Narrative of John Phelps


This brief sketch and history of events that I have passed through from 
my earliest days to the present time, is to be left as a record to my 
family and relatives who may follow after me.  As my life has been a 
somewhat eventful one, my history may be of interest to my relatives 
and friends when I have passed away.  I, therefore, shall endeavor to 
give a brief and correct account of my travels, acts and doings as I 
passed through the various vicissitudes and difficulties along the 
journey of life.  

I was born in Bedford County, Virginia, on the 8th day of August, A.D. 1796.  I spent my juvenile days 
there, which were the happiest of my existence.  By then I was eight years old.  I was put to work on the 
farm and kept in constant employment except the winter months.  I then went to school.  It was the early 
training to habits of industry and labor that gave me a vigorous constitution which has served me in the most 
trying hardships which I have been forced to encounter through life.  It may not be improper to say that I 
was taught by my parents never to do anything that I was ashamed of, to hold my honor above price or 
temptation.  Their early instruction has been of great advantage to me.  It grew with my growth and 
strength, it became so interwoven with my nature that to do a thing I was taught not to do; or, in other 
words, that was wrong, left a deep impression on me, and often a source of many unhappy hours to show 
the great necessity of proper training of youth that when he gets old he will not depart from it.  It will 
become part and parcel of his nature and stand as a beacon light to steer to, will guide him from the shoals, 
breakers and quicksands which lay in the way through the journey of life.  

I will here recite a circumstance that happened when I was quite a small boy.  I had been fishing in a little 
creek.  On my return home I passed through a tobacco field of one of our neighbors where there was a large 
quantity of watermelons.  As I passed along I kept thumping the melons to see if they were ripe. The 
temptation was too great and I came to the conclusion that I would take one and go into the woods and eat 
it; accordingly I plucked one off and started for the thicket to ear it. Now comes in the force of proper 
training. I felt I was doing wrong, in fact that I was stealing; the remorse of conscience that I felt from the 
departure of principles which I had been taught overpowered me.  I could not, I would not steal the melon; 
it would do no good to throw it away.  So I concluded I would bust it open on a stump and eat it in the open 
field.  This being done, I determined to go to the neighbor's house and tell him what I had done.  On my 
arrival at the neighbor's house, I approached him with a heavy heart and addressed him in these words: "Mr. 
Terry, I was passing through your tobacco grounds, pulled one of your watermelons and ate it."  His reply 
was: "My little man, you are welcome to it; you can go there whenever you want them, so that you don't 
waste them."  It can be better imagined than I can describe my feelings of gratitude for those kind and 
benevolent words.  It dispersed the doubt and gloom that overshadowed me.  I tripped off home with a light 
and cheerful heart, determined never to place myself in such a position again.  

I give this little narrative to show how important it is to train up children in the way they should go.  I am 
well aware that parents have a sympathy for their children and in some cases indulge them too much, to their 
detriment and injury.  If you would have them respected, teach them to be respectful to others.  It will 
always be reciprocal. 

In the fall of 1810 my father moved to Middle Tennessee.  I was then entering my fifteenth year.  He settled 
in Wilson County and commenced opening a farm in a heavy timbered country.  There was little transpiring, 
worth noting, for the first two or three years, as it was quite a new settled place.  All our energies were 
turned to improving the farm, building a residence and out-buildings. In the year 1812 or 1813 I took it into 
my head that if I were from under the control of my parents I could do much better for myself.  My 
intentions were known to them, which were positively objected to.  It did not discourage me in the least.  I 
told my mother that I was unalterably determined to go.  It gave her much trouble but finding that all her 
entreaties were unavailing, she set about preparing suitable clothes, and necessaries that I was to take.  My 
father still opposed my leaving home and said that if I went I would go without money.  All this did not 
discourage me.  Thinking it would be to my advantage to have an introductory letter to whomsoever it might 
concern, stating that I was of a respectable family and of good habits, and deserving the confidence of 
whomever might give me employment, the document was signed by many citizens.  

Thus armed with a recommendation and a few dollars handed to me by my mother, I set out on a delusive 
journey, on foot, with my knapsack on my back; bound for the Saline Salt Works, in the Territory of Illinois.  
I had before me a distance of two hundred miles through mud and mire, in the winter.  I did not mind the 
fatigue and hardship so much as the idea of carrying a knapsack on my back.  I had always looked upon one 
traveling in that condition as a low, degraded fellow.  I, therefore, endeavored to shun every house on the 
road, that I possibly could. 

I arrived at the Ohio River on Saturday night, crossed next morning and proceeded on my way, arriving at 
the Saline Lick in the evening, a distance of twenty-five miles, tired and hungry. My first object was to find a 
tavern to stay at until I could get employment.  But this proved fruitless.  There was no tavern kept there.  I 
roamed about, hunting a place, in a rather disconsolate mood. I began to realize the forlorn, unpleasant 
condition that I had placed myself in, against the urgent appeal and advice of my parents and friends. 

It was growing late and I had visited most of the road huts, without the least prospect of getting shelter for 
the night or even a bite to eat.  I saw at a distance what seemed to be a comfortable building, and I resolved 
to go and try my luck there.  On arriving at the house the gentleman appeared at the gate and asked me what 
I wished.  I told him I was hunting work and wished to know if he knew where I could get employment.  At 
the same time I took out my letter of recommendation and handed it to him.  He read it, then said he thought 
he could direct me to a place where I could get a situation.  He then invited me into his house, saying that 
supper was about ready.  I accepted his kind offer; this was the first I had eaten since morning.  After supper 
I asked him where I could get a place to stay all night.  He said I could stay with him.  This kind treatment 
was thankfully received and it had a tendency to cheer up my drooping spirits.  

I arose early in the morning and set out for the furnace.  I was directed to travel along a line of pipes which 
conducted the salt water to the furnace, a distance of three miles.  On my arrival I soon made an engagement 
to work at $20.00 per month.  I told my employer that I had not any breakfast.  He replied that he had eaten 
breakfast but I should go to the cabin and get mine; that I would find meat, meal and cooking utensils.  On 
entering the cabin, to my great surprise I found nothing but a dirt floor all covered with ashes and straw.  
The cooking utensils consisted of a frying pan and a broken pot.  Hanging on the wall was a side of bacon, 
and in one corner of the room was a barrel of corn meal.  I set to work, cleaned the frying pan and fried 
some bacon.  I made some dough or batter and fried it in the grease that came out of the bacon.  I ate 
breakfast and went to work.  The bedding consisted of bunks fixed up against the wall.  Their beds were 
straw; the covering a few old dirty blankets.      

I began to repent of my foolish and unfortunate enterprise.  I remained in this most uncomfortable situation 
for about one month, often reflecting  on the pleasures of home and undergoing the greatest privations and 
hardships that I ever experienced.  The hands were all the roughest and the very dregs of creation.   

About this time I had a difficulty with one of the hands, one of my employers taking sides with him, the 
other with myself.  I then determined to leave them and return home.  I called on them for my wages, but 
they had no money and they could not nor would not pay me.  I think they gave me a dollar or so.  I had 
spent all the money my mother gave me, but the want of means did not stop me.  So I set out on my journey, 
depending on the hospitality of those I had stopped with on my outward trip.  In this I succeeded, as I was 
treated well on the road and reached home in ten or twelve days.  I was kindly received, with a firm 
conviction that home was the best place for foolish, inexperienced boys. 

This was the first experience of my life and it proved to be a complete failure.  It taught me a lesson never to 
be forgotten.  It was one of the errors of my life and I often looked upon it with profound regret, having 
caused a kind mother so many sorrowful tears and sleepless nights.  Thus ended my experience of 1812.  

The next year I remained at home and worked on the farm.  War had been declared against Great Britain; 
also, troops were called for against the Creek Indians.  This created in me a great desire to go into the Army.  
Under the excitement, I again became restless and could think of nothing else but the glory and fame I would 
acquire in the service of my country; but the opposition I met with from my father and mother prevented me 
from carrying our my most ardent wishes.  They insisted that I was too young, that it might be a protracted 
war and that I would have sufficient time to display my gallantry when I had arrived at the proper age.  

I had now entered into my seventeenth year.  Under this suspension of my wishes, weeks seemed months 
and months seemed years.  The wheels of time were not fast enough.  I longed to be a man.  

The eighth day of the ensuing August, I became eighteen years of age.  I looked upon it as the brightest 
epoch of my existence.  I was then untrammeled and could act at my pleasure with regard to serving my 
country.  In September there was a call for volunteers to go to Florida.   

