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Day-by-Day
The 1832 annuity register was penned at the culmination of a dramatic year of upheaval in HoocÄ…k history and just prior to the commencement of drastic and hotly contested change over the following season. Place the census in context by tracing the story day-by-day from 1832 to 1833.
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*Please note that these day-by-day entries are best viewed in a desktop browser.
Day-by-Day
-1832-
Day-by-Day
-1833-
The year 1833 saw the launch of the first efforts to expel the HoocÄ…k from their homeland. The Treaty of 1832 had stipulated that the HoocÄ…k leave their land east and south of the Wisconsin River by June 1 of this year. They were afforded the choice of either removing to their remaining land north of the Wisconsin River or to the "Neutral Grounds," a strip of land originally established to separate the warring Dakota and Sauk/Meskwaki nations. The Day-By-Day for this year is rife with deep tension within the U.S. Indian Department as officials argue about how to effect this expulsion. Interspersed are strong requests from HoocÄ…k leaders for understanding and accommodation of the accumulating difficulties they find their villages experiencing. The language used in this emotionally charged atmosphere is often disturbing, yet hearing it is essential to understanding and learning from a time when the concepts of moral principles, human rights, community philosophies, and personal interests came into unusually stark contrast in every decision as the wellbeing of an entire people group rested on the line.
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**Please note that many historic quotes in the following timeline refer to the Ho-Chunk (HoocÄ…k) as the "Winnebago," a name used for the Ho-Chunk by other tribes and the U.S. Government. The word's meaning differs from the tribe's preferred name for themselves, but it refers to the same people group.
Rock River band sends memorial to Cass requesting one year's reprieve prior to removal
Jan. 1
1833
Rock River trader Stephen Mack transmits a plea from local HoocÄ…k leaders for one year’s time to recover from the winter's developing famine before fulfilling the recent treaty’s requirement that they leave their Rock River villages. Mack notes that they had fled from both Black Hawk and the military the previous summer, subsisting on roots and leaving their corn fields to plunderers; that they had signed the treaty in fear of being construed as hostile; and had to make the choice of either hunting or going to the agency for relief, as the distance prevented them from doing both. The excerpt is long, but it is a key document which places the issues of the next six months in context.
"At the earnest request of the chiefs of the Winnebago Indians residing on this River and lately assembled in council at my house, I venture to address you in their behalf and attempt to make known to you their wishes. The subject under consideration in council was the necessity of their immediate removal from this country—They profess to have acceded to and signed the late Treaty at Rock Island under the influence of fear, but they do not the less regard it as binding on them to fulfill every article contained in it— It is in part in consideration of this, but more in consideration of their destitute situation that they now and through this means humbly entreat you to grant them a respite of one year to prepare for their migration.
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"...You may think it superfluous in me to attempt to describe the situation of an Indian tribe to one who has been so conversant with their customs and manners as yourself—but sir It requires that even I, should be an eye witness to believe that human beings could endure the hardships and privations that has fallen to the lot of this poor and helpless people this season—You are aware that their country was overrun and occupied by the hostile Sacks and the Troops of the U. States during the whole of last Summer, and while they were openly plundered by one party they were suspected and threatened by the other. The result was that they fled from both and concealed them selves in the [?] of the forests and marshes of the north until the end of the war. During this time they subsisted wholly upon roots as they were afraid to leave their families unprotected while they should go in pursuit of game. When they were called upon to meet your commissioners in council at Rock Island They came from their hiding places with a timid heart and trembling step, and proceeded to make any concession that might be required of them; well knowing that a refusal on their part would be construed into an act of hostility, They therefore listened to what was said and signed what was written with little comment or reflection.
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"The means that our government have charitably supplied for their relief I am sorry to say is in a great measure ineffectual owing to the distance of the stations at which provisions are issued from the hunting grounds of the Indians and thereby obliging the Indians to abandon his hunting altogether or deprive himself of the benefit of the charity intended him.
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"In consideration of the foregoing, the said chiefs have determined to apply to you (whom they have so often met in council and in whom they have every confidence) for permission to remain one year longer in their old villages and provide corn and other necessaries for to sustain their families until they can provide means in the country to which they have to remove." —Stephen Mack on behalf of Rock River HoocÄ…k leaders
Kinzie authorized to draw relief rations from Fort commissary; Fort cannot spare amount
Jan. 8
1833
Word which had been sent two months prior finally arrives authorizing sub-agent Kinzie—in answer to his August request—to draw up to 100 barrels of pork and 150 barrels of flour from the Fort Winnebago commissary to supply needs if famine conditions progress.
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Upon making this request, Kinzie discovers that the fort commander cannot spare any substantial amount due to stores having been reduced through heavy commissary requisitions the previous summer. Reporting that the relief cannot be provided, he makes an early request for instructions on where he is supposed to draw relief from with frozen rivers and low supplies.
Street reiterates his December proposal, urging that no treaty rations be issued at Portage
Jan. 28
1833
Removed from the immediate scenes of famine, Prairie du Chien agent Joseph Street urges the government not to authorize the Fort Winnebago sub-agency to issue any of the 60,000 rations promised in the Treaty of 1832. HoocÄ…k families in his agency plan to travel to receive rations at Fort Winnebago in the spring. He believes that the government may efficiently bring about their removal only by issuing the provisions at the "Neutral Grounds" across the Mississippi. In his view, the HoocÄ…k cannot remain north of the Wisconsin River without white settlements fearing future warfare.
