- They were married January 1, 1899.
- She was 18 years and 2 months old.
- He was 21 years and 3 months.
- Their first baby was born 8 months and 24 days after they married.
- Their last and 14th child was born 24 years and 11 months after they were married; she was 43 years old and he was 46.
- When he died he was 60 years and almost 8 months old. She had turned 79 2 months before she died.
- They were married 39 years and 4 months.
- Since 1959 they have lain side by side for 52 years in Mechanicsville Cemetery in PA since she died in 1959.
- Albert listed himself as 1/32 Cherokee.
- Lucinda listed herself as 1/8 Cherokee.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Lucinda and Albert James - Their Life Together
A Little Hint You May Not Know
In reading all the documents that I put on the blog like rolls and census, enlarge the print size on the bottom right of your computer just above your taskbar. They are very easily read then. These documents are a window into the past and so interesting to read and just see.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Albert Blunt James 1877 - 1938 My Maternal Grandfather
Albert James with his Mom Tennessee, Dad Solon, and bothers and sisters.
My grandfather "Bert" died in 1938, 6 years before I was born. I never heard anyone talk about him. It was wonderful when my cousin Norman sent me this picture. He became a real person.
I have gleaned every bit of information I can about him, but it is still limited. What I have discovered:
He was born Sept 21, 1877 In the Delaware District,Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, Oklahoma. His mother was Tennessee Almira Lane James, a Cherokee Indian, and his father David Solon James was White. He was one of 11 children, 3 of them dying when young. Of the children who lived to grow up, he had 3 sisters and 4 brothers.
In the Dawes Application which was made in July of 1900, he states he is 22 years old, is living in a house in Miami, OK.where he moved in 1899, a year ago when he got married. Before that he lived his entire life in the house with his parents in Miami. He says he is 1/32 Cherokee and his wife is Cherokee by blood. They had a baby daughter.He was the father of 14 children, 7 girls and 7 boys. Interestingly, of their first 7 children, 5 of them were girls. It did eventaully even out.
He was a jack of many trades:
Over the years Alfred "Bert" James had more than 1 occupation. After graduating from Cherokee Male Seminary on June 29, 1898 at 20 years old , he taught at Mitchell Springs School near Maysville, OK, the following year.
The 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 census all show his occupation as a farmer on a general farm.
The obituary of his wife Lucinda says she was the wife of a general contractor in one newspaper and in another newspaper obit says they owned real estate in Miami, OK, including the James and Arkansas buildings.
The obituary continues to say they left the Miami area during WWI to operate a poultry farm near Philadelphia.
They did live in East Berlin, Maryland before moving to Doyleston (near Philadelphia) Pennsylvania. He died in PA in 1938 where he is buried.
According to the census they always owned their home, even their first one, all mortgage free except for the house in Maryland.
He was born Sept 21, 1877 In the Delaware District,Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, Oklahoma. His mother was Tennessee Almira Lane James, a Cherokee Indian, and his father David Solon James was White. He was one of 11 children, 3 of them dying when young. Of the children who lived to grow up, he had 3 sisters and 4 brothers.
In the Dawes Application which was made in July of 1900, he states he is 22 years old, is living in a house in Miami, OK.where he moved in 1899, a year ago when he got married. Before that he lived his entire life in the house with his parents in Miami. He says he is 1/32 Cherokee and his wife is Cherokee by blood. They had a baby daughter.He was the father of 14 children, 7 girls and 7 boys. Interestingly, of their first 7 children, 5 of them were girls. It did eventaully even out.
He was a jack of many trades:
Over the years Alfred "Bert" James had more than 1 occupation. After graduating from Cherokee Male Seminary on June 29, 1898 at 20 years old , he taught at Mitchell Springs School near Maysville, OK, the following year.
The 1900, 1910, 1920, and 1930 census all show his occupation as a farmer on a general farm.
The obituary of his wife Lucinda says she was the wife of a general contractor in one newspaper and in another newspaper obit says they owned real estate in Miami, OK, including the James and Arkansas buildings.
The obituary continues to say they left the Miami area during WWI to operate a poultry farm near Philadelphia.
They did live in East Berlin, Maryland before moving to Doyleston (near Philadelphia) Pennsylvania. He died in PA in 1938 where he is buried.
According to the census they always owned their home, even their first one, all mortgage free except for the house in Maryland.
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| Index and Final Rolls of Citizens and Freedman of the Cherokee Albert James and Family are on the top right. Albert shows his "Blood" as 1/32. His older brother on the list above him Lorenzo James shows his blood at 1/16. They just did not know. The Cherokees paid little attention to the percentage of Cherokee they were. |
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| Dawes Roll Index to the Final Rolls of Citizens and Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes in Indian Territory (Dawes) 1889-1914 Application of Albert Blunt James |
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| Cherokee Eastern Roll or Guion Miller Index 1906 Albert and Family are on the left hand side of the page about 1/4 of the way down the page. It shows Albert as 28 in 1906 with a wife Lucinda and 5 children ages 7, 6, 4, 3, and 3 months |
Cherokee Eastern Roll Application showing 5 children and his father David Solon James at White.
Eastern Cherokee Application Page 2 showing his Grandfather as White and that he didn't remember his first name (Garrett). It also shows they were born in Georgia..It lists brothers and sisters.
Last Page of the Application Showing his Great Grandfather as David M. Harlan 1804-1868.
Albert "Bert" James Graduated from the Cherokee Male Seminary June 29, 1898
Since The Seminary was 78 miles from his home, I can only assume he boarded there.
