FRENCH AND INDIANS
or
ILLINOIS RIVER.
BY N. MATSON,
Author of " Beyond the Atlantic," " Reminiscences of
Bureau County," Maps, Sketches, Etc.
SECOND EDITION.
PRINCETON, ILL.
republican job printing establishment,
1874.
Entered according to an act of Congress in the year 1874,
By N. MATSON,
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
INTRODUCTION.
The beautiful country between the Wabash
and Mississippi rivers, now within the boundaries
of the Sucker State, was once occupied by the
powerful tribe of Illinois Indians. Over these
prairies, and through these groves, these wild peo¬
ple, while in their native simplicity roamed at
pleasure. Generation succeeded generation, and
no one doubted their right to possess the land.
The French came and lived among them, intro¬
ducing a new religion with arts of civilization, and
between the races harmony and friendship pre¬
vailed. But afterwards an enemy came, war and
carnage followed, and the Illinoians were annihi¬
lated.
For a time the conquerors possessed the land,
but the tide of civilization, which is ever rolling
INTRODUCTION.
westward, compelled them to find a new home
beyond the Father of Waters.
To give some account of these events, has been
the object of this work, and to what extent these
efforts have been a success, the reader is left to
judge. Some of the incidents herein narrated,
are drawn from history, others from traditions,
while many are from the statements of persons
who figured in them. To collect these traditions
from the Indians and early French pioneers, has
been the work of many years, and harmonizing
all conflicting accounts, candor compels me to ad¬
mit, has not been a success.
This is an account of people who left no his
tory, and all that is known of them are scraps of
tradition, which are more or less vailed in doubt
and uncertainty. While the Indians were still
in the country, I obtained from them many
things relating to the past ; some of which are
confirmed by notes recently collected among the
tribe in western Kansas.
The descendants of the early French pioneers
now living on the American Bottom, have also
been interviewed, and all their traditions carefully
introduction.
noted. Many of the places where marked events
occurred have been visited ; at some of which
relics oí the past still exist.
A short time since, a small edition of this work
was published and copies of it sent among the
descendants of the French pioneers, Fur Traders,
Indian Agents, etc., for the purpose of obtaining
their criticism ; and through this means many
errors were detected, and new facts developed.
This book does not claim to be a full and com¬
plete history of the French and Indians of the
Illinois river, but will be found to consist mainly
of sketches and incidents relating thereto. Neith¬
er does it vouch for the correctness of every state¬
ment made in its pages ; as many of them are
compiled from conflicting accounts, and of their
probability or improbability, others can decide.
Among those who aided me in my researches
were Geo. E. "Walker and Col. Gerden S. Hub¬
bard, of Chicago ; Col. D. F. Hitt and David
Walker, of Ottawa ; John Hamlin, of Peoria,
and Lyman C. Draper, of Madison, Wisconsin.
N. M.
Princeton, September 1, 1874.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
PAGE.
Joliet and Marquette—Starved Rock, - - 15
CHAPTER II.
Father Marquette—Discovery of the Mississippi, 25
CHAPER III.
Illinois Indians—La Van tum or Great Illinois Town, 33
CHAPTER IV.
The Cross Raised on the Bank of Chicago River—
Mission of Immaculate Conception—Death of
Marquette, - - - - - 42
CHAPTER V.
The Great Explorer of the West—La Salle and
Party Westward Bound—The French at Peoria
Lake, - 53
CHAPTER VI.
Henri de Tonti—The French at La Yantum—The
Alarm and Preparation for Defense, 65
CHAPTER VII.
The Battle and Massacre—Torturing Prisoners-
Death of Father Gabriel—A Scene of Horror, 73
C0NTBNT8.
CHAPTER VIII.
Fort St. Louis, Rock Fort and Le Rocher—Trade
with the Indians—Flight of Indians and Attack
on the Fort, - - - - - 85
CHAPTER IX.
Return of the Victorious Army—Tonti Visits the
Winnebago Country—The Unscrupulous Priest
—The Great Illinois Chief—His Death, Bur¬
ial, Ac., - - - . - 97
CHAPTER X.
Le Fort des Miamis—Strange Indian Customs—
Manitos and Barses—Christianizing the In¬
dians, ------ 108
CHAPTER XI.
The Last of Tonti—Fort St. Louis Burned and the
Colony Broken Up—Relics of Fort St. Louis, 120
CHAPTER XII.
French Settlement at Peoria—La Ville de Maillet—
French Inhabitants of Peoria, - - 132
CHAPTER XIII.
Pontiac—Massacre of a Hunting Party—Indian
Council—Pontiac Assassinated, - - 144
CHAPTER XIV.
Rock of Refuge—The Besiegers and Besieged—A
Ghastly Spectacle—Relics of the Tragedy, 157
CHAPTER XV.
The Old Fort—Relics of Antiquity—Louisiana
Colony—The Buffalo—Pat Kennedy's Journal
—The Great Buffalo Hunt, - - 172
CONTENTS,
CHAPTER XVI.
Jean Baptiste and Father Bonner—Pierre de Beuro
Captain Levering Visits Peoria—Gov. Edwards
Meeting the Pottawatomie Chiefs, - - 187
CHAPTER XVII.
Troops Marching Against the Indians—Black Part¬
ridge—Indians Attacking'the Settlement, - 200
CHAPTER XVIII.
The French at Peoria Regarded as Enemies—Burn¬
ing of Peoria, .... 212
CHAPTER XIX.
Descendants of French Settlers at Peoria—Mrs.
Besson's Narrative—Missionaries of. Illinois, 223
CHAPTER XX.
Gen. Howard's Expedition Against the Indians—
Indians Collect on Bureau, - - - 236
CHAPTER XXI.
A Treaty of Peace—Waubonsie—Burning of Fort
Clark, ..... 247
CHAPTER XXII
Immigration of Pottawatomies—Pottawatomies of
Illinois River—Ceremonies of Senachwine's
Grave, - - - - - - 256
CHAPTER XXIII.
Attempt to Murder a Surveying Party—Kaltoo, or
Young Senachwine—Fur Traders, - - 265
CHAPTER I.
On a clear warm day in the early part of Sep¬
tember, 1673, two bark canoes were seen slowly
gliding np the Illinois river, whose placid waters
had never before reflected the face of a white man.
These canoes were propelled up stream partly by
sail and partly by oars, and as they went forward
the travelers on board of them caused the wild
woods along the shores to resound with songs of
praise. On the sail of the foremost canoe was
painted various devices, representing a coat of
arms, a pipe of peace, and a cross—emblematical
of power, friendship and Christianity.
The voyageurs were delighted with the country
through which they were passing, and they made
many comments on the beauty of the surrounding
scenery. Large herds of buffalo were seen feeding
on the prairie, and at the sound of the oars, elk,
deer and antelope would arise from their lair, and
bound away across the distant plains. Wild geese
and swans were swimming in the river, while
A
i6 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
flocks of paroquets made merry the lonely waters
with their so tigs.
This party of travelers consisted of nine per¬
sons. Louis Joliet, a government officer ; Jacques
Marquette, a Jesuit priest; five oarsmen, and two
Indian interpreters. They were the first to dis¬
cover the upper Mississippi, having descended it
in their canoes from the mouth of Wisconsin
river to its junction with Arkansas. Here they
became satisfied that this great river of the west
did not empty into the Pacific ocean, as they had
supposed, but into the South Sea, consequently,
they turned their canoes up stream, and were on
their return to Canada to report the success of
their discoveries.
It was late in the afternoon when the voyageurs
arrived at LaVantum—the great town of Illinois
—located on the north bank of the river, near the
present site of Utiea. They were surprised to
find here a large town, built along the river bank
for more than a mile in extent, while back of it
the great meadow was covered with corn-fields,
camping tents, and swarmed with human beings.
As the voyageurs approached the town, the In¬
dians in great numbers collected on the river
bank to see these strange people, never before
having looked upon the face of a white man.
Warriors, armed with bows and arrows, lined the
JOLIET AND MARQUETTE.
17
shore, prepared to give the strangers battle, if
enemies, and greet them with kindness, if friends.
The canoes came to a halt, when Joliet displayed
the "Wampum," (a token of friendship,) at the
sight of which the warriors lowered their weapons,
and motioned them to come ashore. On landing,
Father Marquette approached the Indians, while
holding aloft in one hand the pipe of peace, and
in the other a small gold cross. The Indians col¬
lected around Marquette, in great astonishment,
offering him many presents to appease the wrath
of the great Manito, from whom they believed
the strangers had come. The travelers left their
canoes, and were conducted to the lodge of the
head chief, Chassagoac, where they were kindly
entertained.
On the following day, at the request of Joliet,
all the Indians of the town were assembled on the
river bank, to hear the good tidings brought by
the strangers. Here Joliet planted a post, on
which he placed the portrait of Louis XIY,
together with a picture of the French coat of
arms. Around this post, seated on the ground,
were about one thousand warriors, while back of
them were standing many thousand squaws and
pappooses. When all was silent, Joliet advanced
toward the post, holding aloft in one hand his
sword, and in the other a sod of earth, proclaim-
Í8 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
ing in a lond voice, " In the name and by the
authority of the most high Christian King of
France, Louis XIY, I take possession of all the
country from Canada to the Pacific, and from the
Lakes to the South Sea, and henceforth it shall be
called New France." At this announcement, all
the Frenchmen fired their guns, and shouted
" Vive le roi y
After completing this ceremony, Joliet ad¬
dressed the Indians as follows : " On this post
you see the picture and coat of arms of the great¬
est chief on earth, whom we call King. He lives
across the big waters, and his domain extends
from sea to sea, and there is no chief like him in
all the world. People from all countries come to
take counsel of him and do his bidding. This
great chief will be your father, and you will be
his children ; he will supply you with beads,
knives, hatchets, &c., and he will protect you
from the attacks of your great enemies, the Iro¬
quois." At the conclusion of Joliet's speech, the
Indians beat their drums, clapped their hands
and shouted with joy.
Father Marquette now came forward and un¬
rolled a canvass, on which was painted a picture
of Christ nailed to the cross. Raising the can¬
vass above his head, so all the warriors could see
the picture, he said, " This is the Savior of the
JOUET AND MARQUETTE.
19
world, who died to redeem all mankind, and is
the ruler of earth and sky." Again the Indians
beat their drums, clapped their hands and shout¬
ed long and loud.
When order was restored, Marquette preached
to the warriors, explaining to them the great
importance of abandoning the religion of their
fathers and embracing Christianity. Chassagoac
the head chief, with many of his friends were
converted under Marquette's preaching and bap¬
tized by him, as members of the Catholic church.
Marquette gave the chief a number of mementoes
consisting of crosses crucifixes, &c., which he
kept about his person for more than fifty years,
and at the time of his death they were buried
with him.
On the third dav the canoes of the travelers
«/
were again on the water, and on reaching Lake
Michigan at the mouth of Chicago river, the
party separated. Joliet with three companions,
continued on his way to Canada to report his dis¬
covery to the Governor ; while Marquette with
two others, went to Green Bay for the purpose of
converting the Indians.
As Joliet was passing down the rapids of St.
Lawrence river, near Montreal, his canoe upset,
and his journal with all other valuables, were
lost.
20 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
These explorers published 110 account of their
travels, and the world was but little wiser for
their journey, except establishing the iact, that the
Mississippi river did not flow into the Pacific
ocean, and Illinois was a rich country.
8TARVED ROCK.
On the south bank of the Illinois river, eight
miles below Ottawa, and near the foot of the
rapids, is a remarkable cliff known as Starved
Rock. This rocky cliff rises almost perpendicular
from the water's edge to the hight of one hundred
and thirty-six feet, and is separated from neigh¬
boring cliffs by a wide chasm, which shows signs
of having been produced by some convulsion of
nature. Three sides of this rock rises like a
watch-tower; but the fourth, next to the bluff,
recedes inward, and at one place can be ascended
by a steep rocky stair-like pathway. Among cre-
vises in the rocks are stunted cedars, and between
these the cactus and mountain ivy grow. The
walls of this cliff are of gray sand-stone, partly
hid with forest trees, and viewed from a distance
has the appearance of an old castle of feudal times.
Starved Rock is of a circular form, and from
every stand-point it has a bold, majestic appear¬
ance. On the north side, next to the river, the
STARVED ROCK.
21
cliff is perpendicular, rising in towering masses,
and, as it were, frowning down on the 'rapid
stream which flows at its base. In some places
the walls are smooth, and thick layers of rock
look like the work of art, while at other places
they are rough with overhanging crags, and under
which are many dark, dismal-looking caverns,
once the abode of wild animals.
A part of the summit of Starved Kock consists
of smooth sand-stone, on which are engraved
many names of visitors, but the larger portion of
it is covered by earth, with grass and small trees
growing thereon. The rock contains an area of
about three-fourths of an acre, and abounds on
all sides with shrubs of evergreens.
Here, by the side of the river stands this high,
isolated rock, the same as it stood centuries ago,
overlooking the broad valley below and the many
wood-clad islands which divide the swift current
of the Illinois, and here it will stand a monument
of the past, and the admiration of the future. Its
bold, towering walls ; its high, majestic summit,
and its isolated position, makes it the most pictu¬
resque object on the Illinois river ; and for histori¬
cal interest it has no equal in the western country.
The view from the summit of Starved Rock is
very fine, and the country in the distance will re¬
mind the beholder of a grand landscape painting
22 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
or a beautiful panorama. To the nortli and west
is seen a large bottom prairie, bounded' on each
side by bluffs covered with forest trees. Through
this great meadow flows the Illinois river, which
can be seen for many miles distant, winding
about in its serpentine course. On looking down
into the river at the base of the rock, catfish and
turtles can be seen sporting over the sand and
rocks in the clear shallow stream ; while shoals of
red-horse are steming the swift current.
In the early settlement of the country, Starved
Rock became a noted land-mark, visited generally
by people traveling through the country, and by
them it was regarded as a great natural curiosity.
Of latter years, it has become a place of resort
for excursion and pic-nic parties from the neigh¬
boring cities, and no one ever visited it without
being captivated with its wild romantic scenery.
By the early French explorers, Starved Rock
was called Le Rocher, and through them it has
figured extensively in the history of western dis¬
coveries. Almost two centuries ago La Salle built
a fort on its summit, the remains of which are
still to be seen ; and around this fort was clustered
the first colony in the valley of the Mississippi.
Two hundred years lias made but little altera¬
tion in the appearance of Starved Rock ; the same
fort-like walls remain, and probably the same
STARVED ROCK.
23
stunted cedars crown its summit, but the sur¬
roundings have undergone a great change. The
great meadow which its summit overlooks, once
covered with grass and wild flowers, and some¬
times blackened with herds of buffalo, is now
occupied by farms in close succession. To the
north, across the large bottom prairie is seen the
village of Utica, with its cement mills and ware¬
houses, and by the side of which, pass the canal
and railroad. To the west, five miles below, but
in plain view are the flourishing cities of LaSalle
and Peru, with their church steeples glittering in
the sunbeams, while steam and canal boats are
seen in the river, and trains of cars passing and
repassing on the different railroads. Evidence of
agriculture, commerce and civilization are now
to be seen from the summit of Starved Rock,
where the scenery was once wild and lonely ; and
here, was also heard the wild war-whoop of
savages while engaged in the bloody strife, leav¬
ing the great meadow below strewn with dead,
the result of an Iroquois victory.
The summit of Starved Rock was, at one time
the abode of gay and joyous Frenchmen, where
balls and wine suppers were held ; and here, too,
was heard, morning and evening, the songs of
praise from the lips of devout Jesuit priests. At
another time it was a scene of strife, carnage and
24 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
desolation, stained with human blood, and covered
with the bodies of the slain. Pleasure parties
now dance on this rock, but they do not consider
that here was once the dance of death—where
the infant, the mother, the young maiden, the
brave warrior, and the aged chief alike suffered
and died.
No spot in the great west is so closely identified
with the early history of the country as Starved
Kock. It was here the first explorers found a
resting-place, and here was the nucleus for the
first settlement in the Mississippi valley.
CHAPTER II.
FATHER MARQUETTE.
A few years ago, while passing through the
Vatican at Rome, my attention was called to a
department entitled, "Portraits of North Ameri¬
can Jesuits." On entering this department, I
noticed a life-sized portrait of a man in the garb
of a priest, with an open bible in his hands, and
a gold cross on his breast. The portrait repre¬
sented a man in the prime of life, tall and well
proportioned, with handsome molded features, and
a countenance beaming with intelligence. At
the foot of the picture was a motto in Latin, and
below it, painted in large Roman letters, was the
name of Father Jacques Marquette, a Jesuit priest
of North America.
Marquette was born at Leon, in the north part
of France, of a wealthy and distinguished family.
He was of fine personal appearance, a strong in¬
tellect, well educated, and while young became a
26 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
magnate in his native city. When at a proper
age he was ordained a priest, and being enthusi¬
astic about the conversion of heathen, he sailed
for America, forsaking home, wealth and friends,
to spend a life among the savages in the western
world.
After remaining a short time at Quebec, Mar¬
quette went west to Lake Huron, where he spent
a number of years among the Indians, instructing
them in the ways of Christianity. While among
the Indians he learned th'eir language, and it is said
that he understood and could speak six different
Indian dialects.
Marquette went to Sault de Sainte Marie, the
outlet of Lake Superior, where Father Allonez
had previously established a mission. For a num¬
ber of years this devout missionary traveled
through the lake country, visiting different Indian
villages, preaching to the natives, and wherever
he went he made many converts to Christianity.
Under his preaching old and young came forward
to join the church ; sometimes baptizing one
hundred or more in a day. His active spirit
could not rest, causing him to travel from place
to place, exposed to inclement weather, wading
through water and snow, spending days without
shelter or fire, subsisting on parched corn or moss,
gathered from rocks. Sometimes paddling his
Discovery of the Mississippi river. 27
canoe up and down stream, or along the lake
shore, and sleeping at night in the open air.
Said Marquette in a letter to a friend in France,
" A life in the wilderness has its charms, and the
rude hut of a savage is better adapted to a true
disciple of Christ, than the palace oí a king. My
heart oftimes swells with rapture as my canoe
glides through strange waters, or while plodding
my way through thick forests, among briars and
thorns, in laboring for the cause of my Redeemer."
Marquette founded a mission at Mackinaw, and
the Indians of different villages along the lake
came thither for religious instruction. He built
here, on the bank of the lake a small chapel dedi¬
cated to St. Ignace, and a few years afterwards
he was buried beneath its floor.
discovery of the mississippi river.
For many years Indians from the far west, on
visiting the French trading post in Canada, spoke
of a great river that flowed into the the ocean ; but
of the course of this river, and what ocean it
emptied into, could not be learned. However, it
was believed to empty into the Pacific ocean ; and
through it a water communication could be ob¬
tained across the continent. The Governor of
Canada, knowing the great advantage to be
28 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
derived from this outlet to the west, selected
Louis Joliet, a Canadian by birth, to make the
necessary discovery.
Early in the spring of 1673, Joliet was furnish¬
ed with the necessary outfit for the voyage, and
was soon prepared to embark on his hazardous
enterprise. Father Marquette, who had acquired
much fame among the Indians, on the shore of
Lake Huron, was selected to accompany this
expedition.
Father Marquette was a devout votary of the
Virgin Mary, and to do her bidding he was will¬
ing to make any sacrifice. His bold nature knew
no fear, and he was prepared to suffer all privations,
endure all hardships, in discovering new lands
and conquering new realms, to the honor and
glory of her Holiness.
Before starting on the tour of discovery, Mar¬
quette wrote to a friend in Quebec, saying : " In
making this voyage I place myself under the pro¬
tection of the Holy Virgin, and if she grants me
the privilege of seeing the great river of the west,
which flows into the Pacific ocean, I will name
it in honor of her, "The Immaculate Conception."
All things being ready, Joliet and Marquette,
aceompained by five companions in two bark
canoes, started 011 their journey. They carried
with them a supply of smoked meat and Indian
DISCOVERY OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. 29
corn, besides a great variety of trinkets for Indian
presents.
After a tempestuous voyage, in coasting along
the lake shore, they arrived at Green Bay, early
in May. Here, at an Indian village they rested
for a few days, and during their stay, Marquette
preached many times to the natives, exhibiting
the picture of the Virgin, Infant Christ, cruci-
ñxion, etc., all of which he explained to them.
On the morning of the third day after their arri¬
val, Marquette was delighted to see a cross raised
in the midst of the village. On this cross were
placed deer and buffalo skins, bows and arrows,
war-clubs, knives, tomahawks, and scalps taken
from the enemy. This cross, said the head chief,
was erected in honor of the great French Manito,
and all the warriors are commanded to bow down
and worship it. On seeing these manifestations
of Christianity, Marquette raised his hands heav¬
enward, and thanked God that these heathen
of the far west had embraced the true religion,
and were therefore, saved from perdition.
After giving the Indians many presents, and
pronouncing a blessing upon them, Father Mar¬
quette and friends, accompanied by an Indian
guide, continued their journey westward. While
rowing their canoes up the rapid current of Fox
river, they reached a village on its banks, whose
30 FKENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
inhabitants advised them to go no further on their
journey, or their lives would be sacrificed. They
told the voyageurs, that the banks of the great
river were inhabited by ferocious tribes, who put
all strangers to death. That the river was full of
frightful monsters, some of which were large
enough to swallow a canoe with all its contents.
They also said that in a high cliff of rocks by the
river side, lived a demon whose roar was so loud
as to shake the earth, and destroy all canoes pass¬
ing up or down the stream ; that the stream was
full of cataracts and whirlpools, which would en¬
gulf them in its foam. These wonderful stories
did not frighten the travelers. So after giving
the Indians a few presents, and putting their trust
in the powers above, continued on their way.
Passing up Fox river, and dragging their canoes
across the portage, they floated down the Wis¬
consin. After journeying many days, the river
bluffs on each side disappeared, opening up to
their view a large plain, while ahead of them was
observed a high range ©f wooded hills. While
viewing the wild scene around them, their canoes
entered the broad Mississippi, and they found
themselves upon the Father of Waters.
The voyageurs landed from their canoes, raised
a cross on the bank of the river, and sang praises
to the Holy Virgin for her guidance and protec-
DISCOVERT OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. 31
tion thus far on their journey. Father Marquette
pronounced a blessing on the river, and christen¬
ed it with the most sacred name of "Immaculate
Conception." After spending one day in fasting
and prayer, their canoes were again put on the
water, and they commenced descending the river.
As they were floating down the stream, they
discovered on the east bank, near where the city
of Alton now stands, a high cliff of rocks rising
from the river edge in bold relief, while its image
was reflected from the clear waters of the Missis¬
sippi. This cliff, for many years afterward, was
known as the " Ruined Castle," and is the site of
a thrilling legend in Indian tradition. On land¬
ing here, they beheld a sight which reminded
them that the devil was lord of the wilderness.
On the surface of the rock, next to the water,
was painted in red, black and green, a pair of
monsters, each of which was as large as an ox,
with horns like an elk, heads like a tiger, and
with frightful expression of countenance. The
face of these monsters resembled that of a man—
the body covered with scales like a fish—and with
tails so long that they reached three times around
the body. These terrible looking monsters (rep¬
resenting Indian gods), so frightened Father Mar¬
quette that he fled from the place in terror, and
hastened on board of his canoe.
B
32 FRENOS AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
As the travelers were passing down the river,
conversing about the hideous painting on the
rock, they were suddenly aroused to real danger.
Here a torrent of dark muddy water came rush¬
ing across the clear current of the Mississippi,
boiling and surging, sweeping in its course logs,
brush and uprooted trees. Their light bark ca¬
noes were whirled about on the dark angry water
like a small twig in a swollen brook, and with
great difficulty their small crafts were kept from
swamping in the foaming billows. They had
passed the mouth of the Missouri river, and with
great rapidity their canoes floated down the rapid
stream.
The travelers descended the Mississippi about
one thousand miles, to its junction with the Ar¬
kansas, when they turned their canoes up stream,
and returned to Canada, as has been previously^
stated.
CHAPTER III.
ILLINOIS INDIANS.
The Illinois Indians were of the Algonquin
family, and consisted of five distinct bands,
named as follows : Kaskaskias, Cahohias, Peorias,
Tamaroas, and Mickgamies. The three former
tribes occupied the villages bearing their respec¬
tive names, and the two latter the country north
of Peoria Lake.
According to the statements of early French
explorers, these Indians were the most numerous
of all the tribes of the west, occupying the coun¬
try from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi
river, and from Rock river to the mouth of the
Ohio, being almost the entire territory now in¬
cluded within the State of Illinois. Over this
vast country herds of buffalo roamed for their
benefit, and the many rivers were navigated by
their bark canoes only. From the numerous
groves the smoke from their camp fires was seen
84 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
to ascend, and the lonely forest re-echoed the
report of their rifles, as well as their wild war
whoops.
They had many towns along the Illinois river,
the largest and principal one was La Vantum,
which was located near the present site of Utica,
an account of which will be given hereafter.
On account of the great abundance of game
(it being known far and near as the buffalo coun¬
try), neighboring tribes frequently made this their
hunting grounds, and although the Illinois In¬
dians were not a warlike people, still they would
resent an encroachment upon their rights, conse¬
quently they were often at war with other tribes.
The Iroquois from the east made frequent raids
on the Illinois Indians, destroying their towns,
killing squaws and pappooses, and carrying away
large quantities of pelts and furs, which they sold
to French and English traders.
According to tradition, the Iroquois, in one of
these raids, carried off eight hundred prisoners,
principally squaws and pappooses, and burned
them at their village on the bank of Seneca Lake.
The Iroquois Indians having been in trade with
the Dutch at Albany, and the French in Canada,
had armed themselves with guns, which gave
them great advantage over the Illinois, who used
bows and arrows only. These war parties of the
LA VANTUM, OR GREAT ILLINOIS TOWN. 35
Iroquois created so much terror among the Illi¬
nois, that they would flee at their approach
without offering to give them battle. On account
of these frequent raids, the Illinois were much
reduced in numbers, which caused them to fall an
easy prey to the neighboring tribes some years
afterwards.
A little over a century ago, a number of tribes
combined, forming an alliance against the Illi¬
nois, which resulted in their annihilation, and the
occupation of their country by their enemies, as
will be shown in the sequel.
LA VANTUM, OR GREAT ILLINOIS TOWN.
The name of La Yantum was applied to the
great town of Illinois Indians, more than a cen¬
tury ago, by the French and half-breeds at Peoria.
The origin of the name is not known, but is said
to be a combination of a French and Indian word,
and means a great place, a large town, capital of
the tribe, &c. In letters written by Jesuits and
early explorers, it is spoken of as the great town
of the west, and the chiefs of other villages met
here for council. Joliet called this place Kaskas-
kia, but by La Salle and subsequent explorers, it
was known as the great Illinois town. According
to the statements of early explorers, this was the
36 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
largest town in the western country, being the
headquarters of the Illinois Indians, and the seat
of their trade. The number of its inhabitants
have been variously estimated, ranging from five
to eight thousand. Marquette says he found
here five hundred chiefs and old warriors, and
fifteen hundred braves or young warriors. Seven
years afterward Father Hennepin counted four
hundred and sixty-eight lodges, and these con¬
tained from two to four families each. Other ac¬
counts are given of it as being a large town,
occupying the river bank for more than a mile,
and extending back some distance on the prairie.
This great Indian town of the west has long
since disappeared, and like many of the ruined
cities of the old world, history and tradition alike
fail to point out its exact location. Some have
located it a little below Buffalo Rock, and others
near the mouth of Little Yermillion, as many In¬
dian relics are found at both of these places. But
in comparing the different accounts given of this
town, from its first discovery by Joliet to the
time of its final destruction, a period of near one
hundred years, it is shown conclusively to have
stood on or near the present site of old Utica.
History says it was on the north bank of the river,
in plain view of Fort St. Louis, and the French
passed to and from it in their canoes.
LA VANTUM, OK GREAT ILLINOIS TOWN. 37
On the north side of the river is a large bottom
prairie, about nine miles in length and one in
breadth, extending from the river to the bluff,
and from the mouth of Little Vermillion to Buf¬
falo Rock. Near the middle of this prairie, and
a few hundred yards below the rapids, the river
is confined into a deep, narrow channel. Here
the bank rises gradually from the water's edge
until it reaches the high land in the rear, forming
a sloping plateau, which is elevated above the
floods of the Illinois, and for beauty of location
is scarcely surpassed by any place on the river.
Forty years ago this point was considered the
head of navigation, and consequently the terminus
of the Illinois and Michigan canal. In 1834 a
town was laid off here by Simon Crozier, and
everybody prophesied that it was destined to be
a large city. Steamboats at St. Louis put out
their sign for Utica, and travelers for the lake
country and eastward bound, would land here,
and thence proceed by stage to Chicago. Corn
is now raised on this town site, two or three old
dilapidated buildings only remain of this once
great paper city, and Utica, like its predecessor,
La Vantum, exists only in history.
Felix La Pance, a French trader at Peoria,
frequently visited this town, it being on his route
to and from Canada. And he traded with these
88 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Indians from 1751 to 1768, taking their furs with
him on his annual trip to Canada, and paying for
them in goods on his return. Some account of
this town is found among his papers in the pos¬
session of his descendants, who are now living on
the American Bottom. This account says the
town contained from five to six hundred lodges,
standing along the river bank for more than a
mile in extent. Back on the prairie were a large
number of wigwams, or camping tents, occupied
part of the year by people from the neighboring
villages, who came here each year to raise corn.
The town contained from five to eight thousand
inhabitants, but at the time of holding their an¬
nual feast, nearly all the Illinois nations collected
here. On the river bank, about the middle of the
town, stood their great council-house, surrounded
by stockades and various kinds of fortifications.
The town was shaded by a tew out-spreading
oaks, in the midst of which, and close to the river
bank, was a large spring of cold water. No trees
are here at the present time, but there might
have been in former days, and killed by fire on the
prairie after the town was abandoned. The spri ng
spoken of by La Pance cannot be found on the
old town site, but whoever will take the trouble
to examine the river at this point when it is lów,
will observe a short distance from shore the bub-
LA VANTUM, OR GREAT ILLINOIS TOWN. 39
bles from a spring under water. Waba, an Indian
chief, who was raised in a village near the mouth
of Fox river, said to one of the fur traders, while
speaking of this town : In his boyhood days there
was here by the side of the trail a large spring of
cold water, and Indians in passing back and forth
would stop here to drink, but afterwards it disap¬
peared and came out under the river.
A short distance from the river, and back of the
old town site, is a range of gravelly knolls, where
the Indians had their caches or subterranean store¬
houses, for depositing corn. The remains of
these caches were plain to be sèen in the early
settlement of the country, and in a few instances
these relics still exist. On the bottom prairie,
above and below the town, for miles in extent, lay
their corn-fields, and east of these was their race¬
course, which could be traced out in the early
settlement of the country. Forty years ago this
prairie showed unmistakable signs of having been
cultivated. Weeds were found growing here,
which botanists say are never found on the prairie,
except where the sod has been broken*
*It is said that the indlans from the neighboring villages came
here during the summer to raise corn, as the land was thought
to produce better crops than elsewhere. The French occupied
this place for thirty-six years, and many of them lived in the
town with the Indians, and were more or less engaged In agri¬
cultural pursuits, which may account for the large amount of
land under cultivation.
40 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
The high land above and below the town site
appears to have been used as a burying ground,
on which many skeletons have been exhumed,
and various kinds oí relics found. James Clark,
who owns a large farm here, says every year small
pieces of human bones, teeth, beads, arrow heads,
&c., as well as implements of Indian and Euro¬
pean manufacture, are plowed up. Here in this
burying ground, in all probability, many thousand
human beings found a long resting place, and the
bones of posterity mingled with those of their
ancestors. And here are still to be seen a number
of artificial mounds, supposed to have been erected
over the remains of chiefs or great warriors of
past ages. About sixty years ago Waba, a noted
Indian chief, opened two of these mounds, from
which he took a number of valuable trinkets,
consisting of gold and silver medals, crosses,
crucifixes, &c. Among the trinkets found here
was a silver medallion head of Louis XIY, bearing
date 1670, three years before Marquette visited
this place, and in all probability it was given to a
convert by that holy father.
Here at this great town a large portion of the
Illinois Indians would collect during the summer
for the purpose of fishing and raising corn, and
here were held their annual religious feasts and
war dances. During the winter months the In-
LA VANTÜM, OR GREAT ILLINOIS TOWN.
41
dians would leave their town for Lake Weno,
situated about one day's journey westward, for
the purpose of eollecting furs, and return to their
village in early spring.*
♦According to Indian tradition, there was a lake about nine
leagues west of the great bend in the Illinois river, where the
Indians went each winter to collect furs. The Indians called it
Lake Weno, (a place of much game), and many allusions are
made to it by the iirst French fur traders.
No such lake now exists, but it is quite probable that there
was one in former times, along the valley of Green river, as
many things are found here to make this theory plausible-
There is a place in Henry county which shows marks of having
been a natural dam or obstruction of the river, causing the
valley above to be inundated Many things indicate that a large
portion of Green river valley was once covered with water,
forming a l«ke thirty miles or more in length, and from one to
three in width. The boundaries of this lake are now plain to
be seen, by peculiar stratas of earth, which geologists assert are
never found except where water once stood. On both sides of
the river, along sloughs and small streams, are seen the remains
of beaver dams, which are so common on the margin ol west¬
ern lakes.
When the government surveys were made along the valley
of Green river, in the year 1821, those having charge of it re¬
turned in their notes and so platted many lakes where section
corners could not be made, and in maps drawn at that time is
shown almost a complete sheet of water. Many places
along this valley, which were covered with water in the early
settlement of the country, are now only marsh land, subject to
occasional overflow, and in time will be brought under cultiva¬
tion. The obstruction in the river below having worn down by
time, and the valley filling up by washings, would cause the
lake to disappear and leave it as now seen.
Weno Lake is said to have abounded with beaver, otter and
muskrat ; the two latter were plenty here in the early settle¬
ment of the country, but the former had disappeared.
CHAPTER IV.
THE CROSS RAISED ON THE BANK OF CHICAGO RIVER.
Father Marquette remained at Green Bay but
a short time, his health being bad, and the Win¬
nebago Indians with whom he sojourned were
unwilling to abandon the religion of their fathers
for that of Christianity. It being impressed on
the mind of Marquette that his stay on earth
would be short, and before departing hence he
felt it his duty to again visit the Illinois Indians,
and among them establish a mission in honor of
the Holy Virgin.
Late in November Marquette left Green Bay,
accompanied by two of his countrymen, Pierre
and Jacques, together with two Winnebago
Indians. The weather was cold, the winds high,
and it was with great difficulty they coasted along
the western shore of Lake Michigan. Frequently
the travelers would be compelled to land from the
The ceoss raised on ohicago river. 43
turbulent water, draw their canoe on the beach,
and wait for the winds and waves to subside.
After a long perilous voyage on Lake Michigan,
the travelers reached the mouth of Chicago river,
and ascended it about three leagues to a grove of
timber above the present site of Bridgeport.