I  immediately went to town and enrolled myself as a volunteer.  My oldest brother was going to school 
about thirty miles from home.  I wrote to him what I had done and invited him to come and go into service 
with me.  He came and entered with me.  A few days were spent in preparation.                                                     

All things being in readiness, we set out on the line of march.  During our preparation at home my father 
insisted that one of us should stay at home and take care of the farm and let him fill the place.  We both 
refused.  When the day arrived, on which we were to start, he went with us on one day's march.  Before 
leaving us, he still insisted that one of us should return home and fill his place.  We again refused and wished 
to know why he was so anxious to go in the army.  His reply was that he knew we were both young and 
inexperienced, that our courage might fail in the hour of need or danger, that if either of us was by his side 
he knew we would fight, but without his example he did not know the result.  I told him I was sorry that he 
thought he had raised a son that was less brave than himself, and that we were determined to fill our places.  
He then said: "well boys, I must bid you farewell, and I trust you both will behave like brave men; if so, I 
shall be proud to see you return, but if either of you are shot in the back never show your face to me again."  
Those words left a deep impression on me and will ever be remembered.  
 
We soon set out on our march again and arrived at  Fayetteville in five or six days.  There we encamped for 
two or three weeks, waiting for troops from other counties and making other preparations.  This being 
accomplished, we received marching orders with the intention of crossing the Tennessee River at Mussel 
Shoals.  The day before we reached the point, encamped about dark.  I went out to cut some wood with my 
hatchet and, unfortunately, made a mis-lick and struck it into my knee.  On examination, it was found that it 
would be impossible to do service for some time to come, if ever.  I, therefore, was sent home.  This was a 
source of deep mortification to me.  All my lively anticipations were again blasted.  I was doomed to dull 
monotony on the farm.  On my arrival at home I was unable to walk; my knee was badly swollen and gave 
me much pain, but, with good care, it began to mend in a couple of weeks.  I then began to have some hopes 
of reaching the army again.  These reflections gave me much pleasure, and cheered me up.  In about one 
week more I was able to mount my horse without help.  Hearing that one of our company had returned in 
consequence of sickness and had regained his health, I went to see him and made arrangements to return to 
the army.  This being done, we prepared for the long and perilous journey before us, most of which was 
through the Indian country -- a distance of from four to five hundred miles.

We set out again on this almost forlorn-hope expedition.  After three days travel we were in Indian Territory 
-- both unacquainted with Indians.  They looked like demons to us.  My traveling friend said he wished he 
had never started.  We crossed the Tennessee River in six or seven days after leaving home.  Near by the 
road forks and we took the left hand trail, which led to Mobile and Pensacola.  The weather was rainy -- 
waters high -- which impeded our progress very much.  There was no alternative but to swim the creek -- no 
bridges on the road.  This, together with the fear of Indians, gave my companion much trouble and he 
insisted that we should return home.  I told him that I would not; I would reach the army or die on the way.  
He had gone too far in the Indian country to think of returning alone; so he was forced, through necessity, to 
keep along with me.  Many difficulties lay in our way; rain continued.  Our progress was slow.  

On arriving at a creek that was very much swollen, we held council -- should we wait or swim it?  I 
concluded to swim, sitting on my horse.  I had a wallet of biscuit tied to my saddle which I took off, put it 
across my shoulder and rode in, and was soon safely landed on the other side.  I urged him to follow.  He 
refused, saying he would go up the creek to see if he could find a log on which to cross, where he could 
drive his horse over.  I started on but had not gone far before I met four or five soldiers who said they had 
served out their time and were on their way home. 

I traveled slowly but my companion did not overtake me.  I stopped and waited for him.  Still he did not 
come.  I at length concluded he had returned with the soldiers.  My opinions proved to be too true.  It was 
the last I ever saw of him.  But this was not the worst.  His leaving was no small matter, as he carried all the 
meat with him, leaving me nothing but bread to subsist upon.  

In this forlorn condition I continued to press on, as fast as circumstances would permit, suffering from 
hunger, wet, and cold, and laying every night on the cold, wet ground or in some cane-brake, or reedy  
swamp, where I could gather feed for my horse.  Sometimes I had the good luck to kill a wild turkey.  Then 
I would dress and roast it, and have fine living for a few days.  

I still proceeded onward, suffering much.  I arrived at a large stream one evening; it had been raining all day; 
and was wet and cold.  I saw an Indian hut on the opposite bank, which was unoccupied.  The River was 
very high, out of its banks, and from thirty to forty yards wide.  There was no mode to cross but by 
swimming it on horse.  He had taken me across so many streams that I felt little doubt.  I took off my 
overcoat and laid it on the saddle, and again mounted.  I had some distance to swim in back water, through 
which the horse carried me with great ease; but as soon as he reached the current he began to fail and soon 
sank.  I was washed off, one foot hanging in the stirrup.  I finally got loose from the horse.  I was 
encumbered with a heavy rifle in one hand, and had to swim with the other.  I exerted myself until I became 
exhausted and sank, as I thought to rise no more.  I shall never forget my thoughts while under water; that 
this was the last of me and that my friends would never know what had become of me. 

During this time I rested and made a desperate attempt to rise, and succeeded.  I came up just above a long 
birch limb which the high water had reached.  The current would bear the limb down stream a certain 
distance, then bread loose and fly back.  I caught it on its return and hung to it until rested sufficiently to 
make the shore on the same side that I went in.  My horse swam across with my saddle bags hanging by the 
strap to one of the stirrups, and as he raised to the bank the strap broke and the saddle bags seemed to lay 
on the edge of the water.  In the meantime, my overcoat had floated off.  I could see it down the stream, and 
was anxious to secure it, so I ran down to see if I could recover it.  Before I could reach the place it 
disappeared, and I never got it.  I came back and sat down on the bank of the river with feelings of mingled 
pleasure and pain.  I felt happy and thankful that I had escaped such a premature and untimely death.  I felt 
that my sufferings were almost insupportable.  

During these reflections, I heard a bustle and noise behind me.  I looked around and saw a dozen or more 
Indians squaws coming toward me.  They came nearer, and seemed to pity my condition.  I was trembling 
with cold and shaking as if I had the ague.  One of them said something to a little Negro boy that was with 
them.  He ran off and soon returned with a wooden dish filled with boiled potatoes.  I was hungry and cold, 
and did ample justice to their hospitality.  

Whilst we were on that bank there came up another squad of discharged soldiers.  I called across and asked 
them if they would do me a favor -- and take my saddle bags, which seemed almost in the water, and save 
them for me until I could cross in the morning, also tie up my horse and give him some cane to eat.  They 
said it should be done.  I then went with the squaws and stayed all night in their wigwam.  In the morning 
the Indians procured a canoe and sent me across, but before I reached the place the soldiers were gone.  All 
the money I had in the saddle-bags in a pocket of my pantaloons, with a string tied around it.  On my arrival 
at the cabin, I found my horse well cared for, all my wet clothing taken out and dried and, to my great 
satisfaction, found all my money.  

I was soon on my way again.  In three or four days I came to a very comfortable Indian house.  It being 
nearly dark, I concluded I would try to get lodgings for the night.  There was a young Indian man standing 
in the yard.  I spoke to him.  He replied in English: "How do you do".  I asked him if I could stay all night 
with him.  He answered: "yes, sir, alight".  My horse was taken and put in a stable and fed, and supper 
prepared for me.  After supper we sat around a good comfortable fire.  In our conversation I found him to 
be a well educated man and conversant on all subjects, and, to gather information of the roads I had to 
travel, he inquired where I was going.  I told him I belonged to Gen. Jackson's Army; had been crippled and 
left behind, and was then trying to join them at Pensacola.  He said the army had left Pensacola and moved 
on to the Mississippi that he had then in the house a newspaper which reported their departure from 
Pensacola, which he showed me.  I inquired of him my best route to reach them.  He said travel west until I 
struck the Natchez trail and that would lead nearer to where the army was.  I asked if there were any roads 
that would intersect that road.  He said, No, that I would have to steer my course due west and that I would 
strike it in about one hundred miles; that there would be no obstacles in my way, no streams to cross, of any 
note.  I told him that if the day was cloudy I could not tell whether I was going north, south, east or west.  
He said I could know the course by observing the timber; to bear in mind that the moss grew up higher and 
thicker on the north side of the trees, and to keep across that and it would lead me west.  

Being fully satisfied with his theory, I again set out and reached the Natchez trail in three days, without 
much difficulty -- with the exception of hunger, as I had had scarcely anything to eat on the trip. 

The Indian above alluded to was John Peachlyner, one of the chiefs of the Choctaw Nation.  He was 
educated in Nashville and knew many persons with whose names I was familiar.  

Having reached the old beaten track, my journey was more comfortable.  I had been reduced to one biscuit a 
day for several days; had traveled in the wilderness for about thirty days.  But all these troubles were at an 
end and it was the happiest hour of my existence.  

I had safely waded through all the difficulties, and met my friends and companions-in-arms.  My greatest 
desire was accomplished and I hoped to have a few days rest.  But this was not to be.  I had scarcely been in 
camp two hours before marching orders came to make a force march to New Orleans, that the enemy was 
hovering along the coast.  Everything was put in order and we were on our march before day.  

