Fox Murderers Wanted
In April 1832, Brig. General Atkinson mobilized troops to Fort Armstrong to prevent war between the Menominee and Fox Indians, following a massacre by the Foxes. Upon arrival, he learned that Black Hawk’s band was preparing to invade Illinois, presenting a new threat. Atkinson sought intelligence from local officials, concluding that strong measures were necessary. Consequently, Illinois Governor Reynolds called up militia forces, which assembled in Beardstown, organized under Brig. Gen. Samuel Whitesides, and prepared for a campaign against the hostile tribes.