!
' C 76 ]
of that nature. He told me that an highland officer took one of their women as his wife, and went with her into Maryland about Joppa : and they heard, there he fold her a Have like a negro. This he faid, a gentleman in Philadelphia told him : and as they never faw the fquaa afterwards, they were ready to believe that the report was true. If this cafe is fo, and this gentleman could only fee that by his means he has prejudiced the heathens againil: us, am perfuaded he would men- tally retrad: his intelligence with a degree of forrow. Replied, that I never heard it before, yet was perfuaded that it could not be true, that fhe continued a flave ; for if the officer was guilty of fuch a crime, the law of our land allowed no Indians of our country to be flaves, and the ma- gillrates would furely fet her free. But he faid, their people did not know our law, therefore fuch reports made them afraid of us. He fur- ther faid, " What is become of the woman, fhe never came back to us again ?" Replied, that I could not tell, may be fhe did not choofe to come, or fhe might be dead. * By this time, was much difcouraged, and by hardfhips and want of provifions my health and flrength were greatly impaired. No meat could be had here for love or money. Bought milk at nine-pence a quart, and butter at two fhillings a pound, but not near fuf- ficient could be had. From the king, had bought the rump of a deer dried, after their cuf- tom, in the fmoke to preferve it without fait, which made it fo difagree^ble that little could be ufed. Indeed, I had coffee, chocolate and tea, but fugar was fo fcarce, that it could not well be ufed. Defires called for a land, where famine doth not raife her baleful head, « therefore on Sa- turday
me Sa.
turday 20, inquired for a pilateto accompany me towards Ohio. The feafon was feverely cold, fo that the king and captain Killbuck would not fuf- fer me to go, for they faid the weather was fo cold, that it would kill even an Indian. Indeed the feafon was fo intenfely cold, that attempts to travel were impraciicable. My continuance here was very difagreeable ; for though the traders of this town were civil, yet they had no tafte for religion, fo that I was alone without fuitable fuftenance, waiting the permiflion of Providence to depart homewards.
Sabbath 21, this was a remarkable cold day — fome part of it was fpent converfmg with Killbuck on feveral particulars, concerning the belief of the Delaware Indians. 'Twas alked, whether thev believed that there is a God who created all things ? He replied, that this was their common belief. The fecond queflion was, whether they be- lieved that vdien any perfon died, their foul went to a happy (late, or to a (late of mifery ? Replied, this they alfo believed. The third was, whether they knew that Gt)D would by his great power raife up all the dead to life again at the end of this world ? His reply was, that this they knew nothing of, 'till lately they had heard it among the Moravian Indians. Thefe Indians have been fo long acquainted with us, thaf^it is not eafy to determine what they have learned of us.
This day liberty was granted to preach as often as I pleafed, but not having my interpreter, could do little ; for Killbuck would not accept of Jofeph, for, he faid, I might as well not fpeak as to have him, for inftead of faying what I faid, Jofeph would fay what his own heart thought. Though I had better thoughts of Jofeph, foon perceived
that
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A
JOURNAL
O F
TWO VISITS
MADE TO SOME NaTIONS OF
INDIANS
ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE RIVER OHIO,
In the Years 1772 and 1773.
By the Rev. DAVID JONES,
iMInifter of the Gofpel at Freehold, in New- Jersey.
BURLINGTON:
Print^jS and SOLD BY ISAAC COLLINS,
M.DCCLXXIV.
i
4^a"v
2- A
■^-1.
INTRODUCTION.
Kind Reader,
YOU bave in this Journal prefented to your view my travels in two vijits to the Indians on the rivers Ohio and Siota ; in which a defcription is given of this weft em worlds as far as the towns of the Shawannee Indians^ which are fituated weft of the river Siota ; together with what endeavours were made to civilize the Heathens, and my judg- ment on that fuhjeB. It cannot he expeded that a particidar narrative of the occurrences of every day Jhould be given^ becaufe this would render the work voluminous^ a?id too expenfive ; but remarks are made on whatever was thought mofi worthy of no- tice. Perhaps it may be afked^ what motives influ- enced me to undertake a journey attended withfo much expenfes^ hardjhips and fatigue f By reading of the Scriptures it appeared, that the gofpel is to be preached to all nations, and that fome out of all (hall join in the praifes of the Lamb of GO D : feeing but little figns of the kingdoju of CHRIST amon^ us, it was thought that it ??iight be the day of G 0 D's mercy and vifttation of thefe neglected favage nations. And notwithftanding the difcourag- ments met with, I am not yet convinced but fomething might be done for their good, if the attempt was fuitably countenanced, Thoughts relative to this fubjed have been in my mind for feveral years paft,
and
iv INTRODUCTION.
and at times with an ardent defire to try ivhat might be done ; but my circumjiances prevented any attempts till the beginning of thefummer Anno Domini 1772 ; ivhen^ in company with Mr, John Holmes who tra- 'veiled for his healthy I began my firji tour^ and returned from my fecond on the laji of April 1773 ; containing the travels of one year lacking a few days^ including the fpace of near two months between my firJi and fecond journey ,
Concluding it would favour my defign^ and from a defire to officiate in the miniftry^ without dependence upon the people^ had views of fettling on the eaflfide of the river Ohio^ in a province then expeded to take place under the propriety of mejfrs. Franklin, Wharton^ Baynton^ Morgan and others. This in- duced me to take a more extenfive furvey of the country than what otherwife might have been ex- peded ; confequently am enabled to defcrihe this new world more to the fatisfadion of fuch as defire to be acquainted with it. For the gratification of the reader, and the better underftanding of fome para- graphs in the following Journal, it was thought pro- pe^lhus to premife a few things ; believijig that moji readers will enjoy as much pleafure as him that adu- ally paffed through the fcene. It would he efieemed as no f mall compenfation to my hardfhips, if this Journal might be any means of exciting a pious emulation in fome perfon better qualified to engage in the important work of civilizing the poor negleded Heathens ; and if any fhould he fo difpofed, cordially Iwijh God fpeed to the fame ; and remain the reader^ s unworthy fervaftt in the gofpel of Christ.
D. JONES.
if JOURNAL
OF TWO VISITS T O T H E
INDIANS.
MAY 4, Anno Domini 1772, having prepared for my journey, and committed all to the difpofal of Divine Providence, went to Philadel- phia, and converfed with meflrs. Wharton, Bayn- ton and Morgan concerning fettling on the river Ohio ; acquainted them alfo with my defigns of vifiting the Indians. They all were pleafed, and gave me what encouragement was then in their power. Mr. Wharton was fo kind as to recom- mend me to the notice of col. Croghan at Fort Pitt, as he was well qualified, from his long ac- quaintance with the Indians, to be of great ufe to me in profecuting my defign ; and I underftood that Mr. Morgan was fo good alfo as to write to the colonel in my favour. Pleafed with the pre- fcnt profpecls, left Philadelphia, and in order to fee fome kindred and friends, went thro' the pro- vince of Maryland, and on the 10^^ of May came to the chief town of that province, fituated on good navigable v/ater, in the county of Balti- more, which is alfo the name of the town. — 'Tis a town of great bufmefs confidering its age, is connefted in trade with the weflern parts of Penn- fylvania, and appears in a profperous flate. I
was
C 6 ]
was there on the Lord's day, and was favoured with an opportunity of , preaching in the Prefby- terian meeting-houfe, the minifter being abfent. A number of the hearers appeared genteel and very well drefled ; but was forry to fee the beha- viour of fome fo very unbecoming the folemn worlhip of God — from whofe omnifcient infpecli- on nothing can be hid. My hearty wiflies are, that inflead of whifpering, talking and laughing, in the time of divine fervice, all thofe perfons ef- pecially who are in an exalted ftation of life may always conduct themfelves on fuch occafions agreeable to their genteel appearance. — In and near this town are three places of divine worihip, viz. the church of England, the church of Rome, (near of equal credit here) and a Prefbyterian meeting-houfe, the lafl of which makes the beft appearance. When I was there no Baptift meet- ing-houfe was ereded ; but feveral perfons of that perfuafion were confulting to make prepara- tions for one ; and I have been informed that a lot of land is purchafed for that purpofe. Set out from thence May 14^'' ; travelled on a courfe of W. N. W. 60 miles, to an inland town in faid province, called Fredericks-Town ; 'tis fituated on, and furrounded with good land, and a plea- fant country : and though it is fo diftant from navigation, 'tis faid, there are fcarcely any goods in Baltimore or Philadelphia, but what may be had here, on almofl as reafonable terms. This town is much larger than what might be expciSled, perhaps owing to the frugality of the German inhabitants, the greater part confiding of that nation. In this remained only a few hours, tra- velling from thence weflerly to Knowland's ferry on Potomack river. This river is broad but not
deep.
C 7 ] deep, confequently Icfs ferviceable to the weftern inhabitants : it feparates between Maryland and the province of Virginia. The firfl: county adja- cent to this ferry is Loudoun, thro' this a tour was made, in which I enjoyed opportunities of preaching, thereby gaining fome knowledge of the people and country. From what I faw in that county, fmall encomiums fuit the moil part of it. Indeed the country is well watered ; but poor pafture, and few good meadows, and many bar- ren hills may be readily met with. Within a few years pad God has remarkably bleffed the gof- pel here. To that it may be charitably judged that many are brought to the faving knowledge of Christ. Was agreeably entertained with the truly grave afpeft of religion, and cannot but commend that godly fmcerity that appeared among the profefling difciples of Jesus ; though 'tis to be feared that many yet remain ftrangers to the love of God.
Having fpent what time was thought expedi- ent here, fet out for Winchefter on Tuefday 19 ; crolTed the Blue Ridge at Sniggar's gap. Wag.- gons do pafs over, but the mountain is both ftcep and jftony, which renders the tranfporting of pro- duce this way almoft impradical. The top of this ridge is faid to divide between Loudoun and Fredericks county. Here we crofled Shannadore, which is a flream near 100 yards wide. Before night came to Winchefter, which is the chief town of Fredericks county. Near to this town, on the eaftern fide, is to be feen the remains of a fortification, erefted in time of the laft war, and from its appearance muft have been very expen- five : a number of large cannons are ftill remain- ing on and about the walls.
Wednesday
n' I
■ [ 8 ]
Wednesday 20 fet out for Fort Pitt. It was faid the neareft way was by the fouth branch of Po- tomack. Pafled this day over difmal ftony moun- tains, the greateft part not commodious to be inha- bited by man. Lodged at an innkeeper's, whofe name is Murphy, about fevea miles from Rumney, which is the chief town of Hampfhire county.
Thursday 21 come to Rumney, and there took breakfaft. This town is fituated on the fouth fide of the fouth branch of Potomack, and confifls of a few log houfes and a gaol ; nor is it likely from its fituation that ever its appearance will be great. From hence v/e went up the flream to colonel Haight's ; mofh of the road went along a narrow bottom adjacent to the branch ; nor does the land, in common, extend to any confi- derable diftance fit for any manner of cultivation. When we arrived to colonel Haight's, we found r^,^ him agreeably fituated, and may juflly fay that he , appeared hofpitable, kind and courteous.
Friday 22 fet out ftiWH Patterfon's creek, / where I fpeht the Sabbath ; preached to a fmall congregation coileded from the fcattered fettle- ment, which is along this creek. — Hampfliire is the moft northern county of Virginia, and when I was there no minifler was fettled in it ; but foon after, 'tis faid, a clergyman of the church of England arrived.
Monday 25 from Mr. Johnfon's proceeded on our way. This day pafled the north branch of Potomack, which is the northern bounds of Vir- ginia. The road is cut along the declivity of a mountain, and the defcent exceeds moft to be feen ufed as a road. This day we began to afcend that mountain from others diftinguifhed by name Allegini. Foreigners are much miftaken con- cerning
C 9 ]
cernlng this mountain, for it is commonly thought that we afcend from one part till near the middle we arrive to the fummit, and from thence defcend to the foot — whereas in afcending we are near as high in going tetl miles, as in an-y part of it. This mountain is truly worth notice, great part of which abounds with excellent timber ; in general either oak, chefnut or white pine, variegated according to the nature of the foil. That part of it called Savage Mountain is beau- tifully covered with ftately white pines, which promife great advantage to the weflern colony in procefs of time. In pafling this mountain we crofs many cryftal flreams, the principal are called the Little and Great Croffings. The firft of which is between 15 and 20 yards wide, and the other about 60 at Mr. Hoagland's : with more propriety thefe llreams are called Little and Great Yochogini. They unite and empty them* felves into Monongehela, fouth of the place where general Bradock was defeated : the Laurel Hill is about ten miles wide, and is only the weftern part of the fame mountain ; but one reafon why it is fpoken of as a diftinft place may be, the level land lying eaflward, in breadth near ten miles : in this are fituated the Great Meadows where Wafhington was defeated ; the intrenchment ufed on that occafion yet appears.
This mountain * runs a fouth wefterly courfe, and is at prefent inhabited in many places. Tho' part of the foil is fo cold and fubjedt to frofts, that little grain can be expeded ; yet it is faid that grain of all forts is produced on the Great
B Croffings.
* The whole hilly country called the Allegini Mountain is faid to run a fouth weft courfe, and terminates between South Carolina and Mifliflipi.
C 10 ]
Croffings. In moft places the foil is good for grafs and meadows. 'Tis very probable that it alfo abounds with various mines, and if fo, it will be of great utility to the adjacent colonies. It is faid to be fixty miles acrofs it, as we travel from Fort Cumberland to Redftone. Thro' the whole as you travel, may lodge every night in feme kind of houfes ; but the entertainment is a little rough, for fuch as are but ftrangers to the new country. In this an amendment may be juftly expefted, for a number of frugal and civil people are preparing good accommodations, both for man and horfe. When we defcend the Laurel Hill, which is both fleep and flony, we come into that country which is known in diflant places by the name of Redftone. This name cannot pro- perly be applied to the greater part of this land, for Redftone is a creek, and the land adjacent makes a very fmall part of that country. This fettlement abounds with more creeks than can properly be mentioned here. /Thefe all empty into the river commonly called Monongehela, the proper name of which, according to the In- dian pronunciation, is Mehmonawangehelak^ which fignifies, Falling in Bank River. From the richnefs of the foil, the banks of this river frequently break, and fall into the ftream ; hence it takes its name. This river comes from the fouth, and fixty miles before it arrives to Fort Pitt, it is 200 yards wide. Several ferries are kept on it, tho' it may frequently be rode in the fummer feafon. On each fide of this river, a- long the creeks, are fettlements amounting to many thoufand inhabitants in the whole. — In this country preached at feveral places, and made known my purpofe to vifit the Indians,/ Met with
an
[ 'I ]
an interpreter here well qualified to fpeak the Delaware's language; his name is David Owens : agreed with him to interpret for five pounds per month — the wages may feem high, but none vi^ho are well qualified will engage for lefs. He informed n^e, that it was neceflary to fend an ambaffador before us, to know if our vifit would be acceptable. This appeared reafonable, there- fore employed an Indian who lived with him to carry a fpeech and letter to the king and chiefs of the Delaware Indians. In this new fettlement feveral houfes for v/oriliip are already erecled, one Baptift church conftituted, to which I admi- niftered the Lord's fupper. It was truly pleafing to behold the worfhip of God here, in a land fo lately overfpread with heathenifli darknefs and univerfal ignorance of God. Who could have expeded fuch a change ! but all things are pof- fible with God ! May we not hope to fee the time when the knowledge of him fhall cover the whole earth ! It has been his will to favour this new world with a day of divine power, in which it is hoped, a number are brought to the know- ledge of Christ ; nor has he left them without minifterial fupplies. The reverend Ifaac Sutton, a man of an amiable character, is an ordained minifler among them. Befides him, at fome dif- tance there are three candidates for the miniftry, whofe names are meif. John Corbly, John Swing- lar and John Whitticur. Was favoured with an opportunity of hearing each ; their gifts ap- peared ufeful for the edification of the church of Christ. The country along Monongehela is very fertile, exceeding mod to be met with in the eaftern colonies. It is certain that part of it is too rich for wheat, though other parts produce
it
[ 12 ]
it tolerably well. Corn and potatoes are raifed to admiration. A perfon of credit at Muddy Creek faid, that one large potatoe cut into feveral pieces produced the firft year one bufhel and an half ; the fecond year the return was fixty-four bufhels ; neither was any dung ufed, for the ^^rth is fuf- ficiently flrong without it. The timber, which infills of black and white oak, walnut and wild cherry, indicates the fertility of the foil.
