Lilly's Letter Collection

Letter written to John Fenton

2019-10-30T19:34:00.001-07:00

Dr. Irving A. Watson N.H. postcard 1886

2019-10-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

Do you read french? I wish I did! Very interesting old letter! Written to Monsieur Frank Lambert!

2019-10-30T19:02:00.001-07:00

1844 letter written from L. Pratt in Amherst to S. Nartshorn Pratt in Baltimore

2019-10-30T18:48:00.000-07:00

The Mountain Wave. November 4, 1898, P.3. from Marshall County Arkansas-Wife of Elisha Clark

2016-11-12T18:29:00.005-08:00

The Mountain Wave. November 4, 1898, P.3.

"A sad and shocking accident occured on Cellar creek last Sunday. The wife of Elisha Clark died Saturday morning and the funeral procession started to the cemetery Sunday morning, when on turning from the main road the wagon carrying the corpse turned over throwing the Corpse out onto the ground."

1842 Handwritten Stampless Letter Adkins Hannah Granville MA Bethlehem CT RARE

2013-02-13T17:46:00.000-08:00

Adams Pope Caroll's diploma from Brown University

2013-02-13T17:41:00.001-08:00

Library building of A & M college in Stillwater Oklahoma

2013-02-13T17:31:00.001-08:00

Fire department in Stillwater Oklahoma in early 1900's

2013-02-13T17:29:00.001-08:00

Stanley L. Smith

2013-02-13T17:26:00.001-08:00

Letter to Stanley Smith From Louis Smith

2013-02-13T17:21:00.002-08:00

3 September, 1944 Dear Stanley: I am at a total loss to understand why you haven’t written me. I feel sure that you no doubt have been busy but since I wrote you two or three letters asking questions I think you should find a little time to sit down and write. How about it? Okay that’s settled. I am still located here at Camp Wolters and am getting to wonder if I will be here for the duration. I certainly hope not. I told you in my last letter that I had been up home and had a nice visit with the folks and went out to the lake (Blackwell) three of four times but did not catch any fish. It was terribly hot up there and since I was just loafing around that made it seem much worse. I saw Dale and he was telling me about your ability as a salesman and I am quite proud of you. I did not get to see Suzanne or Margarite , as a matter of fact there were a lot of people I wanted to see for some reason or other I didn’t get around to it. I was without a car most of the time and that makes it bad. We have been working very hard down here putting in about fourteen to sixteen hours a day and with the speed marches we are taking it is beginning to tell on my feet so if they don’t ship me across soon my feet will be in such a condition that will not permit me to make even a five mile hike. We have been having much cooler weather here for the past ten days as it is rained for the past ten days as it is rained for three days and I doubt very much if we have any more of the real hot days. We started our new training cycle on the 24th of July and now after six weeks I believe we will have the best group of men of any yet. Most of them are younger and that is what makes a good soldier. We had very good luck on their range qualifying over 90% and that with three days of driving rain. Well little man I must stop and write grandmother a letter or she will disown me so in closing let me again suggest that you sit right down and write me a letter. Love to you, Louis

Letters written to Stanley Louis Smith AKA Cuilly Burdett From Father Louis Smith

2012-04-25T09:46:00.001-07:00

Monday Feb 9 1941 Dear Stanley, No I haven’t forgotten you but have been out of town for the last week. I went to Arkansas and Texas with the United States Marshal to take a load of prisoners. We drove about nine hundred miles and outside of being tired had a nice time. How are you getting along and why don’t you write more often? We have been having nice weather again here for a week but today it is getting cold again and the weather forecast is for colder and snow. What kind of weather are you having down there? Did you get over your cold and how are you feeling now? I had a nice visit with Dale the other day and we got to wondering about you. Suzan inquires about you when I see her. She is really the sweetest thing and getting cuter all the time. I am no longer working at the garage so be sure you send my mail to the house. Business as far as selling automobiles is a thing of the past so decided to take out, because there is quite a bit of expense involved in making contacts and operating a car. I haven’t anything lined up but will soon. I told Walter Creech awhile ago that I was going to write you a letter and he said “Tell Stanley hello for me.” Have you ever written Grandmother? You should do that as she is very interested in you and likes to hear from you. How did you like the stamps? Yes in my next letter I will send you a stamp for your defense book and I was very glad to hear that you were saving your money and starting a book. You know we all are going to start saving our money and buy stamps and bonds because as you already know Uncle Sam has to have and must have money to fight this war and it is up to all of us and little men like you to do your part and help all that you can. I am really proud of you for thinking about i. Well little Captain I must go and eat and will write you again soon. Your daddy, Louis Wed. Feb 18th 1941 Dear Stanley: Well “sweet pea” I was really glad to get your telegram and Caralu wrote me that she too had received one from you. It’s a great feeling of satisfaction to know that our little boy is thinking of us and remembers things like that, which makes one very proud of our little soldier. It started getting cold and snowing here yesterday and snowed all night and today it is 5 degrees above zero and I mean that is plenty cold after all the nice spring weather that we have been having. There isn’t much of anything happening here to write about as a result I am having a little difficulty thinking of what to write you. I am really proud of you in regard to the grades that you are making but think and know that if you study your spelling, you can also bring that up to a satisfactory point. Surely you haven’t forgotten how you used to study your spelling and when you did you would make a good grade. Come on captain, you can improve on that. I know that you can or I would not be mentioning it to you now. Yes I think that I should give you something for the A’s and B’s that you are getting and just as soon as I get into something, I mean a job, I will send you something. So your school is not out until the first of June. Well that is only about three and one half months away and when you are busy the time really flies by. Have you learned to dance yet? You mentioned in your last letter that you thought you were going to have a dance and I was just wondering. How much do you weigh now? Have you put on any weight or are you about the same? Write me and tell me about yourself and what you are doing. Well captain, I have to go now and get ready to go to the dentist. Dr.Buikstra is going to clean my teeth this afternoon so until the nest time, I’ll be seeing you. All of my love to a swell little soldier. Daddy Louis Dear Little Man: Payne County Motor Company letterhead Stillwater, Oklahoma May 6 1941 Dear Stanley: I have really missed you and would like to see you very much and when mother comes up be sure and come up with her. I enjoyed getting your letter very much and have been wondering why you haven’t written me more often. Yes and another thing, how do you get that way by starting off your letter to dad by asking How about my money. Well I am enclosing a check for $1.50 and that includes the interest I am getting high jacked out of. You know that the amount I borrowed was $1.00 but I don’t object too much to paying a high rate of interest to you. I am glad to hear that you like your room and also your teacher. How are your rabbits getting along? I want you to be very careful while riding your bicycle down there because there is a lot more traffic than up here where you have been doing all of your riding. Well captain I am still expecting a letter from you very soon and you had better not disappoint me. Come and see me anytime that you can. I forgot to tell mother that I hope she likes her work so you can tell her for me. Lots of love to you from your dad. Louis Payne County Motor Company letterhead Stillwater, Oklahoma May 20 1941 Dear Stanley: Say young man why haven’t you written your dad a letter? I mean you better sit down right now and do it. How are you getting along and how do you like your school? Any better now? When is your school out? I am trying to find an apartment and when I do you can come up here and stay with me for awhile. I have really been busy for the last two weeks and I think the hot weather is about to get me down. I went fishing last Sunday for about three hours and caught one fish but it was a nice big perch. If it stops raining and you get up here we will slip out and catch some fish. What do you think of that? The next time you are here I will give you some socks and that is in addition to the ones that you swiped from me when you left. It has been raining here this morning very hard and I had to Pawnee and just got back and everything is just about flooded. When you were here about ten days ago I told you that I expected about three letters from you and to date I haven’t received any. If you want me to take you down and sit on you when I next see you just continue to not write. I was expecting to see you last Saturday when mother was here but due to the fact that she was going back early she said that you could come up the next time. Well captain I am writing this during the noon hour and I have to go eat and get back. Now remember WRITE ME SOME LETTERS. Tell mother I hope she is feeling better and her side is not still bothering her. Love from your daddy. Louis

2012-04-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Donald H. Woodyard was born 8 Sep 1909 in Guthrie, Logan, Oklahoma. On 1 Aug 1943, he married Caralu Smith Burdick in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oklahoma. She was born 26 Dec 1909 in Stillwater, Payne, Oklahoma. She is the daughter of Cora Chaney Burdick and Cary Lovell. Caralu died 10 Jan 1998 at age 88 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oklahoma. Donald died 11 Jun 1996 at age 86 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oklahoma. Caralu was previously married to Louis S. Smith and of that union was born Stanley L. Smith (Later changed name to Cuilly Burdett). Caralu and Louis were married 3 Jun 1928 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Louis was born the 22 of November 1906 in Stillwater, Payne, Oklahoma.

