HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The tract of land owned by Sir William Johnson, and called the Royal Grant, which contained nearly one hundred thousand acres of choice land, now mostly situated in the county of Herkimer, was obtained from Hendrick in the following manner.
Being at the Baronet's house (Fort Johnson) the sachem observed a new coat, richly embroidered with gold lace, which the former intended for his own person; and on entering his presence after a night's rest, he said to him, "Brother, me dream last night."
"Indeed," responded the royal agent, "and what did my red brother dream?"
"Me dream," was the chief's reply, "that this coat be mine!"
"Then," said the sagacious Irishman, "it is yours, to which you are welcome."
Soon after this interview, Sir William returned his guest's visit, and on meeting him in the morning said to him, "Brother, I dreamed last night!"
"What did my pale-faced brother dream?" interrogated the Sachem.
"I dreamed," said his guest, "that this tract of land," describing a square bounded on the south by the Mohawk, on the east by Canada creek, and on the north and west by objects familiar to them, "was all my own!"
Old Hendrick assumed a thoughtful mood, but although he saw the enormity of the request, he would not be outdone in generosity, or forfeit the friendship of the British agent, and soon responded, "Brother, the land is yours, but you must not dream again!"
The title to this land was confirmed by the British government, on which account it was called the Royal Grant. - Henry Frey Yates, Esq.
In the summer of 1754, a plan of colonial alliance was proposed in the American colonies, to resist the encroachments of the Canadian French and Indians, in furtherance of which the chiefs of the Six Nations of New York met the commissioners of the several governments at Albany on the 2d of July; when those Sachems were addressed by James De Lancey, then lieutenant governor of the colony.
Hendrick, whose speeches are said to have been correctly reported for the London Magazine, in which I find them, was the principal speaker; and as those speeches will compare for reasoning and pathos with those of modern statesmen, indeed, would not have disgraced a Demosthenes, and will serve to introduce the young reader to an almost extinct race of men, I insert them.
Abraham, Sachem of the Upper Castle of the Mohawks, rose up and said:
"Brethren, You, the governor of New York, and the commissioners of the other governments, are you ready to hear us!"
"The governor replied, they were all ready."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
"Then Hendrick, brother to the said Abraham, and a Sachem of the same castle, rose up and spake in behalf of the Six Nations as follows:"
"Brethren, just now you told us you were ready to hear us; hearken unto me."
"Brother Corlaer, (a name given to the governor of New York by the Indians long ago,) and brothers of the other governments, Saturday last you told us that you came here by order of the great king our common father, and in his name to renew the antient chain of friendship between this and the other governments on the continent, and us the Six United Nations."
"And you said also, there were then present commissioners from Massachusett's Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pensylvania, and Maryland; and that Virginia, and Carolina desired to be considered also as present."
"We rejoice that by the king's orders, we are all met here this day, and are glad to see each other face to face; we are very thankful for the same, and we look upon the governors of South Carolina and Virginia as also present." [a belt.]
"Brethren, We thank you in the most hearty manner for your condolence to us; we also condole all your relations and friends who have died since our last meeting here." [gave three strings of wampum.]
"Brethren, (holding the chain belt given by his honor and the several governors in his hand,) We return you all our grateful acknowledgements for renewing and brightening the covenant-chain."
"This belt is of very great importance to our united nations and all our allies."
"We will therefore take it to Onondago, where our council-fire always burns, and keep it so securely, that neither thunder nor lightning shall break it."
"There we will consult over it, and as we have lately added two links to it, so we will use our endeavors to add as many links more as it lies in our power."
"And we hope when we shew you this belt again, we shall give you reason to rejoice at it, by your seeing the vacancies in it filled up (referring to his honor's explanation of it in his general speech)."
"In the mean time we desire that you will strengthen yourselves, and bring as many into this covenant as you possibly can."
"We do now solemnly renew and brighten the covenant-chain with our brethren here present, and with all our other absent brethren on the continent."
"Brethren, As to the accounts you have heard of our living divided from each other, it is very true, we have several times attempted to draw off those of our brethren who are settled at Oswegatie, but in vain; for the governor of Canada is like a wicked deluding spirit; however, as you desire, we shall persist in our endeavors."
"You have asked us the reason of our living in this divided manner; the reason is, your neglecting us these three years past; (then taking a stick and throwing it behind his back)."
"You have thus thrown us behind your backs, and disregarded us; whereas, the French are subtle and vigilant people, ever using their utmost endeavors to seduce and bring our people over to them." [a belt.]
"Brethren, The encroachments of the French, and what you have said to us on that article on behalf of the king our father; as these matters were laid before us as of great importance, so we have made strict enquiry among all our people, if any of them have either sold or given the French leave to build the forts you mention, and we cannot find that either sale has been made or leave has been given; but the French have gone thither without our consent or approbation, nor ever mentioned it to us."
"Brethren, The governor of Virginia and the governor of Canada are both quarrelling about lands which belong to us, and such a quarrel as this may end in our destruction."
"They fight who shall have the land; the governors of Virginia and Pennsylvania have made paths through our country to trade, and built houses without acquainting us with it."
"They should have first asked our consent to build there, as was done when Oswego was built." [gave a belt.]
"Brethren, It is very true, as you told us, that the clouds hang heavy over us, and it is not very pleasant to look up, but we give you this belt [giving a belt] to clear away all clouds, that we may all live in bright sunshine, and keep together in strict union and friendship; then we shall become strong, and nothing can hurt us."
"Brethren, This is the antient place of treaty where the fire of friendship always used to burn, and it is now three years since we have been called to any public treaty here; 'tis true, there are commissioners here, but they have never invited us to smoke with them (by which they mean, the commissioners had never invited them to any conference), but the Indians of Canada came frequently and smoked with them, which is for the sake of their beaver, but we hate them (meaning the French Indians)."
