question was brought into Congress by Delegate Thurston, and consummated by the celebrated amendment to the eleventh section of the land law, which robbed the good doctor of his land and caused him infinite trouble until this great wrong was final- ly rectified by the Oregon Legislature only a short time before his death, through the exertion of Hon. L. F. Grover." As to Waller, Brown says: " He was a good, kind- hearted man. He intended to do right, but was a zealot, strongly prejudiced against the Catholic Church. .. . His principal life-work was build-

ing up educational institutions, and its result can be HOME OF DR. JOB seen in the success of the Willamette Institute, to BU which he contributed more than any other man. He was not fully appreciated until after his death." The officers of the Provisional Government for 1843 were: Executive Committee, David Hill, Jo- *N. J. Wyeth in his journal for December 29, 1832, says, "At the Falls the H. B. Co. are erecting a saw mill to which they contemplate adding a grist mill," Wyeth's map of the lower Willamette valley made at the same time locates " H. B. Co Mill " at the " Falls."

t - THE GROWTH OF ticord that Waller made two and a half years as IcLoughlin, so as to ex- hich the American Mill- his two lots, and other 7e acres; but the offer As Brown continues: ed against McLoughlin ethers was kept up until o Congress by Delegate Bd by the celebrated section of the land law, of his land and caused great wrong was final- ,egislature only a short rh the exertion of Hon.

"He was a good, kind- to do right, but was a against the Catholic )al life-work was build- is, and its result can be ROME 01 DR. JOHN IULOULIN, OREGON CITY, AVillamette Institute, to BUILT ABOUT 1847 tan any other man. He til after his death." sional Government for rnittee, David Hill, Jo- ,ember 29, 1832, says, "At the mill to which they contemplate f the lower Willamette valley Co Mill " at the " Falls."

AN AMERICAN STATE 377

seph Gale, Alanson Beers; Supreme Judge, A. E. Wilson; Recorder, Geo. W. Le Breton; Sheriff, Jos. L. Meek; Treasurer, W. H. Willson. The popula- tion of the Territory was estimated as about twelve hundred British subjects, and one thousand one hun- dred and forty-two Americans. In the autumn of the year occurred the affray at Oregon City in which Le Breton was killed by a Molalla Indian named Cockstock. Cockstock had had trouble in regard to a horse, and became exasperated, and riding into the town seemed to be attempting a disturbance. With five others he was armed and painted. Le Breton, attempting his arrest, was stabbed; whereupon Cockstock was killed by a blow of a rifle barrel in the hands of Winslow Armstrong, a mulatto. A white man named Rogers was also wounded by an Indian arrow, from the effects of which he died. Le Breton, badly wounded, was re- moved to Fort Vancouver, where he succumbed de- spite most careful medical attention. In consequence of this disturbance a meeting was held March 9th, at the house of La Chapelle, at Champoeg. On motion of W. H. Gray it was " deemed expedient to organize a volunteer company of mounted riflemen to co-op- erate with other companies, to bring to justice all the Indians engaged in the affair of the 4th of March, and to protect our lives and property against any depredations that may be attempted." Pursuant to adjournment a meeting was held the 23d at the Willamette Institute, and a company of ------I - - --2-I - -, I W--- r

378 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN k

twenty-five was organized, with T. D. Keizer as cap- Executive Committe tain; who, soon resigning, was succeeded by Charles fundamental right tc Bennett, who had served in the United States Army, upon. " The Unite( and was an efficient officer. The company was called ments to their citizen " The Oregon Rangers "; and consisted of Thos. D. settlement of this C( Keizer, Isaac Hutchins, John Anderson, Nathan Sit- we are improving th ton, Joseph Holman, John Elmons, John B. Keizer, without their protect James Martin, K. J. Carson, J. L. Morrison, Webley every community hM Hauxhurst, Peter Brainerd, J. M. Garrison, Jas. R. mutual benefit and 1 Patterson, Chas. E. Pickett, William Martin, Lind- ... .At the time sey Applegate, Chas. P. Malt, Rich. H. Eakin, Joel pected that the Unit( Turnham, Wm. Delaney, John Ford, Nimrod Ford, of the country beft David Waldo, Wm. Henry Gray. The rangers were rolled around, and t to furnish their own equipment, and in case of actual aid from that quart( service were to receive two dollars a day, and for on our own resource: each day's drill one dollar, but to forfeit twice his present state of affa per diem for non-attendance. It was to be chartered we would recomme by the " colonial II government; and might be called adoption of some in out by any of the commissioned officers or by any one ganization. " Some of the Executive Committee. tive in one person; The officers of the Provisional Government elect- preme and probate ed May 14, 1844, were as follows: Executive Com- the military, amend I mittee, Osborn Russell, Peter G. Stewart, W. J. four, which especial Bailey; Recorder, John E. Long; Treasurer, Philip McLoughlin, and to Foster; Judge, Ira L. Babcock; Sheriff, Joseph L. so as to be applical Meek; Legislative Committee: Tualatin, Peter H. measures were pas, Burnett, David Hill, M. M. McCarver, M. Gilmore; force many years, a Clackamas, A. Lawrence Lovejoy; Champoeg, Daniel tion of the country, Waldo, T. D. Keizer, Robert Newell. This was a prohibit A frank and able message was submitted by the ardent spirits, in coi E GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 379

. D. Keizer as cap- Executive Committee. Among other matters the cceeded by Charles fundamental right to government was thus touched nited States Army, upon. " The United States have held out induce- ompany was called ments to their citizens, and indirectly encouraged the nsisted of Thos. D. settlement of this country by them. Consequently terson, Nathan Sit- we are improving this country by their consent, but LS, John B. Keizer, without their protection; and it is self-evident that Morrison, Webley every community has the right to make laws for . Garrison, Jas. R. mutual benefit and protection, where no law exists. liam Martin, Lind- . At the time of our organization it was ex- ch. H. Eakin, Joel pected that the United States would take possession Drd, Nimrod Ford, of the country before this time, but a year has The rangers were rolled around, and there appears little prospect of ad in case of actual aid from that quarter, consequently we are yet left irs a day, and for on our own resources for protection. In view of the :o forfeit twice his present state of affairs, gentlemen of the assembly, wvas to be chartered we would recommend to your consideration the and might be called adoption of some measures for a more thorough or- Ricers or by any one ganization. I Some of these were to vest the Execu- tive in one person; to divide the judiciary into su- Government elect- preme and probate courts, locate roads, reorganize ,: Executive Com- the military, amend the land laws, leaving out article four, which especially worked a hardship upon Dr. r. Stewart, W. J. Treasurer, Philip McLoughlin, and to revise the laws of Iowa adopted Sheriff, Joseph L. so as to be applicable to Oregon. Two important Fualatin, Peter H. measures were passed, one of which remained in irver, M. Gilmore; force many years, and was a necessity in the situa- Champoeg, Daniel tion of the country, with a large savage population. all. This was a prohibition law, forbidding the sale of ; submitted by the ardent spirits, in continuation of the practice of Dr. .- _ M

380 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN McLoughlin. The other was forbidding residence to garding the boundar any negro in Oregon. This was a formidable law, was unable to repor and was passed only after much debate and upon a tinuance of the dispi divided vote. The yeas were Burnett, Gilmore, 42 degrees and 54 d Waldo, Keizer, Newell, and McCarver (speaker); the modus vivendi by jc nays, Lovejoy and Hill. Slavery or involuntary view of this it was e, servitude should not exist; any negro slave brought vision be made for i into the country should in the course of three years tion for Oregon, whi become free; any free negro or mulatto coming to guide to her officerE the country should leave within two years; if he (or laws. It should bE she) failed to leave the country after notice, he should as to suit the local i be whipped on the bare back with not less than twenty mote the general i] nor more than thirty-nine stripes; and flogged like- interfering with the wise every six months until he did leave. In the next United States or Gr session of the year, the flogging sections were re- tection of life and pi pealed, a bond for good behavior being substituted. recommendation we To the credit of Oregon this law was never enforced. Bay officials, who st There was not a little discussion at this period ernment. It was es whether the Provisional Government could be con- lin should be induc sidered as a valid authority; the question being rangement, and the raised by the new arrivals, and by none more than smooth the way. Peter H. Burnett. He concluded, however, that it A number of prac was, and from his study of the American practice in which was for a jai formation of governments he derived the principles what drily, " Alth( that were also employed in erecting the State govern- very little as yet fo] ment of California, of which he became first governor. haps another year* Hence the Oregon government was the progenitor of pied, which is to be I the California government. assured it is better Adjournment was taken until December 16th, in ing without a tenar order to learn more particularly the situation re- ing. " E GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 381 idding residence to garding the boundary. But the Executive Committee a formidable law, was unable to report anything further than the con- debate and upon a tinuance of the dispute as to all the territory between Burnett, Gilmore, 42 degrees and 54 degrees, 40 minutes; and that the rver (speaker); the modus vivendi by joint occupancy still obtained. In ry or involuntary view of this it was earnestly recommended that " Pro- egro slave brought vision be made for framing and adopting a constitu- arse of three years tion for Oregon, which may serve as a more thorough mulatto coming to guide to her officers, and a more firm basis for her vo years; if he (or laws. It should be constructed in such a manner er notice, he should as to suit the local situation of the country and pro- lot less than twenty mote the general interests of the citizens, without ; and flogged like- interfering with the real or pretended rights of the leave. In the next United States or Great Britain; except when the pro- sections were re- tection of life and property actually require it. " This being substituted. recommendation was in the interest of the Hudson's vas never enforced. Bay officials, who still remained outside the local gov- ion at this period ernment. It was especially desirable that McLough- nent could be con- lin should be induced to join in the provisional ar- ;he question being rangement, and the Americans therefore sought to y none more than smooth the way. l, however, that it A number of practical needs were mentioned, one of anerican practice in which was for a jail, the committee remarking some- ived the principles what drily, " Although the community has suffered g the State govern- very little as yet for want of such a building, and per- ame first governor. haps another year might pass without it being occu- s the progenitor of pied, which is to be hoped might be the case; yetwe are assured it is better policy to have the building stand- December 16th, in ing without a tenant than a tenant without the build- r the situation re- ing. "

A 382 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S' A spirit of great liberality pervades this document, $500 was for care of and a lofty ideal, with but a slight touch of American son). The highest floridity, is pointed in the concluding paragraph: $111.96; the Judge re " And we sincerely hope that Oregon, by the special There was a balance aid of Divine Providence, may set an unprecedented appropriations. example to the world, of industry, morality and The moderate and s, virtue. And although we may now be unknown as a Executive Committee State or power, yet we have the advantages, by unit- Governor. The need ed efforts of our increasing population, in a diligent longer existed, as the attention to agriculture, arts and literature, of at- hearty accord with I taining at no greatly distant day, to as conspicuous something in the nat an elevation as any State or power on the American was held at Champoe continent. . .. As descendants of the United born Russell, George States and Great Britain, we should honor and re- appeared as aspirant, spect the countries which gave us birth; and as citi- ceived the nominatioi zens of Oregon we should by a uniform course of Abernethy 's friends, proceeding, and a strict observance of the rules of majority of 98 appea justice, equity and republican principles, without The Canadian residei party distinction, use our best endeavors to cultivate vantage of participate the kind feelings not only of our native countries, made no restrictions i but of all the powers or States with whom we have them, the vote showe( intercourse. I the acceptance of the The only strength of which the young republic felt the American candid, conscious was that of reasonable and just action, and matinger, of the Huds this message clearly shows that the intention was to in the field, and ran follow a course so manifestly fair and wise that not solid vote of the Fren one in the Territory could object to formal affilia- out of 448 cast for t tion so long as the question of national sovereignty which the Americans remained open. The Treasurer reported appropria- J. E. Long was elect( tions to the amount of $967.96, for the year; of which not yet twenty-five, b HE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 383 vades this document, $500 was for care of the insane (evidently one per- it touch of American son). The highest salary was that of Sheriff, icluding paragraph: $111.96; the Judge received $60.00 for his services. regon, by the special There was a balance of $242.93 to begin meeting the ;et an unprecedented appropriations. astry, morality and The moderate and sensible recommendations of the ow be unknown as a Executive Committee resulted in providing for a advantages, by unit- Governor. The need of reconciling the mission no ulation, in a diligent longer existed, as the missionaries were now all in ad literature, of at- hearty accord with the government. This led to y, to as conspicuous something in the nature of politics. A convention 7er on the American was held at Champoeg, at which A. L. Lovejoy, Os- [ants of the United born Russell, George Abernethy, and W. J. Bailey iould honor and re- appeared as aspirants for nomination. Lovejoy re- s birth; and as citi- ceived the nomination, but Osborn, combining with Luniform course of Abernethy's friends, secured the latter's election; a mce of the rules of majority of 98 appearing for him in a vote of 504. principles, without The Canadian residents began to appreciate the ad- ideavors to cultivate vantage of participation, and as the Americans had ar native countries, made no restrictions whatever, but were glad to have with whom we have them, the vote showed a most gratifying advance in the acceptance of the government. In opposition to young republic felt the American candidate for Treasurer, Francis Er- and just action, and matinger, of the Hudson's Bay Company, was placed the intention was to in the field, and ran so successfully, receiving the r and wise that not solid vote of the French, as to be elected by 54 votes at to formal affilia- out of 448 cast for this office. This was a case in Lational sovereignty which the Americans won by being defeated. Dr. eported appropria- J. E. Long was elected Recorder; J. W. Nesmith- the year; of which not yet twenty-five, but having studied law to much -, V TPhi1FFTTri1flrw'TTrTii iTh I 1

