Trail of Tears, October 6 & 7, 1838

Potawatomi Trail of Death - Entries from the diary of Jesse C. Douglas, Enrolling Agent under General Tipton, 7 Oct. 1838:

"Traveled 12 mi. to Mill Creek in Illinois. Preparing to ferry across river to Missouri. A child died.” 

"Eight Potawatomi Women" by George Winter.



Potawatomi Trail of Death - Diary of William Polke, 6 Oct.1838:

“At a little before eight in the morning we left the encampment of last night. During the night we were visited by a fall of rain which rendered the travelling today unusually pleasant. The dust has been completely allayed, and the air much cooled. Water on the route was only to be found in stagnant ponds.

“At three o’clock we reached our present encampment, which from the barrenness of the spot in everything save grass, brush and weeds, we have appropriately named Hobson’s Choice.

“Beef and potatoes were issued to the Indians this evening. Forage, corn and hay. A child died since we came into camp. Distance travelled today eighteen miles.” 

Painting of Pash-Po-Ho by George Winter (excerpt from George Winter’s journal: “Pash Po Ho was an aboriginal gentleman-he was considered the best dressed Pottawattamie Indian in the nation, and was exceedingly graceful when mounted upon his handsomely equipped pony.”)



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