CHEROKEE MALE AND FEMALE SEMINARIES
The Cherokee Male and Female Seminaries were boarding schools opened by the tribal government in 1851. The male school stood southwest of Tahlequah, and its female counterpart north of Park Hill. In identical, three-story, brick structures, the Cherokee Nation offered students a high school education. The preparatory curriculum of the Male Seminary included Greek, Latin, German, and French; chemistry, botany, geology, astronomy, and zoology; geography, U.S. and English history, political economy, and philosophy. While not as rigorous, the Female Seminary's curriculum was academically challenging. Ironically, neither seminary offered instruction in Cherokee language, history, and culture. The year before the schools opened, Cherokee representatives visited New England, seeking teachers. The men and women they employed from Yale, Mount Holyoke, and Newton Theological Seminary became the first of many Eastern-educated teachers who traveled to Indian Territory to teach in the two schools.
Prospective students first must pass a two-day examination, and the successful were educated at tribal expense. Although most students came from affluent, mixed-blood homes, the attrition rate was high in the early years. Twenty-six women and thirteen men were graduated from the seminaries by 1856. By that year the Cherokees had encountered economic problems. Neither seminary accepted students for the 1856 fall semester. The Civil War dashed the tribe's plans to reopen the seminaries. Used as warehouses, hospitals, and even stables, the buildings were in shambles when the war ended. A destitute Cherokee Nation could not reopen its schools until the 1870s. By mid-decade improving financial conditions enabled the Cherokees to renovate both facilities and hire additional teachers.
Because of limited tribal resources, students paid for room and board when the seminaries reopened. Children of tribe members unable to pay could enroll in an indigent department. To attract more students, the seminaries admitted children from other tribes; admission requirements were reduced, and the national council created a primary department composed of grades one through five and a preparatory department encompassing grades six through eight. Oklahoma historian Grant Foreman claimed that "the Cherokee Nation had a better common school system than either Arkansas or Missouri." Both institutions attracted dedicated teachers, but Miss A. Florence Wilson, hired as principal teacher in 1875, made a lasting impression in her quarter-century of service. Administering daily doses of sulphur and molasses and presiding over rigorous walks, she enforced discipline with an iron hand.
The educational routine at the Female Seminary was shattered on Easter Sunday in 1887, when fire demolished the building, but Miss Wilson got all the girls out. Two years later the school reopened just north of Tahlequah. Although both schools offered education rarely equaled in the surrounding states, in the years before Oklahoma 1907 statehood federal officials began systematically reducing the authority of tribal government, including its administration of education. Two years after statehood Oklahoma bought the Female Seminary for forty thousand dollars to house a state teacher-training school. The next year the Male Seminary, which was being operated by the tribe as a coeducational facility, burned. Commencement exercises held at Northeastern Normal School in the spring of 1910 honored the last students to earn degrees at the Cherokee National Seminaries.
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| Cherokee Male Seminary, Tahlequah, Oklahoma 1909 |
CHEROKEE MALE AND FEMALE SEMINARIES
The Cherokee Male and Female Seminaries were boarding schools opened by the tribal government in 1851. The male school stood southwest of Tahlequah, and its female counterpart north of Park Hill. In identical, three-story, brick structures, the Cherokee Nation offered students a high school education. The preparatory curriculum of the Male Seminary included Greek, Latin, German, and French; chemistry, botany, geology, astronomy, and zoology; geography, U.S. and English history, political economy, and philosophy. While not as rigorous, the Female Seminary's curriculum was academically challenging. Ironically, neither seminary offered instruction in Cherokee language, history, and culture. The year before the schools opened, Cherokee representatives visited New England, seeking teachers. The men and women they employed from Yale, Mount Holyoke, and Newton Theological Seminary became the first of many Eastern-educated teachers who traveled to Indian Territory to teach in the two schools.
Prospective students first must pass a two-day examination, and the successful were educated at tribal expense. Although most students came from affluent, mixed-blood homes, the attrition rate was high in the early years. Twenty-six women and thirteen men were graduated from the seminaries by 1856. By that year the Cherokees had encountered economic problems. Neither seminary accepted students for the 1856 fall semester. The Civil War dashed the tribe's plans to reopen the seminaries. Used as warehouses, hospitals, and even stables, the buildings were in shambles when the war ended. A destitute Cherokee Nation could not reopen its schools until the 1870s. By mid-decade improving financial conditions enabled the Cherokees to renovate both facilities and hire additional teachers.
Because of limited tribal resources, students paid for room and board when the seminaries reopened. Children of tribe members unable to pay could enroll in an indigent department. To attract more students, the seminaries admitted children from other tribes; admission requirements were reduced, and the national council created a primary department composed of grades one through five and a preparatory department encompassing grades six through eight. Oklahoma historian Grant Foreman claimed that "the Cherokee Nation had a better common school system than either Arkansas or Missouri." Both institutions attracted dedicated teachers, but Miss A. Florence Wilson, hired as principal teacher in 1875, made a lasting impression in her quarter-century of service. Administering daily doses of sulphur and molasses and presiding over rigorous walks, she enforced discipline with an iron hand.