"Some Indians belonging to this agency informed me that they would want some part of the provisions, and that they should go to the portage in the spring. Thus, instead of aiding the removal or migration of the Indians from the east to the west, it will, for a time, draw more Indians to the east. If the rations are issued at the portage, very few will remove; but if sixty thousand rations are issued on the west of the Mississippi, numbers will migrate….If the Winnebagoes are not early induced to migrate to the west of the Mississippi, by the union of every measure upon which the Government can operate, we may again, at no distant day, calculate on a rupture with them." —Joseph Street
Gratiot requests Mounted Rangers to oversee the spring’s upcoming removal plans
Feb. 8
1833
Sub-agent Gratiot is concerned that HoocÄ…k butchering of settlers’ free ranging livestock will put them in harm’s way as edgy frontier settlers assert in the wake of the Black Hawk War that “If government will not protect them, they will protect themselves.” The HoocÄ…k continue to request information about when troops are coming in the spring as had been rumored. Gratiot requests that a substantial ranging force be stationed in the region during the spring’s removals.
Porter hears that Street is urging for trans-Mississippi removal; remonstrates against such a plan
Feb. 11
1833
Michigan Territory Indian Superintendent, Governor George Porter, hears that Street sent a letter "urging the necessity of the removal of the Winnebagoes west of the Mississippi." Porter responds that “He, or any other individual, must be ignorant of the country north of the Wisconsin, who would try to make the Secretary of War…believe that the Winnebagoes must go west of the Mississippi, to subsist." Porter urges that allowances must be made to immediately purchase corn and forward it to Fort Winnebago as the Rock and Fox River HoocÄ…k converge on the Baraboo area as removal begins.
"I am decidedly of opinion that these Winnebagoes will never go west of the Mississippi to remain, as long as they can live north of the Wisconsin. During the winter season, some of them may go there to hunt. The Sioux are averse to their going to that country; and the sacs will no doubt retaliate upon them, whenever an opportunity presents. The Winnebagoes are well aware of this, and have so stated…They were then making arrangements to move in large bodies to the Bar-ra-bo, and in that vicinity.
…The absolute necessity there is for supplying them early in the ensuing spring, with corn and provisions, is not too strongly represented by them. They could raise no corn during the past year, and they have nothing on which they can subsist. I hope this subject will claim the immediate attention of the department. The corn must be purchased at this place, or below us in Ohio, and sent up on the opening of the navigation. It must be done soon, or we cannot procure it." —George Porter
Indian Department replies to HoocÄ…k memorial sent through Mack; no extra time permitted
Feb. 13
1833
Responding to the tribe's January 1 letter via trader Stephen Mack, Commissioner Herring writes at the behest of Lewis Cass that no extra time can be offered for HoocÄ…k families to rebound from the winter’s famine prior to removal. Removal must occur by June 1. He postulates that the problems they foresee from losing the 1833 growing season are "highly exaggerated." Herring claims that if they remain longer, settlers will take possession of their land and there will be worse problems than those laid out in Mack’s letter.
"The Secretary of War instructs me to say, that he deeply commiserates the distressed condition in which the late Indian war has, in its consequences, involved them; that he entertains the kindest feeling for them, and would if in his power, grant their request. But the day for their removal having been deliberately agreed upon, and subsequently designated in the treaty, leaves him no discretion in the matter. Their departure, within the prescribed time, is, therefore, imperative upon them, and must be complied with. It is believed, however, that the disadvantages anticipated by them, from their removal by the ensuing month of June, are highly exaggerated, and cannot equal the evils that would result by deferring it for another year. Intruders in considerable numbers have, some time ago, presented themselves upon the ceded land, and the Government has already been called upon to exert its authority for their expulsion. It would be extremely difficult, if not impracticable, to keep them off for another year... Their removal, therefore, within the period prescribed, independently of treaty obligation, is dictated by sound policy... The department is anxious to afford them all reasonable facilities in effecting their removal. —Elbert Herring
Indian Department concedes that HoocÄ…k have a choice of where to relocate
Mar. 2
1833
Indian Commissioner Herring responds to Governor Porter’s February 11 letter stating that the HoocÄ…k do have a choice of whether to move across Mississippi or to their land north of the Wisconsin River. He believes that what is on hand at Fort Winnebago can ease immediate famine needs, not yet realizing that the fort commissary unable to spare the amount. Herring sends another requisition for 65 barrels pork and 40 barrels flour to Fort Winnebago. A similar letter is sent in reply to Street's repeated suggestions of forcing the matter of trans-Mississippi removal, stating that HoocÄ…k families will not be forced to make that decision, but the Indian office will keep Street's plan in mind for indirectly forcing the issue through distributing treaty rations solely west of the Mississippi.
HoocÄ…k eager for news about government intentions as spring draws closer
Mar. 2
1833
HoocÄ…k leaders are increasingly requesting information about their removal. Sub-agent Gratiot notes that "I am almost daily troubled by enquiries respecting their removal, but having received no instruction or advices on that subject can give them no answers that are satisfactory to them." Little Priest explains that during the previous fall, wampum was presented by both the Potawatomi and the Sauk. They were rejected, but as news has been sparse throughout the winter, his tribe is having a council in April.
