Oregon

Reminiscences by Major J. G. Trimble

The post details a military expedition from Camp Harney to the Modoc country during winter, emphasizing the harsh conditions faced by the soldiers. They journeyed through deep snow and rugged terrain, relying on sagebrush for warmth and struggling with their pack animals. After enduring two weeks of treacherous conditions, they reached the lava beds where the Modoc Indians took refuge. The landscape posed significant challenges for combat, leading to numerous hardships for the troops as they attempted to dislodge the Native Americans from their strongholds amidst a hostile environment.

The Disaster to Thomas’ Command

Major Thomas’ command faced a tragic disaster shortly after the Modoc conflict. Sent to assess the placement of howitzers near Jacks Stronghold, the inexperienced troops were surprise attacked, leading to heavy casualties. Despite valiant efforts, Major Thomas and most of his officers were killed, while the survivors endured a harrowing retreat through a storm, struggling with demoralization and exhaustion. The operation’s failure illustrated the grave misjudgments of leadership, marking a sorrowful chapter in military history and highlighting the bravery of those involved.

The Battle of Camas Meadows

In the summer of 1877, during the Nez Perce campaign, Captain Randolph Norwood’s Company L of the Second Cavalry encountered a skirmish at Camas Meadow after a grueling pursuit of the Nez Perce. Despite being outnumbered and suffering casualties, the soldiers held their ground against a well-coordinated Indian attack, thanks in part to Sergeant Hugh McCafferty’s bravery. Ultimately, they recovered some mules and continued the pursuit the following day, though the battle’s aftermath left many questions unanswered about their enemy’s losses.

First Battle of the Modoc War

The First Battle of the Modoc War erupted on November 29, 1872, when U.S. cavalry, led by Captain James Jackson, attempted to remove renegade Modocs, led by Captain Jack, from their homeland near Tule Lake. Initial attempts at peaceful negotiation failed, and violence erupted as the Modocs ambushed the soldiers. Despite their fierce resistance, the Modocs faced significant losses, while several soldiers were also killed or wounded. The battle highlighted the deep tensions over land ownership and the tragic consequences of the conflict between Indigenous peoples and settlers.

Tribes East of the Cascade Mountains Dissatisfied

Many tribes east of the Cascade Mountains, particularly the Yakimas, expressed dissatisfaction with the treaties made by Governor Stevens in 1855. Misunderstandings fueled resentment, as some chiefs claimed they were coerced into signing. Amidst fears of land loss and disease, tribal leaders like Leschi urged unity for resistance. While some tribes supported the whites, violent confrontations erupted, including massacres and retaliatory attacks that left both sides with significant losses. The treaties, which ceded vast lands for minimal compensation, further deepened grievances among the tribes.

Rogue River, Yakama and Klickitat War

Oregon was established as a U.S. territory in 1848, governed by General Joe Lane. Tensions arose as settlers encroached on lands held by Native tribes such as the Rogue River and Klickitat, leading to increased conflicts. Despite initial treaties and peace efforts, hostilities erupted, fueled by broken promises and land disputes. The Klickitat tribe, once powerful and influential, found themselves ignored in treaties and coerced by settlers. By 1855, facing disease and pressure, they were prepared for war, marking a significant escalation in tensions in the region.

No Catholics were Injured during Massacre

During the Wailatpu massacre, no Hudson’s Bay Company employees, relatives, or Catholics were harmed. The event sparked disputes regarding the roles of the company and Jesuits in inciting the violence, coinciding with a period of widespread illness among local tribes. This environment of sickness and superstition led to beliefs that medicine men could inflict death, resulting in the murder of those unable to cure patients. Although the Jesuits faced accusations of complicity, evidence remains circumstantial, fueling ongoing sectarian tensions.

Murder of the Missionaries

Western Half of the 1841 Northwest Indian Reservations Map

In 1847, tensions between Protestant missionaries and Catholic Jesuits escalated in Oregon, leading to the tragic massacre of Dr. Whitman and members of his mission by Cayuse Indians. The Jesuits, supported by the Hudson’s Bay Company, actively sought to undermine the Protestant efforts, exacerbating divisions among Native tribes. During the attack, multiple missionaries and their families faced violent deaths, while some managed to escape. The aftermath saw retaliatory measures by American settlers, resulting in the eventual capture and execution of key figures responsible for the massacre.

Massacres of the Mountains

General Custer’s claim about the vast decline in the Indian population illustrates a widespread misconception. Estimates suggest that at Columbus’ arrival, the population may have been around 500,000, not millions. Dunn’s “Massacres of the Mountains” critically assesses the historical factors contributing to conflicts with Native Americans, such as broken treaties and government policies. He argues for an honest and fair approach to Indian relations, emphasizing that proper treatment and education can lead to greater integration and preservation of Indigenous cultures, rather than forced removals and neglect.

The Oregon Trail

The Oregon Trail

Francis Parkman’s narrative details the preparations of emigrants from across the nation for their journey along the Oregon Trail, with a notable number also heading to Santa Fe. Many of these travelers were affluent individuals seeking new opportunities in Oregon and California. Parkman’s work captures the varied experiences along the trail, including scenes at Fort Leavenworth, encounters with Native American tribes, and the challenges faced, such as hunting for buffalo and navigating the mountainous terrain.

