GEORGIA MILITARY INDIAN WARS Newspaper Accounts Misc Jun-Aug 1836 ***************** Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/gafiles.htm *********************** This file was contributed for use in the USGenWeb Archives by: Lindy Hard ssautyvalleyfarm@worldnet.att.net Federal Union [newspaper, published Milledgeville, GA] microfilm roll Aug 1833-Aug 1836 Federal Union [microfilm roll Aug 1833-Aug 1836] 2 June 1836 Massacre at Roanoke.-From several persons who were at the burning and massace of Roanoke, we have learnt some additional particulars. Roanoke was a small village lying on the Chattahoochee, in Stewart county, some forty miles below Columbus. The first attack was made on Friday night 13th instant, by about thirty Indians, as is supposed, who fired upon the Steamer Georgian and killed all on board. They attacked the village, but were driven off by the whites who rallied on the spot. The second attack was made on Sunday morning, 16th instant just before day, by about three hundred Indians. A block-house we understand had been erected and picketed in.-The accounts do not agree as to the number of persons there-some say there were twenty or twenty-five men, besides women, chidlren and negroes. It weems they were not anticipating an attack, most of them being asleep in their own houses. The first that alarmed them, was the firing rifles and the yelling of the savages. The men sprang to their arms, and returned the Indians' fire-but seeing their number so large, immediately retreated, breaking their way through their midst. nine whites and three blacks were killed at the first fire and eight or nine wounded. It is not known what injury the Indians received. One man says he saw four fall. It was reported at first, that colonel F. G. GIBSON and captain J. U. HORN were among the killed-we are happy in being able to contradict that report. They were both wonded, the latter severely. Mr. ANDERSON WILLIAMS (brother-in-law of colonel GIBSON) was among the slain. The Indians carried a good many negroes and horses away with them. A confidential letter from colonel GIBSON written from Lumpkin the day after, thus describes the attack upon Roanoke, and his miraculous escape: "No apprehension ws felt of an attack, the men had nearly all gone out to Lumpkin, not more than twenty men in camp, which was near the ware house. I was sleeping in my own room, GAZAWAY (WILLIAMS) up stairs alone-just before day break I was awakened by the firing of the Indians-at that moment three fired through the window at my bed-I sprang out of bed, and on looking round could distinguish them at each window-I ran into the dining room whee I found every window occupied by two to three, and whenever I passed they fired on me. I determined to sell my life as dearly as possible, feeling confident my last hour had come-caught up my gun,--hollowed to Gazaway to make his escape-burst open the door going into the passage, when a volley was discharged at my breast-closed it and ran to the other door, determined to hazard all in endearoring to join the men at camp-on opening it two fired, and a number approached-I fired, shut the door, caught up another gun, opened and ran out of the door-from the door to the rence I passed through the midst of twenty or thirty, all shooting as fast as they could fire, some lying down-I ran so near their powder burnt my clothes-and a number at the fence-got through all untouched, except a blow given with a gun or something else, which nearly arrested me. I then, finding the men flying in all directions, reached and found a thick place of bushes growing over the branch-laid down in the water below the spring, the Indians passing within a few paces, constantly expecting every moment to be butchered.-Shortly afterwards, Talbot, captain HORN, (who was wounded,) and another gentleman pursued by several Indians, came to my retreat. I then gave up again all earthly hope of escape, and told them I had determined to run down and jump into the river. They insisted on my staying and all dying together. As our Maker would have it, the savages at that time commenced burning houses to which their attention was chiefly drawn, and we lay until 12 o'clock, suffering all that men could suffer in the cold water from the spring. On coming out was so benumbed with cold and bruises, could not walk up the hill. On reaching the bluff, discovered to our joy a party of soldiers had come to our relief and that the Indians had fled. We reached Lumpkin about dark. "GAZAWAY [WILLIAMS] seeing the Indians all flock after me, when I left the house, s prang out of the second story and made his escape, without being fired on. "Poor ANDERSON [WILLIAMS]! he was shot in the head face to face with the savage and expired without a groan. "KERSHAW ws shot in his own house; his wife and child with Mr. PIERCE, remained until the house was in flames and near falling in, when they made their escape. The two Mr. DONALSON's were sleeping in the back room of my house-they fell and were burnt up. One or two in MATTHEWS' house-making in all eight whites. Our dwelling and ware house, JOICE's store, STARKE's store, ROOD and SEYMOUR's, MATTHEWS' dwelling and new house, all burnt. "PETER (black boy) fought near ANDERSON [WILLIAMS] bravely. The Indians made great exertions to kill him." For several days after the burning of Roanoke, we learn the Indians kept possession of the place. On Sunday morning an expedition moved against it, with the intention of giving battle to the Indians if any were there. On arriving at the spot they found no Indians on the ground. A hard battle was expected, as in two or three previous skirmishes the Indians had remained masters of the field. The peoplel are turning ot in the counties surrounding Roanoke, on both sides of the Chattahoochee, en masse, determined to defend the soil with their lives.