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Sub-agent Gratiot observes that an unusually cold winter and sparse game have resulted in considerable suffering among the people around him. "They have applied to me for their seed corn, potatoes Beans and other seeds to plant in the spring, which I shall furnish unless otherwise directed."
Porter Receives Kinzie’s Letter about commissary shortage; Reiterates need for relief
Mar. 4
1833
Prior to receiving Herring’s March 2 letter, Governor Porter applies again to Indian Commissioner Herring for information about where relief is to be acquired in light of Kinzie’s discovery in January of the lack of supplies at Fort Winnebago. There is no word from contractor Dixon about the whereabouts of relief corn which the governor had suspended the previous November. “Provisions of corn must be had for them.”
"All the Indians in this section of country are actually in a state of starvation. The winter has been very unfavorable. They have had no snow, and, in consequence, have not killed deer and bear enough to support them. They have subsisted mostly on acorns during this winter. They are coming in daily for something to eat; and I have been told by a party who have just made their appearance, that two women had been left behind, unable to travel for want of food. Since my letter to you of the 31st January, Col. Cutler has examined his stores, and informs me that half of the amount of the 150 barrels of flour and 100 barrels pork directed to be issued to the Indians by the Secretary of War, can be spared. I have already made issues to them, and will render them all the aid in my power to relieve their wretched condition." —John H. Kinzie
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"What we had long anticipated of the sufferings of the Indians began to manifest itself as the spring drew on. Its extent was first brought to our knowledge by those who came in little parties begging for food. As long as it was possible to issue occasional rations their Father continued to do so, but the supplies in the Commissary Department were now so much reduced that Colonel Cutler did not feel justified in authorizing anything beyond a scanty relief, and this only in extreme cases.
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"We had ourselves throughout the winter used the greatest economy with our own stores...but as we had continued to give to party after party, when they would come to us to represent their famishing condition, the time at length arrived when we had nothing to give. The half-breed families of the neighborhood, who had, like ourselves, continued to share with the needy...often came to lament with us over the sad accounts that were brought from the wintering grounds...We heard of their dying by companies from mere inanition, and lying stretched in the road to the Portage, whither they were striving to drag their exhausted frames. Soups made of the bark of the slippery elm, or stewed acorns, were the only food that many had subsisted on for weeks." —Juliette Kinzie
Rumors seeded that HoocÄ…k going to war; HoocÄ…k terrified of Dodge's intentions
Mar. 22
1833
Rumors have been spread among HoocÄ…k populace that a body of mounted rangers under Henry Dodge is being formed to exterminate their people. Many visit Kinzie's sub-agency to reassure him of their friendship and voice their great alarm at false reports which are circulating among the whites that they wish to go to war. Sub-agent Kinzie reports to Indian Commissioner Herring that he believes that these planted reports are intended to prejudice the whites against the HoocÄ…k. Kinzie soon after writes an editorial to calm fears in the mining settlements.
"Many statements have been circulated by the 'Galenian,' and one or two other papers, relating to the hostile intentions of the Winnebago, Potawatamie and other tribes of Indians, calculated to prejudice the minds of the whites against those Indians, if not, to create new disturbances.
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"...I have just returned from an excursion to Chicago, Ills, and have travelled through the Winnebago and Potawatamie country. From my own personal knowledge of the present feelings of those Indians, and the assurances of most of the respectable traders among them, I can confidently state, that there is not the least ground for suspicion or alarm...The Winnebagoes under this sub-agency feel much alarmed at the false reports in circulation by our people. They have been made to understand that the new corps of Rangers, under Maj. Dodge, has been organized purposely for their extermination. They come to me every day to hear the news, and to re-iterate their wish to continue at peace." —John H. Kinzie
HoocÄ…k of Green Lake and Lake Winnebago petition to remain in their villages until autumn
Mar. 27
1833
HoocÄ…k representatives from Green Lake and Lake Winnebago meet in council with sub-agent Kinzie at Fort Winnebago. They are in a starving condition and request to plant their corn in their villages to provide sustenance during their relocation which they promise to complete after harvest. Kinzie records their words and forwards their request to governor Porter.
"SIR: I have had a talk to day with some of the chiefs and head men of the Winnebagoes who reside south of Fox River, upon the subject of their having to remove from their villages on the 1st of June next. They are very anxious to get permission from their great father, the President, to remain there for this summer. They have presented me with a pipe for their great father, with these words:
…Tell our great father how we have suffered this past winter. He has taken pity on our women and children already, in supplying us occasionally with something to eat. We want him to continue good to us, and to permit us to cultivate our fields once more this summer, and it is all we ask. We wish to be better off next winter. We have not prepared now for a move. We have nothing to break up our land, and to make it good to plant our corn. The help which our great father is to give us will come too late for the time of sowing. Our old fields are ready made, and we wish to raise corn enough this year to last our women and children all next winter and part of next summer. Tell him we speak strong, and we want him to think strong, for our poor women and children. Our wish is for peace. If our great father cannot grant our request we will then move. Our families will then have to suffer, and we will be miserable for a great while." —HoocÄ…k of Green Lake and Lake Winnebago
Herring issues orders: HoocÄ…k must relocate by Jun. 1; No substantial treaty relief to Portage
Mar. 30
1833
Indian Commissioner Herring issues orders that HoocÄ…k families must relocate by June 1 as per treaty. General Dodge’s mounted force is instructed to ensure the ensuing spring’s removal. Treaty rations will be only distributed to those who relocate across the Mississippi to ensure compliance with government wishes, even though the treaty equally allows them to emigrate north of the Wisconsin River. No substantial rations will be authorized at Fort Winnebago, instead being issued 200 miles away on the Mississippi.
