Santa Fe New Mexico Genealogy

Western Garrison Life

Holland Coffee, a trader at Fort Smith, led a trading expedition into western Indian territories alongside Robert M. French. They set up a trading post near the Red River, at the old Pawnee village, aiming to capitalize on friendly relations established by Colonel Dodge with western tribes. Despite challenges, including unrest among the tribes regarding treaty assurances, a significant conference was held at Fort Gibson in 1835, resulting in the first treaty with western prairie tribes, crucial for U.S. plans to relocate eastern Indians.

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.

Colonel Dodge Reaches Villages of Western Indians

General Leavenworth’s expedition to the Wichita country faced significant challenges, suffering from sickness among his men and horses, leading to a drastic reduction in their numbers. Upon reaching the Washita River, Colonel Dodge took command of the reorganized force, now diminished to 250 men. Their journey included encounters with Comanche tribes, where they sought to establish peace and facilitate trade. As the expedition progressed, the troops faced further hardships, including loss of supplies and sickness, ultimately culminating in a crucial meeting with the Wichita tribe to discuss treaties and exchanges.

Peace Attempts with Western Prairie Indians, 1833

In 1830, the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek initiated the relocation of the Choctaw Indians to territories between the Canadian and Red rivers. However, the Choctaw faced threats from Comanche, Kiowa, and Wichita tribes, who attacked traders and settlers. In May 1833, Colonel Arbuckle sent a military expedition to protect the traveling Choctaw and assert U.S. power. Despite efforts, the expedition suffered losses, including ranger George B. Abbay, who was captured, and ultimately failed to achieve its objectives, highlighting the challenges of westward expansion.

Washington Irving at Fort Gibson, 1832

The McIntosh Creeks established productive farms along the Arkansas River, but their land was mistakenly included in the 1828 treaty with the Cherokee, leading to tensions and grievances. The Creeks petitioned the government for aid against attacks from other Indian bands. In response, Congress set up a commission to address these issues, appointing three commissioners, including Montford Stokes. Eventually, Washington Irving joined the commission’s journey from St. Louis to Fort Gibson, experiencing the rich tapestry of frontier life and the challenges faced by the tribes.

Earliest Known Traders on Arkansas River

Before the Louisiana Purchase, early French traders, notably Joseph Bogy, ventured along the Arkansas River, engaging in commerce with local Indian tribes, such as the Osage. Bogy’s expeditions included confronting Choctaw opposition in 1807, leading to government claims for losses. Prominent figures included Nathaniel Pryor and A. P. Chouteau, who established trading posts at the mouth of the Verdigris. These traders influenced the region’s economy, exchanging goods like furs and providing items such as tobacco and tools to Native Americans, fostering significant cultural exchanges.

Establishment of Fort Gibson in 1824

The Arkansas Territory was established by Congress in 1819, encompassing parts of present-day Arkansas and Oklahoma, with governance limited to the eastern section. James Miller became its first governor in 1819, tasked with overseeing relations with Native tribes. Efforts to broker peace between the Osage and Cherokee tribes were largely unsuccessful, leading to military reinforcements at Fort Smith. In 1824, troops were moved to a new post, Cantonment Gibson, established to enhance security and regulate tensions, which would eventually evolve into Fort Gibson, founded in 1824.

Expeditions of Fowler and James to Santa Fe, 1821

Following Pike’s return from Santa Fe, interest surged for further exploration. In 1821, expeditions led by Major Jacob Fowler and General Thomas James departed towards Santa Fe after witnessing the impact of previous travelers’ accounts. Fowler’s party advanced from Fort Smith, while James’s group left St. Louis with a keel boat, trading goods with local tribes. Both parties faced significant challenges but eventually reached Santa Fe, paving the way for continued American trade in the region, culminating in further expeditions and encounters with the Comanche.