Here Marquette was taken very sick, so the party
could go no further on their way until he recov¬
ered. Winter now set in, the river froze up, and
the prairie and groves were covered with snow
and ice. Near the river bank the companions of
Marquette built a hut, covering and siding it with
buffalo skins, and here they lived about three
months.
Buffalo and deer were plenty, and the Indians
from a neighboring village supplied them with
corn, honey and maple sugar, so they did not lack
Ibr the necessaries of life- For many days Mar¬
quette was prostrated by disease so he could not
rise from his couch, and his friends believed that
his time of departure was nigh. Having a great
desire to establish a mission among the Indians
before he died, he begged his two companions—
Pierre and Jacques—to join him in nine days'
devotion to the Virgin, and through her inter¬
position his disease relented, and he gained
strength daily.
Indians from a village two leagues distant,
44 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
frequently visited their hut, and Marquette, feeble
as he was, preached to them, and by the power of
his eloquence many became Christians. Near
their hut they built of cottonwood poles a tempo¬
rary altar, and over which was raised a large
wooden cross. The converted Indians were
taught to look upon this cross while praying, and
thereby all their sins were remitted. Many mir¬
acles are said to have been wrought among the
Indians by looking upon this sacred talisman—
the blind were made to see and the sick restored
to health. For many days the Indians continued
to worship at the altar, Father Marquette
preaching and laying his hands on their
heads, would bestow his blessing on them. A
beloved chief, who for years had been afflicted
with a demon in his back, so lie could not raise
from his couch, was carried to Marquette, and
when the holy father laid his hands upon him, in
the name of the Virgin, the demon departed and
the chief was restored to health.
In March the country was flooded with water,
and Marquette's health being partially restored,
they put their canoe on the river and contiuued
their journey westward. Although Marquette
was gone, his magic power over the Indians re¬
mained. They hallowed the spot where the altar
stood, and when the rude structure rotted down,
THE CROSS RAISED ON CHICAGO RIVER. 45
they erected an earthen mound on its site, so the
spot should not be forgotten by coming genera¬
tions. Although two centuries have passed away,
this mound is still to be seen, and among the
French and Indians there are many remarkable
traditions in relation to it. The Indians from
different villages, according to tradition, were in
the habit of collecting here once a year—on the
fifth day of the tenth moon—and offer up prayers
and sacrifices to the Great Manito of the French,
in order that they might be successful in war,
fishing, hunting, &c.
About fifty years after Marquette liad raised
the cross here, Charlevoix, with a party of French
explorers, visited this country, and while rowing
their canoes up the Chicago river they found col¬
lected on this spot a large body of Indians,
engaged in devotional exercises. On the mound
stood a wooden cross, partly covered with a bear
skin, and around it the Indians were kneeling in
prayer. Charlevoix and friends landed from
their canoes, and spent the day worshiping with
the Indians, and to them Father Canabe, a Jesuit
priest, administered the sacrament.*
*In the early settlement of Chicago, this place was known to
many of the French Catholics, some of whom visited it in
memory of its sainted founder—Father Marquette. This place
was the scene of another remarkable incident, which will ap¬
pear In another part of this book.
46 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILL1N0Î8 RIVER.
MISSION OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION.
The winter was now over, snow and ice had
disappeared from the prairies, and the warm sun
of early spring not only animated nature, but it
gave strength and vitality to Father Marquette.
His cough had almost ceased ; his tall, manly
form, which had been bent by rheumatism, was
now erect, and he sang songs of praise to the
Holy Virgin for his restoration to health. After
taking an affectionate farewell of the Indians,
Marquette, with his two companions, left in their
bark canoe for the great Illinois town.
With sail and oars the voyageurs urged their
canoe down the Illinois river, while the surround¬
ing woods re-echoed their songs of praise. Birds
were singing among the branches of trees, squir¬
rels chirping in the groves, while elk and deer
bounded away at the sound of the approaching
canoe. Swans, pelicans and wild geese would
rise from the water and fly squawking down
stream, while beaver and otter were sporting in
the river, and diving under their canoe. Far and
near the prairie was covered with buffalo, some
basking in the sun, while others were feeding 011
the early spring grass. Morning and evening
long lines of buffalo were seen coming to the
river to drink, sometimes swimming the stream
MISSION OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. 47
or climbing the banks and shaking the water from
their shaggy sides, while gazing wildly at the
passing canoe.
When Marquette arrived at La Yantum, the
Indians received him as though he was an angel
from heaven, some of whom fell on their knees
before him, asking forgiveness for past sins.
Chassagoac, the head chief, who Marquette had
baptized the year before, was so delighted at meet¬
ing the holy father that he embraced him and
wept for joy.
On the day following Marquette's arrival, all the
Indians, both old and young, assembled on the
meadow above the town to hear good tidings
from the great French Manito, (the name given
to Jesus Christ). Around Marquette were seated
on the ground five hundred old chiefs and war¬
riors, and behind them stood fifteen hundred
young braves, while back of these were collected
all the squaws and pappooses of the town. Mar¬
quette, standing in the midst of this vast assembly,
displayed to them two pictures painted on canvas,
one of the Virgin and the other of Jesus Christ,
telling them of God, of heaven, and of hell,
when all the Indians clapped their hands and
shouted for joy. By direction of Marquette, the
Indians tore down the temple and images erected
to the god of war, and built a chapel on its site,
o
48 FRÜítOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
This chapel was constructed by setting poles in
the ground, siding and covering it with elk and
deer skins. Notwithstanding it was very large—
capable of holding one thousand or more persons
—so many workmen were employed that it was
completed on the third day. When the house of
God was ready for use, all the chiefs and old
warriors assembled therein, when Marquette ded¬
icated it in-honor of the Holy Virgin, giving it
the same name that he had already given to the
Mississippi river—" The Immaculate Conception."
Every day the chapel was ñlled with Indians,
and Marquette preached to them, calling on the
warriors to forsake the religion of their fathers
and embrace Christianity. Many came forward
and joined the church, and one hundred or
more were baptized at a time. Fora number of
weeks Marquette preached daily to the Indians,
baptizing and instructing them in the ways of
Christianity.
On Easter Sunday the chapel was decorated
with evergreens, representing crosses, anchors,
crucifixes, &c. Incense was burned on the altar,
and lights were kept burning during the day, ac¬
cording to the custom of the Catholic church.
The woods far and near had been searched for
geese and turkey eggs, which were beautifully
colored and distributed among the converts, in
MISSION OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION. 49
commemoration of Christ's resurrection. The day
was a joyous one for the Indians, and it was long
remembered by them, but with it ended the
ministry of Marquette among the red men of the
west.
Spring had now come ; the groves were once
more green, and the prairie was covered with grass
and flowers, but it did not bring health and vigor
to the fast-failing priest. His disease had again
returned in its worst form, and he felt that his life
was fast pas'sing away. After spending two days
and nights in prayer, communing with Christ and
the Holy Yirgin, he concluded to return to Can¬
ada, where he could receive the sacrament from
the hands of his brethren before he died.
On the third week after Easter, the Indians
were assembled in the chapel, when Marquette,
pale and feeble as he was, instructed them in the
ways of Christianity, telling them that he was
about to depart for Canada, but promised to send
a priest to teach them in the ways of salvation.
The Indians heard the news in sadness, gathering
around the holy father, and begged him to remain
with them. But he told them that his work was
ended—that a few weeks would close his pilgrim¬
age here on earth, and before he departed hence
he desired to return to Canada, and there leave his
bones among his countrymen.
50 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Marquette's cauoe was once more put on the
water, and with his two faithful companions he
commenced his journey eastward. About five hun¬
dred warriors, some in canoes and others mounted
on ponies, accompanied Marquette as far as Lake
Michigan, and then received from him the parting
blessing.
Afiter parting with the Indians, Marquette's
canoe started around the head of the lake, and
with sail hoisted and oars applied, they coasted
along the southern shore with the expectation of
reaching Canada in about five weeks. Pierre
and Jacques with all their power plied the oars
to increase their speed, while the sick priest lay
prostrated in the bottom of the canoe, communing
with the Virgin and with angels.
DEATH OF MARQUETTE.
When near the mouth of St. Joseph river,
Marquette felt that his time had come, and he
told his companions to land him on the beach of
the lake, in order that he might receive the
sacrament before he died. On a high piece of
land, at the mouth of a small stream which still
bears his name, they built a bark shanty, and
carried thither the dying priest. With his eyes
fixed on a crucifix, which one of his companions
DEATH OF MARQUETTE.
51
held before him, and while murmuring the name
of Mary and Jesus, he breathed his last. His
companions dug a grave on the bank of the stream,
near the spot where he died, and buried him
there. In obedience to his request, they erected
a large cross, made of basswood timber, over his
grave, on v^hich was engraved his name and date
of his death. After burying Marquette, Pierre
and Jacques again put their canoe on the lake
and continued their journey toward Canada, con¬
veying thither the sad news of his death.
Three years after Marquette's death, a party oí
Indians of Mackinaw, who had been converted to
Christianity some years before under his preach¬
ing, went to Lake Michigan, opened the grave,
and took up his remains. After washing and
drying the bones, they placed them in a box made
of birch bark and carried them to Mackinaw. With
the remains of the holy father they turned their
canoes homeward, singing and chanting praises
as they went along. Seven miles above Mackinaw
they were met by a large delegation of Indians in
canoes, who formed a procession to escort the
remains to the mission. With their faces blacked,
oars muffled, and singing a funeral dirge, the pro¬
cession slowly approached the mission, and were
met at the landing by priest, traders and Indians,
all of whom wore badges of mourning. With
52 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
a solemn ceremony the remains of Father Mar¬
quette were received at the mission, and buried
beneath the little chapel of St. Ignace, which he
had built some years before. On the following
day Father Allonez preached to the Indians col¬
lected here, and a large number of them embraced
Christianity and were baptized.
Two centuries have now passed away 6ince the
burial of Marquette, and long since the little
chapel of St. Ignace has gone to decay, but the
spot where it stood was hallowed by the French
and converted Indians, and is now pointed out to
strangers.
For many years after the death of Marquette,
the French sailors on the lakes kept his picture
nailed to the mast-head as a guardian angel, and
when overtaken by a storm they would pray to
the holy father, beseeching him to calm the wind
and still the troubled waters, in order that they
might reach port in safety.
CHAPTER V.
THE GREAT EXPLORER OF THE WEST.
Seven years after Joliet and Marquette discov¬
ered the upper Mississippi, La Salle obtained a
patent from the king of France, authorizing him
to explore and take possession of all the country
west of the great lakes. La Salle's success and
failures in this enterprise is a matter of history,
and foreign to our purpose, but as his name ap¬
pears in connection with many incidents, a few
facts relating to him may be of interest to the
reader.
Robert Cavalier (La Salle being a title only)
was born in the year 1643, in the city of Rouen,
of wealthy parentage, and was educated for the
priesthood. In person he is said to have been
large and muscular, possessing a fine intellect, an
iron constitution, and well qualified for the enter¬
prise in which he embarked. He inherited from
his ancestors a large fortune, which was used in
advancing his enterprise, but was squandered in
54 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
consequence of misplaced confidence in those
with whom he associated. Although La Salle
made his mark in history, his life was one of
hardships, exposure and deprivations, and he
finally died by the hand of an assassin in the
wilds of Texas.
A few years ago, while strolling through the
city of Rouen, my guide pointed out an old
palace standing on high ground, and overlooking
the river Seine. For beauty of architecture and
antique appearance, this palace has no equal in
the old Norman capital. This old palace, said
my guide, was once the residence of the duke of
Normandy, afterwards known as William the
Conqueror, and from its portico this great warrior
addressed his lords and nobles on the day he left
Normandy for the conquest of England. In this
palace, continued my guide, now lives Count
Cavalier, a descendant of the family of La Salle.
Two squares distant from here is an antique look¬
ing house, pointed out as the birth place, and for
some time the residence of the great explorer,
La Salle, and is still occupied by his family de¬
scendants.
LA SALLE AND PARTY WESTWARD BOUND.
In the summer of 1669, La Salle built a vessel
on Niagara river, above the falls, for the purpose
55 LA SALLE AND PARTY WESTWARD BOUND.
of navigating the upper lakes. This vessel was
of sixty tons burden, carrying lateen-sails, an,d
named the Griffin. It was armed with a number
of small cannon, and a large wooden eagle sur¬
mounted its prow. On the day of departure the
vessel was visited by a large body of Indians, who
were astonished at this great canoe, as they called
it, as nothing like it had ever been seen on the
upper lakes before. Father Hennepin preached
to these Indians from the deck of the Griffin,
when they clapped their hands, shouting and yell¬
ing in response to his words, and offered him
presents to be used as sacrifices to the great
Manito of the French*
All things being ready, the cannons fired a
salute, the sails were spread to the breeze, and
the Griffin moved forward, plowing through the
maiden waves of Lake Brief
•An ingenious Frenchman painted on canvas a colossal pic¬
ture of a griffin, according to Grecian mythology. This monster
had the body of a lion, with the wings of an eagle, representing
strength and swiftness. This picture (the motto of the vessel)
was stretched between the masts, and the Indians mistook it for
the French Manito or god,so they bowed down and worshiped it.
fin La Salle's party was an Italian officer, second in command,
named Tonti, who figures extensively in our narrative, and a
short account of whom will be found elsewhere. In this party
were also three Jesuit priests, Louis Hennepin, Gabriel Re-
bourde and Zenobe Membre. The former of these priests is
known in history by his surname, and the two latter by their
given names.
56 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
After a number of days sail, the vessel passed
through a small lake, which La Salle gave the
name of St. Clair, in honor of that saint whose
name appeared that day in the calendar. On the
following day, after passing Lake St. Clair, they
were overtaken by a terrible storm, which threat¬
ened the vessel with destruction, and all on board
believed their time had come. The rolling of
the vessel and lashing of the waves, caused
the sailors to hold fast to the bulwarks to pre¬
vent being carried overboard. Father Hennepin
in his journal says that he joined with others in
fervent prayer to St. Anthony, making a solemn
vow to that saint if he would deliver them from
their peril with which they were surrounded, the
first chapel built in the new discovered country
should be dedicated to him. The saint heard
their prayers—the wind calmed, and the Grifiin
continued on her way, while plunging through the
foaming billows.
After a voyage of four weeks, the Grifiin ar¬
rived at Mackinaw, and was safely moored in the
harbor of St. Ignace. Here at the straits of Mack¬
inaw was an Indian village, a Jesuit mission, and
the seat of a large fur trade. Both French and
Indians collected around the vessel in great as¬
tonishment, as nothing larger than a bark canoe
was ever seen there before. The goods brought
57 LA SALLE AND PARTY WESTWARD BOUND.
by the Griffin were exchanged tor furs at a large
profit, and the vessel, loaded with pelts, started
back for Niagara, but was never heard of after¬
wards.*
Late in November La Salle, accompanied by
fourteen persons, left Mackinaw in four canoes, and
coasted along the shore of Lake Michigan in a
southern direction. They carried with them a
blacksmith's forge, carpenter tools, and other
utensils required in building a fort, besides a large
amount of merchandise to trade with the Indians.
On the second day out, they were overtaken
by a storm, which compelled them to land, drag
their canoes on the beach, and there remain four
days for the angry waters to subside. Again trust¬
ing their frail barks to the waters of Lake Michi¬
gan, they found themselves on the following day
overtaken by a severe gale, and amid the lashing
of waves their canoes drifted on a barren, rocky
island, some distance from the main land. Here
on this rocky island they remained two days and
nights, without shelter or fire, and their blankets
alone protected them from the cold winter blast.
♦The fate of the Griffin was never known. Some thought
she perished in a gale, others that she was burned by the In¬
dians, and the crew put to death. But La Salle believed that
the crew, after disposing of the 1'urs and pelts for their own
benefit, burned the vessel and fled the country to escape pun¬
ishment.
58 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
When the wind and waves subsided, they again
continued their journey, but a new trouble over¬
took them. Having been so long on the water,
their stock of provisions became exhausted, and
three of the party went in search of an Indian
village, in order to obtain a supply. On the fol¬
lowing day a large party of Indians came to their
camp, bringing with them corn and venison,
which they exchanged for goods. These Indians
encamped near the French, and during the night
amused them with songs and dances.
It was cold weather when the travelers reached
the mouth of St. Joseph river, and here they
remained for a few days waiting for Tonti and his
companions. On the arrival of Tonti the party,
consisting of thirty-five persons in bark canoes,
commenced ascending St. Joseph river.*
♦History says the Griffln went to Green Bay, and from there
La Salle and companions started in their canoes for Illinois-
But this is not probable, as there was no trading post at Green
Bay at that time, and it was not likely that the vessel would go
any further west than trade had gone. If the voyageurs had
landed at Green Bay, they would have followed along the west¬
ern shore of Lake Michigan to the mouth of Chicago river:
ascending that stream, and down the Des Plaines to Illinois.
This route was known at the time to the French, as-Joliet and
Marquette passed over it seven years before. La Salle and party
could not have crossed Lake Michigan in their cnnoes, and it is
highly improbable that they followed around its southern end,
as it would be out of their course.
Two years before this expedition, Father Allonez established
a mission at the mouth of St. Joseph's river, and at this point
59 LA SALLE AND PARTY WESTWARD BOUND.
On arriving at or near the present site of South
Bend, they stopped to search for the path which
led across the portage to the head waters of Kan¬
kakee. While thus engaged, La Salle lost his
reckoning, and in the thick forest he rambled
about all day and a part of the night, during a
severe snow storm. Many times he fired his gun
as a signal to his friends, but received from them
no response. About two o'clock in the morning
he discovered through the thick undergrowth a
gleam of light, and he hastened thither, supposing
it to be his camp, but was disappointed at finding
no one there. By the side of the fire was a bed
made of dry grass and leaves, which was still
warm, the occupant having been frightened away
at his approach. La Salle called out in different
Indian dialects, but received no reply, so he laid
down on the deserted bed and slept until morn¬
ing. The former occupant of this bed was never
known, but supposed to have been an Indian
hunter.
they expected to meet Tonti with twenty men, who came from
Macki naw by land. It is said Tonti and his party got lost among
thick forests and lakes of Michigan, and did not reaeh their
destination for some time after La Salle's arrival.
There is an old traditionary acount of this affair, which says
La Salle and party were afraid to trust their frail barks again
on the angry waters of the lake in mid winter, after their past
experience, and therefore went by the way of St. Joseph and
Kankakee rivers.
60 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
The friends of La Salle were very much alarmed
at his long absence, and during the night they
fired guns and beat their drum in order to direct
him to camp, but without effect. They had about
given him up as lost, when about four o'clock on
the following day they saw him approaching the
camp with two opossums hanging from his belt.*
The canoes were carried across the portage, five
miles in width, put on the water oí the Kanka¬
kee, and floated down that stream and the Illinois
river to La Vantum, the great town of Illinois.
It was now mid winter, and they found the town
deserted, its occupants having gone off on their
winter hunt, in accordance with their custom.
Being in a starving condition, La Salle ordered
one of the caches opened, and took therefrom
twenty minots of corn, hoping at some future
time to compensate the Indians for this robbery.
After spending two days in the desolate lodges
of the town, the party again boarded their canoes
and continued on their way down the river.
About five leagues below La Vantum, at the
mouth of a stream—supposed to have been Bureau
creek—the voyageurs landed and sent out a party
to hunt buffalo. The hunters were successful in
their search, and on coming up with a large herd
•" Parkman's Discovery of the Qreat West."
61 LA SALLE AND PARTY WE8TWARD BOUND.
of buffalo, a short distance from the river ; they
killed two of them and returned to camp with
the meat. This supply of meat, with the corn
they took from the Indian store-house, drove
hunger from their camp,and the three priests joined
in returning thanks to the Holy Virgin for thus
providing for their wants, while journeying
through this wild wilderness country.
The following day being New Year, 1680, it
was agreed to spend it in camp worshiping, saying
mass, and taking sacrament in accordance to an
old custom in the Catholic Church.
Before leaving Canada, Father Hennepin pro¬
vided himself with a miniature altar, which folded
up like an army chair, and could be carried on
the back the same as a knapsack. With this altar
on his back, Father Hennepin started off through
the woods in search of a suitable place for wor¬
ship, followed by the other priests and the rest of
the party. A place was selected, the altar erected,
and the holy father preached to his companions,
causing the woods to resound with his loud ex¬
hortations and songs of praise. After preaching
and saying mass, the sacred emblems were placed
by the side of the altar, preparatory to taking the
sacrament. But great was Father Hennepin's
surprise to find the wine vessel empty, as one of
the party, a blacksmith by trade, and nicknamed
62 FEENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVER.
La Forge, had drank it up while on the road.
For this act of sacrilege, Father Hennepin pro¬
nounced against him a curse, equal to the one
Pope Leo pronounced against Martin Lather for
publishing the Bible.
THE FEENOH AT PEORIA LAKE.
According to history, 011 the 3d of January,
1680, the inhabitants of an Indian village situated
on the west bank of Peoria Lake, were much
surprised to see eight canoes filled with armed
men opposite their town. The canoes were all
abreast, presenting a formidable appearance, and
the men seated in them held guns in their hands,
ready for an attack or defence. These canoes
rounded to and landed at the village, causing a
great panic among the Indians, some of whom
fled in terror, while others seized their arms and
prepared to defend themselves. Amid the con¬
fusion that followed, La Salle sprang ashore, and
presented to the astonished Indians the calumet,
(a token of friendship), while Father Hennepin
caught several frightened children and soothed
their fears with kindness and small presents.
The French pitched their tent in the Indian
village, and remained for some days. But dis-
LA SALLE AND PAKTY WESTWARD BOUND. 63
contentment among the men, and fearing treach¬
ery of the Indians, caused La Salle to remove to
a place of greater security. A site was selected,
a fort built, and all the valuables at their camp
transferred thereto. On account of the gloomy
prospects, the discontentment and desertion of
some of the men, La Salle named this fort Creve
Ceour, which in the French language means
broken heart.*
Fort Creve Ceour consisted of stockades, en¬
closing a small plat of ground, and within which
were a number of log cabins—quarters for officers
and soldiers. Father Hennepin lamented the loss
of wine, which prevented him from administering
the sacrament, but each morning and evening all
the occupants of the fort were summoned to his
cabin for prayer. Father Gabriel and Zenobe
spent most of their time in the Indian village,
preaching to and instructing the natives in the
ways of Christianity, but they made but few
proselytes.
About the first of February Father Hennepin,
in a canoe, accompanied by two companions, left
the fort on a voyage of discovery. Passing down
♦The exact location of this fort is not known, but it is believed
to have stood on the east side of the river, about three miles
below the outlet of thfe lake, at a place now called Wesley.
This place answers the description given by Hennepin, and
also accords with traditionary accounts.
D
64 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
to the mouth of the Illinois river, they ascended
the Mississippi as far as the falls of St. Anthony.
Here Hennepin was made a prisoner by the In¬
dians, and remained with them some months, but
was finally set at liberty, reached Canada in safety,
returned to France and published a book of his
travels.
Early in the spring La Salle returned to Can¬
ada to procure men and supplies, leaving Tonti
in command of the fort. A short time after La
Salle's departure, all the soldiers except three
deserted their post, ascending the river in canoes,
and coasting around the shore of Lake Michigan
they reached Mackinaw in safety. Tonti, being
left with the two priests and three soldiers, aban¬
doned the tort, and it was never occupied
afterwards.
CHAPTER VI.
HENBI DE TONTI.
Among the many adventurers who accompanied
La Salle to America and took part in exploring
the wilds of the west, was an Italian of noble
birth by the name of Henri de Tonti. Some
years before, young Tonti, with his father's family,
were banished from Italy, on account of having
taken part in a revolution of that country, and they
found a home in Rouen, France. Tonti, having
a military education, joined the French army, and
served five years, a part of the time as captain, in
the National Guards. At the close of the war
he was discharged from service, came to America
and joined La Salle in his enterprise. La Salle
made Tonti his lieutenant, or second in command,
and the sequel shows that he was worthy of the
trust placed in him.
Tonti's right hand having been shot off in the
Sicilian war, its place was supplied with an iron
one, which he kept always covered with a glove.
66 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
With this iron hand, Tonti, on different occasions,
broke the heads or knocked out the teeth of dis¬
orderly Indians, which caused them to believe
that lie possessed supernatural power.
Tonti brought with him from France a large
sum of money, which he used in common with
La Salle in exploring and taking possession of the
west, as well as in trade with the Indians.
The late Dr. Sparks says history never can do
ample justice to Tonti. His life was one of patri¬
otism and self-sacrifice, and the discovery and
taking possession of the great west belong mainly
to him.
Forty years of Tonti's life was spent in the
wilds of the west, enduring hardships, dangers,
and deprivations, associating with savages, and
without the benefits and comforts of civilization.
His fortune sacrificed—his health and manhood
destroyed—he became a wanderer along the gulf
of Mexico, but at last returned to die at Fort St.
Louis, and Iiis bones now rest on the bank of the
Illinois river, at the west end of Starved Rock.
In one of the Louvre picture galleries in Paris,
can be seen a full-length portrait of a youthful
looking man, dressed in French uniform, with
epaulets on his shoulders and an eagle 011 his
breast. His left hand holds a sword, while the
left presents a singular appearance, as though
THE FRENCH AT LA VANTUM.
67
deformed, but is hidden by a glove. This tall,
graceful figure, and the piercing black eyes, never
fails to attractfthe attention of strangers, and in¬
quiry would naturally arise for the history of the
person here represented. Below this portrait is
painted in large letters the name—"Henri de
Tonti, la voyageur des Amérique
THE FRENCH AT LA VANTUM.
After most of the soldiers had deserted from
Fort Creve Ceour, Tonti, with those remaining,
consisting of Father Gabriel, Father Zenobe and
three soldiers, abandoned the place. All the
valuables in the fort were put into two canoes,
and the party ascended the river as far as La
Vantum. Here they found quarters among the
Indians, with the intention of awaiting La Salle's
return from Canada. Tonti applied himself in
learning the Indian language—the two priests
were engaged in preaching to the natives—while
the soldiers were spending the honeymoon with
their squaws, whom they had recently married.
About three miles from the town, in the midst
of a thick grove of timber, Father Gabriel and
Zenobe erected a temporary altar, and every third
day they repaired thither for prayer and medita¬
tion. Here in this lonely spot, far away from the
68 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIYER.
noise and bustle of the town, the two holy Friars
would spend long summer days, from early morn¬
ing until late at night, communing with the Vir¬
gin, saints and angels.
Notwithstanding these priests preached and
prayed with these Indians almost daily, promising
them success in war, hunting, &c., if they would
embrace Christianity, but few converts were made.
Chassagoac, the head chief, having embraced the
Christian religion seven years before, under the
preaching of Father Marquette, still continued
in the faith. The chief, his household, and a few
of his friends, had taken the sacrament from the
hands of the priests, but all the other chiefs and
principal warriors denounced Christianity, ad¬
hering to the religion of their fathers.
The wine brought from Canada for sacramental
purposes having been drank by La Forge, as pre¬
viously stated, it became necessary to procure a
substitute, as the administration of the sacred
rights could not be dispensed with. During the
winter the priests gathered a quantity of wild
grapes, pressed out the juice and put it away in
the sacramental cask for future use. This wine
answered the purpose very well so long as the
weather remained cool, but during the summer it
soured and became unfit for use.
The time came to administer the sacrament
THE FRENCH AT LA VANTUM.
69
Tonti, the three soldiers with their wives, Chas-
sagoac and family, with a few friends, were
assembled in the council-house on the Sabbath
day to receive the sacred emblems. Father Ga¬
briel, wrapped in his long black robe, with a gold
cross suspended from his neck, preached to them,
speaking of Christ, of the apostles, of saints, and
of the kingdom to come. After preaching, all
knelt around the altar engaged in prayer, while
Father Gabriel made preparations to administer
the sacrament ; but he was horrified to find the
wine sour, and the miracle of transubstantiation
(that is, converting it into the real blood of Christ)
could not be performed, consequently the sacra¬
mental service was postponed until another day.
Time hung heavy with the French ; days and
weeks passed away ; spring was gone, the sum¬
mer almost ended, and no news from La Salle.
In an Indian village, where there is neither hunt¬
ing or war parties, nor national dances to keep
up the excitement, it has a dull, monotonous
appearance. Warriors lay under the shade of
trees, sleeping or amusing themselves in games
of chance, wThile squaws were at work in corn¬
fields, or preparing food for their families. Naked
children were playing on the green or rolling in
the dirt, while young maidens, with their lovers,
were gathering flowers in the grove, fishing on
70 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
the banks of the river, or rowing their canoes
across its waters, unconscious of the great calamity
that was about to befall them.
THE ALARM AND PREPARATION FOR DEFENSE.
It was near the close of a warm day in the
latter part of August, 1680, when a scout arrived
with his horse in a foam of sweat, and shouting at
the top of his voice that the Iroquois were
marching against the town. All was now excite¬
ment and confusion ; squaws screamed, pappooses
quit their plays on the green, and ran away to
their homes ; warriors caught their weapons and
made preparations to defend their town and pro¬
tect their squaws and little ones. During the
night fires were kept burning along the river
bank, and every preparation made to defend the
town in case it should be attacked. The warriors
greased their bodies, painted their faces red, and
ornamented their heads with turkey feathers;
war songs were sung, drams beat ; warriors
danced, yelled and brandished their war clubs to
keep up their courage. At last morning came,
and with it the savage Iroquois.
When news came of the approaching Iorquois,
a crowd of excited savages collected around
Tonti and his companions, whom they had previ-
ALARM AND PREPARATIONS FOR DEFENSE. 71
ously suspected of treachery, and charged them
with being in league with their enemies. A
report having reached them that a number of
Jesuit priests, and even La Salle himself was with
the Iroquois, and leading them on to the town.
The enraged warriors seized the blacksmith forge,
tools, and all the goods that belonged to the
French, and threw them into the river. One of
the warriors caught Tonti by the hair of his head
and raised his tomahawk to split his skull, but a
friendly chief caught the savage by the arm, and
his life was spared. Tonti, with that boldness
and self-possession which was characteristic of
him, defended himself against these charges, and
in order to convince them of his good faith,
offered to accompany them to battle.
Father Gabriel and Zenobe were away at their
altar, spending the day in prayer and meditation,
and had no warning of the danger that awaited
them. On their return home late at night, they
were surprised to find the town in a whirlpool of
excitement; squaws were crying and bewailing
their fate, while the warriors were dancing, yelling
and offering up sacrifices to the Manito of battle.
On the arrival of the two priests, the savages
collected around them, charging them with treach¬
ery, and being the cause of the Iroquois invading
their country. The priests, with uplifted hands,
72 FKENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
called God to witness their innocence of the
charge, but their statement did not change the
minds of the excited Indians. A loud clamor was
raised for their blood, and a number of warriors
sprang forward with uplifted tomahawks to put an
end to their existence, but as they drew nigh and
were about to tomahawk them, Father Gabriel
drew from his bosom a small gold image of the
Holy Virgin, and held it up before their would-be
executioners. On seeing this sacred talisman the
Indians paused a moment, and then returned their
tomahawks to their belts. Father Zenobe after¬
wards said this was another proof of the Virgin
protecting the Jesuits in North America.
During the night all the squaws and pappooses,
with the old Indians unable to bear arms, were
placed in canoes and taken down the river about
three leagues, to a large marshy island.* About
sixty warriors were left for their protection, and
all of them secreted themselves in the reeds and
high grass, so they could not be seen by the Iro¬
quois. But the sequel shows that they did not
escape the vigilance of the enemy, and this island
of supposed safety became their tomb.
»This island is situated between the river and Lake Depue,
and consits of several hundred acres of marsh land, a part of
which is covered during the summer with reeds and bulrushes
Formerly it was surrounded by water, but from the washings of
the river the upper end is filled up so that in an ordinary stage
of water it connects with the main land.
CHAPTER VII.
THE BATTLE AND MASSACRE.
At the time of the Iroquois invasion, there
were only about five hundred warriors at La
Vantum, the head chief, Chassagoae, and a large
portion of his braves having gone to Cahokia for
the purpose of attending a religious feast. But
this band, small as it was, boldly crossed the river
at daylight, and met the enemy, whose number
was five times as large as their own. While they
were ascending the bluff a scout met them, say¬
ing that the enemy were crossing the prairie
between the Vermillion and Illinois timber. As
the invaders approached the river timber, they
were surprised to meet the Illinoians, who were
lying in ambush, and received them with a deadly
fire. At this unexpected attack, the Iroquois
were stricken with a panic and fled from the field,
leaving the ground covered with the dead and
wounded. But they soon rallied and the fight
became bloody, arrows and rifle balls flying thick
74 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
and fast, while the woods far and near resounded
with the wild whoops of contending savages.
In the midst of the fight, Tonti undertook the
perilous task of mediating between the contend¬
ing parties. Laying aside his gun and taking a
wampum belt in his hand, holding it over his
head as a flag of truce, and amid showers of
arrows and bullets, he walked boldly forward to
meet the enemy. As he approached, the Iroquois
warriors collected around him in a threatening
manner, one oí whom attempted to stab him to
the heart, but the knife striking a rib inflicted
only a long, shallow gash. As the savage
was about to repeat the blow a chief came
up, and seeing he was a white man, protected
him from further assault, and applied a bandage
to the wound to stop its bleeding. The fighting
having ceased, a warrior took Tonti's hat, and
placing it on the muzzle of his gun, started
toward the Illinoians, who, on seeing it, supposed
lie was killed and again renewed the fight.
While the battle was in progress, a warrior
reported that three Frenchmen, armed with guns,
were with the Illinois forces, and firing on them.
When this announcement was made the Iroquois
became enraged at Tonti, and again gathered
around him, some for killing and others for his
protection. One ©f the warriors caught him by
THE BATTLE AND MA88A0RE.
75
the hair of his head, raising it up, and with his
long knife was about to take off his scalp, when
Tonti, with his iron hand, knocked down his
assailant Others attacked Tonti with knives and
tomahawks, but he was again rescued from death
by the head-chief.
For a long time the battle raged, many of the
combatants on both sides being slain, and the yells
of the warriors could be heard far away. But at
last the Illinoians, whose force was inferior to
their adversary, were overpowered and driven
from the field. The vanquished fled to their
town, with the intention of defending it or perish
in the attempt.
On the river bank, near the center of the town,
was their great council-house, surrounded by
stockades, forming a kind of fortification. To
this the remnant of the warriors fled, and in great
haste tore down the lodges and used the material
in strengthening their works.
The Illinoians had crossed the river in
canoes, but their pursuers having no means of
crossing at this point, werei obliged to go up to
the rapids where they forded it. In a short time
the Iroquois attacked the town, setting fire to the
lodges and fortifications, which were soon a mass
of flames. Many of the beseiged were burned
in their strongholds, others were slain or taken
7 6 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
prisoners as they escaped from the flames ; a few
only succeeded in the preservation of their lives
by escaping down the river. The town, with the
great council-house and fortifications, was de¬
stroyed by fire, and nothing was left of them except
the blackened poles of which the lodges were
constructed.
