There is great excitement in the community with reference to arming the Indians at the present time, as for several days past reports have come to us that our frontier settlements are in danger of attack from hostile Indians who are collecting in the neighborhood. I am daily importuned to send them aid. Also, report says, and it seems very reliable, that the Indians on our southern border are arming themselves against our citizens. In addition to these Indian rumors it is believed by many that these arms are in danger of falling into the hands of secessionists, before reaching their destination. Quite a number of that class of men have recently passed up this way (Topeka) and through Riley County. In this condition of affairs I do not think these arms & ammunition can be taken west without an escort, as the rabble will be almost certain to waylay them as soon as they get on the Pottawatomie Reserve. I can protect them while in this county & will do so, but cannot follow them. Would it not be well, if you have the authority, to direct the bearer to leave that part of his freight in charge of the U. S. Marshal, or in my charge, until there shall be a change of circumstances, or until further orders from Washington?
Although I would not undertake to oppose the action of Government in the matter and would not interfere unless it should be to prevent the property from falling into the hands of a mob, yet I do think under the circumstances it is very bad policy to arm the Indians on the border. I feel very sure from what I learn, they will be used against our citizens within three months time. I am ready to co-operate at all times with the U. S. authorities....—General Files, Central Superintendency, 1860-1862, B479. See also Branch’s reply, May 23, ibid.
[446] H. B. Branch to Mix, September 16, 1861, transmitting a letter from Agent Farnsworth of September 16, 1861, enclosing communications from Senator Lane, Captain Price, and others, “relative to organizing the Indians for the defense of the Government” [General Files, Kansas, 1855-1862, B774].
Headquarters K.B. Ft. Lincoln, Aug. 22d 1861.
To Indian Agents Sac and Foxes—Shawnees—Delawares—Kickapoos—Potawatomies—and Kaws—Tribes of Indians
Gents: For the defence of Kansas I have determined to use the loyal Indians of the Tribes above named. To this end I have appointed Augustus Wattles, Esq to confer with you and adopt such measures as will secure the early assembling of the Indians at this point.
If you have the means within your control I would like to have you supply them when they march with a sufficient quantity of powder, lead & subsistence for their march to this place, where they will be fed by the Government.
You can assure them for the Govt that they will not be marched out of Kansas without their consent—that they will be used only for the defence of Kansas.
I enjoin each of you to be prompt and energetic that an early assembling of said Indians at this point may thereby be secured.
J. H. Lane, Commanding Kansas Brigade.
By Abram Cutler, Acting assistant Adgt-Gen.