The educational routine at the Female Seminary was shattered on Easter Sunday in 1887, when fire demolished the building, but Miss Wilson got all the girls out. Two years later the school reopened just north of Tahlequah. Although both schools offered education rarely equaled in the surrounding states, in the years before Oklahoma 1907 statehood federal officials began systematically reducing the authority of tribal government, including its administration of education. Two years after statehood Oklahoma bought the Female Seminary for forty thousand dollars to house a state teacher-training school. The next year the Male Seminary, which was being operated by the tribe as a coeducational facility, burned. Commencement exercises held at Northeastern Normal School in the spring of 1910 honored the last students to earn degrees at the Cherokee National Seminaries.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Trail of Tears
I feel like this blog jumps around like a rabbit with its tail on fire, but as I find info that I treasure like the report below I don't want it to get lost in the crunch of paper that is beside me. This is a long, long, long report as was the journey. A tremendous, horrific tragedy that is so incredibly sad but helps explain what happened along The Trail of Tears and should not be lost in a mass of other information.
An Overland Journey to the West (October - December 1837)
by B. B. Cannon, Conductor
Note from transcriber. I have transcribed this exactly as written.. Notice he uses Caps whenever he wishes (g).. Next Installment will begin with Nov. 1st.. gets more interesting and more names are mentioned.. more sickness starts setting in. I have read and been told, that the bacon was actually more fat-back.. Indians were use to a more lean and vegetable diet. And clean running water. Cherokees were very accustomed to water many times a day, bathing, healing as well as drinking. Most of the emigrants left with very little or no personal belongings. Few clothes and some with no shoes. (his word and spelling is left intact)
Journal kept by B. B. Cannon, Conductor of a party of Emigrating Cherokee Indians, put in his charge at the Cherokee Agency East, by Gen. N. Smith, Superintendent of Cherokee Removals, on the 13th day of October, 1837.
Oct. 13, 1837
Sent waggons to the Indian encampment and commenced loading in the evening.
Oct. 14, 1837
Completed loading the waggons and crossed the Highwassie river at Calhoun, encamped at 5:00 P.M.
Oct. 15, 1837
Marched the party at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Spring Creek at 11:O'C A.M. where Genl. Smith mustered the party, which consumed the remainder of the day. 5 miles today.
Oct. 16, 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M., halted and encamped at Kelly's ferry on the Tennessee river at 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn and fodder, corn meal & bacon. 14 miles today.
Oct. 17, 1837
Commenced ferrying the Tennessee river at 8 O'C A.M., after having been detained until the sun dispelled the fog - every thing being in readiness to commence at day light. completed ferrying at 4 O'C P.M. and reached little Richland creek at 8 O'C P.M. where the party had been directed to halt and encamp. Issued corn & fodder. 7 miles today.
Oct. 18, 1837
Marched at 71/2 O'C A.M. One of the provision waggons oversat, detained a half hour. No damage done. Ascended Wallens ridge, (the ascent 2 miles) halted at Ragsdale's 1 1/2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder - corn meal & bacon. 10 miles further to water, all wearied getting up the mountain. 5 miles today.
Oct. 19, 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'CA.M. descended from the mountain, halted at 2 O'C P.M. at Sequachee river near Mr. Springs. Issued corn & fodder. 11 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 20, 1837
Marched at 6 O'C A.M. ascended the Cumberland Mountain, halted at M. Flemings, 3/4 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 14 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 21, 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. descended the mountain, halted at Collins river, 4 1/4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, the Indians appear fatigued this evening. 13 miles today - road extremely rough.
Oct. 22, 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed through McMinnville, halted at Mr. Booths 1/2 past 12 O'C M encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon, Sugar and coffee to the Waggoners and Interpreters. No water for 12 miles ahead. Procured a quantity of corn meal and bacon today. 7 1/2 miles today. ( I would like to remark here that all supplies, both of forage and subsistance, were purchased contracted for on the way west by a contracting agent, and paid for on my request by Doct. Reynolds, the Disbursing Agent for the Party.)
Oct. 23rd 1837
Marched at 6 1/2 O'C A.M. Capt. Prigmore badly hurt by a waggon horse attempting to run away. Halted at Stones river near Woodbury - 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn &fodder. 20 miles today.
Oct. 24th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Yearwoods 4 O'C P.M. rained last night and today. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and bacon. 15 miles today.
Oct. 25th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. buried Andrew's child at 1/2 past 9 O'C A.M. passed through Murfreesborough, halted at Overall's creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder. 14 miles today.
Oct. 26th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed through tree turnpike Gates, halted at Mr. Harris 3 O'C P.M. encamped ant issued corn and fodder, corn meal and bacon. 16 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 27th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. passed through two Turnpike gates, and crossed the Cumberland river on the Nashville toll bridge at Nashville, halted at Mr. Putnams 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder. Isaac Walker and emigrant belonging to the Party, over took us - Mr. L. A. Kincannon, contracting agent, left us and returned home, having on the way, near McMinnville, signified his intentions, verbally, to do so, assigning as the reason the delicate situation of his health. - 13 miles today.
Oct. 28th 1837
Rested for the purpose of washing clothes, repairing waggons, and shoeing horses - Reese, Starr and others of the emigrants visited Genl. Jackson who was at Nashville. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and bacon. Assigned Mr. E. S. Curry to supply the place of Mr. Kincannon.
Oct. 29th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A. M. halted at Long creek 1/2 past 2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder - 13 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 30th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M., halted at Little red river 1/2 past 5 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 18 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 31st 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Graves, Ken (tucky) 3 O'C P.M. issued corn & fodder. 16 miles today.
Nov. 1st. 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. burried Ducks child, passed through Hopkinsville Ken.(tucky) halted at Mr. Northerns 1/2 past 5 O'C P.M.. Encamped & issued corn & fodder, Flour and bacon. 19 miles today
Nov. 2nd 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. and halted one mile in advance of Mr. Mitchelersons. 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder.