When the victory was completed they bound
the prisoners hand and foot, and commenced
torturing them to make them reveal the hiding
place of their squaws and pappooses.
On obtaining the necessary information a large
war party took the canoes left by the vanquished
Illinoians, and descended the river in search of
the squaws and pappooses. While these defense¬
less beings were secreted among the reeds and
high grass of the island, they were discovered by
the savage Iroquois, and all of them slain. The
sixty warriors left to guard them fled on the ap¬
proach of the enemy, crossing the lake and
secreting themselves in the thick river timber.
TORTURING THE PRISONERS.
On the following day after the battle, the vic¬
tors made preparations to torture the prisoners ;
and their acts of barbarity probably never have
TORTURING THE PRISONERS.
77
been equaled by any of the savages of the west.
The warriors were formed into a large circle,
and the prisoners, bound hand and foot, were
conveyed thither, when the work of torture com¬
menced. The doomed prisoners were seated on
the ground awaiting their fate, some of whom
were weeping or praying, while others were
engaged in singing their death song. A warrior,
with a long knife, cut off the nose and ears of the
prisoners, and threw them to their hungry dogs.
Pieces of flesh were cut out of their arms and
breasts, while the prisoners sat writhing with
agony ; and the ground around them red with
human gore. The work of torture went on—the
executioners continued to cut off limbs and pieces
of flesh—and in some cases the bowels were taken
out and trailed on the ground, while the groans
and screams of the victims in their death agonies
were terrible to witness.
Tonti and his companions looked on these bar¬
barous acts of the Iroquois with horror and
astonishment, but dare not remonstrate as they
were prisoners also, and did not know but a like
fate awaited them.
While the torture was going on the two priests
were engaged in baptizing the victims, in order
to absolve them from past sins, and as each one
was about to expire, they would hold the crucifix
78 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
before his eyes, so he might look on it, and
through its divine efficacy his soul would be saved
from perdition.
When the prisoners were all dead, the warriors
cut out their hearts, roasted and eat them in order
to make them brave.
For a number of days the Iroquois continued
to rejoice over their victory, spending the time
in singing and dancing around the scalps, and
causing the timber and river bluffs to re-echo with
their yells and wild whoops.
DEATH OF FATHER GABRIEL.
Two days after the Iroquois victory, the French
were set at liberty, and they departed in an old
leaky canoe. After going about six leagues, they
stopped at the mouth of a large creek to repair
the canoe and dry their clothing. While thus
engaged, Father Gabriel, who was always fond oí
solitude, wandered off into the thick river timber
for the purpose of prayer and meditation. When
the canoe was repaired, clothes dried, and time of
departure came, Father Gabriel was missing,
and they searched for him among the thick tim¬
ber, but he could not be found. During the night
fires were kept burning along the river bank, and
guns discharged to direct him to camp, but all
DEATH OP FATHER GABRIEL.
79
in vain. During the following day they searched
the woods far and near for the missing priest, and
Father Zenohe prayed to the Holy Virgin for his
safe return, but all to no purpose, so they gave
him up for lost, and continued their journey. For
many days they mourned the loss of the holy
father, as he was an old man of nearly three score
years, and devoted to the work of the church.
It was afterwards ascertained that Father Ga¬
briel was taken prisoner by the Indians, carried
to their camp some miles off, where he was exe¬
cuted, and while his friends were searching for
him those savages were dancing around his scalp.
"While Father Gabriel was at prayer in the thick
timber, some distance from his companions, he
was approached by two Indians in a threatening
manner. With his head uncovered he arose to
meet them, with one hand pointing heavenward
and the other to the gold cross on his breast,
giving them to understand that he was a priest.
In vain he told them that he was their friend, and
had come from afar across the big waters to teach
them in the ways of truth and happinesss. Re¬
gardless of his entreaties, they bound his hands
behind his back and led him off a prisoner to
their camp. A council was held over the
captives and it was decided that lie should die.
A stake was driven into the ground, and Father
E
80 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
Gabriel with his hands and ieet pinioned, tied to
it. Here, he sat on the ground bonnd to the
stake, with his long hair and flowing beard white
with the snows of seventy winters, waving to and
fro in the wind. The Indians formed a circle
around their victim, singing and dancing while
flourishing their war-clubs over his head, and oc¬
casionally yelling at the top of their voices. This
performance continued for some time, while the
victim sat with his head bowed down, his eyes
fixed on the gold cross which hung on his breast,
and in silence awaited his doom.
Under repeated blows of war-clubs, Father
Gabriel fell to the ground and soon expired. His
clothing and scalp were taken off by the savages,
and his remains left to be devoured by wolves.
Thus perished Father Gabriel, the only heir of
a wealthy Burgundian house, who had given up a
life of ease and comfort, with all the enjoyment
of riches and society in the old world, to preach
the gospel to the heathens of the west, whom at
last became his murderers.
Four years after this affair, a trader at Fort St.
Louis bought of an Indian a small gold image of
the Virgin Mary, with Father Gabriel's name and
that of the owner engraved thereon. This image
was presented to Father Gabriel the day he sailed
for America, by the cardinal bishop of Normandy,
A SCENE OF HOKROB.
81
and he carried it in his bosom near his heart until
the day of his death. Some years afterward, this
golden image was carried back to France, and is
now to be seen in the museum at Rouen.
A SCENE OF HORROR.
It was mid winter, three months after the mas¬
sacre of the Illinois Indians, when La Salle, with
twelve companions, returned from Canada to look
after his little colony on the Illinois river. As
the travelers urged their canoes down the swollen
stream, their eyes were directed to Starved Rock,
where they expected to find Tonti within his
fortification. But no palisades were there—no
smoke ascended from its summit, nor signs of hu¬
man habitation could be seen. Passing down the
rapid current for about two miles, they were sur¬
prised to find that the great town of the west had
disappeared. The large meadow, only a few
months before covered with lodges and swarming
with human beings, was now a lonely waste, a repre¬
sentative of death and desolation. On the charred
poles which had formed the frame-work of lodges,
were many human heads, partly robbed of flesh
by birds of prey. Gangs of wolves fled at their
approach, and flocks of buzzards raised from their
hideous repast, and flew away to distant trees.
82 FRENCH ANÍ> INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Even the burying ground showed marks of the
vindictive malice of the conquerors, they having
made war on the dead as well as the living.
Graves had been opened and bones taken out and
piled up in heaps, or broken into fragments and
scattered over the prairie. The scaffolds which
contained dead bodies, had been torn down and
their contents thrown hither and thither on the
prairie. Everywhere the blackened ground was
strewn with mangled bodies and broken bones of
the unfortunate Illinoians. The caches had been
broken open, the corn taken out and burned by
the victors.
In the midst of these ruins the conquerors had
erected an altar to the god of war, and the poles
surrounding it were capped with heads of victims
whose long hair and ghastly features were sicken¬
ing to look upon. The stench arising from pu¬
trefaction was so offensive, and the scene so
horrifying, that La Salle and his party turned
away from it, and encamped for the night on the
opposite side of the river. During the long
winter night the loneliness was increased by the
howling of wolves, and buzzards winging their
flight back and forth through the dark domain.
On the following morning La Salle returned to
the ruined town, and examined the skulls of many
of the victims, to see if he could find among them
A 8CBNE OF HORROR.
83
the remains of Tonti and his party, but they all
proved to have been the heads of Indians.
On the bank of the river were planted six posts,
painted red, and on each of these was a figure of
a man drawn in white. La Salle believed these
figures represented six white men, prisoners in
the hands of Indians, it being the number of
Tonti's party.
La Salle and his companions again boarded
their canoes and started down the river, hoping to
learn something in relation to the fate of their
comrades, but nothing was discovered.
As the travelers passed down the river, they
saw on the island where the squaws and pappooses
had taken refuge, many human figures standing
erect, but motionless. With great caution they
landed from their canoes to examine these figures,
and found them to be partly consumed bodies of
squaws, who had been bound to stakes and then
burned. Fires had been made at their feet, con¬
suming the flesh off their legs and crisping their
bodies, but leaving the remains bound to the
stakes, standing erect as though in life ; poles
were stuck into the marsh and pappooses placed
thereon, while others were hanging by the neck
from limbs of trees, with the flesh partly eaten
off their bodies by birds of prey. Among these
remains no warriors were found, as they had fled
84 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
at the approach of the enemy, leaving the squaws
and pappooses to their fate. The sight of these
dead bodies was so revolting to look upon, that
the French turned away from them, not knowing
at what moment they too would fall victims to
the savage Iroquois.
A few years after this event, according to tradi¬
tion, Father Zenobe, with others of his countrymen,
visited this island and found here a large piece of
ground strewn with human bones.
In the summer of 1829 a black man named
Adams, built a cabin opposite the upper end of
the island at the mouth-of Negro creek. In the
following spring Mr. Adams discovered many
human bones sticking out of the bank on the
island, where the dirt had been washed away
by the floods. The same thing was noticed by
John Clark, Amos Leonard and other earlv settlers.
' %/
It appears the bones were covered up by over¬
flowing of the island, and afterward brought to
light by washing away of the bank.
CHAPTER VIII.
FORT ST. LOUIS, ROCK FORT, AND LE ROCHER.
It is believed by the people of the west gener¬
ally that Fort St. Louis was built on Buffalo Rock,
as relics of an ancient fortification were found
here in the early settlement of the country. But
in comparing the various historical accounts of
this fort, as well as French and Indian traditions,
it will appear quite evident that it stood on Starved
Rock, and here its remains can now be seen. In
an old map, drawn in the days of La Salle, and
preserved with the antiquarian collection at Que¬
bec, Fort St. Louis is located on the south side of
the river, whereas Buffalo Rock is on the north
sida The description of this fort, with its sur-
soundings, as given by the explorers and missiona¬
ries, would apply very well to Starved Rock, but
will not answer for Buffalo Rock. Fort St. Louis,
Rock Fort and Le Rocher, so often referred to in
history, are, without doubt, all the same place.
In the summer of 1721, thirty-nine years after
86 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Fort St. Louis was built, Charlevoix, a Jesuit
priest, visited the Illinois country, and in his
journal gives an account of both of these rocks.
On Buffalo Rock he found an Indian village, and
in the midst of which was a rude fortification,
consisting of low earthworks, with stockades
constructed of Cottonwood pôles, and known as
Le Fort des Miames. About one league below
Buffalo Rock, on the opposite side of the river,
is Le Rocher, rising from the water's edge like a
castle wall, to the hight of one hundred and fifty
feet, and can be ascended at only one point. On
this rock, says Charlevoix, La Salle built a fort,
and part of its palisades were still standing. The
block-house, store-house and dwellings had been
burned by the Indians, and everything about the
fort was in ruins, although it had been occupied
by his countrymen only three years before.*
*A more romantic place for building a fort could not be found
in the western country, and for natural defenses or picturesque
appearance, it is without a parallel in history. The many re¬
markable events connected with this old relic of antiquity, if
correctly given, would rival the works of fiction, surpassing
even the wild romances of feudal times.
The river at this point assumes a new character—no longer a
duU, sluggish stream—but is wide, shallow and rapid, and its
broad channel divided by many beautiful islands. Some of
these islands are now under cultivation, while others are cov¬
ered with forest trees, the tall cottonwood and out-spreading
elms adding beauty and romance to the surrounding scenery.
Some of these islands in the river, together with the land on
which Starved Rock stands, belongs to Col. D. F. Hitt, of Ottawa,
who entered it nearly forty years ago.
FORT ST. LOUIS, ROOK FORT AND LE ROCHER. 87
In the spring of 1680, while La Salle with two
companions were on their way from Fort Creve
Ceour to Canada, they stopped at Starved Kock,
and their account of it is the first given in history.
While they were rowing their canoe up the rapid
stream, they noticed on the right shore a remark¬
able cliff of rocks, rising from the water's edge
and towering above the forest trees. Landing
from their canoes they ascended this rock, and
found it to be a natural fortress, where but little
labor would be required to make it impregnable,
so that a few soldiers could hold it against a host
of savages.
When La Salle arrived in Canada he sent word
to Tonti to fortify this rock on the Illinois river
and make it his stronghold, as it was more desira¬
ble than Fort Creve Ceour. Although circum¬
stances prevented Tonti from obeying the orders
of his superior, nevertheless a fort was built here
two years afterwards, and around it clustered the
first colony in the Mississippi valley.
In the fall of 1682 La Salle, with about forty
soldiers under his command, commencecLbuilding
a fort on the summit of Starved Rock. The
place of ascending the rock was improved by
breaking off projecting crags and cutting steps
in the steep pathway. The stunted cedars which
crowned the summit were cut away to make room
88 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
for a fortification, and the margin of the rock for
about two-thirds of its circumference was encir¬
cled bj earthworks. Timbers were cut on the
river bottom below, and by hand dragged up the
stair-like pathway to build a block-house, a store¬
house and dwellings, and protect a large portion
of the summit with palisades. A platform was
built on the trunks of two leading cedars that
stood on the margin of the cliff, and on which a
windlass was placed to draw water out of the
river for supplying the garrison. All the arms,
stores, &c., belonging to the French were carried
here and placed within the stockades, and the
small cannon, which they had brought in a canoe
from Canada, was mounted upon the ramparts.
"When the fort was completed the French flag
was swung to the breeze, the cannon fired three
salutes in honor of Louis XIY, and the soldiers
shouted Vive le roi.
The fort was named St. Louis or Rock Fort,
and in dedicating it Father Zenobe called on the
Yirgin to bless it, to keep it in the true faith, and
protect it from the enemies of the cross.
From the wooden ramparts of St. Louis, which
were as high and almost as inaccessible as an
eagle's nest, the French could look down on the
Indian town below, and also on the great meadow
which lay spread out before them like a map.
TEADE WITH THE INDIANS.
89
Two years before, this meadow was a scene of
carnage—a waste of death and desolation, black¬
ened by fire and strewn with the ghastly remains
of the slain in an Iroquois victory—but things
were now changed ; Indians to the number of six
thousand had returned, and the river bank for a
mile in extent was covered with lodges. Indians
from the neighboring villages came here to trade,
bringing with them venison, buffalo meat, furs,
&c., to exchange for goods. At one time there
were encamped around the fort not less than
twenty thousand Indians, who came here to trade
and seek protection from their much dreaded en¬
emies—the Iroquois.
La Salle being now established within his
stockades, turned his attention to trading with the
Indians, supplying them with goods and taking
furs in exchange. Emigrants from Canada came
here and settled near the fort, many of whom
were engaged in trade with the Indians. Some
of these adventurers married squaws, lived in the
village with the Indians and adopted their dress,
habits and customs. The colony was named
Louisiana, in honor of the king of France, and
according to a map drawn at that time it included
within its boundaries all the Mississippi valley.
This vast territory La Salle claimed dominion
over by virtue of his patent, and he commenced
90 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
dividing it out to his friends, by giving them
permits to trade with the Indians. He author¬
ized Richard Bosley to establish a trading post at
Cahokia, and Phillip De Beuro one at Green Bay,
but compelling them to pay a royalty to him on
all goods sold and furs bought
TRADE WITH THE INDIANS.
As soon as a trading post was established at
Fort St. Louis, Indians from different parts of the
country came hither to exchange furs and pelts
for goods, which was done at large profit to the
traders. Tomahawks, knives, &c., made of flint
were superseded by those of steel ; blankets, as
wearing apparel, took the place of the heavy buf¬
falo robe, and to the same extent guns superseded
bows and arrows. A blanket worth three dollars
in Quebec, would bring one hundred dollars in
furs, and a tomahawk that cost fifty cents would
sell for twenty dollars among the Indians.
Two years after Fort St. Louis was built, La
Salle, leaving Tonti in command, returned to
Canada, and from thence sailed to France. Being
assisted by the court of France, he on the follow¬
ing year, with three ships loaded with emigrants,
sailed to the Gulf of Mexico for the purpose of
establishing a colony at the mouth of the Missis-
PLIGHT OF INDIANS AND ATTACK OF FORT. 01
sippi river. This enterprise failed, and La Salle
was assassinated by some of his own men while
on his way to Illinois*
Although La Salle was dead his colony on the
Illinois river continued to flourish, and the fur
trade became a source of great wealth. For
eighteen years this trade was conducted by Tonti
and La Frost, the former living at St. Louis, and
the latter in Canada. Furs were sent east in
canoes, and in a like manner goods for the In¬
dian trade were brought west. In navigating
the lakes a number of canoes were lashed together,
and with sails hoisted and oars applied, they
would coast along the shore. The connection
between the lake and Illinois river was effected
by crossing the portage through Mud lake, be¬
tween Chicago and Des Plains river, f
FLIGHT OF INDIANS AND ATTACK OF FORT.
Two years after building Fort St. Louis, it was
attacked by a large body of the Iroquois Indians,
♦In the summer of 1686, Tonti, at his own expense, with forty
men in canoes, descended the river to the Gulf of Mexico, in
search of La Salle, but did not succeed in finding him. Again
in 1689 he made a like tour in search of the remnant of the
colony, and for the purpose of finding the bones of the great
explorer in order to carry them back with him ; but this expe¬
dition, like the other, proved a failure.
fThis passage from the Illinois river to Lake Michigan, was
known by the Indians long before the French came to the
92 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
who held it in siege six days. Tonti was in com¬
mand of the fort, which contained at the time
fifty French soldiers, and about one hundred
Indian allies, and with this small force put the
besiegers to flight.
It was a bright clear day in the latter part of
May, and the great meadow was green with grass,
intermixed with flowTers of various hues ; the
country, and it was used by the American pioneers in the early
settlement of the west.
In the spring of 1826, John Hamlin, a trader at Peoria, having
on hand about one hundred barrels of pork, which he had re¬
ceived from settlers in exchange for goods, conceived a novel
idea of shipping it to Fort Dearborn, (now Chicago), where a
good price could be obtained. He hired a keel boat which had
brought emigrants to Peoria, loaded it with pork, and started
it up the river in charge of three boatmen. On the following
day Mr. Hamlin, accompanied by Elder Walker and Joseph
Smith (Dad Joe) started for Fort Dearborn in a small Mackinaw
boat loaded with furs. The wind being from the south, with
all the sails hoisted the boat went up the river at the rate oí ten
miles per hour, and overtook the keel boat near the mouth of
Bureau creek.
On reaching the rapids it was found impossible to get the
loaded keel boat up the strong current, so it was unloaded and
taken up empty, and the pork carried up with many loads of
the Mackinaw boat. When above the rapids the pork was
again loaded into the keel boat, and she continued on her way
toward the lake.
At the mouth of Des Plains river the keel boat was unloaded
and sent back to Peoria, while the Mackinaw boat continued
on her way to Fort Dearborn. After unloading the furs the
Mackinaw boat returned to the mouth of Des Plains, and at
different loads carried the pork through to the fort.
The Mackinaw boat, when heavily loaded, drew three feet and
a half of water, but the streams being high it passed the portage
from Des Plains through Mud lake Into Chicago river without
getting aground.
FLIGHT OF INDIANS AND ATTACK Of FORT. 93
trees were in full leaf, and the air was fragrant
with blossoms of the wild plum and crab-
apple ; birds were singing among the branches of
trees, and squirrels chirping in the thick river
timber, while at a distance was heard the sweet
notes of the robin and meadow lark. In the
shade of the willows and elms on the river bank
lay the doe and her fawn, lulled to slumber by
the hum of the wild bee and grasshopper.
All was quiet at Fort St Louis, and the inmates
were delighted with the beauty of the surround¬
ing scenery. To the west, in plain view, lay the
great town of La Yantum, with its many hundred
lodges built along the bank of the river, and
around which were collected thousands of human
beings. On the race track, above the town, war¬
riors mounted on ponies were practicing horse¬
manship, while far in the distance squaws were
seen engaged in planting corn or gathering greens
for their family meal.
It was Sabbath morning, the fourth after
Easter ; all the ihmates of Fort St.- Louis were
dressed in their best apparel, and seated under
the shade of cedars, awaiting religious services.
Father Zenobe, dressed in his long black robe,
with a large gold cross hanging from his neck,
was about to com menee services, when a lone-
Indian was seen on the bottom prairie going west-
94 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
ward, and urging his pony forward at the top of
its speed.
Father Zenobe after concluding his sermon,
was about to administer the sacrament, when the
sentinel at the gate fired his gun to give an alarm.
At this signal the meeting broke up, and every
one ran to his post, thinking that the fort was
about to be attacked. On looking in the direc¬
tion of the town everything appeared in commo¬
tion. Warriors mounted on ponies were riding
back and forth at full gallop, squaws and pap-
pooses running hither and thither in wild con¬
fusion ; drums beating, warriors yelling, while the.
cries and lamentations of the frightened people
could be heard even at the fort. Tonti, with three
companions, came down from the fort, boarded a
canoe, and with all haste proceeded down the
river to ascertain the cause of this excitement,
and upon his arrival the mystery was explained.
A scout had arrived with the intelligence that
a large body of Iroquois were only ten leagues
distant and marching on the town. The tragedy
of four years previous was fresh in their minds,
and fearing a like result caused them to go wild
with terror. The chiefs and warriors collected
around Tonti, beseeching him to protect them
from the scalping knives and tomahawks of their
enemies, in accordance with La Salle's promise.
FLIGHT OF INDIANS AND ATTACK OF FOKT. 95
Tonti in reply said that his force was not sufficient
to afford them protection, but advised them to
collect their warriors and defend the town. The
French, who lived in the town with their wives
and a few Indian friends, fled to the fort for secu¬
rity, but the warriors, being seized with a panic
and fearing another massacre, in great haste fled,
some going down the river in canoes, while
others mounted their ponies and galloped west¬
ward across the country. Soon after their
departure the invaders came, two thousand strong,
but they found a barren victory, as not one living
soul was left in La Vantum.
When the Iroquois found their intended vic¬
tims had fled, they attacked the fort and held it
in siege six days. For a number of day s the Indians
continued to fire on the fort from a neighboring
cliff, but without producing any effect. The fort
not returning the fire, emboldened the assailants,
and each day they came closer, and occupied the
timber near the base of the rock, with the inten¬
tion, no doubt, of making an assault. But when
they were in close range, the guns were brought
to bear on them, and they received the fire of
both muskets and cannon. Many were killed,
others wounded, while the survivors, being
stricken with a panic, fled in great haste, leaving
their dead and wounded behind.
F
96 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS EIYEE.
No Iroquois Indians were ever seen in that
vicinity afterwards, and they never made another
raid on the Illinoians.
For many days after the Indians were repulsed,
the French remained within their fortifications,
and did not venture down from the rock until
convinced that the enemy had left the country.
CHAPTER IX.
BETUBN OF THE VICTORIOUS ARMY.
In the year 1687, Tonti with fifty French sol¬
diers and two hundred Illinois warriors, went to
Canada and joined the army of Governor Den-
onville, in an expedition against the Indians south
of Lake Ontario. Denonville's army was victo¬
rious ; many towns along the Mohawk river were
burned and a large number of scalps taken.
After this victory, the army returned to Canada
where it was disbanded, when Tonti with his
soldiers and Indian allies returned to Illinois.
On their return they were accompanied by a
number of emigrant families, among whom were
many women, wives and daughters of traders
and soldiers. For weeks the voyageurs in their
canoes coasted along the shore of the lakes, and
camping at night on its beach without tents to
protect them from the inclement weather. On
reaching the mouth of Chicago river they ascènd-
ed it, crossing the portage into Des Plains, and
98 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
soon this large fleet of canoes was sailing down
the Illinois river.
It was a beautiful clear morning in midsum¬
mer; the bright silvery rays of the sun reflected
from the rippling waters of the river, as it glided
swiftly by. The fresh cooling breeze and the
songs of the birds added much to the loveliness
of the scene. The occupants of Fort St. Louis,
after the morning prayer and exhortation by
Father Allonez, were collected along the brink of
the rock, watching the finny tribe as they sported
over the sand and stones in the clear shallow
water. While thus engaged they were startled
to hear the sound of a bugle lip the river, and on
looking in that direction were much surprised to
see the broad stream covered with canoes, fast
approaching the fort. On came this large fleet,
with flags flying, drums beating, and the loud
cheering of both French and Indians announc¬
ing the return of Tonti's victorious army. As
this fleet of canoes passed swiftly down the rapid
current, the cannon on the fort boomed forth loud
peals of welcome to returning friends.
There was great rejoicing at the fort; wives
and daughters of soldiers and traders had come
thither to join their friends after years of separa¬
tion, and their meeting was an affecting one.
On the night following the return of Tonti's
TONTT VISITS THE WINNEBAGO COUNTRY. 99
army, a wine supper and ball was given in honor
of the occasion, and the great hall of the fort
rang with songs, jests, music, and other demon¬
strations of joy. Ladies from the fashionable
society of Montreal gave an air of refinement to"
the ball, and such a gay party was never before
witnessed in the wilds of the west. Much wine
was drank, music sounded, and the joyous laugh
of the dancers rang forth on the clear night air.
Father Allonez having spent twenty years among
savages in the west, without mingling in refined
society, became so overjoyed by the effects of
wine and gay party, that his soul was filled with
rapture, and as he passed to and fro among the
fair ladies, offered to bestow his blessing upon
them.
While the French at the fort were enjoying
themselves, the Indians at La Yantum were also
having a gay time in honor of returning friends.
Many of their favorite dogs were killed, a feast pre¬
pared, and they danced around the scalps taken in
their late expedition. The sound of their drums
and the yells of dancers were heard at the fort,
and were responded to by the booming of cannon.
TONTI VISITS THE WINNEBAGO COUNTRY.
For a number of years the Winnebagoes of the
north had been trespassing on the Illinoians by
100 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
hunting on their lands. During the winter,
"Winnebago hunters would go to Lake Weno to
collect furs ; sometimes visit the Illinois river
and kill large quantities of buffalo, and leave their
carcasses as food for wolves or to decay upon the
prairie. An ill feeling had existed between these
tribes for a long time ; a number of hunters from
each had been killed, and open hostilities were
about to commence. The Illinoians were collect¬
ing their warriors from the different villages for
the purpose of invading the enemy's country,
while the Winnebagoes were making preparations
for a raid on the towns along the Illinois river.
Tonti, knowing that a war would ruin the fur
trade, and perhaps endanger his own fortified
position, resolved on a bold scheme to prevent it.
Knowing that the Winnebagoes would collect at
their principal town located high up on Rock
river, about the middle of September, for the
purpose of holding their annual feast, resolved to
meet them there with his Illinois allies, and
adjust all variances.
Tonti, with twenty French soldiers and twenty
Illinois chiefs, among whom was Chassagoac, the
principal chief of the tribe, all mounted on ponies,
started for the Winnebago country. On arriving
at their principal town where the different bands
had assembled, they were received as friends and
TONTI VISITS THE WINNEBAGO COUNTRY 101
treated with much respect. The chiefs and war¬
riors collected around the French, most of whom
had never looked upon the face of a white man
before, and regarded them as superior beinga
The visitors were entertained in the council-
house, and feasted on dog meat, honey, and all
the delicious food which the country afforded.
On the following day after their arrival the chiefs
and principal warriors held a religious dance, and
the strange performance greatly amused the
visitors.
The dancers were naked and their bodies
painted, some with white and others with red or
black clay. On the head of each was a wreath
of turkey feathers and a pair of deer's horns,
causing them to look more like devils than hu¬
man beings. At the sound of drums, ñutes and
rattling gourds, the dancing commenced, and con¬
tinued without cessation until the dancers became
exhausted. As the loud strains of music anima¬
ted the dancers, they would leap, hop, and jump
up and down in quick succession, with their
mouths open, tongues banging out, and occasion¬
ally yelling at the top of their voice*
Peace was made between the tribes, the wam-
*This remarkable dance of the Winnebagoes is a religious
exercise, and only performed at their annual feast. I have
witnessed a similar performance among the howling Dervishes
in Qrand Cario, Egypt.
102 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
pum belt exchanged, and as a pledge of good faith
the Winnebagoes presented Chassagoac, the head
chief, with two of their most beautiful maidens
for wives. With these two maidens astride of
their ponies, and a great variety of presents, Tonti,
with his French companions and Indian allies,
returned to Fort St. Louis.
THE UNSCRUPULOUS PRIEST.
After the brutal assassination of La Salle in
Texas by some of his own men, his brother,
Father Cavelier, a Jesuit priest, with five com¬
panions, started for Fort St. Louis, on the Illinois
river. In an old leaky canoe they ascended the
Mississippi, passing the mouth of the Ohio and
Missouri, and at last reached the placid waters of
the Illinois. After two months of hard labor in
forcing their frail craft up the swift current of the
Father of Waters, annoyed by musquitoes, and
suffering from hunger, they at last reached their
destination, where they received a hearty wel¬
come from their countrymen.
On the 14th day of September, 1688, while
rowing their canoe up the rapid current, they
saw on the right bank a high rocky clifi, towering
above the forest trees, and crowned with palisades.
As they drew near, a troop of Indians, headed by
a white man in French uniform, descended from
THE UNSCRUPULOUS PRIEST.
103
the rocky fortress and discharged their guns in
honor of their arrival, shouting at the same time,
Vive le roi. The voyageurs landed from their
canoe, ascended the cliff, and were within the
stockades of Fort St. Louis. Here were block
and stone houses, a magazine, and a small chapel,
as well as many Indian lodges, occupied by the
allies of the French. Father Cavelier, on
viewing the scene around him, was so overjoyed
that he fell on his knees, and with uplifted hands
returned thanks to the Holy Virgin for her
guardian care in protecting him from evil in his
long and dangerous journey.
At the time Father Cavelier's party arrived at
Fort St. Louis, Tonfi was absent on a mission of
peace in the Winnebago country, but they were
kindly received by his lieutenant, Bellefountain.
The clothes of the travelers were torn into frag¬
ments while rambling through the cane-brakes
and chaparrel, at the south, so the kind lieuten¬
ant supplied them with new apparel out of the
garrison stores A fine satin robe, with a gold
cross and other sacred emblems, had been sent
from France a short time before by the bishop of
Rouen, to be presented to the most devoted
Jesuit in North America. The priests of Quebec
awarded this gift to Father Chrisp, who had
spent a long life among the Indians of Lake
104 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Huron, but of late, chaplain at Fort St. Louis.
The cloak and gold emblems were sent west, but
before they arrived Father Chrisp had died, con¬
sequently, they remained at the fort unclaimed.
In the presence of all the soldiers, and a large
collection of Indians, Bellefountain presented
Father Cavelier with these articles, and in return
the holy father raised his hands heavenward, in¬
voking God's blessing on all the occupants of
Fort St. Louis.
When Tonti returned to the Fort, he was sur¬
prised and much delighted to meet with his
countrymen, especially the brother of bis esteemed
friend, La Salle. On inquiring after the health
and prospects of La Salle> the unscrupulous
priest replied that lie had left him in excellent
health and spirits, and his new colony at the
mouth of the Mississippi was likely to be a great
success. The object of the priest in concealing
the death of La Salle, was to use his credit in
drawing on Tonti for means to carry him to Can¬
ada, and from thence to France. Consequently,
in his brother's name, he drew on Tonti for four
thousand livres worth of furs, which were placed
in two canoes, and the party continued on their
way toward Canada. On arriving at Quebec, the
party sold their furs and with the proceeds of the
sale paid their passage to France.
CHA8SAQOAO—HI8 DEATH AND BURIAL. 105
The fate of La Salle, and the imposition prac¬
ticed on Tonti by the hypocritical priest and his
companions, was not known at Fort St. Louis
until the following year.
CHA8SAGOAC—HIS DEATH AND BURIAL.
For more than fifty years Chassagoac was head
chief of the Illinois Indians, and by them he was
loved, honored and obeyed. Circumstances caused
this chief to figure extensively in history, and by
the early French explorers he is represented as a
noble specimen of his race. In a letter of Father
Zenobe's to a friend at Quebec, the chief is de¬
scribed as being very large, with high forehead
and sharp, expressive eyes. In his nose he wore
a large ring made of buffalo horn, and around his
ankles were wreaths of small bells constructed of
turtle shells, while on his head was a crown of
eagle feathers.
In the gallery of Jesuit collection in the city
of Rouen, can now be seen a life-sized portrait of
Chassagoac, which shows him to have been a fine
specimen of his race, physically as well as men¬
tally. Whether the artist painted this portrait
from life or description is not known, but it is a
good representation of the person described in
history.
Father Hennepin in his journal says, Chassa-
106 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
goac for a time was a true disciple of Christ, but
afterwards became a child of perdition, having
reference no doubt to his plurality of wives,
which practice the priest could not persuade him
to give up. On accouut of his Christian faith,
and his fidelity to the French colony, the bishop
of Rouen sent him many presents, consisting of
gold images, crosses, crucifixes, &c. These pres¬
ents were kept sacred, and no doubt had much to
do in strengthening his faith in religion.
It was a bright day in the latter part of the
summer of 1714—all was quite at La Yan-
tum—warriors were fishing along the river bank
or engaged in shooting at a mark ; squaws at¬
tending to their domestic affairs or looking after
scores of naked children playing in the dirt. All
of a sudden the death-knell was heard, throwing
the whole town into confusion, when old and
young were seen running hither and thither to
learn the cause. The great chief, Chassagoac, in
the fullness of his years, had fell dead while
standing at the entrance of his lodge. For his
death all were in mourning, and the wailing and
lamentation of the people were heard at the fort
nearly two miles distant On the following day
the French at Fort St. Louis, as well as those
belonging to the colony, attended the funeral of
the fallen chief and gave him a Christian burial.
CHAS8AGOAO—HIS DEATH AND BURIAL. 107
His many wives, children and grandchildren to¬
gether with all the warriors of the town, blacked
their faces, and with loud wailing followed the
remains to the grave. Father Felix pronounced
absolution over the body, sprinkling it with holy
water, according to Jesuit custom, and offered
prayers to the Holy Virgin to admit the spirit to
the paradise above.
A grave having been dug on a gravelly knoll
in the rear of the town, the beloved chief, with
all the presents given him by the priest, consist¬
ing of gold and silver crosses, images, crucifixes,
&c., were buried with him. A mound was
raised over the grave, on which Father Felix
erected a large cross bearing a Latin inscription.
On a knoll immediately back of the old town
of Utica, the mound which is supposed to have
been raised over Chassagoac is still to be seen, as
well as the cavity in the earth near by from
which the dirt to erect it was taken.
About sixty years ago, Waba, a Pottowatomie
chief of some note, learning from tradition that
valuable trinkets were buried in this mound,
opened it and robbed it of its treasure.
CHAPTER X.
LE FORT DES MIAMIS.
In the year 1684, La Barre, Governor of Can¬
ada, being jealous of La Salle's power and in¬
fluence, concocted a plan to defeat his enterprise,
and thereby appropriate to himself and friends
the great wealth to be derived from the fur trade.