Stanley L. Smith AKA Cuilly Burdett-Famous designer

2012-04-15T12:07:00.002-07:00

I came into possession of many, many letters given to me courtesy of a sweet woman named Mrs. Turner. Not sure if she would like me to use her first name or not. Anyhow she found them in a storage locker and passed them onto me. In these letters I was able to learn that Stanley L. Smith was born to Louis Smith who served in both the army and the navy. Stanley's mother's maiden name was Caralu Burdick and she had been first married to Louis Smith and then remarried Don Woodyard. I also learned that Stanley himself was sent to military school at a young age. Many many interesting facts were given through these letters about the war times during the World War II setting. The letters were sent to Stanley between the years 1940 and 1958.
Before his army days, Louis lived in Stillwater, Payne county, Oklahoma and worked as a salesman for the Payne County Motor Company. When the war began sales began to drop and Louis seeing all his comrades go off to war commented to his son that he could no longer ignore his own duty while all his friends were being sent to war.
Louis Smith trained at Camp Wolters in Texas while in the army and sent letters to Louis during his entire stay there. He was then sent to Camp Benning Georgia where he and Stanley were only hours apart, with Stanley serving as a cadet in the Georgia Military Academy. Soon Louis was attending Officers school in Fort Ord. California. He sends a letter on Oct 1 1945 and addresses himself as Captain Louis S. Smith 0-1310918. He sends a letter from Sapporo Japan on Sunday 25, Nov. 1945 saying "I am again in police work as I am connected with the Military Police of the 77th. Division. I am ass't Provost Marshal and will be until the first of Decemeber when I take over as Marshal as the Major is leaving for the States so I guess I'll have my hands full as we are responsible for the entire island of Hokkaido, Japan's northern most island."
Louis serves his country and then goes back to Stillwater and remarries "Mary." Louis continues school in the Military Academy and then goes to College where he bounces around schools a bit until he decides on a designing career. He ends up changing his name to Cuilly Burdett and becomes a famous interior designer. He owned his own designing business in La Jolla California. His official title was Cuilly Burdett ASID. There are many more facts and interesting things I will continue to post on this family but these were just a few tidbits to get started.

Letters written to Stanley L. Smith

2012-04-15T12:01:00.001-07:00

Monday night
December 15 1941
Dear Stanley,
Walker and III were more than pleased to get your letter, and I feel that I should devote the next two pages to apologizing for having waited so long to answer, but I won’t. I’ll just say never again will I wait so long to answer a letter from you, provided of course that you write us again. Your letter and my stationary have been laying on top of my desk for over a month and everyday I’d think that I’d get a chance to write to you but wouldn’t, but would think “well tomorrow I certainly will.” I was delighted to hear that you like your school so well. Sharon is fine and she still talks about Oklahoma, and the people (you among others) that she saw there. She talks from morning until night. She knows and sings a dozen and a halg songs and knows scores of nursery rhymes. She has been calling everyone and everything “dear”now for days, and just when I thought I couldn’t stand it another day, today being that day, tonight she called me “honey” for the first time and she called me that three times in one minute. If there is anything I think is worse than honey I have forgotten what it is.
Walker was all worn out, so last Friday morning he caught a plane out of here for Texas. He had been invited to the ranch of friends of ours to go deer hunting so he has gone. He will get back just a couple days before Christmas . And speaking of Christmas I don’t know when your Christmas vacation starts, but I figure surely not before this letter reaches you. At any rate I hope not. I know that you will be glad to get away though. When you get back write me again, and tell me more about your school, what kind of grades you are making etc. etc. You say you like the school and I say good. I am sure the school likes you but tell me about it anyways. Have a Merry Christmas Stanley I know you will. And give my love to Caralu.
Love Donna
Stillwater Oklahoma
Sunday June 4th
Dear Stanley,
I suppose you are glad school is out? I know I am. We had our graduation excercises on Friday May 19th-We went back on /Saturday morning for our report cards. I am now ready for the 10th. Are you coming back to Stillwater for a visit this summer? If you do I wish you would stop by to see me. I am anxious to see you. I went to Sunday school this morning and came home to fix dinner. We had rabbit, creamed peas, new potatoes, iced tea and desert. Did you receive the other letters I have written to you? I meant everything I have ever said honest Stanley, I love you. I am going to the show this afternoon. I am going to see “Baton”. Do you ever see any good shows. We see a good one every once in awhile. Why haven’t you written to me? Are you working that keeps you too busy to write? Please write to me and send me a picture of yourself. I have received both the folders from you and I appreciate them very much. I have nearly 175 cards, I would enjoy very much if you would send me some more folders and write me a card once in awhile. Monday I canned 15 pints of peas, Tuesday I canned 35 pints, and Wednesday I done the washing, and Thursday I done the ironing. Friday I canned 9 more pints of peas. Also Thursday evening I put out 151 tomato plants besides the five rows we already have out. I have to get this in the mail now, so lots of love. Your friend always,
Frankie Osborn
Box 263 Stillwater, Oklahoma
Phone 2092
Aug 21 1941
Dear Stanley,
Muz tells me that you are going to get to go to G.M.A. this year. I’m certainly tickled to hear as I know you will get a big kick out of it and will learn a lot. You are pretty young to be going away to school all the way to Atlanta Georgia but not too young. You might as well learn now how to take care of yourself and be independent, And this is a good opportunity to do so. When I went away to Missouri Military academy at the age of 11, I was so excited that I could hardly eat, that lasted until I was loaded on the train and was on my way. The I began to feel a little blue and began to miss my friend and family. When I got up there and moved into a room with a boy I had never seen before from another state, I was homesick little boy and wanted to come home. And I think I probably would if it were not for two things. First, I did not want anyone to think I would ever give up on anything I had started; and secondly, I knew that Muz had spent a lot of money to send me up there and I could not afford to waste it. So I decided that if the rest of the boys could stand it, so could I. And within a month I had made a lot of new friends and enjoyed it up there. I can look back on it now and laugh but it was not so funny at the time. I imagine that the same thing will apply to you. Heres a little advice; If you will follow it, it will save you some stiff jolts and a few hours in the bull ring;1. learn the rules as quickly as possible and obey them without question. If you slip up do not make any excuse. Just take the punishment, forget it, and don’t do it again. Military discipline demands that you obey without question, and when so many boys are together, they must have discipline to get anything done. 2. Play hard during the play period. And study hard during the study period. Pick out some sport and get real good at it. 3. Remember that you are going to have to live with boys there; therefore you want them to like you. The best way to be popular is not to try hard to be popular, but to do your share of the work so they won’t think you are a “gold brick;” enter into their games and be a good sport; not talk about nor brag about your home and friends and be friendly. Be unselfish about your toothpaste, shoe past, and boxes from home, but do not let them take advantage of your generosity. What I mean by not trying to hard to be popular is that it is not worth to do something that your conscience “or what your training has taught you to do” tells you should not do. I think that is enough talking from your old baldheaded uncle. And I don’t think it is even necessary to tell you those things because I know you are smart enough to be a big success if you will just try. Save this letter and read it during your first week at school and then write me a letter and tell me how you are getting along. And have a good time!
Love Ben
Lt. Ben Burdick
49th F.A.
Fort Ord. California
Postcard addressed to:
Cadet Stanly Smith
Georgia Military Academy
College Park
Georgia
n.w. Washington
postmarked Stillwater Oklahoma 6 Oct 1941
Dear Stanley,
I hope you are getting along fine and studying hard. Your daddy told me the other day your address so I thought I would drop you a line. I always helps to hear just a little from home. Owen is still catching pigeons, and now interested in the chicken business. Have you got another pair of socks yet? We think of you real often and hope you think of us. Lots of love Mary Sue
Oct 6 1941
Stanley,
I heard you tried to make me mad by going by giving Ethelynn your picture and having her give hers to you. It won’t work. Have you found a new girl yet? I hope the work isn’t too hard for you. My aunt from the city came today. My teacher is Miss Smith. The same one you had. She is very nice to us. I sit in back of Harry Percy and in front of Kermit Ingham. I sit by the windows. Kermit started his paper again this winter. My family is alright. Sally was sick today. In school we used to sit like this-(followed by a drawing of desks and names). I think she is going to move Ann. I must get to studying on my health and History. We are going to have a test tomorrow. Olga Lee Swim

Monday morning Jan 11 1943
Dear Caralou and Stanley,
Thank you so much for Sharon’s adorable panties. They fit perfectly and are as cute as can be. I know that for very long Sabra is going to have to have fun with her waterfall. Sharon had one but had forgotten about it so she had to give Sabra’s a few shakes. I am sorry to have been so long in writing, but I was sick off and on mostly on for about a month. A few two or three days that I have felt like a human being as I said in a month’s time. I literally couldn’t sit at a desk and hold a pen. Stanley I hope by now you have fully recovered from your cold, and of course you are back in school. You ask about the babys name, it is Sabra Lynn. I don’t have a picture but hope to have in the not so distant future and I’ll send you one. Not having a picture is just symptomatic of what life has been like around all fall and winter. Mostly due to lack of help. I just can’t be well and feel like anything and do everything for days after the flu hit. My cook who had been taking care of the children for me, went out one night and it was one week to the day before she came home. We decided to call quits. I knew she didn’t really want to leave but I wouldn’t ask her to stay so--. She fooled around for about four days before about getting packed up and moved out, but finally Christmas we got the last bag out. On Wednesday after Christmas she came to see Sharon’s things and hinted around that she would come back and I jumped at the chance. In the mean time I things are going fairly well for a few minutes at any rate. The east is really out of fuel oil and people are just freezing. One of the big hotels ran out yesterday, and you can imagine what that’s like. One of our friends is going to have to take her children and leave town, while her husband will go to a hotel. They had 50 gallons of oil to last them about 5 weeks. We used to burn 50 gallons in one day and a half. We are fortunate to have a coal furnace and enough coal to last all winter. We had a beautiful big snow
Stillwater
Jun 6th 1943
Dear Stanley,
I know that it was just last night that I met you. But you seemed to have been getting along pretty well with Patty Ann.
Ruth Mullenar said this morning that she didn’t think that you would like her as much as usual. I don’t know why she said that though. I hope you will excuse my writing. You see I can’t write on paper without line as well as paper with. Well Harry is back in town. He has been in Clinton for the past week. Boy was I glad when he came home. Stanley, I’m a heck of a mess. I don’t know whether to like Kermit or Harry. Which do you think I would like most? Harry and I have an awful lot in common. We both like to swim a lot and play tennis, dance and golf. As for Kermit, we don’t have much in common. Well I know how boring my letters are so I will stop. If you should want to answer his letter, here is my return address:

Patty Timbken
1021 w. 9th street
Stillwater Ok
Love Pat

Eugene Hamilton Storer Coleville leader receipt

2011-07-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

To Mrs. Pisell 1912

2011-07-21T20:45:00.000-07:00

To Mrs. Pisell
Valley Center Kansas

postmarked Los Angeles Aug 16 1912
2 p.m.