II 384 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. purpose with Peter H. Burnett-Supreme Judge; which originated with t] Marcus Ford, Attorney; the ever popular Jos. Meek, 1843 the Americans aga Sheriff; and for Legislative members H. A. G. Lee, to form a temporary go W. H. Gray, and H. Straight, from Clackamas declined for the same ru County-as the districts now reorganized were called Americans applied agai counties; R. Newell, J. M. Garrison, M. G. Foisy, in the Willamette Valli and Barton Lee, for Champoeg; M. M. McCarver, to join them and form J. W. Smith and David Hill, for Tualatin; Jesse which they acceded, as Applegate and A. Hendrick, for Yamhill; and John settlers it was absolutel McClure, for Clatsop. tain peace and order ir Certificate of election was issued to AbernethyJune summer [1845] a meeti 12, 1845. lamette Valley was call A measure in the interest of further harmoniza- was new modeled, and a tion of the two elements in the country was intro- provided that no man i duced by Jesse Applegate, and has justly been cited contrary to his allegianc by Elwood Evans as an act as wise as it was liberal. to enable us to join the It was to change the oath of office so as to include the this to my colleague, British subjects jointly with the Americans, to read: thought as 1 did that in " I do solemnly swear that I will support the organic state of the country it laws of the Provisional Government of Oregon, so And I was not surprisE far as the said organic laws are consistent with my my visit to Oregon Cit: duties as a citizen of the United States, or a subject rect; as the originate of Great Britain, and faithfully demean myself in member of the Legislal office; so help me God." me and proposed to me The results of this considerate bill, which was the part of the Hudson adopted, have been told by Dr. McLoughlin. He says: versing on the subject, " Spring, 1842, the Americans invited the Canadians tion could afford assi to unite with them and organize a temporary govern- members, I told him I ment; but the Canadians, apprehensive it might in- consult with my colle terfere with their allegiance, declined, and the project, and the other officers o [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 385 iett-Supreme Judge; which originated ver popular Jos. Meek, with the mission, failed. ... In 1843 aembers H. A. G. Lee, the Americans again proposed to the Canadians ght, from Clackamas to form a temporary government, but the Canadians declined eorganized were called for the same reason as before. . .. The Americans applied again this year to the arrison, M. G. Foisy, Canadians eg; M. M. McCarver, in the Willamette Valley (who were about settlers) to join them , for Tualatin; Jesse and form a temporary government; to or Yamhill; and John which they acceded, as they saw from the influx of settlers it was absolutely necessary to do so to main- iued to AbernethyJune tain peace and order in the country. .. . In the summer [1845] a meeting of the people in the Wil- lamette Valley f further harmoniza- was called in which the organization Le country was intro- was new modeled, and a clause put in by which it was provided I has justly been cited that no man could be called to do any act contrary to his allegiance. wise as it was liberal. It struck me this was done lce so as to include the to enable us to join the organization and I mentioned this le Americans, to read: to my colleague, Chief Factor Douglas; who ill support the organic thought as 1 did that in our present situation and the rnment of Oregon, so state of the country it would be advisable to do so. xe consistent with my And I was not surprised to find a few days after on A States, or a subject my visit to Oregon City that my surmises were cor- Jly demean myself in rect; as the originator of the clause, who was a member of the Legislature then in session, called on erate bill, which was me and proposed to me to enter the organization on McLoughlin. He says: the part of the Hudson's Bay Company. After con- invited the Canadians versing on the subject, and being aware the organiza- e a temporary govern- tion could afford assistance to none but its own rehensive it might in- members, I told him I would proceed to Vancouver, clined, and the project, consult with my colleague, Chief Factor Douglas, and the other officers of -the company at that place- [Vol. 3]

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386 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN B'

which I did; and Chief Factor Douglas coincided held. The great moi with me in the expediency of our doing so. I re- asked it of the Oregon turned to Oregon City, and on the Legislature writ- and generously exten( ing me a letter inviting me to join the organization The moderation she on the part of the Hudson's Bay Company, in a writ- as remarkable as exen ten reply I informed them that I did so. " encouraged no act of Thus the little handful of plain Oregon farmers effort to capture the and pioneers, the most of them from the frontiers of McLoughlin feared, si the new States, and with little schooling in law or though unconventionf science, but with great perception of justice, accom- Government, although plished the last result that made their government of dignified governmo secure. The Hudson's Bay Company, heir of a long the offices, accomplish line of royalties and gentlemen, and as vigorous a all the elements and sprout of British conceptions of a government of in- tranquil and hopeful equality as was ever formed, did recognize the power London were moved -v as well as the justice of government by the people. Oregon boundary. TI The reason given by McLoughlin-which was the way to the prompt a] only one that he knew his company would recognize munity when the ui as valid, governing by force and yielding only to period affected also tl force-was that if he did not do so, and thus claim which were but a prE and merit the protection of the Provisional Govern- rising, were begun at ment, he felt no security but that, in the inflammable Although the Amei state of public feeling, successful efforts to capture, proximating through or clandestinely to burn, Fort Vancouver would be Provisional Goverin made by Americans. To this he was also brought by Government that Me] the effort of Henry Williamson to locate a claim on Abernethy and the X the north bank of the Columbia. The cool answer to opposed, they were b2 the first overture of the Americans, that the Hudson's the hope of speedy a( Bay Company felt no need of protection, being abun- tection as a Territor3 dantly able to protect itself, therefore no longer 'HE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 387

r Douglas coincided held. The great monopoly needed protection, and our doing so. I re- asked it of the Oregon pioneers; and this was amply the Legislature writ- and generously extended. join the organization The moderation shown on both sides is certainly r Company, in a writ- as remarkable as exemplary; and that the Americans I did so." encouraged no act of ill-will, and that none made an lain Oregon farmers effort to capture the British posts, or loot them, as from the frontiers of McLoughlin feared, shows a high, or the highest, al- schooling in law or though unconventional, morality. The Provisional on of justice, accom- Government, although ridiculed as a simple burlesque ,de their government of dignified government, and worked up chiefly for npany, heir of a long the offices, accomplished its purpose of harmonizing 1, and as vigorous a all the elements and keeping the little community e a government of in- tranquil and hopeful, while both Washington and I recognize the power London were moved with portentous debate over the ament by the people. Oregon boundary. This initial harmonization led the hlin-which was the way to the prompt and decisive defense of the com- any would recognize munity when the unrest consequent upon a war nd yielding only to period affected also the Indian tribes, and hostilities, Lo so, and thus claim which were but a prelude to the general Indian up- Provisional Govern- rising, were begun at Waiilatpu. Lt, in the inflammable Although the Americans in Oregon were thus ap- al efforts to capture, proximating through the desire to embrace all in the Vancouver would be Provisional Government, almost the Independent was also brought by Government that McLoughlin had favored and that to locate a claim on Abernethy and the Mission party had so strongly The cool answer to opposed, they were by no means drifting away from ns, that the Hudson's the hope of speedy admission to full rights and pro- otection, being abun- tection as a Territory of the United States. At this therefore no longer

I I

388 THE GROWTH OF same session a committee consisting of Gray, Apple- gate, H. A. G. Lee, McClure, and Hill, was appointed to draft a memorial to Congress. This was speedily drawn and forwarded by Dr. White, and presented December 8th, by Senator Benton, the champion of Oregon since the death of Dr. Linn. It was charac- terized by him as creditable to the body by which it was presented, and " the application worthy of a fa- vorable consideration for its moderation, reasonable- ness and justice." Probably the moderation of tone was due to none more than to Applegate. After stating that the Oregon country was settled by the subjects of a crown in common with American citizens between whom no common bond of union ex- ists, and hence liable to serious discords, it proceeds: " It may naturally be supposed, in absence of any provision having been made by the two governments to prevent or settle any such occurrences, that con- flicting interests, aided by ancient prejudices, would speedily lead to results the most disastrous; par- ticularly when it is considered that this mixed popu- lation exists in the midst of numerous warlike tribes of Indians, to whom the smallest dissension among the white inhabitants would be the signal to let loose upon their defenseless families all the horrors of savage warfare. " To prevent a calamity so much to be dreaded, the well disposed inhabitants of the Territory have found it absolutely necessary to establish a provi- sional and temporary government, embracing all free asisting of Gray, Apple- and Hill, was appointed ress. This was speedily r. White, and presented ~enton, the champion of 'r. Linn. It was charac- to the body by which it vlication worthy of a fa- moderation, reasonable- r the moderation of tone ao Applegate. gon country was settled common with American mmon bond of union ex- us discords, it proceeds: posed, in absence of any by the two governments h occurrences, that con- Ii acient prejudices, would most disastrous; par-i I ,d that this mixed popu- numerous warlike tribes allest dissension among be the signal to let loose ilies all the horrors of soryment,s oftomuch the establishembracing Territoryto be dreaded,a allprovi- havefree __ __III_ __II_!_.| ioi.

AN AMERICAN STATE 389

male citizens; and whose legislative and judicial powers should be equal to all the exigencies that may arise among themselves, not provided for by the gov- ernment to which they owe allegiance. And we are most happy to inform your honorable body that, with but few individual exceptions, the utmost harmony and good-will has been the result of this, as we con- ceive, wise and judicious measure; and the British subjects and American citizens vie with each other in their obedience and respect to the laws, and in pro- moting the common good and general welfare of Oregon. " Although such has been the result thus far, of our temporary union of interests-though we, the citizens of the United States, have no cause to com- plain either of exactions or oppressions at the hands of the subjects of Great Britain, but, on the contrary, it is but just to say their conduct toward us has been most friendly, liberal and philanthropic; yet we fear that a long continuance of this state of things is not to be expected-our temporary government being limited in its efficiency and crippled in its powers by the paramount duty we owe to our respective gov- ernments-our revenue being inadequate to its sup- port, and the almost total absence, apart from the Hudson's Bay Company, of the means of defense against the Indians, who, as recent occurrences lead us to fear, entertain hostile feelings toward the peo- ple of the United States. " The petition then proceeds to remark upon the

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more ample means of defense of the British in the priation at Fort Walla Territory; that the criminal code of upper Canada to that afforded to tb had been extended to Oregon, with officers of the could not be reasonab] peace; that the Americans in Oregon were laboring That the British Gov under the greatest commercial disadvantages, pri- protection for her sul vate capital being insufficient to compete with an old the testimony of McL and wealthy corporation, especially as the Americans the pleasure (1844) to in Oregon were without ships of war or of commerce, este,' Captain Baillie; or controlled navigation of the rivers; and conclud- couver. . .. I wrot ing, prayed for a district territorial government, pro- of the Hudson's Bay ( tection from the Indians, a land law in accordance to get protection from with the " Linn Bill "; navy yards and marine son's Bay Company'; depots on the Columbia and Puget Sound; a public June, 1845, I received mail monthly from Independence, Mo.; commercial the present state of a regulations to enable the Americans to trade on an obtain protection froi equality with the British; military protection to must protect it the be emigrants from the United States to Oregon, and sent an account of Wi]

finally, if all these objects were deemed inexpedient, * Hon. John Minto, who wi at least a military and naval protection equal to that in the Willamette Valley, ai enjoyed by the British subjects in Oregon. clear the attempt of his fries says: " In the Williamson c That all the measures asked for were wise and by a man as clean and upril justifiable, is amply shown by succeeding events. The the United States, as good a the Hudson's Bay Company hostile disposition of the truly powerful and warlike licensed fur traders. As to Indian tribes-at least a portion of them-of the tions Williamson felt (and upper Columbia, was only too certainly beginning to by the organic law adopted for protection, peace and ordi be developed; the only supply of arms and muni, its jurisdiction and give th, tions of war, in case of an uprising, was to be found of the Linn Bill strongly i] 640 acres was much strongE with the Hudson's Bay Company, as upon actual out- pany to thirty-five miles fro break of the Cayuse these had to be obtained by pur- the Columbia River, reaching chase on private credit at Vancouver, and by appro- Of Williamson himself M PHE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 391

of the British in the priation at Fort Walla Walla. That protection equal bode of upper Canada to that afforded to the British subjects in Oregon , with officers of the could not be reasonably denied was evident enough. Oregon were laboring That the British Government was preparing ample d disadvantages, pri- protection for her subjects is evident enough from o compete with an old the testimony of McLoughlin. He says: " We had [ally as the Americans the pleasure (1844) to see her Majesty's ship ' Mod- f war or of commerce, este,' Captain Baillie; she anchored opposite Van- rivers; and conclud- couver. . .. I wrote, fall of 1843, to the directors )rial government, pro- of the Hudson's Bay Company that it was necessary ad law in accordance to get protection from the Government for the Hud- y yards and marine son's Bay Company's property, and to which, in iget Sound; a public June, 1845, I received their answer, stating that in ice, Mo.; commercial the present state of affairs the company could not ricans to trade on an obtain protection from the government, and that I ilitary protection to must protect it the best way I could; and as I had Lates to Oregon, and sent an account of Williamson's* attempt to build on deemed inexpedient, * Hon. John Minto, who was afterwards a partner of Williamson's, 'otection equal to that in the Willamette Valley, and has taken a deep interest in making in Oregon. clear the attempt of his friend to find a home north of the Columbia, I for were wise and says: " In the Williamson case he [Dr. McLoughlin] was confronted by a man as clean and upright as himself, claiming, as a citizen of icceeding events. The the United States, as good a right to take open land for a home as powerful and warlike the Hudson's Bay Company had to occupy it in their business as ion of them-of licensed fur traders. As to the implied right Dr. McLoughlin men- the tions Williamson felt (and I believe he was right) that supported *ertainly beginning to by the organic law adopted by the body of free residents of Oregon r of arms and muni, for protection, peace and order, until the United States should extend its jurisdiction and give the land to the settlers, as its treatment sing, was to be found of the Linn Bill strongly intimated it would, his implied right to y, as upon actual out- 640 acres was much stronger than that of the Hudson's Bay Com- pany to thirty-five miles from east to west along the north bank of o be obtained by pur- the Columbia River, reaching back as far as their stock traveled." ouver, and by appro- Of Williamson himself Minto makes this appreciative statement:

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392 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN S9

the premises of the Hudson's Bay Company, and of port to assure her Haj my proceedings on the occasion, to her Majesty's firm protection." This consul, General Millar, at Oahu, calling on him for Loughlin, and was qui protection for the Hudson's Bay Company's prop- cision to join the Pro erty, to which he did not even reply, though he could was at some loss whet] have done so by the vessel which conveyed the letter, British vessels of wa I was much surprised a few days after the ar- Douglas-who had a: rival of Chief Factor Ogden, by the arrival of Lieu- and less sense of honor tenant Peel and Captain Parks, who handed me a let- should. All of which ter from Captain Gordon, of her Majesty's ship visional Government a ' America,' from Nisqually, and stating he was sent tion of a territorial E by Admiral Seymour, who wrote me to the same pur- faithful effort to presei a house of cards if it " As to Henry Williamson, whose act I construe as the beginning of the end of the Hudson's Bay rule over Oregon, his prudence soon got to strike a blow in Orel the better of his heart in the contest, and he let it be known that he indeed underneath the left his claim in abeyance rather than be the cause of a disturbance, but expected to assert his rights later. He was as fine a specimen of young, selfreliant manhood as I have ever known, as honorable as any member of the Hudson's Bay Company, from the president to the poorest servant. Son of a prominent stock-breeder of Hamilton County, O., he left La Porte, Ind.. in the spring of 1844 in company of James Hunt. They were friends and comrades, both members of the Baptist church." Mr. Minto has no criticism for Dr. McLoughlin, who " knew the business interests he represented were (by the action of forming the Provisional Government) being drawn between the upper and the nether millstones of two national powers." On the contrary the policy of the great Chief Factor is commended. " His business judg- ment and humanity alike impelled him to turn away from Colonel Vavasour's suggestion of bringing British troops via the Selkirk settlement and slaughtering the Americans then in Oregon. He continued his humane and conciliatory course." Minto, however, has not so high an estimate of James Douglas, who was " the leader " of " the pro-British party " at Vancouver, between whom and Mc- Loughlin the " bonds " were severed by that " humane and concilia- tory course." THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 393

Bay Company, and of port to assure her Majesty's subjects in the country of ion, to her Majesty's firm protection." This was very unexpected to Mc- 1n, calling on him for Loughlin, and was quite embarrassing after his de- Bay Company's prop- cision to join the Provisional Government; and he reply, though he could was at some loss whether to accept the protection of ch conveyed the letter, British vessels of war, but upon conference with few days after the ar- Douglas-who had a much more pliable conscience y the arrival of Lieu- and less sense of honor-he decided that hemight and , who handed me a let- should. All of which shows how wisely the Pro- e her Majesty's ship visional Government acted in asking a speedy erec- id stating he was sent tion of a territorial government in Oregon; their te me to the same pur- faithful effort to preserve peace would have gone like construe as the beginning of a house of cards if it had suited British diplomacy Oregon, his prudence soon got to strike a blow in Oregon. The entire situation was Ad he let it be known that he indeed underneath the suspended sword. e the cause of a disturbance, He was as fine a specimen ever known, as honorable as pany, from the president to at stock-breeder of Hamilton e spring of 1844 in company I comrades, both members of

UcLoughlin, who " knew the by the action of forming the between the upper and the ers." On the contrary the iended. " His business judg- to turn away from Colonel tish troops via the Selkirk icans then in Oregon. He Durse." Minto, however, has is, who was "the leader" of r, between whom and Mc- that "humane and concilia- - - - ,-- ; - - 11- I I

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PROGRESS 4 CHAPTER XIII

PROGRESS OF IMMIGRATION 0, 7_ M

UNNDER th( ting faii tinuing boundag emigrate stimulated. Many amo cided to go to Oregon country beyond all dan seldom lost an opportu securing the route to t by way of the Columbia should be the emporiui nected with the Old W( In a public address at S made what has since pr( " I say the man is alivE what I say (without bE yet see the Asiatic cot Pacific Ocean-entering the western slope of th from its gorges-an( streams over our wide- boat and the steam car wonders. They have nc most appropriate theal the north Pacific Ocean which spread east and Rocky Mountains. Th car are not yet seen u] plain, but they will be UNNDER the tremendous agitation get- ting fairly started in 1844, and con- tinuing thereafter until the Oregon boundary was finally settled in 1846, emigration to Oregon was greatly stimulated. Many among the more adventurous de- cided to go to Oregon and place possession of the country beyond all danger of dispute. Benton now seldom lost an opportunity to urge the necessity of securing the route to the Pacific and to the Orient by way of the Columbia; St. Louis, he thus declared, should be the emporium of the West, and be con- nected with the Old World of China and the Indies. In a public address at St. Louis, October 19, 1844, he made what has since proved a remarkable prediction: " I say the man is alive, full grown, and listening to what I say (without believing it perhaps) who will yet see the Asiatic commerce traversing the north Pacific Ocean-entering the Oregon River-climbing the western slope of the Rocky Mountains-issuing from its gorges-and spreading its fertilizing streams over our wide-extended Union! The steam- boat and the steam car have not exhausted all their wonders. They have not yet found their amplest and most appropriate theaters-the tranquil surface of the north Pacific Ocean, and the vast inclined plains which spread east and west from the base of the Rocky Mountains. The magic boat and the flying car are not yet seen upon this ocean and upon this plain, but they will be seen there; and St. Louis is I

398 THE GROWTH OF yet to find herself as near Canton as she is now to London, with a better and a safer route by land and sea to China and Japan than she now has to France and Great Britain. " The immigration of 1844 numbered 475, as stated by McLoughlin. The main body started from Inde- pendence under General , who had seen service in the South. He was accompanied by his family, in which were married children; and also by his sister and her husband, William Shaw. There were other parties, one of which was commanded by Major Tharp. In Tharp's company was William M. Case, who took a vital part in the Americanization of California and has since been a leading citizen of Marion County. Gilliam's company-as all the companies started with a strict civil and military organization-suf- fered greatly from delays in crossing the frontiers; and from the very cause that Applegate mentioned as obviated by the attentions of Dr. M. Whitman. This led to the usual dissatisfaction, and the gradual di- vision of the train into companies, and finally into GENE1EAI mere squads, and some squads dividing into single families, and the young men after reaching Fort Hall striking out ahead for assistance in bringing in the families with which they were connected. At this British post one of the immigrants-Father Cave- inquired of Captain Grant whether they could take their wagons through. He replied: " Last year the emigrants asked me the same question; I replied that THE GROWTH OF r Canton as she is now to I a safer route by land and ban she now has to France

14 numbered 475, as stated in body started from Inde- _ornelius Gilliam, who had . He was accompanied by married children; and also and, William Shaw. There which was commanded by s company was William M. t in the Americanization of been a leading citizen of all the companies started ailitary organization-suf- ; in crossing the frontiers; iat Applegate mentioned as of Dr. M. Whitman. This iction, and the gradual di- ompanies, and finally into WENSAL JOEL PALMER quads dividing into single n after reaching Fort Hall 3istance in bringing in the were connected. At this umigrants-Father Cave- Lt whether they could take e replied: " Last year the me question; I replied that

AN AMERICAN STATE 399

I thought not; we found it hard to get through with pack horses. But they went; and the next we heard of them they were on the Columbia with their wagons. You Yankees go wherever you please. " Nevertheless, owing to the late start, the extended journey, and being unaccompanied by experienced guides, many of the families suffered greatly before reaching their destination, and it was not until the New Year that all were housed on the Willamette. To a very valuable synopsis of this immigration, by John Minto, we are indebted for a roll of the men, and some sketch of the arrivals. As will be seen, Oregon owed to the immigration of 1844 some of her best and most substantial citizens. From this list the following are selected as representative. Alanson Hinman, a native of New York State, en- gaged in school teaching by Dr. Whitman, and sta- tioned at the Dalles at the time of massacre; also in the Willamette Institute; later embarked in mercan- tile business at Forest Grove; served as collector at Astoria under Johnson and Grant. Now living at Forest Grove. Joseph Watt, who started for Texas to assist in establishing an American government, but changed his course to Oregon; settled at Amity, in Yamhill County, engaged extensively in sheep and stock rais- ing, and promoted woolen manufactures. A leading farmer and citizen. R. W. Morrison, from Virginia and Missouri, be- came a settler on Clatsop Plains, engaging in saw pii;_

400 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN SI

milling and dairying, and founding a well-known Nathaniel Ford, ca family. pany; a leading settle John Minto, a native of England, but once in County. America-or even before, as his father was a " pa- Rev. E. E. Parrish, 4 triot "-he became the most stalwart of Americans, of the emigration, and a illustrating again that America is the truer home of County. the liberty-loving English yeoman. Mr. Minto be- Captain William Shi came one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Florida war and under Marion County and of eastern, or middle Oregon; Cornelius Gilliam, as discovered, or rediscovered, the " Minto Pass," was Florida war, and men: a leading promoter of the Oregon State Fair, an edi- ture. Was commandei tor of the Willamette Farmer, one of the founders of , during wl the Pioneer Association, and a large contributor to dental discharge of a the publications of the Oregon Historical Society. Hoover, Daniel Clarke, He is founder also of one of the leading families of Daniel, Mountain Rot the Willamette Valley. Gillahan, Westley and ] James Marshall, the discoverer of gold in Califor- Gilbert, and others, desi nia. notice as the chronicles William M. Case, as before mentioned. recorded. Willard H. Rees, a man of brilliant natural abili- One group, however, ties, a printer at St. Louis, and a cultivated writer. This consisted of Colon Settled near Butteville, Marion County. One of the liam Shaw, George Cramv leading spirits in the Pioneer Association, to whom Crawford, Ninian Eberi much is owed in the way of historical data. ton, David Parker, Micll Captain Charles Bennett, from the United States Kindred, Samuel B. ( Army; second captain of the Oregon Rangers; served Henry and James Owe and was killed in the Walla Walla Valley in the gen- Colonel Simmons was eral Indian war. Simmons was a native c Henry Williamson, who attempted the settlement western man, about thi north of the Columbia. in Oregon, and also hea [Vol. 31 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 401 Com- founding a well-known Nathaniel Ford, captain of Independence pany; a leading settler and political leader in Polk England, but once in County. s his father was a " pa- Rev. E. E. Parrish, compiler of a valuable journal t stalwart of Americans, of the emigration, and settler at Parrish Gap, Marion rica is the truer home of County. yeoman. Mr. Minto be- Captain William Shaw, as above; a soldier in the ners and stock raisers of Florida war and under Jackson in 1812. tern, or middle Oregon; Cornelius Gilliam, as above, and served also in the the " Minto Pass," was Florida war, and member of the Missouri Legisla- regon State Fair, an edi- ture. Was commander of the Oregon forces in the or, one of the founders of Cayuse war, during which he was killed by the acci- d a large contributor to dental discharge of a musket. David Goff, Jacob 'egon Historical Society. Hoover, Daniel Clarke, Elisha McDaniel, Joshua Mc- )f the leading families of Daniel, Mountain Robinson, Martin and William Gillahan, Westley and Luke Mulkey, J. Roland, I. N. wverer of gold in Califor- Gilbert, and others, deserve and will receive extended notice as the chronicles of the immigrations are fully )re mentioned. recorded. of brilliant natural abili- One group, however, should be noticed by itself. , and a cultivated writer. This consisted of Colonel Michael T. Simmons, Wil- rion County. One of the liam Shaw, George Crawford, George Waunch, David eer Association, to whom Crawford, Ninian Eberman (of '43), Selburn Thorn- historical data. ton, David Parker, Michael Moore, John Hunt, David ;, from the United States Kindred, Samuel B. Crockett, and George Bush, e Oregon Rangers; served Henry and James Owens, and Henry Williamson. t Walla Valley in the gen- Colonel Simmons was perhaps the leading spirit. Simmons was a native of Kentucky, a typical south- attempted the settlement western man, about thirty years old on his arrival in Oregon, and also head of a family. On reaching [Vol. 37

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402 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST.