-Macon Telegraph, 26t ultimo. 16 June 1836 CREEK WAR. From the Columbus Herald, 7th inst. Creek War Incidents.-Troops continue to pour in from different counties, many of which are well mounted and armed, and all will be fully equipped in a day or two, and ready for service, when they will be immediately detailed, and put to the all important work of subduing the hostile Creeks. The chivalry and prowess of the Georgia troops was perhaps on no occasion better displayed than on the present-and the alacrity with which Volunteers from distant counties have repaired to the scene of danger, speaks volumes of praise for the spirited and patriotic sons of Georgia, and gives hearty assurance of their readiness at all times to battle for their beloved country and her rights. Gen. SANFORD with promptitude, equal to the emergency, immediately on organizing his staff removed his Head-Quarters to Fort Ingersoll, a fortress which has been thrown up since the present excitement, and is planted upon Alabama soil. To 'cross the river' and 'pitch tent,' under all the circumstances of the times were, agreeably to our notions, good motives, and precisely corresponded with our preconceived opinions of Gen. SANFORD's character as an officer. Nothing delays him from a march to the enemies' strong hold, but the want of more provisions. On Wednesday last the troops, as many as had then arrived, were collected at Fort Ingersoll, and regularly mustered into the service of the United States. Gov. SCHLEY was present on the occasion, and addressed the troops. In the course of his remarks, he took occasion to advert to the many objectioons which had been made by volunteers being mustered into the regular service; set forth in a clear view the reasons why this muster should take place, the necessity for it, and the utter confusion that would prevail in attempting to conduct an army upon any other principle. He exhorted them to fidelity to their country, and portrayed in accurate and eloquent language, the high and honorable character of the soldier. On Saturday morning Maj. Gen. JESSUP took his departure for Tuskeegee, a town located in the Nation about midway from Columbus to Montgomery-he was escorted by the Bibb and Talbot cavalry and a number of volunteer citizens, in all amounting to about 200 men. Gen. J. will take command of the Alabama forces. A battalion of Cavalry, 220 strong under the command of Maj. HOWARD, left on Saturday morning for the vicinity of Mr. BOYKIN's plantation about 20 miles below this place, where it was understood that a large party of Indians were endeavoring to cross the river, supposed to be on their way to Florida. We presume this to have been JIM HENRY's band, and we invoke all the good fortune of war upon the head of HOWARD, that he may fall upon the path of [JIM] HENRY and literally 'use him up.' We await news from this detachment with a geat deal of interest. The entire force now on the Chattahoochee is not less than 2000 effective men-men who have voluntarily travelled from 50 to 200 miles, with the sole object of fighting savage foes, the question is no longer, are the Indians hostile? But shall we, can we get a fight is heard from each soldier. Revenge is busy with their gallant spirits-the voice of kindred blood cries from the graves of those who have been cruelly butchered in the very midst of their innocence, and whilst honestly laboring to sustain themselves and their families in a new and uncultivated land. Many families who were driven from their homes have bid farewell to the country of their adoption, and returned to the State from which they migrated; others hold to their homesteads with an unflinching grasp resolved to re-occupy the soil which they have moistened with their sweat, or perish in the attempt. We stated in a former number that Gen. WOODWARD had visited our city, together with 8 Indians and 11 white men. Gen. W. made an effort to beat up Volunteers during his visit, with a view to scour the Nation, but his exertions proved abortive, there being no spare arms or ammunition in town at that time; and he returned, we believe, with but 8 men. We had entertained some fears for his safety, as his route homeward lay directly through a section of country, where the Indians were known to be hostile. It was with pleasure that we were informed on Saturday last, that he had reached home in safety. He however discovered a ____ party on his way, who were standing on the top of a hill watching his movements; from their position Gen. WOODWARD had good reasons to believe that there were probably a large number of hostiles on the other side of the hill.