Under a plea that La Salle had forfeited his
charter by granting other parties permits to trade
with the Indians, sent an army officer, Captain
De Bougis, to Illinois with authority to take com¬
mand of Fort St. Louis. Tonti being in. com¬
mand of the fort, surrendered it to the usurper,
who also took possession of all the goods and furs
at the trading post. A few months after Captain
De Bougis assumed command, he became con¬
vinced that he was holding the fort without au¬
thority, consequently, he gave it up to Tonti and
returned to Canada.
On the following year after De Bougis had re¬
linquished his command of Fort St. Louis, a tall,
LE FORT DES MIAMIS.
109
spare man, calling himself Captain . Richard Pi-
lette, made his appearance at the garrison. This
man had been a captain in the army, but for some
cause was dismissed from service, and in order to
retrieve his fortune came west. Pilette remained
at the fort a number of days without letting his
business be known, but when the proper time
came he drew from his pocket a commission, un¬
der the governor's seal, authorizing him to take
command. Tonti denied the power of the gov¬
ernor to appoint a commander, as the fort was
private property—having been built and main¬
tained by La Salle at his own expense, in accord¬
ance with a charter from the King of France. In
a pompous manner Pilette proclaimed himself
commander of Fort St. Louis by virtue of his
commission, and addressing the soldiers in a tone
of authority, ordered them to lay hold of Tonti
and place him under guard. Without making
any reply Tonti, with his iron hand, knocked
down the would be commander, and at the same
time relieving him of three of his front teeth.
Before the usurper could regain his feet, the
soldiers carried him outside of the gateway, set¬
ting him on the rock, and gave him a start down¬
wards. The rock being covered with sleet,
Pilette could not recover his footing or stop his
descent, but in that position slid to the bottom,
110 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RtVER.
tearing his pantaloons into fragments, and bruising
himself on the sharp crags of rocks.
Captain Pilette, bruised and bleeding, his
clothing torn almost off him while sliding down
the rock, made his way to La Vantum, where he
found sympathy among his countrymen and their
Indian friends. While here he concocted a plan
to gain power of the Indians, and secure their
trade, in defiance of La Salle's charter and Fort
St. Louis. With eighteen Frenchmen and about
fifty warriors he went to Buffalo Bock, and on its
summit commenced building a fort. Here they
built a block-house, a store-house, and surrounded
them with earthworks and palisades. Pilette
promised the Indians to supply them with goods,
war implements, &c., in exchange for furs, and
protect tlwem from the Iroquois. Acting upon
this promise, a large number of Indians came
here and built lodges within the stockades, as well
as around it, and in a short time it became a large
town. The place took the name of Le Fort des
Miamis, and was occupied by the Indians long
after the French left the country. The remains
of this fort were plain to be seen in the early
settlement of the country, and were mistaken for
the relics of Fort St. Louis.
Next year after the fort was built, Captain Pi¬
lette collected from the Indians two canoe loads
LE FOBT DES MIAMIS.
Ill
of pelts and furs, which he contemplated shipping
to Canada, and paying for them in goods on his
return. The captain, with three companions, was
about to start on this journey, when both French
and Indians were collected on the river bank
to bid them adieu. But as their canoes were
about to leave the shore, Tonti, with a file of
armed soldiers, made his appearance and forbid
them going until the duty authorized by La
Salle's charter was paid. Pilette protested
against being robbed in this way, as he termed it,
but knowing that Tonti with his armed soldiers
would enforce his demand, consented to pay the
tribute. Accordingly the required number of
buffalo, beaver and otter skins was counted out,
after which the canoes departed on their way
Pilette married a squaw, raised a large family
of half-breed children, to whom he left a large
fortune, which he had made in the fur trade.
When he died they buried him on Buffalo Rock,
and raised a mound over his remains. A short
distance from the site of the old fort and town,
are a number of small artificial mounds, raised
over the remains of distiguished persons. For
years these mounds have been plowed over by
A. Betger, the owner of the land, but still their
outlines are plaiii to be seen. The largest one of
the group, and standing some distance from the
o
112 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
others, is, in all probability, the one raised over
the tomb of Captain Pilette.
After Pilette's death, his family removed to
Peoria Lake, and one of his grandsons, Louis
Pilette was a claimant for the land on which
Peoria is built. Many of the descendants of this
old fur trader are now living on the American
Bottom, all of whom show strong marks of In¬
dian origin. One of these descendants, Hypolite
Pilette, a great grandson of the Captain, has in
his possession a number of articles which once
belonged to his distinguished grandsire. From
this man I obtained most of the traditionary
account of Le Fort des Miamis, as well as many
other facts relating to the French and Indians of
that day.
STRANGE INDIAN CUSTOMS.
The Illinois Indians like many of the western
tribes, were divided into clans, which were desig¬
nated by names of animals, such as wolf, bear,
buffalo, deer, &c. In the marriage relation these
clans were observed and their conditions strictly
complied with. A warrior was not allowed to
take a wife of his own clan, but could make his
selection from a different one. Thus wolf could
not marry wolf, but could marry bear, buffalo or
deer.
STRANGE INDIAN CUSTOMS.
113
The chieftainship was hereditary, but not
always in a direct line. Thus, a son of a chief
may not inherit his title and authority ; although
a reputed heir he may not he a natural one, but
the son of the chief's daughter is always preferred,
as most likely to be of royal blood.
The Indians believed that sickness was caused
by a demon or evil spirit taking possession of the
patient, and the physician, who being a sorcerer,
would expel it by charms or incantations. This
he would do, by songs, beating his drum, yelling
at the top of his voice, and sometimes hissing
like a serpent. If the case was a bad one, and
the demon could not be expelled by mild means,
more powerful ones were resorted to. In stub¬
born cases the physician would beat, choke and
pinch his patients, sometimes biting them until
the blood would flow ; whoop and yell over him,
and rattle tortoise shells in his ears. But if all
this failed to drive out the evil spirit, a council of
the patient's friends is called, a fire built, and the
sick person burned upon it, so the demon might
not escape and get into some one else.
Some of the dead were buried in the ground,
while others were wrapped in buffalo robes and
placed on scaffolds, out of the reach of wolves.
Here the body remained until the flesh decayed,
then the bones were taken down and laid away in
114 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
a grave. Sometimes the remains of persons killed
in a battle or by accident, were boiled, the flesh
taken off and the bones laid away in one corner
of the lodge until the time came for a public
burial. It was the custom to bury the chiefs in
some favorite spot, and raise a mound over them
to perpetuate their memory, and on the fifth day
of the tenth moon of each year, the warriors witli
their faces blacked, would meet at the grave and
moan over the departed.
On the prairie near the old town of Utica, some
of these mounds are still to be seen, and they
have been noticed near the site of other Indian
villages of the west.
Infants after death were wrapped in a deer
skin, placed in a trough covered with bark and
hung to the limb of a tree, where they were left to
be swung back and forth by the wind. For
many days after the death of an infant, the be¬
reaved mother would go at sunset and seat herself
at the root of the tree, and for hours at a time,
sing to the sleeping babe, sweet lullaby.
MANITOS AND BARSES.
The Illinois Indians believed in a great spirit
called Manito, that lived in the skies and governed
heaven and earth. Besides this great spirit, there
were many smaller ones, that resided in rocks or
MANITOS AND BAßSES.
115
caves oí* the earth, and would appear in the form
of a fairy or a big white bird ; sometimes as a
rabbit or fawn. Great efforts were made by both
old and young to keep on good terms with these
good spirits, as they protected them from the
evil ones.
Young warriors at the age of fifteen would
paint their faces, cover their heads with an elk or
coon skin, and retire to a lonely place where they
would remain two days and nights, fasting and
praying for the manifestations of their Manito,
which was sure to appear to them in a dream.
Sometimes this spirit would appear to them in
the form of a bird, a rabbit, antelope, or buffalo,
and follow them through life, acting as a guardian
angel, protecting them from the powers of the
evil one. In whatever form the good spirit man¬
ifested itself, must be represented by a corres¬
ponding idol, which is carried with them at all
times. When starting on the war-path, each
warrior puts his protector, called Totem, which is
generally a skin of a snake, a tail of a buffalo, a
horn of a deer, claw of a coon, or the head of an
eagle, into a medicine bag. This medicine bag is
carried by a priest or medicine man, who leads
the way, and the warriors follow after him in
single file.
The Indians believed in many evil spirits, some
116 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
of large and others of small magnitude. These
spirits or demons, called barses, were all the while
roaming through the earth in search of prey, at¬
tacking and destroying all persons unprotected
by a good spirit. The smaller ones would fre¬
quently appear in the form of a serpent, a turtle,
or a wolf, but the larger ones, whose size exceeds
that of a horse or buffalo, with a long tail and
cloven feet, and whose roar during a thunder
storm could be heard miles away, and would at¬
tack and destroy all persons unprotected.
About two miles south of La Vantum, in the
thick timber of the Big Yermillion, is a singular
rocky chasm or canon, extending from the creek
about eighty rods back into the bluff, and now
known as Deer Park. At the upper end of this
canon is a waterfall, caused by a small stream
falling from the projecting rock. Under this
waterfall was once a large cavern, but long since
closed up by the settling of the rock, and at pres¬
ent scarcely perceptible. According to Indian
tradition, in this rocky cavern once lived a great
demon in the form of a buffalo, with immense
horns that folded up on his back, and a tail of
great length which he would swing to and fro
over his body. This great demon or barse was
frequently seen by the Indians during the night,
while passing to and from his den, and for many
CHRISTIANIZING THE INDIAN8. 117
years no one would go into Vermillion timber to
hunt for fear of being devoured by him.
During the dead hours of the night, while the
wind blew and thunder roared, this demon could
be heard howling round the town. At one time
he produced frost in midsummer, which destroyed
all the corn, and at other times knocked it all
down with the force of his breath.
During the dead hours of night, this evil spirit
would assume the form of a man, enter lodges
while all were alseep, and breathe poison into the
nostrils of the sleepers, causing many to sicken
and die. Sometimes he would steal unborn in¬
fants from their mother's womb, and. by him
young maidens were robbed of their virtue.
CHRISTIANIZING THE INDIANS.
The Jesuits of North America, whose head¬
quarters was in Quebec, made great efforts to
Christianize the Illinois Indians, and for that pur¬
pose many missionaries were sent west, who car¬
ried with them gold and silver emblems of their
religion. These missionaries abandoned all the
comforts of civilization, and spent their days in
wigwams with the wild sons of the forest, all for
the glory and honor of the Redeemer. But all
their labors availed nothing, as the Indians con¬
formed to the modes of Christian worship only
118 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
for the gifts they expected to receive. Many
made an open profession of Christianity, observed
its form, but in fact still retained their own prin¬
ciples of religion. The Jesuits were zealous in
their work of proselyting, impressing on the
minds of the Indians, that without Christian bap¬
tism they would be cast into a lake which burnetii
with fire and brimstone. But the Indians had
been taught from their infancy, that when over¬
taken by death they would be conducted by a
good spirit to the happy hunting grounds, to join
their friends who had gone before them, and their
early convictions the priest could not remove.
All those who were baptized the priest pro¬
nounced saved from perdition, and their names
were enrolled in the great book of the church.
They counted the conversions by the number of
baptisms, when in fact it had but little to do with
it, as many were willing to be baptized every day
in the week for a pint of whisky or a pound of
tobacco.
The medals, crosses and crucifixes which the
Jesuits gave the warriors, pleased their fancy, as
they were fond of adorning their person with
glittering trinkets. And with these representa¬
tions of man's salvation suspended from their
necks, they would remain heathens still. In ad¬
dition to decorating their persons with tokens of
CHRISTIANIZING THE INDIANS. 119
Christianity, many of the warriors wore necklaces
made of dried fingers taken from an enemy, whom
they had slain in battle. The former represent¬
ed their religion, and the latter their patriotism.
Marquette appears to have been an exception
to all other Jesuits who labored for the conversion
of the Indians. While others failed, his efforts
were crowned with success, and lie made many
converts wherever he went. Long after his death
his memory was held sacred, and the places which
he visited hallowed by posterity.
CHAPTER XI.
THE LAST OF TONTI.
For a period of fifteen years after the death of
La Salle, the trade with the Illinois Indians was
carried on by Tonti and La Frost, under special
charter from the king of France. La Frost spent
most of his time in Canada, while Tonti remained
at Fort St. Louis, shipping each year a large
quantity of furs, and receiving goods in exchange.
In the year 1702, the Governor of Canada, claim¬
ing that these traders had forfeited their charter
by collecting furs at various points on Lake Mich¬
igan, and by military force he took possession of
Fort St. Louis, confiscating to the government all
their stock in trade. By this act of injustice
Tonti was not only disgraced by the arbitrary
power of the governor, but was ruined in fortune.
Calling his friends together, he took leave of them,
saying that he was about to depart from the
country never to return. Both French and In¬
dians collected around Tonti, beseeching him to
THE LAST OF TONTI.
121
remain with them, but he had resolved to do
otherwise, and with tears in their eyes he bade
them adieu. Accompanied by two companions,
lie boarded a canoe and started down the river in
search of new adventures.
On reaching the lower Mississippi, Tonti joined
D'Iberville, and assisted him in establishing a
colony in that country. For sixteen years he re¬
mained south, part of the time entrusted with
important missions, but when the colony was
broken up by sickness and Spanish invasion, he
became an outcast and a wanderer. Broken
down in health, and feeling that his end was nigh,
he employed two Indians to take him to Fort St.
Louis, so he could once more look upon the scene
of his vigor and manhood, and leave his bones
among the people by whom he had long been
honored and obeyed.
It was a warm afternoon in the early part of
August, 1718, when the occupants of Fort St.
Louis were lounging around the palisades, under
the shade of evergreens, some sleeping and others
engaged in games of dice and checkers, when
they discovered a canoe coming up the river
rowed by two Indians. In the bottom of the
canoe lay a man on a buffalo robe, but as they
came nigh the fort he raised himself into a sitting
position, and gazed wildly around him. The
122 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLIN0I8 RIVER.
canoe landed at the base of the rock, and the
Indians dragged it on shore to prevent its being
carried away by.the current. After securing their
canoe they commenced ascending Starved Rock,
when their strange appearance caused many con¬
jectures among the inmates of the fort. Between
the two Indians was a feeble old man, whom the
conductors held by each arm, and were slowly
assisting him up the rocky pathway. On reach¬
ing the fort at the summit of the rock, the old
man was placed on a bunk, where he lay for some
time unable to speak, being exhausted by the
fatigue of the journey. After taking some stim¬
ulants his energies revived, and he inquired of
those around him who commanded the fort. On
being told it was Captain La Mott, he gave a
heavy sigh, saying that La Mott was a usurper,
and he the rightful commander. The people
thought him crazy or his mind wandering, and
they bathed his head with cold water. When
sufficiently recovered from exhaustion, he told
them that he was Tonti, and come here to die.
The old man's statements, although at first dis¬
credited by most of those present, created much
excitement among the soldiers, but when con¬
vinced of its truthfulness, one after another came
forward and embraced him.
Sixteen years had made a great change in the
FORT BURNED—COLONY BROKEN UP. 123
appearance of Tonti, and he was scarcely recog¬
nized by his most intimate friends. His tall
manly form was bent by disease, his piercing
black eyes were dimmed with age, and his raven
black hair was now white as snow.
News of Tonti's arrival at Fort St. Louis spread
throughout the country, and the French, half-
breeds and Indians at the different villages came
to see him. But, alas, those who had known him
while in the vigor of manhood, could scarcely
be convinced that the feeble old man that they
now beheld was once the proud, brave and fear¬
less Tonti of former years.
A few days after Tonti arrived at the fort he
took the sacrament at the hands of a priest, and
while looking upon a gold crucifix which was
held before his face, he breathed his last. A grave
was dug on the river bank, close to the west end
of Starved Rock, in which his remains found a
long resting place.
For many years after Tonti's death, both French
and Indians while passing up and down the river
would stop to visit his grave, and sometimes place
upon it flowers or mementoes in memory of him
who sleeps beneath.
FORT ST. LOUIS BURNED AND COLONY BROKEN UP.
So long as the fur trade was conducted by Tonti
124 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
and La Frost, the Indians were well pleased with
their manner of doing business, but when it came
under the supervision of the Governor of Canada,
a new order of things was introduced, which
caused much dissatisfaction. The governor ap¬
pointed unscrupulous agents to conduct th.e trade,
who swindled the Indians by selling them worth¬
less articles, such as counterfeit jewelry, knives,
tomahawks. &c., made of pot-metal. These
traders paid the government a certain duty on all
pelts shipped to Canada, and no one was allowed
to trade with the Indians unless authorized to do
so by the governor. The duty consisted of a
certain number of skins out of each cargo, which
the traders compelled the Indians to furnish,
otherwise their value was deducted on making
payment. The Indians being imposed upon by
these swindlers, an unfriendly feeling sprung up
up between them.
There were other causes of ill feeling between
the French and Indians, among which was the
marriage relation. A Frenchman having married
a young squaw would put her away as soon as he
found another one more attractive, thus changing
his wife at will according to his fancy. Although
the priests would not tolerate bigamy among their
countrymen, yet they were willing to accept a
marriage fee once a month, twice a week, or as
FORT BURNED—COLONY BROKEN UP. 125
often as the applicant desired a new wife. The
young squaws were fond of beads, rings and other
trinkets, with which they would adorn their per¬
sons, and the one giving them the most presents
they were willing to marry. It was the higlit of
their ambition to marry a white man, notwith¬
standing they were liable to be put away at any
time, if their lord found one more attractive than
themselves.
Under the Indian code of morals, a squaw, if
found unchaste, was punished by cutting off one
ear or branded on the forehead, but there was no
law to prevent them marrying every day in the
week, or as often as an opportunity occurred.
Captain La Mott was now in command of the
fort, and being a man fond of pleasure, and de¬
void of conscientious scruples, converted it into
a regular harem, in open violation of both the
French and Indian code of morals. Young In¬
dian maidens were in the habit of spending their
nights at the fort, under the pretext of being mar¬
ried to soldiers, returning home iu the morning
with their heads^adorned with worthless trinkets,
and their minds poisoned by vile associations.
The squaws became so facinated with the French
that many refused to marry among their own peo
pie, and had come to the conclusion that their
children were not worth raising, unless they had
126 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
French blood in their veins. Things had come
to such a state in their social relations, that the
head chief, Jero, called a council of chiefs and
warriors, and at which it was agreed to expel the
French from among them.
On a warm morning in the latter part of the
summer of 1718, while most of the occupants of
Fort St. Louis, after a night of revelry and de¬
bauchery, were still asleep in their bunks, when
suddenly aroused by the presence of the
avengers. Captain La Mott, awakening from
his morning nap, was astonished on being con¬
fronted by about three hundred warriors, armed
and painted as for war. The Captain inquired
the object of their visit, when Jero, the head chief,
informed him that they were here to destroy the
fort. The chief ordered the warriors to fire the
buildings, and in a few moments the block-house,
store-house and dwellings were in flames, all of
which were burned to the ground. Thus Fort
St. Louis was destroyed, after standing thirty-six
years, and being the head-center of the French
settlement in Illinois.
On the destruction of the fort the colony was
broken up ; some of the traders returned to Can¬
ada, others to the French settlement at Cahokia,
but the greater portion to Peoria Lake, where a
colony had been established seven years before.
RELICS OF FORT ST. LOUIS.
127
Three years after the burning of Fort St. Louis,
Charlevoix visited Illinois, and found the palis¬
ades still standing. No Frenchmen lived here
at that time, but in the great town near by were
seen scores of half-breed children.
Some years ago Gen. Cass brought from France
a manuscript, dated 1726, and relates to western
Indians. It speaks of a war existing between
the Illinoians and Sacs, and Foxes, of Green Bay.
It also refers to M. De Siette, commander in
Illinois, and of the propriety of calling a council
at Chicago, or at the Hock, undoubtedly meaning
Starved Rock.
RELICS OF FORT ST. LOUIS.
In the summer of 1805, a party at Kaskaskia,
learning from* tradition that a large amount of gold
had been buried within the stockades of Fort St
Louis, went in search of it. At that time the
location of Fort St. Louis was unknown. His¬
tory and tradition alike failed to point it out;
but they knew it was on a rock washed by the
rapid current of the Illinois, and a short distance
above the great bend in the river. On Buffalo
Rock they found as they supposed relics of the
fort, and here they spent a number of days in
searching for the hidden treasure. But finding
H
128 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIYER.
nothing, they returned home and published an
account of their expedition in the newspapers of
that day. In this account they describe the re¬
mains of the fort on a large rock, located on the
north side of the river, and from that time for¬
ward it was conceded that Fort St. Louis was
built on Buffalo Rock.
It has already been shown that Buffalo Rock did
not answer the description of the place spoken of in
history, but the natural advantages between these
two rocks for a fortification, could not escape the
observation of a»man with La Salle's shrewdness.
Buffalo Rock contains on its summit several
hundred acres of land, is only about sixty feet
high, and accessible at various points, consequent¬
ly it would require a large force to hold a fort
thus located. Whereas, Starved Rock is one
hundred and thirty-six feet high, contains on its
summit less than one acre, can only be reached at
one point, which makes it a natural fortress, where
but little labor would be required to make it
impregnable, so that a few soldiers could hold it
against all the savages of the west.
Immediately south of Starved Rock, and about
one hundred and fifty yards distant, is a high cliff
of rocks, isolated from the neighboring cliff's, and
known as Devil's Nose. Eastward, across a chasm
two hundred and fifty yards in width, and covered
HELIOS OF FORT ST. LOUIS.
129
with a thick growth of timber, is another rocky
cliff of equal hight. This cliff rises almost per¬
pendicularly from the water's edge, connecting
with the main bluff, and from an old Indian
legend is called Maiden's Leap. These two cliffs
are almost as high as Starved Rock, and if occu¬
pied by the assailants would be within gunshot
of the fort. Therefore, it became necessary to
protect the sides next to them with earthworks
and palisades. The earthworks on the sides next
to these cliffs, enclosing almost two-thirds of the
circumference of the rock, are still to be seen,
leaving that next to the river without any protec¬
tion whatever, as none were here needed. These
works commence at the western angle, following
the margin of the rock (which is of a circular
form) to the extreme east, leaving an open gate¬
way on the south, where the path ascends the
rock, and is one hundred and twenty-two yards
in length. On the south side of the rock and all
along the earthworks, which are now covered
with small trees and stunted evergreens, are many
pit-holes, two of which are very large. It is
quite probable that one of these was the maga¬
zine of the garrison, and the other a cellar of
the store-house. The smaller pit-holes, which
are seen here and there among the bushes,
according to tradition, were dug forty-seven years
130 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
after Fort St. Louis was destroyed, and under the
following circumstances :
When the Governor of Canada took possession
of Fort St. Louis, all the goods and furs belonging
to the traders were confiscated to the government
and report says divided between the governor and
his friends. Tonti, having at the time, in his
possession a large amount of gold, dug a hole
within the stockades and buried it to prevent its
falling into the hands of the governor. Sixteen
years afterwards, as Tonti was about breathing
his last, he told a priest who was holding a gold
crucifix before his face, about the gold being
buried within the fort. The priest kept the matter
a secret, waiting for an opportunity to resurrect
the gold, but soon after he was drowned in the
river by the upsetting of a canoe. The fort was
also burned and the French driven away, as pre¬
viously stated.
In the summer of 1765, forty-seven years after
Fort St. Louis was abandoned, a party of French
at Peoria, among whom were Captain De Fond
and Father Buche, believing the story about gold
being buried in the fort, came up the a-iver in
search of it. They encamped at the base of
Starved Rock, and spent many days in digging
011 its summit. No gold was found, but in a vault
near where the store-house liad stood, they found
RELICS OP PORT ST. LOUIS.
131
a large number of articles designed for the Indian
trade, consisting of tomahawks, knives, beads,
guns and other articles. The digging for gold on
Starved Rock accounts for the many pit-holes
now to be seen.
This account of searching for gold is given in
Father Buche's manuscript, now in possession of
Hypolite Pilette, and from which many extracts
are taken. Said he, "We had spent five days in
digging pit-holes on the summit of Le Rocher,
and found a large quantity of articles which
were intended for the Indian trade, but the
precious metal—the object of our search—we
found none. On the last day of our stay we dug
a hole close to the old earthwork, and continued
working until it was quite dark, when the devil
appeared to us in the form of a huge bear. On
seeing this monster we dropped our tools and
hurried down from the rock, put our camp kit in
the canoe and started down the river."
This story of gold being buried within the
stockades of Fort St. Louis, is also among the
Indian traditions, and some years ago a party of
Pottawatomies from Western Kansas came here
to search for it. People told them that Fort St.
Louis was built on Buffalo Rock, and on it they
dug a number of pit-holes, but finding nothing
they returned to their homes.
CHAPTER XII.
FKENOH SETTLEMENT AT PEORIA.
At what time the French commenced a settle¬
ment at Peoria,has long been a controverted point
on which history and tradition are alike defective.
Some believe it commenced when La Salle built
Fort Creve Ceour, in the year 1680, and from
that time people continued to reside here. Others
fix the permanent settlement of the place about
the year 1760; but from an old letter in the pos¬
session of a descendant of an early pioneer, as
well as traditionary accounts, it is quite evident
that it commenced at an early period. I have
given this subject much attention by gathering
up scraps of history relating to it, and by con¬
versing with many of the descendants of the
Peoria French, some of whom trace their genea-
logy back to the days of La Salle. By comparing
these different accounts it is shown conclusively
that the settlement at Peoria commenced in the
FRENCH SETTLEMENT AT PEORIA. 133
year 1711, and under the following circumstances :
In the summer of 1711, Father Marest, a Jesuit
priest from Canada, preached to the Indians at
Cahokia, and by the force of his eloquence a large
number of them were converted to Christianity.
Among these converts was a chief named Kolet,
from Peoria, who at the time was at Cahokia,
visiting friends. The chief prevailed on Father
Marest to accompany him home to his village at
Peoria Lake, and proclaim salvation to his people.
Late in November the priest and chief, accompa¬
nied by two warriors, started in a bark canoe for
Peoria, but after going ten leagues the river froze
up, so that further progress by water was out of
the question ; therefore the travelers hid their
canoe, with most of their baggage, in the thick
river timber, and continued their journey on foot.
For twelve days they waded through snow and
water, crossing big prairies and through thick
timber, full of briars and thorns. Sometimes
crossing marshes and streams where the ice would
give way, letting them into water up to their
necks. At night they slept on dry grass or leaves,
gathered from under the snow, without shelter or
anything but their blankets to protect them from
the cold winter blast. The provisions for their
journey, as well as their bedding, was left with
their canoe, consequently they were obliged to
134 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
subsist on wild grapes and game killed by the
way. After many days of fatigue and exposure,
their limbs frost bitten, and their bodies reduced
in flesh from starvation, they at last reached
the village, and from the natives received a hearty
welcome.
This Indian village (afterwards called Opa by
the French) was situated on the west bank oí
Peoria Lake, one mile and a half above its outlet.
On La ¡Salle's first visit to this place, thirty-one
years before, he found here a large town, and was
cordially received by the head chief, Niconope.
This chief had long since been gathered to his
fathers, and his place was occcupied by Kolet,
above referred to.
Father Marest found quarters in an Indian
lodge, and remained in the village until spring
without meeting with one of his countrymen.
He preached to the Indians almost daily, many
of whom embraced Christianity, and their names
were afterwards enrolled in the church book.
On the following spring the French at Fort St.
Louis established a trading post at Peoria Lake,
and a number of families came thither from
Canada and built cabins in the Indian village.
For fifty years the French and half-breeds con¬
tinued to live in the town with the Indians, and
during that period peace and harmony prevailed
LA VILLE DE MALLET.
135
among them. But in course of time this town
was abandoned for one that figured extensively
in its day, and known in history as
LA VILLE DE MAILLET.
In the summer of 1761, Robert Maillet, a
trader of Peoria, built a dwelling one mile and a
half below the town, near the outlet of the lake,
and moved his family thither. Here the land
rises gradually from the water's edge until it
reaches the high prairie in the rear, forming a
beautiful sloping plateau, unequalled by any spot
on the Illinois river. * This locality for a town
was considered preferable to the old one, the
ground being dryer, the water better, and it was
considered more healthy, consequently, others
came and built houses by the side of Maillet's.
The inhabitants gradually deserted the old town
for the new one, and within a few years the latter
became a place of great importance. No French
lived in the old town after the year 1764, but for
many years it remained an Indian village, and
the houses vacated by the French, were occupied
by the natives until they rotted down.
The new town took the name of La Ville de
Maillet (that is Maillet's village), after its proprie¬
tor, and was in existence fifty-one years. A fort
136 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
was built on high ground, overlooking the lake
on one side, and the sloping prairie on the
other. This fort consisted of two large block¬
houses, surrounded by earthworks and palisades,
with an open gateway to the south next to the
town, and was only intended as a place of retreat
in case of trouble with the Indians. The fort was
never occupied except a short time by Robert
Maillet, who used one of the block-houses for a
dwelling, and the other for the sale of goods.
Some years afterwards, Maillet left the fort for a
more desirable place of residence and trade, and
it remained vacant for many years, the enclosure
within the stockades being used by the citizens
in common for a cow-yard.
In 1820 Hypolite Maillet, in testifying in the
United States Court, in a suit brought on French
claims, said that he was forty-five years old, and
was born in a stockade fort which stood near the
southern extremity of Peoria Lake.
In the winter of 1788, a large party of Indians
came to Peoria for the purpose of trade, and in
accordance with their former practice, took quar¬
ters in the old fort. They purchased a cask of
brandy for the purpose of having a spree. All
got drunk, had a war dance, and during their
revelry set the block-houses on fire and burned
them down.
LA VILLE DE MAILLET.
137
When the Americans commenced a settlement
at Peoria, in the spring of 1819, the outlines of
the old French fort were plain to be seen on the
high ground, near the lake, and a short distance
above the present site of the Chicago and Rock
Island depot. The line of earthworks could be
traced out by the small embankments, and in some
places pieces of pickets were found above ground.
Back of the fort was the remains of a blacksmith
shop, and near by grew a wild plum tree. This
plum tree was dug up by John Brisket, the owner
of the land, and under it was fouud a vault con¬
taining a quanty of old metal, among which were
a number of gun-barrels, knives, tomahawks, cop¬
per and brass trinkets, &c. Among other things
found in this vault, were pieces of silver and brass
plate for inlaying gun-stocks, ornamenting knife-
handles, &c. These things appeared to be the
stock in trade of a gunsmith, and for some cause
unknown were buried here.*
According to the statements of Autoine Des
Champs, Thomas Forsyth and others, who had
long been residents of Peoria previous to its de¬
struction in 1812, we infer that the town con¬
tained a large population. It formed a link
between the settlements of Kaskaskia, Cahokia
and Canada, and being situated in the midst of
« " Ballance's History of Peoria."
188 FRENCH AND INDIAN8 OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
an Indian country, caused it to be a great place
of fur trade. At one time it contained about
sixty houses, besides many lodges occupied by
Indians part of the year. The town was built
along the beach of the lake, and to each house
was attached an out-lot for a garden, which ex¬
tended back some distance on the prairie. The
houses were all constructed of wood, some with
frame work and sided up with split timber, while
others were built with hewed logs, notched
together after the style of a pioneer's cabin.
The floors were laid with puncheons, and the
chimney built with mud and sticks.
General Clark conquered Illinois and took pos¬
session of the settlements at Kaskaskia and Cahokia
in 1778, after which he sent three soldiers with
two French Creoles, in a canoe to Peoria to no¬
tify the people that they were no longer under
British rule, but citizens of the United States.
Among these soldiers was a man named Nicholas
Smith, afterwards a resident of Bourbon county,
Kentucky, and whose son, Joseph Smith, (Dad
Joé) was the among the first American settlers at
Peoria. Through this channel we have an
account of Peoria as it appeared almost a century
ago, and which agrees well with other tradi¬
tionary accounts.
Mr. Smith said Peoria, at the time of his visit
FRENCH INHABITANTS AT PEORIA. 139
was a large town, built along the beach of the
lake, with narrow, unpaved streets, and houses
constructed of wood. Back of the town were
gardens, stock-yards, barns, &c., and among these
was a wine press with a large cellar or under¬
ground vault for storing wine. There was a
church with a large wooden cross rising above the
roof, and gilt lettering over the door. There was
an unoccupied fort on the bank of the lake, and
close by it was a wind-mill for grinding grain.
The town contained six stores or places of trade,
all of which were well filled with goods for the In¬
dian market. The inhabitants consisted of French
half breeds and Indians, not one of whom could
speak or understand English.
FRENCH INHABITANTS OF PEORIA.
The inhabitants of Peoria consisted of French
Creoles, emigrants from Canada, and half-breeds.
Many of them intermarried with the natives, so
that their posterity at the present time show strong
marks of Indian origin. They were a peaceable,
quiet people, ignorant and superstitious, and in¬
fluenced very much by the priests. They had no
public schools, and but few of them except priests
and traders, could read or write. Out of eighteen
claimants for the land where Peoria stands, all
140 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
but three signed their names with a mark.
Among the inhabitants were merchants or traders
who made annual trips to Canada in canoes, car¬
rying thither pelts and furs, and loading back
with goods for the Indian market. There were
mechanics among them, such as blacksmiths,
wagon-makers, carpenters, &c.; and most of the
implements used in farming and building were of
home manufacture. Although isolated from the
•civilized world, and surrounded by savages, their
standard of morality was high ; theft, murder and
robbery was seldom heard of. They were a gay,
joyous people, having many social parties, wine
suppers and balls ; living in harmony with the
Indians, who were their neighbors and friends,
and in trading with them they accumulated most
of their wealth.
The French settled at Peoria without a grant
or permission from any government, and the title
to their lands was derived from possession only.
But these titles were valid according to usages, as
well as a village ordinance, and lands were bought
and sold the same as if patented by government.
Each person had a right to claim any portion of
the unoccupied land, and when in possession his
title was regarded sacred. Every settler liad a
village lot for a garden attached to his residence,
and if a farmer, a portion in the common field.
FBENCH INHABITANTS OF PHOBIA. 141
On the prairie west of the town were extensive
farms, all enclosed in one field, each person 'con¬
tributing his share of fencing, and the time of
securing the crops and pasturing the stock, was
regulated by a town ordinance. The boundaries
of these farms could be traced out in the early
settlement of Peoria, as the lands showed marks
of having -been cultivated. When a young man
married, a village lot, and a tract of land in the
common field (if a farmer) was assigned to him,
and it was customary for the citizens to turn out
and build him a house.
The inhabitants of Peoria had extensive vine¬
yards, and each year made a large quantity of
wine, much of which they traded to the Indians
in exchange for furs. They domesticated the
buffalo and crossed them with native cattle, which
was found to improve the stock. These cattle
could live during the winter without the expense
of feeding, but while buffalo remained in the
country they lost many by straying off with the
herd. On the following summer, after the French
were driven away from Peoria, a party of adven¬
turers from St. Clair county came here and drove
a large number of these cattle home with them.