We took the Baloon trip yesterday. Saw lots of beautiful flowers as well as other pretty things. Your friend M. Case
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Wes and Elsie Pisell
420 E. Oklahoma
Enid
Oklahoma

Postmarked Aug 24 1923
Boulder Colorado

Dear friends,
arrived here from Denver this noon. We are not at one farthest point. Gone over 800 miles. Splendid scenery
Yours truly,
Mr. and Mrs. B.E. Reams
-----------------------------------------------------------------

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.005-07:00

To Elsie Pisell
420 E. Oklahoma
Enid Oklahoma

Postmarked Los Angeles
Dec 9 1920

Dear Elsie,
will write you a line from Riverside California but am going back to Long Beach soon and will write you all
Grand
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Pearl Pisell
1358 So. Broadway
Wichita Kansas

postmarked Carlsbad New Mexico
May 1909

We took the 11:00 tour. We walked in and out 3 3/4 miles. Rather tired. Started at 3:00 p.m. Sat. Cool 58 degrees in cave. I drove from Sapulpa to 30 mile this side of Wichita Falls Tex. Went thursday Waurika. May stop at El Reno on way home for a minute.
Elsie

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.004-07:00

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.003-07:00

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.002-07:00

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.001-07:00

To Elsie Pisell

2011-07-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

Diary of William Addison Bushnell-Civil War Soldier

2011-07-18T16:46:00.001-07:00

DIARY OF WILLIAM ADDISON BUSHNELL

CIVIL WAR SOLDIER

Dec. 10th, 1864, Enlist in the California Volunteers at San Francisco. Second Regiment of Infantry, Co. K. Lieutenant T. C. Winchell commanding Co. Col. Thomas F. Wright commanding regiment. Nine Companies of which are stationed at the Presidio, three miles from town, the other Co. is stationed at Round Valley, Mendocino Co.

Dec. 12, Mustered into the Service of the United States and proceed to Recruiting Rendezvous, on Harrison St., preparatory to joining my regiment.

Dec. 15. Receive Government Bounty. $100.00 in greenback which are worth 46 cents on the dollar.

Dec. 16 Join my company and regiment at Presidio.

May 25, 1865. Rumors are rife in the camp that we will soon be discharged as the war is virtually closed, the question is much discussed among the soldiers.

July 1st. Promoted to the rank of Corporal.

July 4th. The entire Command to town in full force commanded by Lieutenant Col. Pollock. Spent the day very agreeably.

Aug 4th (Sunday) From week to week how little happens to relieve the monotony of a soldiers life in the garrison. How seldom is the Sabath a day of rest for him. With the exception of Drill it relieves him from few of the ordinary labors of the day. Dress Parade and Inspection occupying the principal part of the forenoon, leaving only the afternoon for recreation and rest.

Aug. 18. Leave the Presidio enroute for Arizona via Drum Barracks. Five companies comprising the headquarters of the Second Regiment, embark on the Steamer Senator at 3 P. M. The companies are B. G. H. and K. A. C. and I. remain at the Presidio awaiting transportation, the other two Companies D. and F. are at Humboldt and will probably not accompany the regiment.

Aug. 20 (Sunday) At sea. Ocean smooth as a mill pond weather superb. Had a glimpse of some whales. Land always on our port side about sundown pass Point Concepcions and sometime in the nite pass Santa Barbara.

Aug. 21 Arrive at San Pedro at 10 A. M. companies form into line on the wharf and march up thought town and on to a slough three miles from town where we encamp. Memorandum orders issued from headquarters christen the place "Camp No. 1 near Drum Barracks". Strictly speaking it is not a very desirable place to camp but whatever inconveniences there may be are overlooked by the strict law of "Military necessity".

Aug. 28 A. and C. companies came into the camp today commanding by Lieut. Col. Pollock. G. Co. still remains at the Presidio. Seven companies of the Second are now at Camp No. 1, dwelling in tents and awaiting orders to march Arizona onward. The climate here compares with San Francisco, is warm, but not uncomfortably so, dust is rather plenty, so are watermelons, both of which seem to be the principal productions of the country. Scorpions and tarantulas are also abundant. Take it altogether life is rather pleasant at Camp No. 1.

Sept. 8 Co. I joins the regiment. The camp is in motion today to make readiness for moving tomorrow, everybody is busy.

Sept. 11 Leave Camp No. 1 travel 12 miles and encamp in the San Gabriel Rio.

Sept. 13 Encamp at El Monte one splendid stream of water, excellent vineyards in this vicinity Scenery Magnificent. Mountains surrounding the valley, judging from appearances we are on the outskirts of civilization.

ON THE DESERT 1865 Sept. 25

With the far-stretching desert behind and before us-
Slowly onward we toil with our poor aching feet
With heavens unclouded canopy o’er us-
And the sun beaming on us with tropical heat.

No tree by the roadside with wide spreading branches-
Invite the poor trooper to rest and repose
No orchards, no cornfields, or even milk-ranches
Where the soldier may forage his grub as he goes-

Oh such is the desert that burns like a furnace
A treeless waste of immeasurable sand-
That conspires with the sun to torture and burn us
Through the width and the breadth of this waterless land

Cactus and sagebrush and such scant vegetation
Survive in some places the suns scorching rays
While horn-toads and lizards that defy numeration
Bask in and enjoy his meridian blaze.

‘Tis a landscape that wearies the vision
And wearies the limbs of the footman no less
Description is futile, words have not the precision,
To print as it is this vast wilderness.

The column drags onward with slow measured paces
Oh that the end of our journey were nigh.
Though few words are said, you may read in all faces
"Weary, weary, and our canteens are dry".

Oh for some river with green grassy borders
Whose waters reflect the placid blue sky.
Where the soldiers might rest "until further orders".
Or ‘til Gabriel’s trumpet blows "recall" from on High.

Sept. 30. Fort Yuma is situated on a slight eminence on the western bank of the Colorado River, a short distance below the confluence of the Gila- which empties on the opposite side- The adobe buildings constituting the Officers and soldiers quarters, were built in 1852 or 3 and are large and commodious, and viewed externally are picturesque and pleasing to the eye.

Oct. 8 A detachment of the second Inf. Co. 2 consisting of three companies under command of Lieutenant Col. Pollock leave Fort Yuma enroute for Arizona. Our destination is said to be Fort Goodwin. We get over the river by 7 P.M. and pass through Arizona City, thence on a mile from town and encamp on a slough, the remaining companies are destined for Fort Breckenridge.

Oct. 10- Reville sounds at 3 A. M. and an hour later we are on the ride. After traveling 19 miles we encamp at Gila City, so called consisting of the remains of two or three willow houses, occupied by an American and his Mexican Senorita, together with a few Greasers and half-clad Indians. Gila City lies at the foot of a range of rocky hills, and on the Gila River. Some little mining is done in the hills nearby and the place was the scene of considerable mining excitement 3 or 4 years ago.

Oct. 11, Travel 17 miles and encamp at Mission Camp. "No Inhabitants". Road sandy and rock. A species of Cactus is found through the country here which much resembles the trunk of a standing tree. It rises to the height of 15 or 20 feet and is profusely covered with thorns the center of the tree is the largest part, from which it tapers gradually to either end. Some of them are two feet thick and where a few of them are standing together they present quite a picturesque appearance. But majestic as they are, they can never rise too much importance as a shade tree, hot having any limbs. The only kind of wood found here is a species of thorny wood known as mesquite.

Oct. 12, Distance the same, as yesterday, encamp at the foot of Antelope Peak. A mountain that rises abruptly to the height of 4 or 5 hundred feet, towering in majestic style, and throwing a splendid shade over our camp from 2 P. M. The nites here are much cooler that at Yuma, rather too cold for comfort. Unless with about three blankets over us. Some Mexicans live here, one family at least. Their only means of support seem to be selling a occasional glass of Tarantula juice, at 25 cents.

Oct. 13, March 16 miles and encamp on the river among heavy willows and weeds, interspersed with cottonwoods. Capt. Stewart caught a splendid Salmon. A train of Emigrants camp near, they are from Texas Hill and represent themselves as being "hard up".