"We have not as yet confirmed the peace with them: 'tis your fault, brethren, we are not strengthened by conquest, for we should have gone and taken Crown Point, but you hindered us."
"We had concluded to go and take it; but we were told it was too late, and that the ice would not bear us."
"Instead of this you burnt your own fort at Saraghtogee and run away from it; which was shame and a scandal to you."
"Look about your country, and see you have no fortifications about you, no not even to this city."
"'Tis but one step from Canada hither, and the French may easily come and turn you out of doors."
"Brethren, You desired us to speak from the bottom of our hearts, and we shall do it."
"Look about you, and see all these houses full of beaver, and money is all gone to Canada; likewise your powder, lead, and guns, which the French make use of at the Ohio."
"Brethren, You were desirous we should open our minds and our hearts to you; look at the French, they are men; they are fortifying every where; but we are ashamed to say it; you are like women, bare and open, without any fortifications."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
"Then Hendrick, brother to the said Abraham, and a Sachem of the same castle, rose up and spake in behalf of the Six Nations as follows:"
"Brethren, just now you told us you were ready to hear us; hearken unto me."
"Brother Corlaer, (a name given to the governor of New York by the Indians long ago,) and brothers of the other governments, Saturday last you told us that you came here by order of the great king our common father, and in his name to renew the antient chain of friendship between this and the other governments on the continent, and us the Six United Nations."
"And you said also, there were then present commissioners from Massachusett's Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pensylvania, and Maryland; and that Virginia, and Carolina desired to be considered also as present."
"We rejoice that by the king's orders, we are all met here this day, and are glad to see each other face to face; we are very thankful for the same, and we look upon the governors of South Carolina and Virginia as also present." [a belt.]
"Brethren, We thank you in the most hearty manner for your condolence to us; we also condole all your relations and friends who have died since our last meeting here." [gave three strings of wampum.]
"Brethren, (holding the chain belt given by his honor and the several governors in his hand,) We return you all our grateful acknowledgements for renewing and brightening the covenant-chain."
"This belt is of very great importance to our united nations and all our allies."
"We will therefore take it to Onondago, where our council-fire always burns, and keep it so securely, that neither thunder nor lightning shall break it."
"There we will consult over it, and as we have lately added two links to it, so we will use our endeavors to add as many links more as it lies in our power."
"And we hope when we shew you this belt again, we shall give you reason to rejoice at it, by your seeing the vacancies in it filled up (referring to his honor's explanation of it in his general speech)."
"In the mean time we desire that you will strengthen yourselves, and bring as many into this covenant as you possibly can."
"We do now solemnly renew and brighten the covenant-chain with our brethren here present, and with all our other absent brethren on the continent."
"Brethren, As to the accounts you have heard of our living divided from each other, it is very true, we have several times attempted to draw off those of our brethren who are settled at Oswegatie, but in vain; for the governor of Canada is like a wicked deluding spirit; however, as you desire, we shall persist in our endeavors."
"You have asked us the reason of our living in this divided manner; the reason is, your neglecting us these three years past; (then taking a stick and throwing it behind his back)."
"You have thus thrown us behind your backs, and disregarded us; whereas, the French are subtle and vigilant people, ever using their utmost endeavors to seduce and bring our people over to them." [a belt.]
"Brethren, The encroachments of the French, and what you have said to us on that article on behalf of the king our father; as these matters were laid before us as of great importance, so we have made strict enquiry among all our people, if any of them have either sold or given the French leave to build the forts you mention, and we cannot find that either sale has been made or leave has been given; but the French have gone thither without our consent or approbation, nor ever mentioned it to us."
"Brethren, The governor of Virginia and the governor of Canada are both quarrelling about lands which belong to us, and such a quarrel as this may end in our destruction."
"They fight who shall have the land; the governors of Virginia and Pennsylvania have made paths through our country to trade, and built houses without acquainting us with it."
"They should have first asked our consent to build there, as was done when Oswego was built." [gave a belt.]
"Brethren, It is very true, as you told us, that the clouds hang heavy over us, and it is not very pleasant to look up, but we give you this belt [giving a belt] to clear away all clouds, that we may all live in bright sunshine, and keep together in strict union and friendship; then we shall become strong, and nothing can hurt us."
"Brethren, This is the antient place of treaty where the fire of friendship always used to burn, and it is now three years since we have been called to any public treaty here; 'tis true, there are commissioners here, but they have never invited us to smoke with them (by which they mean, the commissioners had never invited them to any conference), but the Indians of Canada came frequently and smoked with them, which is for the sake of their beaver, but we hate them (meaning the French Indians)."
"We have not as yet confirmed the peace with them: 'tis your fault, brethren, we are not strengthened by conquest, for we should have gone and taken Crown Point, but you hindered us."
"We had concluded to go and take it; but we were told it was too late, and that the ice would not bear us."
"Instead of this you burnt your own fort at Saraghtogee and run away from it; which was shame and a scandal to you."
"Look about your country, and see you have no fortifications about you, no not even to this city."
"'Tis but one step from Canada hither, and the French may easily come and turn you out of doors."
"Brethren, You desired us to speak from the bottom of our hearts, and we shall do it."
"Look about you, and see all these houses full of beaver, and money is all gone to Canada; likewise your powder, lead, and guns, which the French make use of at the Ohio."
"Brethren, You were desirous we should open our minds and our hearts to you; look at the French, they are men; they are fortifying every where; but we are ashamed to say it; you are like women, bare and open, without any fortifications."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
At the close of the above speech, Abraham, a brother of Hendrick, rose up and said:
"Brethren, We should let you know what was our desire three years ago, when Col. Johnson [he was promoted to Major General in 1754] laid down the management of Indian affairs, which gave us great uneasiness; the governor then told us, (governor of New York) it was in his power to continue him, but that he would consult the council of New York; that he was going over to England, and promised to recommend our desire, that Col. Johnson should have the management of Indian affairs, to the king, that the new governor might have power to reinstate him."
