Modern Printed Transcription of Letter/Document

Instructions to the Governor of Territory of United States Northwest of Ohio River relative to an Indian Treaty in the Northern Department

St. Clair is instructed to examine temper of Indian Tribes in Northern Indian Department. If hostile, and if treaty is required, hold a general one with all the tribes, in conjunction with Superintendent Indian Affairs Northern Department. Purpose of treaty is to promote peace by removing causes of controversy. Do not depart from existing treaties unless change of boundary is beneficial to United States. Do not neglect any opportunity to extinguish Indian rights to westward, as far as river Mississippi. Ascertain who real headmen are and who have the greatest influence. Every exertion must be made to defeat all confederations and combinations among tribes.

1787

Instructions to the Governor of the North-West Territory, relative to and Indian Treaty in the Northern Department.

Secretary Charles Thomson

Arthur St. Clair

Northern Indian Department

Superintendent Indian Affairs Northern Department

Mississippi River

westward

Ohio River

treaty

hostile

peace

boundary

confederations

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