-After a moment's reflection, WOODWARD concluded to charge upon them, and on doing so the Indians fled to the thicket. The steamboat Metamora on her passage from Apalacicola was fired on by the Indians about 8 miles above Roanoke. The Metamora was pressed at Irwinton by Capt. WOOD, who had under his command two volunteer companies from Randolph county Ga and the "Volunteer Guards" commanded by Capt. BOOTH, from Pike county, Alabama,--in all about 130 men.-Their object was to run up to Columbus on the steamboat, with a view to pick up a fight with the Indians if possible; and as they desired, so they had it. About 20 hostiles appeared on the west bank of the river, and pulled trigger on the boat; three individuals were wounded among the whites.-Messrs. OWENS, SMITH, and BUTLER. Mr. OWENS dangerously; Capt. BOOTH was smoothly shaved by an Indian bullet, it passing over the surface of his chin, and leaving not a whit of beard behind. In this "sharp shooting," there were from 10 to 15 Indians killed. The force of the hostile foe in Alabama has been so variously estimated, that we have taken some pains to ascertain their true numbers. There are in the Creek nation 8,000 (low estimate) warriors, including boys capable of doing much mischief. There are 700 friendly Indians in the camps of O poth-le Yo-ho-lo and E-che Had jo; 300 in Chambers county; 80 at this place, and 20 at Fort Mitchell; making in all 1,000 friendly warriors. The Indians have all been repeatedly invited to come in ; their hostility has been put upon this issue, and every inducement offered to bring them under our protection. Ne-ah Mic-co has 700 warriors at Wa-loo-ta-ha-ka, and is by some thought to be friendly; but such is not the case. General WOODWARD expresses to us no doubts of his hostility-and we perused a letter a few days since written at Ne-ah Mic-co's camp, which detailed nothing but a long series of the most wanton and bloodthirsty actions. There can be no doubt, but that the murderous attack upon the stages was made by a band from his camp-some of the stage horses having been found in their possession. After the most thorough inquiry upon the subject we cannot believe that the hostile party number less than 6,000. To prevent these savages from escaping into Florida, and to chastise them in their own country, will require a large force; the former object is of great moment. Should many reach Florida, it is impossible to foresee the termination of the war; one warrior in Florida being equal, we think to ten in Alabama. From the Columbus Enquirer, 9th instant. No movement of the main body of the troops has yet taken place. Arms and ammunition are as necessary in war as men. So soon as these can be obtained, it is believed the army will take up the line of march in order to subdue the Indians. Measures have been taken to prevent the hostiles from escaping to Florida through the thinly settled part of Georgia, which they will no doubt attempt. The troops leave their present encampment this morning, and will be stationed about three miles below here in Alabama. Several skirmishes have taken place down the river since our last. On Friday, a company under the direction of captain Brown, consisting of parts of captains BROWN's, M'CREARY's and CARR's commands, discovered a considerable number of Indians attempting to cross the river. The whites fired upon them and killed in the engagement, four or five. One of captain Brown's company, from Crawford, by the name of CROSLAND, ws killed. The whites sustained no other loss. An attack was made on the steamboat Metamora on Saturday last whilst ascending the river [… see article…] the following particulars of the fight have been furnished us by the officers in command of the expedition. On Saturday, an attack was made on the steamer Metamora LOYD captain, which at that time contained the following companies, viz. captain BOOTH's company, Pike Guards, from Alabama, captain ADAIR's company of Randolph Blues, and captain SNELGROVE's company from Randolph county, Georgia. In consequence of the Indians having made frequent attacks on the boats passing up and down the river the these troops, who were at that time in Irwinton, determined to pass up, in order to obtain a brush with them-the entire companies were not ordered on this duty, but those who came, volunteered their servcie for the purpose. The Pike [AL] Guards are a mounted company, but so strong was their belief that the boat would be attacked, that they left their horses in Irwinton, to which place they returned on Wednesday. […see article…] In this attack, a man by the name of Samuel Butler, belonging to the Pike [AL] Guards, and one of the boat hands (name unknown,) were severely wounded […see article…] One man BENJAMIN OWENS, of the Pike [AL] Guards, was wounded--it is feared mortally, in this engagement. […see article…] 16 June 1836 Stationed at Fort Ingersoll, Major General Sanford. COUNTIES CORPS CAPTAIN NO Baldwin, mounted volunteers Gaither 55 Bibb, mounted volunteers M'Call 41 Burke, cavalry, volunteers Byne 47 Clark, infantry, volunteers Ligon, 92 Crawford, infantry, volunteers Carr 62 Coweta, infantry, volunteers Anderson 87 Fayette, cavalry, volunteers Stinson, 53 Gwinnett, cavalry, volunteers Germany 76 Gwinnett, infantry, volunteers Reid 91 Greene, infantry, volunteers Dawson 99 Harris, drafted infantry Vardeman 96 Henry, cavalry, volunteers Love 66 Henry, infantry, volunteers Dodson 71 Heard, infantry, volunteers Dent 44 Houston, cavalry, volunteers Dennard 59 Houston, drafted infantry Smith 102 Jasper, drafted infantry Roe 51 