Tuesday June 2, parted with my interpreter, who agreed to meet me at the river Ohio ; went on my way towards Fort Pitt ; arrived fafe on Thurfday June 4 ; preached by the way at Turkle Creek ; took a view of the fort — it is lituated where the rivers Monongehela and AUegini meet : from thence the united flream is called Ohio, which fignifies a fair, gentle or pleafant river. The Shawannees call it Fellewaa TJjeepee^ i. e. Tur- ky River. At this time the fortification was re- maining, but fomewhat impaired. Here were about eighty foldiers with one commanding offi- cer. It is faid the ereding of this fort coft the crown £, 100,000 flerling : by fome orders in the fall, it was demoUfhed and abandoned. Eall, at about 200 yards diftance, by the Monongehe- la, there is a fmall town chiefly inhabited by In- dian traders, and fome mechanicks. The army was without a chaplain, nor was the town fupplied with any minifler. Part of the inhabitants are agreeable and worthy of regard, while others are lamentably diflblute in their morals. — Went to fee colonel Croghan ; was received by him very courteoufly ; next day dined with him ; his habi- tation was then four miles from Fort Pitt up the AUegini river — confulted with him about my vifit to the Indians j found him well difpofed, and
willing
[ '3 ]
Willing to aflifl ; was pleafed to hear the colonel fpeak on matters relative to religion. He was kind enough to make me a prefent of a bear's fkia to fleep on, a belt of wampum to prefent to the Indians, and 60 pounds of bifcuit to fupply me in my journey. This I muft fay, that the colonel a6:ed the generous, kind gentleman. Part of the- time at Fort Pitt, was kindly entertained by Mr. Aneas Mackay, who is deputy commifTary here ; have reafon to fpeak of this gentleman as the apoftle Paul did of Onefiphorus.
Tuesday I June 9, left Fort Pitt in company with Mr. George Rogers Clark, and feveral others, who were difpofed to make a tour through this new world. We travelled by water in a canoe, and as I laboured none, had an opportunity of obferving the courfes of the river. It would be too tedious to give a particular account -, it may fuffice to be more general, and refer the curious reader to a map * expeded foon to be publifhed by mellrs. Hutchins and Hooper. It may be ex- peded that this performance will be accurate, as greatefl part will be done by actual furvey. As Mr. Hooper favoured me with the diftances of places, the calculations are theirs. || — From Fort Pitt the river Ohio runs about fifteen miles near a N. W. courfe ; thence near N. about 14 miles; then it makes a great bent for about 20 miles running a little S. of W. thence for near 20
, miles
X Here I parted with Mr. Holmes who returned to New- Jerfey.
* By requeft of Mr. Hooper I take fubfcriptions for this map at a piftole each.
II Mr, Hooper told me that by a more exaft furvey mads by him, he found the diftance between Little and Great Canhawa to be confiderably^more than is fpecified iff Mr, Hutchins's calculation. "
[ '4 3 miles S. E. to the place called the Mingo town, where fome of that nation yet refide. Some of this town were wont to plunder canoes, therefore we pafled them as quietly as poflible ; and were fo happy as not to be difcovered by any of them. From this town to Grave Creek is about thirty miles, and the river, taking the meanders of it, may be faid to run a little W. of S. Met here with my interpreter, who came acrofs the coun- try from the waters of Monongchela, and with him fome Indians, with whom I had a little con- verfation. This night my bed was gravel flones by the river fide. From Fort Pitt to this creek we were only in one houfe inhabited by white people. All the way our lodging was on the banks of the river, which at fir (I did not fuit me, but cuflom made it more agreeable.
Saturday June 13, moved to a creek by the Indians called Caapteenin^ i. e. Captains Creek* This creek comes into the river from the weft fide, and is fuppofed to be about 75 miles E. S. E. from Newcomer's town, which is the chief town of the Delaware Indians. We encamped oppofite to Caapteenin on the eaft fide of Ohio. Here were fome families of Indians — we went over and converfed with them, and in the even- ing fome of them returned the vifit. Mr. Owens was well acquainted with fome of them, and let them know what fort of a man I was. They all fhewed refped to me ; even when fome of them afterwards were drunk, they were civil to me, and would take me by the hand and fay, " You " be minjia.^* Here we fpent the Lord's day : in the evening inftrudlcd what Indians came over. The moft intelHgent auditor is called Frank Ste- phens. He could fpeak no Englifh, but in this
pouit
[ 15 ] point, was at no lofs when Mr. Owens was with me. In this interview, fpoke on many fubje^ls, and alked feveralqueflions, among others, whether he beUeved that after death there is a ftate of eternal happinefs and of mifery ? he replied, this he believed — he proceeded and faid, " he con- fidered God as the Giver of all good things ; if he killed a deer he thought Goi> gave him that good luck." What he faid on this fubjeft raifed mv expectation, for we know that man is more prone to forget the providence of GoD, than his exiftence. While many things were faid con- cerning God, he gave great attention. At this, time I felt myfelf much diftrelTed how to fpeak fo as to make him fenfible of the way and man- ner that we received the fcriptures from God. At lafl thefe ideas arofe in my mind, which were communicated in words to this efreft, viz. *' Long ago, oh ! very long ago : fometimes at one time, and fometimes at another time, God had good men on the earth ; and by his great power, God did fo confine the imagination of thefe good men, that at that time they could think nothing but what God would have them think.* And while they were thus under this great power of God, they wrote the fcriptures, which tell us all things that we fhould believe concerning God, and all things that we ihould do to pleafe him. This was the fame as if God hadfpoken himfelf." — This I muft fay, though I have firmly for many years paft believed that the holy fcriptures were given by infpiration of God, yet never had before a deeper fenfation of their exalted dignity. What a mercy is it that we are thus direded of God I how awful mufl the cafe of fuch be, who either defpife or ne-
glea
* 2 Pet. 1. and 21.
[ i6 ]
gled inftrudions from heaven itfelf ! — ^What was faid on this fubjeQ: much affedted Frank, who repUed, " that he behevedlong ago Indians knew how to worfhip God, but as they had no writings they had loft all knowledge of him : yet fome- times fome of them tried to worfhip him, but knew not whether their fervices were pleafmg to him or not ;" and indeed this muft have been the cafe with all, had not God been pleafed to reveal his will to us ; for no man hath feen him ; but fays the Evangehft, " the only begotten Son, " which is in the bofom of the Father, he hath " declared him," This brought to mind, what formerly had been quoted in converfation from a certain author, viz. " a philofopher was de- manded by an emperor to give an anfwer to two queftions ; the firft was, whether there is a God ? having proper time given to ruminate on the fubjeft, returned an anfwer in the affirmative : the fecond was, how to worfhip God accepta- bly ? after due deliberation anfwered, that this never could be known, except God is pleafed to reveal it himfelf." Seeing that this is the cafe, from hence it appears, how exa£l we fhould be in all our religious obedience to God ; and never deviate from the directions given us in the holy fcriptures : for all additions, though under the fpecious name of decency and order, muft be an abomination in the fight of God.*
By this time we were furrounded by the even- ing ftiades, and repofe demanded an end to the prefent interview — informed Frank, that it was the cuftom of good white folks to pray to God, before they went to fleep — that we were now go- ing to pray, and would pray for him — and tho'
he
* Luke xvi. and 15.
C 17 3
he underftood not what was faid, yet may be God would give him good thoughts while I was fpeaking. With this we all rofe up to pray ; the Indians rofe likewife, being previoufly inform- ed by the interpreter. With a folemn ' heart and voice addreffes were made to God. — Was in- formed that during the time the Indians looked very ferioufly at me. When prayer was ended, Frank told my interpreter, that my voice affefted his heart ; that he thought I fpoke the fame way that our Saviour did when he was on earth. It is likely that this Indian had heard of our Saviour from the Moravians or their Indians. It was faid by Mr. Owens, that it was common among the Delawares, to mention tlie name of our Saviour : but the cafe is otherwife among the Shawannees. An anfwer was expeded here by the ambalfador fent to the chief town of the Delaware Indians ; but a trader having brought rum, all profpeds of doing good by any longer continuance, were at an end ; and the ambalfador delaying his return, concluded to go down to the Little Canhawa, to view the land. This was near 70 miles below, and from Grave Creek to the Little Canhawa, the river Ohio may be faid to run S. W. but it is very crooked, turning to many points of compafs. Tuesday 16, fet out for the Little Canhawa, and arrived to it on Thurfday 18. This ftream comes from the E. and is near 150 yards wide at the mouth. Went up this about ten miles ; found, though it was deep at the mouth, that the falls were fo fhallow, that our canoes were pre- vented pafling further. Went out to view the land on each fide, and to kill provifions. Mr. Owens killed feveral deer, and a flately buffalo bull. The country here is level, and the foil not
C defpifable.
[ i8 ]
defplfable, though not equal in quality to fome other places. It is not well watered, confequently. not the moil promifmg for health. In feveral places the higheft land is well adorned with flate- ly pine trees ; and yet the foil did not appear too poor to produce good wheat.
Wednesday 24, fet out for Caapteenin again. On our way had fome bad weather ; viewed the land in many places ; foil generally good ; level land but narrow ; good fettlements may be made on feveral creeks ; fome were well watered ; fifli in great abundance 5 fome of which we were fo happy as to take.
Tuesday 30, came fafe to Caapteenin. Here was an Indian fent to me from the Delaware's town, who gave intelligence that their council were not all at home — that they were confider- ing the matter, and in a little time fhould hear from them again. This anfwer would have been better underftood, had I known them as well then as now. Being indifpofed in ftomach, which fre- quently occafioned vomiting after eating meat, and this being our chief fuftenance, was reduced to great weaknefs, and was in much need of nouriihment better adapted to my condition ; therefore moved up to Grave Creek, leaving there our canoes ; croffed the defart to Ten Mile Creek, which empties into Monongehela. It was thought the way we travelled made our journey between 50 and 60 miles before we came to the houfe of Mr. Owens. The feafon was very warm ; all except myfelf had loads to carry, fo that on the id day of July with much fatigue, we arrived to the inhabitants, faint, weak, weary and hungry — efpecially Mr. Clark and myfelf. . No viduals was ever more acceptable than fome buttermilk
given
[ '9 ] given by the kind inhabitants, which greatly raifed my efleem of cows. Stayed at Mr. Owens's over the Lord's day, and preached to a fmall congregation. To recruit ftrength, remained in the fettlement, and preached next Lord's day near George's Creek on Monongehe!a to about two hundred hearers.
About this time afecond meffenger came from the Indians, giving inteUigence that fome of the chiefs would foon be at Fort Pitt, where a more particular account would be given, &c. At thi^ time many of the inhabitants were near a famine, occafioned by the multitudes lately moyed into this new country ; fo that it was only through favour that fupplies were obtained to make ano- ther tour in the wildernefs.
Tuesday July 14, in company with mefTrs. Clark, Higgins and my interpreter, fet out for Fort Pitt ; and as it was fometime before the In- dians would be at Fort Pitt, took another tour through the defarts to Ohio. Preached on the Lord's day in a cabbin near to a creek called Weeling, to about 15 auditors. In the afternoon having fent word, a few Indians met me, one of which was Frank Stephens. Having all fet down on deerfkins prefented to us for that purpofe by the Indians, addrefled them on thefe fubjeds, viz. I. The flate in which God created man. 2. His fall. 3. The promife of a Saviour ; his com- ing and fufferings. 4. The work of God in re- newing our fouls to quahfy us for heaven, and enabling us to believe on the Saviour. "On this occafion was very fenfible of the great difficulties of fpeaking on fuch important fubjeds to thefe poor heathens, who were ftrangers even to the hif- torical accounts thereof. After due deliberation
fpoke
[ 20 3
fpoke to this efFeft, viz. " You fee, my brothers, that man is now very bad ; he does many bad things ; he has a wicked and bad heart : but when Goi) made him at firft he was all good, all love. Then he loved God, and loved one another, God faid to him, if you will only obey me, you fhall always live in a happy ftate ; but if you difobey, you ihall furely die, and be mife- rable. But afterwards man thought, may be, he might be happy and not die, even if he dif- obey ed God. Then he did that which God told him he fhould not do. But oh ! immediately he lofl all his good, and became very bad, having no love to God, nor tg one another. In this ftate God looked on him and faid, ah ! you have difobeyed, and would not believe me : you mull now die, and you deferve to fuffer for-ever : yet I have companion on you, though you do not de- ferve it, and will fend you a Redeemer. After a long time the Redeemer came, and fo great was his love for us, that he himfelf in our ftead endured all the punilhment due to our tranfgrelfions, in order to make peace between God and us. Now God faith that all that believe on this Saviour fhall be happy for-ever. And to prepare us for that happinefs, God by his great power changes the temper of the hearts of all that believe : then they love God and one another. God takes de- light in them, and when they die he takes them up into heaven to be forjfever with himfelf." — Some white people befides my own company wereprefent : it was obfervable, that fome of them were more affected than when they had been more immedi- ately addreffed. By what appeared expectations were raifed ; but thefe Indians had no further opportunities, being in time of the fecond vifit down Ohio with my interpreter.
[ 21 ]
Monday July 20, fet out for Fort Pitt ; had a fmail path called Catfiih's Road, which led us through the country between Ohio and Mo- nongehela ; had the pkafure of feeing a large extent of good land, but few inhabitants ; it is fomewhat uneven, but moft part habitable. — Came to Fort Pitt on Wednefday July 22 ; re- mained about fix days ; had an opportunity of converfing with feveral principal Indians of differ- ent nations : they all (poke very agreeably, and fcemed pleafed v/ith. my intentions of inftru^ting them. It is polTible that thefe men were honefl ; but am now fo well acauainted with Indian deceit as to know, that when they are among us, to pre- tend to love what will beft recommend them, is their common practice. Being informed that it was fome time before any further intelligence could be had refpeOiing my vifit : therefore wrote another letter to the Delaware king and chiefs of the nation, informing them, that I had been long from home ; could (lay no longer at prefent ; but they might expert me out again in the fall. This was interpreted to one of the chiefs, and with it a belt of wampum delivered with a fpeech. Was informed all were delivered carefully j but faw not the perfon in my fecond vifit.
July 28. parting with all friends at Fort Pitt^ fet out for the Jerfeys ; paffed through the fet- tlement of Monongehela, preaching in various places ; came to my own houfe in the latter end of Auguft ; found all well, through the kind providence of God, who doth always preferve us through all the dangers of life.
Health was fo much impaired by the great fatigue of this journey, that it was with reluftance a fecond was undertook ; but fearing the bad con-
fequences
[ " 3
fequences of difappointing the Indians, was re- folved to proceed on all events. Left my houfe and family on the 26^'' of Odlober all well, but alas ! all of them I never faw more. My parting at this time went fo to my heart, that it feemed as if this journey fhould finifh my days on earth. It was like death itfclf, but for my word's fake wo-uld go : but had it been known how little in reality the Indians cared for my vifit, might have contented myfelf at home.
For the conveniency of carrying provifions, and as a defence againfl llorms, went this time in a covered waggon, in company with a perfon de- firous to fee the new country, with a view of fettling there. Our carriage rendered our journey lefs expeditious, and in the event proved confide- rable lofs to me ; for the axletree broke in the Allegini mountain, going down to the Great Croffings — parted with it on fuch difadvantageous terms, that about five pounds lofs was fuftained. Met with difcouragements alfo while in Philadel- phia, for there fome money was expected to pay my interpreter, but none could be had, only one gen- tleman, as I parted with him, put three or four dollars in my hand. Some were fo good as to trufl me a fmall fum in fuch goods as were necef- fary for my journey. — It filled me with fome afto- nifhment to fee profelfed chriflians fo unconcerned about the converfion of the heathens ! When the Son of Man cometh, (hall he find faith on earth !
Messieurs Baynton and Morgan were kind enough to furnifh me with fome neceifaries for my journey, and it is hoped that it will not incur difpleafure to give credit for their generoiity. We travelled fo flow, and could make fo little way over the Allegini mountain, that we arrived not to
Redflone
[ 23. ] Redflone till* November 17. A few days before me the Revd. John Davis came here, intending to go with me to Ohio. It furprifed me to fee him fo much impaired in his health. Converfed, and found him refolved to go with me, at leaft as far as Ohio. Endeavoured to difluade him from his purpofe, fearing the event, (which in time came to pafs) but could not prevail ; there- fore confented, intending fubmiffion to the will of God. When we came to the houfe of my inter- preter, fourwl that fome time before our arrival he had, in company with. gbme Delaware Indians, gone far down Ohio ; he left word that I might find him about the Shawannee towns, or fome where along Ohio. This was very difcouraging, as I knew of none fo well qualified as himfelf to an- fwer my purpofe. Excited with hopes of fmding him, in company wit^Mr. Davis and fome more, fet out for the river Ohio ; but by high waters, and bad flormy weather, our journey was fo retarded that we arrived not to Ohio till Dec. 2. When we came to the houfe of Dr. James M^ Mechen, formerly neighbour to Mr. Davis, he feemed to forget his complaints, and his heart ivas exhilarated upon feeing his old acquaintance, and the river Ohio, after fuch a tedious journey. But alas ! dear man, his time was fhort, for on the 13^*" day of faid month, he departed this life, and left me his remains to commit to the earth. My diflrefs was not fmall on this occafion, for materials to make a coffin, and a fpade to dig the grave. Was relieved by hearing that in a cabin at fome diflance there were fome fawed boards, and a fpade could be had in going about eight miles. Having got the materials, and af- Yifted by a man a little ufed to tools, made him a
coffin.
