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Letter from James Seagrove to Georgia Governor Telfair regarding Georgia inhabitant resistance toward his efforts to meet with Creek leadership

From Ft Fidius on the Oconee River, Seagrove describes the Georgia inhabitants as being violently against peace with the Creek Nation. Notes that parties of militia are kept out to intercept Seagrove if he attempts to enter the Creek Nation. Describes a scene at Long Bluff whereby some Indians were attacked by Captain Stokes of the militia, an affair which has kept the Indians from coming forward to meet Seagrove. Seagrove fears for the safety of the messengers he is using to attempt to make contact with the Creeks. Seagrove reports that spies watch his movements; insolent threats common. Suggests that expedition of Georgia volunteers, commanded by Colonels Alexander Lamar and Melton, will attempt to disrupt contact with friendly chiefs. Raises the question as to under whose authority this party has been raised. Comments that he sees no opposition by the Georgia government against these unwarrantable proceedings by frontier settlers. As long as this goes on, Seagrove believes it highly imprudent to attempt to go into the Creek Nation. The Georgia settlers would likely disrupt the proceedings. Creeks cannot discriminate state from federal government behaviors. Notes the pointed disrespect by the settlers of the upper country to every person in the immediate service of the general government. Seagrove suggests that people of Georgia are like no other states in the Union with regard to Indian Wars, and believes that there are deep designs and unfair doings in this business. Seagrove suggests that any request from Governor Telfair for support against the militia would received little attention. He praises the efforts of Colonel Gaither. Suggests that Gaither has is the victim of false and malicious statements by Captain Mc Lean and Mr Minor. Indian situation appears quiet. Refers to statement by James Aiken and his confrontation with Georgia settlers and Lieutenant Sedgewick, Commander at Ft. Matthews, report that Georgia militia officer Captain Williamson and a troop of horse, went toward Oakmulgee to intercept Seagrove. Points out that these are the same militia called out by Governor Telfair for the protection of the frontier. Note: 22 September, Seagrove reports no new information. Captain Williamson advanced as far as Apalachee. After dissension with his men, they drew back. Indians are generally ddisturbed and are losing confidence in Seagrove, and Federal Government declarations of peace. Peace will not occur as long as the militia is allowed to act as they do. Note: 22 September, 2 pm, Telfair reports the Indians seek peace; no obstacles but the refractory people of frontier. Believes the Spaniards have changed their style of talking with Creeks and has asked Governor Telfair to take action to prevent Georgia settlers from crossing the boundary line Post Script: Cherokees calling upon Creeks for general war against whites because of iHanging Maw incident against Cherokees in Governor Blount's territory

Letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox on Indian theft and murder

Major Gaither reports from Fort Fidius that white inhabitants are alarmed by Indians; gives account of stolen horses and murder of a family of six and the son of Mr Pere. Is receiving requests by inhabitants to call out the militia.

State of Alarm Among Inhabitants of Georgia Frontier, Etc.

From Fort Fidius, Major Gaither reports many of inhabitants have left their homes; some have built forts on their soil. Gaither has furnished many with arms; militia Generals have ordered rations. Federal contractor issuing about 2000 rations per day to militia. Male negroes and some of their families included in the ration returns. Major Habersham asked that Gaither certify these issues. Gaither refused because he expects great abuses in this business and does not know whether it will be a state or general [federal] charge. Georgia Governor Telfair will form an encampment at the mouth of Shoulder Bone on the Oconee, about 20 miles above. Telfair plans to advance into Indian country with volunteers. Gaither laments he is in a disagreeable situation because the people think he has the power to call the militia into service and protect them. Gaither notes that he cares not what the people think as long as Knox approves of his performance. If not, he asks to be relieved as early as may be convenient.

Letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox regarding murder and robbery at Traders Hill on St Marys

Gaither writes from Fort Fidius to inform Knox about the robbery and murder of two whites at Traders Hill on St Marys by Creek Indians. Notes the William Seagrove, presumably owner of the store, is demanding the murderers and the whole party concerned; the Indians are divided over the demand made by Seagrove. Timothy Bernard advises Gaither to stand his guard. Gaither has written to General Clark and other militia officers.

Letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox on the robbery and murder at Traders Hill St Marys

Recounting murder and robbery at Traders Hill St Marys, Gaither notes that Indian Agent James Seagrove demands murderers and all involved. This demand is dividing the Creek nation. Timothy Bernard advises Gaither to stay on guard. Gaither has written to General Clark and other militia officers. Encloses Bernard's letter.

Report from Major Henry Gaither to Henry Knox Secretary of War on Georgia Militia efforts to intercept James Seagrove Creek Indian Agent

While riding with James Seagrove, received information of efforts to disrupt Seagrove's attempt to meet with Creek Nation. Reports that both Colonel Alexander with about 100 men, and Captain Charles Williamson, with his troop, attemted to cross the Oconee to intercept Seagrove. Intent is to intercept dispatches and attack friendly Indians. Gaither notes that these are same militia who expect to be paid by United States. Says he will not muster militia unless he verifies that they have been called by proper authority of United States. Praises Captain Freemand and Mr Whitney for their assistance. Gaither notes that he has requested that Georgia Governor Telfair call out 100 infantry and 100 cavalry to be placed under Gaither's command.

Simmons Corrects Gaither's Accounts Due the United States

Simmons believes there to be a balance owed the United States in the amount of $3841.47, while Lt. Col. Gaither believes it to be $4322. Simmons states that the difference is likely from the lack of receipts for money paid by Gaither to sundry commissioned and non-commissioned officers. Simmons notes that the sums which had been deducted for contingency expenses are unauthorized by any law or regulations and thus cannot be credited back to Gaither. In addition to the amount of money already stated by Simmons, Gaither, as per Warrant No. 5234 issued by the Secretary of War, is also responsible for the payment of a bill of exchange worth an additional $1233.53; thus, the sum total due the United States from Gaither is $5075.

Letter from Captain Constant Freeman to Secretary of War Henry Knox on renewed prospects for peace with the Creek Nation, inability to receive returns on militia numbers from Governor Telfair's, discrepencies in authorized militia strength and Federal authority to muster militia

Captain Constant Freeman reports that Timothy Barnard [Bernard] suggests renewed chances for peace with the Creek Nation. Prospect for continued peace are tenuous, as inhabitants of Georgia have crossed Oconee River for the purpose of breaking up the Creek Towns. Suggests there are Georgia militia called into service without proper authority. Has suggested Major Gaither appoint inspector to oversee musters. Despite repeated requests, cannot obtain a return of militia forces from Governor of Georgia Telfair; and no measures have been taken to comply with Federal orders to bring 100 cavalry and 100 infantry into service. Freeman expresses concern that the United States might be asked to pay for 400 to 600 men when it only ordered 200. Points out that Captain Tauche and others in Colonel Melton's expedition, were in service and expense of United States. Since the expedition was not authorized by President of United States General George Washington, asks Henry Knox for guidance on how to handle matter. Also requests guidance on the extent of Major Gaither's authority of muster Georgia militia.

Reporting on the Georgia Militia's March against Hostile Indian Towns

In this letter from Ft Fidius, Gaither reports that Georgia Militia, under leadership of Major General Twiggs and Brigadiers Irwin Clark and Blackburn with about 600 officers and men, about half mounted, marched against hostile towns, crossed the Oconee. Gaither believes current effort is to avoid the friendly towns. Gaither received answer to Seagrove's demands and sent Ensign Sedgewick with names of the six inimical towns to the General.

Request from Major Gaither to Governor Telfair to raise troops under Gaither's command for defense of Georgia

From Augusta Georgia, Major Henry Gaither expresses opinion that number of Georgia militia in service is excessive for defense of Georgia frontier. Proposes addition of 100 cavalry and 100 infantry to Federal Troops, to be placed under his command which, Gaither believes, if properly deployed, would be sufficient to guard and protect inhabitants. Notes that the above addition was ordered by President of United States General George Washington, to be raised by Telfair and put under Gaither's command. Asks for a response within 24 hours as promised by Governor.