Nov. 3rd 1837
David Simpson and Pheasant, emigrants belonging to the party, came up last night in the stage, having been heretofore enrolled and mustered, Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed throu' Princeton, Ken. halted and encamped near Mr. Barnetts, at 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, flour and bacon. 17 miles today.
Nov. 4th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. encamped at Threlkelds branch, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder. 15 miles today.
Nov 5th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed thro' Salem, Ken. Halted and encamped at another Mr. Threlkelds branch 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn and fodder, a small quantity of flour, and bacon 13 1/2 miles today.
Nov. 6th 1837
Marched at 7 O'C A.M. Arrived at Berry's ferry (Golconda opposite the Ohio river) 9 O'C A.M. every thing in readiness to commence ferrying, but prevented on account of the extreme high winds and consequent roughness of the river, which continued the remainder of the day, encamped in the evening. Issued corn & fodder. 5 1/2 miles today.
Nov. 7th 1837
Commenced ferrying at 1/2 past 5 O'C A.M. Moved the party as it crossed one mile out and encamped completed crossing 4O'C P.M. All safely. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal & bacon. 1 mile today.
Nov. 8th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. Mr. Reese and myself remained behind and burried a child of Seabolts. Overtook the party, halted and encamped at Big Bay creek, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder (James Starr ; wife, left this morning with two carry-alls to take care of and bring on three of their children, who were too sick to travel - with instructions to overtake the party as soon as possible without endangering the lives of their children) - 15 miles today.
Nov 9th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Cash Creek, 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. Issue corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 15 miles today.
Nov. 10th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A. M. were detained 2 hours on the way making a bridge across a small creek, halted at Cypress creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & salt. 14 miles today.
Nov. 11th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed thro' Jonesboro, ILL. Halted and encamped at Clear Creek in the Mississippi river bottom 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. - 13 miles today. issued sugar & coffee to the waggoners and interpreters.
Nov. 12th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. arrived at Mississippi river 10 O'C A.M. commenced ferrying at 11 O'C A.M. directed party to move a short distance as they crossed the river, and encamped. Issued corn & fodder. Starr came up, the health of his children but little better. Richard Timberlake and George Ross overtook us and enrolled, attached themselves to the Starr family.
Nov. 13th 1837
Continued ferrying from 7 O'C until 10 O'C A.M. when the wind arose and checked our progress. 3 O'C P.M. resumed and made our trip. Suspended at 5 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal & bacon, burried another of Ducks children today.
Nov. 14th 1837
Crossed the residue of the Party. Marched at 10 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Mr. Williams. Issued corn & fodder. sickness prevailing. 5 miles today.
Nov. 15th 1837
Rested for the purpose of washing, & tc. Issued corn and fodder, corn meal and bacon.
Nov. 16th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. left Reese, Starr and families on account of sickness in their families, also James Taylor (Reese's son-in-law) and family. Taylor himself being very sick, with instructions to overtake the party. Passed thro' Jackson, Mo. halted & encamped at Widow Roberts on the road via Farmington &Issued corn only no fodder to be had. 17 miles today.
Nov. 17th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at white Water creek 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and beef. 13 miles today
Nov. 18th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Mr. Morand's 5 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, flour bacon. 16 miles today.
Nov. 19th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. at Wolf Creek. Issued corn & fodder. 14 miles today.
Nov 20th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed thro' Farmington, Mo. halted at St. Francis river, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, Flour & beef. 15 miles today.
Nov 21st 1837
A considerable number drunk last night - obtained the liquor at Farmington yesterday, had to get out of bed about midnight to quell the disorder. A refusal by several to march this morning, alledging that they would wait for Starr & Reese to come up at that place. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. in defiance of threats and attempts to intimidate, none remained behind, passed through Caledonia halted at Mr. Jackson's encamped and issued corn & fodder, beef & Bacon mostly bacon. 14 miles today.
Nov 22 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. pass through the lead mines (or Courtois diggings) halted at Scott's, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 13 miles today.
Nov 23rd 1837
rested for the purpose of repairing waggons shoeing horses, washing, & tc. Starr, Reese and Taylor came up the health of their families in some degree improve. Issued corn & fodder, and beef. Weather very cold.
Nov 24th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. Considerable sickness prevailing, halted at Huzza Creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder. 12 miles today.
Nov 25th 1837
Doct.. Townsend, officially, advised a suspension of our march, in consequence of the severe indisposition of several families, for a time sufficient for the employment of such remedial agents as their cases might require. I accordingly directed the Party to remain in camp and make the best possible arrangement for the sick. In the evening issued corn & fodder, flour and beef.
Nov 26th 1837
Remain in camp. sickness continuing and increasing. Issued corn & fodder, beef & corn meal.
Nov 27th 1837
Remained in camp. sickness continuing to increase. Issued corn & fodder, Bacon & corn meal.
Nov. 28th 1837
Moved the Detachment two miles further to a Spring and Schoolhouse. Obtained permission for as many of the sick to occupy the school house as could do so. A much better situation for an encampment than on the Creek. sickness increasing. Issued corn & fodder.
Nov 29th 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness still increasing. Buried Corn Tassle's child today. Issued corn & fodder.
Nov. 30th 1837
Remained in camp. sickness continuing. Issued corn & fodder.
Dec. 1st 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder, Bacon & corn meal. buried Oolanheta's child today.