Jasper, drafted infantry Lane 49 Jones, drafted infantry Hardeman 91 Laurens, infantry, volunteers Troup 56 Marion, drafted infantry Berry 77 Marriwether, drafted infantry Sloan 85 Monroe, cavalry, volunteers, Flewellen 75 Monroe, drafted infantry Russell 50 Monroe, drafted infantry Stewart 80 Morgan, infantry, volunteers Porter 61 Muscogee, drafted infantry Coleman 90 Muscogee, artillery, Hoxey 85 Muscogee, infantry, volunteers Urquhart 74 Muscogee, infantry, volunteers Evans 84 Oglethorpe, infantry, volunteers Hill 107 Pike, cavalry, volunteers Lynch 53 Pike, drafted infantry Allen 51 Pulaski, drafted infantry Hodges 32 Talbot, cavalry, volunteers Bush 101 Talbot, infantry, volunteeers Miller 54 Taliaferro, infantry, volunteers Sanford 90 Troup, infantry, volunteers Sledge 66 Troup, cavalry, volunteers Kendrick 73 Troup, infantry, volunteers Hardin 90 Upson, cavalry, volunteers Crute 88 Upson, cavalry, volunteers Beall 85 Wilkes, infantry, volunteers Toomes 105 Wilkinson, infantry, volunteers Burney 50 Total 3237 __________ From the Standard of Union, 14th instant. Extract of a letter from the Governor, dated Columbus, 10th June, 1836. "One steamboat, armed and manned, with captain WILLIAM C DAWSON's company, is cruising on the river, and another will leave here tomorrow. The Indians are very bold. They cross the river, and give us battle below this. There have been several skirmishes. DAWSON's boat had one, yesterday with Indians that had just come from General WATSON's plantation, where they had shot three negro women-one, it is thought, will die. No harm done on either side, in the skirmish with Dawson's company. "Yesterday evening at six o'clock, the Indians, to the number of two hundred, crossed near Roanoke, at SHEPHERD's plantation, and attacked Captain GERMANY's company of about forty. The Captain was wounded in the thigh, and several were killed and wounded. A detachment of thirty, under Captain JERNIGAN, of Stewart, went to their relief, but were repulsed with loss." GWINNETT TROUP.-This corps, commanded by Captain GARMANY, has been attacked near Fort M'Creary, about eighteen miles below Columbus, by a considerable body of Indians, and various and contradictory reports have prevailed, as to the loss which is sustained. By the last statement, which we believe to be true, four of our men weere killed, and three were missing, besides the wounded. 2 Aug 1836 From the Columbus Sentinel, 29th ult. THE WAR NOT YET ENDED. On Sunday morning last a severe engagement took place as usual, between the Georgians and the Indians, in the neighborhood of Mr. QUALL's [QUARLES in another article] plantation , above Roanoke-We have not received the particulars of the fight but learn that information was given to the forces stationed at Fort M'Crary, that fresh signs of the Indians had been discovered in a swamp in Mr. QUALL's plantation; upon which captain CALHOUN, of DeKalb county, with a command of ninety men, were despatched in pursuit of the enemy. In scouring the place a fresh trail was found, leading out of the swamp in the direction of Lumpkin. It was followed. In a short time the party came up with a small gang of Indians, of thirty or more, and commenced the fight. The Indians soon fled, leaving seven of their number killed. The whites, after the first skirmish, supposed the Indians whipped and the fight over; but they found that this advance party was a mere decoy, to draw them into the midst of their enemies, by whom they soon found themselves completely flanked on both sides. The battle was renewed, but the ammunition of the whites being exhausted, they were compelled to retreat. In the engagement the whites lost five killed, and several wounded. Among the slain were, Mr. COLLY, (overseer for D. P. HILLHOUSE, Esq.,) a brave man, and much respected; a Mr. WILLIS, and Dr. ORR, of DeKalb-the names of the others are not yet known to us. It is said that the whites had only three rounds of cartridges apiece when the fight first commenced-a very unfortunate oversight, indeed, and if true, whooly unpardonable in the commanding officer. Something of this sort was surely the matter or the DeKalb boys would never have turned their backs upon their enemy, although they may have outnumbered them three to one. Upon the receipt of this intelligence, general SANFORD issued the following order: HEADQUARTERS first Army Corps, Army of the South.} Columbus, July 25, 1836. ORDER No. 130.-The apprehensions of the major general that the enemy would reassemble in force on the disbandment of the troops has been but two sadly verified; a party of Indians amounting probably to two hundred have again invaded out soil; they are doubtless seeking a covert in the Chickasahatchee swamp. An energetic pursuit must be immediately adopted and the enemy must be overtaken, and overcome; captains DELAPANER, SLEDGE and BOSTWICK, with their companies will immediately proceed to the reinforcement of the detachment now at Fort M'Creary: the instructions contained in order No 129 will be rigidly pursued by the senior officer of the whole force, who will take command of the detachment. In addition to these instructions, he wil consider himself as not being confined to the limits of one county, but if necessary, pursue them to the Florida line-he will remember the Indians must not escape. Supplies of arms, ammunition and