James Seagrove report to Captain Constant Freeman on visit with Creeks, and instances of resistance to visit in Georgia countryside,

Writing from Fort Fidius, James Seagrove, Creek Indian agent, in a defiant tone, reports that he persists in his plans to meet with the Creeks, despite plans meditated for his destruction by some on the Georgia frontier. Met up with Captain Dickinson and twenty continental troops detached in order to provide security for Seagrove and his party against Georgia inhabitants. Arrived at Ft Fidius 9 September. Out in the country there is strong resistance to Seagrove's efforts to meet with Creeks. Instances of public declarations of opposition; including one instance of men appearing at Ft. Fidius forbidding anyone from visiting Creek Nation. Seagrove dispatching Aiken and the negro to meet the Indians and coordinate visit. No time for any more particulars; writing to let Freeman know what a blessed situation he is in.

Report on Creek Indian Affairs, hostility in south

Reports activity among forts in Georgia, Alabama, and Florida, between Mr. Seagrove and Major Habersham. Arrived from Fort Fidius and St. Mary's. Discusses paying the troops. Refers to James Seagrove, Creek Indian Agent, and Lieutenant Van Allen, and a doctor. Reports on Indian wish to live in peace. Mentions Wellbanks and St Augustine. Reference to General Washington talks, the Secretary of War and Major Stagg.

Raising of additional militia in Georgia, and controversy over Federal command of troops

From Fort Fidius, Gaither's correspondence includes two letters from Mr Bernard. Reports that Georgia Governor Telfair has published an order for raising 100 cavalry and 100 infantry militia, to be under Gaither's command. Gaither believes the numbers are sufficient; militia officers do not; nor are they pleased that a federal officer has command of these troops.

Extract of letter from Major Henry Gaither to Joshua Meals, Merchant, Augusta

[In quotation marks], letter from Major Gaither informs merchant Joshua Meals that Gaither will leave for the Oakmulgee next day and will need to furnish James Seagrove with a guard, pack horses and will likely have to accompany Seagrove himself in order to provide protection from several parties of militia.

Letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox expressing loyalty to Federal Government

Gaither assures Henry Knox that he will act only in accordance with the instructions of the Federal Government and suggests that Georgia Governor Telfair had no right to intimate otherwise. Expresses doubt that the Governor will raise the infantry and cavalry, despite that he was ordered to do so by Federal Government.

Report on incident between whites and Cherokees at Mr. Whitney's store at Ward's Mill, killings near Ft Matthews, calling out the militia and letter from Creeks to President

From Augusta Georgia Major Henry Gaither reports on an incident between whites and Cherokees on 25 October 1792. Approximately 8 or 9 Cherokees with family came to Mr. Whitney's store at Wards Mill to procure winter goods. Three killed and one wounded by white men. Inhabitants, fearing retribution, moved away with their families. On 1 November 1792 David McChesky and 58 men attacked Cherokee town of Chinstolee or Chinstotee and killed, burned and plundered. Incident reported at Fort Matthews, which caused more settlers to leave. Governor contacted Gaither to call out militia. Called out Captain Fauche, Captain Woods and Captain Williamson. Gaither encloses a letter from from the Upper and Lower Creeks for the President of United States General George Washington. Reports that there are 180 cavalry and 500 infantry militia in service in Georgia. Reports that Governor of Georgia plans to mobilize thousands more against the Creeks.

Detailed Instructions for Commander in Georgia to Dispose Troops to Keep Peace Between Creek Indians & Georgians

Notes that a treaty has been concluded with the Creek Indians reaffirming desires to live in friendship with the United States; however, asks Gaither to be prepared for contingencies. Says that the president has deemed it wise to have U.S. forces keep both the Georgians and the Creeks from intruding on each others' land and rights. Describes the extent of the land claim in question, and its value for agriculture and as a potential battlefield, that he may advise Gaither of where to position his troops, to cover the most vulnerable and desirable areas. Asks that Gaither both garrison certain named posts and establish others which are easily defended & supplied, are healthy for the garrison, and are situated to strike at the Indians promptly should war begin. Orders that the garrisons of existing forts in Georgia be reduced to cover these proposed posts. Should inform the provisioning contractors of the changes, so provisions continue to flow. Notes that Washington has ordered dragoons from Wayne's army to join the contingent in Georgia, to serve as patrollers. Requests that particular attention be made to secure patrols against surprise or theft of horses, as a matter of extreme import to the president. Encloses a copy [not included] of "An Act to regulate trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes and to preserve peace on the frontiers."