We arrived in New Orleans in three days and nights -- a distance of one hundred and seventy-five miles.  We 
encamped there three days, making preparations to meet events as they might turn up.  On the evening of the 
23rd of December an express came that the English had landed and were coming up the levee to take the 
city.  Our order was to be in our saddles in five minutes. It was all bustle and confusion; most of the horses 
were loose on the plains and could not be had on such short notice but enough were gotten up to form a 
regiment of eight hundred.  

We were soon in line, with order to march.  We went at about half speed, and called a halt in the city to 
supply ourselves with ammunition.  During the halt, there was a great bustle in the city.  Bells were ringing, 
colors of flags flying and martial music in every direction, all of which was well calculated to inspire the 
soldiers with courage.  The citizens were busily engaged in treating the soldiers along the lines.  Our halt 
was but short; we were soon under way to meet the enemy.  After a march of seven or eight miles, we saw 
their encampment.  This was about dark.  The order for battle was given; preparations for an attack were 
made. 


The mounted rifle-men soon forced the enemy's back line into the river, where they again formed on the 
levee.  After several charges and retreats, their column gave way and we occupied the battle ground during 
the night.  But I must be brief and leave history to explain.  It will answer my purpose to say that I was in 
every battle during the siege. On the 23rd of December I was slightly wounded on the wrist.  Did not feel 
the wound when made but discovered it by the blood filling the gun-lock, when in the act of priming in the 
dark.  About the same time, my Captain, Beverly Williams, was struck, causing the loss of his eyesight.
  
During the battles of the 23rd and 28th, New Year's day, and the 8th of January, I was actively engaged...

About the 12th of January, the British evacuated their posts.  So ended the war.  We were all soon 
encamped above New Orleans and remained there until the 12th of March.     

Peace being established, preparations were made for returning home and disbanding the army. Dreading the 
long march, I applied to our Colonel for a furlough for myself and two others.  He said that he had refused 
furloughs on the ground that there would be so many that would want to go.  It would be impossible to get 
sustenance through the Indian Territory, so it became necessary, for the welfare of the soldiers, that there 
should be some system to provide for their return.  I told him that we had means to provide for ourselves, 
and that it would be a very great accommodation to us.  He being a kindhearted man and a friend of mine, 
gave me the furloughs required but said he would not give another.  He made them out and handed them to 
me, and we were soon on the road.  

We arrived at home on April 8th, 1815.  I was taken sick on my route, a couple of days before I reached 
home, and was confined to my bed on the 10th, and was not able to be out of the house until the latter part 
of August.  I spent the balance of the year visiting and feasting with my friends.  

I was married March 14, 1816, to Sarah Rogan Carlin.  I lived on my father's farm that year and raised a 
crop.  In 1817 I bought a farm of my own and farmed it one year.  Finding it rather slow process in money-
making, I determined to build a keel-boat and go into trade in the rivers.  I rented my farm and in the winter 
of 1817 I went to a boat-builder, got patterns and commenced getting out timbers.  In the month of 
February I went to see a friend living on the Cumberland River, to purchase timber enough to build a boat.  
He told me he would not sell me the timber but would give me enough for that purpose.  I thanked him for 
his generosity.  

I returned home, gathered up the necessary tools and patterns, and set out on foot -- a distance fifteen miles 
-- carrying a broad and narrow axe, square and patterns.  On my arrival I selected a white oak, three and a 
half feet in diameter, chopped it down and hewed it square so that it would be sawed into planks, by means 
of a whip-saw.  I then hired two Negroes who were accustomed to that kind of work.  

We soon had a stock pitted.  They commenced sawing and I prepared another stock.  The work went on 
rapidly and in a few days we had all the timbers in the boat yard.  This being done, I wrote to the boat-
builder or ship carpenter who had agreed, when I had all the timber out, to come and fit the timber and place 
on stock, and show me how to plank and finish the boat.  On his arrival he pronounced the timber first rate.  
He soon had the keel set on blocks and the model of the boat complete.  He then put on two streaks of 
planks, showed myself and hands how to plank and calk the boat, and left for home.  We soon got the 
proper idea and practice.  Our work progressed rapidly, and by the first of June the boat was done.  

This consumed all my surplus means.  I owned the boat but had nothing to load it with.  I knew of several 
large distilleries in Sumner County, not far from where I built the boat.  I concluded to go and see them, and 
buy a load of whiskey on credit.  I found no difficulty in consummating a 
contract on six months' credit.  I then hired my hands and in a few days my boat was loaded.  

All things being in readiness, we set out for St. Louis on the 18th of June, 1818.  This was my first 
adventure on a trading expedition.  Every one of us were what was then called "green horns" by boat men.  
None of us had ever been on a trip on a boat, but, as our course was down stream, we found little difficulty 
in keeping with the current.

In about ten days we arrived at Smithland, at the mouth of the Cumberland.  There we stopped to buy 
setting poles and rope for cordelle to ascend the Mississippi.  We again set out on the broad waters of the 
Ohio.  We glided down that stream to its junction with the Mississippi.  We landed and made preparations 
for ascending that rapid and turbid stream.  We started around the point and met the current.
None of us had ever pushed a boat with a  pole, and there was no system.  We made desperate attempts but 
to no affect, for we could not move her against the current.  We all became exhausted and the boat began to 
fall back; the water was not more than three feet on the bar.  I ordered all hands to jump out and hold the 
boat, and keep her from floating below the point.  I then put some hands to the bow line.  They pulled and 
the others shoved, and by that means we passed over the bar. 

We were five days getting to Tywapity Bottoms, a distance of twenty-five miles.  I there hired two old boat 
hands, who said it would be impossible to take the boat to St. Louis without rigging a mast to cordelle by, 
so all hands went to work to put it up.  As soon as the work was done, we started out with much better 
success.  We made an average of fifteen miles a day.  When we arrived at St. Perivare we stopped a few 
days, tried to sell and went out to the Potosi lead mines.  We did not meet with any success. 

On my return I again started for St. Louis and arrived there in four or five days, but found whiskey a dull 
sale.  There I met a gentleman from Kentucky, with a boat-load of whiskey.  He told me he had not found a 
market for much of his, but said he had understood that at the Fort at Prairie Du Chien we could find sale 
for all we had, at very high prices; that it was bought by the Indian traders at that place.  Upon consultation, 
we agreed to put both our loads in one boat, join our forces and go to the Fort.  But we were told that the 
trip would be impracticable, owing to the fact that there were two rapids on the Mississippi which would be 
impossible to cross.  This information stopped the expedition.  I rented the ferry at St. Louis and moved my 
boat on the Illinois side.  I found better sale for my whiskey, as much of it was bought for the interior of the 
state.  I gave $180.00 per month rent for the ferry, and found it very profitable.  My prospects began to 
brighten.  There was great emigration to Missouri from Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.  I employed 
three hands at all they could do at high rates.  I, also, bought all beef hides from the butchers and two 
thousand deer skins from a Rocky Mountain trader, partly loaded my boat and sent her back to Tennessee.  I 
stayed and attended to the ferry and the sale of liquor. 

In the fall I gave up the ferry and returned home, after having made a prosperous trip, clearing about 
$1500.00 in six months.  Thus ended my first enterprise in 1818.

I bought three Negroes and went on my farm in 1819.  I raised a large crop of tobacco that year.  After it 
was all secure in the barn, I again set out on horseback to visit the Missouri lead mines, to see if I could 
make a purchase of lead to my advantage or find anything else to invest in.  I was pretty well equipped, 
being dressed much after the fashion of a brainless fop, with my ruffles protruding out of my bosom from 
four to six inches, well starched and crimped in the fantastic style.  

I stopped at a tavern at night, and ordered my horse put up and well fed.  I wanted a room by myself, with a 
fireplace in the same, and wished a fire made in the morning to get up by.  The old gray-headed landlord said 
I should be accommodated according to my wishes.  I was ushered into my room, which had a warm fire.  
Supper was soon ready and all things bid fair for a good night's rest.  Travelers began to come in but there 
seemed to be ample provision for all.  They all mingled together in a large sitting room.  They all mingled 
together in a large sitting room.  They all got up early in the morning.  I heard them settling their bills --$.75 
for man and horse, $1.00 for man and span of horses.  These charges seemed to me to be reasonable.  The 
old landlord had a fire made in my room.  I got up, told him I wished breakfast before I started and that I 
should like to have fried chicken, if convenient.  He said, "all right, sir, you shall have it according to order".  
After I had eaten I called for my horse, which was brought out and saddled.  I called for my bill.  The old 
gentleman made some preliminary remarks by saying that when gentlemen put up with him -- that cared 
more for comfort than money -- he endeavored to make it as comfortable as possible, and charged them 
accordingly.  "Your bill, sir, is two dollars and a half."  The money was handed him, as the Frenchman would 
say, with much "sang froid".  Though it lightened my purse, it reached my vanity and before I was fairly out 
of sight I might have been seen shoving my ruffles to one side in to my bosom.  I performed my journey 
without ever having another terrible bill to pay, and the old man taught me a lesson -- that vanity was an 
unprofitable stock to deal in.  