These cattle were highly prized by the inhabi¬
tants, as they would winter on the American
Bottoms without having to feed them. This
142 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
stock of cattle was known here for many years,
and at the present time some of their off-spring
show marks of buffalo origin, and their hides are
frequently tanned for robes.*
When a settlement was commenced at Peoria,
the country belonged to France, afterwards to
Great Britain, and lastly to the United Ststes.
When Illinois came under British rule in 1756,
Captain Stirling, commanding at Kaskaskia, sent
a messenger to Peoria to notify them that they
were British subjects. Afterwards, when Illinois
by conquest came under United States authority,
they were again notified of a change in govern¬
ment, but they still remained French in feeling
and sympathy. They claimed no allegiance to
any government, paid no taxes, and acknowledged
no law except their own village ordinance. While
these people were living in peace and harmony,
♦For one hundred years after the French made a settlement In
the west, no horses except Indian ponies were used by them,
and for the first thirty years cattle and hogs were unknown.
Tradition says two young pigs were brought in a canoe from
Canada to Fort St. Louis, and from these hogs were raised to
supply the settlements on the Mississippi. At Cahokia the
settlers caught a number of buffalo calves, and raised them
with the expectation of domesticating them, but it proved a
failure, for they went off with a herd of wild ones.
It Is said when Crozat obtained a patent for the Illinois coun¬
try, in 1771, then called Louisiana, his agent, Colonel De Mott,
employed two half-breeds to drive a herd of cattle through the
wilderness from Cana to Kaskaskia, and from these origina¬
ted the stock In the Mississippi valley.
FRENCH INHABITANTS OF PEORIA. 143
being two hundred miles from the nearest point
of civilization, they were attacked by an armed
force, their town burned and the heads of fami¬
lies carried off prisoners of war, as will be narrated
in a subsequént chapter. There are many inci¬
dents related, showing that trouble existed at
different times between the French and their red
neighbors, among which are the following :
In the year 1781, a Frenchman killed an Indian
with whom he had trouble, and for a time all the
white population were threatened with destruc¬
tion. A large party of warriors came to Peoria
and demanded the murderer, but he could not be
found, having fled down the river, as was after¬
wards shown. But the Indians believed that the
murderer was secreted by his friends, so they
gave the French three days to deliver him up,
and if not forthcoming at the specified time they
would burn the town. This caused a great panic ;
some fled for Cahokia, others took quarters in the
fort, but before the time had expired, the Indians
were convinced that the murderer had fled, con¬
sequently pledges of friendship were renewed.
Again, in 1790, about five hundred warriors
came to Peoria and demanded the surrender of a
certain trader, whom they accused of causing the
murder of Pierre de Beuro, but finally left with¬
out him.
CHAPTER XIII.
PONTIAC.
Probably no North American Indian has ac¬
quired so much fame and notoriety, and whose
power was so much felt in the early, settle¬
ment of the country, as Pontiac. This Indian,
to whom historians so often refer, was born and
raised near Detroit, and for many years was head
chief of the Ottawas. Like Phillip, of Mount
Hope, his power and influence extended over
neighboring tribes, and he was more like a king
than a chief. So long as the French held domin¬
ion over the west, and conducted the trade of the
lake country, Pontiac lived on friendly terms with
them, but when it came in posession of the
British, he denounced the latter as enemies to his
people, and made an effort to drive them from
the country. While Major Rogers, of the British
army, was marching westward with a regiment of
soldiers, for the purpose of taking possession of
Detroit, he was met by Pontiac, who inquired by
PONTIAC.
145
what authority he was passing through his coun¬
try. With his tall figure raised to its full higlit,
and while holding his right hand before the face
of the British commander, he said to him, "I
stand in your path, and you can go no further
without my permission."
However, Pontiac allowed the British to take
possession of the French trading posts along the
lakes, and for a time professed to be friendly toward
them. But a few years afterwards he made war
against the red coats and tried to drive them from
the country. He united with him all the neigh¬
boring tribes, forming what is known in history
as Pontiac's Conspiracy, and a long and bloody
war resulted.
In order to carry on the war, this great chief
issued checks cut out of birch bark, calling
for various amounts, payable in furs. These
checks were taken by different tribes in payment
for munitions of war, and all of which were re¬
deemed according to agreement.
Pontiac was an Indian of gigantic statue ; a
towering intellect, and exercised almost unlimited
power over his followers. He pretended to com¬
mune with the Great Spirit, who on one occasion
said to him : " Why do you let these dogs in red
clothing take possesion of your country; rise in
your might and drive them from the land."
146 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
Pontiac, in an address to his warriors, said :
" Although the red coats have conquered the
French, they have not conqnered us. We are
not slaves nor squaws, and as long as the Great
Spirit is our ruler, we will maintain our rights.
These lakes, and these woods were given us by
our fathers, and we will part with them only with
our lives."
For a long time Pontiac was victorious, but at
last the fortune of war turned against him ; then
his allies forsook his cause and made peace with
the British. On being betrayed by his allies, he
lied from the country and found refuge on the
Kankakee river, a short distance above its junc¬
tion with the Illinois. In his fight from Michi¬
gan he was accompanied by about two hundred
warriors, with their squaws and pappooses. With
this remnant of his band he formed an alliance
with the Pottawatomies, who, at that time, occu¬
pied the lake and Wabash counties, and from
thenceforth they became one tribe.
Pontiac, by locating his band on Kankakee
river, gave offense to the Illinois Indians, who
were the owners of the land ; consequently,
Kiueboo, the head chief, accompanied by a reti¬
nue of warriors, mounted on ponies, went to the
Ottawa camp,- where they found the new comers
engaged in building lodges and making prepara-
MASSACRE OF A HUNTING PARTY.
147
tions to plant corn. Kineboo notified them that
they were trespassers, and gave them two moons
to leave the country, but if found there at the
expiration of that time, he would remove them
by force. But when the Illinoians found that the
Ottawas were backed by the powerful tribe of
Pottawatomies, they did not molest them.
MASSACRE OF A HUNTING PARTY.
During the summer season the buffalo, on ac¬
count of the green-headed flies, would leave the
Wabash country and the prairies on the east part
of the State, and range west and north of the
Illinois river. Consequently, buffalo were sel¬
dom seen south and east, while the prairies to the
westward, for miles in extent, were frequently
blackened with large herds of them. On this
account the Pottawatomies and Ottawas were in
the habit of hunting buffalo west of the river,
which gave offense to the Illinoians, the "owners
of the country, and who regarded these hunting
parties as trespassers on their rights.
A party of about thirty Ottawa hunters, among
whom was Pontiac, had been killing buffalo du¬
ring the day on the prairie, about eight leagues
west of La Vantum. At night they camped in a
grove of timber, with the intention of renewing
i
148 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
the hunt the following day. Next morning,
while this hunting party were sitting around the
camp-fire cooking their breakfast, unconscious of
danger, they were attacked by a large party of
Illinois warriors, and the most of them slain.
Pontiac was wounded in this affair, but by the
swiftness of his pony made his escape.*
A bloody war followed this massacre of the
hunting party, and for a long time was carried on
with varying success, both sides meeting with
victories and defeats. The Pottawatomies and
Ottawas would send war parties into the Illinois
»The grove referred to is supposed to have been the head of
Bureau timber, near the village of La Moille, and known in the
early settlement of the country as Dimmick Grove. In the
spring of 1830 Daniel Dimmick made a claim here, and built a
cabin near the head of the grove, on what is now known as the
Collin's farm. He lived on this claim about two years, until
the beginning of the Black Hawk war, when he left it and
never returned, but for many years the grove bore his name.
A short distance below Dimmick's cabin, near the bank of
Pike creek, and by the side of a spring, was an old Indian
camping ground, and during the fall and winter hunting par¬
ties were frequently found here. In the winter of 1830-31, a
party of Indians from the Illinois river, among whom was the
noted chief Shick Shack, were encamped here for many days,
while hunting deer in the grove.
Shick Shack said to Dimmick, while in conversation, that a
long time ago a hunting party of Ottawa Indians were en¬
camped on this very spot, when they were attacked by the
Illinoians, a large portion of them killed, and their great war
chief, Pontiac, wounded. From that time, continued the old
chief, the tribes were at war with each other, which continued
until all the Illinoians were slain, the last of whom perished
on Starved Rock.
ASSASSINATION OF PONTIAC. 149
country, burn their towns, destroy their corn,
kill their squaws and pappooses, and carry off
with them ponies, furs and other valuables. Then
the Illinoians would retaliate on their enemies by
making raids into their country, killing, burning
and destroying everything that lay in their way.
After this war had continued for some time, the
Illinoians sued for peace, and a council was called
to agree on terms.
INDIAN COUNCIL—PONTIAC A88ASSINATED.
The council met at a mound near the present
site of Joliet, and was attended by all the war-
chiefs of the respective tribes. For a time, the
deliberations of the council were harmonious, but
when the allies claimed a part of the Illinois ter¬
ritory as the only condition of peace, there arose
an ill feeling among them. Kineboo, the head
chief of the Illinoians, in a. speech, said: "Rather
than submit to these terms, he and his warriors
would sacrifice the last drop of blood in their
veins, and leave their squaws and pappooses to be
scalped by a barbarous enemy." Pontiac next
addressed the council. His tall, manly form,
unimpaired by age, was an object of admiration,
and his sprightly eloquence carried all his friends
with him. With great enthusiasm he called on
150 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
his brother chiefs to stand by him, and never lay
down the tomahawk until their terms were ac¬
ceded to. While Pontiac was thus talking,
Kineboo drew his scalping knife and stabbed him
to the heart. Thus perished the greatest warrior
of his day.
History gives various accounts of Pontiac's
death, the year and place of its occurrence, and the
manner oí his end are conflicting. One account
says he was assassinated in council ; another that
he was killed in a drunken row at Cahokia, and
also killed while on a buffalo hunt. However,
all accounts agree that in avenging his death a
war was inaugurated which resulted in the anni¬
hilation of the Illinois Indians, but all fail to
show any connection between the two events.*
*In the summer of 1767 a large, prepossessing Ottawa Indian,
dressed in a French uniform, with a white feather in his cap,
came to St. Louis and represented himself to the commander
of the post, Lieut. Ange, as Pontiac. Some days afterward,
this pompous Indian crossed the river in a canoe and went
down to Oahokia, where he was much lionized by French and
half-breeds, all of whom believed him to be the great Ottawa
chief, Pontiac. Indians from a neighboring village came in to
see him and listen to his boasting harangues, in which he said
he intended to unite all the tribes of the west, drive the British
from the country, and restore to the French all their former
trading posts.
An English trader at Cahokia, named Williamson, being
afraid that Pontiac would induce his new made friends to de¬
stroy his stock in trade, gave a drunken Indian a barrel of
whisky to assassinate him. While the reputed Pontiac was
sitting on the ground at the root of a tree, explaining to those
A8SAS8INATION OF PONTIAC.
151
The assassination of Pontiac caused mourning
throughout the country, and preparations were
made to avenge his death. Runners were sent
among the Winnebagoes of the north, and among
the Kickapoos of the southeast, all of whom
agreed to take part in the war and punish the
murderers of this great Indian champion.
With these tribes united, the war was renewed
with great vigor, and for savage barbarity it has
no parallel in Indian warfare. Instead of its be¬
ing a war of conquest, as before, it became a war
of extermination, and resulted in the annihilation
of the Illinois Indians, and their country occu¬
pied by the conquerors, as will be shown in the
succeeding chapters.
Over the remains of Pontiac the warriors held
a council, at which they swore by the great
around him the plans which he had adopted to drive the red
coats out oi the country, the drunken Indian employed by
Williamson came up behind him and buried his tomahawk in
his brain. An account of this affair found its way into the
newspapers of the day, and became a matter of history. This
account of the death of Pontiac was strengthened by his actual
death, which occurred a year or two afterward, and explains to
some extent the errors of history.
According to the statement of Shaubena, Waubonsie, and
other Indians, Pontiac was assassinated while speaking in
council at Mt. Joliet, and the war which followed it caused the
destruction of the Illinois Indians.
A band of Ottawa Indians, known as Pontiac's, were living at
a village on Kankakee river, in the early settlement of the
country, and their descendants are now living in Western
Kansas.
152 FRENCH SETTLEMENT AT PEORIA.
Manito of war that the fallen champion's death
should be avenged, and they set to work prepar¬
ing for its execution. As soon as Pontiac had
breathed his last, they cut off his head and legs,
boiled them to separate the flesh from the bones,
and with the skull and cross-bones placed on a
pointed pole, were prepared to go forth to victory.
Warriors of different tribes, who had fought
with Pontiac against the British, now came for¬
ward to avenge his death. Pottawatamies, of
Michigan, Miamis and Kickapoos, from the Wa¬
bash, came west and took part in the war. Even
the white outlaw, Bernett, who had long since
become a savage and a chief of a small band,
marshaled his warriors and took part in the bloody
strife which followed. The combined forces of
the different tribes constituted the most formi¬
dable Indian army ever collected in the west,
and for savage brutality their acts have no par¬
allel in the history of Indian warfare. Their
motto was victory or death—no quarter to the
enemy, and never lay down the tomahawk until
the Illinoians were annihilated
The allied forces attacked and destroyed all the
villages along the Illinois river, killing and scalp¬
ing defenceless squaws and pappooses ; but the
principal town, La Van turn, which was well forti¬
fied and defended by the bravest warriors, they
AVENGING THE DEATH OF PONTIAC. 153
liad not molested. At this town the remnants of
the different bands were collected, and here they
intended to make their last defense against the
victorious invaders.
Small timbers and brush were brought from
the neighboring groves, with which barricades
were erected around three sides of the town, the
river bounding the fourth. Inside this fortifica¬
tion were collected, from many distant towns, all
that was now left of the Illinois Indians, num¬
bering about ten thousand, of whom two thousand
were warriors.
Days and weeks passed away—the summer was
almost ended—and the enemy had not been seen
in the vicinity, so they came to the conclusion
that they had left the country. Preparations were
made for holding a great feast and offering up
sacrifices to the Manito of war for deliverance
from the tomahawks, and scalping knives of their
enemies. Fronting the council-house an altar
was erected, and many of their most valuable
articles burned thereon. A number of favorite
dogs were killed and roasted whole, on which the
warriors feasted, while offering up prayer and
thanksgiving to the gods of war. Music and
dancing was again heard in the great Illinois
capital, and the people, old and young, gave
themselves up to enjoyment. The warriors
154 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
brought forth the scalps taken from the enemy,
and in merry glee danced around them. Naked
pappooses played in the dirt, and ran to and fro
yelling and laughing as in former times. Young
maidens and their lovers amused themselves with
songs and dances, and talked of happy days in
future. For weeks the Indians gave themselves
up to feasting and amusement, unconscious of the
great calamity which was about to befall them.
It was near the close of a warm day in the
early part of Indian summer, when the Indians
of both sexes, arrayed in their best apparel, orna¬
mented with beads, feathers and rings, were
collected in an open square on the river bank to
celebrate the marriage of the head chiefs daughter.
But while in the midst of gaity, they were hor¬
rified to see the great meadow back of the town,
covered with the enemy, who, with great rapidity,
were moving on them. In front of the invaders,
on a red pole, was carried the skull and cross-
bones of Pontiac, showing that no quarter would
be asked or given.
The drums beat; the warriors grasped their
arms, and in a moment were ready tor battle,
while a wail of lamentation was raised by the
frightened squaws and pappooses. On came the
allied forces, with theirwar-clubs and tomahawks
raised above their heads, and so rapid was their
AVENGING THE DEATH OF PONTIAC. 155
movement, without opposition, a large number
of them scaled the breastwork and entered the
town. But here the assailants were met by the
defenders, and most of them slain before they could
recross it and join their comrades. When the in¬
vaders saw the fate of their advanced force, they
were spell-bound, and before recovering from their
panic, the Illinoians in a large force attacked
them, when they fled in confusion, leaving behind
their dead and wounded.
The attacking party being repulsed with great
slaughter, retired to Buffalo Rock, where they
called a council of war, at which speeches were
made by the leading war-chiefs, all of whom
favored prosecuting the war.
In this council it was agreed to renew the attack
in the morning, and never cease fighting until the
Illinoians were exterminated. The morning came,
and with it came blood and carnage, unequaled
in Indian warfare.
After the invaders were repulsed the Illinoians
spent the night in dancing over the scalps they
had taken during the day, and offering up sacri¬
fices to the great Manito of war for their success
in battle. Having spent the night in rejoicing
they were found asleep in the morning, and while
in this situation were again attacked, and before
they could marshal their hosts the invaders, in
156 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
great numbers, entered the town, killing all that
lay in their course, sparing neither squaws,
pappooses, aged or infirm. But the assailants
were again met by brave Illinois warriors and
repulsed with great slaughter. Again and again
the town was entered, when a hand to hand con¬
flict raged with fearful strife, the allies falling
back only for reinforcements.
For twelve long hours the battle raged, a large
portion of the Illinois warriors were slain, and
hundreds of squaws and pappooses lay lifeless in
their bloody gore. Night at last came, but the
battle continued, and against the large invading
force the defenders could make but a feeble re¬
sistance, and soon all must be slain. But fortu¬
nately a heavy rain storm came on, and in the
darkness of the night it became impossible to
distinguish friends from foes, consequently further
slaughter was suspended until morning.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE KOCK OF REFUGE.*
During a heavy rain storm and the darkness of
the night, the Illinoians launched iheir canoes,
crossed the river and ascended Starved Rock.
Here on this rock were collected the remnant of
the Illinois Indians, consisting of about twelve
hundred, three hundred of whom were warriors.
On this rock the fugitives considered themselves
safe from their enemies, and they offered up
prayers and sang songs of praise to the great
Manito for their safe deliverance. Many years
* On the 16th of September, 1873, a meeting was held on
Starved Rock to commemorate the two hundredth anniver¬
sary of its discovery by Joliet and Marquette. This meeting
was attended by a large number of people from the neighbor¬
ing towns, many speeches were made, toasts given, and the
celebration was a great success. A high pole was erected on
the summit of the Rock fröm which waved the stars and
stripes, where the French flag had waved nearly two centuries
before.
At this meeting, one Perry Armstrong of Grundy county, de¬
livered a speech entitled, "A Legend of Starved Rock," pur¬
porting to be the statement of an old Indian chief named
Shick Shack. This speech was extensively copied by news-
158 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
before, Tonti, with fifty French soldiers and one
hundred Indian allies, held this rock when at¬
tacked by two thousand Iroquois, and put them to
flight; consequently, on this spot they felt secure.
Morning came, and with it a clear sky and a
bright sun ; and from their elevated position they
looked down on their enemies encamped on the
great meadow below. Soon the allied forces were
in motion, moving on the town for the purpose
of completing their bloody work ; but they soon
discovered that their intended victims had fled.
The town was burned and the slain left unburied,
where their swollen and distorted remains were
found some days afterwards.
papers, and read with interest by those who regarded the
legend quite probable, if not strictly true.
Poor old Shick Shack, who long since had gone to the happy
hunting groúnds of his fathers, was made to give a detailed ac¬
count of many great battles fought along the Illinois river, and
the final tragedy on Starved Rock, in all of which he bore a part,
but in fact must have occurred a short time before he fras born,
if we credit the traditions of others.
But the most remarkable part of Shick Shack's story, Is the
great duei fought near Terre Haute, Indiana, with three hun¬
dred on a side and among the combatants was himself and an¬
other Chief named Sugar. This duel lasted twelve long hours,
when all the warriors were killed except five on one side
and seven on the other. The old chief informed us that neither
himself nor Sugar were killed in this long and bloody affair.
This great duel described by Shick Shack, is thought to be the
same one spoken of in the Bible between the hosts of Abner
and Joab, and the place of meeting, Pool of Gibeon, instead of
Terre Haute, as above stated, and the number of combatants
having been increased from twelve on each side to three hun¬
dred, in order to correspond with the balance of the legend.
THE ROOK OF REFUGE.
159
The allied forces forded the river on the rapids,
surrounded Starved Rock,and prepared themselves
for ascending it in order to complete their victory.
With deafening yells the warriors crowded up
the rocky pathway, but on reaching the summit
they were met by brave Illinoians, who, with
war-clubs and tomahawks, sent them bleeding and
lifeless down the rugged precipice. Others as¬
cended the rock to take part in the fight, but
they, too, met the fate of their comrades. Again
and again the assailants rallied, and rushed for¬
ward to assist their friends, but one after another
were slain on reaching its summit, and their life¬
less bodies thrown from the rock into the river.
On came fresh bands of assailants, who were
made valiant by their late victory, and the fearful
struggle continued until the rock was red and
slippery with human gore. After losing many
of their bravest warriors, the attacking forces
abandoned the assault and retired from the bloody
scene.
Connected with this bloody battle on Starved
Rock is a romantic story, which was current at
the time among the French and half-breeds at
Peoria, and is now told by their descendants. A
young warrior, named Belix, a half-breed, who
had distinguished himself in previous battles, and
therefore wore on his breast a badge of honor.
J
160 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
This young brave having wooed and won a beau¬
tiful maiden, a daughter of the head chief, Kine-
boo, and the time had arrived to celebrate the
marriage rites. But in the midst of the marriage
festival, and before the bride was given away, the
alarm of an approaching enemy was given, as
previously stated. When the allied fences as¬
saulted the fugitives on Starved Rock, foremost
among the warriors in repelling the assailants, was
Belix, and with his war-club cleaved the skulls of
many of the enemy. During the fight his fancied
bride stood near by witnessing the bloody strife,
but when she saw her lover's skull split open by a
tomahawk, with a wild scream she sprang from the
rock down the fearful precipice, her body falling
from crag to crag, until it landed lifeless and
bleeding in the river below.
THE BESIEGERS AND BESIEGED.
On a high, rocky cliff south of Starved Rock,
and known as Devil's Nose, the allied forces
erected a temporary fortification. During the
night they collected small timbers and evergreen,
brush, with which they erected a breastwork.
From this breastwork they fired on the besieged,
killing some and wounding others, among the
latter was Kineboo, the head chief of the tribe.
THE BESIEGERS AND BESIEGED. 161
The fortifications protecting the south part of
Starved Rock, had fallen into decay, fifty-one
years having elapsed since the French abandoned
Fort St. Louis. The palisades had rotted off, and
the earthworks, mouldered away to one-half their
original bight, consequently they afforded but little
protection. To remedy the defect on this side of
the old fortress, the besieged cut down some of
the stunted cedars that crowded the summit of
the rock, with which they erected barricades along
the embankment to shield themselves from the
arrows and rifle balls of the enemy.
The besieged were now protected from the
missiles of their assailants, but another enemy
equally dreaded—that of hunger and thirst—be¬
gan to alarm them. When they took refuge here
on the rock, they carried with them a quantity of
provisions, but this supply was now exhausted
and starvation stared them in the face. At
first this rock was thought to be a haven of
safety, but now it was likely to be their tomb,
and without a murmur brave warriors made
preparations to meet their fate. Day after day
passed away, mornings and evenings came and
went, and still the Illinoians continued to be
closely guarded by the enemy, leaving them no
opportunity to escape from their rocky prison.
Famishing with thirst caused them to cut up
162 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
some of their buckskin clothing, out of which
they made cords to draw water out of the river,
but the besiegers had placed a guard at the base
of the rock, and as soon as the vessel reached the
water they would cut the cord, or by giving it a
quick jerk the water drawer would be drawn over
the precipice, and his body fall lifeless into the
river.
As days passed away, the besieged sat on the
rock, gazing on the great meadow below, over
which they had oftimes roamed at pleasure, and
they sighed for freedom once more. The site of
their town was in plain view, but instead of
lodges and camping tents, with people passing to
and fro, as in former days, it was now a lonely,
dismal waste, blackened by fire and covered with
the swollen and ghastly remains of the slain.
Buzzards were hovering around, flying back and
forth over the desolated town, and feasting on the
dead bodies of their friends.
At night they looked upon the silent stars to¬
ward the spirit land, and in their wild imagination
saw angels waiting to receive them. While sleep¬
ing they dreamed of roaming over woods and
prairie in pursuit of game, or cantering their
ponies across the plains, but on awakening it was
found all a delusion. Their sleep was disturbed
by the moans and sighs of the suffering, and
THE BESIEGERS AND BESIEGED. 163
when morning came it was but the harbinger of
another day of torture. From their rocky prison
they could see the ripe corn in their fields, and
on the distant prairie a herd of buffalo were graz¬
ing, but while in sight of plenty they were fam¬
ishing for food. Below them, at the base of the
rock, flowed the river, and as its rippling waters
glided softly by, it appeared in mockery to their
burning thirst.
They had been twelve days on the rock, closely
guarded by the enemy, much of the time suffer¬
ing from hunger and thirst. Their small stock
of provision was long since exhausted, and early
and late the little ones were heard crying for
food. The mother would hold her infant to her
breast, but alas the fountain that supported life
had dried up, and the little sufferer would turn
its head away with a feeble cry. Young maidens,
whose comely form, sparkling eyes and blooming
cheeks were the pride of their tribe, became
pale, feeble and emaciated, and with a feeling of
resignation they looked upward to their home in
the spirit land. One of the squaws, the wife of
a noted chief, while suffering in a fit of delirium
caused by hunger and thirst, threw her infant
from the summit of the rock into the river below,
and with a wild, piercing scream, followed it.
A few brave warriors attemped to escape from
164 FEENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVEB.
their prison, but on descending from the rock
were slain by the vigilant guards. Others in
their wild frenzy hurled their tomahawks at the
fiends below, and singing their death song, laid
down to die.
The last lingering hope was now abandoned ;
hunger and thirst had done its dreadful work ;
the cries of the young and lamentations of the
aged were heard only in a whisper; their tongues
swollen and their lips crisped from thirst so they
could scarcely give utterance to their sufferings.
Old white headed chiefs, feeble and emaciated,
being reduced almost to skeletons, crept away
under the branches of evergreens and breathed
their last Proud young warriors preferred to die
upon this strange rocky fortress by starvation and
thirst, rather than surrender themselves to the
scalping knives of a victorious enemy. Many
had died ; their remains were lying here and
there on the rock, and the effluvium caused by
putrefaction greatly annoyed the besiegers. A
few of the more hardy warriors for a time feasted
on the dead, eating the flesh and drinking the
blood of their comrades as soon as life was extinct.
A party of the allied forces now ascended the
rock and tomahawked all those who had survived
the famine. They scalped old and young, and
left the remains to decay on the rock, where
THE BESIEGERS AND BESIEGED. 165
their bones were seen many years afterward.
Thus perished the large tribe of Illinois Indians,
and with the exception of a solitary warrior, they
became extinct.
Near the close of the siege of starved Rock, a
young warrior, during a severe storm and dark¬
ness of the night, took a buckskin cord which
had been used for drawing water, and fastening
it to the trunk of a tree let himself down into the
river. Escaping detection by the guards, he
swam down the river and thus secured his liberty,
being the only survivor of this fearful tragedy.
This warrior was partly white, being a descend¬
ant on his father's side from the French, who set¬
tled around Fort St. Louis many years before.
Being alone in the world, without kindred or
friends, he went to Peoria, joined the colony, and
there ended his days. He embraced Christianity,
became an officer in the church, and was chris¬
tened under an old French name, La Bell. His
descendants are now living near Prairie du Rocher,
one of whom, Charles La Bell, was a party to a
suit in the United States Court to recover the
land where the city of Peoria now stands *
♦In the early settlement of the country there was an old In¬
dian named Meachelle, who frequently visited the trading posts
at Hennepin and Ottawa, and made various statements about
the Starved Rock tragedy. He said he was a boy at the time,
accompanying his father; was present and saw the destruction
166 FKENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVEB.
A GHASTLY SPECTACLE.
A few days after the destruction of the Illinois
Indians, a party of traders from Peoria, among
whom were Robert Maillet and Felix La Pance,
while on their return from Canada with three
canoes loaded with goods, stopped at the scene of
the late tragedy. As they approached Starved
Rock, which at that time was called Le Rocher,
they noticed a cloud of buzzards hovering over
it, and at the same time they were greeted with a
sickening odor. On landing from their eanoes
and ascending the rock, they found the steep,
rocky pathway leading thereto stained with blood,
of the last of the Illinois Indians. After many days siege, said
he, a large number of warriors descended from the rock and
made an attempt to fight their way through the lines, but were
all slain except seven, who succeeded in escaping down the
river to Peoria, and found refuge among the French.
As late as the year 1828, a small band of Indians lived on Lake
Dupue, and raised corn on a little bottom prairie, now included
in a farm owned by Charles Savage. Among these Indians was
a very old man, who frequently accompanied his grandson in a
canoe to Hartzell's trading house. This old man said that he
was born on the Wabash, and was ten years old at the time of
the Starved Rock tragedy. His father participated in this
affair, and two of his uncles were killed in the fight with the
Illinoians before they took refuge on Starved Rock. He said
the fight continuechfor two days at the town, and hundreds of
warriors on both sides were slain, but during a rain storm and
darkness of the night, the remnant of the Illinoians escaped to
Starved Rock.
Two years after this affair, the band to which the old Indian
belonged emigrated to Illinois, and built a town on the south
side of the river, opposite Lake Dupue. At that time, and for
A GHASTLY SPECTACLE.
167
and among the stunted cedars that grew on the
cliff were lodged many human bodies, partly de¬
voured by birds of prey. But on reaching the
summit of Le Bocber, they were horrified to find
it covered with dead bodies, all in an advanced
state of decomposition. Here were aged chiefs,
with silvered locks, lying by the side of young
warriors, whose long raven black hair partly con¬
cealed their ghastly and distorted features. Here,
too, were squaws and pappooses, the aged grand¬
mother and the young maiden, with here and
there an infant, still clasped in its mother's arms.
many years afterwards, the summit of the rock was covered
with bones and skulls. Two miles below Starved Rock, on the
site of the town, where a great battle was fought, many acres
of ground were covered with human bones.
An old Indian called Shaddy, who went west with his band
in 1834, but afterwards returned to look once more upon the
scene of his youth, and hunted on Bureau and along the Illinois
river in the winter of 1836. From this old Indian I gathered
many items in relation to past events. He said that his father
was at the siege of Starved Rock, and all the Illinois Indians
perished except one. This was a young half-breed, who let
himself down into the river by means of a buckskin cord, dur¬
ing a severe rain storm, and in the darkness of the night made
his escape.
According to history, about one thousand Illinoians, but
known as Kaskaskia Indians, were living in the south part of
the State as late as 1802. The Indians at the south appear to
have taken no part in the war, and the destruction of the tribe
applied only to those along the Illinois river.
It is said some of the Illinois tribe took refuge with the French
at Peoria, and were afterwards known as Peoria Indians.
These conflicting statements are given only for what they are
worth, and from which the reader can draw his own conclusions.
168 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
Some had died from thirst and starvation, others
by the tomahawk or war-club ; of the latter a
pool of clotted blood was seen at their side. All
the dead, without regard to age or sex, had been
scalped, and their remains, divested of clothing,
were lying here and there on the rock. These
swollen and distorted remains were hideous to
look upon, and the stench from them so offensive
that the traders hastened down from the rock
and continued on their way down the river.
On reaching La Vantum, a short distance below
Le Rocher, the traders met with a still greater
surprise, and for a time were almost ready to be¬
lieve what they saw was all delusion instead of a
reality. The great town of the west had disap¬
peared ; not a lodge, camping tent, nor one human
being could be seen ; all was desolate, silent and
lonely. The ground where the town had stood
was strewn with dead bodies, and a pack of hun¬
gry wolves were feeding upon their hideous
repast.
Five months before, these traders, while on
their way to Canada, stopped at La Yantum for
a number of days in order to trade with the In
dians. At that time the inhabitants of the town
—about five thousand in number—were in full
enjoyment of life, but now their dead bodies lay
mouldering on the ground, food for wolves and
RELICS OF THE TRAGEDY.
169
buzzards. Maillet and La Pance had bought of
these people two canoe loads of furs and pelts,
which were to be paid in goods on their return
from Canada. The goods were now here to make
payment, according to contract, but alas the cred¬
itors had all gone to their long home.
The smell from hundreds of putrified and partly
consumed remains, was so offensive that the
traders remained only a short time, and with
sadness they turned away from this scene of hor¬
ror. Again boarding their canoes they passed
down the river to Peoria, conveying thither to
their friends the sad tidings.
RELICS OF THE TRAGEDY.
On the following spring, after the annihilation
of the Illinoians Indians, a parly of traders from
Cahokia, in canoes loaded with furs, visited Can¬
ada, making thither their annual trip in accord¬
ance with their former custom. On reaching
Peoria they heard of the destruction of the Illi¬
nois Indians on Starved Rock, and were afraid to
proceed further on their journey, not knowing
but the victors were still in the country, and they,
too, would meet with a like fate. After remain¬
ing a few days at Peoria, they proceeded on their
way, accompanied (as far as Starved Rock) by
170 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
twenty armed Frenchmen and about thirty In¬
dian. With this escort was Father Jacques Buche,
a Jesuit priest oí Peoria, and some account of his
observations are preseived in bis mauscript.*
When the voyageurs arrived atLaVantum, they
found the town site strewn with human bones.
These, with a few charred poles, alone marked
the location of the former great town of the west.
Scattered over the prairie were hundreds of skulls.
Some of these retained a portion of flesh and were
partly covered with long black hair, giving to the
remains a ghastly and sickening appearance.
This party also ascended Le Rocher, and found
its summit covered with bones and skulls. Among
these were found knives, tomahawks, rings,
beads and various trinkets, some of which the
travelers carried with them to Canada, and now
can be seen among the antiquarian collection at
Quebec.
Various accounts are given, both by French
and Indians, of seeing in after years relics of this
tragical affair on the summit of Starved Rock.
Bulbona, a French Indian trader, who was known
by many of the early settlers, said when a
small boy he accompanied his father in ascending
Starved Rock, and there saw many relics
•An account of this manuscript will be found in the succeed¬
ing chapter, and from which many extracts are taken.
RELICS OF THE TRAGEDY.
171
of this fearful tragedy. This was only fifteen
years after the massacre of the Illinois Indians,
and the rock was covered with skulls and bones,
all in a good state of preservation, but bleached
white by rain and sun.
On my first visit to Starved Rock, nearly forty
years ago, I found a number of human teeth and
small fragments of bones. Others have found
relics of the past, such as beads, rings, knives, &c.
About thirty-five years ago a human skull,
partly decayed, was found at the root of a cedar
tree, buried up with leaves and dirt. A rusty
tomahawk and a large scalping knife, with other
articles, also human bones, were taken out of a
pit hole, a few years ago. The early settlers
have found many things on the summit of Starved
Rock, and still retain them in their possession as
relics of the past.
CHAPTER XV.
THE OLD FORT.