"We long waited in expectation of this being done, but hearing no more of it, we embrace this opportunity of laying this belt [and gave a belt] before all our brethren here present, and desire that Col. Johnson may be reinstated and have the management of Indian affairs; for we all lived happy whilst under his management; for we love him, and he us; and he has always been our good and trusty friend."
"Brethren, I forgot something; we think our request about Col. Johnson, which governor Clinton promised to carry to the king our father, is drowned in the sea; the fire here is burnt out; and turning his face to the New York commissioners for Indian affairs in Albany there present, desired them to notice what he said."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
At the close of the above speech, Abraham, a brother of Hendrick, rose up and said:
"Brethren, We should let you know what was our desire three years ago, when Col. Johnson [he was promoted to Major General in 1754] laid down the management of Indian affairs, which gave us great uneasiness; the governor then told us, (governor of New York) it was in his power to continue him, but that he would consult the council of New York; that he was going over to England, and promised to recommend our desire, that Col. Johnson should have the management of Indian affairs, to the king, that the new governor might have power to reinstate him."
"We long waited in expectation of this being done, but hearing no more of it, we embrace this opportunity of laying this belt [and gave a belt] before all our brethren here present, and desire that Col. Johnson may be reinstated and have the management of Indian affairs; for we all lived happy whilst under his management; for we love him, and he us; and he has always been our good and trusty friend."
"Brethren, I forgot something; we think our request about Col. Johnson, which governor Clinton promised to carry to the king our father, is drowned in the sea; the fire here is burnt out; and turning his face to the New York commissioners for Indian affairs in Albany there present, desired them to notice what he said."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
On the same day, Hendrick, in the name of the Mohawks of the Upper Castle (Connejohary) in a private audience, delivered the following speech - in the presence of several sachems of each of the other nations, to the governor of New York:
"Brother, We had a message some time since to meet you at his place when the fire burns; we of Connejohary, met the messenger you sent with a letter at Col. Johnson's; and as soon as we received it we came running down, and the Six Nations are now here complete."
The Governor replied:
"Brethren of the Six Nations, you are welcome."
"I take this opportunity, now you are all together, to condole the loss in the death of your friends and relations since you last met here; and with this string of wampum I wipe away your tears, and take sorrow from your hearts, that you may open your minds and speak freely." [a string of wampum]
Hendrick continued:
"Brother, We thank you for condoling our loss; for wiping away our tears that we may speak freely; and as we do not doubt but you have lost some of your great men and friends, we give you this string of condolence in return, that it may be remove your sorrows, that we may both speak freely" [gave a string.]
Then Hendrick, addressing himself to the Six Nations, said that last year he attended Col. Johnson to Onondaga to do service to the king and their people; that Col. Johnson told them, another governor was expected soon, and they would then have an opportunity of seeing him, and laying their grievances before him.
That the new governor arrived soon after, and scarcely had they heard of his arrival, but they had an account of his death; and that now he was glad to see his honor, to whom he would declare his grievances.
"Brother, We thought you would wonder why we of Connejohary staid so long; we shall now give you the reason."
"Last summer we of Connejohary were at New York to make our complaint, and we thought then the covenant chain was broken, because we were neglected; and when you neglect business, the French take advantage of it; for they are never quiet."
"It seemed so to us, that the governor had turned his back upon the Five Nations; as if they were no more; whereas the French are doing all in their power to draw us over to them."
"We told the governor last summer, we blamed him for the neglect of the Five Nations; and at the same time we told him the French were drawing the Five Nations away to Oswegechie, owing to that neglect which might have been prevented, if proper use had been made of that warning; but now we are afraid it is too late."
"We remember how it was in former times, when we were a strong and powerful people: Col. Schuyler used frequently to come among us, and by this means we kept together."
"Brother, We, the Mohawks, are in very difficult circumstances, and are blamed for things behind our backs which we do not deserve."
"Last summer, when we went up with Col Johnson to Onandago and he made his speech to the Five Nations, the Five Nations said they liked the speech, but that the Mohawks had made it."
"We are looked upon by the nations as Col. Johnson's counsellors, and supposed to hear all the news from him which is not the case; for Col Johnson does not receive from or impart much news to us."
"This is our reason for staying behind, for if we had come first, the other nations would have said that we made the Governor's speech; and therefore, though we were resolved to come, we intended the other nations should be before us, that they might hear the Governor's speech, which we could hear afterwards."
"There are some of our people who have large open ears, and talk a little broken English and Dutch, so that they hear what is said by the Cristian settlers near them, and by this means we come to understand that we are looked upon to be a proud nation, and therefore stayed behind."
"'Tis true and known we are so; and that we, the Mohawks, are the head of all the other nations."
"Here they are, and must own it."
"But it was not out of pride we Connejoharies stayed behind; but for the reason we have already given."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
On the same day, Hendrick, in the name of the Mohawks of the Upper Castle (Connejohary) in a private audience, delivered the following speech - in the presence of several sachems of each of the other nations, to the governor of New York:
"Brother, We had a message some time since to meet you at his place when the fire burns; we of Connejohary, met the messenger you sent with a letter at Col. Johnson's; and as soon as we received it we came running down, and the Six Nations are now here complete."
The Governor replied:
"Brethren of the Six Nations, you are welcome."