Extract of letter from Lieutenant Van Allen of Federal Troops to Major Henry Gaither on white efforts to justifiy incursion on Chehaws

Lieutenant Van Allen of Federal troops reports from Galphin Town on the Ogeechee River that 40-50 Georgia horse militia gathered under command of Captains Kitchen, Carson, Wilbern, and Hampton, later joined by Captains Harrison, Stokes and Irwin in order to march against Chehaw towns. To justify this act, Van Allen says he was told that horses were brought over the Oconee and then claimed as stolen. General Irwin called the men back, but he was ignored.

Letter from Timothy Barnard [Bernard] to Major Henry Gaither regarding translator Mr George Cornells, son of Joseph Cornells

Timothy Bernard, writing to Major Henry Gaither, notes that delivery of the letter is by Mr. George Cornell, son of Joseph Cornell, linguist [translator] for the United States who did business for the Mad Dog of the Tuchabatches to Cussetah, which favors the United States. Refers to the Shawnee talks; that they would bring destruction on the land. Bernard wants to acquaint Gaither with Cornell; that he is of considerable note in this country and should be well treated and will favor the United States; make sure he is not in want of provisions. The cattle which are encroaching at the forks, which are in dispute, must be driven back or there will be serious consequences; blood may be spilt. The Cussetah King says his people are not responsible for stealing horses; it must be the Coweta people. White men are threatening to kill the first Indian they find. Cussetah king asks not to let the innocent suffer. In closing, notes that at the hunting camps near Gaither are the people of this town, and those that do the mischief are from the [other?] towns.

His Warriors are Determined to Spill Human Blood

Gaither has been informed that the Half Way king and his warriors are determined to spill human blood so he has warned the militia officers of their dangerous situation so that they can be on guard.

Letter from James Seagrove to Georgia Governor Telfair regarding exchange of prisoners, prospects for peace, and expedition of Georgia militia against Creek Towns

From Ft Fidius, Seagrove informs Georgia Governor Telfair on favorable prospects for peace with Creek Nation. Good likelihood that inhabitants of Oakfuskee village will take satisfaction on Coweta horse thieves for those killed. White Lieutenant of Oakfuskees, and other principal chiefs want the prisoners sent home. Assures Telfair that equal number of white prisoners, if there exists that many, will be available for exchange. Seagrove encloses letters from Timothy Barnard describing favorable outlook for peace. Seagrove informs Telfair that Georgia militia horsemen from Washington County are out on an expedition against Creek Towns. Encloses letter from Lieutenant Van Allen of Federal Troops to Major Gaither. Admonishes Telfair that such conduct is contrary to guidance received from President of United States General George Washington.

Letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox on the robbery and murder at Traders Hill St Marys

Report, based on information from Bird King and Cussetah King, that Halfway House King and his warriors are determined to shed blood. Has informed militia officers; some have offered services and are scouting. Many fires on Indian side of Oconee. Will send spy for more information. Soldiers are healthy; received stores from Rocklanding.

Money for the pay Lt. Col. gaither's troops

Notification that the money for the pay of the troops under Gaither's command has been sent to Daniel Stevens, federal supervisor at Charleston which he is to deliver to John Habersham, acting agent of the War department for Georgia. Discusses how the pay is to be accounted. Cited in Gaither to Simmons, 06/19/1797.

Payment of debt requested

Requests that Lieut. Col. Gaither pay the money owed on his account with the War Department to John Habersham, agent of War Department. Cited in Gaither to Simmons, 06/19/1797. Cited in Simmons to Gaither, 05/11/1797.

Extract of letter from Major Henry Gaither to Secretary of War Henry Knox reporting that Governor of Georgia Telfair has improperly called up militia and in greater numbers than is necessary

Gaither reports that the Georgia militia in service has been improperly called up by the Governor of Georgia Telfair, and in excessive numbers. Gaither has proposed using the authorized federal troops to defend the frontier. If this were to prove insufficient, then he would recommend calling out the necessary numbers of militia. Because to the current arrangement, Gaither wants nothing to do with the militia, unless they can be put under his command.