In the river timber, about one-half mile south¬
east of Starved Rock, and on land belonging to
Mrs. Gäbet, is still to be seen- the remains of an
ancient fortification. This work of antiquity is
located on a level piece of ground, at the inter¬
section of two ravines, and consists of low, irregu¬
lar earthworks. These earthworks follow the
course of the ravines on two sides, forming zig¬
zag. lines, with an open gateway at the east, front¬
ing the prairie. These lines enclose about one
acre of ground, of an oblong shape, and is now
covered with large trees. This old relic appears
to.have been only a temporary fortification, con¬
sisting of a ditch, an embankment, and perhaps
palisades. At what time this fortification was
erected, by whom and for what purpose, will
probably remain a mystery.
There are various opinions about these old
earthworks. Some believe they were erected by
THE OLD FORT.
173
the French while in possession of Fort St. Louis,
and intended as a summer fort to protect them¬
selves from the Indians while raising a crop on
the adjoining prairie. But this is not probable, as
the prairie near by, in the early settlement of the
country, showed no marks of ever having been
cultivated ; and protection from the Indians was
unnecessary, as they always lived on friendly
terms with them. It could not have been the
work of the French, for it shows no signs of civil
engineering, and neither history nor tradition
give any account of it.
A few years ago a large burr oak was cut within
the fortification, and near the heart of it was
found imbedded a rifle ball, which, according to
the growths, must have been put there more than
a century ago. There are a number of large
trees growing on the embankment and in the
ditch, on various parts of the fortification, which
is evidence of its great antiquity. This old relic
is, without doubt, a workof the Mound Builders,
as similar remains are found elsewhere.
About two hundred yards northeast of this old
fort, by the side of a small ravine, a coal bank
was recently opened by James Bain, but on ac¬
count of the thinness of the vein it was found
unprofitable to work. This vein of coal is close
to the surface, only a few feet under ground, and
174 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
near the place where it was opened is a large
cavity in the earth. On examining this cavity
or excavation, it was found that the coal had
been taken out, and the enbankment on either
side, caused by throwing out the dirt, are now
covered with trees. This work must have been
done centuries ago, and some believe by the occu¬
pants of the fort above described.
RELICS OF ANTIQUITY.
In the vicinity of Starved Rock many relics of
the early French explorers have been found, con¬
sisting of farming implements of European man¬
ufacture, rifle and cannon balls, gold and silver
crosses, two bronze medallion heads, one oí Louis
XIV, and the other Pope Leo X.
A few years ago a small cannon was found
near Ottawa, imbedded in the river bank, where,
in all probability, it had remained a century or
more. This cannon is constructed of wrought
iron, hooped with heavy rings to give it strength,
like those used in Europe three hundred years
ago. This ancient piece of ordnance, in all prob¬
ability, was brought from Canada in a canoe /by
La Salle, or some of his men, to be used on a
fortification. It may have been the first one
mounted on the ramparts of Fort St Louis, and
RELICS OF ANTIQUITY.
175
at the time of its dedication fired a salute in honor
of the king of France.
A short time ago an old cedar tree was cut on
the summit of Starved Rock, and within its trunk
was found imbedded a gun-barrel, partly destroyed
by rust. How this gun-barrel came here will for¬
ever remain a mystery, but in all probability it
was the work of an ingenious Frenchman during
the occupation of Fort St. Louis. This gun-
barrel, with a portion of the tree which sur¬
rounded it, are preserved among the collections
of relics in Ottawa.
A few months ago, David "Walker found near
Buffalo Rock a piece of copper, about the size
and shape of a half dollar. This curious relic is
carved with rude characters, among which can be
traced the name of Tonti. It is quite probable
this is one of the medals which the commander
of Fort St. Louis distributed among his Indian
friends, of which we have an account.
While digging a cellar for a house, near the
base of Starved Rock, a short time ago, a human
skull was found, in which was a large sized flint
arrow head. On one side of the forehead of this
skull is a hole where the missile of death had en¬
tered. This skull, arrow head, Tonti's medal, an
iron Indian ax, on which is the name of Standish,
with a large collection of other Indian relics, are
K
1?6 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
now in the possession of David Walker of Ottawa.
Near Starved Rock, on both sides of the river,
many Indian relics have been found, consisting
of gun flints arrow heads, earthen pots and ket¬
tles, with tomahawks, knives, hoes, &c., made of
stone. Many of these relics have been collected
by people living in that locality, and will be pre¬
served in "The Ottawa Academy of Natural
Science."
On the north side of the river, a short distance
above Starved Rock, and on the bottom prairie,
are three sulphur springs. One of these springs
is very large, boiling up among the white sand,
and throwing out a large volume of clear
water strongly impregnated with saline matter.
In former times Indians from different parts
of the country, afflicted with maladies, came here
for medical treatment, which to some extent ac¬
counts for the great amount of relics found in this
vicinity.*
LOUISIANA COLONY.
This colony as has been previously stated, was
founded by La Salle, at Fort St. Louis, in the year
*In the year 1853 a large stone house, called the Sulphur Spring
Hotel, was built here with the expectation of making this a
great watering place, but the enterprise .was a failure. Not¬
withstanding the extensive advertising by those interested,
hey did not succeed in making it a Saratoga nor a Homburg.
LOUISIANA COLONY.
177
1682, under a charter from the king of France,
and was called Louisiana in honor of Louis XIY.
The colony existed here until 1718, a period of
thirty-six years, but had it continued permanently
La Salle countv would have been the oldest settled
«/
place in the west. One year after this colony
was established, La Salle gave Richard Bosley
a permit to trade with the Indians at Caliokia,
where Father Allonez had previously established
a mission. Emigrants from Canada came to Ca¬
liokia, many of whom became permanent residents,
and from that time people continued to reside
here, therefore it now claims to be the oldest
settlement in the Mississippi valley. The French
erected houses in the town with the Indians, and
all lived together in harmony. Marriages be¬
tween the French and Indians were legalized by
the Catholic church, and many of the traders found
wives among the blooming daughters of Illinois.
Some of the present inhabitants of Cahokia can
trace their genealogy back to the time of La Salle,
their ancestors having intermarried with the na¬
tives, so that in many families the Indian blood
predominates.
A French settlement was soon after made at
Kaskaskia, and a few years later a colony was
planted on the lower Mississippi. The whole
country took the name of Louisiana, designating
178 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
the north and south part by Illinois and Missis¬
sippi.
The king of France gave Crozat a patent for
all the Louisiana country, over which he was to
have control tor twenty years, for the purpose of
mining and trading with the Indians. This patent
bears date September 14, 1711, and was ratified
by the colonists of Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Fort
St. Louis. Colonel La Mott, an agent of Crozat,
took possession of the country, assuming the title
of Governor, and made Kaskaskia the capital.
The Indians showed the new governor two pieces
ot silver ore, which they said were taken out of
Illinois mines, but in fact came from Mexico.
Thinking only of making a great fortune, the
governor employed a company of miners, and
went north in search of the precious metal. Lead
and copper in great abundance were found,, but
no silver nor gold. After prospecting for two
years, and expending large sums of money in
searching for the precious metal, without meeting
with success, the scheme was abandoned.
Crozat, after five years experience in mining
and trading with the Indians, found it unprofita¬
ble, so he surrendered his patent to the French
Court, and Governor La Mott, with many of the
miners, returned to France.
On the year following the surrender of Crozat's
THE BUFFALO.
179
patent, a similar one was granted to George Law,
a Scotch banker of Paris, and by his orders Fort
Charters, on the Mississippi, was built.
In the spring of 1786 -D. Arquette commander
in Illinois, and Captain Vincennes, of a trading
post on the Wabash, (which still bears his name),
with about one hundred French soldiers and many
Indian allies, went to lower Louisiana to assist
Governor Bieneville in prosecuting a war against
the Chickasaws. This expedition proved a fail¬
ure, and the two commanders and Father Senac,
with many of the soldiers, were taken prisoners
and burned at the stake. While the flames en¬
veloped their bodies, Father Senac, amid the
blazing faggots, exhorted his companions to die
as become Frenchmen and Christians, and while
racked with torture he administered to his dying
countrymen the last rites of the Catholic church.
The colony in Illinois continued under French
rule until 1765, when it became subject to Great
Britain, and afterwards to the United States.
THE BUFFALO.
The flesh of the buffalo furnished the Indians
with food, their skins with clothing, bedding and
tents ; their sinews for bows, the bones and horns
for ornaments ; consequently, when these animals
180 FKENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVEK.
left tlie country, the wild savages of the west
were deprived of many of the comforts of life.
According to the statement of the early French
explorers, and also confirmed by Indian tradi¬
tions, the country west of the great bend in the
Illinois river, was the great buffalo range, and
here their bones were found in large quantities
in the early settlement of the country.
At what time the buffalo left the country is
not known, but in comparing the various state¬
ments of traders and Indians, it must have been
between 1780 and 7190. In the year 1778, An-
tonine Des Champs, then a lad of eight years of
age, came with his parents from Canada to Peo¬
ria, and lived there until the town was destroyed,
thirty-four years afterwards. Des Champs said,
for some years after he came to Peoria, buffalo
were plenty, and he had frequently seen large
herds of them swimming the Illinois river. Pre¬
vious to 1790 the French had an extensive trade
in buffalo robes, but after that period there were
none shipped from the Illinois river.
In the early settlement of the country, old In¬
dians were living here who said in their youthful
days they had seen large herds of buffalo on the
prairies, but they all perished in a big snow,
which covered the ground many feet in depth,
and crusted over so a person could walk on it.
pat Kennedy's journal.
181
Next spring a few buffalo, poor and haggard in
appearance, were seen going westward, and as
they approached the carcasses of the dead buffalo,
which were lying on the prairie in great numbers,
they would stop, commence pawing and lowing,
and then start off again on a lope for the west,
and from that time buffalo were seldom seen
east of the Mississippi river.
Although the buffalo had left the country, as
above stated, a few stray ones were occasionally
seen here in after years, and as late as 1815, the
Indians attacked a herd between the Illinois
and Green rivers, killing two of them.
Forty years ago buffalo bones were plenty on
the prairies; and in three different places in
Bureau county many acres of ground were covered
with them, showing where large herds had per¬
ished. Skulls of buffalo, with horns still on them,
were frequently found here, and their trails lead¬
ing, to and from watering places were plain to be
seen, in the early settlement of the country.*
pat Kennedy's journal.
Through the politeness of Lyman C. Draper,
Secretary of the Wisconsin Historical Society,
and author of a number of historical collections, I
have been furnished with a manuscript copy of
"Reminiscences of Bureau County,
182 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLIN0I8 RIVER.
Patrick Kennedy's journal, of his travels up the
Illinois river, and from which the following items
are gathered :
On the 23, of July, 1773, Kennedy, with a
party of adventurers, left Kaskaskia in a keel-
boat, and ascended the river in search of copper
mines. On arriving at the foot of the rapids
they left their boat and proceeded up the river on
foot, forty-five miles. Here on an island they
found encamped a party of French traders, but
failing to obtain any information of them in re¬
lation to the copper mines, they abandoned the
search and returned to Kaskaskia.
Kennedy's journal speaks of seeing large herds
of buffalo, elk and deer, feeding on the big
meadow on both sides of the river. It also gives
an account of a saline spring and lake, where the
French and Indians were engaged in making salt.
It refers to a cliff of rocks not far from the mouth
of Fox river, where the French obtained their mill¬
stones.
This journal gives a geographical description
of the country—size and names of rivers, and a
general account of the Illinois region, but throws
no light on the history of the French settlements.
It refers to the town and fort at Peoria Lake, but
says nothing of the size of the place, of its inhab¬
itants or general appearance.
MANUSCRIPT OF FATHER BUCHE. 183
This old manuscript is now in the hands of
Hypolite Pilette, who lives on the American
Bottom, between Cahokia and Prairie du Rocher.
It consists of twenty-three pages, closely written,
on large sheets, and from age the paper is yellow
and ink faded. This manuscript is in the French
language, dated La Yille de Maillet (now Peoria),
A. D. 1770, and was written by Jacques Buche, a
Catholic priest.
The writer speaks only of tilings that came
under his own observation, and relates many
remarkable incidents which are worth preserv-
ino;. Some of these statements differ from the
traditions of others, but nevertheless are not
improbable, as they carry with them an air of
truth.
Father Buche's manuscript forms a connecting
link of history between the time of La Salle and
the destruction of Peoria, and from its pages
many of the incidents narrated in this book have
been taken. It speaks of the destruction of La
Yantum, and the perishing of the remnant of the
Illinois Indians on Starved Rock.
It also gives an account of digging for gold
within the stockades of Fort St. Louis, the pit-
holes of which are now plain to be seen.
Father Buche speaks of visiting an Indian village,
fifteen leagues north of Peoria, where he remained
184 FEENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
many day, teaching the people the ways of Christ¬
ianity. The inhabitants of this village, said he,
were possessed of the devil, indulging in vile
practices and idolatrous worship. The chiefs had
many wives, and put them to death if they proved
barren. At their religious feast, which took place
once a year, an infant of some noted chief was
burned on the altar as a sacrifice to the great
Manito. This was done in order that the band
might be successful in war, hunting and fishing,
and also to protect them from the power of the
evil one.
Father Buche said he preached many times to
these benighted people, and the chiefs and
many warriors were converted to Christianity.
In one day he baptized about fifty persons, whose
names were enrolled in the church book, and their
souls saved from perdition.
THE GREAT BUFFALO HUNT.
In Father Buche's manuscript, is an account of
a great buffalo hunt, which took place on the
prairie west of the Iliinois river. He says that
he accompanied thirty-eight of his countrymen
and about three hundred Indians on a buffalo
hunt, when they killed so many that their hides
alone were taken, and their carcasses left on the
THE GREAT BUFFALO HUNT.
185
prairie, food for wolves. A few leagues west of
the great bend in the Illinois river, they discov¬
ered a herd oí many thousand buffalo feeding on
a small prairie, partly surrounded by thick tim¬
ber. It being about, sundown, the hunters en¬
camped for the night in a grove near by, with the
intention of attacking the herd on the following
morning. Next morning before it was light, the
Indians, divested of clothing, mounted on ponies
and armed with guns, bows and arrows, spears,
&c., were anxiously awaiting the command of
their chief to commence the sport. The Indians
formed a circle around the herd, secreting them¬
selves in the timber, while the French completed
a line across the prairie. The buffalo were lying
thick over the prairie, chewing their cud, uncon¬
scious of approaching danger. At a given signal
from the chief, the lines closed in all sides, but as
soon as the animals got wind of the approaching
enemy, arose to their feet and fled in great con¬
fusion. But on approaching the line the Indians
tired on them, at the same time yelling at the top
of their voice. The frightened creatures turned
and fled in the opposite direction, where they were
met by the French hunters and foiled in a like
manner. Thus they continued to run back and
forth from one side of the ring to the other, while
the slaughter went on.
186 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
As the buffalo approached the line, the Indians
would pierce their hearts with spears, or bring
them down with arrows or rifle balls. The line
continued to close in, and the frightened buffalo,
snorting and with wild flashing eyes, would charge
the guards, first on one side, then on the other,
but met the missiles of death everywhere.
After surging back and forth in wild confusion,
the buffalo broke through the line, bearing down
the guards, jumping over the prostrated ponies
and their riders, and thus made their escape.
Father Buche says in his manuscript : " By the
wild surging herd my pony was knocked down,
and I lay prostrated by its side, while the fright¬
ened buffalo, with loud snorting and wild flashing
eyes, in their flight jumped over me ; but through
the protection of the Holy Virgin I was saved
from instant death."
CHAPTER XVI.
JEAN BAPTISTE AND FATHER BONNER.
In the year 1790 there lived near Lexington,
Kentucky, a young slave named Jean Baptiste,
who was brought by his master from Virginia
into that new country. Baptiste associated much
with the Indians, learned their language, and be¬
came fascinated with their free, independent mode
of living. His proud spirit could not be subdued
by the whip of his master; therefore he severed
the bond which made him a slave, and taking the
north star for a guide, he soon became a free man.
Armed with his master's rifle and a large hunting
knife, he traveled northward about three hundred
miles, through a wilderness country. On reach¬
ing Des Plaines river he found refuge in an
Indian village, married a squaw and raised a
family of children. One of his grandsons is now
living in a hewn log house on the bank of Cahokia
creek, in St Clair county, from which I obtained the
narrative relating to his distinguished grandsire.
188 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
According to the statement of Sau-ga-nash (Billy
Caldwell), the first white man that settled at Chi¬
cago was a negro. This negro was no other than
Jean Baptiste, above referred to, whose name is
now associated with the early history of the west¬
ern metropolis. He left the Indian village on
Des Plains river soon after lie came to the coun¬
try, and built a cabin near the mouth of Chicago
river, immediately north of Rush street bridge.
Here he cultivated a small piece of ground, and
spent much of his time in hunting and fishing,
as well as concocting schemes to make himself a
chief among the Indians.
Baptiste told the Indians that he had been a
great chief among the whites at the south, and he
expected to become one among them also. Pos¬
sessing much shrewdness and a good address, this
cunning negro tried various means to gain the
confidence of the Indians, so that he might be
' O
proclaimed a chief among them, but all his
plans failed. On account of the abundance of
fish here at the mouth of the river, and the cool
lake breeze in the summer made it à good place
for a village, and he persuaded his Indian friends
to come thither and build. He also told them that
some day there would be a big town at the mouth
of Chicago river, and if they occupied the land
they could sell it to the whites at a good price.
JEAN BAPTISTE AND FATHER BONNER. 189
His object was to build a town here on the lake
shore, of which he would be the founder, and by
that means become a chief. A few Indians built
lodges on the north side of the river, in accord¬
ance with Baptiste's wishes, but the scattering
trees afforded the village but little protection from
winter storms, and the cold wind from the lake
discouraged them, consequently they abandoned
the lake and returned to their old village on the
Des Plains.
At that time, Father Bonner, a French Jesuit
priest, was living among the Indians, and for
many years had been preaching to them. Bap¬
tise, being aware of the priest's influence among
the Indians, thought he might use it to his own
advantage, therefore he sought his friendship, and
gained his confidence. He also joined the church,
became a zealous Catholic, attending all meetings,
making long and fervent prayers. Father Bon¬
ner thought only of making Baptiste an instru¬
ment in his hands to promote the cause of
Christianity, while the unscrupulous negro ex¬
pected to use the priest in advancing his claims
to the chieftainship, therefore the two became
intimate friends and labored for each other's
interest.
Father Bonner notified all the Indians who
were communicants of his church, to meet him
190 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
on St. Jerome's day at the place on Chicago river
consecrated by Father Marquette, for the pur¬
pose of offering up prayers to Christ and the
Holy Virgin, but his real object was to have
Baptiste proclaimed head chief of the band. On
the day appointed a large number of Indians col¬
lected at the place designated, in accordance with
the priest's request, when the object of the meet¬
ing was explained to them. On the mound,
which had long been hallowed by the Indians as
the spot where Marquette built an altar, a wooden
cross was erected for the occasion. Father Bon¬
ner, standing by the side of this cross, preached
to the Indians, and in conclusion, said that he
had a matter of great importance to lay before
them. He told them that the Holy Virgin had
visited him in a dream, and impressed upon his
mind that the advancement of Christianity re¬
quired that Baptiste, by divine authority, should
be proclaimed head chief of the band. Baptiste
now came forward and knelt by the side of the
cross, when the priest anointed him chief in the
same manner that Samuel annointed Saul, king
of Israel. After pouring bears oil on Baptiste's
wooly head, he exclaimed in a loud voice, " By
the power and authority of the Holy Catholic
Church, I pronounce this man head chief of this
band." When the ceremony was completed, the
PIBBRE DB BBüBO*
191
priest offered up prayer in behalf of the newly
appointed chief, calling on the Virgin to give him
grace and wisdom in order that he might be a
just and wise ruler of his people.
The Indians refused to accept Baptiste as their
head chief, notwithstanding he had been appointed
by high authority, and the would-be ruler re¬
turned to his cabin with a sorrowful heart. Fail¬
ing to gain power over the Indians, Baptiste
became disgusted with the life of a savage, aban¬
doned his cabin and went to Peoria, where he
ended his days some years afterwards.
The cabin which Baptiste built was afterwards
occupied by a French trader named Le Mai, who
sold it to John Kinzie in 1804, about the time
Fort Dearborn was built.
Father Bonner was loved and honored by the
Indians, and he remained with them until his
death, which occurred one year before Fort Dear¬
born was built. He was not only a spiritual
father, but said to be a natural one, as a number
of half-breeds, known to the early settlers of
Chicago, claimed to be his descendants.
PIERRE DE BEURO.
About the year 1776, a young French Creole of
Cahokia, by the name of Pierre De Beuro, came
L
192 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIFER.
to Peoria, and for a few years was employed as a
clerk in a trading house. De Beuro being of an
enterprising turn of mind, and well acquainted
with the Indian language, left Peoria in search
of his fortune. Having made the acquaintance
of a number of chiefs while clerking at Peoria,
he concluded to visit their villages, which were
located at different points on or near the river.
He stopped some time at Wappa, on Bureau
creek, then at a village on Lake De Pue, and
afterwards went to a large town near the mouth
of Fox river. Here he married a squaw, the
daughter of a noted chief, and made preparations
to engage in the fur trade.
De Beuro visited Peoria to procure necessary
tools for building a house, and accompanied by a
half-breed he ascended the river as far as the
mouth of Bureau creek, where he established a
trading post.
Below the mouth of Bureau creek is an eleva¬
ted piece of land, covered with timber, and known
as Hickory Ridge. This place became a noted
land mark with the French and Indians, and was
the scene of a number of traditionary incidents.
It also became a place of note in the early settle¬
ment of the country, and during high water was
the landing for the Hennepin ferry-boat. Here
on this ridge, elevated above the floods of the
PIERRE DE BEURO.
193
river, De Beuro, assisted by a number of Indians,
built a double log cabin, and laid the foundation
of a large fur trade. Being located in the heart
of the Indian country, the first year he collected
two canoe loads of furs and buffalo skins, which
he shipped to Cahokia, and paid for them on his
return with goods received in exchange.
While the traders at Peoria continued to send
their furs to Canada, De Beuro sent his to Caho¬
kia, and there obtained goods for the Indian
market. Antoine Des Champs said every spring
for a number of years, canoes loaded with furs
and buffalo robes, passed Peoria on their way
down the river from this trading house. The
traders at Peoria were unfriendly toward De
Beuro, as he took a large portion of their trade,
and they tried to buy him out, but did not suc¬
ceed. In the spring of 1790, De Beuro, in ac¬
cordance with his former custom, sent two canoes
loaded with furs down the river to Cahokia, in
charge of his clerk and two Indians. The trader
accompanied the canoes down the river about
twenty miles to an Indian village for the purpose
of transacting some business, and from here he
started for home on foot, but never reached it.
Search was made for the missing trader, and some
days afterwards his remains were found a short
distance from the trail, in a thick cluster of un-
194 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
derbrush, partly devoured by wolves. He had
been shot through the body, and from appearances
ran a short distance when he was overtaken by the
assassin and his head split open with a tomahawk.
Report says a trader at Peoria, whose descend¬
ants are now living near East St. Louis, being
angry at De Beuro on account of taking away
much of his trade, employed a half-breed to assas¬
sinate him, and thereby break up the rival trading
post.
When the clerk found that the trader was dead,
he appropriated the proceeds of the furs to his
own account, and De Beuro's squaw put the goods
at the trading house into canoes, and took them
to her people who lived at a village near the
mouth of Fox river. Thus the trading post was
broken up, after being in operation fourteen
years. The buildings vacated went to decay, but
from this trader Bureau creek derived its name.
During the war of 1812, when the troops under
General Howard, at Peoria, were preparing to
ascend the river in keel boats in search of the
enemy, the Indians tore down the cabins built
by De Beuro, and with the iogs erected a.breast¬
work on the river bank so they could tire on the
boats. But on the arrival of the boats, and find¬
ing their decks protected by heavy planking, witli
port holes for cannon, the Indians were stricken
CAPTAIN LEVERING^ VISIT TO PEORIA. 195
with panic, and fled from their breastworks with¬
out firing a gun or letting their presence be
known to the troops.
Gerden S. Hubbard says, when he came to the
country in 1818, this breastwork was still stand¬
ing, and its relics were plain to be seen in the
early settlement of the country.*
CAPTAIN LEVERING's VISIT TO PEORIA.
In the summer _of 1809, soon after Ninian
Edwards was appointed Governor of Illinois
territory, trouble existed between the whites and
Indians, and a few persons were killed by the
latter. The Indians on the Illinois river appear¬
ed shy and unfriendly, and rumors were in circu¬
lation that they meditated an attack upon the
frontier settlements. These reports, and their
unfriendly demonstrations, caused Governor
Edwards to send Captain Levering, a native of
Kaskaskia, with a small company of volunteers
in a keel boat to Peoria, in order to ascertain the
intention of the Indians.
Captain Levering and all his company were
French Creoles, who understood the Indian
* A few years ago David Miller cut the timber off Hickory
Ridge and put the land under cultivation. Where De Beuro's
trading house stood many relics of civilization, such as pieces
of pottery, glassware, <fcc., were plowed up.
196 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
language and customs, and with whom friendly
relation existed, even in time of war.
On arriving at Peoria the volunteers were
cordially received both French and Indians,
who prepared for them a great feast and a ball
in the evening. Some of the guests became fas¬
cinated with the Indian maidens, two of whom
took wives home with them.
From Peoria parties were sent to different
Indian villages for the purpose of delivering pres¬
ents, and have a talk with the chiefs. One of the
parties visited the Kickapoo village on Sugar
creek, about forty miles southeast of Peoria, and
the Indians here expressed a friendly feeling
towards Americans.
Joseph Trotier, a native of Cahokia, accom¬
panied by two half-breeds, ascended the river in
a canoe as far as the great bend, stopping at
Crows, Gomo and Black Partridge's villages, and
trom the chiefs and warriors received assurance
of peace and friendship. They also visited the
village of "Wappa, on Bureau creek, and Comas
the head chief sent Governor Edwards as a token
of friendship, a pair of large elk horns and a
panther skin, all of which he had taken with his
own hands.
Captain Levering and company returned to
Kaskaskia, carrying with them many presents
THE GOVERNOR AND CHIEFS IN COUNCIL. 197
from the chiefs to Governor Edwards, and also
their pledges of friendship.
For nearly two years after Captain Levering's
visit to the Indian country, the frontier settle¬
ments were not molested, but in the fall of 1811,
a number of persons were killed by the Indians
in Madison and St. Clair counties. At these
depredations people on the frontier settlements
became greatly alarmed ; some fled from the
country, while others built temporary forts to
shield themselves from the tomahawks and scalp¬
ing knives of the savages. Fort Russell was
built near the present site of Edwardsville, and
cannon brought from old Fort Charters and
mounted on its wooden ramparts.
GOVERNOR EDWARDS MEETING THE POTTAWATO¬
MIE CHIEFS.
During the winter of 1811-12, the Indians at
the different villages along the river, heard that
preparations were being made by Governor Ed¬
wards to send an army against them in the spring.
On hearing of this intended invasion by the
troops, they were much alarmed, and the chiefs
and principal warriors met in council at Senach-
wine's village, to agree pn plans for the future,
but no definite conclusion was arrived at. Many
198 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
of the chiefs went to Peoria to consult with their
friends, the French, and to procure their assistance
in averting the evil which threatened them.
Captain J. B. Maillet consented to go to Kaskas-
kia and see Governor Edwards, and pledge to
him their intentions of peace and friendship. On
arriving at the seat of government the Governor
proposed to meet the chiefs in council at Cahokia,
in the latter part of April, and there settle all
misunderstandings. At the time appointed a
large delegation ol chiefs, among whom were
Black Partridge, Senachwine and Gomo, in their
canoes arrived at Cahokia.
The council was held in a little grove of timber
on the bank of Cahokia creek, above the town
and was attended by a large collection of people,
some of whom are still living, and to them I am
indebted for some facts relating to it.*
Black Partridge made a speech in the council,
and while holding aloft a silver medal which he
wore suspended from his neck, said : " This token
* While at Cahokia a short time ago, the place of holding this
council was pointed out to me by an old man, who in his boy¬
hood days, sixty-two years before, attended it. He described
Black Partridge, Senachwine, and other chiefs, who it appears
made a lasting impression upon his then youthful mind. In
this little grove where the council was held, is a large burr oak
tree, which looks as though it might have stood here l'or many
centuries. At the root of this tree, said the old man, Pontiac
(or the Indian who passed for sufch) was sitting, when a warrior
came up behind him and split his head open with a tomahawk •
THE GOVERNOR AND CHIEFS IN COUNCIL. 199
of friendship was given to me at Greenville by
your great chief (General Wayne). On it you
see the face of our great father at Washington,
and as long as this hangs from my neck I never
will raise my tomahawk against the whites."
Pledges of friendship were made by the chiefs,
and Governor Edwards dismissed them with many
presents, when they returned to their homes.
For several months after this council harmony
between the Indians and frontier settlements was
undisturbed, and people passed back and forth to
Lake Michigan, as in former days.
About the first of August two emisaries from
Tecumseh arrived on the Illinois river informing
the Indians that war existed between the United
States and Great Britain, and tried to. induce
them to take part with the latter. A council was
called at Gomo's village, at which the chiefs of
the different bands opposed taking part in the
war. On the following day about one hundred
and fifty young warriors belonging to different
villages, left for Chicago, to join other bands in
an attack on Fort Dearborn. Black Partridge
on learning this fact, mounted his pony and fol¬
lowed these young bloods to dissuade them from
their purpose, but failed in his mission, and
a few days after their arrival at Chicago, the fort
was abandoned and troops massacred.
CHAPTER XVII.
TROOPS MARCHING AGAIN8T THE INDIAN8.
In the fall of 1312, an army of two thousand
mounted riflemen from Kentucky, under the com¬
mand of General Hopkins, arrived at Fort Har¬
rison on the Wabash. These troops were ordered
by the commander-in-chief of the western army
to march against the Indians on the Illinois river,
as it was believed that many of them participated
in the Chicago massacre, which liad taken place
a few months before.
On the 14th of October this grand army, the
largest that had ever been so far west, entered
Illinois in what is now Edgar county, and shaped
their course northwest across the prairies. On
the fourth day out the prairie was discovered on
fire, and the soldiers became alarmed, fearing that
they would be burned up in the flames. Being
stricken with a panic they mutinied — all their
patriotism vanished — and they resolved to go no
further through a country enveloped in fire and
TROOPS MAROHING AGAINST THE INDIANS. 201
smoke. While this great army was in confusion,
soldiers remonstrating with the officers, it is said
one Major Prunk rode up to General Hopkins
and ordered him to turn back. The general
finding all military law at an end, abandoned the
expedition, and marched his »army back to the
Wabash.
About this time Governor Edwards, with three
hundred mounted rangers, under the command
of Colonel Russell, marched northward from Fort
Russell, near the present site of Ed wards ville, for
the purpose of operating with Hopkins' army
against the Indians. But being unable to find
the army under Hopkins, they continued on
their way toward the Indian country. Governor
Edwards' rangers being mounted on good horses,
without baggage- except what each man carried
in his saddle bags, enabled them to march direct
for Peoria Lake, and on the fourth day reached
Black Partridge's village. The Indians having
no warning of the approaching enemy, were un¬
prepared to make a defense. Most of the
warriors being off on a hunt, the squaws and
pappooses fell an easy prey to the rangers. The
Indians, panic-stricken, fled from their village,
leaving in their flight ponies, camp equipage and
all other valuables. A few of the warriors were
wounded in the assault, so they could not make
202 FBENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
their escape, and therefore became victims of the
assailants. These wounded warriors with a num¬
ber of pappooses and a few persons decrepid by
age, were killed by the rangers, who afterwards
said in justification of this barbarous act that
they did not leave home to take prisoners.
The village with all its contents was destroyed
by fire; even the corn in the caches was taken
out and burned, and many of the ponies were
taken off as trophies of war.
As soon as the rangers had completed their
work of destruction, they started back on a
forced march for the settlement, as they were
now in the midst of the Indian country, where a
thousand or more warriors could be raised in a
dav's time.*
%/
BLACK PARTRIDGE.
This chief, whose Indian name was Mucketey-
pokee, lived at his village on the bank of Illinois
river, a short distance above the head of Peoria
Lake. Here he lived, and here he died, and in
the early settlement of the country, his grave
11* There are conflicting accounts relating to the destruction oí
Black Partridge's village, some of which contradict these bar¬
barous acts of the soldiers. But I obtained my information
while in conversation with General Whitesides, who was pres¬
ent and participated in this aflair. General Whitesides (then
a young man,) belonged to Captain Judy's company of spies.
BLACK PARTRIDGE. 203
was pointed to strangers. Persons are now liv¬
ing who knew this chief well, and from whom I
obtained a description of his person, and many
incidents relating to his life and character.
Black Partridge was tall and slim, with a high
forehead, a large nose, a sharp visage and pierc¬
ing black eyes. His appearance was noble, his
form erect, and his figure commanding. The
long coarse hair, once as black as a raven, but of
latter years mixed with gray, hung in matted
clusters over his shoulders. On his breast he
wore a silver medal, on which was the medallion
head oí Geueral Washington, and in his nose
and ears were large gold rings.
In the border wars of Ohio, Black Partridge
took a part and with a few of his braves fought
against the whites. He was present and signed
the treaty of Greenville, in the year 1795, and
received from the hand of General Wayne, the
medal above referred to. This medal as an
insignia of peace and friendship, was carried about
his person for seventeen years, and surrendered it
to Captain Heald, August 15, 1812.
and had a good opportunity of observing what transpired. He
described some acts of the soldiers, which for the sake of hu¬
manity ought not to be recorded in history, and therefore will
bear no part in this narrative.
Having already published some Items in relation to the de¬
struction of Black Partridge's village, it becomes unnecessary
to repeat them here.
204 FRENCH AND INDIAN8 OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
On the morning of the Chicago massacre,
Black Partridge entered the quarters of Captain
Heald, the officer in command of íort. Dearborn,
and said to liirn, "I have come to deliver up to
you this medal which I have long worn as a token
of friendship, and it is with a sorrowful heart I
now part with it. But our young braves are
resolved on imbuing their hands in human blood;
I cannot restrain them, and I will not wear an
emblem of friendship while I am compelled to
act as an enemy."
In Mrs. Kinzie's account of the Chicago mas¬
sacre is related an incident of Black Partridge
saving the life of Mrs. Helm, wife of Lieutenant
Helm, second officer in command at Fort Dear¬
born. This incident almost rivals romance, but
its truth is confirmed by a person still living—
Mrs. Benson—who was present, and from whom
I partly obtained the following narrative.
On the morning of the 15th of August, 1812,
the sun rose with unusual splendor, and its golden
rays were reflected from the smooth water of Lake
Michigan, but many of the inmates of Fort Dear¬
born who then looked upon it, did not live to see
it set beneath the western horizon.
At nine o'clock the troops left the fort in mili¬
tary array, with martial music, and flags flying.
Captain Wells, having his face blacked after the
BLACK PARTRIDGE.