Oct. 14 Leave camp as usual at 5 A. M. In two miles pass Mohawk Station. Nine miles further pass Texan Hill and still six miles further reach, Teamsters or Shady Camp, and halt for the day. A portion of the command got on the wrong road, or rather on no road at all, for which they were indebted to Captain Noyes. Shady Camp consists of a few cottonwood trees, standing on the banks of the Gila, and were it not for the dust, and wind would be an agreeable place. McGinnis shot a crane across the river. The boys caught some nice fish.. Distance 17 miles. (not the fish)

Oct. 15, Travel 14 miles and encamp at Grinnells Station, on the Rio, at a nice grove, and a sort of house made of poles or logs set on end. The occupants were two or three white men, and as many Mexican women, Watermelons for sale at tres reals, a piece. Some of the teams are sent over the river after barley for the mules. Our time of traveling since we left is pretty regular, "Reville" sounds at 4 A. M. immediately after comes "Role Call" then follows the "General", which means for all hands to hurry up and get ready for the road. About five the "Assembly" sounds and the companies fall in, and await the call "forward" which soon sounds off and off we go. In two hours we halt and rest a few minutes, and at the end of every hour thereafter until we halt for the day.

Oct. 16, Were compelled to make a departure from our ordinary starting hour on account of the teams being sent after barley. It was 8 ½ A. M. when we got under way and 11 ½ A. M. we encamp at Burke’s Station (an old overland stage station) distance 12 miles, no houses nor any evidence of inhabitants except an Emigrant Train from Texas. They represent themselves as being destitute of provisions and money. They are bound for California. The train consists mostly of women and children. - Pass over plains of dry grass which would have made excellent hay and it been cut in due season. My prediction is that the valley of the Gila will some day contain nice farms and fields of cotton where nothing grows now but luxuriant grass and willows.

Oct. 17. Leave camp as usual at 5 A. M. and arrive at Oatman Flat at 8 ½ A. M. distance 12 miles. The country over which we travel today is rough and rocky. The entire country is strewn with a species of burnt rock resembling lava. After leaving the upland for the river bottom by descending a steep rocky hill, we find ourselves on "Oatman Flat". About a quarter of a mile after leaving the bluff, on the left had side of the road is a small enclosure about six feet square at one end of which may be seen a board bearing the crude inscription "The Oatman Family, 1851". Here it was that the ill fated emigrants perished at the hands of the blood-thirsty Apaches - and over yonder bluff in a southerly direction, they bore their pale-faced captives. Seven of the family are said to be buried in the grave by the roadside viz, the two Oatman brothers, the younger brother’s wife and 4 children some of which, I believe, belonged to the elder Oatman who was a widower. We encamp at the upper end of the Oatman Flat on the river.

Oct. 18. Leave camp at the usual hour and arrive at Canyon Station, on the river, at 10 A. M. Distance 16 miles. Met a train of wagons going toward California consisting of 10 mules to the wagon. Road much the same as yesterday. Another train of wagons camp near us, which have been to Camp McDowell with supplies and are going to Yuma for more.

Oct. 19. Arrive at "Gila Bend" at 10 A. M., pass two teams of emigrants camped on the road. Our camp abounds in willows, cottonwoods, dust, etc. One company of Cavalry (Cal. Volunteers) are encamped here, also a large emigrant train from Texas. From here to our next camping ground it is said to be 45 miles, the whole distance is without water - very pleasant to contemplate. We shall probably try it tomorrow.

Oct. 20. Leave camp at 3 P. M. (the hottest part of the day) and halt at 11½ P.M. at the remains of an old stage-station, said to be half-way between Gila Bend and Maricopa Wells. We pass some very tall cactus, some 40 feet high. No water here.

Oct. 21. After building fires, making coffee and replenishing our canteens from the barrels in the wagons, we resume our march with renewed energy at 2 A. M. In 8 miles pass the "Tank", no water. At 8 A. M. we arrive at Maricopa Wells which takes the name from the tribe of Indians residing here. They are innumerable, or seem to be, and flock around our camp with fine water-melons for sale. They are fine looking Indians and are on good terms with the whites. They speak considerable Spanish and make some pretensions to clothing themselves.

Oct. 22 Lay over to-day and rest ourselves after our big march. Had a thunder shower in the evening accompanied with a strong wind, which came near lifting our tents off the ground, but little rain fell, however. A store is kept here.

Oct. 23 Our road, after leaving Maricopa, for three or four miles was thought one continuous line of Indian houses. Judging by the number of houses, the village must contain 4 or 5 thousand inhabitants. Some estimate the number as high as 8,000. Their houses are constructed of a kind of framework of willows, are generally flat on top and are thatched with grass and dirt. Everything around their town is scrupulously neat and clean. Between the village and the river, lie their farms which are fenced in with small poles. They raise pumpkins, water-melons, corn and wheat etc. At half past nine A. M. we arrive at Pima Villages 12 miles distant. Here is a 10 horse power steam flouring mil and store, black-smith shop, eating-house etc., a few whites and Indians without number. They are the Pima tribe and farm quite extensively, raising fine crops of wheat, corn etc. The Pimas and Maricopas are allies against the Apaches, between which there seems to be a hereditary hatred. There is also a Co. of them enlisted in the service of the U. S. , under command of Lieut. Walker. They fight the Apaches in their own way and in this respect are superior to our soldiers, perhaps.

Oct. 24. Travel 12 miles and arrive at Sacaton. Indian houses were in sight nearly all the way and Indians of both sexes passed us frequently on the road. They are generally mounted on their ponies the squaws ride a-straddle, and upon them devolves the labor of transporting their stores from one place to another, hence you may often see a squaw mounted on a pony and astride a bag of wheat going to mill, or carrying a huge basket of water-melons, to market on their back. The parties who own the mill purchase their wheat, convert into flour and find a ready market for it in the territory. Sacaton is on the Gila and is the last place we shall see the river on the road. Our road to-day was level with broken ranges of mountains on either hand. Water is easily obtained in many places, though it is generally brackish and unfit to drink. Copper ore is found in the mountains, though the mines, as yet, are not much worked.

Oct. 25. Leave camp at 5 A. M. and arrive in camp at 12 M. at an old overland stage station called Blue Water. Distance 24 miles. A mile or so after starting we passed the limits of the Indian Reservation. Upon a raised mound is seen a pole with the inscription cut into it, P. & M Reservation 1858. In 10 miles pass a dilapidated uninhabited old adobe, formerly a Stage Station. Level country and good roads. Our supply of water here comes from a well nearly a hundred feet deep and raised by a windlass. The water is good, being of a clear and slightly blue color, to this the station is indebted its name. The boys have a great time in the evening, shooting a beef animal. Nearly the whole command turned out in masse with muskets in hand to shoot him. Several shots were fired without much effect and the animal becoming demoralized, threatened tents and such frail property with destruction, when a lucky shot from Sergeant Dulin, forced him to capitulate and thus the skirmish ended.

Oct. 26. Make another long march of 46 miles. Leave camp at 5 A. M. and arrive in camp at Point of Mountain at 8 P. M., find a good well of water 70 or 80 feet deep and apparently inexhaustible. Eight miles from our last camp we passed an old stage station called Pocatch, did not halt, no water. Halted about noon, had coffee, refilled our canteens and after resting for 3 hours, resumed our march. Splendid roads and level country. Passed a high, bold projecting rock on our right and a similar one on our left at the same time.

Oct. 27. Lay over at Point of Mountain.

Oct. 28. Eighteen miles brings us to Tucson, an old Mexican town, built entirely of adobe houses. It is quite a place and the population with the exception of a detachment of soldiers, consists entirely of Mexicans. We pass on through the town and encamp about a mile from it on a nice stream of water.

Oct. 29th and 30th Remain in camp near Tucson.

Oct. 31. Muster and inspection of camp.

Nov. 1. Reveille, sounding at 4 A. M. drowns the voices of an uncertain number of coyotes, and causes a certain number of soldiers to turn out from their blankets, to inhale the morning air. An hour later we are on the road to Fort Goodwin, said to be distant 160 miles. We saw a great deal of game along the road to-day such as quail and hare. Also saw a fine herd of antelope. The country is covered with dry grass and seems more fertile than usual. We find a kind of wild fruit, resembling banana and called by that name. We pass a spot where a party of emigrants were murdered by the Indians this summer, the remains of an Indian seen dangling from a bush near by. One of the murderers, he thus forfeited his life for his pains. The Indians, it seems, did not know the value of the money they found on the persons of those they murdered so scattered it profusely along the trail when they retreated - and it was picked up by the Cavalry who went in pursuit. We halt for a couple of hours, take lunch and from thence inter Murders Canyon, then up the canyon about 10 miles and encamp in the slough, good water.

Nov. 2. Lay over.

Nov. 3. By 5 A. M. we were on the road and, from that time until sunrise the weather was uncomfortably cool. We traveled ‘til 1 P. M., then encamped on a splendid stream of water, called the San Pedro. Numerous remains of adobe houses are found along its banks.

Nov. 4. Marched down the river 5 miles and encamped for the day.

Nov. 5. Make a fatiguing march of 25 miles to Croton Springs. Nine hours on the road, water brackish and no wood except mezcal stalks. We passed the grave of a man murdered by the Indians in July last (a member of the 1st Calvary, 1st Cal. Vol.) More antelope.

Nov. 6. Seventeen miles brings us to Oak Grove, a splendid grove of oak trees between us and mountains on our left. One of the Cavalry escorts brings a fine antelope into camp.

Nov. 7. Reach Eureka Wells, fine water. Find some black walnuts here of small variety.

Nov. 8 Travel 18 miles and encamp in Sycamore Canyon. Water scarce.