I returned home late in the fall, without accomplishing anything.  During the winter the farmers held a 
meeting to appoint a suitable man to freight their tobacco to New Orleans and sell it for them.  The situation 
was given to me.  I willingly accepted their offer, which was to give me $1.00 per one hundred pounds for 
freighting and selling -- they paying all other charges.  I bought two boats of sufficient capacity to carry sixty 
hogsheads, each.  I set out for New Orleans some time in March, and was about thirty-five days in reaching 
there.  I soon sold out and got 25% per hundred more than any person from our section of the country.  This 
advantage was gained by there being a ship almost loaded and my two loads would complete the cargo.  I 
held it 25 cents higher than the market proved to be, and in order to get ready to put to sea they paid me my 
price. 

I returned home, I believe, in the monthly of July, 1820.  On my return I bought a stock of goods, made 
preparations to move to Arkansas in the fall and bought a boat and set out with my family and goods about 
the first of December.  

I arrived at Cape Girardeau on the 26th of December and hired teams to haul my goods to a little village 
called Currenton, on the Current River.  On my arrival I soon had my goods open but found business dull.  I 
was disappointed in my expectations, for the country was sparsely settled and no enterprise among the 
people whatever.  There were no markets; if there had been, there was but little to sell.  I sold my goods on 
a credit, which I ought not to have done. 

In the months of July and August my family all took sick and my father, hearing of our unpleasant situation, 
came and moved my family back to Tennessee.  I remained there to settle up my business, and dispose of the 
balance of my goods.  To expedite or increase my sales, I advertised that I would sell goods and take beef, 
cattle, horses and hogs in payment.  This notice increased my business.  I commenced building boats to take 
my stock to New Orleans.  I had three completed in December and soon had them loaded, and on the way to 
the lower country.  I placed them in charge of my clerk, with instructions to lay out all the proceeds in dry 
goods and groceries.  I also boxed up the remnants of my unsold goods and put them on the boat to be 
taken back to Tennessee.  Thus ended my Arkansas expedition, with a loss of several thousand dollars.  

This was in the years 1820 and 1821.  All things being closed, I bought a horse and left for Tennessee.  On 
my arrival I expected to hear from my clerk who had the boats in charge.  Three or four months passed and 
no tidings from him.  I began to think that all was lost, but I was not kept in this unpleasant suspense much 
longer, for, in a few days, he arrived with the gratifying news that the had sold out the stock at good and 
remunerative prices, that he had laid our the proceeds as directed, and the goods were landed safely in a 
warehouse in Cairo, on the Cumberland River.  

The next object was to look up a place to commence business.  I went to Hartsville, Sumner County, 
Tennessee, rented a room or a store and soon had the goods open.  Business was good and my prospects 
brightened.  I sold a large amount of goods at a fine profit.  I continued the business, with the same results. 
In the spring of 1823 I formed a co-partnership with my clerk, Francis Duffy.  Our businesss still increased.  
We bought tobacco and shipped to New Orleans, and did well.  In the winter of 1824 we bought tobacco 
again and cleared about $2,000.00 on the purchase.  This, with the profit on our goods, gave us means to 
extend our business largely.

In the fall of 1825 we received a letter from our commission merchant in New Orleans, stating to us that 
they wished us to purchase $40,000.00 worth of tobacco on joint account and draw on them at ninety days 
for $20,000, at the same time limiting us not to exceed $4.00 per hundred.  We immediately wrote them that 
we would accept their proposition.  In a short time we received another letter from them, stating 
that we should hurry and purchase as fast as possible, as they had no doubt tobacco would maintain last 
year's price, if not exceed it.  This seemed somewhat discretionary with us as to what prices to pay for 
tobacco, as tobacco had ranged from six to ten dollars last year.  We being anxious to get all we could, 
appointed agents to assist us in the purchase in different counties, and authorizing that they might give $5.00 
per hundred.  In less than ten days we had about seven hundred thousand pounds of tobacco on hand, but no 
sooner had we closed our purchase than we received another letter from them, stating that if we had not 
purchased not to do it, for tobacco had declined in price in Europe and that if we purchased we would lose 
money.  This unfavorable news, coupled with having transcended their limits, caused us to see where we 
stood with the whole amount on hand.  We had drawn on them for $5,000.00 at ninety days and discounted 
the draft in the bank at Nashville.  Tobacco began to pour in upon us.  Our money began to run short.  We 
began to pay only a part and give our notes for the balance.  Pressed upon all sides, it became necessary for 
me to take a boat at Nashville and go as speedily as possible to New Orleans, and make some arrangements 
for money to send forward for our pressing necessities and stay there and sell as fast as the tobacco arrived. 

I left home in February, 1826.  On my arrival I went to see those commission merchants who had led us to 
this unfortunate speculation.  I told them they must lend me some assistance.  Their reply was that they 
could not assist me to a dollar.  This caused some unpleasant feelings with me.  I tried to make other 
arrangements to get money, but without the least success.  Every description of produce had fallen to the 
lowest possible point.  Tobacco was selling from $2.00 to $5.00 per hundred pounds and still on the decline.  
Cotton was selling from eight to eight and a half cents per pound.  A great revolution seemed evident.  My 
tobacco began to arrive slowly, prices still receding.  I still held that I would not sell at those ruinous prices.  
The draft we had drawn on our commission house was about maturing and there were no good feelings 
between the commission merchant, who had accepted our draft, and myself.  These things all tended to make 
me uncomfortable.  I finally received notice from them that my draft would fall due on a certain day.  This 
gave me additional trouble.  Little of my tobacco had arrived; not enough to half meet the draft.  I had 
become acquainted with a wholesale merchant from Philadelphia, who had invited me to spend my leisure 
hours at his store as we had become quite intimate.  After I received the notice I called at his store, looking, 
no doubt, very gloomy.  He inquired if I was unwell.  I told him that I was not.  He said I did no look as 
lively as common.  I replied that there was nothing the matter with me save the want of money.  He said if 
that was all, he had plenty and that I need not look so sad.  There were quite a number in the store at the 
time.  He, Mr. Charles S. Olden, afterwards Governor of New Jersey, beckoned me to his counting room. 
He asked me if I was jesting about needing money, and I told him that I had spoken in a joke but it was, 
nevertheless, true.  He told me that he had money in the bank that was doing him no good, that it would 
afford him a pleasure to accommodate me.  I thanked him and said I would try and do without borrowing 
until I would make sale of my tobacco.  He said there was no necessity for that and insisted upon knowing 
what amount I needed.  I told him $5,000.00.  I had drawn upon a house and the draft was about due.  He 
turned to his check book, drew a check for the amount and handed it to me.  I looked at it to see if it was all 
right, but still thought he was playing a joke on me, as we had been quite familiar; but thinking he 
should not get the start of me, I handed the check back to him, saying: "My friend, I have always heard it 
said -- one good turn deserves another.  Will you be so kind as to have it cashed?"  "Certainly, sir," was his 
reply.  He called one of his clerks and told him to go to the bank and bring the money.  The money was soon 
handed over to me.  Such an act of magnanimous confidence I had never met with before, nor have I since.  
The many acts of disinterested kindness and attention that I received from him will ever be remembered with 
gratitude.  

My tobacco was arriving and the price was still receding.  It now became impossible to sell at more than 8-
3/4, 2-3/4 and 3-3/4 for the best quality.  I sold two hundred and sixteen hogsheads at this ruinous price.  To 
pay freight and to refund the money, I borrowed of my friend, C.S. Olden.  I noticed from the prices current 
in Philadelphia that tobacco was bringing from $2.50 to $5.00.  I shipped one hundred hogsheads to that 
market.  Dr. Allen Hile I sent on as agent.  I was to follow with one hundred and fifty hogsheads more as 
soon as all my tobacco arrived from the upper country, which was expected in ten or fifteen days.  I was, 
therefore, delayed two months longer than I expected.  I soon had it shipped to Philadelphia.  

Having nothing more to look after, I engaged my passage on the ship "Amelia", bound for New York.  
Before leaving my friend, C.S. Olden, he inquired into the magnitude of my wardrobe.  I told him I had 
sufficient to take me around.  He stated that I might be a long time on the route and he insisted that I should 
take a couple dozen shirts, which he brought down to the ship to me.  He said that when I finished with 
them I could leave them at his store in Philadelphia.  I accepted for fear of offending him.  