205
manner of Indians, and with his Miami warriors
mounted on horses, led the van. The troops on
foot followed, and next to them were the baggage
wagons containing the sick, with the women and
children, while the Pottawatomie warriors five
hundred in number, brought up the rear. This
caravan followed the road along the beach of the
lake for about a mile and a half, to a range of
sand knolls.* Here the Pottawatomies left the
road, and took to the prairie, when Captain
Wells, with his horse on a gallop, rode back and
told the troops to form for battle, as the Potta¬
watomies were about to attack them. Soon the
fight commenced, and the soldiers defended
themselves manfully, selling their lives as dearly
as possible, but many fell on every hand by an
overpowering enemy. Mrs. Helm, wife of Lieu¬
tenant Helm, then but seventeen years of age,
having been thrown from her horse at the com-
menement of the fight, stood spell bound, look¬
ing on the scene of blood and carnage around
her. Her father and husband were engaged in
the fearful strife, and she expected every moment
to see them fall by the murderous savages. Soon
a warrior with an uplifted tomahawk approached
♦This range of sand knolls was where Fourteenth street
strikes the lake, and were a kind of a land mark thirty years
ago, but have since been graded down in making the street.
206 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
her, but dodging to one side the blow intended
for her head took effect in the shoulder, produc¬
ing a ghastly wound. She caught the savage
around the neck, and attempted to get possession
of his scalping knife which hung in a scabbard
on his breast, but the warrior threw her to one
side and was about to use his tomahawk on her
head, when she was caught in the arms of another
Indian who bore her off, struggling, into the lake.
Here she was plunged under the water, but her
head was frequently raised, so she soon discovered
that the Indian did not intend to drown her. On
looking into the face of her captor, she recognized
Black Partridge, the white man's friend, notwith¬
standing he was disguised by paint. When the
fight was over her protector conveyed his charge
to the Indian camp, and delivered her over to a
friendly squaw who dressed her wounds.*
About two months after the events above nar¬
rated, Black Partridge learned that Lieutenant
Helm, the husband of the woman whose life he
had saved, was still a prisoner among the Indians
at a village on the Kankakee river. On receiv¬
ing this intelligence he boarded a canoe and went
to Peoria to consult with his friends in relation
* This Indian encampment was on a small stream or slough,
which ran along the line of State street, and entered the river
near Clark street bridge. This camp,according to the statement
of Billy Caldwell,was near where Jackson street crosses State.
BLACK PARTRIDGE.
207
to the Lieutenant's ransom. Captain J. B. Mail-
let, Antoine Des Champs and Thomas Forsyth,
were consulted, and it was agreed by them that
Black Partridge should go immediately to the
Indian village and purchase the release of Lieu¬
tenant Helm. Presents were furnished by the
three traders as a ransom for the prisoner, with a
written order on General Clark, Indian agent at
St. Louis for an additional one hundred dollars on
his arrival there.
Black Partridge being provided with presents,
and accompanied by a half-breed from Peoria,
mounted their ponies and started on their mission
of mercy. On arriving at the Indian village,
they found Lieutenant Helm closely guarded by
his captors, and suffering from a wound which he
received at the massacre. When the old chief
entered the lodge, Lieutenant Helm threw his
arms around his neck and cried like a child. He
knew that Black Partridge had rescued his wife,
and saved the life of his father-in-law (John Kin-
zie) with his family, and in him he saw a prospect
of his own rescue.*
• The wife of Lieutenant Helm was a step-daughter of John
Kinzie, an Indian trader, who came to Chicago in 1804. Kinzie
was a half-brother of Thomas Forsyth, of Peoria, and father-in-
law of Mrs. Kinzie, who published a book on the early history
of Chicago.
The wife of Captain Heald was a sistbr of Captain Wells ; the
latter was raised among the Indians, adopted their dress, cus¬
toms and language, and lost his life at the Chicago massacre.
M
208 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Black Partridge called the chiefs and warriors
together and laid the presents before them, say¬
ing all these articles should be theirs, with an
additional one hundred dollars in silver if they
would send their prisoner to General Clark at St.
Louis. After a long parley "the Indians rejected
the proposition, contending that the ransom of¬
fered was not sufficient.
A short time before Captain Heald had been a
prisoner at this village, and the Indians sent him
to St. Joseph in charge of three warriors, to be
liberated, but the pay received in exchange for him
was so small that the warriors were sent back to
reclaim their prisoner, but Captain Heald having
been sent to Detroit they failed to get him.
The Indians refused to release Lieutenant Helm
unless the ransom was increased, so Black Part¬
ridge offered them his pony, riñe, and a large gold
ring which he wore in his nose. This proposition
was accepted, and Lieutenant Helm, with the half-
breed, accompanied by a petty chief, all mounted
on ponies, started the next day for- St. Louis.
It was thought best to take the prisoner to St
Louis to be set at liberty, as the Indians might
think if brought to Peoria that the French were
in league with the Americans, and thereby create
a feeling against them.
Black Partridge accompanied Lieutenant Helm
INDIANS ATTACKING THE SETTLEMENTS. 209
and his conductors one day's journey on their
way, and then started across the country for his
village on the Illinois river.
It was late at night, very dark, and the rain
pouring down in torrents, as the old chief, on foot
and alone, plodded his way through the thick
river timber toward his home, where he expected
to be warmly greeted by his family and friends,
but was doomed to disappointment. The village
had disappeared—not a lodge nor a human being
could be found—nothing remained on its site but
the charred poles of which the lodges were con¬
structed. A pack of hungry wolves which had
been feeding on dead bodies, ran away at his
approach, and their howling during the night
added gloom and terror to the surrounding scene.
Black Partridge drew his blanket around him,
and with a sorrowful heart seated himself on the
ground to await the approach of day. Next
morning he found among the dead his favorite
daughter, with her infant son clasped in her arms,
both stiff in death. On the site of the village,
and in the swamp near by, he found the remains
of many of his friends, among whom was an old
squaw of ninety winters.
INDIANS ATTACKING THE SETTLEMENTS.
After the destruction of Black Partridge's vil-
210 FEENOÄ AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
läge, his band left the Illinois river, some of
whom found refuge on Bureau creek and others
on Green river, where they remained until the
following summer. A party of warriors, headed
by Black Partridge, returned to the village some
days after it was destroyed, for the purpose of
burying the dead, and found their remains partly
devoured by wolves. The warriors engaged in a
winter hunt, according to their custom, but Black
Partridge traveled over the country, visiting dif¬
ferent villages, and holding council with their
chiefs in order to enlist them in his cause. He
was now old—his head whitened by the snows of
seventy winters—still his figure was erect and his
step firm. Age had not dimmed the fire of his
eyes, nor destroyed the ambition of his youth.
He had long been a friend to the whites, and had
done everything in his power to prevent the mas¬
sacre at Chicago. He had saved the life of Mrs.
Helm, at the risk of his own, and had collected
around him a few faithful friends to guard the
house of John Kinzie, and thereby rescued his
family as well as other prisoners from massacre.
He had traveled a long way to the Kankakee
village, and given his pony, rifle and ring to ran¬
som Lieutenant Helm, and while tired and
hungry he returned to find his home desolated,
and his friends murdered or driven away. Not-
INDIANS ATTACKING THE SETTLEMENTS. 211
withstanding Black Partridge had done all this,
the whites made war against him, burned his
town, destroyed his corn, carried off his ponies,
and killed about thirty of his people, among whom
were some of his kinsmen, and he now lived only
for revenge.
On the following summer Black Partridge,
with about three hundred warriors mounted on
ponies, left for the frontier settlements in the
southern part of the State. They went within
thirty miles of the settlement, and secreted them¬
selves in the thick timber of Shoal creek, now in
Bond county. From here they sent out small
war parties to attack the settlers and kill de¬
fenseless women and children. The people were
greatly alarmed at these depredations ; many fled
from their homes and sought safety at Cahokia
and Kaskaskia ; others built temporary forts to
shield themselves from the tomahawk and scalp¬
ing knives of these ruthless savages. It is said a
halt-breed, dressed as a white man, acted as a spy,
visiting ¡different settlements and informied the
Indians of the most exposed points. Through
this spy the Indians learned that an expedition
was about to be sent against their villages on the
Illinois river, so they broke up their camp and
left for their homes.
CHAPTER XVIII.
THE FRENCH AT PEORIA REGARDED AS ENEMIES.
While the inhabitants of Peoria were quietly
pursuing their daily avocation of farming, hunt¬
ing and trading with the Indians, being as they
supposed at peace with all the world, a plot was
laid for their destruction. Being located in the
midst of a wilderness country, two hundred miles
from the nearest American settlement, and hav¬
ing but little intercourse with the civilized world,
they would not have known that war between
the United States and Great Britain existed if
they had not learned the fact from the neighbor¬
ing Indians.
Although the French at Peoria had lived within
the jurisdiction of the United States government
for thirty-four years, they had never taken the
oath of allegiance, acknowledged its power, nor
paid tax to its support. They were a foreign
people, speaking a different language, with habits
and customs peculiar to themselves, and all their
THE FRENCH REGARDED A8 ENEMIES. 213
trade and intercourse was with the French citizens
of Canada.
The residents of Peoria had taken no part in
the war, as it was afterwards proven, but never¬
theless they were charged with assisting the
Indians by supplying them with arms. Report
said that they were bringing munitions of war
from Canada, and selling them to the Indians to
enable these savages to make raids on the frontier
settlements. It was also alleged that they had
sent five horses over to the Sac village, near Rock
Island, to pack lead for the Indians, and this lead
was paid for in goods furnished by Peoria mer¬
chants. But the most damaging of all the evil
reports in circulation, and which caused the
greatest feeling of resentment among the people,
was that of cattle stealing. It being reported
and believed by people everywhere that Captain
John Baptiste Maillet, the chief military man of
Peoria, with a number of followers had been
stealing cattle from the Wood river settlement, in
Madison county, to feed the Indian army then
collected at Gomo's village. These reports were
afterwards shown to be false, and instead of Cap¬
tain Maillet being a cattle thief, as reported, he
was rewarded by an act of Congress for his loy¬
alty to the United States government
The evil reports in circulation about the French
214 FBENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVEB.
at Peoria were generally believed, and Governor
Edwards, supposing they were true, called for
volunteers in order to send an armed force against
them. About two hundred men responded to
the call, who were placed under the command oí
Captain Craig, and rendezvoused at Shawnee-
town. Four keel-boats were prepared, with rifle
ball proof planking, mounted with cannon, and
filled with armed soldiers. These boats left
Shawneetown early in October, and arrived at
Peoria on the 5th of November. The inhabitants
of Peoria were much surprised to see four armed
boats land at their wharf, as no large craft had
ever reached that place before.
The following account of the arrival of these
boats, and the burning of Peoria, are principally
taken from the statements of Antoine LeClair
and Hypolite Pilette, who were present, the
latter being a boy at the time. LeClair was a
half-breed, and acquired much celebrity in after
life as the proprietor of Davenport, Iowa. Pilette
is now living on the American Bottom, near
Prairie de Rocher, and to whom previous refer¬
ence has been made.
BUENING OF PEOBIA.
On Sunday morning, November 5th, 1812, as
the people of Peoria were assembled at church,
BURNING OF PEORIA.
215
engaged in saying mass, they were startled by the
report of a cannon. The congregation, partly
through fright and partly by curiosity, ran out of
the church, when they discovered four armed
boats in the lake under full sail. On coming op¬
posite the town, the boats rounded to and landed
at the wharf. Father Racine came down from
the pulpit, and in his long black robe, with his
bald head uncovered, started for the landing, fol¬
lowed by all his congregation, men, women and
children. Here they were met by Captain Craig
and some of his men, who had landed from the
boats. Thomas Forsyth, who spoke English, in¬
quired of the commanding officer, Captain Craig,
the object of his mission, but he evaded answer¬
ing the question, and in return demanded of the
citizens a supply of meat and vegetables for his
men, which were furnished them.
The soldiers landed from the boats and scattered
through the town in search of plunder, and com¬
mitted many depredations on the people. They
broke open the store of Felix Fon tain, in which
Antoine LeClair was a clerk, and took therefrom
two casks of wine, and drank their contents.
Many of the soldiers got drunk, forced their way
into dwellings, insulting women, carrying off
eatables, blankets, and everything which they
took a fancy to. It was long after dark before
216 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Captain Craig succeeded in getting his drunken
disorderly crew on board, when the boats were
pushed off from shore to prevent further depre¬
dations on the citizens. The boats lay at anchor
off in the lake in order to prevent the soldiers
from again visiting the town, as well as a precau¬
tion against an attack from the Indians.
During the night a high wind arose, and to es¬
cape the waves in the lake the boats raised their
anchors and dropped down into the channel of
the river, about one-half mile below the town,
where they remained until morning. About
daylight, eight or ten guns were fired in quick
succession in the thick river timber close to the
boats. Captain Craig thinking that they were
attacked by Indians, ordered the boats to push
out into the channel of the river, while the can¬
nons were brought to bear and several shots fired
into the timber in order to dislodge the supposed
Indians.
About daybreak on the morning of the sup¬
posed attack on the boats, a party of French
at the village, consisting of eight or ten in num¬
ber, went out in the river timber to shoot some
beeves. The cattle being mixed with buffalo
would live during the winter without feeding and
became partly wild, so they were frequently
hunted down in the woods the same as deer.
BURNING OF PEORIA.
217
This party of hunters had attacked the herd in
their lair, near where the boats of Captain Craig
were at anchor, shot three beeves, and had com¬
menced skinning them when the timber was
riddled with cannon shot. The hunters became
frightened, left their beeves undressed, and in
great haste returned to town without having the
slightest idea from what cause these hostile de¬
monstrations were made by the troops.
A council of war was held among the officers,
all of whom were in favor of burning the town,
and taking the men prisoners of war, as they had
without doubt, pointed out the location of the
boats to the Indians, and therefore were accessory
to the attack. The boats were run up to the
town, when Captain Craig, with an armed force
visited each house and took all the heads of fam¬
ilies prisoners. Some of the men were still in
bed, and not allowed time to dress, but hur¬
ried off to the boats with their clothing in their
hands. A torch was applied to every house, and
these with their contents were burned.
Women and children, with wild screams es¬
caped from the burning buildings, and like a herd
of frightened deer collected on a vacant lot back
of the town. The church, which contained a
golden image and a crucifix, with other valuable
religious emblems, a present from the Bishop of
218 FBENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Quebee, was burned. The wind-mill, which
stood on the bank of the lake and filled with
grain and flour belonging to the citizens, was
burned, as well as stables, stock-yards, corn-cribs,
&c.
Felix Fontain, Michael LaCroix, Antoine Des
Champs and Thomas Forsyth, all of whom were
traders, with their stores filled with goods, which
was consumed by the flames. An old man named
Benit, formerly a trader, who had saved a large
amount of gold by the toil of half a century,
which he had laid away for old age. This gold
was secreted in his dwelling, but finding it on fire
he rushed in to save his treasure, and perished in
the flames, and his bones were found among the
ashes on the following spring by a party of hunt¬
ers who visited Peoria. Mrs. LaCroix, a lady of
refinement and of great personal attraction, who
in after years became the wife of Governor Rey¬
nolds, being alone with four small children when
her house was set on fire, appealed to the soldiers
to save the clothes of herself and little ones, but
her appeal was in vain, and with her children only
she escaped from the burning building.
There is an incident connected with the burn¬
ing of Peoria which to some extent explains the
barbarous conduct of the soldiers, and somewhat
palliates this offense against humanity. About
BURNING Oí PEORIA.
219
two months before Peoria was burned, General
Howard, then stationed at Portage du Sioux, sent
one of his soldiers, a young half-breed named
Snipkins, to Peoria, in order to ascertain if the
French were assisting the Indians in carrying on
a war against the settlements, as had been re¬
ported. This messenger, by courtesy, was called
Howard's express, but in fact was a spy, learning
all he could from the citizens without letting his
business be known. This young scapegrace, in¬
stead of returning to the army and reporting the
true state of affairs, according to orders, became
enamored with a girl and prolonged his stay until
the arrival of Captain Craig. And to escape pun¬
ishment for disobeying orders, he reported to the
troops under Captain Craig that he was detained
by the people of Peoria against his will, being a
prisoner in their hands, which was afterwards
shown to be false. If this messenger had re¬
turned to the army, and reported as he was ordered
to do, Craig's expedition would have been aban¬
doned, and the destruction of Peoria averted.
A short time before Peoria was burned, Thom¬
as Forsyth was appointed a government agent,
but this appointment was kept a secret by the
department at Washington, as it was thought, if
known, it would lessen his influence with the In¬
dians, and probably prejudice his townsmen
220 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
against him. When Forsy th was made a prisoner
he showed his commission under the United
States seal to Captain Craig, but the incredulous
captain pronounced it a forgery.
When the destruction of Peoria was completed^
the boats started down the river on their return
homeward, carrying with them all the men as
prisoners of war. Two miles below the present
site of Alton, in the thick river timber, these
prisoners were set at liberty, without tents, pro¬
visions, or means of returning to their families.
The women and children having been left at
the burned town without food or shelter, were
therefore in a suffering condition, and without
assistance they could not be relieved from their
helpless situation. It was now late in the fall,
the sky overcast with gray clouds, and the cold
November winds howled through the forest trees.
With high winds were squalls of snow, and the
roaring and lashing of waves in the lake caused
mothers to draw their infants closer to their
bosoms to protect them from the inclement
weather. To these destitute helpless beings all
was dark and cheerless; the lamentations of
mothers and cries of children were heard far
away, and touched the heart of a sympathizing
friend, although a savage. While in the midst
of trouble they discovered a lone Indian walking
RURNING OF PEORIA.
221
leisurely along the beach of the lake, and with a
firm step approaching them. He carried a rifle
on his shoulder, a tomahawk and scalping knife
in his belt, and his face was painted in many col¬
ors. Notwithstanding he was disguised by paint,
they recognized in the approaching Indian Gomo,
a friendly chief, who had a village where Chilli-
cothe now stands.
On the approach of Captain Craig's forces, the
inhabitants of Gomo's village fled from their
homes and secreted themselves in a thick grove
of timber a few miles west of the river. But
Gomo, with two of his warriors, remained in the
heavy timber near the lake watching the move
ments of the soldiers, and when the boats departed
down the river they came forth from their hiding
place to assist their friends in distress. Gomo and
his warriors furnished provisions and shelter for
the destitute women and children, and provided
them canoes (those belonging to the French hav¬
ing been destroyed by the soldiers,) to descend
the river. When supplied with an outfit for the
journey, the women with their little one started
down the river, camping each night on its banks,
without tents or shelter from the cold night air.
After many days of hardship and exposure,
drenched by rain and suffering fr.om cold, they
reached Cahokia, where they were provided for
222 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
by their countrymen, and afterwards joined by
their husbands and fathers.
It has been stated that Captain Craig took the
women and children on the boats with the men,
and set them all at liberty on the east bank of the
Mississippi river. But this is incorrect, as the re¬
port applied to a few families only. The family
of Thomas Forsyth, and perhaps one or two oth¬
ers were taken on the boats, but I am informed
by Rene LaCroix and Hy poli te Pilette, who were
present, (being boys at the time,) that the families
to which they belonged, with many others, went
down the river to Cahokia in bark canoes furn¬
ished by the Indian chief Gomo, as previously
stated.
Captain Craig has been greatly villified for
burning Peoria, but it must be recollected that
he acted under the orders of Governor Edwards,
who approved of his conduct, and afterwards ap¬
pointed him to an important office.
It appears Governor Edwards was misled by
false reports, which caused him to make war on
innocent people, and therefore should not be
censured for doing that which he believed, at the
time, to be his duty.
CHAPTER XIX.
DESCENDANTS OF FRENCH SETTLERS AT PEORIA.
The descendants of the French who were born
at Peoria, only three are now living, and they of
course are far advanced in life. I visited these
persons, and listened to an account of their early
recollections of Peoria, as well as the- traditions
of their ancestors. One of these descendants,
Robert Forsyth, lives on a farm in Missouri, six
miles west of St. Louis. He is a son of Thomas
Forsyth, who was a trader at Peoria, and held a
commission of an Indian agent from the govern¬
ment when the town was destroyed. After the
destruction of Peoria, Forsyth was appointed an
agent for the Sacs and Foxes at Rock Island, and
held that position for many years. He was one of
the claimants for the land on which Peoria stands,
and his son Robert, (above referred to,) prosecut¬
ed these claims against the occupants, and realized
a large sum of money out of them.
N
224 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVER.
Rene LaCroix, another of the descendants, lives
in Belleville, and like Forsyth obtained a large
sum of money out of the French claims. His
father, Michael LaCroix, a trader at Peoria, was
on his way to Canada with a pirogue loaded
with furs when the town was burned. While at
Montreal he heard that the Yankees had burned
Peoria and killed all its inhabitants, among whom
were his wife and children. With his heart filled
with revenge, he joined the British army, be¬
came an officer, and participated in many of the
battles of the war. After the war was over, he
learned*that his family were still living, and at
Cahokia, so he came west to join them. On the
following year Mr. LaCroix died, and a young
lawyer of Cahokia, named John Reynolds, after¬
wards Governor of Illinois, married his widow.
Hypolite Pilette is a son of -Louis Pilette, one
of the French land claimants, born at Peoria in
1799, and is now living on the American Bottom.
He claims to be a great grandson of Captain
Richard Pilette, who in the vear 1686 built Le
Fort Des Miamis, on Buffalo Rock, and has now
in his possession the sword, eagle and epaulets
worn by that distinguished personaga
While speaking of the burning of Peoria in
1812 by Captain Craig, he said : " On a cold
November morning, when a boy of thirteen years
MBS. BESSON's NARRATIVE.
225
of age, I was driven from home without coat, hat
or shoes ; my mother sick with the ague, and
with an infant in her arms, was compelled to leave
her bed, protected from the cold winds only by
an Indian blanket, while the house with all its
contents was devoured by the flames. My father
a prisoner, my mother sick, my brothers and sis¬
ters almost naked, without food or shelter, and
not a dwelling of a white man within two hun¬
dred miles. Thus we were turned out of doors
to starve and freeze, but fortunately were res¬
cued by some friendly Indians."
Three days after Peoria was burned, Mrs. Pi-
lette, with her children, were put in a canoe by
the* Indians, and with her family started down
the river. After six days of exposure, suffering
from cold and hunger, they reached Cahokia,
where they were provided for by their country¬
men.
While speaking of the past, Pilette became
much excited, his eyes flashed with anger, his
voice was raised to a high key, and in broken
English he denounced the barbarous acts of Cap¬
tain Craig, and from that time to the present, said
he " I hate Yankees."
MRS. BESSON's NARRATIVE.
While in East St. Louis, I heard of an old
226 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
lady by the name of Mrs. Besson, who was one
of the captives at the Chicago massacre, and is
probably the only one now living. I called on
this lady and listened to her narrative relating to
this affair, which to me was very interesting.
She said her early recollections were associated
with Chicago river, Lake Michigan, and Fort
Dearborn, by the side of which she spent many
of her childhood days, and gathered flowers on
the wild prairie, now covered by the great metro¬
polis of the west. Her maiden name was Mary
Lee, daughter of Charles Lee, who with his fam¬
ily came to Fort Dearborn soon after it was built.
Their dwelling stood on the beach of the lake
near the fort, and back of it was a small garden
enclosed by a rail fence. For a number of years
her father, Mr. Lee, was engaged in agricultural
pursuits, selling the products of his farm to the
garrison at high rates.
Mr. Lee made a large farm at a grove of tim¬
ber on the south branch of Chicago river, four
miles from its mouth, where Bridgeport is now
located. The land near the lake, being either wet
or sandy, rendered it unfit for farming purposes,
therefore, it was necessary to go up the river to
make a farm, where the prairie was more rolling
and the soil rich. The communication between
Mr. Lee's residence and his farm during the
MBS. BESSON'S NARRATIVE.
227
spring and summer, was principally by a canoe
on the river, as the road connecting them crosses
a flat prairie covered with water much of the
time.
Mr. Lee built two cabins 011 his farm, and em¬
ployed a number of persons to work the land.
For some years the grove with its surroundings,
was known as " Lee's Place," afterwards called
Hardscrable, and it was here the Indians killed
and scalped two persons, White and DeVow,
on the 7th of April, 1812, an account of which
is given in Mrs. Kinzie's early history of Chicago.
At the time of the Chicago massacre, Mr. Lee's
family consisted of his wife, an infant two months
old, Iiis son John of sixteen years, Mary, now
Mra Besson, the subject of our sketch, twelve,
Lillie, ten, and two small boys.
When the troops left Chicago for Fort Wayne,
Mr. Lee with his family accompanied them, tak¬
ing with him all his horses, but leaving behind a
large herd of cattle, which were on the following
day shot by the Indians. Mrs. Lee with her in¬
fant and two youngest children were in a covered
wagon, while the two girls were 011 horseback ;
and all followed the army along the beach of the
lake, on their march toward Fort Wayne on the
W abash.
Little Lillie was a very hansome child, a great
228 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIYER.
pet among the soldiers and citizens about the
fort, but she never before appeared so beautiful,
as on the morning they left Chicago. She was
mounted on a large gray horse, and to prevent
her from falling off or being thrown, was tied fast
to the saddle. She wore a white ruffled dress,
trimmed with pink ribbon, a black jockey hat with
a white plume on one side. As her horse pranced
and champed the bits at the sound of martial
music, little Lillie, in a queenly manner sat in
her saddle chatting gaily with her sister Mary,
who rode by her side. As the soldiers threw
kisses at her she would return them in her merry
glee, talking and laughing mirthfully with many
of her acquaintances. Her young heart was made
happy by the excitement of the morning, and had
no warning of the awful fate that awaited her,
less than one hour afterwards.
Soon the guns of five hundred savages were
raised against the troops, and by their murderous
fire a large portion of the brave band were
stricken down.
During the battle, little Lillie was wounded
and fell from her seat, but still hung by the cord
which bound her to the saddle. While in this
condition the frightened horse ran back and forth
until he was caught by an Indian, and the child
rescued from her perilous situation. When the
MRS. BKSSON'S NARRATIVE.
229
battle was over Waupekee, a chief who had often
been at Mr. Lee's house, and trotted little Lillie
on his knee, was much grieved to see her thus
wounded, as he loved the child as though she
were his own daughter. On examining Lillie's
wound and finding it mortal, the chief put an
end To her suffering with a stroke of his toma¬
hawk. Waupekee afterwards said, to tomahawk
little Lillie, was the hardest thing he ever did,
but he could not bear to see her suffering.
Mr. Lee and his son John were killed in the
battle, and the two young children fell victims to
the savages, while Mrs. Lee and infant, with Mary
were taken prisoners of war.
Mrs. Lee fell into the hands of Waupekee, who
had a village on the Des Plaines river, about
twenty miles from Chicago. This chief treated
his prisoners kindly, and tried to induce her to
marry him, notwithstanding lie already had three
wives. But she declined the marriage proposi¬
tion, hoping some day to be ransomed, and again
restored to friends and civilization.
During the winter Mrs. Lee's child took sick,
and after all the known remedies of the Indian
doctor had failed to remove the disease, the chief
proposed to take it to Chicago for medical treat¬
ment A Frenchman named DuPin, had taken
possession of Kinzie's house soon after the de-
230 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVEB.
struction of the fort, and here carried on a trade
with the Indians for a number of years.
On a cold day in the latter part of the winter,
Waupekee wrapped the sick infant in blankets,
mounted his pony and with his charge started for
Chicago. On arriving at DuPin's residence, Wau¬
pekee carefully laid his package on the floor.
"What have you there ?" asked the trader. To
which the chief replied, " A young raccoon,
which I have brought you as a present." And
unwrapping the package there lay the sick infant,
almost smothered in the thick folds of the blank¬
ets. The trader made a prescription for the child,
after which the chief carried it back to its moth¬
er, and it finally got well.
The trader became interested in the welfare of
Mrs. Lee, and offered Waupekee a large amount
of goods for his prisoner. The offer was accept¬
ed, the prisoner brought to the trading house and
set at liberty. Soon after Mrs. Lee's liberation,
this lonely captive widow became Madam Du-
Pin.
In the division of prisoners after the battle,
Mary Lee was taken to an Indian village on the
Kankakee river, and on the following spring was
taken to St. Louis and ransomed by General
Clark, the Indian agent. Some years afterward
she married a French Creole by the name of Bes-
MISSIONARIES OF ILLINOIS.
281
son, but is now a widow, living with a distant
connection of her husband's. Mary never met
her mother after that fatal day, and for many
years supposed she was killed with the other mem¬
bers of the family, but subsequently learned
of her captivity, liberation, marriage and death.
MISSIONARIES OF ILLINOIS.
In every French settlement of the west a Je¬
suit missionary preceded it, and much credit is
due to them for preparing the minds of the In¬
dians to the introduction of their countrymen.
Many of these missionaries were talented and
efficient bearers of the cross, who devoted their
whole lives to the conversion of heathens. They
traveled through all parts of the west, from Can¬
ada to New Orleans, sacrificing the comforts of
civilization for the purpose of Christianizing the
Indians.
As early as the year 1640, Father Nicollet, a
French Jesuit priest from Canada, preached to
the Indians within the limits of Illinois. This
devout priest traveled through the lake country
in advance of all other missionaries, preaching to
the Indians and telling them the story of the
cross. He visited Green Bay in 1638, and in all
probability was the first white man that ever
232 FRENCH AND INDIÁN8 OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
rowed a canoe on the waters of Lake Michigan.
He passed down the west side of the lake to the
mouth of Chicago river, where he met a large
party of Illinois Indians, engaged in fishing.
Here Father Nicollet remained many days,
preaching to the Indians, some of whom were
converted and received baptism. At the mouth
of the river he raised a cross, and taught the In¬
dians to look upon it when trouble and
misfortune overtook them, and through its effica¬
cy all their evils would be expelled. The spot
where the cross was erected was hallowed by the
Indians, and pointed out to Marquette on his
visit to the place twenty-three years afterwards.
Father Nicollet lived ten years among the sav¬
ages, without meeting a white man, and became
an Indian in dress, habit and language, still re¬
mained a zealous Catholic, but at last he returned
to civilization because he could not live without
the sacrament.
After Marquette, probably the most devoted
and successful missionary was Father Allonez,
who established missions in various parts of the
west. He came to America when a young man,
and spent a long life in preaching to the Indians,
and left his bones in the wilds of the west. He
established a mission at St. Mary's, one at Green
and one at St. Joseph, but the last and most
MISSIONARIES OP ILLINOIS.
233
important ones were at Caliokia and Kaskaskia.
In the year 1632, Father Allonez and Father
Hngnes Pinet accompanied La Salle in Iiis voyage
to the mouth of the Mississippi, and they
preached to the Indians at every village where
they stopped. On the return oí this exploring
party, they halted several days at Caliokia, which
at that time was a large Indian village. The na¬
tives supplied the voyageurs with corn and
buffalo meat, and the best lodges in the village
were provided for their occupation.
When La Salle's party were about to continue
their journey, the Indians prevailed on the two
priests to remain with them, and teach them the
word of life. The devoted priests consented to
remain, and set about Christianizing the heath¬
ens. They visited Kaskaskia and other Indian
villages, baptizing a large number of warriors,
and enrolled their names in the church book.
The Indians everywhere welcomed the priests,
listening to their teachings and doing their bid¬
ding. They learned the story of Christ's
crucifixion, and with a trembling voice repeated
it to their friends. They not only received bap¬
tism at the hands of the priests, but allowed
themselves to be sprinkled with holy water,
which they believed blotted out all their past sins
and saved them from perdition.
234 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
For twenty years Father Pinet remained at
Cahokia preaching to the Indians, but on feeling
the infirmities of age he went to Fort St. Louis,
where he died on the 15th of July, 1704, in the
seventy-ninth year of his age. They buried him
in the French cemetery on the river bank, at the
west end of LeRocher, and over his grave was
erected a large monumental cross hewn out of
red cedar.
About the year 1814, an old man with long
white hair, which hung in matted clusters over
his shoulders, by the name of Wigby, appeared
among the Indians, and for a number of years
preached at different villages along the Illinois
river. Nothing is known of this man's history,
except that he had been for a long time among
the Indians on the Wabash, and spoke their lan¬
guage well. It is believed that he was a Baptist,
as he immersed all his converts, telling them that
this was necessary for their admission into the
happy hunting grounds beyond the skies.
Wigby lived at Senachwine's village, and was
accompanied by that chief in all his ministerial
labors among the different bands. Senachwine
was baptized by him, and professed to be a Chris¬
tian, but the missionary could not induce him to
abandon polygamy and put away his many wives.
Four years after Wigby came to the country
MISSIONARIES OP ILLINOI8.
235
lie died, and was buried on a high bluff overlook¬
ing the village of Senachwine, and his grave was
pointed out to some of the early settlers.
Among the energetic and successful Protestant
missionaries of this country, was Elder Jesse
Walker, of the Methodist denomination, who
acquired great celebrity thoughout the west. For
many years Walker was engaged in holding camp
meetings in the south part of the State, but in the
year the 1824 he came north and established
missions along the frontier settlements.
Elder Walker was a short, heavy-set man, very
dark skin, walked erect, with an independent
pompous bearing, and possessed great energy and
force of character. He was a bold undaunted
missionary, bearing the standard of the cross
triumphantly into the wilds of the west, among
the red man as well as the white.
In 1826 Elder Walker established a mission
school among the Indians at a place called Mission
Point, on the Illinois river, a short distance above
Ottawa. He also established the first church at
Chicago ; died and was buried at Plainfield, about
the time the settlement commenced there.
A Baptist missionary by the name of Adam
Paine, preached among the Indians with great
success, but was killed by them at the commence¬
ment of the Black Hawk war.
CHAPTER XX.
Howard's expedition against the Indians.
In September, 1813, General Howard left
Portage des Sioux on the Missouri river, with an
expedition against the Pottawatomie Indians.
His army consisted of five hundred regulars and
nine hundred volunteers ; the latter from Illinois
and Missouri. The regulars ascended the Illinois
river in keel-boats, while the volunteers being
mounted, crossed the Mississippi near the pres¬
ent site of Quincy, and marched through the wild
country to Peoria. On arriving at Peoria they
found it desolated, nothing remained of the old
French town except a few charred timbers, of
which the buildings had been constructed. No
Indians were seen here, but in the timber near
the outlet of the lake, there were signs of having
been a recent encampment of them.
The troops encamped on the old town site, and
a strong picket guard placed around the encamp-
INDIANS COLLECT ON BUBEAtJ. 237
ment to prevent being surprised by the Indians.
During the night an alarm was given, and a
report circulated through the camp, that they
were about to be attacked by a large body of
Indians. All the troops were under arms, many
shots were fired at the phantoms, and one soldier
killed by a sentinel, the alarm, however, was
false, as no Indians made their appearance.
On the following day, the army went up to
Gotno's village situated at the head of the lake,
but found it deserted and no Indians were seen
in its vicinity. After burning the town and des¬
troying the corn in the caches, the army returned
to Peoria and built a fort.
INDIANS COLLECT ON BUBEAU.