C n ] ^
coffin. Happily I had carried fome nails with me, fo that he was buried with fome decency. During the time of his illnefs, he was very fubmiiTive to the will of God ; and was fo far from the fear of death, that he was often heard to fay, " Oh ! " that the fatal blow was (truck !" He had a complication of diforders, and all medicines ufed either by Dr. M*^ Mechen or myfelf feemed to have none effed. When he drew near his lall, he was very delirious, and could give few rational anfwers, tho' he ftill knew me, and w^uld always have me by him, till all fenfes failed. To compofe him a little, gave him a ftrong anodyne, which had fo much effed:, that for about fifteen minutes he enjoyed the ufe of his reafon. In this time he told me, that he firmly believed the loca- lity of heaven — that in a little time he expected to be with Christ, and fee and know him as he is now known^ and as he is not known. He faid his faith in his Saviour was unJJmken, Then he made as humble addreffes to God, as ever I heard drop from mortal lips. Soon after his de- lirium returned, and never remitted more. On the 13^^ of December 1772, being the Lord's day, about an hour and an half before the fun fet, this great man took his final departure from this v/orld of forrows. Alas ! what devaflations and deftru£tion has sin brought upon the human race \ that the wife, the reverend head mufl re- turn to duft ! and can we who are alive, love fo mercilefs an enemy! forbid it Lord ! — Mr. Davis, it is well known, was a great fcholar, polfefTed of a good judgment, and very retentive memory. He had truly a great foul, and defpifed any thing that was little or mercenary. In our journey he told me one reafon why he left Boflon was, be-
caufe
[ ^5 ] caufe he abhorred a dependent life and populari- ty : that if God continued him, he intended to fettle in this new country, where he could preach the gofpel of his Saviour freely. His addrefs, in all his religious, performances was eafy, fweet and pleafmg : his private converfation both in- forming and engaging; though at times he was a little referved, yet it was only when not fuited. And what exceeds all, I believe he was a humble difciple of our blefled Saviour. In this point, was more confirmed by converfmg with him in our jcuriiey, than what I had been in any part of former acquaintance.
Being confcious that poetry is not my gift, yet as the following verfes are exprefTrve of Mr. Davis's faith, thought it not amifs to infert them here, as an epitaph to that worthy man, viz.
How learn'd, how fam'd, now avails me not ! By whom admir'd, or by whom begot ! Ohio's bank my body now confines In fafe repofe, till Christ in triumph fhines ; But v/hen the laft trump's alarming found Shall fhake the foundations of the ground : And Christ in full glory fhall defcend. The rights of pure juflice to defend : Then in bright honour fhall this body rife. To meet my dearefh Lord up in the Ikies.
The remains of this worthy man are interred near a brook, at the north end of the level land adjacent to Grave Creek : about fixteen feet N. of his grave flands a large blackoak tree ; on this the name of Mr. Davis, the date of the year, and day of the month, are cut with my tomme-
D hock.
[ .6 ]
hock. This is the prefent monument ; but Dr. M^ Mechen intended a tomb for him. He v/as the firft white man buried in this part of the country, but not long after a child was laid by him. Here a Baptiji meeiing-houfe is defigned, as the mofl central place in this part of the country. When Mr. Davis's death was known at Philadel- phia, a young gentleman there, who had a tender regard for him, was pleafed tp publilli his chara6:er in the publick prints, February i, 1773. Having obtained leave, thought proper to infert it here, viz. " By advife from OUio we learn, that upon the 13^^ of December, the Reverend John Davis, A. M. fellow of Rhode-IJJand college^ and one of the members of the American philofo- phical fociety, died there, after an illnefs of three weeks, in the 36^'' year of his age. Having completed his education in the college of this city^ he was appointed one of the mafters of the academy at Newark in New-caftle county, from whence, upon entering the miniflry, he removed and became pastor of the fecond Baptiji church in Bojlon, His health being im- paired, he returned in the latter end of lafl: fummer, hoping to receive benefit from his native air. A number of people in the neighbourhood being about to fettle on the Ohio^ he accompanied them, feeming defirous with the Reverend David Jones^ to undertake a vlfit to the wejiern Indians ; but death flayed
his progreis !-
" Tu'E. powers of his mind v^'txt firong from na- ture^ but much improved by a judicious educa- tion andjiudy. He was a clear reafoner^ which faculty was much afTifted by his favourite pur- fuit, the mathematicks ; not deficient in genius^
" he
[ 27 ] ' he relifhed, with more than common fatlsfac- ' tion, the writings of antiquity^ and the mofl ' ingenious of the prefent age. He was an enter-
* taining companion ; pofTelTed of uncommon calm-
* nefs of temper. In his preachings he endeavour- ' ed to reach the underjianding of his audience. ' Educated in the genuine principles of liberty^
* he felt with the keeneft fenfibility for the ' opprefjed. And when his duty called him, with ' a manly and 'virtuous boldnefs defended them. ' A Ihort life can afford but few opportunities ' for publick aElioyi^ but when we find a youth ' (landing forth a champion of the common rights ' of humanity s the reverence due to worthy cha- ' ra6lers demands our teflimony in his behalf, ' whilfl we lament our lofs."
No fcene of life pad: at that time more affected me than the death of Mr. Davis ; but fmce that, met with fomething that touched my foul more to the life, as will appear at the clofe of thts journal. At this time my health was greatly impaired, and now having loll my good friend, had thoughts of returning home, While ruminating on this fub- jecl, a canoe came along bound for the Shawan- nee towns. It partly belonged to Mr. John Irwine, an Indian trader, with whom I was acquainted. It was 60 feet in length, and at leall 3 feet in breadth ; fitted out with fix hands and deeply loaden. The name of the chief hand is James Kelly, who offered to take me along. Refolved to go, fuppofing that travelling by water might be a means of refloring health ; hoping alfo that I might meet with my interpreter.
December 27, in the morning parted with my brother and other friends, committing the event to Providence \ fet out in my voyage to the Sha-
wannee
t ^8 ]
^annee towns. The weather was fnowv and fe- vere., yet being lapped up in blankets received no damage. At night encamped on the weft fide of Ohio, and by the alliflance of a large fire, flept more comfortably than could be imagined, by thofe who are ftrangers to fuch lodging. '
Monday 28, the wind blowing from the S. made the river fo rough, that moft part of the. day it was impofTible to travel. It is faid by the traders, that the v^'^ind almofl univerfally blows up Ohio, efpecially in winter, nor do \ remember it otherwife : if this continues to be the cafe, it muil be of great advantage to trade on this river. Perhaps it would puzzle the greatell philofopher to ailign a natural caufe for the wind's blowing up this ftream in the winter; but it is plain Providence has fo ordered it. At evening Mr. Kelly concluded, that as the Vv^ind abated, it was duty to continue at the oars all night : therefore we fet out, <ind it was thought by morning we were about eighth miles below the little Canhawa. This night was feverely cold — ^the canoe was loaded near eigh- teen inches above its fid^s ; on this was my lodg- ing. Though well furnifhed with blankets, was afraid my feet would have been frozen. It may be well fuppofed that thoughts of fleep in fuch apparent danger were[not the moft pleafmg ; for moving a fev/ inches in fleep, would have made the bottom of Ohio to be my bed. Many thoughts arofe in my mind what might be the event : at laft believing that God had a command of my thoughts in fleep, and could keep me from dream- ing or ftarting in my fleep, committed all into his hand, and flept without fear. In the morning found myfelf fafely preferved, through the care of him whofe tender mercies are over all the works of his hands.
C 29 ]
Tuesday 29, the wind being contrary, travelled little.
Wednesday 30, the morning being pleafant, fet out for the Great Canhawa, pafl'ed Hockhock- ing, which is a pretty large creek, coming from the wefl fide of Ohio. Several creeks came in from the eaft fide, fome of which were paiTed in the night ; the land paiTed in the day time in ge- neral appeared good and level : about break of day, palled the mouth of the Great Canhawa ; this is a great* river, that comes from the borders of Virginia, and is faid to be about 300 yards wide at the mouth. The land about this river is efteemed very good, and it is faid the feat of go- vernment will be liere ; but perhaps the Great Guiandat v»ill be found beft for the metropolis. The mouth of this river, according to the calcu- lation of Mr. Hutchins, is 226 miles below Fort Pitt, but his alliflant Mr. Hooper, by adual fur- vey, told me, he found it much more — traders efleem it 2j;o. This morning took breakfafl of chocolate, ufmg rum as an ingredient inftead of milk, and feemed very ufeful here in the wilder- nefs, v/here fiefn was our chief provifion.
Thursday 31, fet out for Great Guiandat. — The river Ohio in general bore a S. W. courfe and a little more wefterly : but it is very crooked in many places. This day being fair and pleafant, we travelled a great diftance, fo that the day fol- lowing about 1 1 o'clock we pafled the mouth of Great Guiandat, being January i, 1773. This creek is very large, and it is faid that it originates from Clinch Mountain, which feparates it from Holfton river ; and, according to information, is fituated well of the fouthern parts of Virginia, If falls do not prevent, from the appearance of
this
[ 30 ] this creek, it may be navigable for a great diflance for canoes and fuch fmall craft. Here the land appears charming and level, well fupplied with fine blackoak timber ; and was informed, that it abounds with extraordinary fprings, efpecially about the branches that make this creek. In this part of the country, even in the winter feafon, paflurage is fo good, that creatures are well fup- plied without any afliitance. Here are a great abundance of buffaloes, which are a fpecies of cattle, as fome fuppofe, left here by fdtmer inha- bitants. To fuch as travel this country it is moil evident, that it has formerly been inhabited by fome people, who had the ufe of iron. I have been informed by fundry perfons, that up fome of thefe creeks, a pair of mill-flones are to be feen, where it is probable formerly a mill flood. Below this creek's mouth the bank of Ohio feems near one hundred feet higher than the furface of the water in common ; fo that no place that we paflfed, promifed fuperior advantages for a town, as it will always be fafe from floods of waters, and eafy for the inhabitants of the colony to tranfport their produce down the flream. The mouth of this creek, according to Mr. Hutchins's calculation, is three hundred and eight miles below Fort Pitt ; but fome think it confiderably further ; and from Mr. Hooper's adual furvey, it is probable it may be fo. About thirteen miles below, pafled a flream near as large as this, called Great Sandy Creek. According to information, on the heads of thefe creeks is the mofl beautiful and fertile country to be fettled, that is any where in this new colony ; would therefore recommend it to fuch as are dif- pofed to fettle in this new world. Here the in- habitants will fiot be perpetual Jlaves to fupport
their
[ 31 ] their creatures, for the winters are mild andfhort, being near the end of latitude 38, or the beginning of 39. Contiguous to this, if none in it, are the famous fait fprings, which are a peculiar favour of God in this land, fo diftant from the fea. Throughout this country in various places fait fprings are to be feen ; but more abundantly in the iouthern parts, the water of which, if boiled, produces very penetrating fait ; fome of which I faw m)delf.
In this c6untry alfo are to be feen alum mines, as the people call them ; but fome of them, from a chymical experiment, appear to be rather a mix- ture of vitriol with alum. This country has its excellences as well as fome feeming difadvantages, among v/hich the great abundance of ftone-coal may be reckoned as one advantage, efpecially in procefs of time. The black-fmiths about Redilone ufe none other in their (hops, and find, it anfwers their purpofe well ; nor is it defective for materials to ere6: the bed of buildings, for there is no fcarcity of lime-flone, and excellent quarries of free-llone. At Great Sandy Creek the river Ohio makes a turn, and runs for many miles near due north, and from thence to the mouth of Siota, its courfe may be faid to be S. W. and a little more wefterly.
Saturday Jan. 2, it rained fo that we were obliged to remain in camp : and tho' we ftretched our blankets, the rain was fo excellive, that we . lay foaking wet in our beds through great part of the night. No night feemed more uncomfortable than this, yet was not fenfible of any damage received.
January 3, it rained moll part of the day, fo that part of us remained in camp j but others,
being
C 32 ]
being worfe difpofcd, went out to hunt, though we were not in real want of provifions ; it was fo ordered that they killed nothing. Upon their re- turn reminded them of their impiety, and that Providence prevented fuccefs. All that was faid feemed only like darting flrav»^s againil the wind, for fenfe of duty was loft.
Monday 4, let out for the river Siota, and about the middle of the day came to the mouth of it. — The Shawannee Indians formerly lived near the mouth of this river, but finding that their enemies had too eafy accefs, they moved their habitation up the ftream. The mouth of Siota may be more than two hundred yards wide, and was then very deep, occafioned by the late rains. It is faid that the mouth of this river terminates the colony expefted to take place. For fome miles before we arrived to this river, mountains feemingly impedTable appeared terminating in feve- ral tops, covered with pine ihrubs S. E. of Ohio. Thefe mountains approach nigher the river Ohio, till they terminate at the edge of the ftream al- mofl oppofite to the mouth of Siota. It is faid that there is a way to pafs over rather below Siota ; and after travelling about fifteen miles you will come to a famous level land covered with good pafturage, and abounding with fine fprings of water, inviting inhabitants to partake of the rich productions of Providence. This mufl be conne(5l- ed with, or part of the land defcribed above on the branches of Great Sandy Creek and Guiandat. The name which the Shawannees give Siota, has flipt my memory, but it fignified Hairy River. The Indians tell us that when they came firfl to live here, deers were fo plenty, that in the vernal feafon, when they came ta drink, the ftream
would
[ 33 ]
would be thick of hairs j hence they gave it the name.
Encamped on the eafl fide of this river, at a place called Red Bank, and indeed this is the firft place in which we could encamp with fafety ; for near the mouth in floods the waters of this river and Ohio unite, covering all the low land ; the twa rivers for a mile or better running near the fame courfe, and not far apart. According to Mr. Hutchins, the mouth of this river is fituated in latitude 38 and 22 minutes ; and as Ohio runs three hundred and fixty-fix miles below Fort Pitt. — Traders call it four hundred miles, and from the remarks by Mr. Hooper it may be fup- pofed to be near the matter.
Was informed that this river has its fources towards Lake Erie, and that there is but a very fmall land paflage between this river and the ftreams that empty into that Lake. This will af- ford a communication with this weflern world not much thought of ; for it is faid goods from New-York can be afforded m.uch cheaper at Fort ^ Detroit, than from Philadelphia by land carriage ; having only two carrying places, one at Fort Stanwix, and the other at Niagara Falls. This river is very crooked, but not very rapid ; fo that men in canoes can flem the current to the head. ^
Tuesday 5, the water being deep, the men rowed the canoe about fix or feven miles, and were obliged to encamp — I went myfelf on land and killed fome turkies for provifions.
Wednesday 6, moved ilowly — fpent fome time in getting poles for the canoe — the wood ufed is called paupaw, it is very light, and bears a kind of fruit in fhape refembling a cucumber, but too
E lufcious
[ 34 ] lufcious for fome ftomachs. This night our lodging was bad, occafioned by rain.
Thursday 7, as the canoe was poled up the flream, for the advantage of lulling game, chofe to walk on land ; but miftaking the way that the river turned, lofl myfelf on the largell walnut bottom that ever I met with before. After fome time, found myfelf miftaken — what added to my furprife, night approached, and the fun did not JJ?ine. After ruminating on my cafe, and recol- lecting the courfes I came, concluded that I knew which way the wefl lay ; therefore fet off and run over feveral bad places, till at lad the top of a very high hill appeared. Exhilarated with the view, with not a little fpeed to this my courfe was bent ; but before it was afcended far, had the pleafnig profpe6; of the river, yet was at a lofs to determine whether the canoe was below or above me. Went firil up the ftream, fome times whiff- ling, and at other times hollowing till difcourag- ed — then returned down the ftream for fome miles, till I was fatisfied that they were above me — thence returning up again, expecling, little elfe than to be left in this folitary wiidernefs, with no provifions, and little amunition to kill any : but while mufmg thus, heard them fire at their camp for me. Returned the report, firing as I went ; but as the wind blew towards me, they heard me not, though happily their guns were al- w-rs heard. With as much fpeed as the darknefs of the night would permxit, being direded by their corc'i^'iual firing, at la ft arrived fafe at the camp, and was received joyfully ; for their diflrefs feemcd greater than mine, ;eil iome evil had befallen me, and they ihould bear the blame. This day pailed a large creek on the wefc fide of Siota, and feveral fmail ones on the eaft fide.
[ 35 ]
Friday 8, paffed fome miles up the river, no- thing remarkable happening.
Saturday 9, Mr. William Butlar, by an ac- cide^ having got part of his goods v^et, was fo retarded in his voyage, that we overtook him, though he fet out feveral days before us. In company with his canoes, we paffed a place where fome rude Indians were, who had behaved info- lently to Mr. Butlar. Our canoe-men, under- ftanding the difpofition of Indians, for their f rc- ty, made themfeives near half drunk, and as they pailed the Indians made fuch a horrid bul'iie, that the Indians Vv^erc afraid to molefl us, as they faid afterwards.
I THOUGHT at firfl this was only an excufefof cxcefs, but was afterwards convinced that Indians are extremely afraid of any perfon intoxicated ; for they look on fuch as mad, and, among them- feives in fuch a condition are always for killing. Encamped this night near the crollings of this river, and flept fafely, though not without fear.
10 Being the Lord's day, but as none is kept here, moved up as far as a place called Kufkinkis. It is common here to dilload fome part of the canoes, and from hence carry the goods on horfes to the towns. The land here is level and good, and it is faid that the place takes its name from an old Indian of the fame name, who ufed to winter here. This river comes much nearer to fome of the towns, but as it is very crooked, it makes the diflance fo great, it is judged expedi- ent to dilload part here. Near us were encamped fomx Indians, which were going to Fickaweeke an Indian town near to Deer Creek.