Dec. 2nd 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder, Beef & corn meal.
Dec. 3rd 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder.
Dec. 4th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Buried George Killion, and left Mr. Wells to bury a waggoner (black boy) who died this morning. Scarcely room on the waggons for the sick. halted at Mr. Davis, 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. had to move down the creek a mile off the road, to get wood. Issued corn &fodder and corn meal. 11 miles today.
Dec. 5th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. left two waggoners (black boys) at Mr. Davis sick, this morning. Halted at the Merrimack river, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. Encamped and issued corn and fodder, corn meal and beef. 10 miles today.
Dec. 6th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed Masseys Iron Works. Halted at Mr. Jones' 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn fodder. 12 miles today.
Dec. 7th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. Reese's team ran away, broke his waggon and Starr's carry-all. left him and family to get his waggon mended, at 17 miles - and to overtake if possible. Halted at Mr. Baterson, 5 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder, corn meal bacon. 20 miles today.
Dec. 8th 1837
Buried Nancy Big Bear's grandchild. Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Halted at Piney, a small river, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. Rained all day, encamped and issued corn only no fodder to be had. Several drunk. 11 miles today
Dec. 9th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Mayfield's waggon broke down at about a mile - left him to get it mended and overtake, halted at Waynesville, Mo. 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, beef & corn meal. Weather extremely cold. 12 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 10th 1837
Marched at 1/2 past 8 O'C A.M. halted at the Gasconade river at 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder. 14 miles today.
Dec. 11th 1837
Marched at 1/2 past 8 O'C A.M. halted at Summer's 4 O'C P.M.
encamped and issued corn & fodder. 15 miles today.
Dec. 12th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. halted one mile in advance of Mr. Parke's at a branch, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal beef and a small quantity of bacon. 14 miles today.
Dec. 13th 1837
Marched at 81/2 O'C A.M. halted at a branch near Mr. Eddington's 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder. Reese and Mayfield came up. 13 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 14th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at James fork of White river, near the road but which does not cross the road, 3 O'C P.M. Mr. Wells taken sick. Issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 15 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 15 th1837
Joseph's Srarr's wife had a child last night. Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M.halted at Mr. Danforth's at 2 O'C P.M. Waggoners having horses shod until late at night. encamped & issued corn & fodder &beef. 10 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 16th 1837
Issued sugar and coffee to the Waggoners & Interpreters this morning. Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed through Springfield, Mo. halted at Mr. Clicks's 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 12 miles today. (left Mr. Wells)
Dec 17th 1737
Snowed last night. buried Ellege's wife and Charles Timberlake's son (Smoker). Marched at 9 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Dye's 3 O'C P.M. extremely cold weather, sickness prevailing to a considerable extent. All very much fatigued, encamped and issued corn & fodder &beef. 10 miles today.
Dec 18th 1837
Detained on account of sickness. Doct. Townsend sent back to Springfield for medicine - buried Dreadful Waters this evening. Issued corn & fodder &corn meal.
Dec. 19th 1837
Detained today also on account of sickness, cold intense. Issued corn & fodder and beef.
Dec. 20th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Allen's 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec. 21st 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Lockes on Flat Creek, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder &beef. 15 miles today.
Dec. 22nd 1837
Burried Goddard's Grand child. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at McMurtee's, 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec 23rd 1837
Buried Rainfrog's daughter ( Lucy Redstick's child). Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Reddix, 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & beef. 10 miles today.
Dec. 24th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at the X hollows, had to leave the road 3/4 of a mile to get water, 3 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, Pork and corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec. 25th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. took the right road to Cane Hill, at Fitzgeralds halted a half mile in advance of Mr. Cunningham's at a branch, 3 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder and salt Pork. 15 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 26th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C. halted at James Coulter's on Cane Hill, Ark. 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn meal corn & fodder. 16 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 27th 1837
Buried Alsey Timberlake Daughter of Charles Timberlake. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Beans, in the Cherokee Nation West, at 1/2 past 2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, fresh Pork and some beef. 12 miles today.
Dec. 28th 1837
The Party refused to go further, but at the same time pledged themselves to remain together until re-muster was made by the proper officer for whom I immediately sent an express to Ft. Gibson. They alledged at the same time that the refusal was in consequence of the sickness now prevailing - and that only. Doct. Reynolds, Disbursing agent for the Party, dismissed the waggons from further service. Buried another child of Chas. Timberlake, and one which was born (untimely) yesterday of which no other account is taken. Jesse HalfBreed's wife had a child last night. Issued Pork corn meal and flour, corn & fodder for today.
Lieut. Van Horn arrived late this evening - having missed the express on the way.
Dec. 29th 1837
Re-mustered the Party. Issued a small quanty of corn meal & pork yet on hand.
Dec. 30th 1837
Completed the Rolls of Remuster, turned over the Party to Lieut. Van Horn, and dismissed my assistant.