"He [William Clark] has been instructed to cause all, or nearly all, the provisions to be issued at Prairie du Chien; but he has been authorized to issue a small quantity at Fort Winnebago, should he find it necessary for the purposes of emigration; confining his issues, however, exclusively to the emigrants removing west of the Mississippi. As it is doubtful whether any provision should be delivered to the latter place, and as it is not considered worth while to divide the duty and the appropriation.
"Instructions have been given to Gen. Dodge, and to the officer commanding at Prairie du Chien, to co-operate with the officers of the Indian department, in the necessary measures to obtain the removal of the Indians. …I trust it will be performed without the application of force. Should force, however, be absolutely necessary, it will be applied, though with as much moderation as possible. It is very desirable that these Indians should go west of the Mississippi, and they will be urged to do so. But should they absolutely decline, and insist upon settling upon their country north of the Ousisconsin, those of them who exhibit this disposition must be indulged." —Elbert Herring
Whirling Thunder and Little Priest apprise Gratiot that a tribal council will be convened in April
Apr. 1
1833
Whirling Thunder and Little Priest inform Rock River sub-agent Gratiot that there will be an important tribal council at Turtle Village in the coming weeks. They will inform him of the result. Little Priest tells Gratiot that there was wampum passed around at the 1832 annuity payment from the Menominee, but that they did not accept the war message. Gratiot notes that settlers are greatly disconcerted about rumors of the Pottawatomi concentrating on the Rock River and suspects that perhaps the elusive council may involve negotiations to seek refuge among the Pottawatomi rather than moving across the Wisconsin River that spring. HoocÄ…k of the lower Rock River have fled upstream in an unrelated incidence of being threatened by the Sauk and Meskwaki.
Herring issues expanded copy of Mar. 30 orders to Superintendent Clark
Apr. 2
1833
Indian Commissioner Herring issues instructions to William Clark, Porter's counterpart in St. Louis, which are similar to those issued two days prior. Herring reiterates his intention to supply relief only to those removing across the Mississippi rather than north of the Wisconsin River, indicating that "it is much better to look to the country west of the Mississippi, for the final residence of these Indians, and our arrangements should be made in that expectation." He clarifies that no rations will be issued at Fort Winnebago except to those emigrating across the Mississippi. "If any considerable quantity is delivered at Fort Winnebago, the Indians will remain about there, and our object may be frustrated. Should you deem it necessary, however, you can direct the issue of a small quantity at the latter place, to aid those actually on their journey in getting as far as Prairie du Chien. A ration will consist of 18 ounces of flour, and 1 ¼ lbs. of fresh beef, or ¾ lb. of salt pork. Full rations will be issued to each individual above ten years, and half rations to those below that age."
Herring responds to Porter's Mar. 4 demand for famine relief
Apr. 3
1833
Responding to Porter's March 4 letter, Indian Commissioner Herring states that the rations already approved at the commissary will be sufficient for those who do not emigrate, ignoring Porter's and Kinzie's report that the fort did not have sufficient stocks to allow for this relief. Herring holds firm to his statement that treaty rations are meant solely for those moving from ceded lands. In a letter the day prior, Herring informs Gratiot that the treaty rations will be sufficient to resolve famine, but concedes $100 if absolutely necessary for seed corn.
Porter strongly rebuts Herring’s removal orders of March 30
Apr. 12
1833
Porter voices disagreement with Herring's March 30 orders, strongly asserting that the HoocÄ…k will be better off north of the Wisconsin River than across the Mississippi. The Dakota are unwilling for them to live at Turkey River, as are the Sauk. The HoocÄ…k intend to move en masse to the area of Baraboo. With Herring’s previous admission that HoocÄ…k could choose where to go, his new instructions have "taken me by surprise," because if it is there choice of where to remove, "is it fair to say that if you go to the one place you shall have rations, but if to the other you shall have none?" Porter reiterates that the HoocÄ…k are starving, and but contends that "I have done all I could to prevent it." He says there will be no occasion for force in removing HoocÄ…k families, nor should they be told that force will be used as a threat which could only bring about war. He further protests "the injustice" of the distribution plan for the 1832 treaty annuity.
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After sending his first letter, Porter reports just now receiving a letter from sub-agent Kinzie in which he reports that HoocÄ…k families are now in a “state of starvation.” Less than half of the government’s promised relief can be spared at the commissary. Porter states that he will of his own accord immediately send corn as soon as navigation opens to Fort Winnebago in the spring and that he was right in telling a “General Marshall” that he “could not spare any part of the $500 sent me for the relief of the Winnebagoes.”