subsistence, will be immediately forwarded to Fort M'Creary, and every disposition made to check the escape of the enemy. By order of major general SANFORD. W. S. ROCKWELL, Aid-de-camp. On Monday, captain JERNIGAN, of Stewart county, with what force he could hastily collect among the citizens of that county, went to pursuit and overtook the Indians about fifteen miles below Lumpkin. He engaged them, and it is said lost four killed and a number wounded. The loss of the Indians not known. Captain JERNIGAN, we are further informed, had the Indians hemmed in a swamp, and was waiting for general SANFORD to come up, (who had with him major HOXEY's command from this place, and a company from Coweta county,) when it was supposed a general engagement would take place. Passengers who arrived here yesterday, report that they heard brisk firing in that direction as they passed the road. It is also stated that a party of Indians, supposed to be four hundred, had crossed between Irwinton and Roanoke, and that general WELBORN, with troops from the former place, had marched to interrupt them. We wait with anxiety to hear the result of those movements. We learn since writing the above, that the three persons killed on Monday, under captain JERNIGAN, were a Mr. MOORE, Mr. WILLIAMS and Mr. BRYAN, and ROBERT WIMBERLY mortally wounded [Note that the names here do entirely agree with those in captain Jernigan's official report.llh] -five others badly wounded, but expected to recover. The Indians were still in the swamp, when captain JERNIGAN engaged them, and were watched by the company, waiting for general SANFORD's approach. Our informant states that he heard an express had been received at Fort Mitchell on yesterday, (Thursday,) that three white men had been killed the day previous at or near Fort Henderson, fifteen miles below Fort Mitchell, on the Alabama side of the river-the names not heard, nor the particulars given. The marines who were stationed at that fort, had been ordered away some time since. The Indians were hard a work upon their rafts at night-evidently preparing for another excursion to Florida or the impenetrable swamps of Baker, Thomas and Lowndes counties; where, if they once get a foothold, they will have their women and children, and carry fire and sword, murder and devastation, through the surrounding country, and sometimes penetrating to their old homes in Alabama. It will require a large force constantly engaged to prevent these fugitive gangs of Indians from crossing the river, and ruining the intervening country between Roanoke and Florida. We fear our army was disbanded too soon; but, as fifteen hundred Tennesseans have arrived and are now under the command of general JESSUP, that officer, co-operating with general SANFORD, they will have ample force between them, as we hope and believe to overcome all the hostile Indians who remain out. Much anxiety is felt in regard to the friendly Indians, in anticipating their removal. It is feared that many of them will become hostile, when they find they also are compelled to go. We learn that general JESSUP is making the necessary disposition of his forces to act effeciently in case any resistance should be offered. 16 Aug 1836 Gallant Affair.-The following account of the late battle in which the brave citizens of Thomas and Lowndes counties, under captains NEWMAN and SHARPE were engaged is entitled to implicit confidence. The coolness and bravery displayed on this occasion, would have done credit to tried soldiers. The action was commenced and maintained against more than twice their number, occupying a strong position.-These same men had previouslydistinguished themselves at the battle of the Chickisawhatchee. Georgia may well be proud of such sons as these. "Information having been received at Thomasville, Georgia, on Tuesday, the 12th inst. that a party of Indians had been see about forty miles north of that place, travelling in the direction of Florida, a company of volunteers to the number of some forty-six or seven, was instantly raised, captain NEWMAN placed in command, and pursuit made the same day. On Thursday, captain Newman was joined by captain PIKE of Lowndes, with thirty-five men.-Major YOUNG, of Thomas, was elected to the command of the two companies. A scouting party, which had been detached, discovered fifteen Indians in the fork of the Warrior and Little Rivers, in Lowndes county. Major YOUNG immediately proceeded to drive the swamp, which is upwards of three miles in extent; but in consequence of a very heavy rain which fell and wet the arms of the troops, they were not able to make so close a search as was desired, and failed to make any discovery.