Monday ii, Mr. Butlar and Mr. Nailar con- cluded from hence to take part of their goods by
land.
C 36 3
land, on horfes brought from the towns for that purpofe. Being very defirous of leaving the canoe, as the feafon was now cold, requefted Mr. Butlar and Mr. Kelly to intercede for me to obtain a horfe from the Indian that was going to Pickaweeke.
I HAVE reafon to efleem thefe gentlemen for their afliflance on this occafion, for with fair fpeeches and good treatment, a horfe was granted to me ; but it is probable a large reward was viewed by the Indian, for they are very merce- nary.
Set out about 1 1 o'clock, and came that night to Paint Creek, which is efleemed about fourteen miles ; the laft part of the road is near due north. The Indian name of this creek is Ala- TJioneetheepeeca, the Englifh of which is Paint Creek. This creek takes its name from fome kind of paint that is found in or about it. It comes from the weft, and empties mto Siota, near where we encamped. The water is clear and beautiful, demonftrating that it originates from good fprings. On fome branches of this creek are fituated fome chief towns of the Shawannees, to be defcribed hereafter.
Tuesday 12, having taken breakfaft with Mr. Butlar and Mr. Nailar, fet out for Pickaweeke in company with my Indian friend, whofe name is Cutteway, his wife and fome others. It may be well thought that my journey was folitary, for three words of the Shawannee language were not known by me, and as httle Englifh by my fellow-traveller ; fo that we could converfe none by the way. The day being cold induced us to ride faft, fo that about two o'clock we came to the town. About one mile from the town my Indian friend caft off, and hid part of his load,
and
I 37 _] and leaving the women behind, made figns for me to ride on with him. Perhaps the reafon of his condud was, left we fliould be moleiled by drunken Indians ; for when they are intoxicated, their abufes are not confined to white people, but they will even rob Indians. Drawing near the town, many thoughts arofe about the event, for to me it was not known that there was one white man in town ; but all anxiety was removed by feeing Mr. Jofeph Nicholas, a former acquaint- ance when at Fort Pitt. With kindnefs he receiv- ed and entertained me with fuch refrefliments as the fituation afforded. While we were refrefhing ourfelves Mr. John Irwine came in, and invited me home with him. Mr. Irwine's chief habitation is in a fmall town, fituated W, N. W. of Pickav/eeke about three miles. By the Enghfh it is called Blue Jackets Town, an Indian of that name re- fiding there. Before this is defcribed, it is proper to take notice t)f Pickaweeke — it is fituated fouth of a brook that, eafl of the town, empties into Deer -Creek. It takes its name from a nation of Indians called Picks, fome of them being the firft fettlers— the word fignihes " the place of the *' Picks." Now it confifrs of about one hundred fouls, being a mixture of Shawannees and other nations, fo that it is called a Shawannee town. It is the mofl remarkable town for robbers and villains, yet it pretends to have its chief men, w^ho are indeed very fcoundrels guilty of theft and robbery without any apology or redrefs. Some of thefe took four or five mares from Mr. M*" Mechen on Ohio, nor was there any profped of redrefs. Leaving this, went with Mr. Irwine to his habitation. This town is fituated eaft of Deer Creek, and north of a large plain. This
creek
C 38 ] creek is clear and beautiful, appearing ufeful for mills and heathful for the inhabitants. The buildings here are logs, their number about twelve. This is a peaceable town, and in it lives Kijhjhinottijlhce^ who is called a king, and is one of the head men of this nation. The Engliflr of his name is Hardman,
Wednesday 13, Mr, Irwine invited the king and fome of his friends to take breakfaft with me, having previouily informed him that I was no trader, but was a good man, whofe employment among white people was to fpeak of God and heavenly matters, and came with that view to fee my brothers the Indians. None of this nation ever faw a minifler, except a chance one at fome fort ; fo that they have little prepoffeffions only what are natural. When the king met me, it was with all appearance of friendihip, and refpedfully gave me the right-hand of fellowfliip, with fome kind of obeifance. His friends that came with him he ordered to do the fame. When breakfaft was ready, which confifted of fat buffalo, bea- vers tails and chocolate — in a folemn manner, ac- knowledged the goodnefs of God, defiring Mr. Irwine to acquaint him with the defign of my proceeding, and he faid the king approved well of it. In our conference at breakfaft, he defired to know my bufmefs among them, feeing that I was no trader — ^told him that I could not give a full anfwer, being a ftranger to their language, and not yet having got a good interpreter to fpeak for me, but expected one, and then he ftiould fully know my bufinefs. At prefent told him only a few things, becaufe Mr. Irwine could not interpret only in common aiFairs, not having long traded in this nation. — Kifliftiinottifthee is indeed a
man
[ 39 ] man of good fenfe, and by all that appeared was my hearty friend. He was defirous that I fliould inllrud them into the knowledge of God, but he was only one, and there were many againfl me, efpecially at ChiUicaathee. During my pre- fent flay, vifited the king in his own dwelling, and was always received kindly, treating me with hickory nuts, which is part of their food, being much fuperior to any of that kind in our eailern world. He is neither diftinguiflied in apparel or houfe, that being one of the leail in town, being about fourteen feet by twelve. He may be faid to poffefs fome degree of hofpitality — being much indifpofed one day, the king's wife came with what was thought might fuit a weak flomach as a prefent to me ; the difh confifled of ptimkins which had been dried, but were now boiled, and with it fome bears oil to eat with the pumkin, "As it was a demonftration of benevolence, tlio' my appetite was poor, yet I eat a little. About, this time it fnowed near fix inches deep, and for fome days it felt near as cold as winter in Phi- ladelphia, thouQ;h it is thought to be about two degrees fouth, fo that cold weather in common is not long. Before removal from this town cap- tain M'' Kee, in company with major Smallman arrived. Mr. M'' Kee is now agent for this de- partment of Indians, and as his influence might be great, acquainted him with my defign. He appeared to be pleafed, promiifing to do what was in his power to make my journey profperous. The Indians having told me, that my old inter- preter David Owens was down Ohio below the falls towards the Waabafli river, therefore inquir- ed of Mr. M*^ Kee for an interpreter — he re- commended one whofe name is Cii^far, who was a
foreigner.
[ 40 3 foreigner, and, as he faid, underflood fomething about religion, and therefore would be bed for an interpreter on that fubjeCL — but was fo un- happy as never to fee him. We parted expect- ing to fee each other at Chillicaathee. It was with reluctance this town was left, before an op- portunity was obtained to inflru£t the Indians ; but being deflitute of an . interpreter, concluded to move to the chief town
Friday 22, in company with Mr. Irwine, fet out for Chillicaathee, and arrived there in the aftefnoon. Here Mr. Irv/ine kept an alfortment of goods, and for that purpofe rented an houfe from an Indian whofe name is Waappee Monneeto^ in Engiilh, often called the White Devil, but the v/ord Monneeto is not of any certain figni- fi cation. Went to fee Mr. Mofes Henry a gun- fmith and trader from Lancafter. This gentleman has lived for fome years in this town, and is law- fully married to a white woman, who was cap- tivated fo young that fhe fpeaks the language as v/ell as any lu'iian. She is a daughter of major Collins, formerly an inhabitant of the fouth branch ofPotomack, but now lives near the Little Canha- w^a on Ohio. Mr. Henry lives in a comfortable manner, having plenty of good beef, pork, milk, &c. His generofity to me was Angular, and equal to my highefl wiflies. Soon after my arrival, dieted altogether with Mr. Henry ; but flept on my blankets at Mr. Irwine's. By living on fuch vic- tuals as formerly ufed, foon recovered my health, in a comfortable degree. Chillicaathee is the chief town of the Shawannee Indians — it is fitu- ated north of a large plain adjacent to a branch of Paint Creek. This plain is their corn-field, w^hich fupplies great part of their town. Their
houfes
C 41 ] houfes are made of logs, nor is there any more regularity obferved in this particular than in their morals, for any man ereds his houfe as fancy direds. North of this town are to be feen the remains of an old fortification, the area of which may be fifteen acres. It lies near four fquare, and appears to have had gates at each corner, and in the middle likewife. From the wefl middle gate, went a circular entrenchment including about ten acres, which feems defigned to defend on all quarters. This circle included a fpring. Mr. Irwine told that another exactly in this form is to be feen on the river Siota, the banks of which remain fo high as to, intercept fight of men on horfeback. 'Tis evident to all travellers that this country has been inhabited formerly by a martial race of mankind enjoying the ufe of iron, for fuch entrenchments, as appear in various places, could not have been made otherwife : but of this part of antiquity we fliall remain ignorant
Saturday 23, in company with Mr. Irwine, went to fee captain M*^ Kee, who lives three miles about wefl and by north from Chillicaathee in a fmall town called Wockachaalli^ which fignifies Crooked Nofe's Place. Here the captain's Indian relatives live, and fome others. This feems only a new town, not having as yet much ground cleared. 'Tis fituated eafl of a creek, which I fuppofe to be a branch of Paint Creek. Some of the Indians of this town have a large number of the bed horfes in the nation ; nor are ' they worfe fupplied with cattle, fo that they chiefly live by ftock. Captain M"^ Kee was very courteous, and ftill promifed well. — Returned the fame evening to Chillicaathee. The day following, being Lord's day, remained at Mr. Henry's reading
F Sherlock
C 4'^ -] Sherlock on revealed religion, which is a good book on that fubjedl, and may be profitable to the reader : but if the author could have vifited the In- dians, he might have faved many arguments, and perhaps been more fully convinced, that w^ithout revelation there would have been little, or rather no religion among mankind. It is granted, that the apoftle fpeaks of the Gentiles which have not the law, yet do by nature the things contained in the law, &c. 'Tis true that nature may dired: to fome parts of the fecond table of the law, which includes our duty to man ; but it is far from being evident, that it directs to the firfl table, which includes our duty more immediately to God ; nay, the fcripture fayeth in this point, " that there is " none that underflandeth, there is none that " feeketh after God.*'* Had a deeper fenfa- tion of this truth, when amongft the Indians, than is common with us. In this town were near twenty white people, fome at leafl of them were difpofed to hear the gofpel, but dare not preach without leave from the Indians ; for tho' when among us they are lambs, found them lions at home. To be debarred from^ preaching on the Lord's day was very grievous, and made the day feem very long ; nay, it feemed impracticable to attempt focial prayer, for not a minute was cer- tain to be free from the infults of rude heathens. How great is the mercy to enjoy opportunities of w^orfhipping God without fear ! yet alas ! how many are infenfible of it ! and under all advan- . tages, remain real heathens in practice ; '* how " Ihall we efcape if we negledl fo great falvation ?'* Mr. Henry has preferved a good confcience fo far in refpect of the Sabbath, that he fai^, he
always
* Rom. iii. II.
[ 43 ]_ always refufed to work at his trade for the In- dians on that day, and repeatedly giving them the reafon, was fo far fuccefsful that few apphca- tions are made on that day for work — the Indians now knowing when it comes. He told me they were not a little troublefome at firft on this ac- count, but by utterly refufmg and giving them the reafon why he would not work, they were reconciled. From this inftance, am perfuaded, if the traders wxre unanimoufly to refufe trading on the Lord's day, the heathens thereby might be brought into better regulations ; but what is to be lamented, fome of the traders are not con- cerned about confcience in this matter, and it never can be well accomplifhed except they are unanimoufly agreed. When I came firfl to this town, two of our canoe-men lay under the hands of an old fquaa^ having had their feet badly fro- zen in travelhng from Siota. 'Tis likely they came with loads of rum by night, for if this ar- ticle is feen, 'tis common for the Indians to rob them without apology. One of the men indeed had his feet very badly frozen. Having applied to me, let them know that what medicines were in my poiTefTion, were not adapted to the complaint, muft have recourfe to the productions of that foil ; therefore prefcribed the following poultice, which in a fhort time abfolutely performed the cure in a furprifmg manner, quickly feparating the mortified flefh. As it is cheap, and may be depended upon in fmiilar cafes, fhall communi- cate it for the benefit of fuch as are pleafed to ufe it. Take the frefli bark of faffafras roots, pound it in a mortar very fine : then boil it a little in water, mixing it up into the confiftency of a poultice with Indian corn meal. Apply it once
in
[ 44 ]_ in twelve hours as warm as it can be endured. Its operation is attended with a fenfation almoft equal to burning, but this abates as foon as the mortified flelh is feparated.
Monday 25, made a further inquiry about the perfon recommended for my interpreter, was in-, formed that he was hunting beavers, and would not be in till fpring. This news blafted all my profped:s of making an ufeful vifit, and having no other re- medy, applied to one James Gerty, who was well acquainted with their language, but a ftranger to religion ; neither had he any inclination to en- gage in fuch folemn matters, fo contrary to the tenor of his life, having little or no fear of God before his eyes : yet he was civil, and, after much perfuafion, engaged to affift me ; but dare not proceed, he faid, before fome head men came home, who were out hunting, but expelled foon to return. In the mean-time I employed myfelf in making a Vocabulary of the Shawannee lan- guage, by his afliflance and Mrs. Henry's. Form- ed a method of fpelling this language from the Greek and Welfh. The (ch) is pronounced gutturally as Welfh or old Scotch, and (th) as Greek, by placing the point of the tongue to the upper teeth. Here dipt hongs, tripthongs, nay, even four vowels are ufed in a word. Their language feems very defedlive in verbs ; yet in feveral par- ticulars very expreffive. At firft it feemed im- poflible to fpell it, but cuftom made it almoft as familiar as the Englifti. They have only one fet of phrafes, therefore their language is commonly known by all. Having an opportunity here of exercifing reafon calmly, have a little changed my fentiments refpecling language. The ufe of words, is to convey the conceptions of the jnind
in
C 45 3
in fuch a manner, that others may know our thoughts ; therefore the better thefe founds are known, the end of fpeech is the better anfwered. It would be almoft as rational to whijtle in com- pany as to fpeak, ufmg words unknown to the hearers. Was this well confidered, perhaps it would make fome of our fine pulpit orators \A\}i^^ who ufe as many unknown words in one fermon, as might grace a modern apothecary's bill of me- dicines. To demonflrate a little oiF the nature of this language, ihall give a fpecimen in their man- ner of counting to ten^ viz. cootte^ nefwe^ nethway^ nee-ewe eh ^ nee-aallonvjeh^ nee-cootwothwe^ neefwoth- wee^ fivaafickthwee^ chacootthwee^ meetothwee. The common name for God is Ouejfa MonneetOy the word Oueffa fignifying good, but could find no particular fignification for the word Monneeto. They call the Devil Monneeto ; but when he is defigned, the adjective Maiichee is prefixed. >The word Mauchee fignifies bad or evil : fo that they call one the good Monneeto, and the other the bad Monneeto ; this word is applied to a fnake, and other difagreeable things. The chief men in fpeakingto me ufed another word, by which God is acknowledged as Creator, viz. Wejhellequa^ i. e. he that made us all ; but captain M*^ Kee pro- nounced it Coajhellequaa, Was diflreffed that my time paffed and little done to purpofe, confulted with the traders to meet for worlliip ourfelves, and fpend the Lord's day in the befl manner we could among the heathens. It was agreed that on the 31(1 of January, fhould preach to the white people ; the Indians were to be notified, that if any chofe to come, they alfo fhould be inftruded. Fearing the event, went to fee captain M*" Kee,. who promifed to come next day and interpret for
me
[ 46 ]
me to the Indians ; but he came not, nor is the reafon yet known to me, not having had any op- portunity of feeing him fmce : nor was the dif- appointment lefs in our town, for the Indians were fo extremely uneafy, and ufed fuch menaces, that none dare meet ; for nothing can be fafely done without their confent. They are arbitrary beyond conception of fuch as knovv^ them not. Ignorance often creates fufpicion, this is their cafe, for they feemed apprehenfive, that if we met together, 'twas only to counfel to take the town. February i, an Indian lately returned named Othaa%i:aapeeletJ?ee^ in Englifh the Yellow Hawk, came with fome others to Mr. Henry's to con- verfe with me. This Indian is one of their chiefs, and efteems himfelf as a great fpeaker and very wife : and this may be juftly faid of him, that he is faucy enough. On this occafion Mr. John Gibfon a trader, was my interpreter, being a man both of fenfe and learning. After common for- malities were pail, he told me that he wanted to know my bufmefs among them ; for he underftood that I was no trader. Firft, informed him from whence I came, and that my chief bufmefs was to inflrud; them from God, for his mind was re- vealed to us, &c. — That I had a great defire for many years to fee my brothers the Indians — now wanted to talk with them, and was in hopes that he would allow me an opportunity. He replied that he thought fome thing of that nature was my bufmefs. Then he proceeded to make a long fpcech^ not with a very pleafant countenance, nor the moft agreeable tone of voice, and replied to this effed:, viz. "When God, who at firft made us all, prefcribed our way of living, he allowed white people to live one way, and Indians ano- ther
[ 47 ] ther way ; and as he was one of the chiefs of this town, he did not defire to hear me on the fubje£t of rehgion, for he was refolved not to be- Heve what might be faid, nor pay any regard to it. And he believed it would be the mind of the other Indians." His thoughts were only na- tural, and feemed to have no other conceptions of my inflrudions, than as refering to the common afi^iiis of life, confifting in living like white folks.