Conductor: B B Cannon
Principal Cherokee: James Starr
355 persons by land (15 died)
Left 10/15/1837, arrived 12/29/1837
Asst Conductors: Ezekiel S Curry
Jackson Scott
Thomas P Wells
Physician: Grandville Townsend
Interpreter: Charles Reese
Wagon Master: Thomas Prigmore
Disbursing Agt: Mr. Reynolds
Contractor: L A Kincannon
[Daily Journal by B B Cannon is in Special Files, Bureau of Indian Affairs; no Muster Roll. This detachment was the first to travel the overland route through Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri later used by most of the other Removal wagon trains]
An Overland Journey to the West (October - December 1837)
by B. B. Cannon, Conductor
Note from transcriber. I have transcribed this exactly as written.. Notice he uses Caps whenever he wishes (g).. Next Installment will begin with Nov. 1st.. gets more interesting and more names are mentioned.. more sickness starts setting in. I have read and been told, that the bacon was actually more fat-back.. Indians were use to a more lean and vegetable diet. And clean running water. Cherokees were very accustomed to water many times a day, bathing, healing as well as drinking. Most of the emigrants left with very little or no personal belongings. Few clothes and some with no shoes. (his word and spelling is left intact)
Journal kept by B. B. Cannon, Conductor of a party of Emigrating Cherokee Indians, put in his charge at the Cherokee Agency East, by Gen. N. Smith, Superintendent of Cherokee Removals, on the 13th day of October, 1837.
Oct. 13, 1837
Sent waggons to the Indian encampment and commenced loading in the evening.
Oct. 14, 1837
Completed loading the waggons and crossed the Highwassie river at Calhoun, encamped at 5:00 P.M.
Oct. 15, 1837
Marched the party at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Spring Creek at 11:O'C A.M. where Genl. Smith mustered the party, which consumed the remainder of the day. 5 miles today.
Oct. 16, 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M., halted and encamped at Kelly's ferry on the Tennessee river at 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn and fodder, corn meal & bacon. 14 miles today.
Oct. 17, 1837
Commenced ferrying the Tennessee river at 8 O'C A.M., after having been detained until the sun dispelled the fog - every thing being in readiness to commence at day light. completed ferrying at 4 O'C P.M. and reached little Richland creek at 8 O'C P.M. where the party had been directed to halt and encamp. Issued corn & fodder. 7 miles today.
Oct. 18, 1837
Marched at 71/2 O'C A.M. One of the provision waggons oversat, detained a half hour. No damage done. Ascended Wallens ridge, (the ascent 2 miles) halted at Ragsdale's 1 1/2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder - corn meal & bacon. 10 miles further to water, all wearied getting up the mountain. 5 miles today.
Oct. 19, 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'CA.M. descended from the mountain, halted at 2 O'C P.M. at Sequachee river near Mr. Springs. Issued corn & fodder. 11 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 20, 1837
Marched at 6 O'C A.M. ascended the Cumberland Mountain, halted at M. Flemings, 3/4 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 14 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 21, 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. descended the mountain, halted at Collins river, 4 1/4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, the Indians appear fatigued this evening. 13 miles today - road extremely rough.
Oct. 22, 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed through McMinnville, halted at Mr. Booths 1/2 past 12 O'C M encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon, Sugar and coffee to the Waggoners and Interpreters. No water for 12 miles ahead. Procured a quantity of corn meal and bacon today. 7 1/2 miles today. ( I would like to remark here that all supplies, both of forage and subsistance, were purchased contracted for on the way west by a contracting agent, and paid for on my request by Doct. Reynolds, the Disbursing Agent for the Party.)
Oct. 23rd 1837
Marched at 6 1/2 O'C A.M. Capt. Prigmore badly hurt by a waggon horse attempting to run away. Halted at Stones river near Woodbury - 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn &fodder. 20 miles today.
Oct. 24th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Yearwoods 4 O'C P.M. rained last night and today. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and bacon. 15 miles today.
Oct. 25th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. buried Andrew's child at 1/2 past 9 O'C A.M. passed through Murfreesborough, halted at Overall's creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder. 14 miles today.
Oct. 26th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed through tree turnpike Gates, halted at Mr. Harris 3 O'C P.M. encamped ant issued corn and fodder, corn meal and bacon. 16 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 27th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M. passed through two Turnpike gates, and crossed the Cumberland river on the Nashville toll bridge at Nashville, halted at Mr. Putnams 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder. Isaac Walker and emigrant belonging to the Party, over took us - Mr. L. A. Kincannon, contracting agent, left us and returned home, having on the way, near McMinnville, signified his intentions, verbally, to do so, assigning as the reason the delicate situation of his health. - 13 miles today.
Oct. 28th 1837
Rested for the purpose of washing clothes, repairing waggons, and shoeing horses - Reese, Starr and others of the emigrants visited Genl. Jackson who was at Nashville. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and bacon. Assigned Mr. E. S. Curry to supply the place of Mr. Kincannon.
Oct. 29th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A. M. halted at Long creek 1/2 past 2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder - 13 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 30th 1837
Marched at 7 1/2 O'C A.M., halted at Little red river 1/2 past 5 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 18 1/2 miles today.
Oct. 31st 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Graves, Ken (tucky) 3 O'C P.M. issued corn & fodder. 16 miles today.
Nov. 1st. 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. burried Ducks child, passed through Hopkinsville Ken.(tucky) halted at Mr. Northerns 1/2 past 5 O'C P.M.. Encamped & issued corn & fodder, Flour and bacon. 19 miles today
Nov. 2nd 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. and halted one mile in advance of Mr. Mitchelersons. 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder.
Nov. 3rd 1837
David Simpson and Pheasant, emigrants belonging to the party, came up last night in the stage, having been heretofore enrolled and mustered, Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed throu' Princeton, Ken. halted and encamped near Mr. Barnetts, at 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, flour and bacon. 17 miles today.
Nov. 4th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. encamped at Threlkelds branch, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder. 15 miles today.