Nov. 9. Arrive at Ft. Goodwin, our destination, at 1½ P.. M. and having no quarter to go into, we stretch our shelter tents for the present. The fort seems to be pleasantly located, having a nice spring stream running by it. Wood is plentiful but timber for building purposes is not be had. The troops stationed here are Co. I, 1st New Mexico Vol. and Co. M, 1st Calvary Cal. Vol.. both companies of which are about 70 strong each. Col. Pollock will assume command here soon. Here then we may say "Alabama" (Here we rest.)

Recapitulatory

Ft. Goodwin Nov. 10, ’65

From her to San Pedro, the distance is between 8 and 9 hundred miles and viewing it as a whole from the road, we venture to say that a more uninviting country, the sun never shone on. We should say that some years must elapse before it "Blossoms as the rose". With a few exceptions, we may in fact, set it down as an interminable waste. From San Pedro to Ft. Yuma, the country may be set down as a desert, with the exception of a verdant spot, here and there, on that portion of the road nearest the seaboard.

From Ft. Yuma to Tucson the country "gets no better fast" and cannot be called an improvement on that west of the Colorado. From Tucson to this post it is somewhat more inviting, the valleys and lowlands are well lined with verdure and even the mountains up to their summits are dotted with bunch-grass. Wild animals, denominated "game" are more abundant that heretofore such as quail, rabbit, deer and antelope.

As for timber, that is a word not known in the vocabulary of Arizona productions if we except a species of scrubby, thorny wood known as "mesquite" - A few cottonwoods are found along the streams.

Some fish are found in the rivers, that are not all dried up. Water is plentiful, especially along the principal rivers.

At least a portion of the territory comprises what is know as the "Gadsden Purchase". We do not know the amount paid but are of the opinion form a pecuniary point of view, Uncle Sam Was the loser. The U. S. Marshal of the Territory is Maj. A. B. Duggield, a man whose antecedents, if reports be true, eminently qualify him for the position. He resides at Tucson, a place that deserves a passing notice being the largest town we have seen since leaving San Pedro (Arizona City not excepted). Its antiquity is disputed ground, or at lease involved in some obscurity - but judging from appearances we should say it was founded sometime since the Christian Era.

The houses are built entirely of adobe and the streets are laid out with about as much regard for neatness and regularity as are the trails through a prairie dog village. The inhabitants are greasers and Indians with the exception of Uncle Sam’s boys. In the matter of costume, a variety of styles prevail - from the Indian with flour-sack about his loins to the well clad American soldier - from the Mexican vaqueros with immense sombreros and jingling spurs to the government teamster with slouch hat and tattered habiliments. The female portion of the community is entirely Mexican and they are slouchy and inelegant in their attire and indolent in their habits.

In fact, viewing the inhabitants collectively, one may say of them in the language of Byron, that "No one doth seem to care for cleanliness of surtout or of shirt, though sheut with Egypt’s plague, unkempt, unwashed, unhurt".

Such was our impressions of Tucson by daylight but to make matters worse, we took a stroll through the town by moonlight. If we had before entertained exalted ideas of Alhambras by moon-light and gay youths serenading their sweet hearts in the evening air, fragrant with the aroma of orange blossoms and all that sort of thing, they vanished with that nocturnal visit. No love-sick cavalier touched his guitar at the window of his fair senorita. All was silent save a few soldiers carousing in a adjacent gin-mill. The streets were nearly deserted and in the soft silver light of the moon, the shapeless adobe houses seemed ten times more flat and unromantic.

Prescott situated in a mineral portion of the country is the capital and largest town in the Territory. A newspaper entitled "Arizona Miner" is published here. It eschews politics, advocates the mining interest and is "Sound on the goose", or at least it ought to be as it is the only one published in the Territory. Goodwin is the functionary who is supposed to hold the reins of the Territorial Government in his hands, at present, and this camp, misnamed Fort, is his namesake. It was established about 1½ years ago. Seven companies of troops were sent here with the expectation of having a fight with the Indians, as it was supposed that they would make a stand at this one of their strongest camps but it seems that they did not dare to abide the issue, and fled a few hours previous to the arrival of the soldiers. There are, as yet no permanent buildings here and the location is not very interesting from a scenic point of view. From what we can learn, we believe that the Apaches are in possession of the Territory at present, with the exception of a few isolated outposts and it seem to be their custom to come into these out-posts (this one, at least) every winter, treat for peace, receive rations from the government, lay around the garrison all winter and leave at the approach of spring, for their inaccessible haunts in the mountains and then, no doubt, they exclaim in the language of one of their race who once flourished on the other side of the continent, "Our vice is still for war". They may be very good friends of the white man, as they profess to be (when in his power) but as Artemas Ward would say they sometimes have a "cussed queer way of showing it".

Take it altogether ,the road from San Pedro to here is not a very interesting road to travel. The scarcity of timber will always be a draw-back to the development of the country; but in the absence of timber, there is an abundance of mezcal and every third mile on the road develops a new species of cactus.

Such is our impression of the Territory, so far. And here we pause.

Nov. 11. An alarm was occasioned in camp last night by the discharge of fire-arms and the remains of an Apache Chief lying in front of the guard house this morning proved to have been the cause of the disturbance. He has been a prisoner at the post for some time and proof is not wanting of his being principal in several outrages committed upon emigrants and others on the road. Common report and a cloud of witnesses stamp him as a villain of the blackest dye. But last night he paid the debt of nature and stretched at full length upon the ground he looked like an Apache gone in (Patagonian). He is said to be well known in New Mexico, Arizona and Sonora and somewhere in the latter place, a reward of $3000 is said to have been offered for his head.

The particulars of his capture are somewhat as follows: Coming into the garrison among some other Indians he was recognized by a Mexican guide and taken charge of by the authorities here. Since his capture, he has been kept in double irons in the guard house. Hopes of a release have all along been held out to him in order to elicit form his, if possible, information in regard to the whereabouts of some white children who are captives of the Apaches. The manner of his death is not clearly known, at lease not to everyone. One report is that he was shot endeavoring to escape from the sentinel in charge. Another report current in camp and the one most generally believed is that he was shot by order of the Commanding Officer. It was rather clandestinely done and it is not very satisfactory to the soldiers. They vastly preferred seeing him executed publicly, black criminal that he was, to his being assassinated thus. At any rate, five or six shots fired in quick succession just as we were dropping off to sleep, precipitated us from our tents in some little confusion. However we all fell in under arms and after the alarm again turned in, slept on our arms and kept ourselves prepared for an attack.

Nov. 18. Capt. Stewart, in command of Co. H started out this morning on a scout but returned in the afternoon not having met any "foreman worthy of his steel". The expedition was started on the strength of a rumor that the Indians were driving a band of sheep through the country east of here, and they (the officers) expected to make a raid and capture them. It turned out that an Indian was the cause of all the excitement because of his making inquiries as to whether the Q. M. would like to buy two or three hundred head of sheep. Since Capt. Stewart’s return, no one seems disposed to purchase sheep.

Nov. 21. Funeral at sunset. A private of Co. I, New Mexico Vol. A train of supplies arrives from Tucson. They bring with them rumors that we are soon to be mustered out. And as a consequence the boys are in high spirits to night.

Nov. 22. Some friendly Indians came into camp today and informed the officers that some of their tribe have some white children captives about 20 miles from here. A detachment under command of Lieut. Febner consisting of Sergeant Dulin and ten privates was immediately dispatched to rescue them, to be gone three days.

Nov. 25. Lieut. Felmer’s [sic] detachment returns not having found any white captives. They brought with them an Apache Chief, bearing a flag of truce and seven or eight of his tribe who are peacefully disposed and favor a treaty of peace. In the afternoon two detachments consisting of 50 men each, leave the garrison for scouting purposes, one under command of Capt. Simpson and the other under Capt. Stewart. In the former is a detachment of K Company among which is myself. We are supposed to be absent 30 days. The military authorities, it seems insist on a vigorous prosecution of the war. Our command goes down the Gila. We encamp at night 5 miles from the garrison, on the river.

Nov. 26. Travel down the river ten miles and encamp. An Express from the garrison reaches us at camp. Shortly after dark the sentinel reported that he saw a couple of Indians prowling around in the bushes which gave us some alarm and we immediately extinguished our fires and stayed out in the cold until morning.

Nov. 27. March down the river six miles. Down the river, down the Gila 7 miles. Numerous signs of Indians. Deserted ranchos.

Nov. 28. After two or three miles travel this morning, we wade the river then leave it to our left. Our trail leads us over the upland and hills for a couple of miles then down a steep rocky hill into the pleasant valley of the Rio San Carlos. The river here is about a rod wide and is well lines with cottonwoods and willows.

Nov. 30. Travel on up the San Carlos, over the Bluffs and valley alternately and encamp on a fine grassy plateau with a precipitous bluff of rock facing us from the east and the river with its monotonous woods and willows on the west. Here our command will probably halt and send out scouting parties in different directions.

Dec. 1st. Remain in camp. A detachment is sent out Indian hunting under command of Capt. Noyes. Indications of rain.

Dec. 2nd. Another scouting party is sent out under command of Lieut. Norcross. Rain.

Dec. 3rd. Lieut. Norcross party returns. Found no Indians. Rained all night.

Dec. 4th. Pleasant. Remain in camp, dry our clothing and blankets. Rations beginning to get short.

Dec. 5th. Cloudy and disagreeable with indications of more rain. Still in camp.

Dec. 6th. Weigh anchor and start for home. Camp at night on the Saint Charles River

Dec. 7th. Cross the Gila.

