Indian Tribes between Missouri and Red Rivers and the Mississippi and Rocky Mountains, 1822

By a reference to the Table, it will be seen, that within the limits above specified, there are more than 100,000 Indians. In different and very advantageous positions, in the midst of this population, are planted already three Education Families, one at Dwight, 1 among the Cherokees, on Arkansaw river, established by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, two by the United Foreign Missionary Society, among the Great and Little Osages, at Harmony and Union. More are in contemplation, one particularly at the Council Bluffs. These establishments are on the plan of those planted among the Cherokees and Choctaws. The one contemplated at Council Bluffs is planned on a larger scale, and is to consist, if carried into effect, of a little colony of Christians. Its intended size is well suited to the interior and important station, which it is to occupy, and the large connection it will hare by branch establishments, with surrounding tribes. For more particular information concerning these Education stations, and of the tribes with which they are connected, and over whom they may obtain ultimate influence, and the country they inhabit, see Appendix. 2 From the facts which will here be found, it will appear, that the great work of educating this large portion of Indians, and preparing them to exercise and enjoy with us the rights and blessings of citizens, has already commenced with very promising prospects. Perseverance can hardly fail to secure success.

(a) This is Major O’Fallon’s estimate.
(b) Mr. Sibley’s estimate is 1,600.

Citations:

1. Named after the late President Dwight.[↩]
2. Appendix E[↩]