We left New Orleans on the 12th of June and landed at Sandy Hook on the 1st day of July.  We were 
quarantined three days. I gave bonds not to enter the city.  We were landed on Staten Island and took 
passage for Philadelphia, and arrived there the 2nd day of July.  My agent, Dr. Hile, had sold the one 
hundred hogsheads of tobacco at $2.50, and some few choice hogsheads at from $5.00 to $6.00 per 
hundred.  The other one hundred and fifty I sold at similar prices.  I here received letters from my partner 
that if I did not remit money soon all would be lost.  There were many judgements against us.  There would 
still be heavy accounts that we could not provide for, so I concluded, as a gambler would say, to risk all on a 
single turn of the wheel, that I would lay out every dollar in my possession in merchandise, so we might be 
able to pay our debts, but to pay the money we could not.  Consequently, I made the purchase and quite a 
large amount on credit.  I reserved only enough money for freight and charges.  I had the goods loaded on 
wagons for Pittsburgh.  Dr. Hile and myself left by stage for the same place.  

Arriving there, I took a boat for home, leaving my friend to pay freights and to attend to shipping the goods 
to Louisville, where they were to remain till further orders form me.  On my arrival at home I found 
everything in a most confused condition.  Creditors flocked in from all quarters for their pay, which had been 
so long delayed.  I submitted this proposition to them -- that they should select three good business men; we 
would render a schedule of the amount due us by note or book account, together with all the invoice goods 
that we had coming; that if such committee should report that we had sufficient means to pay our debts by 
giving us one year's time, they should do so, but, otherwise, if it was found that our assets were insufficient, 
then they should take the notes, accounts and goods and divide the sum, according to ratio, and give up our 
paper.  This proposition seemed to meet with favor.  It in some degree restored confidence, and the 
excitement seemed to die away.  They all promised to give the time required without going into the 
examination, so the matter rested for a time.  But there was a judgement against us for about $3,000.00, 
which had to be met in a short time.  I proposed to go to Nashville and make arrangements to raise that 
amount.  My partner said I could not raise a dollar, but, disregarding his opinions, I went.  I met with a 
wholesale merchant from whom I had been in the habit of buying goods.  I told him my situation and that I 
had a large stock of selected goods on the way from Philadelphia, and wished to sell him some of them to 
raise money which we were compelled to have.  He asked my terms and I told him he would have $3,000.00 
worth at 10% on original cost.  He said he would take the goods at that rate and gave me $500.00, which I 
was compelled to have.  I was to write him a note on the arrival of the goods, and wrote to Dr. Hile to send 
them as soon as possible.  When they arrived I wrote to the merchant, Matthew Wheaton, of Nashville, to 
come and make his selections. In a few days he was on hand; bought $2,700.00 worth, and paid for them.  
This in turn made things a little easier.  We were able to pay off the judgements against us; we sold goods 
rapidly, which gave us quite a relief as we paid many of our goods for debts.            

Things took an upward turn, but I was not satisfied with the manner in which business was conducted during 
my absence of the last seven months.  I proposed a dissolution of our co-partnership which was done, but 
we were jointly bound for all of our old debts.  We both continued to pay them as fast as we could, each 
taking receipts for the amount paid by him.  

During the fall of 1826 and 1827 I again bought a boat load of tobacco of my customers, yet many of our 
old debts remained unpaid.  In the spring of 1827 our creditors became more urgent for their pay, and, 
forgetting their former agreement with us to wait one year, began to sue us again.  Finding I had no other 
alternative to save myself from ruin, I wrote a letter to Messrs. Newkirk & Olden of Philadelphia, to whom 
we owed $2800.00 for goods purchased of them, that if they did no come or send their claim against us, 
they would lose money by us and we could not help it; if they would come, I would secure them.  In two or 
three weeks their agent arrived with a letter to me, to secure them in any way I might their best for our 
mutual interest.  I closed the store and took an invoice of the goods.  This caused many conjectures.  Not 
even my old partner knew what I was doing.  Some thought that the stranger had bought me out.  We kept 
our own secrets.  In a few days we finished our labors.  A deed of trust was made out and signed, all the 
goods, books, etc., turned over to Newkirk & Olden.  They appointed me their agent to sell the goods, it 
was, also, agreed that I might pay off some of my old debts with goods, provided such payment did not 
interfere with their interests.  Thus ended the speculation of 1825.

I had sent a boat-load of tobacco to New Orleans, but had no returns from it when this deed of trust was 
given.  In justification of what I had done and the causes which led to it, will be seen the following circular: 

To the Public

The house of Phelps and Duffy, of Hartville, of which I was a partner, purchased in 1825 a large quantity of 
cotton and tobacco, by which transaction we lost upwards of $18,000.00. IN consequence of this immense 
loss, we have not been able to meet many of our engagements with that punctuality which had previously 
marked our course in business, and many of our creditors have been necessarily compelled to wait longer for 
their money than they expected to have done when we made our purchase.  By the most indefatigable 
exertions, we have succeeded at length in paying all but a comparatively small part of our debts.  Yet this 
part, small as it is, must be paid.  Our creditors expect it, and we make no other calculation.  Yet, with 
regret, I inform them that they will be necessarily obliged to wait still longer.  We found it necessary last 
year to purchase a considerable quantity of goods in Philadelphia on credit, for the purpose of paying our 
debts here and had no doubt at that time that we should be able to purchase a sufficient quantity of Products 
to pay for them.  In this we have been disappointed.  The people to whom we paid a high price for produce 
and who (if any people) should have felt themselves under obligations to us, were, with few exceptions, the 
first, after receiving their money, to turn their backs upon us and, in almost every instance, preferred selling 
to anybody else.  Had our conduct at any time been such as to justify them in their course toward us or had 
we at any time given them cause to lose confidence in us, we would have submitted to our fate without 
murmur, but no such cause can be shown.  I am sensible that I have been censured by some for with-holding 
the proceeds of our tobacco and laying it out in goods.  To any reasonable man who had an idea of our 
situation, this matter would need no explanation.  Yet there are some people in every community who, either 
from ignorance of design, can never be convinced of anything contrary to their interest or their feelings. To 
such, I have only to say I despise them and their opinions, and inform them I write not for them.  It is to 
people of a different character I address myself, and with them I hope to be able to justify the course I have 
pursued throughout the whole transaction, which has involved me in my unfortunate situation. 

If the proceeds of our tobacco had been paid over to the people, one-half of our debts would have remained 
unpaid and, after selling every particle of property we possessed on earth, a large amount of our debts would 
have remained unpaid, which probably would never have been able to pay, and our creditors must have lost 
it.  The only course then that I could pursue with any probability of success, was the one I did pursue and I 
can with confidence assert that had any other course been taken after we made the purchase of produce, we 
would have been effectually ruined and our creditors would have sustained great loss by us.  As matters now 
stand, we will eventually pay every cent we owe.  We have the means; we will do it but we must have time 
in which to do it.  Mr. Duffy, my former partner, is equally bound with myself, and, from our united 
exertions, I apprehend but little difficulty in the final settlement of our business.  

All debts that I have contracted since the dissolution of  partnership between Mr. Duffy and myself, will be 
met as punctually as the nature of our position will possibly permit.  The principal debt we owed in 
Philadelphia has recently been sent on for payment, and, having no money to pay it, I secured a deed of trust 
on my remaining stock of goods, books, etc., together with all the property I possess -- not excepting the 
bed on which I sleep.  This result has not been anticipated by me nor has any one so great a cause to regret it 
as myself.  None, I am sure, could regret it more.  Those who know me, I am confident, will be satisfied that 
I have no disposition to evade the payment of any debt I owe.  Those who are willing to be persuaded of this 
fact have proofs before them; those who are disposed to think differently, I must leave to the enjoyment of 
their opinions.  To my friends, I return my grateful acknowledgement and assure them that they will be 
remembered with the sentiments of the warmest regard.  

John Phelps
Hartsville, May 28, 1827


This being done, I had no available means left, save the boat-load of tobacco which I sent to New Orleans.  I 
soon received the proceeds, which amounted to some $4,000.00.  I heard of the Galena lead mine; That 
large fortunes had been made, sometimes in a week, and that there was a great opening for selling goods.  I 
suggested my plan to my friend Dr. Hile, that the enterprise would be worth trying.  He agreed to go with 
me.  We set about making preparations for the journey. 

We were ready to start on the trip by the 12th of June.  I invited many of my old friends to take dinner with 
me on that day.  I announced to my friends my intention of leaving them for the far off West, to better my 
condition.  Everything was in a state of readiness; we saddled our horses and started.  Four of five of my 
guest s accompanied me for seventeen miles, and stayed with me that night.  In the morning I bade them all 
the last farewell; I have never seen them since.  I left the business in the hands of my clerk and family.  