He faid that they had lived a long time as they now do, and liked it very well, and he and his people would live as they had done. This Indian feemed like fome among us, who confider religion only as ftate policy. And without doubt there is enough of fuch religion in the world, even under the name of the Christian ; but this affects not the nature of the religion of the Son of God, whofe kingdom is not of this world, but is purely fpiritual^ wjiich does not promife its avouchers -livings and worldly preferments ; but what is infinitely greater, it aifures all that truly embrace it, that tho' in this world they may have tribula- tions, yet in that which is to come, they fhall inherit eternal life. How often do we find it true, that the natural manvreceiveth not the things of the fpirit of God. TliTs Indian fuppofed that I would learn them to read, and faid it would look very foolifli for a man to have a book before him learning to read when old. In reply I faid, that fuppofe God gave us the right way of living at fir It, that if any of us got wrong, it would be kind in the other to fay, brother, you have miffed your way, this is the road you fliould follow. Adding that he did not know what I would fay before he heard me ^ that he could not
tell
[ 48 3 tell but what he might like it. And if he would give liberty, if I did not fpeak good, he might tell me, and I would fay no more. He replied that it did not fignify to make any trial, for let me fay what I would, he was refolved not to believe me. Indians can bear no contradiction, therefore by this time his favage foul began to be raife^. Finding that no good could be done by faying any thing more, for it was only making bad worfe ; therefore as the weather was cold, and had no horfe, begged liberty to flay in town till I could remove. This was granted with coldnefs.
He faid, may be fome other nation might re- ceive me, and I might go to them. From this time prepared for my journey, only v/aiting for good weather — for company and a horfe, intend- ing to go to the Waindots ; but afterwards thought it not expedient. Between this time and my de- parture, was entertained by three Monneetoes, which fhall be defcribed hereafter. At prefent fhall give a narrative of the moff dangerous fcene through which I paffed.
SATURDAY, February 6, in the afternoon, was fitting on my bed in Mr. Irwine's houfe, and two of his men were flielling corn at the door, an Indian lately returned from his hunt, came haftily in purfuit of Mr. Irwine's lad, who ran partly behind me. The Indian with violence feized him by the throat, and feemed to be feefmg for his knife or tommehock. Seeing him fomewhat in- toxicated, was furprifed. Putting my hand to his breafl, relieved the lad, and fpoke in the Sha- wannee language in the mofl friendly manner. He feemed for a little to be pacified, but foon afked for fome tobacco, in the mofl mallerly man- ner. Having forgot its name, told him in his own
language
[ 49 1 language that I did not underfland him. This enraged him, therefore he took fome tobacco, and with violence jobbed it to my mouth, faying tobaac. Told him that I had none. Immediately he was fo exafperated, that he drew a very large knife on me, and approached to make a pafs at me ; kept him off only by the length of my arms, fo that he could not flab me, defiring one of the men to affift me in fuch danger : but fo daftardly was his conduct, that he refufed to come into the houfe.. He afterwards apologized and faid that he faw not the knife. In the mean-time the In- dian's mother came haflily in, and fprang between us, feizing her fon by the hand, and took hold of the knife looking fmilingly in my face, as is fuppofed, to pacify me, left fome evil might follow. By this unforefeen, and yet moft feafonable and providential means, got out of doors, and walked off pretty faft to Mr. Henry's, though I did not think proper to run— ^the diftance might be about one hundred yards. Can't readily defcribe my fenfation at that time. I felt fomething like to what you may call a martial fpirit ftirring in me ; my heart became void of fear : the great law of felf-defence opened to my view, on the frequent return of thefe words to my mind, " died Abner as a fool :dieth ?" In cafe of another attack, was not without thoughts of ftanding up for my life, and according to my ftrength to repel force with force. But oh ! how good the Lord is in time of neceflity to them that truft in him, in opening another, and much better way for efcape, as will appear in the fequel, without offering violence to the hurt of any one. When that Indian befet me, had indeed a knife in my pocket, but it was fo ordered that I did not once think of it at that
G time.
C 50 ]
time. Since that, efleem it a mercy from God that I did not ; for had I made any attempts of the kind, the confequence might have been very bad. This Indian's name is Tattathuckee* -Near night Mr. Henry was looking out at his window, and faw an Indian coming called Old WilL He knew him well, and delired me to keep out of that fellow's way, for he was afraid that he would do me harm. For concealment, went upon the cabin-loft, but it was fo low that if an Indian flood with his back to the fire, and his face towards me, he might eafily fee me, therefore for difguife drew fome blankets over me. Prefently in comes Old Will, making inquiry for me, with terrible threats in fuch a rage, that he foon began to cry with venomous anger. Often he repeated, " Oh! if I could get one flroke, one ftroke !" This was fpoken in Englifh — and Mr. Henry often anfwered him in Englilh, 'tis likely to let me know how matters were like to iffue. Mr. Henry in com- nlon poflTefTes a calmnefs of mind, and on this occafion ufed it with great difcretion ; he did not appear the leafl: diflurbed, but anfwered with an air of indifference, and faid may be I was gone away, for the Indians were fo crofs that he did not think I would flay. Mr. Irwine, I believe, was not a little diflreifed on this occafion ; and by his prudent condud contributed to blind the old mur- derer, Mrs. Henry, knowing well the difpofition of the Indians, cafl in her mite, and by what was faid Old Will defpaired of finding me, confequently went home. But like Job's meflengers, one was not well gone before another came, whofe name is Black Arms. He fpoke only in the Shawannee tongue, I could judge only by the tone of his
voice, * That is, a hally fetting fun.
C 5' ]' voice, which was the mofl terrible that ever fa- luted my ears. His voice was indeed as the very harbinger of death itfelf, fo that every moment an engagement for hfe was expected. But be- hold, through the kind providence of God, a timely way. of efcape was provided. That even- ing a very noted perfon of this nation, called the Blinking Woman, was at Mr. Henry's. This wo- man was fofler-mother to Mrs. Henry in time of her captivity. There were prefent alfo two or three fquaas befides. It feemed as if thefe faid fomething in my favour, though I am not certain what they faid, but 'twas foon perceivable that Black Arms was quarrelling with them ; the matter was carried fo high, that it was evident the fquaas would no longer bare the abufe ; an apprehenfion of this made Black Arms very glad to find the door, left he fhould have been roughly treated for his infolence. During this time little could be expected but death, yet as a fupport it came into my mind that at our alTociation my lafl requeil to my miniftring brethren was, to pray that I might be dilivered from the hands of un- reafonable 7nen^ which afforded me a degree of hope, that God would hear their prayers, and give deliverance in his own way. Indeed the cafe feemed in fome refpefts defperate, and was almoft fnnilar to the condition of the Ifraelites at the Red Sea ; for if by night an efcape was made, the inhabitants were at fuch a diftance, and fo many rivers to crofs, that there was no profpect of redrefs. But how infinitely wife is God in difpofmg all things to unite for the prefervation of his people ! When Saul and his men furrounded David in the wildernefs of Maon, fo that he was inclofed as a fifli in a net, be- hold !
C 52 3
hold ! a mefTenger comes with the alarming news that the Phlliflines had invaded his territories, which obliged him to return with all poffible fpeed. Wifely did God over-rule the turbulent difpofi- tions of this people for my fafety ; for the fquaas, abufed by Black Arms, were friends to Old Will, to whom a complaint was made of their abiifive treatment. This exafperated Old Will fo that he refolved to give him manual inftru^tions for his condud, for, faid he, " Black Arms is always quarrelling with women." Upon meeting a bloody battle commenced, in which each was fo effedually abufed, that they were willing to remain in their houfes till I left the town. Who could have thought of fuch a v/ay to -efcape ! From hence, have been induced to fay, that God often exceeds the expedation of them that trufl: in him, and opens a door of relief in a way un- expedled by us. Before I proceed to give an ac- count of my travels to the Delaware Indians, fhall defcribe the genius^ cufto?ns^ government and religion of this nation, as far as opportunity and informa- tion allow me. If any thing happens to be mifreprefented, fhall make no other apology than it was not defigned.
GENIUS. The Shawannees are naturally an active and fenfible people, not pofTefling a dull imagination in fome kind of fculpture or hieroglyphicks, if the falfe faces ufed by their Monneetoes are of their own formation ; for nothing can bear a much more (hocking afpedt. They are the mod cheerful and merry people that ever I faw — the cares of this life, which are fuch an enemy to us, feem not to have yet entered their mind. It appears as if fome kind of drollery was their chief
ftudy y
C 53 ] fludy; confequently both men and women in laughing exceed any nation that ever came under my notice. At the fame time perhaps they are the moil deceitful that exift in human fliape.
As it is common to judge of others by our- felves, fo thefe Indians, from a confcioufnefs of their own deceit, are very fufpicious of us having fome defign to enflave them. This made me fare the worfe, for they furmifed that the white people had fent me as a fpy. It is faid of the Cretians, that they were " always liars, evil beads, flow' bellies.*'. Perhaps this may be as juftly applied to the Shav/annees. This I found to be a craft am.ong them, that when they imagined any thing in their own heart about you, they would fay fome one told them fuch things, and all this cun- ning hs to find out your thoughts about them. In comm^on they are men of good flature, rather more flender than the Delawares. Thefe, as well as other Indians, are of timerous fpirits, far from poffeffing any thing heroick, confequently they feek all advantages in war, and never engage without a manifeft profpedt of vidtory. There is little danger of their being fancy if there is not more than a double number. 'Tis true that they killed many in the lafl war, but great part were timerous women feared more than half dead at their fight,' or elfe perfons void of arms to defend themfelevs. 'Tis pretty evident to me that this will not be the cafe any more, for lafl war the fear of them was upon us ; but the Lord has changed the cafe, for thtfear of us is fallen on them, that they are in almofl a fimilar cafe to the inhabitants of Jericho when befieged by the L.- Ifraelites ;|and from hence we may judge as Ra- hah did, that the Lord is on our fide, and will
in
C 54 ]
in his own time bring the heathens into fubjec-
tion. GOVERNMENT.
They areflrangers to civil power and authori- ty : they look on it that God made them free — that one man has no natural right to rule over another. In this point they agree with our great- efl politicia7is^ who affirm that a ruler'/ authority exte7ids no further than the pleasure of the people, and when any exceeds that power given, it may be juftly aiked, by what authority doefl thou thefe things, and who gave thee that autho- rity— ^whether in church or ftate ? 'Tis marvellous indeed, when we confider human depravity^ how Divine Providence has preferved this lawlefs peo- ple /?2 being. But all things are poffible with him, whofe dominion is over the mod powerful animals and favage men. 'Tis more than probable that God has fome glorious events in view. Every town has its head men, fome of which are by us called kings ; but by what I can learn this appelation is by the Indians given to none, only as they learned it from us. The chief ufe of thefe head-men is to give counfel, efpecially in time of war ; they are ufed alfo as moft proper to fpeak with us on any occafion, efpecially if it be important. They have no laws among them to redrefs the oppreffed : though they feem to have as much need as any people, for they are given much to ftealing, both from white people as well as among themfelves. Their cuftom among themfelves is, if any one fleals, the fufFerer fleals as much from the felon as he judges fatisfadion : and it is more than probable that the fecond thiet has the befl of the bargain, for Indians are not eafily fatisfied. In cafe any perfon kills another,
there
[ 55 3 there is little faid, and nothing done ; but if the deceafed has a friend, the murderer commonly falls a vidim to his difpleafure in fome drunken frolick ; and it is likely intoxicates himfelf for that purpole, for Indians have not much refolution without a dram, Mrs. Henry told that during her captivity, it was not uncommon for women to hang or drown their children, when they did not like them, and never concern themfelves fo much as to bury them. Nor were they guilty of this cruelty fecretly, for nothing would be faid on the occafion more than if a puppy had bej^n drowned. But fmce they became more acquainted with white people, their conduct in this is amend- ed. Yet they are not all without affedion. '
CUSTOMS.
It is common in this nation to make confider- able lamentations for their dead, efpecially if they were perfons of note. They believe a future ftate of fome kind of exiftence ; but in this their ideas are extremely low and fenfual. 'Tis certain that they think the foul of the deceafed eats, therefore it is common for the furvivors to drefs good victuals, and place it at the head of the grave for feveral nights after the perfon has been buried. They have their children in good fub- jedlion : their manner of correction till feveral years old, is to dafh water in their faces, or throw them into the brooks : with this they threat- en them on all accafions. They have no form of marriage — the man and woman agree for fo many bucks Ihe fhall be his wife. Natural affed:ion feems very fmall. By women beauty is commonly no motive to marriage ; the only inducement feems to be the reward which he gives her. They have
no
C 56 J no thoughts of marriage joining interefl, every- one afterwards having their diftinft property.
It is faid that women are purchafed by the night, week, month or winter, fo that they de- pend on fornication for a hving ; nor is it thought either a crime or fhame, none being efleemed harlots but fuch as are hcentious without a reward. PoHgamy is thought no crime — 'Tis common to have feveral wives at the fame time ; nor dare one of them feem difpleafed left fhe be difmiffed. On the fmalleft offence they part. It often h crime enough for a woman to prove pregnant, but this is not often the cafe, nor is it like to be while licentioufnefs and the lues venerea are fo common. 'Tis probable if there is no reforma- tion, that in another century there will be few of them on earth. At prefent the whole nation of the Shawannees, according to Mr. Henry's cal- culation, doth not exceed fix hundred, includ- ing men, women and children : and from wh^t came under my notice, this account is large e-^ nough. Among the cuftoms of this nation, their cruelty to captives, who are not adopted, may be reckoned as one fmgularly bad. When a cap- tive is brought in, if any in the town fancy the perfon for a wife, huiband, fon or daughter, then that perfon purchafes the captive, and keeps him as his own. But it often happens that the poor captive has no friend, then a knife is run thro' between the wrift bones, and drawing deer finews through the wounds, they proceed to bind them naked to the pod in the long houfe, and, inftead of fympathizing, make all imaginable diverfion of the helplefs agonizing captive. Some times they will come up and cut off the captives nofe, and make abundance of game at his disfigured
afped.
I 57 1 afped. When they have finifhed this fcene, they lead them out, and with their tommehock com- plete their defign, often leaving their bodies to be confumed by the fowls of the air. Oh ! favage cruelty ! Alas ! how great is the depravity of human nature ! are thefe defcendants of him, who at firfl was made after the image of God ? yes, verily ; but the fine gold is become as the dim brafs. How abfolutely needful to be born again ! and how great is that work of God's fpirit, to make fuch as thefe new creatures, as inoffenfive as doves or lambs ! yet this has been the cafe.* This muft be the cafe when that paf- fage is more fully accomplifhed, which faith, " the
ivolf alfo fhall dwell with the lamb the calf,
young lion and fatling together they fhall not
hurt nor deflroy for the earth fhall be full of
the knowledge of the Lord."|
DIVERSIONS.
In the winter feafon, part of their time is fpent at playing a game which they call Mamundis, but this is more common among the Delawares : their minds are more attraded to cards, which, fome white people fay, they have learned from the French. This might be only an excufe for their own bad conducl:. They are mofl indefatigable dancers, continuing almofl every night in the winter to near twelve o'clock. Their mufick is only a fkin flretched over a keg— on this the mu- fician beats with one flick. As an affiflant another Hands up fliaking in his hand a gourd, that has a parcel of grains of corn in it. But as they dance, all fing, fo that the echo of their united voices may be heard at a great diflance. Fifhing and
H hunting
* I Cor. vi. II. X Ifaiah xi. 6 — 9.
C 58_J hunting employ their men in fummer, and raifihg- corn the women.
The women are the only drudges, but in re- turn poflefs the riches ; for what in fummer the men make, is chiefly given to the women for their winter's lodging. Among their diverfions their mock-devils are none of the leail. Indeed they may be efteemed as a great curiofity ; and fo fhocking is their appearance, that had not Mr. Braynard defcribed them, fhould have been more furprifed. Thefe they call Monneetoes, Not long before my departure, three of thefe made their ap- pearance, in confequence as they faid of a dream. Being premonifhed, went out of the cabin, while they were difhant near one hundred yards. 'Tis more than probable that the Monneetoes knew me, and intended to fcare me. The foremofl {looped down by a tree and took fight as if he defigned to flioot at me : but I could fee that he Iiad only a pole in his hand. Each has a pole in his hand to keep off the dogs, which on this oc- cafion feem frightened almofl out of their fenfes. As they approached their noife was fhocking, nor were their actions to be eafily imitated. Each had a falfe face, and all drelfed in bearfkin with the hair on, fo that the only refemblance of their fpecies confided in walking. The foremofl had a red face, w'ith a prodigious long nofe, and big lips ; the others had black faces with long chins refembling bears. All had cafed tortoife fliells, with artificial necks — grains of corn are put into thefe, to make a gingle — and many other trinkets are ufed to complete the noife. With all thefe frantick capers I was by them furrounded — afked what they wanted ? but Monneetoes can't fpeak. After fome time they produced a pipe, by which
it
C 59 ] it was underftood that tobacco was acceptable. Upon the reception of any donation, fome kind of obeifance is made, and as they depart, the fcene is ended with a kind of dance refembhng the aftions of a bear. In fliort their looks, voices and actions were fuch, that it was thought if they had got their famples from beneath, the fcene could not be much exceeded. This appa- rel is ufed alfo by their pouwouers in their attempts of healing the fick, when they cannot find out the caule of their diforder.
