Miller County AK Genealogy – Access Genealogy

The Stokes Treaty Commission

The Arkansas Osage, relocated from their old home to the Verdigris, faced significant challenges in their adjustment and governance. Initially lacking an agent until 1822, they experienced several leadership changes due to tragic events, such as Nathaniel Philbrook’s drowning. Frequent conflicts necessitated annual conferences, culminating in treaties with the Creeks and Cherokees in 1831. The 1833 commission, led by Governor Stokes, sought to establish peace and reassign boundaries between tribes, but faced persistent opposition from influential Osage leaders like Clermont, complicating negotiations amid severe hardship within the tribe.

The Osage Massacre

In the summer of 1833, following a treaty council breakdown, Osage warriors attacked a Kiowa village, resulting in a brutal massacre where many women, children, and elderly were killed, and the heads of the victims displayed in brass buckets. Among the captives were two children, Gunpä´ñdamä and Tunkahtohye, later purchased by Colonel Hugh Love for potential diplomatic gains. The ensuing U.S. military expeditions aimed to restore order and negotiate peace, but many faced logistical challenges and poor preparation, resulting in numerous setbacks and casualties.