I arrived in St. Louis on July 1st, 1827.  I there purchased a stock of goods for the Galena lead mine, which 
was then in Indian territory, with the exception of fifteen miles square which had been purchased by the 
Government for mining purposes.  It was cut off from all the civilized world and surrounded by the Indian 
tribes.  I shipped my goods on board a steamboat bound for Galena.  I had hardly gotten them aboard when 
Gov. Cass arrived from Prairie Du Chien, bringing the sad news that the Indians had broken out and were 
killing all the miners.  The boat was pressed into the services of the Government to take up the troops.  My 
goods were put off the boat on the wharf and the troops marched on.  I was again disappointed in all my 
anticipation and bright prospects of building up and mending my broken fortune.  My only chance then was 
to get the privilege from the commanding officer to let me ship my goods and go up with the troops.  Major 
Riley had command.  I approached him by saying: "Major, these goods which are on the wharf are mine.  
Would it be possible for me to get them back and go up with you?  If it is soldiers you want, I can make as 
good a one as you have, and I will charge nothing for my services, and bear my own expenses."  His reply 
was: "My good sir, your goods shall be put back," at the same time giving an order to place them on board 
again.

In five hours we were on our way.  Everything went on smoothly will we arrived at the Lower Rapids of the 
Mississippi.  It was there we found we could not get the boat over.  This being the case, the boat, evidently, 
would have to return to St. Louis and take my goods back, and the troops march by land.  But, fortunately 
for me, there was a keel boat at the foot of the rapids, which was to be towed up to Galena by the 
steamboat.  The owner was on board with us.  My only alternative was to charter the keel boat.  I did so.  
There were, also, a number of adventurers on board of the steamer, going to the lead mines, who agreed that 
if I would take them and their outfit on board they would assist me in pushing the boat to Galena and take 
our chances among the Indians.  This being agreed to, we were soon well underway -- well armed and 
equipped with everything necessary for our comfort on the journey. 

We then organized our little band and continued on our way, and arrived at Galena on the 27th day of July, 
1827, without molestations from the Indians, a guard having been placed out every night.  On our arrival, we 
found Everything in great confusion, and most of the miners gone to the settlement for safety. The balance 
were principally fortified and business was completely paralyzed, as they expected an attack from the 
Indians.  I spent two or three days at Galena, but became tired of inactivity. I hired a horse and went our to 
what was called the New Diggins -- about ten or twelve miles away -- where I found the miners still at work 
on their claims.  They all gave me great encouragement to build a house and bring my goods out.  I accepted 
their invitation, went to work and soon had a house ready.  My goods were brought out and placed on the 
shelves, and I commenced selling on credit.  I did a lively business, as I was told that all miners could and 
would pay.  I had not been open but a few days when all was again thrown into confusion by a report of a 
friendly squaw, who said she had seen the hostile Indians and they would attack us soon.  I took my horse 
and went to the Diggins and warned the miners of their danger.  I invited them all the meet at my store the 
next day and organize for defense.  At the meeting it was agreed that we should organize a company to 
assist Gen. Whitesides, who was encamped a few miles off guarding the settlements.  There sere about one 
hundred volunteers, which made a full company.  I was elected Captain, and in two or three days all were 
ready and on our march. 

On our arrival at Gen. Whiteside's camp, to our gratification, we found a council had been held and peace 
established.  Thus ended the Indian War that created so much excitement and nearly cleared the country of 
its mining population.  Now that the danger was over, the miners returned and resumed their former 
occupations.  

Business of every description became lively;  The smoke of the furnaces was seen curling up in almost every 
direction.  Each day we could hear of some new discovery.  Miners poured in from all quarters.  They began 
prospecting on Indian territory and finding mew leads, until they had covered a territory one hundred miles 
square.  The principal discoveries on Indian ground were Gratiot Grove, Mineral Point, Blue Mounds, 
Dodgeville, Plattville, Snake Hollow, Bee Town, Cassville, Dubuque, and many other points of less note.  

This opened before me a large field in which to operate.  It seemed to me there was a bright prospect before 
me.  I came to the conclusion to start smelting, in connection with my store.  Smelters were each allowed six 
hundred and forty acres of land for smelting purposes, and I located at White Oak Springs, fourteen miles 
north of Galena.  I there built a store house and furnace, and soon had the whole thing in operation.  No 
sooner had I accomplished this that I saw, or thought I saw, a fine opening where Cassville now stands, 
eighty miles above Galena, on the Mississippi.  I went up there and made another smelting survey, sent up 
hands, built a furnace and store house, and bought a stock of good for that place.  Many miners had located 
there and the prospects seemed good, both in selling goods and in making lead.  But, as we extended our 
operations on Indian territory, there were still some doubts as to whether it would bring on a renewal of 
hostilities.  These doubts hung heavy on the most timid portion of the adventurers.  I will here relate a little 
circumstance what occurred, which created no little merriment for the citizens of the village and a great deal 
of confusion and trouble to the miners and their families, about nine miles back at what was called the Bee 
Town Diggins.  The fact of the circumstance were these. 

I had up a carpenter from the White Oak Springs, to do some work on my store house.  He was a very timid 
man and had a great fear of Indians, so much so that it seemed to haunt his mid-night dreams and occupy his 
daily thoughts and conversation.  Some mischievous fellow, seeing he was laboring under great mental 
excitement for his own safety, got up a plan to have his courage tested.  They circulated a report, which they 
said they had just received, that the Indians were to make an attack on the village that night.  All seemed 
deeply concerned for their own safety and that of the women and children.  A meeting was called, a 
company organized and officers elected.  They appointed Mr. Graham sergeant, whose duty it was to place 
out the guards, and relieve them.  About dark the guard was placed out, along the high bluff which almost 
surrounds the town.  While the  sergeant was stationing the guard, a number of citizens, who were engaged 
in the fun, loaded their guns with powder and painted themselves like Indian warriors.  They passed through 
the lines and took position on the bluff, out of sight.  At the end of two hours the sergeant came to relieve 
the guard.  The attack was made, and they came down the bluff yelling and firing, after the manner of 
Indians in battle.  They cut off the sergeant's retreat from the town and he had no other alternative but to 
take the bluff and get into the road that lead to Bee Town.  He ran nine miles, carrying the sad news that the 
Indians had attacked Cassville and massacred every soul but himself, and he had made a most miraculous 
escape by climbing a bluff that no human feet had ever climbed before.  This news threw all Bee Town in the 
wildest consternation.  Teams were gotten and whole families retreated to other settlements for safety.  
After the families were gone, a number of miners volunteered to go to Cassville to ascertain the extent of the 
slaughter, but what was their surprise when they got there and found all the inhabitants cooly moving about 
and attending to their business.  Thus ended the farce at Graham's expense and the great annoyance and 
trouble to the settlers of Bee Town. 

But to return to my narrative, I had gotten the two stores and furnaces in operation.  Business was good; 
lead worth $40.00 per thousand, mineral worth $17.00 per thousand -- giving a good profit to the smelters.  
I also sold a large amount of goods, mostly on credit, but, if I could judge anything from the profit on my 
goods and lead, it bore me out in the belief that a prosperous future lay before me. 

This was in the fall of 1827, I wrote to my family, who were in Tennessee, to close up their business and 
come to me.  They arrived in Galena on the 17th of March, 1828.  During this year I was busily engaged in 
smelting; bought a large amount of mineral at $17.00.  In the fall lead began to decline in price and kept 
sinking until it reached bottom -- $15.00 per thousand.  This completely ruined me.  Previous to this, I had 
opened the first store in Mineral Point that was established there.  I had many good friends in the lead mines, 
who sympathized with me in my losses, a number of whom made me this proposition; that if I would take 
charge of fifty men, which they would furnish, and go into the Rocky mountains or on the head waters of the 
Gulf of California, to trap and trade with the Indians, they would bear all expense and give me one fourth of 
all the profits that might be made by the expedition; that I should remain in the mountains for the term of 
three years in command.  I accepted the proposal.  The article was drawn up and signed by all parties.  We 
were to leave as early in the fall as possible, so as to be able to reach Santa Fe and, if necessary, winter 
there.  The outfit was to be made in St. Louis, where the company had a large amount of lead in store.  My 
family was to be sent back to their friends in Tennessee.  They were placed on a boat at Galena.  I remained 
at the lead mines a week or so after they left.  When ready, I started on horseback, and took my course to 
strike Ogle Ferry, then kept by a half-breed Indian.  

I must have struck the prairie, not far from where Freeport now stands; came down the prairie about one 
and one-half miles east of where Polo now stands, and struck the river at the trail which leads to the crossing 
of the river at the ferry.  This was the first sight of the beautiful valley of Rock River, which embraced a 
good portion of what is now Ogle County.  I met my family near Alton, but I was still doomed to further 
disappointments.  On our arrival in St. Louis, I found that the house with which the lead was stored had 
failed and all the lead in his possession was attached as his property, and could not be had.  Thus ended the 
Rocky Mountain expedition. 