Dec. 8th. Lay over.

Dec. 9th. Decamp.

Dec. 10th. March on up the river ten or twelve miles and encamp within 15 miles of home.

Dec. 11th. Arrive at Goodwin seventeenth day out.

SCOUTING

At this season of the year, carrying one blanket, your overcoat, half a shelter tent, your gun accoutrements and 210 rounds of ammunition, is not very desirable pastime, especially when you are out seventeen days without finding an Indian. If Jomini could peruse a detailed account of our expedition, he would , no doubt, see fit to change his definition of military terms considerably. Thus the term Scouting (in an Indian country, at least) as our experience proves, is to start out and travel 8 or 10 miles a day, camping about noon and keeping good fires burning all night so as to warn all Indians of your whereabouts. In the morning a large fire should be built so as to make smoke so that the enemy can see it and flee your approach. It is also well to take the precaution a few days before leaving the garrison to post all guides and interpreters so that they can easily go out into the mountains and intimate the coming danger to their savage brother. Thus you will easily avoid coming into collision with the noble red man. An appropriate report to send to Headquarters would be something like this:

Deserted Rancheria, December 1865

General:

We are at the camp of the enemy and they are ours (hour ahead of us.
Dec. 12th. On our arrival home we find our company moved into our new quarters, which are somewhat more comfortable than tent. Capt. Stewart and party return bringing with them nearly 200 Indians, of both sexes and of all ages. They are going to treat for peace. Rations of beef and wheat are issued to them from the Commissary.
Dec. 15th. Rations begin to fail in the Commissary and one hears nothing but grumbling and complaining.

Dec. 25th. Christmas comes but once a year,
And That eventful day is here,
But "Faith" it brings us little cheer
Christmas turkeys are very dear,
And we cannot get a drop of beer
Starvation, of course, we do not fear
But things are working rather queer,
Meanwhile we hope that better times are near.

New Year Day, January First 1866
Ascent the watch-tower, valiant soldier
Look on the field and say how goes the battle

Schiller’s Maid of Orleans.

It is profitable occasionally in our lives to retrospect the past, to ascent the watch-tower of memory and look back on the field we have traversed, to view at a soul glance the many sinuosities of the road we have trod, to trace the intricacies of the thread of our existence back to its source, to view the vicissitudes through which we have passed, and the perils we have survived. Encouraging is such a view to the mind disposed to profit by experience. Sublime are its teachings, forcing us to acknowledge in all things the presence of an over-ruling Providence. Giving us to know that man tho’ a slave to earthly sense is progressing toward all that is good and pure. Yet when we come to view the many errors of our lives both of head and heart, the good resolutions we have made and never kept, the good deeds we have never done and the evil we have upheld (by our silence, at least), when we view all these, I repeat, we are disposed to report that the battle goes unfavorably. Our success I life depends on the spirit with which we fight life’s battles for what is life but a series of conflicts, a ceaseless strife against passion, against fortune and "the thousand ills that flesh is heir to". How true is the language of the poet, that "He who lives as wise men ought , but lives as saints have died, a martyr". "There is a lion in the way" yea many of them, and only a few of earth’s lion-hearted sons may overcome the obstacle to their progress in this mundane existence. The last chapter in "This strange eventful history" is death, the great Waterloo of the campaign of life, the final struggle to which even Napoleon must succumb. Behold what two great volumes of wisdom are open to our perusal so that "He who runs may read". They are respectively The Experience of Man and The World of Nature. This first may show us the reefs and rock on which so many who have preceded us have made shipwreck, may point us to the quicksand which lay in our future course, may direct us to the goal of human ambition to which we would aspire and teach us inunmistable terms that if we would avoid their fate, we must avoid their errors. The second is the great pictorial edition of the Works of nature, issued some centuries ago from the hand of its Divine Author. Yet how few have read aught but its title pages, how few have ever dived into its mysteries or fathomed the secrets it contains. This great volume is ever before us like an open book-teaching man his affinity to everything in Nature of which he constitutes a part, from the stream let hurrying on like man to its destiny, the boundless ocean to the son-covered mountains that point forever to the skies. Who that goes forth into the boundless Kingdom of Nature among her fields and flowers and trees which were the first temples of God, but feels his soul expand within him as he reads "Books in the running brooks, sermons in stone and good in everything". The tendency of our own experience should be to make us hopeful for the future, strong for the coming conflicts of the soul with the senses and to make each year in our life an improvement on its predecessor.

Camp Starvation January 27, 1866

The troops at this post consisting of 3 companies of California and one of New Mexican Volunteers under the command of Lt. Col. Pollock and the whole in the service of the United States, are not starved out yet, but here is something in Denmark that smells bad. We are of the opinion that certain officials in this department have been reaching deep down into Uncle Sam’s packet for since our battalion arrived here not a frijole has been issued to us. There wasn’t any at the post and of course no one was to blame. Misfortunes never come alone and this was the beginning of tribulations. About two weeks before Christmas the sugar gave out in the commissary. Of course, no one was to blame and the soldiers swallowed their coffee with as good grace as possible, under the circumstances. About this time the supply of beef cattle failed and after some delay arrangements were made with the sutler at the post for butchering his ox teams which had recently done their owner good service on the road. Now the soldiers were furnished with meat for a while longer but times which had begun to look blue were not nearly so blue as the sutler’s beef. Early in the present month our rations of bread began to grow small by degrees, decreasing in weight at the rate of nearly an ounce a day. By the twelfth of the present month we received only half rations of bread but were allowed an additional quantity of rice was again augmented and now come the experiment of feeding us on wheat, accordingly a pound of wheat was issued to, each man and after being boiled was served out by the cook. The experiment prove a failure, the stomachs of the soldiers refusing to sanction so important a change in diet and the wheat ration was stopped. Since then we have been living on rice plain, coffee straight and very indifferent beef. There has as yet been no insubordination or mutiny, not a man has refused to do his duty as a good soldier though we will not say but what curses both loud and deep have been showered upon the heads of those who are considered responsible for the deficiency. Perhaps the adage that the hour is the darkest just before the dawn may have a prophetic application in our case. At least we hope so. In the meanwhile we shall keep an anxious lookout for a train and of course blame nobody.

Jan. 28th A train of supplies arrived today consisting of 15,000 lbs. of flour, pork and beans etc.

Feb. 2nd. Paymaster arrives and of course the boys are jubilant in anticipation of receiving at his hands four months pay, bounty etc. in greenbacks.

Feb. 3rd. Two companies were paid off today and greenbacks are flying around like leaves in an autumn wind.

Feb. 5th. Los otros dos companias were paid today.

Feb. 10th. Since payday gambling has been all the rage. The Montebank is the insatiable Moloch to whom the boys offer up their sacrifices in the shape of greenbacks.

Feb. 18th. Inspector-General, by name Davis, and by rank Major arrives at the post.

Feb. 19th. Inspection and Review by Major Davis. A train of supplies in the evening from Tucson. Private Johnson of Co. B, 7th Inf. Cal. Vol., on escort duty here gave an entertainment in the consisting of scenes from Shakespeare.

Feb. 22nd. The troops were paraded and reviewed today in commemoration of the birthday of the Father of his Country.

Feb. 24th. There was quite a stir in camp last night at 11 o’clock. The sentry at Post No. 2 discharged his piece at some passing hombre who, prompted perhaps by an inordinate desire to remain incognito refused to answer when challenged but took to his heels like a valiant soldier. Thus far no harm was done but the report of the musket brought sundry members of the Guard to the spot, among others, the Officer of the Day who on this particular occasion had so far forgotten his dignity as an officer in the U.S. Army as to be in a state of beastly intoxication and fell headlong into a ditch nearby and this morning he, the sergeant of the guard and the 1st Sergeant of Company I are under arrest. Recent developments show that a mujere (Q) who hold forth in the lower part of the garrison was the cause of all the disturbance. May we not say with Shakespeare "Woman, thy name is frailty".

Feb. 28th. Inspection and Muster.

Mar. 1st. Scouting has again become fashionable. This morning the New Mexican Company left for a scout of 20 days.

Mar. 5th. Brigadier General Whittier, Inspection General, accompanied by Col. Dennison of the 2nd U.S. Artillery and Col. Smedberg of the 14th. U.S. Infantry arrived at this post. Escort return from Fort Grant. They report that Capt. Urmy in command of a scouting party from Fort Grant fired on a body of Indians a day or two ago, killing four and taking a few prisoners. The Indians did not evince any hostility and it seems were fired on unaware. The escort brought in a captive that they picked up on the way, a youth of 9 or 10 years, supposed to be a boy but evidence being adduced to the contrary SHE was set at liberty.

March 12th. Inspector General takes his departure for Fort Grant. All the military stores pertaining to the post underwent a thorough examination and inspection during his stay and all articles and stores unfit for use were promptly condemned. It is probable that some changes for the better will be made in this department soon. Our hopes for a discharge from this service in three or four months are confirmed by the General. The Col. of the 14th is well pleased with the location and it is said intends making this post his headquarters.

Mar. 15th. "The cry is still they come" the Apaches we mean. Col. Pollock’s conciliatory manner of treating them has brought large numbers of them in the vicinity of the garrison where rations of "carne" and wheat are issued to them daily. A walk around among the rancherias is quite entertaining. Their habits of life may be said to be in strange contrast with those of the nations of other lands. All manual labor devolves upon the squaw such as carrying water &. The bucks occupy their time mostly in lounging around the hillsides and basking in the sun. At night the buck enfolds himself in his serape and lies along side the fire taking care to secure for himself the most comfortable position. The female members of the family cook the supper and keep the fires going, if need be, all night. Their language, if it may be dignified with the name, consists of a series of guttural sounds or grunts which would be very difficult to express in English.