the Columbia he was delayed at Washougal on ac- ating to make America count of the approaching confinement of his wife, place a soldier, in the p( and finally found accommodations at Vancouver in a a British trader might b small hut. Here he felt the influence of the Hudson's The jurisdiction of I Bay Company to be seeking to keep him away from was extended over Was] the country north of the Columbia; and found his this was not allowed to independent spirit rising to discover for himself what of the magnanimous Bui was there. To this conclusion he was also moved by of Simmons, who was s George Bush, a colored man, but free, who also had Oregon Legislature, was been a soldier with Jackson at New Orleans. Bush removing the race disa was well-to-do, and had assisted Simmons and others friend. Thus. though t] to come to Oregon. He was in every way a reliable and generous man; and intelligent withal. The law Medare G. Foisy, a pioneer excluding negroes from Oregon had just been passed, at Spalding's mission station. Li he worked on the little printii and he preferred a settlement in Washington, which Sandwich Island mission, and p was more likely to become British territory. Ex- ing, the New Testament in the plorations were made the by two y( during the winter and spring, of French lineage, and reared and in October settlement was made at Tumwater, at went West as a lad, learned th the head of Budd's Inlet. These first settlers St. Louis Republican. In 1844 of Flathead country, and thence Washington were Colonel Simmons and family, Willamette. He served in the James McAllister and family, David Kindred and up the new constitution and law family, Gabriel Jones and California assisting in the Am family, George Bush and free State, strongly opposing sla family, and Jesse Ferguson and Samuel B. Crockett. he passed the remainder of his On Simmons 's claim was laid out a town called New Among the arrivals in 1844 t been a sailor in the South Pacifi Market. The others mentioned, but not included years previous and was left abot here, assisted in the explorations. Immigration of the desolate islet charted as Loi 1844 was thus of in which he suffered unparallE great importance in extending the Pacific, settling at the Sandwicl claims of the United States north of the Columbia. gaging in silk culture; but learni The policy of Benton to put " thirty thousand rifles in Oregon, decided to remove country to the United States. in the valley of the Oregon, " was thus already oper- pioneer in horticulture. - THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 403

Ad at Washougal on ac- ating to make American occupation a fact,* and to onfinement of his wife, place a soldier, in the person of the settler, wherever itions at Vancouver in a a British trader might be. afluence of the Hudson's The jurisdiction of the Provisional Government to keep him away from was extended over Washington-as now known-but )lumbia; and found his this was not allowed to operate to the disadvantage iscover for himself what of the magnanimous Bush. One of the first concerns rn he was also moved by of Simmons, who was sent from that district to the but free, who also had Oregon Legislature, was to secure passage of a bill at New Orleans. Bush removing the race disabilities of his neighbor and ted Simmons and others friend. Thus, though the laws against colored per- in every way a reliable iligent withal. The law * Medare G. Foisy, a pioneer printer of Oregon, arrived in 1844 at Spalding's mission station. Lapwai. Early in the fall of that year ,on had just been passed, he worked on the little printing press obtained as a gift from a it in Washington, which Sandwich Island mission, and printed from copy prepared by Spald- British territory. Ex- ing, the New Testament in the Nez Perce language. This antedated the Oregon Spectator by two years. Foisy was a native of Quebec, r the winter and spring, of French lineage, and reared in the Roman Catholic faith. He Ls made at Tumwater, at went West as a lad, learned the printer's trade and worked on the St. Louis Republican. In 1844 he came with Father Joset to the These first settlers of Flathead country, and thence to Lapwai, and soon after to the Simmons and family, Willamette. He served in the Legislature, 1845, assisted drawing ly, David Kindred and up the new constitution and laws, and afterwards spent some time in California assisting in the American conquest and formation of a imily, George Bush and free State, strongly opposing slavery. He returned to Oregon, where mnd Samuel B. Crockett. he passed the remainder of his life (Willard H. Rees). Among the arrivals in 1844 by sea was Horace Holden, who had a out a town called New been a sailor in the South Pacific, but suffered shipwreck nearly ten oned, but not included years previous and was left about three years with the natives upon itions. Immigration of the desolate islet charted as Lord North's island. After his rescue, in which he suffered unparalleled hardships, he returned to the )rtance in extending the Pacific, settling at the Sandwich Islands, with the intention of en- north of the Columbia. gaging in silk culture; but learning of the struggles of the Americans in Oregon, decided to remove hither and assist in winning this " thirty thousand rifles country to the United States. He settled near Salem, becoming a was thus already oper- pioneer in horticulture.

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404 THE GROWTH OF sons looked black enough, in their practical relations the actual persons of negro blood were treated with great respect. In 1845 the emigration rose to such proportions as to pass all the limits of such a work as this to even mention the representative men. From tens and hundreds the figures now passed to the thousands- three thousand being the estimate of McLoughlin. By Steven Staats a company of sixty-one wagons and about three hundred persons, commanded by Colonel T 'Vault, with John Waymire and James Allen as lieutenants; another commanded by Solo- mon Tetherous; and still another by Samuel Barlow, are mentioned. It was this year that an effort to find a shorter route to the Dalles was undertaken by Stephen Meek, who proved to be an unreliable guide, and himself became lost; the draggled immigrants at last succeeding in passing through the John Day country by the help of Indians. Of this immigration was Samuel R. Thurston, first Delegate from Oregon SAMU1E First Delega to Congress; Joel Palmer, afterward General and a leading figure in the settlement of Indian troubles and inaugurating the reservation system, and in the political and railroad history of a later day. Wm. J. Herren, John Durbin, Rufus Riggs, John Fleming, James McMillan, and many others well known in the industrial or political history of the State, were immigrants of this year. Among these J. C. Avery is especially mentioned by Staats, as the founder of the city of Corvallis. THE GROWTH OF

in their practical relations ro blood were treated with

rose to such proportions as uch a work as this to even ve men. From tens and passed to the thousands- 3stimate of McLoughlin. apany of sixty-one wagons I persons, commanded by ohn Waymire and James )ther commanded by Solo- another by Samuel Barlow, s year that an effort to find )alles was undertaken by d to be an unreliable guide, the draggled immigrants ing through the John Day lians. Of this immigration I first Delegate from Oregon SAMUEL R. THURSTON Firt Deoegate to Compees fro Orego r, afterward General and a :lementof Indian troubles *rvation system, and in the ory of a later day. Wm. J. ifus Riggs, John Fleming, many others well known 3t1 history of the State, were Among these J. C. Avery r Staats, as the founder of

AN AMERICAN STATE 405

During this year the first effort was made to open a road over the Cascade Mountains, near the base of Mount Hood, on the south side. S. K. Barlow, who remarked that God never made a mountain without some place for a man to go over it, or under it, with eighteen men and women, besides children, struck out from the Dalles with thirteen wagons, sixteen yoke of cattle, and seven horses. It was not until Decem- ber 23 that the party emerged from the mountains and forests and arrived at Foster's farm-the haven of the later immigrants. The wagons were not brought through, but cached on the top of the divide. Those joining with Barlow and his family were Wil- liam Rector, J. C. Caplinger, and Mr. Gessner, and their respective wives; and John Bacon and William Bacon; although Rector returned to the Dalles. The road was cut through the next season, and although so steep on its western passes as to require that wagons be let down some of the hills by means of ropes passed around trees, which still bear the marks of the cords, or stayed by small trees tied to the hind axle, this completed the all-wagon route from the Missouri to the Willamette, and was in constant use by the after arrivals. A census taken in June of 1845 showed a total pop- ulation of two thousand one hundred and nine. This was before the arrival of the immigration of that year. The immigration of 1846 was probably not so great, but undoubtedly numbered over two thousand. 1IW

406 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST It is stated by J. Quinn Thornton, who came to Ore- exclude the rain. Son gon that season, that seven hundred and fifty wagons fornia' painted on th were counted on the plains, some of which were for played' Oregon,' in let California, but the most for Oregon. In his own com- ran might read; some pany there were seventy-two wagons, one hundred ' The whole or none'; and thirty men, sixty-five women, one hundred and Forty, or Fight. " ' twenty-five children, or three hundred and twenty im- Thus the American v migrants. This would average about four persons the main agent of natic to a wagon. Trains of sixty wagons have also been has now become the st, mentioned having about three hundred persons. But significance, nor discre at four to the wagon the seven hundred and fifty The distinguishing fe wagons would indicate about three thousand persons. the effort to find " cu Of the five thousand persons stated by Miss Barlow, sages than that by thi to have left the Missouri border the previous year, ambition of Dr. White three thousand reached Oregon; the remainder turn- into the Willamette, ar ing back, or going to California. Of three thousand, in proposing the use or over, actually on the plains in 1846, two thousand Indian trail reported would probably have reached Oregon. Among those tirely forgotten until starting for Oregon this season was ex-Governor many years after, an( Boggs, who intended making Oregon his home, but plegate and others, by taking the Applegate " cut-off," found himself at believed that a more length much nearer the California settlements, and Humboldt Valley, am became a Californian. could be found. To thi The strongly patriotic motive animating this im- ton and many others migration is indicated by the following description of larger portion persis the wagons, as given by Thornton: " The wagons though through a pori were generally new, strong and well painted. All and as stated by him were covered with either linen or cotton drilling; over the Umpqua Mou some of the covers being painted or thoroughly satu- The use of this route i rated with boiled linseed oil, so as to more effectually gave rise to life-long, THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 407 Jrnton, who came to Ore- exclude the rain. Some of the wagons had ' Cali- hundred and fifty wagons fornia' painted on the cover; some of them dis- some of which were for played' Oregon, ' in letters so large that even he who Oregon. In his own com- ran might read; some added in yet larger letters, 7o wagons, one hundred 'The whole or none '; and still others, ' Fifty-four women, one hundred and Forty, or Fight. " ' hundred and twenty im- Thus the American wagon was still the symbol and 'age about four persons the main agent of national growth. That this wagon r wagons have also been has now become the steam car does not diminish'its e hundred persons. But significance, nor discredit its progenitor. even hundred and fifty The distinguishing feature of this immigration was three thousand persons. the effort to find " cut-offs " affording easier stated by Miss Barlow, pas- sages than that by the Columbia. It had been the *rder the previous year, ambition of Dr. White to establish an all-wagon route on; the remainder turn- into the Willamette, and he considered that he did ria. Of three thousand, so in proposing the use of an old Hudson's Bay and s in 1846, two thousand Indian trail reported by Thomas McKay, but en- Oregon. Among those tirely forgotten until rediscovered by John Minto, Mason was ex-Governor many years after, and now bearing his name. Ap- t Oregon his home, but plegate and others, by a hasty survey in the summer, off," found himself at believed that a more expeditious route through the fornia settlements, and Humboldt Valley, and thence to the Rogue River, could be found. To this Governor Boggs and Thorn- ;ive animating this im- ton and many others turned off; Thornton and the ollowing description of larger portion persisted in coming to Oregon, al- rnton: " The wagons though through a portion of the Sacramento Valley; mnd well painted. All and as stated by him, but one whole wagon passed en or cotton drilling; over the Umpqua Mountains and through the Canyon. ;ed or thoroughly satu- The use of this route was undoubtedlymisjudged, and ) as to more effectually gave rise to life-long animosities. Among others be- Ir