Turtle Creek tribal council held, fear pervades region as HoocÄ…k seek plan for subsisting
Apr. 12
1833
Turtle Creek village hosts a tribal council which had been anticipated since winter. In the midst of a "medicine feast," the gathered HoocÄ…k discuss their plans for planting corn during the year with the anticipation of the June 1 removal, as well as their plans for where they will resettle. Discussions also include plans to scope out the new country of the Neutral Grounds. The Turtle Creek village has begun to plant their corn hoping that in the absence of news from the government they will be allowed to remain long enough to harvest a winter's supply of food. Potawatomi emissaries arrive with wampum and tobacco accompanied by a message that they wish the HoocÄ…k not to fight their removal, but to remain at peace. This the HoocÄ…k accepted and made clear to sub-agent Henry Gratiot. In the face of continuing false rumors, including one that 2,000 Indians were marching on Galena, Gratiot reports that an equally great fear operates among HoocÄ…k as exists in the settlements. The tribe fears reprisals and rash actions as the damaging rumors are driving the miners back to their makeshift fortifications of the previous summer and solidifying their resolve to rid the region of its Native inhabitants.
Dodge prepares for removal with mounted troops; settlers demand that there is no delay
Apr. 14
1833
Dodge believes that force must be used to ensure that the HoocÄ…k and Pottawatomi immediately leave ceded land with no delay. Settlers dislike and distrust them to such an extent that “whether the white inhabitants are in danger or not”—and then notes they are not—they must leave as stipulated with no growing season on Rock River.
"I think it important to the peace of the country that the Winnebagoes should be forced to leave the country ceded to the United States...Such is the dislike of the people of this frontier to these two nations of Indians [Pottawatomi and HoocÄ…k], and impressed, as they are, with the belief that they participated in the late war with the Sacs and Foxes, their present location will produce war between them and the United States’ troops unless they are removed. Whether the white inhabitants are in danger or not, they appear confident of the hostile dispositions of the Indians. I have seen Mr. Gratiot since my arrival. He states no danger is to be apprehended from the Winnebagoes—that they say they will not go to war with the whites, but that they wish to remain on the lands they have sold to the United States, and raise corn this year; and, when they receive their annuity this fall, they will then cross the Ouisconsin to their country. This arrangement will not suit the people of the frontiers. Nothing but the removal of the Rock River Indians will restore peace to the people of the mining country." —Henry Dodge
Herring deflects Porter's Apr. 12 rebuttal
Apr. 25
1833
Responding to Porter's rebuke, Herring asserts that the spirit of the 1832 treaty was to exchange one land for another. While they have an option, Herring says that they might as well move to Iowa since “East of that river (Mississippi) there can be no permanent abiding place for them.” He calls relocation over the Wisconsin River “a mere temporary movement” since he believes that land will also soon be ceded. In response to HoocÄ…k fears for safety in the Neutral Grounds between two hostile neighbors, Herring simply hopes it will not be an issue—that the mounted force stationed nearby will "probably have the effect of restraining hostilities among the Indian tribes."
"There cannot be a doubt that the general object of the treaty is to provide for the exchange of two different tracts of land, and for the removal of the Winnebagoes from the one to the other; and this object is in conformity with what, I am authorized to say, is the view of the President, is the true policy of the United States and of the Indians themselves. And although, as you suggest, they might as well for the present live north of the Ouisconsin as west of the Mississippi, still our whole Indian experience shows that east of that river there can be no permanent abiding place for them. When, therefore, a removal from their present residence becomes necessary, and a country certainly equal, probably superior, to that north of the Ouisconsin, is offered to them, it seems scarcely worth while to hold out inducements to them to make a mere temporary movement, which will expose them in a short time, to the same inconvenience." —Elbert Herring
Commissioner orders Kinzie to discourage HoocÄ…k from moving across the Wisconsin River
Apr. 27
1833
Indian Commissioner Herring responds to Kinzie’s March 22 letter about the destitute condition of the HoocÄ…k and false rumors pervading the region. He orders Kinzie to discourage HoocÄ…k from moving north of the Wisconsin. He may tell them that if they wish to do so, they may, but "the Government will offer them no inducements to go there; that if, however, they will remove west, on the exchange land provided for them by the treaty, they will be under the protection of the Government, have blacksmiths to work for them, and receive agricultural assistance, and schooling for their children."
Herring brushes off Kinzie’s report of suffering at the fort without help from Commissary. Although he knows that the commissary does not have the ability to afford such relief, he responds, “The department has already been apprised of the suffering condition of the Winnebagoes; and such supplies have been placed at the disposal of Governor Porter, as it is thought will be sufficient for their relief.”
Porter forwards Kinzie’s March 27 talk with the Green Lake and Lake Winnebago bands
Apr. 27
1833
Porter receives and forwards the plea of the Green Lake and Lake Winnebago bands to remain in their villages until the fall of the year so they may raise enough corn to rebound and ease the transition. He endorses their request, arguing that Green Lake and Lake Winnebago bands are sufficiently removed from settlement so that there would be no harm in fulfilling their need for time.