-That evening major YOUNG'S force was augmented by the arrival of captain TUCKER, of Thomas, with twenty-five, and captain SHARPE of Lowndes, with fifteen men, making an aggregate of one hundred and thirty-six men in the battalion. Captain SHARPE having been dispatched on Friday morning, to examine the wood bordering on the swamp, for the purpose of ascertaining whether or not the Indians had effected their escape, discovered their trail still leading towards Florida, sent a runner with the intelligence to major YOUNG, who joined in the pursuit. Before the main body came up with SHARPE, and earlier than expected, he found himself in contact with the Indians; their war hoop and fire from their covert, giving him the first intimation of their presence. He was repulsed by the vastly superior number of the enemy, with the loss of one man killed and one wounded; and fell back two miles, when he met major YOUNG coming up to his assistance. The major speedily pressed forward and engaged the enemy, about three miles from the place of the first action. The fire was opened upon the advance guard, comprised of forty volunteers from the several companies, commanded by captain SHARPE; the Indians charging at the same time. But the prompt support offered by the battalion, and an immediate charge, in which captain NEWMAN and his command took the lead, the Indians were not only driven back to their strong-hold, but dislodged and forced to betake themselves to a large cypress swamp, which lay in their rear. Here they rallied and renewed the fight, and distinguished themselves by a boldness that savages rarely exhibit. They could not, however, withstand the spirited charge of the troops, who drove them from their position, throught a similar swamp, to two bay ponds, and an extent of ground covered with its timber by a recent hurricane, making altogether a distance of three miles from the place the fire was opened upon the advance guard. Two warriors only, were seen to enter the Allapahaw swamp; others may possibly have made their escape, but were not known to do so. Of the whites, three were killed and eight wounded. Killed-BURTON FERREL, of Thomas, PENNYWELL FOLSOM and EDM'D. SHANKS, of Lowndes. Wounded-JAMES I BLACKSHEAR, JOHN HANCOCK, ANGUS M'AULLY, DONALD M'LEAN, JAMES MUNROE and SCRIVEN GAULDING, of Thomas; ROBERT PARISH and ------- HENDERSON, of Lowndes. The wound of the latter it is supposed will prove fatal. Several horses were killed and wounded in the first of the engagement, but none afterwards; the ground being so rugged, horses could not be used. In consequence of the great extent of ground over which the battle was fought, the wounded, and the immediate attention required by several of them from the dangerous nature of their wounds, together with the exhaused state of the troops, a thorough search could nt be made; but after a slight investigation, twenty-two warriors and two negro fellows were found dead.- Nine women and the like number of children were captured. The women state that there were sixty warriors; and also that they composed a part of the force which colonel Beall cut to pieces in the Chickisahatchee swamp. They crossed Flint river on the night of the 3d of July, the day after BEALL's victory, and remained in the swamp a week on this side of the river, before they took up their line of march for Florida. From the fact of no more having collected at the designated place of rendezvous within that time, they conclude that a large number was killed by colonel BEALL.-Tallahassee Floridian. 30 Aug 1836 MAJ. JERNIGAN'S OFFICIAL REPORT. Head-Quarters, Lumpkin, Ga. [Stewart Co GA] August 5, 1836. General-After the battle on Sunday, the 24th July, I received by verbal express, a desire on the part of officers in command at Fort McCreary, to reinforce them with my company early next morning on the battle ground, and take up the pursuit of the savage foe, who were directing their course to Florida. I returned a written message on Sunday night, saying to the officers I would meet and co-operate with them early next morning. At this time my company were at their home recruiting. I forthwith summoned and collected those of my company were nearest, and called upon citizens for assistance. Early next morning I was informed the Indians had crossed the Cuthbert road, seven miles below this place. I therefore knew it would be a loss of time to go to the battle ground, and also anticipating your orders to pursue with energy, determined to take up the pursuit with my own force-I immediately informed the officers at Fort McCreary of the travel of the enemy-that I should endeavor to cut them off from the swamps below, and I desired their immediate aid, which, however, I did not receive. I set out for Mrs. WAMBLES' on the Fort Gaines road, and soon ascertained the Indians had crossed Petawla creek, and gained the west side of the road, and were making their way for Echowanotchaway swamp. I found their trail, at which time I was reinforced by citizen soldiers-I organized my company, and citizens of Stewart and Randolph counties, eighty in the whole, and with advance and flank guards pursued their trail. After a march of three miles struck the plantation of Mr. REUBEN JONES.