408 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. sides Judge Thornton arriving this year were Dr. of Ralph C. B. Geer, delivere Grounds: McBride, General Simpson, and Mrs. Tabitha "The emigration of 1847, 1 Brown; and many others who rose to usefulness, or posed of men and women who even eminence, in the young commonwealth; some hardships for the purpose of fin and not a few either, were willi of whom will be mentioned as the institutions and trip for the sake of finding a ir government of the Territory and State are more par- alone I sold my little farm in civilization, as everybody thoul ticularly chronicled. 'the Great American Desert.' A pioneer by sea of 1846 was Clement Adams ments held out by the general grants to all actual settlers, at Bradbury, from Maine; who had been a sailor in the here and elsewhere, and also b) whaling grounds of both the North and South Pa- seen this beautiful, and to me, cific. After a sojourn in Australia he resumed whal- ' We left the Missouri the 6 Creek we organized by electing ing, and suffered shipwreck in Bering's Sea; being officers that belong to such an rescued was brought to the Sandwich Islands, and had about eighty-five wagons, took what was called the Chica from Honolulu came with Captain Crosby to the Co- Cox, which increased our coni lumbia. however, was later divided]. At the June election of 1847, before the arrival of Illinois, the Democratic Centr iron cannon, made by a Whi1 the immigrants of that year, there was a total vote Clay, in 1844, and when he wa, cast for governor of 1074 (Brown), indicating a total they named it the "Young DE to Oregon. It was a real ser population of five or six thousand. The immigration fifteen or twenty miles, and o] of 1847 added between four and five thousand more. that every night after we cai And I think it was true, for v The immigration of 1847 was on many accounts the most im- only when we neglected to let portant hitherto. It was estimated at between four and five thou- " That camp was the finest i sand; by Ralph C. Geer, of the immigration itself, as nearer the tained ninety-nine wagons, al latter than the former figure. In this company were included many children, from six to sixty yea of the men who later became leaders; much improved stock was and professions. I think tha brought, greatly increasing the value of the farm animals, and the pioneers of 1847 ...... Fr first grafted fruit was imported by Luelling, in what has been called obtain I think the emigration ( "the traveling nursery." By Geer, Cox and others a quantity of ... . The emigrants werE seeds of apple, peach and other fruit trees was brought, which, being tered, either, over at least fiv planted, afforded in course of time substantial roots for grafting The pioneers of 1847 spread a] purposes, and in some cases produced fine varieties of seedlings, the Umpqua, thereby enabling the Cox Cling peach being from the store of pits brought by Mr. Cox. the land." Mentioning some o The following is a condensation from the valuable pioneer address * Palmer's econd trip to Oregon. THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 409 ing this year were Dr. of Ralph C. B. Geer, delivered in 1879 at the Oregon State Fair 1, and Mrs. Tabitha Grounds: "The emigration of 1847, like all former emigrations, was com- o rose to usefulness, or posed of men and women who were willing to brave all manner of * commonwealth; some hardships for the purpose of finding a better country to live in; some, as and not a few either, were willing to undergo the toilsome and tedious the institutions and trip for the sake of finding a more healthy country. For that reason and State are more par- alone I sold my little farm in Knox County, Illinois, bid farewell to civilization, as everybody thought at that time, and started to cross 'the Great American Desert.' Others were influenced by the induce- ) was Clement Adams ments held out by the general government in the shape of large land had been a sailor in the grants to all actual settlers, and the accounts given by writers from * North here and elsewhere, and also by the lectures of reliable men who had and South Pa- seen this beautiful, and to me, unequaled country. tralia he resumed whal- ' We left the Missouri the 6th of June, and when we got to Wolf in Bering's Sea; being Creek we organized by electing Joel Palmer * captain, and the usual officers that belong to such an organization. When we organized we Sandwich Islands, and had about eighty-five wagons, and in the Nemaha country we over- )tain Crosby to the Co- took what was called the Chicago Company, headed by Uncle Thomas Cox, which increased our company to ninety-nine wagons [which, however, was later divided] ...... When I left Knox County, 7, before the arrival of Illinois, the Democratic Central Committee had a small wrought- there was a total vote iron cannon, made by a Whig, to celebrate the election of Henry Clay, in 1844, and when he was beaten gave it to the Democrats, and own), indicating a total they named it the " Yo ung Democrat," and gave it to me to bring Land. The immigration to Oregon. It was a real screamer to talk-it could be heard for fifteen or twenty miles, and old mountaineers said that if we fired nd five thousand more. that every night after we camped Indians would not trouble us. And I think it was true, for we adopted that plan, and no stealing many accounts the most im- only when we neglected to let her bark...... ; between four and five thou- " That camp was the finest camp of pioneers I ever saw. It con- igration itself, as nearer the tained ninety-nine wagons, about four hundred men, women and company were included many children, from six to sixty years of age, representing all the trades ; much improved stock was and professions. I think that camp was a good average of the A the farm animals, and the pioneers of 1847 ...... From the best information I am able to ling, in what has been called obtain I think the emigration of 1847 numbered five thousand souls. ox and others a quantity of ... . The emigrants were scattered, and not very thinly scat- ees was brought, which, being tered, either, over at least five hundred miles of road...... abstantial roots for grafting The pioneers of 1847 spread all over this (Willamette) valley, and ine varieties of seedlings, the Umpqua, thereby enabling the people to establish schools all over I pits brought by Mr. Cox. the land." Mentioning some of the individuals of this immigration the valuable pioneer address * SPaber'm second trip to Oregon. F; 4, - __ - - -1 1 I __- -I, r

410 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST

Mr. Geer says in different places: "Three days before we got to twenty inches to four feet hi the Soda Springs we passed by the grave of Elias Brown, who died protected on the entire journm June 17, 1847, of mountain fever; father of J. Henry Brown, our Dalles for the transit down efficient secretary [also author of Brown's History of Oregon]. At taking.] the crossing of the Umatilla we met F. W. Geer, of Butteville, who Mr. Geer concludes: " Excv told us how it rained in the Cascade Mountains and what we had to one bushel of apple and one-ha encounter. We did not realize the situation then, but did after- toward supplying this coast M wards. furnished Luelling with stock " The stock interests were advanced by the introduction of fine his traveling nursery, which er horses, cattle and sheep, by enterprising pioneers of that year of trees at an early day, and ce whom I will speak. Uncle Johnny Wilson, as we used to call him, God-send to me and mine." brought a drove of Durhams from Henry Clay's herd at Blue Grass Joseph Carey Geer, father of Grove, III ...... He also brought as fine mares as could be year; other sons, besides Rall bought in Illinois ...... Captain Benser brought a herd of fine Joel Palmer Geer. This is on cattle, and improved the herds of the Columbia bottoms vastly. J. numbering at the death of the C. Geer, Sr., brought a fine cow of Henry Clay's favorite stock. sixty-seven. M. L. Savage brought old George that year [a record making race horse]. . . . . Sheep industry received a big lift that As to antecedents an( year. Mr. Fields brought a flock of fine sheep from Missouri and stopped with them near Uncle Dan. Waldo's. Fields and his wife to Oregon, Dr. Whitma both died under a large fir tree with measles. The sheep were sold War of those of 1843: at auction in small lots; they proved to be superior sheep, to say different States, but pri the least. Uncle Headrick, William Turpin and Johnson Mulkey brought a fine flock...... kansas, Illinois, and No " The emigration brought everything, nearly, from a paper of pins these are farmers, lured to a four foot burr. Mr. Haun, of Haun's mill notoriety, in Missouri, brought the pair of mill burrs...... Uncle Thomas Cox and ment bounty in lands, by William, his son, brought a respectable store across the plains and soil, and by the desire opened out at Salem the first store south of Champoeg. William also planting our institutior brought some peach pits and planted them and originated the cele- brated Cox Cling peach. Uncle A. R. Dimick, the originator of the Among them, also, are a Dimick potato, brought the seeds of the Early Shaker Blue prising, with the farmern potato from Michigan. But the greatest undertaking, and one that was crowned with success, and one that contributed the most to the a new colony. " A descri name and fame of Oregon, was 'The Traveling Nursery' brought edge by Thornton of '47 across the plains by the late Henderson Luelling in 1847. 'If a man made is a benefactor to his race who makes two spears of grass grow where public until long af one grew before, what is he to his State who makes luscious pears, agrees closely. He says: cherries, plums and apples grow where only poor seedlings, or none, health. Some were acti grew before' ...... That load of trees contained health, wealth and comfort, for the old pioneers of Oregon." [They were brought change; many more by a,, planted in light boxes, about seven hundred trees and shrubs, from ture; and a few, I believe, THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 411

Three days before we got to twenty inches to four feet high each, requiring to be watered and ive of Elias Brown, who died protected on the entire journey, and taken up and wrapped at the ther of J. Henry Brown, our D)alles for the transit down the Columbia. A remarkable under- wn's History of Oregon]. At taking.] '. W. Geer, of Butteville, who Mr. Geer concludes: " Excuse me when I tell you that I brought [ountains and what we had to one bushel of apple and one-half bushel of pear seeds, which went far ituation then, but did after- toward supplying this coast with trees, especially pear trees, for I furnished Luelling with stock and he furnished me with buds from I by the introduction of fine his traveling nursery, which enabled both of us to furnish cultivated ing pioneers of that year of trees at an early day, and certainly that traveling nursery was a ilson, as we used to call him, God-send to me and mine." iry Clay's herd at Blue Grass Joseph Carey Geer, father of the above, was an immigrant of that ht as fine mares as could be year; other sons, besides Ralph C., are F. W., J. C., Lucien and Benser brought a herd of fine Joel Palmer Geer. This is one of the typical old Oregon families, Columbia bottoms vastly. J. numbering at the death of the grandsire in 1881 one hundred and Henry Clay's favorite stock. sixty-seven. George that year [a record idustry received a big lift that As to antecedents and character of the emigrants fine sheep from Missouri and 7Valdo's. Fields and his wife to Oregon, Dr. Whitman wrote to the Secretary of measles. The sheep were sold War of those of 1843: " The emigrants are from to be superior sheep, to say different States, but principally from Missouri, Ar- Turpin and Johnson Mulkey kansas, Illinois, and New York. The majority of nearly, from a paper of pins these are farmers, lured by the prospect of govern- n's mill notoriety, in Missouri, .. Uncle Thomas Cox and ment bounty in lands, by the reported fertility of the Le store across the plains and soil, and by the desire to be among those who are Ih of Champoeg. William also planting our institutions upon the Pacific Coast. them and originated the cele- Dimick, the originator of the Among them, also, are artisans of every trade, com- of the Early Shaker Blue prising, with the farmers, the very best material for est undertaking, and one that Lt contributed the most to the a new colony. " A description from personal knowl- ! Traveling Nursery' brought edge by Thornton of '47-Whitman's letter was not n Luelling in 1847. If a man made public until long after Thornton penned this- wo spears of grass grow where Ate who makes luscious pears, agrees closely. He says: " Many were in pursuit of only poor seedlings, or none, health. Some were actuated by the mere love of trees contained health, wealth )regon." [They were brought change; many more by a spirit of enterprise and ven- mdred trees and shrubs, from ture; and a few, I believe, knew not exactly why they -, fl3rt IEi1L17

412 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST. were thus on the road. With these reasons was, more ginia and the Carolinas or less, mixed up a very important element-a desire with whose character to occupy the country as a basis of title in the dis- clearly apprehended the pute between the Government of the United States travel, without roads o: and that of Great Britain. . . . Nor were the peo- repairs, or towns for th ple less different in their general appearance, man- short. They saw plair ners, education, and principles. There were repre- with wagons loaded for I sentatives from nearly all the States from Maine to ting through before wi Missouri, and from the great lakes in the North to having passed the Roc] the greater gulf in the South. The majority, how- desert plain, extended f ever, were plain, honest, substantial, enterprising, and Rockies, only to bring of good principles. They were, indeed, very much Cascade range, which superior to those who generally settled a new coun- steeper in its approach try, and they were for the most part persons, the the principal forms of loss of whom was felt and regretted by those they up the outlook of the i left behind." forties, one must be In a brief paper published in the Oregon Historical than all the rest-the ct Quarterly of March, 1900, Professor Thomas Con- attack. Such was the df don treats of the pioneer movement across the land presented to the n plains from Missouri to Oregon as a process of tier, who yet waited rE selection. In indicating a basis here for the op- try it. eration of this principle he says: " Let us now " Now, in spite of all turn to the restless people of the frontier who wagon trains were orgar wanted to go to Oregon, and inquire what their precious burdens of lif mental picture of the great barriers of the journey mountain chains and the was. At this time, 1842, these restless people might tween them; did reach be found from Eastern Tennessee to Western Mis- remains the inquiry: V souri. In their view the Rocky Mountain barrier was they who dared to do t not a single line of mountains, but a complex system coming of the women a] of ranges like the one that separated Eastern Vir- wagon trains that won I'F

THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 413 i i! I these reasons was, more ginia and the Carolinas from the valley of the Ohio, rtant element-a desire with whose character they were familiar. They asis of title in the dis- clearly apprehended the difficulties of such mountain Lt of the United States travel, without roads or bridges, without shops for Nor were the peo- repairs, or towns for the repurchase of supplies run neral appearance, man- short. They saw plainly the necessity of starting es. There were repre- with wagons loaded for the whole journey, and of get- e States from Maine to ting through before winter. They knew, too, that t lakes in the North to having passed the Rocky Mountain barrier, a vast Li. The majority, how- desert plain, extended from the western slope of the antial, enterprising, and Rockies, only to bring them to another barrier, the ere, indeed, very much Cascade range, which if not higher was at least lly settled a new coun- steeper in its approaches. .. . In naming over most part persons, the the principal forms of danger that went to make egretted by those they up the outlook of the road to Oregon in the early forties, one must be named-one more dreaded in the Oregon Hi8torical than all the rest-the continued exposure to Indian professor Thomas Con- attack. Such was the dark picture the journey over- movement across the land presented to the men and women of the fron- regon as a process of tier, who yet waited restlessly for their chance to basis here for the op- try it. says: " Let us now " Now, in spite of all these dangers of the way, the of the frontier who wagon trains were organized; were loaded with their Lnd inquire what their precious burdens of life and hope, did cross these barriers of the journey mountain chains and the long stretches of desert be- Be restless people might tween them; did reach and people Oregon. There lessee to Western Mis- remains the inquiry: What manner of people were :y Mountain barrier was they who dared to do this? For surely it was the s, but a complex system coming of the women and children of these pioneer separated Eastern Vir- wagon trains that won Oregon for the Stars and pw_ - , -- - I sr 0 I I

414 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST)