"There is, it seems to me, great weight in what these Indians say: that they are in a starving condition; that last year they could raise no corn because of the war; that if they remove to their new country they can raise no corn this year; but if permitted to remain on their present lands until fall, they could plant their corn, secure it in the fall, and remove comfortably and peaceably before winter would set in." —George Porter
Council convened at the Four Lakes; Request for time is rejected, logistics arranged for removal
Apr. 29
1833
A transcript of the council between Dodge, Gratiot, Kinzie, Whirling Thunder, White Crow, Little Priest, Little Black, Crane, and others is forwarded to the War Department. HoocÄ…k leaders request another growing season in their villages to ensure they would not starve during the ensuing winter. Dodge chides them for aiding Black Hawk the previous summer and states that the mounted dragoons will arrive in a few days to ensure removal by June 1. No extra time will be permitted. Relief food sufficient for the summer will be supplied. HoocÄ…k leaders assent to Dodge’s answer and note that they need help transporting their elderly and canoes overland to the Wisconsin River, and that their elderly desperately need permission to hunt small game in familiar places that winter instead of the Wisconsin River country. Kinzie’s separate cover letter endorses their requests and states that the removal must now take place as swiftly as possible. Without transportation assistance and provisions, the HoocÄ…k would not survive the summer.
"We feel anxious to hear the news; we have been looking for you a great while; we are badly situated, and wish much to hear what we are to do. It is for this reason we have come to meet you and our friends here (Mr. Gratiot and Mr. Kinzie) to hear the news...Our women have broken their hoes in digging roots, &c., to live upon. We look upon you three as our fathers. We resemble children begging of their father for something to eat. We are all very anxious to remain on our lands for this season, that we may be able to raise wherewith to keep us from starving the ensuing winter." —Whirling Thunder
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"There are four of you on whom we look to for justice. I mean Colonel Dodge, Mr. Gratiot, Mr. Kinzie, and General Street. Last summer we all met at Rock Island; I recollect what passed between us and General Scott. General Scott was sent to purchase our country; I said I had no objection. Many of my nation appeared to be dissatisfied; but that I think can easily be settled. A great deal of provisions has been promised to us, a part only has been delivered to us. If we were well supplied with provisions, we would not think it hard to remove from our country, but we know we will suffer; and it is for this reason we should like much to remain, for this season, in this country. I have nothing more to say. When you (General Dodge) left last fall, to see our great father, we were in hopes you would bring us good news when you returned, and that we would be permitted, by our great father, to remain on our lands another season." —White Crow
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"I hope you will all take pity upon us, and that we may be permitted to remain a little while longer on our lands." —White Breast
"I think as the others do who have just spoken. I hope you will take pity on our women and children. We wish to remain here another season." —Crane
Dragoon Ranger Colonel Dodge reports his plan for the removal drive
May 3
1833
Dodge formulates a plan for HoocÄ…k expulsion. In a show-of-force response to rumors of HoocÄ…k and Pottowatomi attacks, Dodge orders Backus' and Brown’s mounted Ranger companies to march to the Rock River region at Hennepin. He meets with Gratiot and Kinzie who assure him that there is no cause for alarm. He encloses the transcript of a council held with HoocÄ…k Rock River leaders and reports that Rock River chiefs indicate a great unwillingness to leave their ceded country. Dodge claims to not understand where their “sulkiness of disposition” comes from and hopes the two Ranger companies will be sufficient for the removal. He expects that the chiefs may leave, but that the majority will not willingly depart. Dodge plans to call a second council as the means of launching the removal campaign.
Secretary of War repeats to Porter that no extra time will be allowed for removal
May 6
1833
In the face of Porter's continued resistance to Herring's removal plan, Herring, at the instruction of Secretary of War Lewis Cass, responds to Porter's cover letter for Kinzie's March 27 council with the Green Lake and Lake Winnebago leaders. No extra time will be allowed for HoocÄ…k families to relocate. Due to the success of unfounded rumors stoking fear of the tribe's intentions, he contends that public opinion now requires strict fulfillment of the treaty. "Their request to remain on the land, until the fall of the year, cannot be complied with. The inhabitants of the adjoining country have called for the performance of the treaty stipulation in that particular, and peremptory orders have been given for their removal by the first of June. The department cannot feel itself authorized to countermand those orders." Three days later, a second letter was sent to reinforce this point using Henry Dodge's April 28 memorandum: "The inhabitants consider themselves not entirely free from danger while the Indians remain on the ceded country; and believe that at the time they leave the ceded country there may be trouble with them, or perhaps war."
Secretary of War requests that Kinzie make his "best effort" to effect expulsion by June 1
May 10
1833
Secretary of War Cass requests that the previous days' letters be forwarded directly to sub-agent Kinzie. The desire to complete the HoocÄ…k removal from ceded lands by June 1 is reiterated. Cass requests that Kinzie use his best efforts to ensure that this occurs.
REMOVAL BEGINS AT FOUR LAKES
May 15
1833
Sub-agent Gratiot arrives at Four Lakes to superintend the beginning of the area’s removal. The village fires were symbolically put out and over 30 lodges crossed the 12-mile Four Lakes portage to the Wisconsin River. Gratiot proceeds with HoocÄ…k leaders to regional villages to superintend the expulsion. "Confidential men" are placed to gain intelligence of any possible resistance. The Rock River HoocÄ…k largely complete their journey upon crossing to the Sauk Prairie where they knew there were fallow corn fields from the previous century which they could restart more quickly.