Kit Carson, His Life and Adventures – Indian Wars

Christopher “Kit” Carson, born on December 24, 1809, in Kentucky, grew up in the dangerous wilderness of Missouri, fostering his adventurous spirit. At age 12, he rescued bear cubs, showcasing his bravery. After abandoning a saddler’s apprenticeship for a life of exploration, he became skilled in woodcraft and hunting tactics. Carson served as a scout and guide, notably for Colonel J.C. Fremont, and gained fame for his exploits. He died in 1868, remembered as a legendary figure in American frontier history.

Indian Hostilities in California and New Mexico – Indian Wars

The condition of Indian tribes in California, particularly the Shoshonee, Blackfeet, and Crows, is dire, marked by hostility towards settlers, particularly in the Sierra Nevada region. Following the gold discovery, tensions erupted into violence as tribes attacked miners. This led to a declaration of war from settlers, resulting in numerous casualties among the Indians. In New Mexico, the Apache and Navajo tribes proved formidable, engaging in violent confrontations with U.S. troops, while the peaceful Pueblo and other tribes often fell victim to Apache raids.

Biographical Sketch of Luther C. Challis

Luther C. Challis, a pivotal figure in Atchison’s development, was born on January 26, 1829, in New Jersey. He moved west in 1855, becoming one of Atchison’s first merchants and later a banker. Notably, he played a crucial role in railroad expansion, authoring legislation for the Central Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad and negotiating land rights with the Kickapoo Indians. He was also involved in establishing the Atchison St. Joseph Railway and the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. Challis passed away on July 26, 1894.

Biography of William F. M. Arny

William F. M. Arny, born March 6, 1813, in Washington, D.C., emerged as a beloved figure in Kansas despite not being a native. After a notable role as a secretary for prominent preacher Alexander Campbell, he became an influential force in the Republican Party and settled in Kansas in 1857. Arny contributed significantly to the Leavenworth constitutional convention and managed relief efforts during the grasshopper plague. Appointed by Lincoln as secretary of New Mexico Territory, he died on September 18, 1881, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness and service.

Hirsh, Naome Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Naome Hirsh passed away on October 10, 1920, at the home of her daughter in Enterprise, Oregon. She had lived there for the past three years due to her long-term illness. Originally from Santa Fe, New Mexico, she leaves behind children in Wabash, Indiana, and Fargo, North Dakota. Following her death from a stroke, her body was transported to Wabash for burial, accompanied by her daughter, A.E. Clawson.

Biography of John P. Clum

John P. Clum, born in 1851 in New York, graduated from the Hudson River Institute and briefly attended Rutgers College before entering the meteorological service in 1871. He served effectively as the Indian Agent for the Apaches at San Carlos, notably capturing Geronimo in 1877. After moving into journalism, he edited the Tucson Citizen and the Tombstone Epitaph, and was also mayor of Tombstone. Clum’s later career included roles in Washington and a return to Tombstone as an auditor. He settled in San Bernardino, engaging in real estate, horticulture, and mineral exhibits.

The Ramona School

The Farm School

Beitz, Phyllis Ann Fisk Mrs. – Obituary

Phyllis Ann Beitz, 76, passed away on April 28, 2006, at St. Elizabeth Health Care Center in Pine Valley, Oregon. Born on September 30, 1928, she graduated from Halfway High School in 1946. Phyllis had a diverse career in aeronautics and engineering before returning to Halfway to care for her mother. She was actively involved in local community projects. Phyllis is survived by her sons, Michael and David, and numerous family members. Memorial contributions can be made to local charities.

Biography of Clayton A. Swiggett

Biography of Charles Trumbull Hayden

Charles Trumbull Hayden, born April 4, 1825, in Connecticut, significantly contributed to Arizona’s early history. After teaching school and engaging in trade, he ventured to Santa Fe in 1848, later moving to Tucson, where he established businesses and contracted supplies for the government. He played a vital role in local irrigation and commerce, founding Tempe and operating numerous enterprises. Married in 1876, he had four children, including future Congressman Carl Hayden, and remained a prominent figure until his death in 1900.