RELIGION. It is fa id of thefe as well as of all Indians that I heard of, that they believe there is a good Monneeto and a bad Monneeto : but they in no manner worfhip either one or the other. 'Tis doing them injuflice to fay they worfhip the De- vil, for they give themfelves no concern about God or the Devil. They have not one thought worthy of God. 'Tis a fubject neither thought on, nor fpoken of. In no way do they acknow- ledge either mercies or judgments as coming from God. They feem to have fome conceptions of his making the world at firil : but none as a preferver or governor of the works of his hands. Never do they call on any higher power to inter- pofe in any diftrefs — neither do they apprehend that he is difpleafed with any of their actions, not thinking any thing to be a fin — they feem to have no defire to know him. 'Tis faid, by them that are befl acquainted with them, that it never doth appear that they have any reproof of con- fcience for crimes committed : fo that it may well be faid, that they are without any kind of religion good or bad, inward or outward. It would be a mercy if this reprefentation could be confined
to
[ 6o ]
to the Shawannees ; but how many are among us that though they profefs that they know God, yet in works deny him ? There is much noife in the world about what they call natural religion^ but I am fully convinced now there is no fuch thing exifting ; for if men had neither tradition, or revelation other ways, they would concern themfelves about God little more than the brutes that perifli. i Tis probable fome may fay, that fome heathens have wrote well concern- ing God. This is granted, but pray, kind rea- der, how came they by that knowledge ? had they no tradition to begin on ? till it is proved that they had none, the argument is not affe£ted, and this is a point that never can be made appear. "Whoever reads Grotiiis on the truth of the chrif- tian religion, will fee how they came by their knowledge. And whoever confiders that the world was in a comparifon then young, w^ill fee that tradition was not extind.* Is it not a great crime to ufe the knowledge obtained from reve- lation^ only to malign it ? it is indeed horrid in- gratitude. And are they not guilty of this, who call that knowledge obtained from it by the name of natural religion ? it is wifhed that fuch perfons could only fee the Indians, efpecially fuch as have leafi: acquaintance with us : for others gain know- ledge from us, therefore if judgment is formed from fuch, a great millake will be made by fuppofmg that to be natural, which is acquired. 'Tis more than probable, if the experiment was made, that they would be fo convinced as to give up the point, acknowledging that if God had not re- vealed himfelf to us, we would have never made
it
* By tradition is meant fomething handed down from Adam to Noah, and from him to his poflerity, &c.
[61]
it our concern to feek after him. We read no- thing of Adam's concerns about God after his tranfgreiTion, 'till God firft calls upon him. Might we not have expected to find him, who fo lately poflefled the image of God, breaking out into a foliloquy fomething like unto this, " Alas ! where am I ! to what a ftate has my vain, my ungrateful attempts brought me ! now I feel nothing but gloomy darknefs overfpreading all my wretched foul, and an awful diflance from that God, with whom I was wont to have the fweet- efl communion. How can I thus live, robbed of my paradife of joy ! Oh ! will heaven look down on fuch a rebel !" But the facred hiilorian gives not the lead hint of any relentings on this occa- fion, nor of any defires after God. And if the cafe was fo with our firft parent after his tranfgreffion, can we exped: any of his defcend- ants to be better difpofed ? fuch an expectation would indicate both ignorance 2ind arrogance, — Though the :^refent cafe of thefe Indians is fo deplorable, ' yet it is my opinion, that they might be civilized in a fhort time, if it became a matter of publick concern^ and authority would interpofe to fupport fome well difpofed and well qualified perfons, who would be willing to endure hardfhips for the good of the needy. There is one difficulty in common not confidered, viz. this peo- ple live a vagrant life, feldom remaining long in one place, efpecially in the fummer feafon. If they were perfuaded and affifted in farming, and learned to read, they might foon be civilized. 'Tis ftrange that nothing has been done by the province's contiguous to the Indians. Under all thefe dif- advantages, if there was no rum brought among them, it appears to me that fome good might
have
[ 6i ]
have been done. Some have thought that the traders prejudiced the Indians againft me. 'Tis poluble that there weje fome fo bad, but in general I mud clear them of the charge, believing that it would have been very agreeable to have feen my journey fuccefsful. Some of the traders were not only civil, but very generous : efpecially meflrs. Irwine, Henry and Duncan : the others were very kind, but had not an equal opportunity of {hewing hofpitahty. I am forry that I was obliged to re- move before more inftruftions could be given in return for their kindnefs : but fuch was the dif- trefs, that my beft friends advifed my removal* At prefent indeed it is not fafe for any perfon to venture himfelf among thefe lawlefs favages, who have no confcience about fhedding innocent blood, I WOULD difmifs the fubject about thefe Indians, only it will be expe6led that fome defcription of their apparel fliould be given* In this refped they differ nothing from mofl of other Indians. The men wear fhirts, match-coats, breech-clouts, leg- gins and mockefons, called by them inockeetha. Their ornaments are filver plates about their arms, above and below their elbows. Nofe jewels are common. They paint their faces, and cut the rim of their ears, fo as to ftretch them very large. Their head is drefled in the bed mode, with a black filk handkerchief about it ; or elfe the head is all fliaved only the crown, which is left for the fcalp. The hair in this has a fwan's plume, or fome trinket of fdver tied in it. The women wear fliort fnifts over their fhroud, which ferves for a petticoat. Some times a calico bed- gown. Their hair is parted and tied behind. They paint only in fpots in common on their cheeks. Their ears are never cut, but fome have
ten
C 63 ]
ten filver rings in them. One fquaa will have near five hundred filver broaches ftuck in her ihift, flroud and leggins. Men and women arc very proud, but men feem to exceed in this vice. 'Tis faid that they fufFer np hair to grow on their body, only on their head. Some pull out ihc'ir eyebrows.
No company prefenting, and matters not wearing the bed afpeft, concluded not to go to the Wain- dots, but to dire£l my courfe to the Delaware Indi- ans ; having ?^ot a horfe through the kindnefs of Mr. Irwine, which cofi: n;ie twenty-five dollars : and being Ibmewhat furnillied with provifions for my journey, on Monday February 8, about ten o'clock, parted with my good friends at Chillicaathee, and fet out alone, palling through Pickaweeke ; came '4F before night to Kifkapookee, which is fituated on a creek that foon empties into Siota. The town is near one mile from the river. — This day's jour-- ney was more than twenty miles — the courfe near northeall and by north. For the firfl eight miles, was not without fome apprehenflons of being purfued, but after that, was very little difturbed in mind. At this town m^y lodging was V\dth Mr. Richard Butlar, brother to William Butlar before mentioned. His ufage was kind and generous, not only preparing wheat cakes for my journey, but he alfo gave me two pair of leggins to barter for provifions by the way ; for thefe Indians as yet have not the ufe of money. In the morning my horfe could not be found, and by that means miffed of company : however about one o'clock paffed over Siota in a canoe, in company with Mr. Butlar, who was fo kind as to fee me over,^ becaufe I could not converfe with Indians about my ferriage. The lad that brought me over is a
white
[ 64 ] _
white captive. When I fpoke to him, was very forry to fee him lliake his head, and reply, " Motta keeno toleeh neekaana^^^ i. e. I do not underftand you, my friend. There remain a confiderable number of captives in this nation, which were all to have been reftored at the conclufion of the lad peace, and without doubt the agent has in this point been deficient. The country through which I pafTed to day, appears very excellent, only it abounds very much with bogs, or what may be called frefh marfhes, fo that perhaps it may not be beft for health ; but promifes to be extraor- dinary for ftock. My courfe to day was about northeaft. As I paifed a certain place called the Great Lick, faw the lafh flock of parrots. Thefe > birds are in great abundance about Siota in winter, and in fummer 'tis probable they may be feen much further towards the north. Having fet out very late, night came on before I arrived to the next town. My road was very fmall, and the night dark in this wide wildernefs, made my travelling more difagreeable than can be eafily expreffed : but before nine o'clock, came fafe to Mr. M'^Cormick's at the Standing Stone. This town confifts chiefly of Delaware Indians. It is fituated on a creek called Hockhockin. The foil about this is equal to the highefl wifhes, but the creek appears muddy. Though it is not wide, yet it foon admits large canoes, and from hence peltry is tranfmitted to Fort Pitt. Over- took here Mr. David Duncan, a trader from Shippen*s town, who was going to Fort Pitt.
Wednesday io, intending to travel forty miles, fet out early in the morning — our courfe more northerly than northeafl — the land chiefly low and level — and where our horfes broke thro'
the
[ 65 ]
the froft, it might be called bad road and good land. • There were no inhabitants by the way. Before night, came to the defigned town, called Dan. Elleot's wife's ; a man of that name was faid >.to have here a fquaa for his pretended wife. This is a fmall town confifting of Delawares and Sha- wannees. The chief is a Shawannee woman, who is efteemed very rich — fhe entertains travellers — there were four of us in company, and for our ufe, her negro quarter was evacuated this night, which had a fire in the middle without any chim- ney.* This woman has a large flock, and fup- plied us with milk. Here alfo we got corn for our horfes at a very expenfive price : but Mr. Duncan paid for me here, and in our journey till we parted. About a mile before we came to this town, we crolTed a clear large flream, called Salt Lick Creek, which empties into Muikingum, on which the chief Delaware town is fituated. The country here appeared calculated for health, fer- tile and beautiful.
Thursday ii, fet out for a fmall town called Conner's, a man of that name refiding there.
Our courfe was near northeaft — ^the diftance was lefs than the preceding day's journey, fo that we arrived to town fome time before funfet. Travelled this day over a good country, only wanting inhabitants. This town is fituated near no creek, a good fpring fupplying them with wa- ter— the land about it is level and good, the tim- ber being chiefly blackoak, indicates it will pro- duce good wheat, if a trial was made. Mr. Con- ner, who is a white man, a native of Maryland,
I told
* This woman has feveral negroes who were taken from Virginia in time of lait war, and now efteemed as her pro- perty.
[ 66 ]
told me that he intended to fow wheat hi the fall following, and was refolved to proceed to farming at all events. 'Tis probable that he will be as good as his word, for he is a man that feems not to fear God, and it is likely that he will not regard man. His connections will favour his at- tempts, for according to their way, he and the chief Indian of this town are married to two fif- ters. Thefe women were captives, and it is like- ly from childhood, for they have the very aftions of Indians, and fpeak broken Englifh. It feemed ftrange to me to fee the captives have the exadl: geftures of Indians. Might we not infer from hence, that if Indians were educated as we are, they v/ould be like us ? This town conlilts of Shawannees and Delawares ; and fome of them dwell in pretty good log houfes well fhingled wifh nails. Mr. Conner keeps a fort of a tavern, and has moderate accommodations, and though he is not what he (liould be, yet he was kind to me.
Friday 12, here we parted with fome of our company, whofe abfence was very agreeable, and in company with Mr » Duncan, fet out for New^- Comer's Town, v/nich is the chief town of the Delawares. Had gone but a few miles till we came to the Little Shawannee Woman's Town. This is fituated on the well fide of Mufkingum, and chiefly confifls of Shawannees, Here we crofled the river in a canoe, our horfes fwimming by it's fide. The country began to be hilly, in- terfperfed with fome barren plains. We paffed Captain White Eye's Tovvn, but this noted Indian was down Ohio, perhaps with my old interpre- ter, fo that I could not have the fatisfaction of feeing him this time, but I law him feveral times the firfl vifit. He Vv^as the only Indian I met with
in
C 67 ]
in all my travels, that feemed to have a defign of accomplifhing fomething future. He told me that he intended to be religious, and have his children educated. He faw that their way of living would not anfwer much longer — game grew fcarce — they could not much longer pre- tend to live by hunting, but mull farm, kc»—^ But'faid, he could not attend to matters of reli- gion now, for he intended to make a great hunt down Ohio, and take the fldns himfelf to Phi- ladelphia. I was informed that he accomplifhed this, and went round by the gulf of Florida to Phi- ladelphia. On this occafion, could not but think oftiiattext of fcripture, which fays, "one went to his farm and another to his merchandife." And it may.be faid, the Indian went to his hunting. This was the cafe lad year, and perhaps fome- thing as important may employ the next year, and fo the life of man is fpent, few remembring that ONE THING is needful.
A FEW miles north of White Eye's town, there is a fmall town, where we obliged our horfes to take the river, following them in a fmall canoe belonging to the Indians. Thence travelled over very hilly land till we came within tv/o or three miles of New-Comer's Town, and from that to town the land is agreeable and appears good for wheat. Came to town before night, and found it was a great triennial feail, confequently little could be done till that ended. From the great tov/n Chillicaathee to this chief town of the De- lawares, is called one hundred and thirty miles. The courfe may be ellimated near northeaft, but as the path goes, it varies in many places. This town is fituated on the weft fide of the river Mufkingum, which is a pretty large ft ream. The
proper
[ 68 ]
proper pronunciation in Indian is Moojkingungy i. c. Elk Eye River. In their language an elk being called ?noos. This town takes its name from the name of the king, who is called Neeiotwhealemon, I, e. New-Comer.
Saturday 13, was fo happy as to meet Jofeph Peappi, a Moravian Indian here, who is a good interpreter. Made application to him for his afliftance in fpeaking to the king. He engaged and fpoke ^ery kindly on the occalion. He went and informed the king that I was in town, and would wait on him prefently, and was to remain till I came. After proper time for information, wtnt in, defiring Jofeph to let the king know, that I was the m.an that he expeded : upon which he met me with fome complaifance, and feemed to receive me affedionately, inviting me to fit down. Told him that I was the man that wrote two let- ters to him laft year, one from Monongehela, and the other from Fort Pitt. Afked if he re- ceived them with a belt of wampum. He repli- ed that he received all, which he would produce if required. I informed him it was not necelTary, if he received them it was enough. Proceeded to let him know that my defign in coming now, was the fame that was fpecified in the letters — that I was a minifler defirous to inflru6l them in- to the knowledge of that God who made us all. That now I was ready to fpeak to him and his peo- ple, if he would only grant me liberty. Replied that in thefe matters he could do nothing without the advice of his council ; that he would inform them of it, and an anfwer fhould be given as foon as the great feafl was ended. This was not only what they call a feafl, but alfo a time of great dancing and gaming, fo that nothing elfe could be attended
to
C 69 ] to till that was finifhed. To improve the prefent time, concluded to vifit the Moravian towns.
Sabbath 14, in company with Mr. Duncan, fet out, but by reafon of ice, arrived not to it till afternoon. When we came, worfhip was finifh- ing ; the minifter continued but a few fentences, which were fpoken by him in the Englifh tongue, an interpreter giving the meaning to the Indians. This town is fituated on high level land eaft fide of Mufkingum, about ten miles up the ftream from New-Comer's Town. It is laid out in regular form — houfes are built on each fide of the flreet. Thefe Indians moved here about Auguft 1772, and have ufed fuch frugality, that they have built neat log houfes to dwell in, and a good houfe for di- vine worfliip, about twenty-two feet by eighteen, ■well fcLied, and a good floor and chimney. They are a mixture of Stock-Bridge, Mingo, and De- laware Indians. Since the lafl war their chief refideiice has been about Wioming. Their con- duct in time of worfhip is praife-worthy. Their grave and folemn countenances exceed what is commonly feen among us at fuch times. Their minifter, the Reverend David Siezberger feems an honeft man, a native of Moravia, nor has he been many years in this country. He has been fuccefsful among thefe poor heathens, conde- fcending for their fake to endure hardfhips. While I was prefent he ufed no kind of prayer, which was not pleafmg to me, therefore alked him if that was their uniform practice. He re- plied that fome times prayer was ufed. Their worfhip began and ended with fmging an hymn in the Indian language, which was performed melodioufly. In the evening they met again for worfhip, but their minifter, inadvertently or by
defign.
[ 7° ] defign, fpokc in the German language, fo tliatby me nothing was underllood. Mr. Siezberger told me that near eighty families belong to their two towns, and there were tv/o miniilers befides himfelf. I was informed that one of them, whofe name is Youngman, is a perfon of good abilities. By what appeared, mud fay, that the conduct of the Moravian fociety towards the heathen is com- mendable. Thefe have behaved like chriftians indeed, wKlle raoft of other focieties have alto- gether neglected, or in general made but faint attempts.* Indeed by what I have heard of the Reverend David Braynard, he was fincerely en- gaged, but his time was Ihort. In the evening, informed Mr. Siezberger, tliat it would gratify me to preach to his Indians. He replied with fome appearance of indifference, that an opportunity might be had in the morning. 'Tis probable he was a little afraid to countenance me, left fome difciples might be made ; than which, nothing was more foreign from my intention. Or his refervednefs may be afcribed to his natural dif- pofition«
Monday i :;, parted here with my kind fellow- traveller Mr. Duncan, who went on his v/ay to- wards Fort Pitt. At the appointed time the Indi- dians convened — Jofeph Peappi was interpreter. Introduced my difcourfe by obferving that it was not my defign in coming from home, to preach to them, not being informed of their removal ; but feeing Providence gave an opportunity, had a de- fire to fpeak to them. Proceeded to obferve that all the difciples of our Saviour Jesus Christ feparated themfelves from the courfe of this world,
no
* No reference is had to the northern Indians, the author not perfedly knowing their flate.