"The principal men and thirty lodges crossed at this time. Man Eater and his party were up Rock River, and are, as I am informed, now at Fort Winnebago, and will, I presume, make arrangements for crossing from there… At present, they are determined to go no further than the north bank of the Ouisconsin, and will make their village at a place called the Sac Prairie, where there was formerly an Indian field. One great object of the Indians, since they had to remove this season, was to do so as soon as possible, that they might make their fields and plant their seed; and we agreed to furnish them with the means, for the double purpose of accommodating them, and taking them when they intimated a wish to go… On the eve of their departure, they extinguished all their old fires, and kindled a new one, procured by the friction of two sticks of wood, which they 'hoped would burn clear and make them happy.'" —Henry Gratiot
Kinzie reports that the vast majority have now moved across the Wisconsin River without force
May 29
1833
Kinzie reports that the lion's share of the Rock and Fox River bands have complied with the deadline which had been set for their expulsion. The entire operation was completed without direct force up to this point. Dodge will now begin to use physical force to drive stragglers from ceded land. The Fox River HoocÄ…k had moved to Baraboo, the Wisconsin Dells, and the north fork of the Fox River, while the Rock River band had largely relocated to the area between Prairie du Sac and Baraboo.
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Kinzie suggests that if the War Department had realized the intentions of the HoocÄ…k not to risk themselves in the unstable Neutral Territory, treaty relief would have been distributed differently. With the addition of illegal miners flocking to Dubuque, Kinzie concurs that they are safer north of the Wisconsin, suspecting that they will go across to the neutral ground to hunt, but never to live by choice. Kinzie concludes that if relief is sent only to Prairie du Chien, the majority of the nation will suffer, having to choose whether to relinquish their rightful relief or lose their summer's harvest while traveling.
"They will never go west of the Mississippi to reside. A part of them only will resort to that country during the winter season, to make their winter hunts, and retire in the spring. I think it best that they should remain north of the Ouisconsin, for this reason; our citizens are flocking to the Dubuque’s mines and vicinity, and if the Winnebagoes remove to their land west of the Mississippi, it will be placing them in the same relation to the miners that they heretofore have been. Their contiguity to the Sacs who are unfriendly to them, would tend to create constant disturbances. By being north of the Ouisconsin, they will be away from any white population, and from any tribe of Indians to incite them to mischief. Should the present arrangement not be changed with regard to provisions, the Indians in this vicinity will suffer much. It is not to be expected that they will go all the way to Prairie du Chien for provisions. If they should, they will be under the necessity of abandoning their cornfields.
I understand that there still remain on head of Rock River a few families. They will no doubt leave that country as soon as they learn that force will be resorted to." —John H. Kinzie
Superintendent Clark halts trans-Mississippi distributions, redirects to Fort Winnebago
Jun. 12-15
1833
Western Indian Superintendent William Clark reports that he will halt all treaty operations for trans-Mississippi HoocÄ…k, having heard that they had largely moved across the Wisconsin River instead of to the Neutral Ground. Disregarding Herring's instructions to manipulate rations to force the issue, he determines to also redistribute financial compensation to reflect the proportionally larger population in the vicinity of the Fort Winnebago agency. Two days later, he adds the suggestion that a location on the east side of the Mississippi near Prairie du Chien be chosen for the planned treaty-stipulated school. He contends that all promised removal provisions should be sent to Fort Winnebago.
Herring receives Kinzie's May 29 report; Halts all treaty-stipulated relief to Rock River band
Jun. 27
1833
Herring acknowledges that the HoocÄ…k chose to move north of the Wisconsin River despite the wishes of the War Department. He places on complete hold the fulfillment of those treaty stipulations which he believes to be location-specific, including relief rations which both HoocÄ…k leaders and their sub-agents believed was owed to the tribe regardless of where they chose to move. Rations are not to be delivered unless absolutely required due to famine.
Early annuity payment held at Fort Winnebago
Late June
1833
Kinzie arranges a non-traditional early annuity payment as a result of previous discussions that an early payment would ease hardship for those being expelled from ceded territory. Due to mis-appropriation of the 1832 treaty's annuity funds to the wrong superintendency, the HoocÄ…k receive no payment for the land sold the previous autumn.
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The trader who had been instrumental in spreading war rumors earlier in the spring reports that early in the winter, the HoocÄ…k were resigned to move, but then word had come that the Dakota would not allow them to move across the Mississippi. He further complains of whiskey peddlers at Fort Winnebago’s early annuity gathering and states that the HoocÄ…k must move across the Mississippi to remove themselves from these influences.
Some of those who had been rounded up by Dodge's dragoons travel to Neutral Grounds
Jul. 18
1833
Agent Street reports that between 120 and 200 HoocÄ…k from the Pine and Rock Rivers have gone across the Mississippi. He notes from talks with these people that the tribe had been told that he was the cause of the loss of their land and that they had been under the impression during the treaty of 1832 that if they did not sell their country “the whites would take it for nothing.” HoocÄ…k families worry about the Dakota but are assured by Street that if they are attacked, the military would protect them.