"Misfortunes seldom come singly."  I was still doomed to drink out of the bitter cup of adversity.  I was 
there among strangers -- without money or means of any description, I, fortunately, met with Thomas Carlin 
(a cousin of my wife), who has since become Governor of the State of Illinois.  I formed his acquaintance in 
the year 1818.  I told him my misfortunes.  He said that if I wished to go on a farm he had a fine one about 
five miles below Alton, in the American Bottoms.  I might go there and live on it as long as I wished, 
without paying rent.  I accepted his kind offer and stayed there one year, and did well.

During the winter of 1830 I received a letter from my old friend, Dr. Hile, who had settled at Beardstown, 
on the Illinois River, for the practice of medicine.  I had loaned him a considerable sum of money, which he 
had never been able to pay.  He stated he had a good practice and that if I would move to that place he 
would pay me three or four hundred a year, and live himself.  I accepted the invitation and moved there in 
the spring of 1831.  Was received kindly by the Doctor, but he was still unable to give me assistance; so we 
were once more in a disagreeable position.  Misfortune, like some malignant fever, will stick to the patient 
while there are any vitals to prey upon. 

I settled on a piece of the public land and on the banks of the Illinois River, in Schuyler County, built a cabin 
and commenced opening a farm.  We had been there but a short time when the Black Hawk War broke out.  
Troops marched from the southern part of Illinois to Beardstown.  I went down to meet the troops.   Met 
Governor Reynolds, an old acquaintance of mine, who was with the troops.  He seemed pleased to see me 
and asked if I was going with them.  I told him I was not aware of his raising troops in our country.  He said 
he had ordered one company to be raised, and if I would go he would order another one.  I finally agreed to 
go with him.  He then asked if I would be the bearer of a dispatch to Col. Sellars of Rushville.  I answered 
that I would.  He then wrote a dispatch and a letter of introduction to the Colonel, stating to him that he 
wished me to command the Second Company.  I delivered them, and the Colonel said that it was the 
Governor's wish that I should have command of the Second Company.  He said he did not know how that 
would be, as the men doubtless had the right to select their own officers but it would certainly be acceptable 
to me; he added, that as I was a stranger I could not expect it.  I told him that was so,  but, In further 
conversation, he wished to know if I would accept second in command.  My answer was "yes".  The day 
following was the day appointed for the people to meet to raise the first company, and it was advised by the 
Colonel that the second should be raised at the same time.  We met the next day; the two companies were 
soon raised, and proceeded to elect their officers.  I was announced by Col. Sellars as a candidate for the 
First Lieutenency in the Second Company.  We were all drawn up in line.  The Colonel read the Governor's 
letter.  My opponent felt indignant at it and made some remarks.  I answered that it was true I was a stranger 
but had become a citizen of the country; that I had seen service in the War of 1812.  Should they favor me 
with the command, I would be with them through six troubles and not forsake them in the seventh.  My 
remarks were responded to with a cheer.  I was elected.  We joined the brigade in two days, and were on 
our line of march for Rock Island.  On our arrival the Indians retreated across the Mississippi.  We burned 
their town.  In a few days they sent in a flag of truce.  A council was held and peace made.  This ended the 
war of 1831.  The troops disbanded and all returned home.  

Nothing occurred, worth noting, till the summer of 1833.  Seeing no prospect of bettering my condition, I 
resolved to return to the lead mines and try to collect some of the old notes and accounts that were due me.  
The arrangement being made, brother B.T. Phelps, was to go with me and try our luck at mining and 
collecting.  Brother G.W. Phelps and my son, James, were to stay home and raise a crop.  After making a 
desperate effort, we raised the sum of $4.50.  This was insufficient, but we supplied the place of money by 
packing provisions on horse-back and taking them with us. 

We arrived at the lead mines in either May or June.  We met with a kindly reception from our old friends.  
We had but fifty cents left and that was soon spent in treating them.  We rested a couple of days with our 
acquaintances, after which my brother went to mining and I on a collecting tour.  My object was to go to 
Cassville, about sixty or seventy miles from the place where we stopped.  I was out of money and had 
nothing to bear my expenses.  I applied to an old friend to lean me a few dollars.  He said he had but fifty 
cents, but I could have that if it would do me any good.  I set out after breakfast and traveled all day without 
feeding my horse or eating a bite myself.  I got to a little town on the Big Platte and put up on a tavern.  the 
landlord was an old smelter with whom I was well acquainted.  He did not recognize me nor did I let myself 
to be known.  I was invited to supper, but I made an excuse, saying I was not very well and did not take 
supper.  This was strictly true, but I was very hungry and did not feel comfortable.  In the morning I arose 
early, ordered my horse and was told that breakfast would be ready in a few minutes, and that I had better 
take breakfast as I had had no supper.  I replied that I did not wish breakfast but would ride twelve or fifteen 
miles first, and by that time I thought I would feel better.  I called for my bill, which he said was fifty cents.  
This again left me without a cent.  About twelve miles on my road there lived a man who was owing me 
some seventy-five or eighty dollars for the last five years.  On my arrival there my horse was fed and 
breakfast set for me, to which I did ample justice.  I then introduced the objects of my visit, which was to 
collect what he had been so long owing me.  I stated to him that I was poor and had not the necessaries of 
life; that, notwithstanding my straightened circumstances, I had never oppressed him; that I was then 
traveling without one cent to bear my expenses, and solely depended upon the charity of the people and my 
friends for support; that if he could not pay all, any portion would be thankfully received.  His answer was 
that he had not money and could not pay anything.  This conversation took place before another gentleman 
who was in the room.   Though I had failed to reach the sympathy of my old debtor, I had touched a noble 
and generous chord in that of a stranger.  I felt gloomy and disappointed, and ordered my horse to proceed 
on my journey.  Just as I was mounting, the stranger came forward, unfolding a letter.  He drew out of it a 
five dollar bill, saying: "Sir, will you please accept this five dollars?  I would offer you more but this is all I 
have with me."  I thanked him for his kindness but could not accept it as he was a stranger to me, and I did 
not know when I could refund the money.  His answer was: "That will make no difference.  It will afford me 
more pleasure to accommodate you than it will for you to receive it," adding, "Though you are not 
acquainted with me personally, I have long known you by character."  I said, "Sir, as you insist, I will receive 
it, knowing, as I do, you will never be a loser by me.  Your disinterested kindness will ever be appreciated."

I now set out for Cassville, feeling grateful to my new-made friend, Mr. Segar, a native of Richmond, 
Virginia.  I had traveled but a few miles when I came to a house of another of my customers.  He settled the 
claim I had against him, and I arrived at Cassville that night.  I met many of my old friends and stayed there 
three days, during which time I collected about four hundred dollars of my old debts.  My sun, that I had 
thought had set forever, began to rise again.  My prospects brightened, and in a short time I collected about 
fourteen hundred dollars of my old debts.  I then returned home to furnish my family with the necessaries 
which they stood in need.

I stayed at home for a short time and then returned to the lead mines.  The morning I was to start Mr. 
Stephen A. St.Cyr, a Frenchman, came to see me.  He had formerly lived with me at that place.  I was not in 
good health.  My wife insisted that he should go with me and take care of me, if I should be sick on the road.  
He said he would be willing to go if he had a horse.  She said that if that was all he should have one.  The 
horse was gotten and we were soon on the way.  He had been a clerk five years for the Fur Company in the 
Rocky Mountains, and was well calculated to explore a new country.  On our arrival at the mines I found 
that my brother had not struck anything valuable in digging.  He had remained in the mines while I went 
home.  I had conceived a plan and formed a fixed determination to explore the beautiful valley of Rock 
River, which I had passed through in the year 1829.  

My object was to make a location, as near as possible, on a true line leading from Chicago to Galena, 
believing that at some future day, at the crossing of Rock River, it would be a very important point.  In order 
to get all the light I could, in regard to this locality, I carefully examined the map of the territory embracing 
the Rock River Valley, the locality of Chicago and that of Galena, ascertaining the distance.  Both places 
stand south of the northern boundary of the state.  All things being arranged, the Frenchman and myself set 
out on our exploring expedition, from near Mineral Point, on the Pecatonica in a small canoe.  We expected 
to reach Rock River in two days, but, owing to the crookedness of the stream, it was seven days before we 
reached it.  By this time our scanty supply of provisions had given out and we were forced to supply 
ourselves by the aid of our guns.  We found pheasants, squirrels and other game were plenty, and we lived 
well, with the exception of bread. 

We descended the Rock River to where Rockford is now situated, where we made short stop; examined that 
section on both sides of the River and found too great a scarcity of timber for a settlement.  Besides, I 
believed it too near the state line; that the true line from Chicago to Galena was far south of that place.  We 
then descended to where Byron now stands, where we stopped and looked at the surrounding country, 
believing that that was about far enough south.  But there was the same objection on account of timber.  