-The Indians scattered, and I am sorry to say, my advance guard separated also. Captain THOMAS STAPLETON commanding the advance went with a few others through the cornfield-I was met by one of the guard, and informed that the principal trail had pased on the west side of the plantation, which I pursued until my own guardman gave me a signal to halt. He returned and stated he had seen the Indians encamped on a branch swamp, and thought himself undiscovered by the enemy. I despatched him to give signals to the flanks to return into line, and if possible to return captain THOMAS STAPLETON with the balance of the advance. He, however, soon returned without being able to find captain S. I dismounted my company in silence, detailed a horse guard, and was preparing for a silent approach upon the camp, when, to my great sorrow, a brisk firing took place between captain STAPLETON's guard and the Indians. The first thought that occurred to me was, that my little band, who had passed through the field, were surrounded. I therefore determined, instead of approaching them in silence, that I would make a furious charge, thereby divert them from the advance guard, and turn them to me; which effect was produced, but not in time to save the unfortunate captain STAPLETON. He had fallen. The battle commenced: the ground was closely contested by both white and red men. We drove them back one hundred yards, at which time they ceased their yells. I ordered a charge, but such was their superiority of members, my order was not obeyed. My men continued the firing, and the Indians returned the blast from the thicket and branch. They having decidedly the advantage of the ground, I ordered a retreat of one hundred and fifty yards, bearing my wounded before me, expecting the Indians would pursue and give us an equal chance with them, (except in numbers) which, however, they did not do. My wounded were carried to the house of captain STAPLETON, to receive attention. With the balance of my force I returned to the scene of action, and found the bodies of captain STAPLETON, THOMAS WILLIAMS, jun. and a young man by the name of COOK, who lived with D. M. LESEUR, of Stewart county. I saw evident marks of Indians being dragged from the ground. Their loss is unknown. My loss was three killed and seven wounded. The names of the wounded are CLEMENTS BRYAN, of Randolph, in the shoulder, severely; ROBERT WELLBORN, through the chest; ----- FELDER, arm broke; ---- ---- MARTIN, in the leg; N. R. BRYAN, in the throat, by a spent ball; WILLIAM SHIELD, in the foot; one other slightly wounded, name not recollected. The battle continued about fifty minutes. The number of the enemy estimated between two and three hundred. After returning to the house of Mr. JONES, near the ground of encampment, I made preparation and ordered my dead to Lumpkin, for interment, and being near night, encamped. Battle closed about twelve o'clock, M., Monday, 25th July. Tuesday morning, 26th, I resumed the pursuit, and found the trail, which passed many swamps and bogs, and such was the irregularity of their course, that ten miles travel upon the trail, led me within two miles of the battle ground. They were either lost, or hoped I would overrun their trail and go on below. About twelve o'clock, after crossing Echowanotchaway, their course was easily determined.-I pursued until near sunset: found I was near them, and they travelled down a large swamp. I halted my company, believing it best not to apprize them of my close pursuit, it being so near dark that nothing effective could be done in the swamp. I sent out spies, and kept out strong camp guard at Mr. BROWN'S, where I spent the night. My spies returned, and reported the enemy travelling slowly. I was this evening reinforced by a company from Lannahassee, Stewart county, commanded by captain GALBA MATTHEWS; and at camp by GUILFORD'S company, and a part of captain SNELLGROVE'S company, colonel WOOD, major WILLS, and captain SMITH, together with many other brave officers and soldiers, joined in the pursuit at this camp, the force now amounting to about three hundred men. A council of officers was called, who unanimously requested me to take the general command, to which I consented, and requested colonel WOOD, of Randolph, to aid me by extending my orders through the line, to which he agreed. I divided my own company into three captain's commands, and assigned to major T. J. STILL, captain G. B. BALL, and captain N. CLIFTON, each a division. I issued orders to captains commanding to prepare for a day light march. At this place, I received your complimentary orders confiding in me to pursue and check the enemy. Wednesday, 27th. This morning before sunrise the line was formed, and troops in motion, and for two reasons without breakfast.-First, no time to cook; and second, nothing to cook. The trail was soon discovered, and about three miles below the camp my advance guard under command of captain MOYE, heard the Indians crossing Turkey creek, at its confluence with the main Echowanotchaway. I advanced to the spot, and prepared for battle; ordered the advance forward, and in crossing Turkey creek, which was swimming, the Indians fired several scattering guns from thick cane brakes, and seemed to be moving forward. I ordered the advance guard to return and join the main force, as I knew were very close upon them. I wished to guard every point until I could go around and view the situation, and make an effectual blow upon them. I despatched captain MATTHEW'S [,]GUILFORDS AND SNELLGROVE'S command to station on the eastern side of the main creek, and below the Chumba and Turkey creeks. I stationed captain CLIFTON'S company on the trail which entered the swamp. Captain STILL'S and BALL'S companies I marched across the main creek, and despatched captain STILL to a trail through the swamp, which was said to be about two miles. The pilot who gave me the information professed to know the country well. The distance, however, proved to be five miles. Having now the few points guarded and knowing the Indians were below us, I despatched captain BALL to inform my eastern division that their force would