Indian scouts discovered General Howard's
army on its arrival at Peoria, and notified their
friends at the different villages, of the fact. The
inhabitants oí Gomo's, Senachwine's and other
villages, fled from their homes on being warned
of their danger, and collected at Coma's village
on Bureau creek. Here they intended to make a
stand ; await the approach of the invading army,
and fight for their country and homes. All the
squaws and pappooses, with old warriors unable
to bear arms, were sent up the creek about seven
238 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
miles above the town, and there secreted them-
in the thick timber of the Bureau.*
At Coma's village were collected about one
thousand warriors, occupying all the lodges ; and
the bank of the creek for a long distance was cov¬
ered with camping tents. On the bottom prairie
below the village hundreds of ponies were feed¬
ing, all of which were spanceled, so they could
be caught and mounted at a moment's notice.
It was expected that Howard's army would
follow up the river, and attack them in their re¬
treat, so a suitable place was selected to make a
defense. This was in the thick timber, some dis¬
tance below the village, where they could fire on
* About two miles northwest of Princeton, in the valley of
Bureau Is a singular narrow ridge about sixty feet high, extend¬
ing from the east bluff part way across the bottom. This re¬
markable ridge, which looks like a freak of nature, Is known
as the Back Bone, and along it now passes a public road.
Among the Indians this place was a noted landmark, and it be¬
came equally so with hunters, in the early settlement of the
country.
Immediately north of the Back Bone amid the thick bottom
timber was an old Indian camping ground, and here their camp
poles stood long after they had left the country. In the fall ot
1836, a party ol Indian hunters were encamped here for many
days, and while in conversation with one of them, I obtained
the following scrap of history :
" Many years ago when I was a small boy," said an Indian
hunter, " four thousand squaws and pappooses were encamped
on this very spot. Here they remained for many weeks secret¬
ed among the thick timber, so the army of whites could not
find them." At that time all the warriors were at Indiantown,
with the intention of fighting the whites if they came up the
river In pursuit of them.
lieutenant bobenson's party.
239
the invaders while crossing a small bottom prairie.
Indian sconts who were all the time on the
alert, discovered troops ascending the river in
keel-boats, and in all haste conveyed the tidings
to the village. On receiving these tidings, the
drums beat, Indians yelled, all was bustle and ex¬
citement, and soon the warriors were secreted in
their ambuscade awaiting the enemy. But when
they found that the boats continued on up the
river, they returned to the village.
gunboats ascend the river—lieutenant rob-
enson's party.
Four keel-boats, mounted with cannon and
filled with armed soldiers belonging to the regular
army, under the command of Major Christy, as¬
cended the river from Peoria in search of Indians.
On landing at the different villages along the
river, they found them deserted, all the Indians
having fled from their homes. It was intended
to ascend the Illinois as far as the mouth of Fox
river, but finding it difficult to pass the
rapids, they stopped at Starved Bock. On the
following day the boats were turned down stream,
landing at the mouth of Bureau creek, from
here a party was sent out in search of Indians.
About eighty soldiers, under the command of
o
240 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOÏ8 RIVER.
Lieutenant Robenson, marched up Bureau creek
with the intention of visiting Coma's village, lo¬
cated nine miles distant. Atter going six or seven
miles up the valley, through thick timber with
occasional bottom prairie, they discovered a trail
tilled with fresh poney tracks. On seeing these
Indian signs, they came to a halt, and held a con¬
sultation on the propriety of proceeding further.
Knowing that they were near a large Indian vil¬
lage, and at any point of timber were liable to
fall into an ambuscade of lurking savages. Some
were in favor of going on and burn the village if
vacated, but fortunately a majority opposed it,
consequently they turned about and retraced
their steps to the river.
On the return of Robenson's command, who re¬
ported no Indians found, Major Christy came to
the conclusion that they had fled from the country,
he made preparations to descend the river.
Before leaving, the cannons fired a salute, toasts
were drank, and the stream named Robenson's
river, which name it bore for many years after¬
wards, and so appeared on the early maps of the
state.
Indian scouts had watched the keel-boats as
they ascended and descended the river, and
on seeing them land at the mouth of the creek
and send out troops to make observations, they
howard's army attacked by indians. 24
pat their ponies on a gallop to convey the tidings
to the village, and it it was the tracks of their
ponies which Robenson's party discovered. On
learning of the approach of the whites, warriors
mounted their ponies, and rode with all haste to the
place where they intended to attack the invaders.
Here many of the warriors secreted themselves
among the thick timber, while those mounted
remained in the rear to intercept the vanquished
troops. Had the soldiers under Robenson con¬
tinued their march toward the Indian village,
the probabilities are not one of them would
have escaped from death, as the warriors out-num¬
bered them ten to one, and many of them mounted,
while the troops were on foot.
Howard's army attacked by Indians.
When the army under the command of General
Howard arrived at Peoria, Black Partridge made
an effort to unite the different bands, and thereby
raise a large force to attack them before fortifica¬
tions could be erected. Shaubena, Waba and
Waubonsie, with many of their followers, were
with Tecumseh on the Wabash, and the warriors
of the different bands could not be united under
any one chief. Senachwine was opposed to an
offensive war, and being a chief of great influ¬
ence and gifted with stirring eloquence, carried
242 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
with him a large portion of the warriors. Black
Partridge was grave and morose, brooding over
the wrongs which he received from the whites the
year before, and lived only for revenge. Not¬
withstanding he had taken many scalps the
past summer, and murdered defenseless women
and children, still he thirsted for more blood.
It was a beautiful clear day in the early part of
Indian summer; the warriors were lounging along
Bureau creek, some fishing, others running foot
races, wrestling or playing with balls or hoops.
All was quiet at the village, neither war dances,
religious feasts, nor marriage festivals, nothing
whatever to relieve the monotony of camp life.
A party of warriors were about to start on a hunt,
when two scouts arrived from Peoria, saying that
the army was engaged in building a fort for the
purpose of holding possession of the country. At
this announcement Black Partridge, armed with
a rifle and tomahawk, mounted his pony and rode
back and forth through the camp calling for vol¬
unteers to follow him to victory. About three
hundred responded to the call, among whom was
a young brave named Autuckee, afterward head-
chief at Indiantown, and known by many of the
early settlers of this country. The warriors
mounted their ponies, and before sundown were
on their way to meet the enemy. Traveling pa rt
Howard's army attacked by Indians. 243
of the night they encamped in the river timber,
about four miles above Peoria, and on the follow¬
ing day attacked the army. "While the soldiers
were engaged in building a fort, unconscious of
danger, they were attacked by this body of Indians,
and had it not been for persons outside of the
picket guard giving timely alarm, in all probability
a bloody battle would have been the result.
The following account of this affair is taken
from the statement of Colonel George Daven¬
port, who at that time, was a non-commissioned
officer in the regular army, but in after years be¬
came a noted Indian trader at Rock Island.
A well having been dug within the stockades
to supply the fort with water, it became necessary
to have a sweep to draw it, so Mr. Davenport
with two companions went into the woods to get
a grapevine for that purpose. Having found one
to answer the purpose, Davenport climbed the
tree to cut it off, and while doing so he discovered
a body of Indians skulking through the timber
in the direction of the fort. On seeing their
danger, Davenport and his companions fled to¬
wards the fort, but finding Indians in that
direction they turned their course for the gun¬
boats which were moored in the lake. With all
their speed they ran for the boats, closely followed
by the Indians, who fired at them yelling like de-
244 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
mons. The men on board of the gunboats, being
alarmed for their own safety, pushed them off
from the shore, but fortunately one grounded on
a sand bar, which was the means of saving the
life of Davenport and his companions. The fug¬
itives rushed into the water, waist deep, and
pushed the grounded boat off" and jumped on
board of it. During this time the Indians were
firing on then, and many of the balls whizzed by
their heads, lodging in the side of the boat. The
boats were now off some distance from shore, still
the Indians continued to fire on them, but with¬
out effect. A cannon on one of the boats was
brought to bear on the savages, but in the excite¬
ment of the moment its muzzle was raised above
the port hole, and the ball tore off a portion of
one side of the vessel.
The Indians attacked the fort, which was in an
unfinished condition, but met with a warm recep¬
tion from the soldiers. The cannon on the boat
having been brought to bear on the savages, they
abandoned the attack and fled for the timber, and
on the following day returned to their village on
Bureau creek.
BUILDING OF FORT CLARK.
Preparations having been made to build a fort
BUILDING OF FORT CLARK.
245
on the site of the old French town, for the pur¬
pose of holding possession of the country.
Timbers were cut on the opposite side of the
lake and floated across to build block and store
houses, and enclose the fort with palisades. On
a high piece of ground near the bank of the lake,
and having a commanding view of it, they erect¬
ed a fort. This fort was a simple stockade, one
hundred and twenty feet square, constructed by
placing in the ground two rows of split timbers,
eighteen feet long, and filling the space between
with dirt. A ditch surrounded the fort, and at
two corners were bastions for mounting cannon.
The fort stood with one corner to the lake, and
at the southwest angle was a gateway, guarded
by two heavy doors made out of split logs or
puncheons. Inside of the stockades was a large
block-bouse, two stories high, and 011 three sides
of which were port holes so the inmates could
fire on the enemy in case of an attack. Besides
the block-house there were store-houses and
quarters for the officers, and a number of small
dwellings for soldiers.
When the fort was completed and the cannon
mounted on its ramparts, with the flags waving
on its bastions, General Howard ordered all the
soldiers on duty, who formed in double file, front¬
ing the gateway. A speech was made by the
246 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
commanding officer, the drums beat, the soldiers
cheered, the cannon fired a salute, and with much
enthusiasm the fort was dedicated, and named
Fort Clark in honor of General George Roger
Clark, the hero of Kaskaskia and Yincinnes.
With the army at Fort Clark was a Yankee
peddler, who acted as a sutler, by the name of
Jenkins, but on account of his close dealing ac¬
quired the cognomen oí "Old Skinflint." He
was very unpopular with the soldiers, and all
efforts to beat him in trade had been a failure.
Among the volunteers was one John Murdick,
who was very fond of whiskey, but seldom had
money to buy it, so he put his wits to work in or¬
der to get some out of "Old Skinflint," as he call¬
ed the sutler. Murdick placed in the bosom of
his hunting shirt two black bottles, one of which
was empty and the other filled with water. Tak¬
ing out the empty bottle the sutler filled it with
whiskey, when Murdick replaced it in his bosom,
saying at the same time that he was out of money,
and it would have to be charged to him. The
sutler became angry, and after much parleying,
with many hard words on both sides, Murdick
consented to give up the whisky, but took out the
bottle containing the water, which "Old Skinflint"
emptied into the cask while Murdick walked off
with the whisky.
CHAPTER XXI.
A TREATY OF PEACE.
Black Partridge and his friends finding it im¬
possible to unite the different bands, so as to
prosecute the war successfully, thought it best to
make peace, and accordingly a large delegation of
chiefs and warriors went to Fort Clark for that
purpose. When this party arrived within a few
miles of Peoria, they came to a halt, and Senach-
wine, with two warriors carrying white flags,
went forward to the gate of the fort and proposed
to meet the commanding officer in council. Ar¬
rangements were made for a meeting on the
following day, in a grove of timber above the
fort, for the purpose of agreeing on terms of
peace. At the appointed time about forty chiefs
and warriors, decorated with wreaths of turkey
feathers, made their appearance and were met
by General Howard and all the officers of his
command. After shaking hands and passing
248 FKENOH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOI8 RIVEE.
around the pipe of peace, Senachwine made a
a speech before the council, in which he said that
they had come to make peace with the whites,
and bury the tomahawk forever. In reply to
this speech General Howard said that he had no
power to treat with them, but proposed to con¬
duct their head chiefs to General Clark,
superintendent of Indian affairs at St. Louis, who
alone was authorized to make terms of peace.
The Indians consented to this, and a delegation
of thirteen chiefs and one squaw were selected
to go to St. Louis. Among these chiefs were
Black Partridge, Senachwine, Comas, Shick Shack
and Gomo. General Howard ordered George
Davenport to select four trusty men and escort
these Indians to St. Louis.
All necessary arrangements having been made,
this party on the following day went on board of
a pirogue and started down the river for St. Louis.
It being late in December, the weather cold, con¬
sequently after one day's journey the river froze
up, and the remainder of the journey was made
on foot The pirogue was secreted in the thick
timber, a short distance from the river, and each
person carried with him a small quantity of pro¬
visions, leaving the remainder of their stores, in¬
cluding a keg of whisky, in a hollow tree, so
they could be used on their return. At night
treaty of peace.
249
both whites and Indians camped together, but
each party kept a guard on duty, as they feared
treachery.
This party after five days travel, arrived safe at
St. Louis, a treaty of peace was concluded, and
the Indians left five of their number at the garri¬
son as a hostage for its fulfillment. The Indians
on their return were escorted as far as Alton,
above the settlement, and they returned to their
homes.
After peace was made with the Indians, Fort
Clark was abandoned, the troops returned to the
settlement, and the volunteers were discharged
from service.
waubon8ie
Was a chief among the Pottawatomies, and the
leader of a small band consisting of about one
hundred and twenty persons. It is said that he
once had a village near the mouth of Fox river,
but for many years he with his band made their
home at Paw Paw Grove. Waubonsie was a
large, fine looking Indian, tall and square built,
with a hadsome face, an intelligent countenance,
and i il the latter part of his life became quite
corpulent. He had an independent, pompous ap¬
pearance, over-bearing towards his people,
250 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
and not very courteous to the whites, had it not
been for his color, dress and language, he might
have been taken for a thorough-bred Johnny Bull.
At the commencement of the Black Hawk war
Waubonsie was in favor of forming an alliance
with the Sacs and Foxes, and at a council held at
Indiantown in February, 1832, made a speech to
that effect. But being overruled by his people,
he professed to be friendly to the whites, joined
Atkinson's army at Dixon, and fought against
Black Hawk.
At the commencemerit of the British war,
Waubonsie was only a common warrior and went
with Shaubena to the Wabash, but was soon
after made a chief on account of the following act
of bravery: One day he left the camp to hunt
deer in the woods, and on coming near the Wa¬
bash river he heard the sound of voices. Ap¬
proaching cautiously he discovered a party of
soldiers cordeling a boat up the river, loaded with
stores for Fort Harrison. To shoot one of the
soldiers and make his escape would have been
an easy matter, but this would not satisfy his am¬
bition, as he could not in this way obtain the scalp
as a trophy. One man only was on the boat
steering it, while the other four were ahead with
a cordel line. As the boat came near the shore
Waubonsie jumped on board, tomahawked the
WAUB0N8IE.
251
man at helm, took off his scalp, and with it made
his escape. For this act of bravery he was made
a war chief, and became the leader of a band.
In the summer of 1836 Waubonsie, with a few
of his band came to Princeton, and bought of
McCayga Triplett a beautiful spotted stallion of
the Rocky Mountain breed, for which he paid
three hundred dollars in silver, all in twenty-five
cent pieces. Sometime afterwards, while the old
chief was under the influence of whisky, mounted
on his fine black and white horse, he rode back
and forth through the town, putting on as much
style as though he was a general in command of
an army. To those around him he narrated (in
bad English,) his many heroic exploits while
. fighting with Tecumsch, and told how many scalps
he had taken with his own hands. From a pouch
in his buckskin hunting shirt he drew forth two
scalps, one of which the hair was red and the
other black. The red one he said was taken from
the head of a soldier at the battle of River Rasin,
and the black one from a boatman on the Wa¬
bash.
In the fall of 1836 Waubonsie, went west with
his band, and was never seen in this country
afterwards. A short time after his arrival in
the west, he was killed by a party of Sacs and
Foxes for having fought against them in the late
252 TRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
war. His scalp was taken off, the body mutilated
and left on the prairie to be devoured by wolves.
The Sacs and Foxes made an attempt to kill
Shaubena for the same offense, and for months
haunted him down as though he was $ wild
beast. To preserve his life he fled fiom the
country, returning to his old home in Illinois,
where he ended his days, but his son and nephew
fell victims to these savages.
BURNING OP FORT CLARK.
It has already been stated, that Fort Clark was
abandoned soon after it was built, and never occu¬
pied afterwards. No white person lived at Peoria,
(then known as Fort Clark,) after the troops
vacated the fort until the spring of 1819. The
gate of the fort being left open, became a lair
for deer and a roost for wild turkeys. In the fall
of 1816, a party of hunters from St. Clair county,
came to Fort Clark and found about twenty deer
in it. The floor of the houses were covered with
manure, and it also showed unmistakable signs
of having been a turkey roost. The hunters
cleaned out one of the buildings and occupied it
as a residence during a stay of ten days, while
hunting deer and collecting honey in the river
timber. Fort Clark stood unmolested until the
BURNING OF FORT CLARK.
253
fall of 1818, when it was burned by the Indians.
The following account of the burning of the fort
is taken from the statement of Colonel Gerden S.
Hubbard, now a resident of Chicago :
In the fall of 1818, Antoine Des Champs, gen¬
eral agent of the American Fur Company,
accompanied by a number of persons were on
their way to St Louis, with two small boats
loaded with furs. On rounding the point of
the lake they discovered Fort Clark on
fire. On landing at the fort they found about
two firandred Indians engaged in a war dance,
celebrating some event which occurred in the late
British war. The warriors almost naked, hide¬
ously painted, and as they went through the
dan^e yelled like demons. They had a large num¬
ber oí scalps hanging to their belts, and in one
part of the dance these were placed on the end of
spears and held above their heads, after which
they would go through the motions of taking
them from the heads of their victims.
Des Champs was well acquainted with a num¬
ber of the Indians, and he went among them,
engaged in conversation, leaving the boats guard¬
ed by one of his men and Mr. Hubbard, who at
that tine was a boy of only sixteen years of age.
The Indians inquired of Des Champs, who this
boy was, and in reply said that he was his adopt-
254 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
ed son from Montreal, but they did not credit
this statement, saying he looked like an Ameri¬
can, and therefore regarded him with much
suspicion. An Indian took a scalp from his belt,
holding it near Hubbard's face, saying to him,
that he was an American and it was taken from
the head oí his countrymen. Young Hubbard
became much frightened at these demonstrations,
and the Indian continued to annoy him by dip¬
ping the scalp in the water, and with the long
hair sprinkled his face. In an instant all fear
vanished from young Hubbard, and picking up a
gun which lay in the bottom of the boat fired it
at the Indian, but as it went off the man in the
boat threw up the muzzle, thereby saving the In¬
dian's life. This affair created great excitement,
and the Indians collected around the boat to as¬
certain the cause of it. Des Champs fearing
trouble, bid his Indian friends good-bye, went
aboard of the boat and continued on his way down
the river, camping on the opposite side some miles
below.
Although the buildings of Fort Clark and part
of the stockades were burned, as before stated, a
portion of the latter stood for many years after¬
wards. In the spring of 1819 a party of
emigrants from Clinton county, among whom
were Captain Abner Eads, Isaac and Josiah Ful-
BURNING OF FORT CLARK.
255
ton and J. Hersey, came to Fort Clark, and from
that time dates the first American settlement at
this place. These emigrants pitched their tents
against the stockades of the old fort, and for some
years afterwards the enclosure within the pickets
was used for penning work cattle. During the
Black Hawk war in the summer of 1832, the old
fort was repaired, new pickets put in place of
those burned, and used by the people to protect
themselves from the threatened attack of Indians.
One of the pickets of Fort Clark was still
standing and perfectly sound as late as 1844, and
attracted much attention as a relic of the past.
It stood near the residence of Charles Ballance,
Esq., who sawed off the top, put a ring in it, and
used it for a hitching post. Afterwards this
post was taken up by Mr. Drown, made into
walking canes, and sold on speculation at fifty
cents each. One of these canes is now in the
possession of Samuel Sneed, of St. Clair county,
who assisted in building the fort sixty-one
years ago.
p
CHAPTER XXII.
IMMIGRATION OF POTTAWATOMIES
The following traditionary account of the im¬
migration of Pottawatomies to Illinois was
recently gathered from the tribe in western Kan¬
sas :
In the year 1769 the Pottawatomies oí Ohio,
Michigan and Indiana came west and took pos¬
session of the Illinois country. A village was
built on Des Plaines river, and one on Sycamore
creek. A chief named Wanesee who had ac¬
quired great fame in the Pontiac war, located a
village at the mouth of Fox river. On the south
side of the river opposite the outlet of Lake
De Pue a village was built, but abandoned soon
after for one on the north side of the lake.
An old chief named Wappe, with seven wives
and about four hundred followers, located on
Bureau creek, nine miles above its mouth, on the
present site of Tiskilwa. For many years this
IMMIGRATION OF POTTAWATOMIE8. 257
village bore the name of its founder, afterwards
Coma's village, but known by the early settlers
as Indiantown. A chief named Tiskilwa lived
here at one time, but little is known of his history
except he had many wives and was a great hun¬
ter.
On the west side of the river near the mouth
of Crow creek a village was founded by White
Crow, who with his band came from the lake
country. This chief died the same year the
buffalo left the country, and a large mound, which
is still to be seen, raised over his grave. In the
early settlement of the country a chief named
Crow lived here, from whom Crow creek and
Crow prairie took their names.
The largest town on the river stood on the
present site of Chillicothe, which was known in
after years as Gomo's village. In the spring af¬
ter the Starved Rock massacre, a chief by the
name of Mucktapennesee or Black Bird with
about five hundred followers came from the Wa¬
bash and located here. After the death of this
chief his two sons were contestants for the chief¬
tainship. Part of the band favored one and part
the other. Failing to agree, one of the chiefs
with a portion of the band located on the east
side of the river at what was known in after years
as Black Partridge's village. A few years after-
258 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIYER.
wards these two chiefs with many of their
warriors were killed in a battle with the Kaskas-
kia Indians.
West of the river on a small creek was an In¬
dian village, the home of the celebrated chief
Senachwine, but nothing is known of its early
history.
POTTAWATOMIES OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
After the Illinois Indians were annihilated
their conquerors took possession of the country
and occupied it about seventy yeara Between
Peoria lake and the mouth of Fox river had
long been known as the Indian country, and no
part of the great west was so densely populated
as this. Here lived the larger portion of the
Illinoians, and here too were found their succes¬
sors, the Pottawatomies. Although their towns
and cornfields were mostly located on the Illinois
river, they claimed as hunting grounds the coun¬
try from the Wabash to the Mississippi river, and
over this vast country they roamed at pleasure.
In the year 1800 the commissioner of Indian af¬
fairs estimated that thirty thousand Indians
(including all the different tribes) were living
within the boundaries of this state, and about
three-fifths of this number were on the Illinois
POTTAWATOMIES OF ILLINOIS BIVER. 259
river. In the central portion of the state were a
few villages of Kiekapoo Indians, who spoke the
same language as the Pottawatomies, and inter¬
marrying with each other became as one people.
In the southern part of the state lived a large
band of Kaskaskia Indians, who were frequently
at war with the Pottawatomies, and raids were
after made into each other's country. For
many years a large tract of country laying be¬
tween these tribes was overrun with game, as
both tribes were afraid to hunt there, being liable
to an attack by a war party of the enemy.
Sometime between the years 1785 and 1790
the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos attacked a war
party of Kaskaskians on Cash river, (now in
Johnson county,) and killed a large number of
them. Tradition points out the place where
this massacre took place, and in a cave near by is
still to be seen the bones of hundred of the slain.
On the 24th of August, 1816, a treaty was
signed at St. Louis between Governor Ninian
Edwards, General William Clark and Auguste
Chauteau, commissioners on the part of the
United States government, and twenty-eight In¬
dian chiefs representing the Pottawatomies,
Ottawas and Chippewas. Twenty-three of these
chiefs were Pottawatomies, three Ottawas, and
two Chippewas. A number of Sacs, Foxes and
260 FBENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS BIVEB.
Kickapoo chiefs were present at this treaty, whose
names appear as witnesses to the papers.
In this treaty, the Pottawatomies sold most of
their lands, including all the country between the
Illinois and Mississippi rivers, known as the Mil¬
itary Tract. This purchase extended north as
far as the Indian Boundary Line, which ran from
a point on Lake Michigan, south of Chicago, to
the Mississippi river, near Rock Island. This
line was surveyed in the summer of 1819 by John
C. Sullivan, under the direction of Graham and
Phillips, commissioners appointed by the Presi¬
dent of the United States for that purpose. For
a part of the way it divided the country between
the Pottawatomies and Winnebagoes, and was
made a standard line in the surveys of the state.
In the year 1840 Wisconsin made a claim
to that part of Illinois laying north of this line
under the ordinance of 1787, and for some time
it was a matter of controversy between the re¬
spective states.
Although the Pottawatomies had sold their
lands, it was stipulated in the conditions of sale
that they were to occupy them until required for
actual settlement, and they gave them up only
when the tide of emigrants obliged them to do so.
These Indians left the country at different
times from 1832 to 1836, to occupy lands assigned
POTTAW ATOMIES OF ILLINOIS RIVER. 261
them by the government on the west side of the
Missouri river. But their trails across the prai¬
ries, and camp poles were seen here for many
years afterwards.
Among the chiefs known by fur traders and
early settlers, who died in this country and
buried near their native villages, were Senach-
wine, Black Partridge, Gomo, Waba, Comas, and
Shick Shack. Waubonsie, Autuekee, Meam-
muse, with other chiefs of less note went west
with their respective bands. Shaubena went west
with his band in the fall of 1836, but on the fol¬
lowing year returned with his family to this
country, and died on the bank of the Illinois river
near Seneca, in the year 1858, and was buried in
Morris cemetery.
Indians everywhere are attached to their home
—the land of their nativity—but those on the
Illinois river were unusually so. Their country
was well supplied wfith game, and the groves
filled with bee trees. Here were their sugar
camps' and the place oí holding war dances and
annual religious feasts. To their friends among
the early settlers and fur traders, many of them
with tears in their eyes expressed their regrets of
leaving the home of their youth for a new one in
a strange land.
For a number of years after the Indians left
262 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
this country, small parties of them were occasion¬
ally seen in the vicinity of their native villages,
having returned for the purpose of once more
looking on the scene of their youth, and the
graves of their fathers. But soon their trails
were fenced up by early pioneers, and the graves
of tbeir ancestors plowed over, so they ceased to
return in after years.
It was intended to give a more elaborate ac¬
count of the Pottawatomies of Illinois river, but
the material is not at hand to do so. Many inci¬
dences relating to hunting parties, treaties, &c., are
from tradition, others from Indian agents and fur
traders, but they are found conflicting, and there¬
fore bear no part in this work.
Col. Barassa, of western Kansas, an educated
half-breed, with whom I have a personal acquain¬
tance, has furnished many items relating to the
Indians of Illinois river, some of which are given
to the public, and others rejected as foreign to
our purpose.
CEREMONIES OVER SENACHWINE GRAVE.
In the summer of 1831, Senachwine died and
was buried on a high bluft, overlooking the vil¬
lage and surrounding country where his grave is
still to be seen. A wooden monument was
placed over his grave, and by its side was planted
CEREMONIES OVER SENAOHWINE'S GRAVE. 263
a high pole, 011 which for many years waved a
black flag. Two years after Senachwine's death,
his band left for the west, and are now living in
western Kansas.
In the summer of 1835, twenty-three warriors
with their heads decorated with turkey feathers,
and their faces painted in various colors, encamp¬
ed 011 the site of Senachwine's village, while
their ponies were feeding on the prairie near by.
These warriors were sons and grandsons of
Senachwine, and had traveled about five hundred
miles to visit his grave. With their faces blacked
and tlieir heads covered with blankets, they knelt
around the grave invoking the Great Spirit to
protect the remains of the departed chief. For
many hours they remained in this position, while
their wails and lamentations were heard far away.
After the mourning, came the dance of the dead ;
which is described by an eye witness, Mr. Reeves
as very effecting. The warriors divested them¬
selves of their clothing, and smeared their bodies
with red paint, while on their cheeks and fore¬
heads were many figures representing the sun,
moon and stars. Their clothing, rifles, tomahawks
and scalping knives, were placed by the side of
the pole that stood at the head of the grave ;
and were now ready to commence the dance.
The warriors joining hands, dancing in a circle
264 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
around the grave, singing and chanting .all the
while. At intervals, they would stop dancing,
the leader repeat a few words, when all would
yell at the top of their voice ; after which they
would cry for a moment, and then continue the
dance as before. When these ceremonies were
ended the warriors mounted their ponies and left
for their home in the far west.
A few days after the ceremonies, some person
opened Senachwine's grave and robbed it of all
its valuables, consisting of rifle, tomahawk,
medals, &c., which were buried with him. The
bones were also taken out and scattered around
the grave, and bunch of long gray hair still
adhered to the skull, giving it a ghastly appear¬
ance. Some days afterward a party of Indians
belonging to Shaubena's band gathered up
Senachwine's bones, reburied them, and placed
the wooden monument again over his grave.
During the summer of 1835 James R. Talia¬
ferro built a dwelling on the site of Senach¬
wine's village, where he now lives. Mr. Taliaferro
was present at the reburial of Senachwine's re¬
mains, and says that Indians from the west at
different times made a pilgrimage to the grave. He
also says that the pole stood at the head of the
grave for many years, as well as the beaten path
around it made by the dancing of warriors.
CHAPTER XXIII.
ATTEMPT TO MURDER A SURVEYING PARTY.
During the summer of 1822 the government
surveys were completed in the Military District
as far north as the Indian Boundary Line. At
that time there was no settlement north of
Springfield, and the country was full of Indians
who still held it by the right of possession.
Along Bureau creek were two surveying parties,
one headed by Thomas C. Rector, and the other
by Stephen Rector, with their camp on East
Bureau, about one mile above its junction with
the main creek. "With these surveyors was a
man named John Hanks, who was engaged as
teamster, but spent much of his time in hunting
and supplying the camp with meat. One night
Hanks with two companions visited the Indian
village, and making free with the squaws, be¬
came involved in a difficulty, and one of them
received a wound by a tomahawk in the hand of
an enraged Indian. One day while Hanks was
266 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
hunting deer in the creek timber, he encountered
a young Indian maiden, accompanied by two
small pappooses gathering flowers. Hanks made
overtures to the squaw when she ran towards the
village, but was caught and her person violated
by the hunter. On arriving at the village and
telling of her wrongs, the warriors were greatly
agitated, and some of them threatened to shoot
the culprit. A young warrior whose fancied bride,
was this young maiden, made preparations to
avenge her wrongs, and during the night, accom¬
panied by about fifty of his friends, left for the
camp of the surveyors, with the intention of
killing the whole party as they lay asleep on their
bunks. Soon after they left, their murderous in¬
tentions became known in the village, when a drum
beat an alarm, to arouse the warriors from their
slumber. Autuckee, the head chief, with many
of his friends, mounted their ponies, and rode
with all speed, overtaking the would-be murder¬
ers before reaching the camp, compelling them to
return, and thereby saving the lives of the sur¬
veyors. The young warrior with a few of his
friends were kept under guard until the survey¬
ors left the country.
KALTOO, OR YOUNG SENACHWINE.
On the death of Senachwine his son succeeded
EALTOO, OB YOUNG SENACHWINE. 267
him as chief of the band, and became noted among
the early pioneers. His Indian name was Kaltoo,
but was better known among fur traders as young
Senachwine. He was an Indian of fine personal
appearance, possessing excellent physical and
mental powers, equal to his distinguished sire,
but was affected with the demon of drunkenness.
This young chief made frequent visits to trading
poets along the river where he would spend days
in dissipation, and sometimes get into trouble with
the traders. While his band was encamped on
the beech of the lake above Peoria, they held
what is called a fish dance, and being well sup¬
plied with whisky, many got drunk, and while in
the revelry one of the warriors killed another.
Young Senachwine, accompanied by a number
of warriors, took the murderer to Ottawa for the
purpose of having him hung in accordance with
the custom of the whites. On taking the mur¬
derer to the residence of Geo. E. Walker, then
an Indian trader, but now of the Oriental Block,
LaSalle street, Chicago, requested him to hang
the culprit. Mr. Walker did not like to offend
the chief, as he had a large trade with his band, so
he consented to hang the prisoner, and prepared a
rope for that purpose. When all was ready Mr.
Walker said to young Senachwine that in a few
months all the Indians of the different bands
268 FRENCH AND INDIANS OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
would be in Chicago to receive their annuities,
and to prevent crime among tribes it would be
better to hang him there publicly. But, said Mr.
Walker, " I will hang the culprit now if you in¬
sist upon it." After some consideration the chief
concluded to postpone the hanging until the
meeting in Chicago, but before the time arrived
the matter was settled among themselves, and
Walker was not called on the second time to
hang the murderer.
In the tall of 1841, ten years after the death
of Senachwine, a lone Indian riding a jaded pony
was seen on Green river, and for a few days was
the guest of a half-breed by the name of Battis.
This Indian, whose manly form, once the pride
of his band, was now bent and palsied—not by
age, for he was still in middle life, but by dissi¬
pation and disease. This Indian was Kaltoo, or
young Senachwine of former days, whose hand¬
some form and stately mien is still fresh in the
minds of some of the few traders.
Kalto being afflicted with an incurable disease,
and knowing that his end was nigh, left his home
on Kansas river and alone visited this country in
order that he once more might look on the haunts
of Iiis youth, and the grave of his father.
FUR TRADERS.
The fur trade on the Illinois river is so closely
FUB TBADER8.
269
connected with the French and Indians, that
these sketches would not be complete without
further allusion to it. For one hundred and
thirty years, the French had undisputed control
of the fur trade, and to them it was a great source
of wealth. After the French were driven away
from Peoria, there was but little trade on the
Illinois river for the four succeeding years. The
Indians in order to dispose of their furs, were
obliged to carry them either to St. Louis or
Chicago. At the latter place, a Frenchman by
the name of DuPin, occupied Kinzie's dwelling,
and for about four years carried on an extensive
trade with the Indians.
In the year 1816, the American Fur Company
established trading posts along the Illinois river,
and monopolized the trade with the Indians for
a number of years. One of these trading posts
was near the mouth of the Kankakee river, one
opposite the mouth of Bureau creek, and another
a few miles below Peoria lake, at a place now
called Wesley. This place originally was called
Opa by the French, but afterwards known as the
"Trading House," and for many years it was
kept by a Frenchman, named Bessou.
Antoine Des Champs, a Canadian Frenchman,
long a resident of Peoria, but afterwards of Ca-
hokia, was the first general agentol the American
270 FRENCH AND INDIAN8 OF ILLINOIS RIVER.
Fur Company, and was succeeded by Gerden S.
Hubbard. This company shipped their furs and
pelts to St. Louis, in . small Mackinaw boats called
bateau, and by the same means brought goods up
the river to supply the different trading posts.
"When emigrants came westward and settled on
the Illinois river, it caused competition in the fur
trade, and a few years later independent traders
done the business of the country. Peter Menard
established trading houses at different places in
the Pottawatomie country ; John Hamlin, one at
Peoria ; Thomas Hartzell, at Hennepin ; Simon
Crozier, at the mouth of Big Vermillion, and
George E. Walker, at Ottawa.