Stripes." He thus summarizes the conclusion of his agencies excluding the u inquiry: pioneers. In a further d " We have thus forced upon us the conviction that Association, Professor 1 the pioneer migration across the plains to Oregon discipline of the movesn consisted almost wholly of frontier people; that from the valuable effects of , their organized trains the rich excluded themselves; fused the heterogeneous the dependent poor were kept aloof, and those sub- characterized by singul ject to chronic sickness or feeble health at once ac- local spirit, and strong s cepted the inevitable conclusion. Now with these in- The estimate placed by eligible groups cancelled we may well ask, Who were services of the pioneers t left to go to Oregon? Well, the proposed migration tion, will undoubtedly b thus shorn of elements that did not fit the heart of -( Numb( the movement, there remained scattered along the terly, December, 1900): frontier several thousands of the very material for oneers not only gained pioneering. Men in the prime of life with small fam- for the American peor ilies, who were themselves accustomed to the man- but their movement op agement of teams; were familiar with desert travel can occupation, and in and mountain climbing; were accustomed to Indian cupation of that realm alarms, many of them to Indian fighting; and all of They moved across the them accustomed from childhood to the use of the time, and so were able to rifle-these were restlessly waiting the time for move- the course of great events ment. " the American dominion c As the later emigrations continued, considerable done so quietly, so efficiE deductions must be made from the element of selec- small cost, that the world tion as excluding the sick and feeble. Not only was mentous results with a c it sought by many intending emigrants to escape the quate. As the American I malaria of the Mississippi Valley, but even consump- their distinctively national tion. It was on this account that the brilliant family to that of maintaining a n of the Simpson's came to Oregon; but the rule holds, that of preempting and s notwithstanding increasing exceptions of each of the minion and home for a ci- rHE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 415 s the conclusion of his agencies excluding the unfavorable from the Oregon pioneers. In a further discussion before the Pioneer us the conviction that Association, Professor Condon has shown that the the plains to Oregon discipline of the movement across the plains had all Ltier people; that from the valuable effects of a long military period, and Lexcluded themselves; fused the heterogeneous elements into one people, aloof, and those sub- characterized by singular liberality, national and fble health at once ac- local spirit, and strong sentiments of humanity. a. Now with these in- The estimate placed by Professor Young upon the Ey well ask, Who were services of the pioneers to their country and civiliza- ie proposed migration tion, will undoubtedly be that of history. He says id not fit the heart of - (Oregon Trail Number Oregon Historical Quar- I scattered along the terly, December, 1900): " The early Oregon pi- the very material for oneers not only gained the first secure foothold of life with small fam- for the American people on the Pacific Coast, austomed to the man- but their movement opened the way to Ameri- Liar with desert travel can occupation, and in itself counted as an oc- accustomed to Indian cupation of that realm for American civilization. 1n fighting; and all of They moved across the continent at an auspicious Dod to the use of the time, and so were able to influence, if not to shape, ing the time for move- the course of great events touching the widening of the American dominion on the Pacific. It was all )ntinued, considerable done so quietly, so efficiently, at so comparatively E the element of selec- small cost, that the world has yet to connect the mo- feeble. Not only was mentous results with a cause seemingly so inade- nigrants to escape the quate. As the American people come to realize that ey, but even consump- their distinctively national achievement so far, next at the brilliant family to that of maintaining a national integrity, has been )n; but the rule holds, that of preempting and subduing an adequate do- eptions of each of the minion and home for a civilization, they will revere I

416 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA' the services of those who made the transcontinental there is much reason to apprehen, from an American newspaper: " migrations in the thirties, forties and fifties. The settled, and so will we have soon glory that belongs to the participants in those mi- men are fast establishing them soon constitute the surest right grations is the peculiar birthright of the patriotic This alludes to a settlement mai Oregonian. The passage from the Atlantic slope to Pacific. on the banks of the Willh the Pacific of these first American households bear- unpardonable oversight of the lo, missionaries from the United St ing the best embers of Western civilization must ever charge of the population, and t1 stand as a momentous event in the annals of time." troducing such a number of thi fluence of the small number of c As a fine tribute to these pioneers the following is cance." It was in accord with a cited from an address of Elwood Evans, inserting directors, probably, to correct t also the spirited stanza quoted by him: " Surely religious charge of the populati( favor of American occupancy, wa these children of the great republic, though at the time rejected by their country and sometimes de- rided for their singleness of purpose in Americaniz- ing this region, have earned and secured a lasting, living, brilliant page in history:

"'Upbearing, like the ark of God The Bible in their van, They went to test the truth of God Against the fraud of man. They trod the prairie as of old Their fathers sailed the sea, And made the West, as they the East, The Homestead of the Free."'

The January number, 1843, of Fisher's Colonial Magazine- British-contained the following reference to the disposition of the British population of Oregon to hold the country for England, the efforts of Americans to settle the Willamette, and the mistake of the Hudson's Bay Company in allowing American missionaries in Ore- gon: "Any demonstration in the maintenance of our rights would be well supported by members of the present population, originating in the race that constituted the servants of the Hudson's Bay and Northwest Companies. That such a contingency may soon arise [vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 417 aade the transcontinental there is much reason to apprehend, as disclosed by the following item from an forties and fifties. American newspaper: 'We have the Northeastern boundary The settled, and so will we have soon the Northwestern, for our country- Participants in those mi- men are fast establishing themselves in that country, which will rthright of the patriotic soon constitute the surest rights of possession and the best title.' This alludes to a settlement made about a hundred miles from the ~om the Atlantic slope to Pacific, on the banks of the Willamette. . .. . By a strange and nerican households bear- unpardonable oversight of the local officers of the company (H. B.) ern missionaries from the United States were allowed to take religious civilization must ever charge of the population, and these artful men lost no time in in- t in the annals of time." troducing such a number of their countrymen as reduced the in- pioneers the following is fluence of the small number of original British settlers to insignifi- cance." It was in accord with a purpose on the part of the London Elwood Evans, inserting directors, probably, to correct the error of the local officers, that Loted by him: " Surely religious charge of the population by a clergy, not prepossessed in favor of American occupancy, was encouraged. republic, though at the ntry and sometimes de- purpose in Americaniz- d and secured a lasting, )ry: e ark of God eir van, ;he truth of God d of man. rie as of old iled the sea, L, as they the East, df the Free.'"

Fisher's Colonial Magazine- erence to the disposition of the d the country for England, the Ilamette, and the mistake of the American missionaries in Ore- iaintenance of our rights would present population, originating Vants of the Hudson's Bay and a contingency may soon arise [voI. 3]

. CHAP'

CATHOL CHAPTER XIV

CATHOLIC MISSIONS W. ' -

tISSIONAIM Indians of the C thirties, their con thousands. The methods been in vogue since the undertaken Christianizii America on the banks images, pictures, and ceri the immature mind of a most effectually reached. baptisms, the cross, anc latter being invested ii Blanchet with almost me tory influence. The gre among the Flatheads, Washington Indians, th portion of both the Cayi the spirit of these missii and that the intention was from the Protestant fail already, more or less, att, in the picturesque accoun it was the most aggres Church-the Jesuits-ti While it could hardly be unfortunate if the Oreg jority of the Oregon pop to the tenets and forms M/ ISSIONARY work among the Oregon Indians was undertaken by fathers of the Catholic Church in the late thirties, and at the end of ten years their converts were numbered by the thousands. The methods employed were such as had been in vogue since the priests of this church had undertaken Christianizing the natives of North America on the banks of the St. Lawrence. By images, pictures, and ceremonies it was thought that the immature mind of a primitive people might be most effectually reached. Much stress was laid upon baptisms, the cross, and the ringing of bells-the latter being invested in the accounts of Father Blanchet with almost medieval solemnity and salva- tory influence. The greatest success was attained among the Flatheads, the Cowlitz and western Washington Indians, the Yakimas, and among a portion of both the Cayuses and Nez Perces. That the spirit of these missions was strongly sectarian, and that the intention was to win the Indians entirely from the Protestant faith, to which they had been already, more or less, attached, is not at all concealed in the picturesque accounts given by the priests; and it was the most aggressive order of the Catholic Church-the Jesuits-that began these missions. While it could hardly be regarded as otherwise than unfortunate if the Oregon tribes, or any great ma- jority of the Oregon population, had been converted to the tenets and forms of the Catholic Church-or 422 TiHE GROWTH OF at least exclusively so-the efforts of these enthu- siastic missionaries brought elements of strength, as well as variety of character to the young common- wealth. A considerable number of the most brilliant and useful men in the country became identified with the Catholic Church. Among these were McLough- lin, Pambrun and Burnett; Le Breton, Foisy, and Matthieu were of Catholic education. The greater portion of the Canadian population, originally Cath- olic, returned to the forms of their church, and probably found in them a religious element that had not been understood by them in the evangelistic or doctrinal religion of the Protestants. That the ef- fects of the Catholic teaching were more salutary upon the Indians than had been those of the Protes- tant, as has been contended by a number of historians of this State, may be doubted. The Nez Perces and Spokanes, who had been longest under Protestant in- fluences, remained firm friends to the Americans. The Wascos, although divided in sentiment during the Cayuse War, gave the Americans but little trouble. Some, as Seletza, were fast friends. The Protestant Cayuses, as Isticcus, remained friends. The Yaki- mas, who were more immediately under the Catholic influence, became resolute opponents of civilization. The Molallas, Klamaths, and Rogue River Indians, and the Shastas of California, who had been left en- tirely to their native Indian beliefs, remained im- placable enemies of the Americans. Judged by this result it would seem, therefore, that the Protestant

CATHO Bishop A. M. A. Blanchel , Pioneer, 1847. Archbisho Rev. J. B. A. Bronillot, Pioneer, 1847. THE GROWTH OF e efforts of these enthu- t elements of strength, as ,r to the young common-I nber of the most brilliant Ury became identified with rng these were McLough- Le Breton, Foisy, and education. The greater pulation, originally Cath- is of their church, and eligious element that had ,m in the evangelistic or rotestants. That the ef- Ling were more salutary been those of the Protes- )y a number of historians ed. The Nez Perces and gest under Protestant in- iends to the Americans. ded in sentiment during iericans but little trouble. friends. The Protestant ned friends. The Yaki- iately under the Catholic pponents of civilization. id Rogue River Indians, la, who had been left en- n beliefs, remained im- aricans. Judged by this 'ore, that the Protestant

CATHOLIC MISSIONARIES Biehop A. Xi A. Blanebet. Her. Pierre J De Sniet, IPionleer, 18T Pious"w, I0.& Arribishop Wtsuds N. lilanebet, Rev. J. IL. A. Brounlipt. Pioneer, 1838 Bishop Miodeaft Darner. Plafter, 184T. Pioneer, ISS&

AN AMERICAN STATE 423 missionaries had the greatest success in modifying the natural aversion with which the Indians would regard the advance of a people whose customs and modes of life were unlike their own. The first of the Catholic clergy to arrive in Oregon was Father Blanchet, who crossed the Rocky Moun- tains between the stupendous heights of Mount Hooker and Mount Brown, by the grandeur of whose appearance he was profoundly impressed, and has left in his journal a valuable description. This was in 1838. He undertook work in the Cowlitz Valley, and among the mixed population of French Prairie, the mission at St. Paul du Willamette being one of the most permanent results of his labors. This was the beginning of the large institution at Mount Angel, a short distance eastward. The pioneer of the Catholic missions in eastern Oregon was P. J. De Smet, of the Society of Jesus. He came from St. Louis in 1841 to the Flatheads, or Kalispels, by whom he was received with great kind- ness, and within a short time he won their hearts, and one is deeply touched by the generous and hu- mane sentiments of this devoted father. Entering into the feelings of his wild children, and making no attempt to change their nomadic customs, and readily encouraging the belief among them that the presence of the " Black Gown " gave them invulnerability from their dreaded enemies, the Blackfeet, he still persuaded them that the Blackfeet, too, were children of the one God, and gained their consent that he - Ple--- ai j arn.¶..-j ..

424 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA preach among these their hereditary foes. In 1842 harbor, and the wind fail De Smet made a trip to Vancouver with Factor set well within Point Ad; Ogden, and purchased supplies. It seems hardly and sisters gathered arc doubtful that the Hudson's Bay Company sought when they would cross rather to encourage the Catholic than the Protestant swered, " we have alread missionaries. In August of 1842 Langlois and Bol- the harbor." De Smet 4 duc, also Catholic missionaries, arrived by sea; to the pilotage of angels, probably in a Hudson's Bay Company vessel. In and again in his pious i 1843 Father Demers, of the Jesuit Society, arrived, Brouillet, Vicar General with two other priests and three laymen, and estab- lished missions among t lished a mission in the Colville district. uses. He was present at I In the meantime De Smet returned to Europe and the massacre, and meeti obtained a considerable reenforcement, consisting be- rections bywhich the neai sides priests, of a considerable company of sisters, a man might reach his ow part of whom were destined for the St. Paul mission, Despite this act of genei recently established on French Prairie, at the place forego his friendly relat still known by that name, and still a center of Cath- baptized their children, a olic education. He arrived in August of 1844, in a of their country by the tr Belgian brig named "The Indefatigable." On government. reaching the bar of the Columbia, which had been Like many other pass greatly dreaded by all the voyagers, the vessel slipped however, this awaits fu in through a channel not hitherto known, which was final conclusions should thus first discovered as the South Channel. The Church in Oregon, as eve course of this vessel was noticed by a party of Amer- of affording its instructic icans, among whom was J. W. Nesmith, on a visit to conditions, and showed a Astoria; but by Shortess, who understood the chan- lowers of Loyola and Xax nels, it was at first denied that a vessel could be in the waters of the Columbi that position, and then declared that if so she would The following from the report soon run aground. But she continued her course sub-Indian agent, in regard to th sociates, is highly appreciative: and came over a smooth sea into a calm but unknown ciates, though zealous Catholics, THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 425 reditary foes. In 1842 harbor, and the wind failing, dropped anchor at sun- rancouver with Factor set well within Point Adams. The anxious brothers plies. It seems hardly and sisters gathered around the captain and asked Bay Company sought when they would cross the bar. " Bah," he an- lic than the Protestant swered, " we have already crossed it; we are now in 1842 Langlois and Bol- the harbor." IDe Smet did not forget to refer this ries, arrived by sea; to the pilotage of angels, and this is mentioned again T Company vessel. In and again in his pious musings. In 1847 J. B. A. Jesuit Society, arrived, Brouillet, Vicar General of the Walla Walla, estab- tree laymen, and estab- lished missions among the Walla Wallas and Cay- e district. uses. He was present at Waiilatpu the morning after 'eturned to Europe and the massacre, and meeting Spalding gave him di- xrcement, consisting be- rections bywhich the nearlycrazed associate of Whit- e company of sisters, a man might reach his own mission on the Lapwai. )r the St. Paul mission, Despite this act of generosity, however, he did not h Prairie, at the place forego his friendly relations with the Cayuses, but still a center of Cath- baptized their children, and deprecated the invasion iAugust of 1844, in a of their country by the troops of the Oregon pioneer Indefatigable. " On government. mbia, which had been Like many other passages in our early history, gers, the vessel slipped however, this awaits further investigation before *rto known, which was final conclusions should be drawn. The Catholic South Channel. The Church in Oregon, as everywhere, merits the praise d by a party of Amer- of affording its instructions to men of all races and Nesmith, on a visit to conditions, and showed a zeal well worthy of the fol- understood the chan- lowers of Loyola and Xavier to plant the cross upon Lt a vessel could be in the waters of the Columbia. d that if so she would The following from the report of Dr. Elijah White, of 1843, as continued her course sub-Indian agent, in regard to the work of Father Blanchet and as- to a calm but unknown sociates, is highly appreciative: " The Rev. Mr. Blanchet, and asso- ciates, though zealous Catholics, are peaceable, industrious, inde- ---e W-F rerekI