Mar. 17th. Some time ago we noted the fact that the troops at this post were destitute or nearly so of the necessaries of life, by the soldiers vulgarly called "Grub". Since that eventful period provisions have flowed in apace so that with a few exceptions, complaints on that score would now be unjustifiable and uncalled for. But notwithstanding the removal of this fruitful cause for complaint, do not imagine for a moment that we are resign our precious prerogative as a soldier. We mean the right to grumble. By no means. But is of another deficiency that we speak now, namely the scarcity of intellectual food in the garrison. In fact in the matter of reading matter, we are living on less than one-fourth rations. We need only cite a few instances to prove the truth of our assertion. Take the case of a comrade of ours who, unable to obtain anything else, has gone to reading the Bible as a pastime. Does not this prove the total want of mental sustenance when a soldier voluntarily endeavors to digest such substantial food. Or another instance where a stray copy of Robinson Crusoe has gone from company to company and from hand to hand until with such perpetual thumbing the text is threatened with oblivion. The veritable adventures and hair-breadth escapes of the Originals are nothing to the perils of annihilation he ahs survived here, and were this the only copy in existence we would not answer for its appearance before the world in a new edition again. The sutler also brought a few yellow covered novels with him from the Rio Grande along with his other necessities but they were soon gobbled up and are by this time worn out, their frail bindings failing to secure for them a very long existence in the rough hands of the soldiery.

Of leisure time we have an abundance, more in fact than we know what to do with. Even a Spanish dictionary with the facilities that exist here for acquiring that language, would be an invaluable acquisition, but there is only one at the post that we know of and that could not be had for love or money. Newspapers the greatest luxury of the modern civilization are as rare here as they were in the civilized world two centuries ago. In the way of intellectual entertainment our condition is lamentable, but we see no way of bettering it as present and we suppose our privations on that score will come under the head of "Sacrifices for the good of the Country", Patriotism, &&&&&

Mar. 22nd. The Indians keep coming in clans, reinforcing the rancherias near the garrison almost every day. The report is current in camp that one thousand Indians more are coming in tomorrow. The object is to get them all on a reservation here and keep them. Their arrival at the garrison in small parties suggested the following parody:

We are coming Father Pollock one thousand Indians more,
We are coming for the wheat and beef that you have for us in store
If you look o’er the Parade Grounds you may see us even now,
We are coming to your quarters to have a grand pow-pow.

We are noble looking fellows as we pass I Indian File
See how in our costumes we renounce all modern style
Fashion’s votaries are fools and we’ve voted her a bore,
We are coming Father Pollock "One thousand Indians more".

From the country near and far we are flocking in like sheep
Let others sow whatever they may, we are content to reap.
From the distant mountain glens and the Gila’s winding shore,
We are coming Father Pollock One Thousand Indians more.

Pinals and Sierra-Blancos and Cogoteros too
Are swarming in by hundreds to the new made rendezvous
The gathering of the clans in the tales of Scottish lore
Was nought to the assembling of "One Thousand Indians More".

Mar. 28th. The Express which arrived last night brought orders for the three companies of the 2nd. Cal. Vol. at this post to take up the line of march for California immediately upon the arrival of the Regulars (an event expected to take place daily) for the purpose of being mustered out. Col. Wright left Fort Grant with the other five companies of the regiment on the 10th of the present month, for the same purpose.

Corporal William A. Bushnell,
Co. K, 2nd. Infantry Cal. Vol.
Fort Goodwin, A. T.

April 1st, 1866

April 1st. A scouting party of about 70 men headed by Col. Pollock left this morning for the vicinity of the scene of the outrages recently committed by the Apaches between Fort Grant and Maricopa, in order if possible to punish the marauders. They take with them six days rations, all that can be spared from the Commissary in the present straitened condition of that institution, but upon the arrival of a supply train here another party is to be sent after them with more provisions. Capt. Stewart is in command of the post.

April 2nd. There was a general alarm in the garrison last night, an outbreak of the Apaches being momentarily expected. The rumor that two hundred warriors of the Cogotero tribe intended making a descent on the post, whether well-founded or not had the effect of causing the guard to be strengthened and the vigilance of everybody to be redoubled.

April 5th. Another express left this morning for Tucson consisting of three men- Lieut. Haine and two privates.

April 7th. The post sutler returns from the Rio Grande where he has been nearly two months for supplies for his department.

April 9th. Lieut. Haine, who left here a few days ago for Tucson, returns, having met the train of supplies.

April 10th. A train of supplies arrives at the post.

April 11th. Col. Pollock’s scouting party comes in not having encountered any hostile Indians if any at all. Sergeant Lacy and party also returns from Apache Pass.

April 13th. Express arrives from Apache Pass bringing letters && but nothing definite in regards to our departure from "This festive scene". We have been disappointed so often on that score that we have almost ceased to hope. The signs of the times at present indicate that we will not leave here until the last of the month, at any rate.

April 14th. How are our Indians getting along? We answer; They are doing finely. They now muster for 8 or 9 hundred rations of beef and wheat or corn, daily. The smallest as well as the largest of the tribes draw full rations. Three or four men have steady employment issuing rations. They are motley looking crowd as they assemble at the Commissary of Indian Subsistence at 2:30 P. M. daily and march off with their rations in the direction of their respective rancherias. What a splendid chance would there be here for Harper’s special artist, such sketches as "Issuing Rations", "Muster", and portraits of "Medicine Man", "The Chief". It would be highly entertaining.

April 15th. Express and the train of Commissary supplies arrive from Tucson. They bring the welcome intelligence that there are no regular troops coming to our relief this side of Yuma, that is Fort Yuma.

April 16th. The supply train leaves for Tucson accompanied by three men of our command and Capt. Noyes. The latter is on a sick furlough and the three soldiers are sent to Cal. to be discharged, their terms of service having nearly expired.

April 17th. There was symptoms of a riot this morning among the Indians. The difficulty originated about a blanket. For a while blood seemed imminent as the opposing and contending factions ere in hostile array and only separated from each other by a small raving, a distance of a hundred yards. They mustered their forces to the number of 50 or more men on each side and seemed destined to come into collision when a short "armistice" was agreed upon and after some diplomacy, pacific counsels prevailed. The property in dispute was to be disposed of in the following manner: the two claimants were to take hold of an end of the blanket and divide it between them with their knives, the more dexterous in the use of that weapon, having the best chance. In this manner it was decided, one of the combatants getting a little more than half of the blanket, less than half, getting in addition a smart cut on the face.

April 23rd.

"When fevers burn and agues freeze us,
Rheumatics gnaw and colic’s squeeze us,
Our neighbors sympathize to ease us
With pitying moan.
But thou yhe hell of all diseases
Thou mockst our groan."

So says Burns of the toothache, very justly terming it the hell of all diseases. We venture to say that no one who has not suffered from this painful malady knows how to appreciate its dreadful pangs. Laboring under this direful visitation, all sympathy almost amounts to insult and we feel like accusing the sympathizers of want of respect for our sufferings. What avail it that we change our position every five minutes standing, walking, lying, sitting, it’s all the same. The demon is not thus to be routed. Your change of base moves his not. The delirium of fever extending from the afflicted member to the whole side of the face and from thence to the remotest parts of the system is much more pleasant to contemplate than to endure. If you can manage to catch a short nap your rest is disturbed by small demons with diminutive hammers in their hands knocking away on your jaw trying to displace it. Calm sleep only lives in your remembrance as the recollection of some pleasant dream. At least such has been our experience of the toothache from which we have suffered intensely the last few days, our abhorrence of a visit to the doctor so far surpassing the misery we have endured.

April 24th. Arrived – express from Apache Pass "mail-matter" News- The Regulars are coming - so is the Fourth of July. Query "Which one will get here first? The warmest day of the season 96° in the shade.

April 28th. Arrived - a train of supplies from Tucson, consisting of subsistence for the Indians. Had some fine April showers today accompanied by some old-fashioned thunder which sounded quite old-fashioned and home-like.

April 30th. Parade and muster of all forces at the post. Another supply train arrives from Tucson also a fine drove of beef cattle also the express from Apache Pass. The Regulars are supposed to be between here and Tucson. Allowing such to be the case, we can be relieved and leave here inside of a week.

May 1st. Rain has fallen at intervals for the last three days and the rainy season seem thoroughly inaugurated.

May 9th. 1866 Half a year to a day from the time of our arrival at Fort Goodwin. We took up the line of march for California, marched across the creek and encamped upon its banks opposite the garrison.

May 10th. Fort Goodwin Adios. Farewell to the garrison where we have been stationed for lo these many days for we assure you the time has not passed on eagle wings. On the morning of the tenth just as the sun was gilding the top of Mt. Turnbull we struck tents and were soon on the road.

From Fort Goodwin to Tucson

Our first days march brought us to Cottonwood Creek. Our teams being poor we did not get into camp until 9 o’clock at night, but the command had arrived there at 1 P.M. The first days marching , after so much inactivity tells considerably upon the boys but they bear it cheerfully, as they are homeward bound, and there is a magic in that word that poetry cannot describe. The second day we marched to Eureka Wells, the third day to Oak Grove, a good camping ground with an oak grove stretching away towards the mountains. Antelope are numerous here.