[ 71 ] no lono:er to live as the world lived. As other people were bad, they might expect fome dif- ficulties, and perhaps fome perfecutions ; but that they fliould be llrong in heart, for God in due time would give them reft. That they fliould be watchful, and beware of back- lliding, to live like other Indians ; but as God had opened their eyes, to keep on their way till they came to eternal reft with Christ in heaven, &c. kc. The difcourfe continued about half an hour. On this occafion was very fenfible of divine alliftance ; and from the great and ap- parent folemnity, it was thought that the word of God was felt with power. Such v\ras the fpiritu- al delight enjoyed, that it feemed no fmall corp- penfation for my troubles and hardihips endured. The next town was fituated about ten miles up the fame ftream, where the minifters chiefly refide. Was informed that the other houfe of worlhip- was more fplendid, adorned with a fteeple and bell, but the ice prevented me from feeing it. Thefe Indians are tradefmen, underftanding farm- ing and carpenter v/ork ; and being already fur- nifhed v/ith ftock, intend to live as we do, and 'tis probable in a few years will live richly ; for the land appears good for wheat. While I was here one of the Indians afked the minifter, when Eafter Sunday was ? Mr. Siezberger feemed to evade any difcourfe about it, and only told him that it was not for fome time, and that he fliould have notice before it came. Perhaps had this queftion been afked among us, I fhould have thought little about it. But here the cafe was the reverje ; for while I ruminated on it, mv foul was filled with horror to think t\i2it mortal man Ihould prefimie to teach a heathen religioufly to
'obferve
C 72 ]
obfervewhat God Almighty never taught him as any part of his will. *Tis granted, that ac- cording to ecclefiaftical hiflory, this feflival claims antiquity ; but the hoary head is a crown of ho- nour only when found in the way of righteoufnefs. And it mufl be granted that the holy fcriptures are the only rule in matters of religion, by which we are to judge what is right, and what is not. Old errors and fuperflition can never become mo- dern truths. Nor need the difciples of Christ give themfelves the lead trouble to fearch what is called antiquity on fuch fubjeds ; for it fhould be a matter of no more concern to them, than to know whether the trees, in Mahomet's elyjian fields^ are pears or apricots.
My thoughts were not limited here, but went in fearch of the fuperftitious rehques of the fear- let whore, yet kept alive among us who call our- felves REFORMED. And indeed I found many, but am fo well acquainted with the prejudices of education, as to fear that all that might be faid on the fubjecl, would terminate as it did with Othaa- waapeelethee, the Shawannee Indian, who faid " they had lived a great while in the way that they now do, and were refolved to continue fo." Many inftances might be produced, but fhall mention only the obfervance of Chriflmas, which may with more propriety be called popemas. Methinks I fee the reader furprifed at the appela- tion fo uncommon ; but is it not with greater pro- priety called the mafs of him who is the infti^utor of it, than to bear his name, who has neither ordained nor will approve of it ? 'Tis certain that Christ never intended any fingular homage to be paid to the day of his birth, which is plain from there being no records of it in the
holy
C 73 ] holy fcripture.* This Infinite wifdom thought pro- per to conceal, as the body of Mofes, to prevent fupcrilition. And where fcripture has no mouth to fpeak, we ought to have no ears to hear, nor hearts to obey, for " his fervants ye are whom ye obeyy Seeing this" is the cafe, will it be uncha- ritable to call fuch as uphold the reliques of po- pery, the worjhippers of the image of the bead in thefe particulars ? 'Tis common for people to fay, what harm is it to worihip on this day ? May it not be afked fuch, what harm is it to eat meat ? but if any fhould tell us it is offered to an idol^ you know we are not to eat. The cafe is fi- milar — *tis no harm to worfliip, if it is not done as under the notion of C H R I S T M A S ; but "when that is the motive, 'tis then honouring the whore of Babylon, and confequently no longer a matter of indifferency. — But to proceed, I re- turned to New-Comer's Town in the afternoon, and went to fee captain Killbuck, who is a fenfible Indian, and ufes us with part of the complaifance of a gentleman. He fpeaks good Engiifh, fo that I converfed on the fubjeft of preaching, and he was to meet me next morning to converfe fur- ther. He invited me to make free in coming to fee him. Soon perceived that he bore the chief fway in all their affairs, and could do more than the king himfelf in many things.
Tuesday i6, met captain Killbuck, fpoke on many fubjeds. In our difcourfe he told me, that fome years fince, two Prefbyterian minifters vifit- ed them — that they did not incline to encourage their continuance, yet their vifit had fuch effeci:,
K that
* There is no certainty when Chrlft waS born, whether it was on the firlt or twenty-fifth day of December.
[ 74 ] that they had been thinking of it ever fince.* He faid, that they intended to have both 2^miniil:er and fchoohnafter, but would not have Preibyteri- ans, becaufe their miniflers went to war againft them, and therefore did not hke to be taugTit by them now, who were before for kiUing them. It was plain that Indian prejudice was very great and unreafonable. Rephed that the Moravians never fought againft them, therefore they might receive them. His reply was, that Moravians did not belong to our kingdom, being from Germany, and could not fave their people alive in time of war. Upon this he related the diftrefles and dan- gers of the Moravian Indians laft war, and how they were preferved at Philadelphia. Adding, that for all the alBftance that the Moravians could give, their Indians might have been killed. Hence argued, that it did not fignify to be of that religion, that could not proteft them in war time. He faid, they intended to go to England and fee our king, and tell him that they would be of the fame religion that he is, and would defire a minifter and fchoolmafter of his own chooiing. Told him that his fpeech pleafed me, but thought they were too poor to accomplifh it, and feared they would get little affiftance. He faid, that they had near forty pounds already, and intended to make an early hunt, which would enable them to go in the fall. To efFed this, cap- tain Killbuck and Swallowhead were chofen mef- fengers to Sir Wiilia?n Johnfon while I was there. Encouraged their defigns, w^illing to refign the civilizing them to his majefty's direftions : but am perfuaded, that the fervice of the church of England, as it now ftands, will never be pre-
fcribed
* Miniilers do good when they know it not.
L 75 1 fcrlbed for Indians ; for nothing would difgufl them more than to have a rehgion, which would confume the greater part of hfe, only to learn its ceremonies.
Thursday i8. Afternoon, converfmg with Killbuck, he told me that the young men were defirous to hear me preach, confequently con- cluded to preach next day. In the evening, had an opportur^ity to converfe with Jofeph Peappi, who would interpret for me ; but I told him that I would give only five pounds for a month ; he faid, he ufed to have fevea pounds. Indians, from the greateft to the leaft, feem mercenary and exceffively greedy of gain. Indeed they are fo lazy, that they are commonly needy, and muft be more fo, if they do not cultivate their lands ; deer grow fo fcarce, that, great part of the year^ many of them rather llarve than live. Mr. Evans, who is a trader in this town, told me, that Iclfl fummer fome were fupported by fucking the juice of green cornftalks.
Friday 19, expected to preach, but Killbuck told me that they were not yet fully united in the point — Had reafon to think that the king was not much for it, though he faid little — Neither do I conclude that Jofeph was very defirous of it, for the traders often told me that the Moravians taught their Indians to difrefpeQ: other focieties, and I could wifh that there were lefs grounds for the report. Afked Killbuck if he knew the i»ea- fon why they were not united for my preaching ? he feemed to intimate, if would have been other- wife, if I had come laft fall, while they were in the notion of it : but found, by converfing with him, there.is a jealoufy in them, leil we fliould have fome defign of enilaving them, or fomething
of
' [ 76 ]
of that nature. He told me that an highland officer took one of their women as his wife, and went with her into Maryland about Joppa : and they heard, there he fold her a Have like a negro. This he faid, a gentleman in Philadelphia told him : and as they never faw the fquaa afterwards, they were ready to believe that the report was true. If this cafe is fo, and this gentleman could only fee that by his means he has prejudiced the heathens againll: us, am perfuaded he would men- tally retraft his intelligence with a degree of forrow. Replied, that I never heard it before, yet was perfuaded that it could not be true, that fhe continued a Have ; for if the officer was guilty of fuch a crime, the law of our land allowed no Indians of our country to be Haves, and the ma- giilrates would furely fet her free. But he faid, their people did not know our law, therefore fuch reports made them afraid of us. He fur- ther faid, " What is become of the woman, fhe never came back to us again ?" Replied, that I could not tell, may be fhe did not choofe to come, or flie might be dead. ' By this time, was much difcouraged, and by hardfhips and want of provifions my health and ftrength were greatly impaired. No meat could be had here for love or money. Bought milk at nine-pence a quart, and butter at two fliillings a pound, but not near fuf- ficient could be had. From the king, had bofight the rum^p of a deer dried, after their cuf- tom, in the fmoke to preferve it without fait, which made it fo difagreekble that little could be ufed. Indeed, I had coffee, chocolate and tea, but fugar was fo fcarce, that it could not well be ufed. Defires called for a land, where famine doth not raife her baleful head, therefore on Sa- turday
t 77 1
turday 20, inquired for a pilate to accompany me towards Ohio. The feafon was feverely cold, fo that the king and captain Killbuck would not fuf- fer me to go, for they faid the weather was fo cold, that it would kill even an Indian. Indeed the feafon was fo intenfcly cold, that attempts to travel were impracticable. My continuance here was very difagreeable ; for though the traders of this town were civil, yet they had no tafle for religion, fo that I was alone without fuitable fuflenance, waiting the permifTion of Providence to depart homewards.
Sabbath 21, this was a remarkable cold day — fome part of it was fpent converfmg with Killbuck on feveral particulars, concerning the belief of the Delaware Indians. 'Twas afKcd, whether thev believed that there is a God who created all things ? He replied, that this was their common belief. The fecond quellion was, whether they be- lieved that when any perfon died, their foul went to a happy ftate, or to a (late of mifery ? Replied, this they alfo believed. The third was, whether they knew that Gt)D would by his great power raife up all the dead to life again at the end of this world ? His reply was, that this they knew nothing of, 'till lately they had heard it among the Moravian Indians. Thefe Indians have been fo long acquainted with us, that^it is not eafy to determine what they have learned of us.
This day liberty was granted to preach as often as I pleafed, but not having my interpreter, could do little; for Killbuck would not accept of Jofeph, for, he faid, I might as wxU not fpeak as to have him, for inftead of faying what I faid, Jofeph would fay what his own heart thought. Though I had better thoughts of Jofeph, foon perceived
that
' [ 78 ] that Killbuck had fuch an averfion to him, that if he was iifed for an interpreter, nothing could be done. This v/as the only time that opened for doing good, and this opportunity was chiefly loll, for want of Mr. Owens my old interpreter ; thereiore all that was faid as preaching, was in the council, ufmg Killbuck as an interpreter, who was capable in common affairs, but knew little concerning religion. To day the king and coun- cil concluded, that no more rum jQiould be drank in this town or nation, and that there iliould be no more gaming or dancing only at their triennial feaft. This made me think of the laws of New^ Jerfey about horjeracing^ in which there were fuch referves, as evidently demonllrated that fome of the afiembly loved ihcfport.
P^IoNDAY 22, Killbuck told me that they were making up a fpeech to governor Penn, who had wrote to them lafl fall, and I mud wait to write and carry it. He faid they vv^ould provide me a pilate.
Tuesday 23, the fa me melTage was fent , in - forming me that for fix dollars, fhould have a pi- late to fee me over Ohio. TMs news was not the moil agreeable, as the wages were unreafonable, and my daily expences fimiiar. 'Twas impoHible to purchafe one pound of bear's flelh, or one venifon ham. — This people live truly poor. The land is indeed good, but at prefent the price is in the hand of fools. In the afternoon a meffen- ger came for me to wait on the king and council — Their number might be about twenty convened in their council-houfe, which may be fixty feet by twenty.four. It had one poit in the middle, and two fires. Moft of them had long pipes in almofl conftant ufe — they fet round the fires on Ikins — a flool was prepared for me — then prefent-
ed
' r 79 3
ed a bowl of hommany, of which they were eating. Spoons they had none, but a fmali ladle ferves four or five Indians. After our repail, a Iheet of paper was brought, and Killbuck being interpreter, ii^rmed me, that it was their defire that I fhould write to governor Penn from them, defiring that he would inform his people, that if any brought rum their fide of Allegini river or Ohio, they had appointed fix men, on pain oi death, to ftave every keg — And that he wouii let governor Franklin knov/, that they defired all the Jerfey Indians to move into their country, as it is" large enough, &c. Accordingly, a letter was written, and every word interpreted by captain; Killbuck and an alTiRant. This was delivered to his honour Richard Penn, efq. 'Tis to be hoped the contents thereof will merit his honour's atten- tion ; for as the Indians feemed refolute in the point, 'tis poliible that neglects might be attended with undefirable confequences.
Wednesday 24, was called to the council, and defired to deliver a fpeech to the Quakers at Philadelphia ; but as there was nothing worthy of writing in the meffage, therefore delivered it verbally to Mr. Thomas Wharton in Philadel- phia.
As next day I was to begin my journey towards Ohio, therefore it may be faid, that at this meet- ing, I took my leave of them, giving them all the advice that was thought expedient, which they feemed to receive very friendly — fo we parted in love and peace.
These Indians are not defedive in natural abilities, and their long acquaintance with us, has given fome of them better notions than many other favages. They are as void of civil govern- ment
[80]
ment as the Shawannees. Their virtues are but few, their vices near the fame with other Indians. Their cuftoms are refembhng the Shawannees, only they have a great feaft once in three years. Afked Killbuck the meaning of it ? he faid, it might have had fome meaning atfirfl, but now was obferv- ed only as an old cuftom. The language of thefe Indians in general differs very much from the Sha- wannees, being (till more guttural. Shall give you a fpecimen of their manner of counting to ten, viz. guitta^ nujha^ nucha^ neah^ pele7iah^ cootaJJjy neejhajh^ chaajh^ pejhcung^ telen, Thefe Indians at prefent have no way of worfliipping or ac- knowledging God ; but they feem to incline to, learn to read — and have begun to farm, to which they are much affifled by a Jerfey Indian, who is not only their fmith, but alfo makes their ploughs. - Indeed it appears that both a minifter and fchool- mafter may go among them with fafety and fuc- cefs, if they keep their conclufion to fuffer no rum to be brought into their country. On this fubject I fpoke much, fliewing the advantages that would arife from the confiant obfervance of this conclufion ; and exhorted them to htjiroiig* To which they anfwered with loud voices kehcllah^ which is the moil emphatical way of faying yes. They fhew fome honour to a minifter ; but are fo extortionate in the price of their provifions, that a man muft expend much more money in preaching among them, than he can get by preaching among us. They increafe much fafter than the Shawan- nees, poligamy not being fo common. Their town is in no regular form. Neither thefe nor the Shawannees claim any diftind property in
lands,
* TTiis is an Indian phrafe, fignifying as much as to fay, be refolute, firm and valiant.
[ 8i ]
lands, looking on it that God made it free for all. Nor could I underftand that they have any fixed bounds to a nation, efteeming it chiefly ufe- ful for hunting. Providence feems to point out the civilizing of thefe Indians ; for a farming life will lead to laws, learning, and government, to fecure property. Captain Killbuck told me, he faw the neceffity of a magiftrate to recover debts, and faid, that by and by, he expeded that they would have one ; but as yet their people did not underftand matters. 'Tis a little furprifmg that protejiants fhould be fo negledlful of the Indians ; and in common there is no concern appears a- mong them, about civilizing the- many nations, that are yet rude favages : while on the other hand, the French Fapijis^ have been very induf- trious to inftil their principles into the minds of fuch as were contiguous to them, and with fome fuccefs. The Waindots are a little tainted, but might, 'tis probable, be eafily better informed, and efpecially as the French are in a manner ex- pelled. This I can fay, that though my body and eftate fuffered by this journey, yet I do not re- pent my vifit, but rejoicd that fome attempts have been made, though not with the fuccefs that could be wiflied. Would have ftayed longer, but being deftitute of my old interpreter, and fcarcity of provifions, rendered it impracticable.
Thursday 25, having a pilate, which cofl fix ddlars, though I paid Mr. Tompfon the trader offly one guinea, yet he made it up in goods, fet out about eleven o'clock from New-Comer's Town on Muikingum, intending the neareft courfe for the river Ohio. My pilate was a Jerfey Indian, whofe name is Pontus Newtemus ; he fpoke Eng- lifh intelligibly, but was almoft as great a flranger
L to
[ 82 ]
to the woods as myfelf — and we had a path only the firfl part of the way. Our courfe Ihould be a httle fouth of eafh. This day travelled only about fifteen miles, and encamped by a brook, where we were furrounded with abundance of howling wolves. Spent the evening converfmg on many fubjedls ; found Pontus with little more know- ledge than other Indians. — Aflifled by a good fire, we llept well, confidering that our frigid curtains were the circumambient air.