Nov 5th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed thro' Salem, Ken. Halted and encamped at another Mr. Threlkelds branch 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn and fodder, a small quantity of flour, and bacon 13 1/2 miles today.
Nov. 6th 1837
Marched at 7 O'C A.M. Arrived at Berry's ferry (Golconda opposite the Ohio river) 9 O'C A.M. every thing in readiness to commence ferrying, but prevented on account of the extreme high winds and consequent roughness of the river, which continued the remainder of the day, encamped in the evening. Issued corn & fodder. 5 1/2 miles today.
Nov. 7th 1837
Commenced ferrying at 1/2 past 5 O'C A.M. Moved the party as it crossed one mile out and encamped completed crossing 4O'C P.M. All safely. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal & bacon. 1 mile today.
Nov. 8th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. Mr. Reese and myself remained behind and burried a child of Seabolts. Overtook the party, halted and encamped at Big Bay creek, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder (James Starr ; wife, left this morning with two carry-alls to take care of and bring on three of their children, who were too sick to travel - with instructions to overtake the party as soon as possible without endangering the lives of their children) - 15 miles today.
Nov 9th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Cash Creek, 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. Issue corn & fodder, corn meal & Bacon. 15 miles today.
Nov. 10th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A. M. were detained 2 hours on the way making a bridge across a small creek, halted at Cypress creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & salt. 14 miles today.
Nov. 11th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed thro' Jonesboro, ILL. Halted and encamped at Clear Creek in the Mississippi river bottom 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. - 13 miles today. issued sugar & coffee to the waggoners and interpreters.
Nov. 12th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. arrived at Mississippi river 10 O'C A.M. commenced ferrying at 11 O'C A.M. directed party to move a short distance as they crossed the river, and encamped. Issued corn & fodder. Starr came up, the health of his children but little better. Richard Timberlake and George Ross overtook us and enrolled, attached themselves to the Starr family.
Nov. 13th 1837
Continued ferrying from 7 O'C until 10 O'C A.M. when the wind arose and checked our progress. 3 O'C P.M. resumed and made our trip. Suspended at 5 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal & bacon, burried another of Ducks children today.
Nov. 14th 1837
Crossed the residue of the Party. Marched at 10 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Mr. Williams. Issued corn & fodder. sickness prevailing. 5 miles today.
Nov. 15th 1837
Rested for the purpose of washing, & tc. Issued corn and fodder, corn meal and bacon.
Nov. 16th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. left Reese, Starr and families on account of sickness in their families, also James Taylor (Reese's son-in-law) and family. Taylor himself being very sick, with instructions to overtake the party. Passed thro' Jackson, Mo. halted & encamped at Widow Roberts on the road via Farmington &Issued corn only no fodder to be had. 17 miles today.
Nov. 17th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at white Water creek 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, corn meal and beef. 13 miles today
Nov. 18th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped at Mr. Morand's 5 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, flour bacon. 16 miles today.
Nov. 19th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted and encamped 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. at Wolf Creek. Issued corn & fodder. 14 miles today.
Nov 20th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. passed thro' Farmington, Mo. halted at St. Francis river, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, Flour & beef. 15 miles today.
Nov 21st 1837
A considerable number drunk last night - obtained the liquor at Farmington yesterday, had to get out of bed about midnight to quell the disorder. A refusal by several to march this morning, alledging that they would wait for Starr & Reese to come up at that place. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. in defiance of threats and attempts to intimidate, none remained behind, passed through Caledonia halted at Mr. Jackson's encamped and issued corn & fodder, beef & Bacon mostly bacon. 14 miles today.
Nov 22 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. pass through the lead mines (or Courtois diggings) halted at Scott's, 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 13 miles today.
Nov 23rd 1837
rested for the purpose of repairing waggons shoeing horses, washing, & tc. Starr, Reese and Taylor came up the health of their families in some degree improve. Issued corn & fodder, and beef. Weather very cold.
Nov 24th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. Considerable sickness prevailing, halted at Huzza Creek, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder. 12 miles today.
Nov 25th 1837
Doct.. Townsend, officially, advised a suspension of our march, in consequence of the severe indisposition of several families, for a time sufficient for the employment of such remedial agents as their cases might require. I accordingly directed the Party to remain in camp and make the best possible arrangement for the sick. In the evening issued corn & fodder, flour and beef.
Nov 26th 1837
Remain in camp. sickness continuing and increasing. Issued corn & fodder, beef & corn meal.
Nov 27th 1837
Remained in camp. sickness continuing to increase. Issued corn & fodder, Bacon & corn meal.
Nov. 28th 1837
Moved the Detachment two miles further to a Spring and Schoolhouse. Obtained permission for as many of the sick to occupy the school house as could do so. A much better situation for an encampment than on the Creek. sickness increasing. Issued corn & fodder.
Nov 29th 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness still increasing. Buried Corn Tassle's child today. Issued corn & fodder.
Nov. 30th 1837
Remained in camp. sickness continuing. Issued corn & fodder.
Dec. 1st 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder, Bacon & corn meal. buried Oolanheta's child today.
Dec. 2nd 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder, Beef & corn meal.
Dec. 3rd 1837
Remained in camp. Sickness abating. Issued corn & fodder.
Dec. 4th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Buried George Killion, and left Mr. Wells to bury a waggoner (black boy) who died this morning. Scarcely room on the waggons for the sick. halted at Mr. Davis, 1/2 past 4 O'C P.M. had to move down the creek a mile off the road, to get wood. Issued corn &fodder and corn meal. 11 miles today.