"I take this opportunity, now you are all together, to condole the loss in the death of your friends and relations since you last met here; and with this string of wampum I wipe away your tears, and take sorrow from your hearts, that you may open your minds and speak freely." [a string of wampum]
Hendrick continued:
"Brother, We thank you for condoling our loss; for wiping away our tears that we may speak freely; and as we do not doubt but you have lost some of your great men and friends, we give you this string of condolence in return, that it may be remove your sorrows, that we may both speak freely" [gave a string.]
Then Hendrick, addressing himself to the Six Nations, said that last year he attended Col. Johnson to Onondaga to do service to the king and their people; that Col. Johnson told them, another governor was expected soon, and they would then have an opportunity of seeing him, and laying their grievances before him.
That the new governor arrived soon after, and scarcely had they heard of his arrival, but they had an account of his death; and that now he was glad to see his honor, to whom he would declare his grievances.
"Brother, We thought you would wonder why we of Connejohary staid so long; we shall now give you the reason."
"Last summer we of Connejohary were at New York to make our complaint, and we thought then the covenant chain was broken, because we were neglected; and when you neglect business, the French take advantage of it; for they are never quiet."
"It seemed so to us, that the governor had turned his back upon the Five Nations; as if they were no more; whereas the French are doing all in their power to draw us over to them."
"We told the governor last summer, we blamed him for the neglect of the Five Nations; and at the same time we told him the French were drawing the Five Nations away to Oswegechie, owing to that neglect which might have been prevented, if proper use had been made of that warning; but now we are afraid it is too late."
"We remember how it was in former times, when we were a strong and powerful people: Col. Schuyler used frequently to come among us, and by this means we kept together."
"Brother, We, the Mohawks, are in very difficult circumstances, and are blamed for things behind our backs which we do not deserve."
"Last summer, when we went up with Col Johnson to Onandago and he made his speech to the Five Nations, the Five Nations said they liked the speech, but that the Mohawks had made it."
"We are looked upon by the nations as Col. Johnson's counsellors, and supposed to hear all the news from him which is not the case; for Col Johnson does not receive from or impart much news to us."
"This is our reason for staying behind, for if we had come first, the other nations would have said that we made the Governor's speech; and therefore, though we were resolved to come, we intended the other nations should be before us, that they might hear the Governor's speech, which we could hear afterwards."
"There are some of our people who have large open ears, and talk a little broken English and Dutch, so that they hear what is said by the Cristian settlers near them, and by this means we come to understand that we are looked upon to be a proud nation, and therefore stayed behind."
"'Tis true and known we are so; and that we, the Mohawks, are the head of all the other nations."
"Here they are, and must own it."
"But it was not out of pride we Connejoharies stayed behind; but for the reason we have already given."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
A speaker followed Hendrick, in behalf of all the Six Nations; after expressing his joy at the renewal of the ancient covenant-chain between all his Majesty's governments on the continent and the Six Nations; for the promises on the part of the New York Governor of future protection; and the danger he thought they would be in, if Col. Johnson left off the management of Indian affairs, observing, if he fail us, we die, he alluded to what the Governor of Pennsylvania, through Mr. Weiser, his interpreter, had said on the day before, respecting a new road from Pennsylvania to Ohio.
"We thank the Governor of Virginia," said he, "for assisting the Indians at the Ohio, who are our relations and allies; and we approve of the Governor of Pennsylvania not having hitherto intermeddled in this affair."
"He is a wise and prudent man, and will know his own time."
He closed as follows:
"Brethern, We put you in mind in our former speech of the defenceless state of our frontiers, particularly of the country of Chenectady, and of the country of the Five Nations."
"You told us yesterday you were consulting about securing both yourselves and us."
"We beg you will contrive something speedily: you are not safe from danger one day."
"The French have their hatchet in their hands both at the Ohio and in two places in New England."
"We don't know but this very night they may attack us."
"One of the principal reasons why we desire you to be speedy in this matter is, that since Col. Johnson has been in this city, there has been a French Indian at his house, who took measure of the wall round it, and made a very narrow observation of every thing thereabouts."
"We think him (Col. Johnson) in very great danger, because the French will take more than ordinary pains either to kill him or take him a prisoner, upon account of his great interest among us, being also one of the Five Nation."
(Col. Johnson is one of their Sachems.)
[Gave four strings of wampum.]
The Governor replied:
"I have now done speaking to you: but before I cover up the fire I must recommend to you to behave quietly and peaceably to all your brethren and their cattle, in your return home."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
A speaker followed Hendrick, in behalf of all the Six Nations; after expressing his joy at the renewal of the ancient covenant-chain between all his Majesty's governments on the continent and the Six Nations; for the promises on the part of the New York Governor of future protection; and the danger he thought they would be in, if Col. Johnson left off the management of Indian affairs, observing, if he fail us, we die, he alluded to what the Governor of Pennsylvania, through Mr. Weiser, his interpreter, had said on the day before, respecting a new road from Pennsylvania to Ohio.
"We thank the Governor of Virginia," said he, "for assisting the Indians at the Ohio, who are our relations and allies; and we approve of the Governor of Pennsylvania not having hitherto intermeddled in this affair."
"He is a wise and prudent man, and will know his own time."
He closed as follows:
"Brethern, We put you in mind in our former speech of the defenceless state of our frontiers, particularly of the country of Chenectady, and of the country of the Five Nations."
"You told us yesterday you were consulting about securing both yourselves and us."
"We beg you will contrive something speedily: you are not safe from danger one day."
"The French have their hatchet in their hands both at the Ohio and in two places in New England."
"We don't know but this very night they may attack us."
"One of the principal reasons why we desire you to be speedy in this matter is, that since Col. Johnson has been in this city, there has been a French Indian at his house, who took measure of the wall round it, and made a very narrow observation of every thing thereabouts."
"We think him (Col. Johnson) in very great danger, because the French will take more than ordinary pains either to kill him or take him a prisoner, upon account of his great interest among us, being also one of the Five Nation."
