Editor’s Note: For those following these previously unpublished letters between Nathan Meeker and officials in Washington, D.C., it’s worth pointing out that the letters below were written just a few months before the uprising of the White River Utes and Meeker’s death.
White River Agency, Colorado
July 2, 1879
Sir: I have received complaint from Governor Pitkin, Denver, to the effect that the Utes of this agency are in North Park warning the settlers to leave, and threatening death if they do not obey. I shall have Douglas send into North Park to recall those of his own band, at least, numbering about 40 lodges; the rest are under nobody’s control except themselves. Jack, the other principal chief besides Douglas, is here farming; so is Douglas but the great body are broken into small bands, subject to no authority. Some who have gone thither, and were well-disposed, asked me for authority to go, but I refused, and they finally went off. There are here this summer only from 30 to 40 lodges.
You are witness that I have repeatedly reported to you of the absence of the Indians from their reservation, being generally on Snake and Bear Rivers; and I have, agreeably to your directions, often requested the military at Fort Steele, through the commandant, to clear those valleys, but no attention was paid, and no answers given. North Park is the best hunting ground in America, but it is too elevated for general farming. Recently gold discoveries have been made; a great many miners have gone in, and the Indians wish to occupy the ground. A collision is by no means improbable.
No sort of necessity exists for the Indians being away, only they prefer their wild life, and until restrained by military force, either of the Army or of the Militia, things will go on as hitherto.
N.C. MEEKER,
Indian Agent,
White River Agency, Colo.
Hon. E.A. Hayt
Commissioner
White River Agency, Colorado
July 7, 1879
Sir: In making out form 3 for weekly voucher of articles issued to Indians, for which they are to give their receipt, I am at a loss in regard reporting the number of beef steers killed, as there is no column in which they can be placed. Please instruct as what I am to do.
N.C. MEEKER,
Indian Agent,
White River Agency, Colo.
Hon. E.A. Hayt
Commissioner
White River Agency, Colorado
July 7, 1879
Sir: Having received authentic information that my Indians are committing trespass on Bear and Snake Rivers, and in Middle Park, burning timber and wantonly destroying game, I have sent an employee, Harry Dresser and Douglas, the Chief, thither, to cause them to return to their reservation. A large band is in North Park, threatening ranchmen and miners, and I have requested the commandant at Fort Steele to cause these to return to the reservation.
Respectfully,
N.C. MEEKER, Esq.
Indian Agent,
White River Agency, Colo.
Hon. E.A. Hayt
Commissioner
