A History of Oregon, 1792-1849: Drawn From Personal Observation and Authentic InformationGray, W. H. (William Henry)
History
A History of Oregon, 1792-1849: Drawn From Personal Observation and Authentic Information
Gray, W. H. (William Henry)
Frontier and pioneer life -- Oregon; Oregon Territory -- History
Dr. ELIJAH WHITE,
Sub-Agent of Indian Affairs west of Rocky Mountains.
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DEPARTMENT OF WAR,}
OFFICE OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, Nov. 24, 1845.}
* * * * *
Two interesting and very instructive reports have been received from the
sub-agent west of the Rocky Mountains. They present that country in a
new and important light to the consideration of the public.
The advancement in civilization by the numerous tribes of Indians in
that remote and hitherto neglected portion of our territory, with so
few advantages, is a matter of surprise. Indeed, the red men of that
region would almost seem to be of a different order from those with whom
we have been in more familiar intercourse. A few years since the face of
a white man was almost unknown to them; now, through the benevolent
policy of the various Christian churches, and the indefatigable
exertions of the missionaries in their employ, they have prescribed and
well adapted rules for their government, which are observed and
respected to a degree worthy the most intelligent whites.
Numerous schools have grown up in their midst, at which their children
are acquiring the most important and useful information. They have
already advanced to a degree of civilization that promises the most
beneficial results to them and their brethren on this side of the
mountains, with whom they may, and no doubt will at some future period,
be brought into intercourse. They are turning their attention to
agricultural pursuits, and with but few of the necessary utensils in
their possession, already produce sufficient in some places to meet
their every want.
Among some of the tribes, hunting has been almost entirely abandoned,
many individuals looking wholly to the soil for support. The lands are
represented as extremely fertile, and the climate healthy, agreeable,
and uniform.
Under these circumstances, so promising in their consequences, and
grateful to the feelings of the philanthropist, it would seem to be the
duty of the government of the United States to encourage their
advancement, and still further aid their progress in the path of
civilization. I therefore respectfully recommend the establishment among
them of a full agency, with power to the President to make it an acting
superintendency; and to appoint one or more sub-agents, whenever, in his
judgment, the same may become necessary and proper.
All which is respectfully submitted.
W. MEDILL.
Hon. WM. L. MARCY,
Secretary of War.
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