(Col. Johnson is one of their Sachems.)
[Gave four strings of wampum.]
The Governor replied:
"I have now done speaking to you: but before I cover up the fire I must recommend to you to behave quietly and peaceably to all your brethren and their cattle, in your return home."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
Hendrick responded:-
"Your honor told us you now covered up the fires, and we are all highly pleased that all things have been so amicably settled; and hope that all that has passed between us may be strictly observed on both sides."
"Brethren of the several governments, We hope that you will not fail in the covenant-chain, wherewith we are mutually bound, and have now so solemnly renewed and strengthened; if we do not hold fast by this chain of friendship our enemies will laugh us to scorn."
"Brethren, We wish you would all contribute to make some provision for us in our return home, which will effectually prevent our people from killing the inhabitants' cattle; and we desire you will provide some wagons for us to go to Chenectady."
"We think this expense will fall too heavy upon our province, as we have the presents from all to carry up."
"We beg we may take all care of the fire of friendship, and preserve it, by our mutual attention, from further injuries."
"We will take care of it on our sides, and hope our brethren will do so on theirs."
"We wish the tree of friendship may grow up to a great height, and then we shall be a powerful people.
"We, the United Six Nations, shall rejoice in the increase of our strength, so that all other nations may stand in awe of us."
"Brethren, I will just tell you what a people we were formerly."
"If any enemies rose against us, we had no occasion to lift our whole hand against them, for our little finger was sufficient; and as we have now made so strong a confederacy, if we are truly earnest therein, we may retrieve the ancient glory of the Five Nations."
"Brethren, We have now done."
"But one word more must we add: If the French continue their hostilities, the interpreter will want assistance - three or four to be joined with him; but this matter we submit to the Governor."
"We have now fully finished all we have to say."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
Hendrick responded:-
"Your honor told us you now covered up the fires, and we are all highly pleased that all things have been so amicably settled; and hope that all that has passed between us may be strictly observed on both sides."
"Brethren of the several governments, We hope that you will not fail in the covenant-chain, wherewith we are mutually bound, and have now so solemnly renewed and strengthened; if we do not hold fast by this chain of friendship our enemies will laugh us to scorn."
"Brethren, We wish you would all contribute to make some provision for us in our return home, which will effectually prevent our people from killing the inhabitants' cattle; and we desire you will provide some wagons for us to go to Chenectady."
"We think this expense will fall too heavy upon our province, as we have the presents from all to carry up."
"We beg we may take all care of the fire of friendship, and preserve it, by our mutual attention, from further injuries."
"We will take care of it on our sides, and hope our brethren will do so on theirs."
"We wish the tree of friendship may grow up to a great height, and then we shall be a powerful people.
"We, the United Six Nations, shall rejoice in the increase of our strength, so that all other nations may stand in awe of us."
"Brethren, I will just tell you what a people we were formerly."
"If any enemies rose against us, we had no occasion to lift our whole hand against them, for our little finger was sufficient; and as we have now made so strong a confederacy, if we are truly earnest therein, we may retrieve the ancient glory of the Five Nations."
"Brethren, We have now done."
"But one word more must we add: If the French continue their hostilities, the interpreter will want assistance - three or four to be joined with him; but this matter we submit to the Governor."
"We have now fully finished all we have to say."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The following speech, delivered at the same convention by one of the River or Stockbridge Indians, is too full of figure and melancholy truth to be omitted in this place:
"Fathers, We are greatly rejoiced to see you all here; it is by the will of Heaven that we are met here, and we thank you for this opportunity of seeing you all together, as it is a long while since we had such a one."
"Fathers, who are here present, We will give you a short relation of the long friendship which has subsisted between the white people of this country and us."
"Our forefathers had a castle on the river: as one of them walked out he saw something on the river, but was at a loss to know what it was; he took it at first for a great fish; he run into the castle and gave notice to the other Indians; two of our forefathers went to see what it was, and found it a vessel with men in it; they immediately joined hands with the people in the vessel, and became friends."
"The white people told them they should not come up the river any further at that time, and said to them they would return back from whence they came, and come again in a year's time, and come as far up the river as where the old fort stood."
"Our fathers invited them ashore, and said to them 'Here we will give you a place to make you a town; it shall be from this place up to such a stream, (meaning where the petteroon mill now stands,) and from the river back up to the hill.'"
"Our forefathers told them, though they were now a small people, they would in time multiply, and fill up the land they had given them."
"After they were ashore some time, some other Indians, who had not seen them before, looked fiercely at them; and our forefathers observing it, and seeing the white people so few in number, lest they should be destroyed, took and sheltered them under their arms; but turned out that those Indians did not desire to destroy them, but wished also to have the same white people for their friends."
"At this time which we have now spoken of, the white people were small, but we were very numerous and strong; we defended them in that low state: But now the case is altered; you are numerous and strong, but we are few and weak; therefore we expect that you will act by us in these circumstances, as we did by you in those we have just now related."
"We view you now as a very large tree, which has taken deep root in the ground, whose branches are spread very wide."
"We stand by the body of the tree, and we look round to see if there be any one who endeavors to hurt it, and if it should so happen, that any are powerful enough to destroy it, we are ready to fall with it." [gave a belt]
"Fathers, you see how early we made friendship with you; we tied each other in a strong chain: That chain has not yet been broken: We now clean and rub that chain to make it brighter and stronger; and we determine on our parts that it shall never be broken; and we hope that you will take care, that neither you nor any one else shall break it; and we are greatly rejoiced, that peace and friendship have so long subsisted between us."