426 GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE

fatigable and successful in promoting religious knowledge among the CHAPT Canadian population and aborigines of this country. Their enter- prise in erecting mills and other public works is very commendable, and the general industry, good order and correct habits of the por- CONSUM tion of the population under their charge is sufficient proof that their influence over their people has been exerted for good." A much studied and truly liberal opinion as to the connection between the Catholic missions and the Whitman massacre has been thus expressed by H. K. Hines in his Missionary History: " It should not escape statement, however, that it was only a portion of the Cayuse tribe that was engaged in the fearful mur- derous tragedy that thus ended these missions (of the American Board). For many years these causes were much discussed. Some writers, among whom W. H. Gray, who was connected with the mis- sion of Dr. Whitman and Mr. Spalding as secular agent from their beginning until the spring of 1843, was most prominent, charged it almost entirely upon the influence of the Catholic missionaries, and what he conceived to be their matured intention of striving to drive the Protestant mission out of the country at any sacrifice, abetted and encouraged by the Hudson's Bay Company, for the pur- pose of destroying their influence in favor of the United States then going on for the ownership of the country. The consensus of later and calmer judgment, however, has been that, while the presence of the Roman Catholic missionaries in the country, with their always unrelenting and unconcealed opposition to Protestantism, had a strong influence on many of the Indians against the missions and the missionaries, they did not seek nor advise the destruction of the mission in that awful way...... After many years of examina- tion ...... such seems to us to be the most reasonable conclu- sion." The complete history of the Catholic missions on the North Pacific Coast, and descriptions of their adventures and characters, will afford a new series to a delineator of the genius of Parkman. Their preference for British control was frank and not concealed, but as stated by Blanchet, their acquiescence in the result was also hearty and without reservation. Their settlements and missions have af- forded Oregon some of its best citizens, protection during Indian wars, and their institutions of learning and churches flourish side by side with those of other Christians; and their charities, here as elsewhere, are very great. They enjoy their full share in the strength and honor of Oregon. l

LMERICAN STATE igious knowledge among the CHAPTER XV this country. Their enter- works is very commendable, d correct habits of the por- CONSUMMATION is sufficient proof that their -ted for good." minion as to the connection Vhitman massacre has been 3sionary History: wever, that it was only a ngaged in the fearful mur- missions (of the American vere much discussed. Some vas connected with the mis- as secular agent from their most prominent, charged it the Catholic missionaries, red intention of striving to e country at any sacrifice, Bay Company, for the pur- r of the United States then ry. The consensus of later that, while the presence of country, with their always L to Protestantism, had a tgainst the missions and the vise the destruction of the ter many years of examina- the most reasonable conclu- issions on the North Pacific itures and characters, will genius of Parkman. Their and not concealed, but as the result was also hearty ents and missions have af- , protection during Indian and churches flourish side and their charities, here as ir full share in the strength

a W55--,

THHE negotiatic tration with ary, R. PakE Calhoun ma ferences, th September 24, 1844, that States, both on her own those of Spain, were good grees, 40 minutes, and dee] the Columbia proposed byl resumed until July 16th of was under the new admini, Polk, who was elected on tl Texas. It would naturally mand to Fifty-four Forty But James Buchanan, Secrn review of the subject, anc claimed, proposed the line cific. His reason for doing the claim of the United S owing to the acts of his pr the opinion of the Presid of the United States [tha would not have consented t Oregon Territory had he i rassed, if not committed, b; sors. They had uniformly ciple of compromise. . . structed the undersigned t ment of Great Britain th THHE negotiations of the Tyler adminis- tration with the British plenipotenti- ary, R. Pakenham, were terminated by Calhoun nmaintaining through six con- ferences, the last of which was held September 24, 1844, that the claim of the United States, both on her own discoveries and acquiring those of Spain, were good to the Russian line, 54 de- grees, 40 minutes, and declining to accept the line of the Columbia proposed bytheBritish. These werenot resumed until July 16th of the next year, 1845. This was under the new administration, that of James K. Polk, who was elected on the platform of Oregon and Texas. It would naturally be expected that the de- mand to Fifty-four Forty would be made by Polk. But James Buchanan, Secretary of State, in a lengthy review of the subject, and reaffirming all that was claimed, proposed the line of Forty-nine to the Pa- cific. His reason for doing so was not to allow that the claim of the United States was not ample, but owing to the acts of his predecessors. " Such being the opinion of the President in regard to the title of the United States [that it was good to all], he would not have consented to yield any portion of the Oregon Territory had he not found himself embar- rassed, if not committed, by the acts of his predeces- sors. They had uniformly proceeded upon the prin- ciple of compromise. . . . He has therefore in- structed the undersigned to propose to the Govern- ment of Great Britain that the Oregon Territory 2IL- ,V-

430 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN ST shall be divided between the two countries by the To this pointblank 49th parallel of latitude from the Rocky Mountains fusal to accept the Ai to the Pacific; offering at the same time to make on the following day, X free to Great Britain any port or ports she may de- reply, showing that the sire on Vancouver's Islands, south of that line." as to allow settlement To this Pakenham made a long reply, contending British subjects und that the Nootka treaty did. act as a bar to the United and that this conventio States urging the Spanish title, or if her claims were subsequently to the treE allowed the United States had been an intruder in by acquiring the right pursuing her own discoveries, and claimed that the had cured any defects independent discoveries of the British at least reminded the British equalled those of the Americans. He made the dis- Spanish rights had no paraging comparison between the discoveries of Rob- that the United States I ert Gray and those of Vancouver: " It must be re- in 1819 had maintained marked that he [Robert Gray] was a private navi- gon were good as again gator, sailing principally for the purpose of trade, States was therefore r which fact establishes a wide difference in a national Spanish title and right point of view between the discoveries accomplished with all that had since by him and those effected by Cook and Vancouver, He fittingly noticed th who sailed in ships of the royal navy of Great Brit- made between the disco ain." He noticed also that the proposal of the free saying, " a merchant v navigation of the Columbia was not made, and the country at the masthe ports on Vancouver's Island would be of no value stances the undersigned and concluded by rejecting the offer, saying: " The dent to say that he owe' undersigned, therefore, trusts that the American just appreciation of he plenipotentiary will be prepared to offer some fur- tory, to withdraw the pi ther proposal for the settlement of the Oregon ques- ernment which had beE tion more consistent with fairness and equity, and and it is hereby accordi within the reasonable expectation of the British Gov- That Pakenham shot ernment. " the administration wit] 431 AN AMERICAN STATE THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 431

two countries by the To this pointblank and all but discourteous re- the Rocky Mountains fusal to accept the American proposals, Buchanan ie same time to make on the following day, August 30th, made a vigorous t or ports she may de- reply, showing that the Spanish claims were not such 3outh of that line." as to allow settlement or acquisition of territory by long reply, contending British subjects under the Nootka convention, as a bar to the United and that this convention had been abrogated by war ^, or if her claims were subsequently to the treaty and not renewed; and that d been an intruder in by acquiring the rights of Spain the United States and claimed that the had cured any defects of title as against Spain and the British at least reminded the British plenipotentiary that these Lns. He made the dis- Spanish rights had not gone to Great Britain, and the discoveries of Rob- that the United States prior to the treaty with Spain ver: " It must be re- in 1819 had maintained simply that her rights to Ore- ,] was a private navi- gon were good as against Great Britain. The United the purpose of trade, States was therefore prepared to reanimate all the Difference in a national Spanish title and rights and to enforce these along ;coveries accomplished with all that had since been acquired by Americans. Cook and Vancouver, He fittingly noticed the distinction that the Briton al navy of Great Brit- made between the discovery of Vancouver and Gray, Le proposal of the free saying, " a merchant vessel bears the colors of her vas not made, and the country at the masthead." " Under such circum- would be of no value stances the undersigned is instructed by the Presi- ,offer, saying: " The dent to say that he owes it to his own country, and a ;s that the American just appreciation of her title to the Oregon Terri- red to offer some fur- tory, to withdraw the proposition to the British Gov- at of the Oregon ques- ernment which had been made under his direction, rness and equity, and and it is hereby accordingly withdrawn. " ion of the British Gov- That Pakenham should have refused the offer of the administration without even referring it to his 432 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA government, and that in harsh terms, shows how near together against the extra he felt his country would be to hold Oregon to the convention and the West Columbia River by forcible means, and how great never approved the claim value was placed upon it. With Buchanan's reply ring to him somewhat co the negotiation was ended. justly as " a clerk in the The bold stand taken by Buchanan was not his own, of Buchanan, who folloi but Polk's, and much effort was brought to induce the and made short work of President to propose a modified line. The Demo- sidered that her rights b cratic party, or the influential element from the South, and could not be reanin had cared for the election, rather than for Oregon. Historically he would g, They expected to fight Mexico, and did not care to lines drawn in 1713, at tl fight England at the same time. Moreover, they the line of Forty-nine, probably had a just fear that to bring in so great a southern line of the Brit territory as all Oregon to the north, whose people had the approval of Geo] had alreadyadopted the ordinance of 1787,wouldgive tion of what was known a the free States preponderance of power. But Polk the boundary which was was inflexible. Nevertheless he was soon in a posi- ing Canada in 1763. Th tion requiring him to consult the Southern Demo- over, had had the sanctic crats and the Whigs. The three great leaders of that land, Russia, and the Un now departed political organization were Webster in and was proposed as the the East, whose Oregon policy, as seen before, under claim in the triple divis Tyler had all but yielded all of Oregon that she want- northwest Pacific- south ed to Great Britain; Henry Clay in the middle South, States, north of this li who had just been defeated by Polk chiefly on the England, and north of I issue of national expansion in the Southwest and the But altogether beyond Northwest; and Benton, in the West, who had for placed the rights of setti nearly twenty years been the champion of Oregon in title than that " (the Sp the United States Senate. These leaders, together Buchanan long before in with Calhoun and Colquitt, and other senators from fled the country." So i the southeast Atlantic States, were ready to stand later speech-" All thes [Vol. 3] THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 433

terms, shows how near together against the extreme claims of the Baltimore to hold Oregon to the convention and the Western Democrats. Benton had means, and how great never approved the claims made by Greenhow, refer- Vith Buchanan's reply ring to him somewhat contemptuously and quite un- justly as " a clerk in the department of State "; or hanan was not his own, of Buchanan, who followed Greenhow's reasoning; s brought to induce the and made short work of the Spanish title, and con- fled line. The Demo- sidered that her rights had long since been defunct. lement from the South, and could not be reanimated by the United States. ther than for Oregon. Historically he would go back no further than the i, and did not care to lines drawn in 1713, at the treaty of Utrecht, making ime. Moreover, they the line of Forty-nine, indefinitely westward, the to bring in so great a southern line of the British claim in America, which north, whose people had the approval of George III, and was a continua- nce of 1787,wouldgive tion of what was known as " Oswald's line, " defining of power. But Polk the boundary which was chiefly followed in segregat- te was soon in a posi- ing Canada in 1763. This line of Forty-nine, more- the Southern Demo- over, had had the sanction of the three powers, Eng- e great leaders of that land, Russia, and the United States, in 1824 and '25, ation were Webster in and was proposed as the north line of the American as seen before, under claim in the triple division of the territory on the Oregon that she want- northwest Pacific-south of Forty-nine to the United y in the middle South, States, north of this line to Fifty-four Forty to y Polk chiefly on the England, and north of Fifty-four Forty to Russia. ;he Southwest and the But altogether beyond fading historical claims he e West, who had for placed the rights of settlement. " We have a better iampion of Oregon in title than that " (the Spanish Claim) he had said to Lese leaders, together Buchanan long before in the Senate: " We have set- I other senators from tled the country." So now he said-as shown in a were ready to stand later speech-" All these offers " (of Monzoe and [Vol. 3] I -.-