be the ones required to approach the swamp; and as the point covered by captain BALL'S company, was the least probable for the Indian's escape, I should blow the horn before I countermarched, to induce the enemy to believe that a station was kept there. I accordingly joined the companies of captain BALL and CLIFTON together, and from each detailed a guard, and moved my horses to the high land. Captain BALL returned and informed me of the arrival of general WILLIAM WELLBORNE, of Irwinton, who brough ten men under his command. The general on his march to join my eastern division was cursed and damned by the Indians in the cane brake. He reached the station without being fired on, and by consent and request of the captains, commanded and led that division. The minute appointed, and signals of entry into the swamp being understood, with a part of captain B's and C's companies, I marched to the swamp.-At precisely 11 o'clock my signal guns were fired. The signals being understood, the line of march was taken up. I knew from Indian character in war, they were well prepared for battle, and would vigilantly guard their trail; and rom what had passed between them and general WELLBORN, that spies would be place upon the eastern force, I therefore determined, if possible, to take them by surprise. I marched through Turkey and Chumba creeks, leaving the Indian trail on my right. After marching about three hundred yards, the mud and water thickly set with cane, I discovered a bushy water oak; I sent a spy up the tree, who reached the distance of forty feet, and returned down, and reported the camp at the distance of three hundred yards, all cane brake, until we reached the hammock, upon which they were situated. He pointed out a noted forked pine, as a landmark. He also informed me that he could discern spies watching their trail, and others watching general WELLBORN'S division. I directed captains BALL and CLIFTON to move forward, inclining to the left, in order to give them an attack broadside. The march was continued until I could hear the Indians talk. I ordered a halt by giving signs, and despatched colonel WOOD, with others, to gain the rear of general WELLBORN, and inform him where I was situated, the situation of the Indians &c. My messengers had not been absent two minutes before a dreadful firing took place between general WELLBORN and the Indians. I ordered a charge with the sound of the horn, and in thirty seconds from the fire of the first gun, the two companies gained the hammock, and covered the line of Indians broadside. The firing from all quarters was heavy and animated. The Indians fought with more desperation and gave up the ground with more reluctance than any battle I have had with them. Such was their determination to keep the ground, I saw one shot down not more than thirty steps. Charge was the order of the day, and was ordered by officers, and performed by soldiers, well worthy of their country's praise. The engagement lasted forty-five minutes, and ended about half past 1 o'clock. After forcing them from their strong positions, two infant children were heard to cry in the cane brake. I had them brought to the battle ground. My loss were three killed-Mr. CARTER, of Irwinton, Ala., DAVID SUTLEY, of Randolph and JOHN CROCKER, jr, of Lumpkin. I had thirteen wounded-a part of these whose wounds were slight, returned to their homes.-The following is a list of the wounded: E. BUTLER, ---- FRITH, THOMAS SHEPHERD, WILLIS BARTON, WILLIAM HUGHES, colonel WOOD and WILLIAM HILBORNE of Randolph, LEWIS WILLIAMS, RICHARD CANNADY and captain GREEN B BALL, of Stewart, captain JENKINS and -----PATTERSON, of Irwinton, Alabama. The loss of the Indians cannot be ascertained. Such was the extent of the swamp, teir escape with deadly wounds is not a matter of surprise. Eighteen were found dead, some of them three miles from the battle ground. I returned to the camp bearing on twelve pack horses and two ponies, c aptured from the Indians, near one thousand dollars worth of Roanoke [Roanoke, Stewart Co Ga had been attacked by Indians 13 May 1836] goods. The most of the horses were lost in the battle on Sunday near Fort McCrary, and I am happy to say have been identified and restored to their owners. The goods were divided out to captains of companies, who distributed them to their soldiers. Wednesday night, at Camp Fillingame, I had the pleasure of seeing you with reinforcements. One infant was taken by my company on the next morning near the battle ground, and since my return to my station, I am informed that one of the citzens found a girl six years old. The three infants not exceeding six months old, were taken away by gentlemen who seemed pleased to have them. I returned to my station agreeably to your orders. Nothing has occurred worth notion since my letters to you at your camp in Baker. In conclusion, I owe it to those brave officers to state that general WELLBORN, colonel WOOD, major WILLIS, captains BALL, GUILFORD, STILL, SNELLGROVE AND MATTHEWS, discharged the respective duties assigned them, as officers, to my entire satisfaction-moved forward with that fearless courage which moved our forefathers in '76. Their motto was, "Do or Die!" I am, very respectfully, yours, H. W. JERNIGAN, Captain commanding Stewart County Randers, Major General JOHN W. A. STANFORD, Headquarters, Columbus.