The fourth day we reach Croton Springs. The water here is bad and there is no wood. To our left hand is a continuous mountain range and in those mountains there is said to be "much gold." Rising conspicuously from among the mountain peaks appears "Los dos cabesas" (the two heads). Near those peaks is situated Fort Bowie, otherwise known as Apache Pass, once a stronghold of the Indians. The fifth day we arrived at the Rio San Pedro after a march of 35 miles. The sixth day we reached Mezcal Station. Here we feasted to our hearts content on wild currant and laid over for one day. The seventh days travel brought us to Tucson. The marches have been long and wearisome and the last few days there has been considerable complaint about too much marching, the colonel in command being blamed for it. Riding along the other day on his Beaucephelus a few rods in advance of his men he was heard to remark to fellow officer "The men stand it remarkably well", at the same time throwing a furtive glance back to a soldier by the road-side who had given out from sheer exhaustion and was endeavoring to improvise an awning out of his over an almost leafless mesquite bush. A Few minutes later we passed a fine grove and a few minutes later still the Col. ordered a halt for rest where there no trees and no vestige of shade. Military ability is a great thing. Having been over the road once, of course we did not wee much new this time, the same barren mountains towered on either hand, the same mesquite bush by the roadside sought to detain us with their jagged thorns. The same deer crossed the road just in advance of us. Arriving at Tucson, the same monotony meets us everywhere. The same long line of Mexican carts attached to the same big-horned oxen, pass us in the suburbs of the town. The same adobes stand there as real as ever. Near our former camping ground about a mile from town we encamped for a day or two and the boys indulged themselves to their heart’s content drinking Tucson poison, Tarantula juice, Arizona Lightning &&&. Many of the boys deprived for a long time of the beverage they favored, got unconsciously drunk and in this state many were robbed of what few greenbacks they possessed by a set of harpies in the shape of regular soldiers belonging to the 14th U.S. Inf. Stationed in town. On the 19th of May we left Tucson on our homeward march. A number of men stopped in town as we passed through, got to drinking and before they were aware of it some of the were so much intoxicated as too be unable to travel, and a certain corporal in charge of the rear guard had his hands full that day. Those however whom he could not manage he left by the roadside with sealed orders to join their command as soon as they had slept it off. The next days march brought the sober part of the command to Point of Mountain, 20 miles from Tucson.

May 20th. We did not resume our march until 3 P.M. on the day following our arrival here (Point of Mountain), hoping by this means to cross the desert in the night. About midnight we halted and made coffee.

May 21st. Arrived at Blue Water Station about 9 A.M. Weather terribly warm.

May 22nd. March to our old stamping ground on the Gila, Sacaton. Many Indians, it being part of the Pimo and Maricopa Reservation.

May 23rd. March 12 miles and encamp at Pimo Village or White’s Mills.

May 24th. To Maricopa Wells, same distance as yesterday. Nothing of special importance happened until within a days march of Fort Yuma, when a messenger came to us from the fort with the welcome intelligence that we were to proceed by water from Fort Yuma. The march as a general thing was monotonous enough to make a chapter in a modern novel. IT was with heartfelt joy that we again looked on the turbid waters of the Colorado which we did on the fourth of June having accomplished;

"The long, long march from Sacaton
To where the Gila is no more
But loses itself with a sullen groan
Where Colorado water roar".

We made the march from Fort Goodwin to Fort Yuma in 26 days, a distance of 462 and a half miles. We remained encamped here until the sixth when we went on board the small steamer which was to convey us to the mouth of the Colorado. Though the vessel did not leave her moorings until the morning of the seventh.

Evening of the seventh: We tied up to the bank, went ashore and camped. Disembarked the morning of the eighth at the mouth of the Colorado at 9 P.M. Capt. Noyes who has been absent from his company on a sick furlough, for a couple of months died here a few days ago on his way to San Francisco, and was buried at Point Isabel.

June 10th. After experiencing considerable delay in getting over the Bar at the mouth of the river, we found ourselves in the open water of the Gulf of California. We were five days coming down the gulf. Under different circumstances the trip would have been one to be remembered a lifetime, with pleasure. As it was, we cannot soon forget it. Such a smooth calm and as Byron would say a "deep blue sea". Such splendid star-lit nights. Every evening the soldiers used to assemble on deck in the bow of the vessel to sing songs and amuse themselves as best they might. For ourselves this singing was nothing to the music of our thoughts as leaning over the gunwale we watched the faithful vessel plow her way through the sparkling and phosphorescent waves. After rounding Cape St. Lucas a "change came in the spirit of our dreams and such a change. Head winds, rough seas, sea sickness, indifferent fare, &&&&&. It was one of the happiest days of our lives when we set foot upon Folsom St. Wharf, San Francisco, on the morning of the twenty-third of June, having been 15 days on the water. Same day marched out to the Presidio to be mustered out as soon as the necessary papers can be made.

End of Diary.

Letter to Mr. Patten from Captain William Becknell

2011-07-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Mr. Patten,

If the following narrative of my late tour in the upper province of Mexico, is sufficiently interesting to deserve a place in your columns, you are at liberty to publish it.

On the 5th of November last, I left Santa Cruz with a party of nine men, employed in my service, with a view of trapping on the Green River, several hundred miles from Santa Fe.

In the course of my route towards the point of destination, I passed through the gap in a mountain, which was so narrow as greatly to resemble a gate-way. This mountain, which had the appearance of an artificial mound, was about three or four hundred feet high, and not more than ten feet in breadth at the base. The country here is poor, and only timbered with pine and cedar. I met in this vicinity, several parties of Indians, who were poor and inoffensive. It was, however, reported that some of the Indians who spent some time with us, afterwards committed murders upon the persons of some of the engages of Mr. Prevost of St. Louis, and robbed the remainder. We suffered every misery incident to such an enterprise in the winter season, such as hunger and cold-but were exempted from robbery. The flesh of a very lean horse, which we were constrained to break our fast with, was at this time, pronounced excellent. But when his bones were afterwards served up, as a matter of necessity, they were not as well relished, but had nearly proved fatal to the whole party. We found to our cost, that our stomachs, although tolerably commodiously disposed, were not equal to the task of digesting bones. You can readily imagine, that we were in that deplorable condition where it would be justifiable to adopt the philosophy of the ancient Romans, and give odds to die. But such is not the practice of Missourians. Although we were forty days from settlements, the snow three or four feet deep, and our small stock of horses, our principal reliance for effecting a retreat, considered sacred, so that to have eaten them would have been like dining upon our own feet, we still contrived to supply our tables, if not with the dainties of life, with food of the most substantial kind. For instance, we subsisted two days on soup made of a raw hide we had reserved for sealing our moccasins; on the following morning the remains were dished up into a hash. The young men employed by me had seen better days, and had never before been supperless to bed, nor missed a wholesome and substantial meal at the regular family hour, except one, who was with me when I opened the road to Santa Fe. When afterwards we were enabled to procure indifferent bear meat, we devoured it in that style of eagerness, which, on a review of our operations at this time, very forcibly reminds us of the table urbanity of a prairie wolf.

While at our winter camp we hunted when we could, and the remainder of the time attempted to sleep, so as to dream of the abundance of our own tables at home, and the dark rich tenants of our smoke houses.

In the vicinity of our encampment, I discovered old diggings, and the remains of furnaces. There are also in this neighborhood the remains of many small stone houses, some of which have one story beneath the surface of the earth. There is likewise an abundance of broken pottery here, well baked and neatly painted. This was probably the scite of a town where the ancient Mexican Indians resided, as the Spaniards, who seldom visit this part of the country, can give no account of it.

On our way back to the settlements, we halted at the encampment of a band of Indians, who shocked our feelings not a little by the disposition they were about to make of an infirm (and no longer useful) squaw. When the principal part of the band had left their camp, two of those remaining proceeded to lay the sick woman upon her face, by the side of some of her effects. They then covered her with a funeral pile of pine wood, to which they set fire, and thus made a Hindoo sacrifice of the patient old matron.

As the depth of the snow, and the immense cold of the season rendered trapping almost impracticable, we succeeded, on a third attempt, in making good our retreat from this inhospitable wilderness, and reached a Spanish village on the fifth of April, after an absence of five months.

It was reported in the Spanish settlements, by a man who had been employed by George Armstrong, of Franklin, who accompanied me to Santa Fe, that he had been murdered by the Indians; but I have good reason to believe, and I most sincerely hope, this may be only an idle fabrication.

The trade to this province has been greatly injured by the reduction of prices-white domestics are only fifty cents per yard. An export duty of three per cent. is collected on all specie brought out of the province in this direction. Although my essays have been unfortunate speculations, I am disposed to make another experiment.

I travelled from the Spanish village of Taos, to Fort Osage, on the Missouri, in thirty-four days. I had supplied myself with provisions for the journey consisting of meat, beans & peas. By the route which I travelled on my return, I avoided the so much dreaded sand hills, where adventurers have frequently been forced to drink the blood of their mules, to allay their thirst. Mr. Bailey Hardeman, of this county, was to have set out on his return, accompanied by a large party, on the first of the present month.

I cannot better conclude than by annexing this remark, that the toils endured, and the privations suffered in these enterprizes, very naturally give a tone and relish to the repose and plenty found at the civilized fire side.

WM. BECKNELL