7- I

434 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STI

Jefferson) " leave Fraser's River and Valley to the communicated to Englai British, because they discovered and settled it; and quitt. all these offers hold on to the Columbia River and By the offer, however Valley because we discovered and settled it... . embarrassed in a party For my part I thought they were right then and pelled, if he accepted, t think so now. . . . I thought New Caledonia platform, and acknowled belonged to the British, and thinking so still, but a bit of bravado. I and acting upon the first half of the great his confidence, he decidE maxim-asking nothing but what is right-I shall to the Senate for advice not ask them for it, much less fight them for he found in Washingtor it now. ' known that the Southern The persistent British demand to the Columbia was the Whigs and accept th even thus an encroachment upon ancient right, and an tion authorizing the Prei effort to secure, as stated by Dunn, all the best in- gation of joint occupa lets and to be able to monopolize the trade of the Pa- House February 9th, E cific. But the Whigs had no desire for war with Eng- May 18th Aberdeen dire land; nor did the moderate party in England wish to line that he had hastily fight the United States over what had been described the proposal was made i as "' a few square miles of territory," which would the Senate was at once E go to a monopoly not very well liked even in the Brit- given, that the British o: ish Parliament. General regret was expressed in was concluded and sign London that Pakenham had not referred Polk's offer 15th, and laid before th to the home government, SirRobert Peel being among firmed the 19th. Thoug the critics. By Lord Aberdeen, foreign secretary, Fight " faction of the D Pakenham was directed therefore to renew negotia- forts to cast the responm tions, and offer directly the line of Forty-nine to the dent the combination we main channel between the mainland and Vancouver's sary two-thirds vote wa: Island, and by the middle of that to the Pacific. That standing 38 to 12 for this the line Forty-nine would be accepted by President It can hardly be doubt( Polk, if offered by Great Britain, had been indirectly settled on principles of THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 435 iver and Valley to the communicated to England through Calhoun and Col- ed and settled it; and quitt. e Columbia River and By the offer, however, when it was made, he was and settled it.... embarrassed in a party point of view, being com- were right then and pelled, if he accepted, to go directly back upon his ought New Caledonia platform, and acknowledge that the Oregon plank was id thinking so still, but a bit of bravado. However, taking Benton into half of the great his confidence, he decided to refer the whole matter what is right-I shall to the Senate for advice-following a precedent that less fight them for he found in Washington's practice. It was already known that the Southern Democrats would unite with id to the Columbia was the Whigs and accept the British offer. The resolu- inancient right, and an tion authorizing the President to give notice of abro- Dunn, all the best in- gation of joint occupancy of Oregon passed the ze the trade of the Pa- House February 9th, and the Senate April 17th. sire for war with Eng- May 18th Aberdeen directed Pakenham to offer the rty in England wish to line that he had hastily rejected, and on June 10th hat had been described the proposal was made to the President. Advice of rritory," which would the Senate was at once asked, and on June 12th was liked even in the Brit- given, that the British offer be accepted. The treaty ret was expressed in was concluded and signed by the President on the t referred Polk's offer 15th, and laid before the Senate the 16th, and con- )bert Peel beingamong firmed the 19th. Though the " Fifty-four Forty or en, foreign secretary, Fight " faction of the Democrats made strenuous ef- rore to renew negotia- forts to cast the responsibility back upon the Presi- te of Forty-nine to the dent the combination was too strong, and the neces- iland and Vancouver's sary two-thirds vote was easily obtained-the ballot at to the Pacific. That standing 38 to 12 for this. accepted by President It can hardly be doubted that the question was thus in, had been indirectly settled on principles of substantial justice. Great 436 THE GROWTH OF Britain from the days of Drake and through com- mercial adventures had undoubtedly acquired some rights on the Pacific, both south and north of the line of Forty-nine; the United States had also acquired rights, which were of greater force as the manner of occupation which she maintained, that of actual set- tlement by families and self-governing communities, was of a much higher and more useful character than by simple commerce and trade. The American rights of discovery extended north of the line of Forty-nine. The British were rightly checked in their effort to gain the principal harbors and inlets of the whole re- gion, and both peoples were allowed by segregation of the Puget Sound Basin, as a part of that of the Co- lumbia, to have an equal chance on the Pacific Ocean, and to extend their influence over this greatest of the waters of the world as they might be able. The first news of the settlement seems to have reached Oregon by way of the Sandwich Islands, through the British admiral, and was communicated to Governor Abernethy by James Douglas in a char- acteristic British letter, intimating that England had been actuated by motives of generosity, rather than of forcible pressure, in dealing with his infant son. The letter was dated November 3, 1846, at Fort Van- couver to George Abernethy, Esq. (Mr. Douglas seeming to forget that Abernethywas then governor), and ran: " Dear Sir: Very important news for all parties in Oregon has just been received by the barque ' Tou- THE GROWTH OF of Drake and through com- undoubtedly acquired some h south and north of the line ;ed States had also acquired eater force as the manner of aintained, that of actual set- self-governing communities, d more useful character than trade. The American rights rth of the line of Forty-nine. y checked in their effort to rs and inlets of the whole re- vere allowed by segregation l, as a part of that of the Co- chance on the Pacific Ocean, *nce over this greatest of the Ley might be able. settlement3 seems to have of the Sandwich Islands, iral, and was communicated )y James Douglas in a char- utimating that England had 3 of generosity, rather than iealing with his infant son. 'ember 3, 1846, at Fort Van- nethy, Esq. (Mr. Douglas 'ernethywasortanteceived bynews11 I the then- for ,barque - ,governor), Iall-- , .parties'___ Tou- - _" _ I - ..

AN AMERICAN STATE 437

Ion,' from the Sandwich Islands. It appears that the boundary question is finally and fully settled. This intelligence rests on the authority of Sir George Seymour [Douglas is careful to remember an Eng- lishman's titles], the British commander-in-chief, and I think may be relied upon. ... The British Government has surrendered more than strict justice required; but John Bull is generous, and was bound to be something more than just to his promising son Jonathan, who will no doubt make a good use of the gift. At all events I am glad to see this vexing ques- tion settled so quietly. The Hudson's Bay Company is fully protected in all its interests. " The supposition that Oregon was a gift from Eng. land to the United States was so naive and so com- pletely suited a Briton's unconscious egotism that it is hardly offensive, although quite amusing; and seems to have been taken in a spirit of entire good nature by Abernethy, who probably did not fail to notice with pleasure the acquiescence of the Hudson's Bay Company in the conclusion. By the election of 1846 George Abernethy became governor. The Legislature consisted of Hiram Straight, A. L. Lovejoy, William G. T'Vault from Clackamas County; Angus McDonald, A Chamber- lain, Robert Newell, Jesse Looney, from Champooic (Champoeg); George Simmons, from Clatsop; Jo- seph L. Meek, D. H. Lowndale, Lawrence Hall, from " Tuality "; J. E. Williams, John D. Boone, Polk; Thomas Jeffries, Absolom J. Hembree, and Henry M. 438 THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STA

Peers, from Yamhill; and Wm. F. Tolmie, from ance of unrest among the Lewis. ernor Abernethy to see In the election for Governor in 1847 there was a Washington and lay befo vigorous contest between Abernethy and Lovejoy, re- ation and needs of Orego sulting in the election of the former by a vote stand- ticularly induced by Ni ing 536 to 520. Lovejoy represented the more strict- Judge J. Quinn Thornton ly non-sectarian sentiment, while Abernethy retained accepted the trust, thougl the vote of the mission element. A burning question expenses. As the bark ' had been that of regulating the liquor traffic; which Ghelston, was about to s under the prohibitory law was said to be monopolized of flour was subscribed b and still carried on by the Hudson's Bay Company. the delegate's passage tc A law regulating the traffic by license had been vetoed for further means to con by Abernethy, but passed over his veto. portunely the United Si The Legislature consisted of M. Crawford, S. S. mouth " was found at ai White, J. M. Wair, Clackamas; A. Chamberlain, W. and Lieutenant Bartlett, i H. Rees, Robert Newell, W. H. Rector, Anderson to Ghelston, and finding Cox, from Champooic; S. Plamondeau, from Lewis; journey's end for the prei S. Peers, from Vancouver; J. L. Meek, David Hill, commander, Captain J. R. Wilcox, from Tuality; J. W. Nesmith, N. A. sidered this a circumstai Ford, from Polk; and L. A. Rice, Lewis Rogers, A. the Atlantic, and conveye( J. Hembree, A. D. Smith, from Yamhill. first Oregon delegate, or , " The year 1847 was one of remarkable prosperity the capital. This visit 4 so far as the material condition of the people was opportune; but not suff concerned, and as a very large immigration had ar- trouble fast rising with t rived, and the boundary question had been settled, The immigration of the high hopes were entertained that a territorial govern. tween four and five thousi ment would soon be established by the General Gov- Reeves-had been appoin ernment." Some disturbances from a number of the Columbia, and ships 4 Molalla Indians at a place called Battle Creek, and pacity had passed in and also at the Dalles by Wascos, and a general appear- was already founded, in , THE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 439

Vm. F. Tolmie, from ance of unrest among the upper river tribes led Gov- ernor Abernethy to seek some one to proceed to r in 1847 there was a Washington and lay before the Government the situ- nethy and Lovejoy, re- ation and needs of Oregon; to this he was more par- rmer by a vote stand- ticularly induced by Whitman. To this mission sented the more strict- Judge J. Quinn Thornton was appointed. He hastily ile Abernethy retained accepted the trust, though he had no means to pay his ;. A burning question expenses. As the bark " Whiton," Captain Roland e liquor traffic; which Ghelston, was about to sail, a considerable quantity said to be monopolized of flour was subscribed by the Oregon people to pay dson's Bay Company. the delegate's passage to California, and to be sold icense had been vetoed for further means to continue the journey. Very op- his veto. portunely the United States sloop-of-war " Ports- f M. Crawford, S. S. mouth " was found at anchor in California waters; ; A. Chamberlain, W. and Lieutenant Bartlett, of this vessel, paying a visit H. Rector, Anderson to Ghelston, and finding the Oregon delegate at his nondeau, from Lewis, journey's end for the present, reported the fact to the L. Meek, David Hill, commander, Captain J. B. Montgomery, who con- W. Nesmith, N. A. sidered this a circumstance warranting a return to ice, Lewis Rogers, A. the Atlantic, and conveyed to Boston, free of cost, this Yamhill. first Oregon delegate, or executive agent, that visited emarkable prosperity the capital. This visit of Thornton's proved very )n of the people was opportune; but not sufficiently early to arrest the immigration had ar- trouble fast rising with the Indians. ion had been settled, The immigration of the year was estimated as be- t a territorial govern, tween four and five thousand persons. A pilot-S. C. *by the General Gov- Reeves-had been appointed to service on the bar of 3 from a number of the Columbia, and ships of considerable carrying ca- ed Battle Creek, and pacity had passed in and out with safety. Portland nd a general appear- was already founded, in consequence of ships of too am-- - - I.-- -1 I

440 THE GROWTH OFA AN AMERICAN STAT

great a burthen to reach Oregon City coming into the strength in numbers and , Willamette and finding this the most convenient place she enjoyed in 1847. That to load. The "Whiton" was observed to lie alongside to Oregon will not at all b the bank, with a scaffolding made of poles from the fact that from Oregon have shore to the gunwales, and upon this extemporized rush to the California go] wharf the lading was easily passed to the deck. By bers of those who have I J. M. Shiveley, an immigrant of 1843, who had re- coast from California to A turned east for his family, and was now coming the older community some back to Oregon, a communication was brought to the that belongs to the older St Territory from President Polk, establishing a post office route, and the promise of a speedy organization of a territorial government; action necessary to which had been delayed in Congress by the progress and exigencies of the Mexican War, news of which had reached Oregon the previous season. General congratulation was felt over the settlement of the boundary dispute, and no community had more oc- casion to rise buoyantly with the prospect of a rapid and brilliant development. Two events, however, coming at almost the same time, tended to distract the young community, and for a time to retard its growth. The first of these was the outbreak of the Cayuse Indians; and the second the discovery of gold in California. By the first the powers of the Provisional Govern- ment were thoroughly tested, and the actual author- ity in Oregon demonstrated. By the second the cen- ter of population on the Pacific Coast was shifted to San Francisco Bay and not until recent years has the valley of the Columbia approached the relative [Vol. 3] rHE GROWTH OF AN AMERICAN STATE 441 n City coming into the strength in numbers and commercial activities that most convenient place she enjoyed in 1847. That this has been a detriment served to lie alongside to Oregon will not at all be intimated here; but the Lade of poles from the fact that from Oregon have gone, beginning with the 3on this extemporized rush to the California gold fields, very large num- issed to the deck. By bers of those who have peopled and exploited the of 1843, who had re- coast from California to Alaska, has impressed upon nd was now coming the older community something of the conservatism on was brought to the that belongs to the older States. k, establishing a post a speedy organization action necessary to Lgress by the progress LWar, news of which ious season. General the settlement of the imunity had more oc- he prospect of a rapid Pwo events, however, ne, tended to distract r a time to retard its Is the outbreak of the I the discovery of gold e Provisional Govern- md the actual author- 3y the second the cen- w Coast was shifted to ;il recent years has the iroached the relative [Vol. 3]