Friday 26, fet out about eight o'clock. This day we left our little path, and went according to my diredlions, for Pontus knew not the courfe, only he was informed from a rough Iketch of the new map which I had by me. Some part of the way the land was charming — looked extraordinary for wheat, covered with the fined blackoak trees and goofberry-bulhes ; at lad encamped at a creek about five yards wide, running foutheaft, neither of us knew into what larger creek it emptied. Surrounded with the protedion of him, whofe ten- der mercies are over the works of his hands, we flept fafe in the midil of a doleful wildernefs. — This day's journey was at lead thirty miles.
Saturday 27, fet out, and foonleft the creek, deered our courfe near ead, till at lad we came to a creek which we followed, and a little before funfet, came to the river Ohio, oppofite to Weel- ing. This creek empties into Ohio oppofite to an ifland, and as it is common to pafs down Ohio the ead fide of this ifland, by that means it efcaped the notice of Mr. Hutchins, and alfo of Mr. Hooper, confequently it was not in my map, therefore could not tell where I was. Mr. Hooper has now redified this defeat, and was pleafed to give the creek my name.
Sabbath
_ C 83 ] ..
Sabbath 28, In the morning, parted with my pilate in great love and friendfhip, having tra- velled at leafl feventy-five miles together in the folitary wildernefs ; and though he a Ways be- haved well, can't fay that I was without fome fear at times, left he fhould do me an injury. Went four or five miles dowm Ohio, and came oppofite to Mr. William M'^Mechens, from whence I took water for the Shawannees. Much ice was driv- ing down the ftream, yet when I called, Mr. M'^ Mechen ventured over in a little canoe, that threatened danger, leaving at that time my horfe behind, we came fafely over. When we arrived to this fhore, my fenfation was truly pleafmg, hope raifed high expedations of feeing New-Jer- fey once more. Here remained for fome weeks, waiting for the arrival of my brother and Mr. Clark, who were gone for corn to Monongehela.. And as I am now about leaving this famous country, think proper to fpeak a little on a fub- jecl chiefly omitted.
The land, according to my judgment, has been juflly defcribed ; but this is not all the excellency of this new world, for its waters abound with the greatefl abundance of fine fiflies. There is a kind of filh here called white perch, fome of which are larger than a Ihad, and very agreeable food. Sun-fi(h, or what is called yellow-perch, are here as large as a (had. There is another kind of fifh called bufi'aloe fifli, many of which are larger than our ilieepfliead — Catfifli of an extraordinary fort ai-e taken here, fome of which are faid to weigh an hundred pounds. We took one, that after leven of us liad eaten twice of it, part was given to the Indians. Large falmon are to be met with here alio — fome (lurgeon,
prodigious
C 84 ] prodigious large pike, chubs, mullets, and vari- ous kinds of fmall fifhes. I have been informed that ihad have been taken, and fome herrings ; but the riches of the waters are not fully known, the people not having feiries made as yet. The wild beafts met with here, are bears, wolves, pan- thers, wildcats, foxes, raccoons, beavers, otters, and fome few fquirrils and rabbits ; buffaloes, deer and elks, called by the Delawares 7noos. The fowls to be feen are wildgeefe, ducks of various kinds, fome fwans, abundance of turkies, fome of which are very large ; pheafants, pigeons, and fome few quails, by fome called partridges. This country promifes the inhabitants a plentitude of the necef- faries of life ; and having defcribed it according to my knowledge, and beft information, would have here left the reader : but as God was pleaf- ed to bring me through fome very trying fcenes, thought proper to communicate the fame, hoping it may be of fome benefit to fuch as meet wii^ tribulations, in this world of forrow.
Friday, March 19, left Ohio alone, and en- camped on the creek called Weeling. This was the only night that I llept alone in the wildernefs : the folitary repofe can fcarcely be defcribed, many thoughts arofe, none otherwife to be removed, only by the proper exercife of faith on him, who has promifed never to leave nor forfake his chil- dren. It was fo ordered that not even a wolf howled to diflurb me.
March 25, was crofling the Alegini mountain— the fnow was nine inches deep, and fuffered not a little by the fevere cold.
Sabbath 28, came to Old Town, and preached in the evening at Col. Craflbp's. On the week following, was taken with the pleurify, and lay at David Bowen's, at Conegocheage.
C 85 ]
Saturday, April 3, drew off about fourteen ounces of blood, which relieved fo much, that in the afternoon, fell into a pleafant fleep, and had fuch a reprefentation of my family at home, that after awaking, told fome of the people, that it was my belief that my fon was dead, and found when I came home, he had departed about that hour. From that time my fpirit funk in me, with an un- accountable fadnefs. From this infer, that God doth fometimes give intimations of future events in fleep.* But in common, no notice fhould be taken of flumbering imaginations. After re- cruiting my ftrength a little, went through New- Caflie county, having fome bufmefs to tranfad: there.
Thursday, April 22, fet out in hopes of fee- ing my family once more in the land of the living, but about fixteen miles from Philadelphia, at a fmall town called Chefter, met an acquaintance, who gave me the forrowful news that my favourite fon was dead. Though this news was expedled, yet when it verbally reached my ears, it ftruck me through the very heart, with fuch extacies of forrow, that my fouf feemed as if it would expire. Sorrowfully I rode to Philadelphia, and was pre- vailed on to remain there over the Sabbath. Had buried two children before, but as Jacob's heart and life was bound up in Benjamin, fo was mine in this fon. At this time, life feemed a burden, and all the world a mere empty nothing. Sleep was only obtained when exhaufted with weeping.
Saturday 24, in the morning when I awoke, the wounds began to bleed afrelh : but, unexpedl- edly, thefe words came with fuch power, that relief was foon obtained, I'/z. " My fon defpife
not
* Job xxxiii. 15.
[ 86 ]
^' not the chaftening of the Lord, nor faint when *' thou art rebuked of him : for whom the Lord *' loveth, he chafteneth, and fcourgeth every fon " whom he receiveth." That part of the verfe in particular, which fays, " whom the Lord loveth, *■' he fcourgeth," was of fmgular fupport in my prefent diftrefs ; impreffing on my heart fuch a fenfe of God's love to me, that fuch was the re- lief, that the next day, was enabled to preach. The w^ords are in Heb. xii. 5, 6. what a precious faying is that ! which fo comfortably ajBRrms, " that *' whatfoever things were written aforetime, were " written for our learning ; that we through pati- *' ence and comfort of the fcriptures might have " hope." There is no condition, in which any of God's children can be, but he hath left a word fuited exadly to their cafe. And indeed it muft be fo, feeing that his promife is " I will never " leave thee nor forfake thee."
Monday 26, fet out, and at night lodged at a friend's houfe. When retired to my bed-cham- ber, thoughts crowded into my foul — The for- rowful fcene began to open to view, anticipat- ing my arrival to meet my beloved wife, in my abfence, bereaved of a dear fon. Ideas of my darling came frefli into my foul — I knew not how to go home and mifs him. Circumflances of his death came into mind, how hard it was to leave him alive, and find him dead ! what is common to human nature in diftrefs, fruitlefs wifhes were not afcw : fuch as, oh ! that I had beenwithhim, or even had been permitted to attend his dear remains to the folitary grave ! but now, alas ! alas ! I Ihall never more fee him on earth ! — Thefe thoughts with many of the fame nature, were productive of floods of tears 'till fleep gave refpite.
Tuesday
_ C 87 ] Tuesday 27, in the morning, icon after I a- woke, while ruminating on my cafe, thefe words were imprelTed on my heart with both power and comfort, viz. " ye have heard of the afflictions of " Job, and have feen the end of the Lord ; that " the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mer- " cy." The whole dealings of God towards Job opened very clearly to view, and it w^as evident that his cafe far exceeded mine : at once he loft all his children and wealth, not by what we call a natural Death, but by one fatal ftroke the vi- tal flame is quenched in the ruins of an houfe. That claufe which faith, " the Lord is very piti- ful," miniftered truly great comfort to my foul. Had then a lively fenfe of the tender compafTionof the Lord ; .and though he caufeth grief for wife ends, yet will he have compaffion according to the multitude of his mercies. By this means, found myfelf much fupported, and enabled to believe that I fliould yet find God very pitiful, notwith- ftanding that now the chaftifement was fevere. The words are in the epiftle of James, chap. v. and verfe 11, only with this variation, viz. in James the word is patience^ and the word ajfliciion was ufed inftead thereof, as being moft fuitable to my cafe. It may be obferved, that in giving comfort, the Lord doth not always ufe the very word in the text, but is pleafed to adapt xh^fub' Jiance thereof, according to the circumftance of the afflided. 'Tis more than probable, that there are fome, who are ftrangers to comfort from the fcriptures by the application of promifes, and fuch may think it only a kind of fancy ; but they who are better acquainted with God, and know the myfteries of the kingdom, can blefs his holy name, for fuch glorious difplays of his love.
As
C 88 ]
As I came within a few miles of home, forrow returned again afrefli in fuch a degree, that hu- man nature feemed too weak to fuflain the heavy had^ till thefe words were imprelTed on my mind with a degree of power, viz. " Can a woman forget her fucking child, that flie fhould not have compaffion on the fon of her womb ? Yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee." For a little fpace, that part calmed the furges of forrow, which fays, " yet will I not forget thee." But had not rode far before my wounds began to bleed afrefh, then thefe words came with fuch power, that not only my dillrefs was removed, but alfo, greater aflurance of eternal life was enjoyed, than what I had been favoured with for fome years pad, viz. " that we muft through much tribula- lation enter into the kingdom of God." Being thus fupported, came home in the flrength of the Lord, having great caufe to fpeak both of judgment and mercy. This tour contained fix months and one day, in which greater hardfliips were endured, than are fpoken of, but may be conceived by remembring that in rainy and Ihowy weather blankets flretched were all my houfe : and in fair weather no other flicker than the open air : but in many refpeds, have learned more in this time, than in all my life before. In the defcription of this country, and account of the Indians, my endeavour and view was, to inform all who were pleafed to read : but the narrative, refpeding my troubles, w^as chiefly defigned for the fons and daughters of afBidi- on, hoping it may not be altogether in vain to others. To all parents of children, who may be pleafed to read, would clofe this Journal with a few words of advice, viz.
I. Consider
[ 89 ]
1. Consider the mofl lovely child only lent to you from God, who has a fovereign right to call for his own, when, and in what way feemeth good unto himfelf ; and none fhould fay, what doell thou ? Alas ! we are prone to forget this, and a«5t as if there was none that ruleth above, ordering all events here on earth.
2. Never fuffer your affe^lions to be iixed too much on any child, for our children are all mortal, and at befl but uncertain comforts. Hov/ often may it be obferved, that God is.pleafed to take away the flower of a family ? and that in the morning of days and bloom of life. He has wife ends in all his proceedings, and gives no account of his adions to man. If he is pleafed to fpare our children, how often doth it prove only a conti- nued caufe of forrow ? for fuch is the corruption of the age, that very fey feek after God, and endeavour to keep themfelves unfpotted from the world. We are too fubje£t, if God endows our children with any thing diflinguifhable, to idolize fuch ; but often he fhews us our fault, with bro- ken hearts. This was my unhappy cafe. All my concern was about my fon Jofeph. He was as dear to me as Abfalom to David, or as Benjamin to Jacob. But, was foon made to fee my folly, and the great inflability of worldly comforts. All that I would fay on this occafion is, " the Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away, blelTed be the name of the Lord." We find that God makes his dearell children pafs under the rod : and this we may expecl, though we are not at eafe ; for our blelTed Lord fays, " as many as I love, I rebuke and chaften."
3. Endeavour to be fmgle-hearted, not lov- ing the world, nor the things of the world, for,
M whc.i
[ 90 ] tvhen this is our cafe, we are fit to live or die; having our afFedions on things above, far from all difappoiritment. 'Tis faid this is not our reft, and fo we fliall find it ; but there remains a reft for the people of God. 'Tis but a little while, before all our concerns about this world
will have an end. Some of our children
have gone before ils, and we ftiall foon follow- after ; thefe bodies fliall remain in the foli- tary confines of the grave 'till time fliall be no more. How are we difquieted in vain ! for all things here are but vanity and vexation of fpirit. ' 4. And laftly, when in adverfity, beware of murmuring againft God. Cannot fay that I was free from it, but am fo far from juftifying it, that 'tis expelled, that among other iniquities, this alfo is wafhed away by the precious blood of Christ. We find tliis fm cleaving to the beft of men. Je- remiah curfes the day of his birth. 'Tis indeed a great evil — it reprefents God lacking wifdoni or [;oodnefs in difpofing events on earth : but he is wife ii^. all his providences, and not only good, but he doetli good continually, and nothing but what is for the beft to all his children. David could fay, it was good for him to have been afHifted, And we have this gracious word to fupport us, viz. " all things do work together for good to them that love God." Wherefore let us lift up our hands that hang down, and be encouraged, for vv^hatfoever we fufter, it is the Lord that has done it, and can dired it, and blefs it for good. He is at hand himfelf, and while we are here, let him be the delight and joy of our hearts, then we may fay with calmnefs, when our fpirits are demanded, come Lord Jesus, come quickly, amen.
F I N I S.
C 91 ]
To complete the Jheer, it is hoped, thefe Hymns may he acceptable, as their fubftance is truly evangelic cal; they became favourites of the Editor by hear- ing them frequently ufed on the hanks of the Ohio,
The Sinner's Invitation, &c.
COME, finners attend, And make no delay. Good news from a friend I bring you to day : Glad news of falvation.
Come now and receive, There's no condemnation To you that believe.
I AM that I AM
Hath fent me to you. Glad news to proclaim.
Your foes to fubdue : To you, O diftrefled,
'Afflicted forlorn, Whofe fms are increafed.
And cannot be borne.
But ftill if you cry,
0 what is his name ? This is his reply,
1 AM that I AM :
His name (though myflerious)
Will fully fupply Their wants, howe'er various
That unto him fly.
Then
C 92 ]
Exhauftlefs and full
For-ever his ftore ; Then look no more dull
Tho' never fo poor. Tho' blind, lame and feeble,
And helplefs you lie, He's willing and able, Your wants to fupply.
Then only believe.
And trufl in his name, He will not deceive.
Nor put you to fhame *. But fully fupply you
With all things in ftore. Nor will he deny you
Becaufe you are poor.
The convinced Sinner coming to Chri st.
The second Part.
"TNEAR Jesus, here comes, -^-^ And knocks at thy door,
A beggar for crumbs,
Diftreffed and poor : Blind, lame and forfaken.
All roll'd in his blood. At laft overtaken.
When running from God#
To afk childrens bread
I dare not prefume. But, Lord, to be fed
With fragments I come :
Sortie
C 93 ]
Some crumbs from thy table,
0 let me obtain. For lo, Thou art able
My wants to fuftain.
I own I cleferve
No favour to fee. So long I did fwerve.
And wander from Thee ; 'Till brought by affliction
My follies to mourn ; Now under conviClion
To Thee I return.
Great God, my defert
Is nothing but death.
And hence to depart
For-ever in wrath ;
Yet, Lord, to this city Of refuge I flee,
0 let thine eye pity
A fmner like me !
For fince Thou haft faid.
Thou wilt caft out none
That flee to thine aid.
As fmners undone :
Now, Lord, I am come as Condemned to die.
And on this fweet promife
1 humbly rely.
1 cannot depart,
Dear Jesus, nor yield 'Till feels my poor heart
This promife fullill'd.
That
[ 94 3 That I may for-cver
A monument be To praife the free Saviour
Of fmners hke me.
The great ajfize.
LO, th' Almighty King of glory, Sends his awful fummons forth ! Calls the nations all before him
From the eaft, fouth, weft and north ! His loud trumpet, his loud trumpet, his loud trumpet Rends the tombs, the dead awake !
Now behold the dead arifmg ;
Great and fmall before him ftand : Not one foul forgot, or miffing ;
None his orders countermand. All ftand waiting, all ftand waiting, all ftand waiting For their laft decifive doom.
Now the Saviour, once defpifed,
Comes to judge the quick and dead ; See his foes, each one with horror.
Lifting up his guilty head. How they tremble ! how they tremble! how they tremble At the LAM B's tremendous bar !
Now they fee him on the rainbow,
With his countlefs guards around : Saints and angels his retinue.
With their harps of fweeteft found, Hallelujah ! hallelujah ! hallelujah !
Echoes fweet from all the choir.
Now
c 95 i"
Now his chofen gladly meet him,
All ieraphic, all divine ! Lo, they join the glorious army
Whofe bright robes the fun outfhine !
All triumphant ! all triumphant ! all triumphant!
See the grand redeemed throng !
Then behold the dreadful fentence
On the foes of Christ is pad : Down to hell without repentance
All the guilty crowd is caft, While the ranfom'd, while the ranfom'd, while the ranfom'd. All applaud the righteous doom.
Now attend the noble army,
Walli'd in their Red eemer'-s blood ; Swift and joyful is their journey,
To the palace of their God ! All vidorious 1 all vidorious ! all vidorious ! Hallelujah to the L A M B !
Epiphonema*
O ye Sinners, now give glory
To the great eternal Three ! While fuch danger lies before you.
Can vou unconcerned be ? Judgment haflens ! judgment haftens ! judgment haftens ! Mercy, mercy now implore !
1
ERRATUM. In page 8, 1. 21, inftead oi from read/o/' Patterfon's creek,—
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