Dec. 5th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. left two waggoners (black boys) at Mr. Davis sick, this morning. Halted at the Merrimack river, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. Encamped and issued corn and fodder, corn meal and beef. 10 miles today.
Dec. 6th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed Masseys Iron Works. Halted at Mr. Jones' 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn fodder. 12 miles today.
Dec. 7th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. Reese's team ran away, broke his waggon and Starr's carry-all. left him and family to get his waggon mended, at 17 miles - and to overtake if possible. Halted at Mr. Baterson, 5 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn and fodder, corn meal bacon. 20 miles today.
Dec. 8th 1837
Buried Nancy Big Bear's grandchild. Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Halted at Piney, a small river, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. Rained all day, encamped and issued corn only no fodder to be had. Several drunk. 11 miles today
Dec. 9th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. Mayfield's waggon broke down at about a mile - left him to get it mended and overtake, halted at Waynesville, Mo. 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, beef & corn meal. Weather extremely cold. 12 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 10th 1837
Marched at 1/2 past 8 O'C A.M. halted at the Gasconade river at 4 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder. 14 miles today.
Dec. 11th 1837
Marched at 1/2 past 8 O'C A.M. halted at Summer's 4 O'C P.M.
encamped and issued corn & fodder. 15 miles today.
Dec. 12th 1837
Marched at 9 O'C A.M. halted one mile in advance of Mr. Parke's at a branch, 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, corn meal beef and a small quantity of bacon. 14 miles today.
Dec. 13th 1837
Marched at 81/2 O'C A.M. halted at a branch near Mr. Eddington's 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder. Reese and Mayfield came up. 13 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 14th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at James fork of White river, near the road but which does not cross the road, 3 O'C P.M. Mr. Wells taken sick. Issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 15 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 15 th1837
Joseph's Srarr's wife had a child last night. Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M.halted at Mr. Danforth's at 2 O'C P.M. Waggoners having horses shod until late at night. encamped & issued corn & fodder &beef. 10 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 16th 1837
Issued sugar and coffee to the Waggoners & Interpreters this morning. Marched at 9 O'C A.M. passed through Springfield, Mo. halted at Mr. Clicks's 4 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 12 miles today. (left Mr. Wells)
Dec 17th 1737
Snowed last night. buried Ellege's wife and Charles Timberlake's son (Smoker). Marched at 9 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Dye's 3 O'C P.M. extremely cold weather, sickness prevailing to a considerable extent. All very much fatigued, encamped and issued corn & fodder &beef. 10 miles today.
Dec 18th 1837
Detained on account of sickness. Doct. Townsend sent back to Springfield for medicine - buried Dreadful Waters this evening. Issued corn & fodder &corn meal.
Dec. 19th 1837
Detained today also on account of sickness, cold intense. Issued corn & fodder and beef.
Dec. 20th 1837
Marched at 8 1/2 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Allen's 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec. 21st 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Lockes on Flat Creek, 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder &beef. 15 miles today.
Dec. 22nd 1837
Burried Goddard's Grand child. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at McMurtee's, 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder and corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec 23rd 1837
Buried Rainfrog's daughter ( Lucy Redstick's child). Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Reddix, 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder & beef. 10 miles today.
Dec. 24th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at the X hollows, had to leave the road 3/4 of a mile to get water, 3 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder, Pork and corn meal. 15 miles today.
Dec. 25th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C A.M. took the right road to Cane Hill, at Fitzgeralds halted a half mile in advance of Mr. Cunningham's at a branch, 3 O'C P.M. Issued corn & fodder and salt Pork. 15 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 26th 1837
Marched at 8 O'C. halted at James Coulter's on Cane Hill, Ark. 1/2 past 3 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn meal corn & fodder. 16 1/2 miles today.
Dec. 27th 1837
Buried Alsey Timberlake Daughter of Charles Timberlake. Marched at 8 O'C A.M. halted at Mr. Beans, in the Cherokee Nation West, at 1/2 past 2 O'C P.M. encamped and issued corn & fodder, fresh Pork and some beef. 12 miles today.
Dec. 28th 1837
The Party refused to go further, but at the same time pledged themselves to remain together until re-muster was made by the proper officer for whom I immediately sent an express to Ft. Gibson. They alledged at the same time that the refusal was in consequence of the sickness now prevailing - and that only. Doct. Reynolds, Disbursing agent for the Party, dismissed the waggons from further service. Buried another child of Chas. Timberlake, and one which was born (untimely) yesterday of which no other account is taken. Jesse HalfBreed's wife had a child last night. Issued Pork corn meal and flour, corn & fodder for today.
Lieut. Van Horn arrived late this evening - having missed the express on the way.
Dec. 29th 1837
Re-mustered the Party. Issued a small quanty of corn meal & pork yet on hand.
Dec. 30th 1837
Completed the Rolls of Remuster, turned over the Party to Lieut. Van Horn, and dismissed my assistant.
Conductor: B B Cannon
Principal Cherokee: James Starr
355 persons by land (15 died)
Left 10/15/1837, arrived 12/29/1837
Asst Conductors: Ezekiel S Curry
Jackson Scott
Thomas P Wells
Physician: Grandville Townsend
Interpreter: Charles Reese
Wagon Master: Thomas Prigmore
Disbursing Agt: Mr. Reynolds
[Daily Journal by B B Cannon is in Special Files, Bureau of Indian Affairs; no Muster Roll. This detachment was the first to travel the overland route through Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri later used by most of the other Removal wagon trains]
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