The Settlements

The travelers encountered a multitude of Mormon battalions and Missouri volunteers as they descended into a lush valley, where tents were pitched and cattle grazed. Despite the initial astonishment, they found camaraderie in their shared hardships on the journey. As they continued, they transitioned from arid plains to fertile fields, witnessing changing landscapes and abundant wildlife. Upon returning to the settlements, the travelers noted the vivid contrast to their earlier experiences. Their journey culminated in St. Louis, where they bid farewell to companions and embraced the comforts of civilization.

Down the Arkansas River

In the summer of 1846, General Kearny’s army traversed the Upper Arkansas, marking a historical military passage. Among the troops was Price’s Missouri regiment, characterized by their unorthodox discipline and fervent spirit. The Missourians exhibited valor in battle, notably during a challenging engagement at Sacramento, where their irregular tactics led to a significant victory against larger Mexican forces. As the regiment advanced, they encountered the rugged wilderness, buffalo, and the challenges of frontier life, showcasing the resilience and camaraderie of men on the march to Santa Fe.

The Buffalo Camp

At the Buffalo Camp, Jim Gurney’s energetic demeanor starkly contrasted with Ellis’s laziness, leading to a lively morning where the party prepared for their journey. Hunting ensued, with Shaw and Henry Chatillon successfully tracking and killing buffalo, while Tete Rouge entertained the group with his antics. The camp endured a fierce storm but emerged to sunlit prairie days filled with hunting and drying meat. After four days, they packed their provisions, leaving behind a scene of wolves and vultures feasting on the remains of their camp.

The Chase

The post describes the thrilling and perilous experience of buffalo hunting in two primary methods: running and approaching. The running method, often conducted on horseback, involves reckless pursuit through tumultuous herds, while the approach requires stealth and skill on foot. The narrative recounts a specific hunting expedition, where the hunters face challenges from both the buffalo and the unpredictable terrain. Ultimately, they successfully hunt buffalo, faced with the dangers inherent in the chase, reinforcing the excitement and risk of this traditional practice.

Indian Alarms

The journey to frontier settlements began on August 27, marked by a ragtag group of travelers on worn horses and mules. The party faced numerous challenges, including the antics of Tete Rouge, whose eccentricities provided comic relief amid the hardships. They encountered Santa Fe traders who reported increasing dangers from prowling Indians, including a recent attack on another group. Upon reaching an Arapahoe village, the party navigated tense interactions while gathering intelligence about potential threats and supplies, ultimately resting uneasily due to fears of hostile encounters.

Tete Rouge, the Volunteer

The following morning, after preparing for their journey, the group encountered a peculiar figure in military attire, who pleaded to leave the fort. Initially reluctant, they eventually agreed to take him, christening him Tete Rouge due to his red curls. Previously a clerk and volunteer, he faced hardship when stricken with brain fever. Though recovering, he exhibited a comical demeanor, further highlighted by his difficulties with a mule and provisioning. Despite his unremarkable abilities, Tete Rouge became part of the expedition, showing resilience in the face of adversity.

The Pueblo and Bent’s Fort

The Pueblo, a dilapidated fort, was met by travelers who encountered Richard, a trader. He guided them through a modestly decorated area, where they shared a meal with locals and discussed recent military movements. Mormons nearby faced challenges as they settled in, fearing hostile encounters. The travelers then embarked towards Bent’s Fort, noting the region’s danger from aggressive Indians. Upon reaching the fort, they met new allies, eager to journey together back to the settlements, setting the stage for their continued adventure.

The Lonely Journey

Upon arriving at Fort Laramie, the narrator and Shaw prepare for their journey southward. They encounter Indian allies and hear of recent hostilities, reinforcing their cautious approach. With limited resources and companions, they set out, equipped only with rifles and a profound sense of self-sufficiency. As they traverse the barren landscapes, they face various challenges, including a lack of water and treacherous wildlife. Despite these hardships, they maintain a camaraderie among their group, which is filled with humor and shared stories, as they navigate the dangers of the untamed frontier.

Passage of the Mountains

As the narrator departs from Shaw at La Bontes Camp, he intends to meet him at Fort Laramie by August 1st, though unforeseen delays arise. Accompanied by a group of Indians, they traverse challenging mountain passages amid a somber atmosphere marked by mourning and preparations for conflict. The journey reveals both the harsh beauty of the mountains and the cultural dynamics of the tribe. Eventually, the narrator approaches Fort Laramie, anticipating a return to civilization and the comforts offered by his companions.

A Mountain Hunt

In the bustling camp, lodge-poles were being processed, and hides prepared for coverings. Eager for a hunt, a group, including the narrator and Reynals, ventured into the rugged mountains, encountering treacherous terrain and elusive game. Despite their efforts, they returned empty-handed, reflecting on the youthful Hail-Storm’s successful elk kill, contrasting their own lack of luck. The day concluded with a calm atmosphere, as the camp lingered in lethargy, encapsulating the essence of life amidst the challenging wilderness of the Rockies.