Trail of Tears, October 12 & 13, 1838

 Potawatomi Trail of Death – Diary of William Polke, Oct. 13, 1838:

"This morning as we were on the eve of leaving our encampment, a number of the Indians headed by the chief Ash-kum came up to Head Quarters, and requested an interview with the Conductor and Gen. Morgan. Ash-kum arose and in a short talk informed the Conductor that the Indians were unwilling that Gen. Morgan whom they had been taught to recognize as principal in the emigration, should leave them. They felt, he continued, that Gen. M. was near to them as a protector—he had made them pledges upon which they depended, and the fulfilment of which induced them in part to consent to their emigration.”

“The Indians also requested thro' Ash-kum liberty to travel less and remain longer in camp. Judge Polke answered. He informed them that Gen. Morgan had voluntarily offered his resignation, and that he had been appointed to conduct them to their new homes, with the consent of Gen. M. etc. etc. Gen. Morgan also responded and returned his thanks to the Indians for the interest which they manifested in his welfare.”

“The chief I-o-weh dissented in strong terms from the sentiments expressed by Ash-kum. He stated that these men (alluding to Ash-kum and his associates) were not chiefs—that they were not entitled to respect as such. He wished that Judge Polke should conduct them to their new homes, and that Gen. Morgan should return. He was contented with the Officers remaining with the emigration. The emigration left at 9 o'clock. Gen. Morgan having previously departed. The day was very windy, and the dust exceedingly afflicting. At 3 o'clock we arrived in camp at Clinton—a distance of seventeen miles from See's creek. To-morrow we shall remain in camp.” 

Painting “Eight Potawatomi Natives” by George Winter.


Potawatomi Trail of Death - Diary of William Polke, 12, Oct. 1838:

“Early this morning we prepared for marching, and at 8½ o'clock were under way. We passed through Palmyra at 10, and had little difficulty in preventing the excesses of the Indians. After we arrived in camp, however, two or three Indians were found to have procured liquor, and become much intoxicated. They were immediately arrested and put under guard.”

“We are now encamped on See's creek, thirteen miles from Pleasant Spring (Missouri), the camp of last night. The health of the Indians is considered so good that medicine has not for some time been administered to them. A woman died shortly after we encamped. Subsistence beef and flour. Forage corn and corn fodder. The Indian horses are suffered to graze through the woods. Gen. A. Morgan, who has heretofore been acting in the capacity of Assistant Superintendent in the emigration gave notice that he should offer his resignation to-morrow.” 

Painting "Ten Potawatomi Chiefs" by George Winter.


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