- Gentlemens's Magazine.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The following speech, delivered at the same convention by one of the River or Stockbridge Indians, is too full of figure and melancholy truth to be omitted in this place:
"Fathers, We are greatly rejoiced to see you all here; it is by the will of Heaven that we are met here, and we thank you for this opportunity of seeing you all together, as it is a long while since we had such a one."
"Fathers, who are here present, We will give you a short relation of the long friendship which has subsisted between the white people of this country and us."
"Our forefathers had a castle on the river: as one of them walked out he saw something on the river, but was at a loss to know what it was; he took it at first for a great fish; he run into the castle and gave notice to the other Indians; two of our forefathers went to see what it was, and found it a vessel with men in it; they immediately joined hands with the people in the vessel, and became friends."
"The white people told them they should not come up the river any further at that time, and said to them they would return back from whence they came, and come again in a year's time, and come as far up the river as where the old fort stood."
"Our fathers invited them ashore, and said to them 'Here we will give you a place to make you a town; it shall be from this place up to such a stream, (meaning where the petteroon mill now stands,) and from the river back up to the hill.'"
"Our forefathers told them, though they were now a small people, they would in time multiply, and fill up the land they had given them."
"After they were ashore some time, some other Indians, who had not seen them before, looked fiercely at them; and our forefathers observing it, and seeing the white people so few in number, lest they should be destroyed, took and sheltered them under their arms; but turned out that those Indians did not desire to destroy them, but wished also to have the same white people for their friends."
"At this time which we have now spoken of, the white people were small, but we were very numerous and strong; we defended them in that low state: But now the case is altered; you are numerous and strong, but we are few and weak; therefore we expect that you will act by us in these circumstances, as we did by you in those we have just now related."
"We view you now as a very large tree, which has taken deep root in the ground, whose branches are spread very wide."
"We stand by the body of the tree, and we look round to see if there be any one who endeavors to hurt it, and if it should so happen, that any are powerful enough to destroy it, we are ready to fall with it." [gave a belt]
"Fathers, you see how early we made friendship with you; we tied each other in a strong chain: That chain has not yet been broken: We now clean and rub that chain to make it brighter and stronger; and we determine on our parts that it shall never be broken; and we hope that you will take care, that neither you nor any one else shall break it; and we are greatly rejoiced, that peace and friendship have so long subsisted between us."
- Gentlemens's Magazine.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The three Castles of the Mohawk Nation, says Colden, were all surprised and captured by a party of six or seven hundred French and Indians, on the 8th of March, 1693.
The Lower Castle was bravely defended by the few warriors who chanced to be in it, until they were overpowered by numbers.
In the reign of Queen Anne of England, and about the year 1710, a frontier military post was established at the junction of the Schoharie and Mohawk rivers, on the east bank of the former, and near the eastern Mohawk Castle.
Captain John Scott, an English officer, erected a small fort of hewn timber at this place, and called it Fort Hunter, in honor of Robert Hunter, then governor of the colony; which fort was intended to protect the natives against the hostile French, and secure their trade.
About the same time a small church was built near the fort, and called Queen Anne's Chapel.
It was erected by the Queen, whose munificence endowed it, says Colden, "with furniture, and a valuable set of plate for the communion table."
It was a substantial stone edifice, somewhat resembling in appearance the one afterwards erected at Caughnawaga, and was for a great length of time under the management of an Episcopal Society in England, for propagating the gospel in foreign parts, which society supported a minister at this place as a missionary among the Mohawk Indians.
The entrance to the chapel was on its north side near the centre.
The pulpit, which was provided with a sounding board, stood at the west end, and directly opposite were two pews finished for the occupancy of Sir William Johnson and the minister's family; the floor of which was elevated.
Johnson's pew was also furnished with a wooden canopy.
Moveable benches served the rest of the congregation with seats.
Fort Hunter was a place of no little importance in the early history of the Mohawk valley; and at that post were doubtless planned some important enterprises against the Canadas.
Speaking of the Indian "war dances," Colden says:
"An officer of the regular troops told me, that while he was commandant of Fort Hunter, the Mohawks on one of these occasions, (that of a war dance,) told him, that they (the Indians ) expected the usual military honors as they passed the garrison."
"The men presented their pieces as the Indians passed, and the drum beat a march; and with less respect, the officer said, they would have been dissatisfied."
"The Indians passed in single row one after another, with great gravity and profound silence; and every one of them, as he passed the officer, took his gun from his shoulder, and fired into the ground near the officer's foot: They marched in this manner three or four miles from their Castle."
"The women on these occasions follow them with their old clothes, and they send back by them their finery in which they marched from the Castle."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The three Castles of the Mohawk Nation, says Colden, were all surprised and captured by a party of six or seven hundred French and Indians, on the 8th of March, 1693.
The Lower Castle was bravely defended by the few warriors who chanced to be in it, until they were overpowered by numbers.
In the reign of Queen Anne of England, and about the year 1710, a frontier military post was established at the junction of the Schoharie and Mohawk rivers, on the east bank of the former, and near the eastern Mohawk Castle.
Captain John Scott, an English officer, erected a small fort of hewn timber at this place, and called it Fort Hunter, in honor of Robert Hunter, then governor of the colony; which fort was intended to protect the natives against the hostile French, and secure their trade.
About the same time a small church was built near the fort, and called Queen Anne's Chapel.
It was erected by the Queen, whose munificence endowed it, says Colden, "with furniture, and a valuable set of plate for the communion table."
It was a substantial stone edifice, somewhat resembling in appearance the one afterwards erected at Caughnawaga, and was for a great length of time under the management of an Episcopal Society in England, for propagating the gospel in foreign parts, which society supported a minister at this place as a missionary among the Mohawk Indians.
The entrance to the chapel was on its north side near the centre.
The pulpit, which was provided with a sounding board, stood at the west end, and directly opposite were two pews finished for the occupancy of Sir William Johnson and the minister's family; the floor of which was elevated.