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Word arrives from Superintendent Clark that the 36,000 rations which he had delivered to Street in partial fulfillment of the 1832 treaty must now be forwarded to Fort Winnebago. Street remonstrates against the tribe's decision to move north of the Wisconsin River rather than across the Mississippi. He fears that war will ensue if HoocÄ…k depredate on settlers living across the Wisconsin River, and he blames traders Joseph Rolette and Pierre Pauquette for interference.
"Father, General Dodge has hunted us from lake to lake like deer; we could not hide from him; we wanted to remain where we were. We have looked at the country on the Wisconsin; it is poor, and there is not much meat and no fur skins, and there is too many Indians there already. We can’t live there; but General Dodge would not let us remain on Rock river; and when we got hungry, some of us said let us go and see this father at Prairie du Chien." —Unnamed HoocÄ…k man quoted by Joseph Street
Street reports more migrations to Neutral Grounds
Jul. 24
1833
Street reports that a total of 186 HoocÄ…k have gone to the west side of the Mississippi from Kinzie’s agency. Another similar number has emigrated from his agency. He speaks of “Winnoshuk” leading a party of 40-50, and a steady flow of others—the majority coming from the Prophet’s village, Turtle Creek, and Koshkonong.
Porter transmits Kinzie's resignation; seeks guidance on whether to hold second annuity
Aug. 3
1833
In the wake of sub-agent Kinzie's July 1 resignation from the Fort Winnebago sub-agency, Porter seeks to determine whether he should attempt to hold a second annuity payment in the fall due to the fact that the 1832 annuity had been mistakenly sent to the St. Louis Superintendency that spring. Since the 1829 annuity had already been paid at Portage, he mulls over whether he should reassemble them to receive the remainder or wait until the following year.
Street reports relief necessary to those crossing Mississippi; HoocÄ…k lose summer crop
Aug. 6
1833
Due to the inconvenient timing of their forced departure from ceded lands, Street confirms that the Rock River HoocÄ…k had lost their crops, compounding the effect of the previous year's losses. Without aid, Street now anticipates that many will suffer as they relocate.
Herring reflects on the past spring's controversies
Aug. 19
1833
Responding to Street after news arrives that Street had complained directly to Andrew Jackson about the government not pressing the issue of removing HoocÄ…k families across the Mississippi, Indian Commissioner Herring lays out the spring's controversies, noting that while he agrees with Street, the situation's realities, as well as the resistance of other individuals within the superintendency, had resulted in the current situation.
"I believed, and do yet believe that the Winnebagoes should have retired across the Mississippi, and permanently established themselves in their new country, and this, I believe, was contemplated by the treaty. With these views, the instructions for the payment of the annuities, and for the performance of the other stipulations were made. Governor Porter, who was then at Fort Winnebago, had interviews with the chiefs, and did not think the arrangement just in itself, or just to them. There was much correspondence on the subject, but the department did not finally alter its views. I state these circumstances, that you may see the subject has been well considered, and that the opinions which you advance are those which have been acted upon here." —George Porter
Street tours the Neutral Grounds; reports tension between HoocÄ…k and neighboring Dakota
Oct. 1
1833
Agent Joseph Street accompanies surveyors to examine Turkey River country, stating that the area's abundance of game and resources was satisfactory. He reports complaints from the Dakota that HoocÄ…k hunters are crossing over into their land from these Neutral Grounds, confirming inter-tribal tension which had been feared. Street transmits the names of the HoocÄ…k families who have crossed over.
Plan reinstated to "lure" HoocÄ…k across the Mississippi
Nov. 25
1833
Herring informs Superintendent Clark that plans to construct the school promised in the treaty of 1832 which had been suspended when the HoocÄ…k chose not to move across the Mississippi should be reinstated in full force. Herring orders that a school is to be built on the Mississippi, explaining that "it is important to offer them whatever inducements the Government can consistently present, to lure them from the north of the Ouisconsin to the more advantageous position on the west of the Mississippi."
Stage Set for Future
By the fall of 1833, rhetoric abounded in Indian Department memorandums indicating that the HoocÄ…k would not own any land in Wisconsin in the not-too-distant future. In speaking of a related issue, special Indian Commissioner Schermerhorn stated "It is...to be remarked, that the Ouisconsin and Fox rivers, and Green Bay, is one of the great natural channels of communication between the lakes and the Upper Mississippi; and from the enterprise of our citizens, there is no doubt the southern bank of this great thoroughfare will soon be settled by our people. With these facts before us, I ask what rational probability is there...that they [speaking of another Wisconsin tribe in a similar situation] will long enjoy the undisturbed possession of this country? If it is an eligible one for settlement (and I believe it is), and our citizens occupy the south bank of the river, they will not rest until they own the north bank also…”
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Nor was the Neutral Grounds of Iowa situated to provide a lasting home. As sub-agent Kinzie had noted in the year's flurry of correspondence, settlers were flocking to the Dubuque mines just south of the Neutral Grounds, portending to quickly place HoocÄ…k families back in the same pressured circumstances from which they had just been expelled. Already the year prior, miners had poured illegally into recently-ceded Sauk land on the Iowa shore. The arguments, events, and results of the pivotal years 1832 and 1833 would successively be replayed further and further west as HoocÄ…k families sojourned through multiple forced removals. We must not forget, however, the big picture, for even in the midst of great hardship, HoocÄ…k families persevered, and their stories continue today.