Johnson's pew was also furnished with a wooden canopy.
Moveable benches served the rest of the congregation with seats.
Fort Hunter was a place of no little importance in the early history of the Mohawk valley; and at that post were doubtless planned some important enterprises against the Canadas.
Speaking of the Indian "war dances," Colden says:
"An officer of the regular troops told me, that while he was commandant of Fort Hunter, the Mohawks on one of these occasions, (that of a war dance,) told him, that they (the Indians ) expected the usual military honors as they passed the garrison."
"The men presented their pieces as the Indians passed, and the drum beat a march; and with less respect, the officer said, they would have been dissatisfied."
"The Indians passed in single row one after another, with great gravity and profound silence; and every one of them, as he passed the officer, took his gun from his shoulder, and fired into the ground near the officer's foot: They marched in this manner three or four miles from their Castle."
"The women on these occasions follow them with their old clothes, and they send back by them their finery in which they marched from the Castle."
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The ruins of old Fort Hunter were torn down at the beginning of the Revolution, and the chapel enclosed by heavy palisades.
In the corners of the yard were small block houses mounting cannon.
This place, which continued to be called Fort Hunter, was garrisoned in the latter part of the war, and Capt. Tremper, from below Albany, was its commandant.
The chapel was torn down about the year 1820, to make room for the Erie canal.
Queen Anne's chapel was early provided with a small bell, which is now in use on the Academy in Johnstown.
A glebe or farm of three hundred acres of good land was attached to it, which was conveyed at some period by the natives to Dr. Barclay, and by him to the society alluded to, on their reimbursing him moneys expended upon it.
The parsonage house, said to have been built about the time the chapel was, is still standing in Florida, half a mile below the Schoharie, and a few rods south of the canal, from which it is visible.
It is a stone building, some twenty-five by thirty-five feet on the ground, two stories high, with a quadrangular roof, presents a very ancient appearance, and is possibly the oldest house west of Schenectada in the Mohawk valley.
The chapel farm was disposed of some years ago, and part of the proceeds, nearly fifteen hundred dollars, were laid out in erecting the Episcopal Church at Port Jackson, in the same town; and the residue, an equal sum, invested in the Episcopal Church of Johnstown - Spafford's Gazetteer, Peter Putman, J. L. Groat, A.. J. Comrie, and others.
The chapel parsonage at Fort Hunter, is now owned and occupied by Nicholas Reese.
The last occupant under the patronage of the Missionary Society, was the Rev. John Stuart, who was officiating there at the beginning of the revolution.
He removed, with the Indians under his charge, to Canada - they choosing to follow the fortunes of the Johnson's and Butlers.
I have in my possession a bill of sale from Mr. Stuart to John Conyn, who returned to the Mohawk after the revolution, of a male slave called Tom Dow, who went from Fort Hunter with his master to Canada.
The sale was for $275 in specie, and was dated at Montreal, November 19, 1783.
At the close of the war, Mr. Stuart settled on Grand river, and resumed his ministerial labors.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
The ruins of old Fort Hunter were torn down at the beginning of the Revolution, and the chapel enclosed by heavy palisades.
In the corners of the yard were small block houses mounting cannon.
This place, which continued to be called Fort Hunter, was garrisoned in the latter part of the war, and Capt. Tremper, from below Albany, was its commandant.
The chapel was torn down about the year 1820, to make room for the Erie canal.
Queen Anne's chapel was early provided with a small bell, which is now in use on the Academy in Johnstown.
A glebe or farm of three hundred acres of good land was attached to it, which was conveyed at some period by the natives to Dr. Barclay, and by him to the society alluded to, on their reimbursing him moneys expended upon it.
The parsonage house, said to have been built about the time the chapel was, is still standing in Florida, half a mile below the Schoharie, and a few rods south of the canal, from which it is visible.
It is a stone building, some twenty-five by thirty-five feet on the ground, two stories high, with a quadrangular roof, presents a very ancient appearance, and is possibly the oldest house west of Schenectada in the Mohawk valley.
The chapel farm was disposed of some years ago, and part of the proceeds, nearly fifteen hundred dollars, were laid out in erecting the Episcopal Church at Port Jackson, in the same town; and the residue, an equal sum, invested in the Episcopal Church of Johnstown - Spafford's Gazetteer, Peter Putman, J. L. Groat, A.. J. Comrie, and others.
The chapel parsonage at Fort Hunter, is now owned and occupied by Nicholas Reese.
The last occupant under the patronage of the Missionary Society, was the Rev. John Stuart, who was officiating there at the beginning of the revolution.
He removed, with the Indians under his charge, to Canada - they choosing to follow the fortunes of the Johnson's and Butlers.
I have in my possession a bill of sale from Mr. Stuart to John Conyn, who returned to the Mohawk after the revolution, of a male slave called Tom Dow, who went from Fort Hunter with his master to Canada.
The sale was for $275 in specie, and was dated at Montreal, November 19, 1783.
At the close of the war, Mr. Stuart settled on Grand river, and resumed his ministerial labors.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: ON THE ROOTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
HISTORY OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
In 1720, Captain Scott took a patent for the lands extending from Aurie's creek to the Yates and Fonda line, near the present village of Fultonville.
Aurie is the Dutch of Aaron, and the creek was so called after an old Indian warrior named Aaron, who lived many years in a hut which stood on the flats now owned by J. C. Yost, on the east side of the creek.
The adjoining village was named after the stream.
Early in the eighteenth century, three brothers named Quackenboss emigrated from Holland to the colony of New York; one of them locating at New York city, and the other two at Albany.
Peter, one of the latter, settled on Scott's patent, only two or three years after it was secured.
He resided near Aurie's creek at the now Leslie Voorhees' place.
Mr. Quackenboss had several children grown up when he arrived in the country, and David, his elder son, after a somewhat romantic courtship, married Miss Ann, a daughter of Captain Scott, and settled on Scott's Patent, where the Montgomery county poor house now stands.
A young officer under the command of Captain Scott, requested young Quackenboss, then in the employ of the captain, to speak a good word for him to Miss Ann, which he readily promised to do.
While extolling the good qualities of her admirer, he took occasion to suggest his partiality for herself.
The maiden, who had conceived an attachment for Quackenboss instead of the young subaltern, shrewedly asked him why he did not make advances on his own account.
He had not presumed on so advantageous a match; but the hint was sufficient to secure his fortune and happiness.
His son John, a fruit of this connection, born about the year 1725, was the first white child born on the south side of the Mohawk - west of Fort Hunter, and east of the German settlements some distance above.
Captain Scott had one son who became a general officer. - John Scott Quackenboss.
About the year 1740, a small colony consisting of sixteen families of Irish immigrants was planted, under the patronage of Wm. Johnson, afterwards baronet, on lands now owned by Henry Shelp, a few miles south-west of Fort Hunter, in the present town of Glen.
Several years after they had built themselves rude dwellings, cleared lands, planted orchards, and commenced their agricultural labors, a disturbance arose between the Indian Confederacy of New York and the Canadian Indians, which the colonists conceived endangered their domestic tranquility; in consequence of which the settlement was broken up, and the chicken-hearted pioneers, then numbering eighteen or twenty families, returned to the Emerald Isle.
Traces of their residence are visible at the present day. - John Hughes and Peter Putman.
The first merchant in the Mohawk valley west of Schenectada, was Maj. Jelles (Giles) Fonda, a son of Douw Fonda, an early settler at Caughnawaga.
For many years he carried on an extensive business for the times, at the latter place - trading with the white citizens of the valley, and the natives of western New York; the latter trade being carried on at old Fort Schuyler, now Utica; Fort Stanwix, (called in the revolution Fort Schuyler,) now Rome, and Forts Oswego, Niagara and Schlosser.
An abstract from his ledger shows an indebtedness of his customers at one time just before the revolution, amounting to over ten thousand dollars.
Many of his goods he imported directly from London.
To his Indian customers he sold blankets, trinkets, ammunition and rum; and received in return, peltries and ginseng root.
The latter was at that time an important item among the exports of what was then, Western New York; and the two named added to the article of pot-ash, almost the only commodities purchased in a foreign market.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by Jeptha R. Simms - 1845
CHAPTER IV, continued ...
In 1720, Captain Scott took a patent for the lands extending from Aurie's creek to the Yates and Fonda line, near the present village of Fultonville.
Aurie is the Dutch of Aaron, and the creek was so called after an old Indian warrior named Aaron, who lived many years in a hut which stood on the flats now owned by J. C. Yost, on the east side of the creek.
The adjoining village was named after the stream.
Early in the eighteenth century, three brothers named Quackenboss emigrated from Holland to the colony of New York; one of them locating at New York city, and the other two at Albany.
Peter, one of the latter, settled on Scott's patent, only two or three years after it was secured.
He resided near Aurie's creek at the now Leslie Voorhees' place.
Mr. Quackenboss had several children grown up when he arrived in the country, and David, his elder son, after a somewhat romantic courtship, married Miss Ann, a daughter of Captain Scott, and settled on Scott's Patent, where the Montgomery county poor house now stands.
A young officer under the command of Captain Scott, requested young Quackenboss, then in the employ of the captain, to speak a good word for him to Miss Ann, which he readily promised to do.
While extolling the good qualities of her admirer, he took occasion to suggest his partiality for herself.
The maiden, who had conceived an attachment for Quackenboss instead of the young subaltern, shrewedly asked him why he did not make advances on his own account.
He had not presumed on so advantageous a match; but the hint was sufficient to secure his fortune and happiness.
His son John, a fruit of this connection, born about the year 1725, was the first white child born on the south side of the Mohawk - west of Fort Hunter, and east of the German settlements some distance above.
Captain Scott had one son who became a general officer. - John Scott Quackenboss.
About the year 1740, a small colony consisting of sixteen families of Irish immigrants was planted, under the patronage of Wm. Johnson, afterwards baronet, on lands now owned by Henry Shelp, a few miles south-west of Fort Hunter, in the present town of Glen.
Several years after they had built themselves rude dwellings, cleared lands, planted orchards, and commenced their agricultural labors, a disturbance arose between the Indian Confederacy of New York and the Canadian Indians, which the colonists conceived endangered their domestic tranquility; in consequence of which the settlement was broken up, and the chicken-hearted pioneers, then numbering eighteen or twenty families, returned to the Emerald Isle.
Traces of their residence are visible at the present day. - John Hughes and Peter Putman.
The first merchant in the Mohawk valley west of Schenectada, was Maj. Jelles (Giles) Fonda, a son of Douw Fonda, an early settler at Caughnawaga.
For many years he carried on an extensive business for the times, at the latter place - trading with the white citizens of the valley, and the natives of western New York; the latter trade being carried on at old Fort Schuyler, now Utica; Fort Stanwix, (called in the revolution Fort Schuyler,) now Rome, and Forts Oswego, Niagara and Schlosser.
An abstract from his ledger shows an indebtedness of his customers at one time just before the revolution, amounting to over ten thousand dollars.
Many of his goods he imported directly from London.
To his Indian customers he sold blankets, trinkets, ammunition and rum; and received in return, peltries and ginseng root.
The latter was at that time an important item among the exports of what was then, Western New York; and the two named added to the article of pot-ash, almost the only commodities purchased in a foreign market.
TO BE CONTINUED ...