We still pursued our journey down the river, about one mile above where Oregon now stands.  We saw a 
tent on the west bank of the river, near the north-east corner of the Fair Ground.  I said to my friend that 
there was an Indian Wigwam; we will stop and see if we can get anything to eat.  He said that it was no 
Wigwam but a white man's tent.  We landed and, going to the tent, I was agreeably surprized to meet my old 
friend, Col. William S. Hamilton, a son of the celebrated Alexander Hamilton, who was killed in a duel with 
Aaron Burr.  I had made his acquaintance in my early settlement in the lead mines.  I had not seen him for 
five or six years.  He seemed astonished to meet me among the Indians and inquired what had brought me 
there.  I told him that I was on an exploring expedition to look at the country, and if I liked it to locate and 
make it my home.  He said I need not go any further; that I was in the right spot.  He said he had a contract 
from the Government to survey into townships a large portion of Rock River country, that he could give me 
directions where I could find one of the best locations he had ever seen; that it embraced good timber, good 
water, with a beautiful rolling prairie running down between two fine groves of timber -- about three miles 
west of where we were.  We were hungry; he prepared dinner for us.  He was about to raise camp and 
prosecute his work on his line; he had been there a day or two cooking and making preparations to continue 
his work.  After we had finished eating he took down his tent, packed up and started on his line, but before 
he left he gave us a week's supply of bread, and cut a middling of bacon in two and gave us half.  Being thus 
supplied with provisions, we had nothing to prevent us from making a through examination on both sides of 
the river.  This being done, I was satisfied it would admit of a fine settlement.  

I made the first claim where my farm is.  My next object was to make a claim where I intended making the 
road from Galena to cross the river.  On examining the banks on both sides, I found there could be a good 
road where Oregon now stands, so I made my claim there.  This was in the month of November, 1833.

The object of our journey being accomplished and fully satisfactory, we packed up our blankets, left our 
canoe and steered our course for the lead mines, on foot.  We arrived there in three days, undergoing much 
fatigue, hardship and suffering on our route.  In the Winter of l833 I went to the Legislature of Illinois and 
got a Bill passed for a state road from Chicago to Galena; also got the franchise of the ferry where the road 
crossed Rock River.  
 

Part II

In the spring of 1834, my two brothers, B.T. and G.W. Phelps, one hired man and myself, set out from 
Schuyler County with teams, provisions and farming utensils, to commence opening the farm on which I 
now live; planted and fenced forty acres in corn, built a house, and returned home, with the intention of 
moving the family up that fall.  But, on reflection, it was thought best to winter there, as we had plenty of 
food for our stock at home, and would move up early in the spring.  So my brother B.T. and myself came up 
in the fall together (to harvest) the corn and build a ferry boat.  On our arrival at Dixon we ascertained that 
the commissioners appointed to locate the road, had located the road through Naperville by the way of 
Dixon to Galena, making the road at least thirty miles longer to accommodate Mr. Naper and Mr. Dixon.  
Having been disappointed in the location of the road, I was resolved to have one, cost what it would.  After 
we had gathered our corn we returned home.  I went to the legislature, got a bill passed for a road from 
Chicago to Galena, at my own expense.  I was appointed one of the commissioners to locate the road. 

I moved the family up in the spring of 1835; arrived on the 17th May, found all our corn had been taken by 
Indians, had to depend upon grass to support my teams, and haul our provisions from Galena; laid out the 
town of Oregon.

In the fall I was in Galena and found notices posted by Mr. John Dixon, that at the meeting of the next 
legislature, he should apply for a new county.  This division did not suit me, as it was intended to place 
Oregon on the northern boundary of the county, thus cutting off all hopes of its ever becoming a county 
seat.  I immediately posted up notices that I should apply for a county at the ensuing session of the 
Legislature, making the boundaries altogether different, with an eye single to making Oregon the county 
seat.  The following winter I again attended the Legislature, had a bill drawn up and passed creating Ogle 
county, and commissioners appointed to locate the county seat.  It was located in the spring of 1837; the 
county was organized the following fall.  During this winter there was an effort to move the county seat to 
Dixon.  I again attended the Legislature and defeated their bill: during this struggle for the county seat.  It 
must be borne in mind that Ogle county embraced Lee also.

After all attempts had failed, Mr. Dixon advertised for a division of the county in 1838.  About the time I 
happened in Galena, was shown his advertisement for a division, by a friend of his.  After examining it 
carefully I told his  friend that I would not oppose the measure, provided he would agree to a small 
alteration.  I have but little doubt but my views were communicated to Mr. Dixon; but, be that as it may, he 
was up to see me in a few days; my demands were agreed to, I signed his petition for a division, gave him all 
the aid I could in support of it; thus ended the struggle about Ogle County and the county seat.  

During the years of 1835, 6, 7, and 8, the beautiful valley of the Rock River was just filling up with a set of 
industrious farmers from the New England States and Maryland.  Our rich and fertile lands began to show 
marks of civilization and enterprise, farms were opened on the margin of those delightful prairies, school 
houses were reared, and mills built for the convenience of the settlers: though the early settlers had to 
undergo many deprivations and hardships, doing without many comforts they had been accustomed to, yet 
they looked forward to the time, not far in the future that they should be surrounded by all the necessaries of 
life at their own happy home. These things have been attained in a great degree.  Many families that moved 
to this valley at an early day without means, are now well settled on their own farms, basking in the sunshine 
of prosperity.  It is industry that subdued the forest, tamed the wild prairie and developed its resources for 
the comfort of man.  

It is in the valley of Rock River in Ogle County that I laid the foundation of the prosperity I now enjoy.  I 
followed farming and improving my farm from 1834 to about 1844, though I went to Lake Pepin on an 
exploring expedition in the fall of 1840 for the purpose of location on some point to build a town, with the 
intention of remaining all winter.  I made the location where Lake City now stands, but learned afterward it 
was an Indian Reserve.  Finding that to be the case, and the weather growing cold, and badly provided for 
wintering in that cold region.  There were three of us in the enterprise, we agreed to turn homeward: by this 
time the ice was running thick, we had to descend the Mississippi about three hundred miles: before we 
reached Prairie Du Chien.  We bought a large pironge or dug-out, and put our baggage aboard.  We set out 
amongst the floating ice.  It was many days before we reached Prairie Du Chien, passed on to the mouth of 
the Wisconsin River,  where it was found impossible to pass down any farther.  We lay there three days, 
hoping the ice would cease running, so we could pass.  In the meantime, there fell a heavy snow, and our 
provisions gave out.  These circumstances forced us to leave our pironge and return to a house opposite to 
Prairie Du Chien. There we spent a week before we could cross the Mississippi.  We all underwent much 
suffering: so ended that enterprise.  

For the next two or three years there was nothing of interest.  I was busy farming, raised a large surplus of 
produce, and having no market nearer than Chicago, I determined to build boats and ship to St. Louis, with 
a view to raise money, to engage in the mercantile business.  Accordingly I built two boats, at Oregon, 
loaded them with produce that was raised on my farm, and set out on the trip.  That was in the month of 
May.  Owing to the low stage of the river, we had much difficulty at Sterling, we had to light over the rapids 
which consumed seven days.  That being done we again set out on our journey, met with no further 
obstacles until we arrived at the rapids near Rock Island, and about three miles from the mouth of Rock 
River.  We were there informed by a pilot that it would be impossible to cross; but the river was rising 
slowly, we lay there three days.  The man that I had employed to pilot us across the rapids, said that the 
river had risen sufficient to cross.  We again set out, and in a few minutes were swiftly gliding down the 
rapid current.  The pilot looking ahead, saw a large cotton-wood tree that had floated down and blocked up 
the channel: orders were given to pull to the right, and miss the tree if possible.  This being done which 
threw us upon a reef of rocks, tore a hole in the bottom of the boat and it filled with water.  We then 
beckoned the other boat to still pull to the right, so as to miss us.  This was done, but with no better result, 
as she came opposite us she lodged on a reef of rock and filled with water.  There was some produce that 
was lying on top that was not wet.  The next thing to be done was to get a lighter and take out the loading 
and raise the boats.  I went up to Rock Island, hired a ferryboat, stretched a rope from the shore to the boats 
and made it fast.  By that means we could reach the boats over the rapid current; by the most untiring 
perseverance we got the loading out, and raised the boats in about ten days, but lost all the trading that had 
got wet.  

We fitted up one of the boats, and reloaded with the produce which had been saved in good condition.  My 
son James C.T. Phelps, took charge of it, and ran it to St. Louis, and sold out at fair prices.  Thus ended that 
enterprise, at great loss of time and money.  These were the first boats ever built on Rock River.  

That unfortunate result did not prevent me from trying it again.  In the spring of 1844 I built another boat, 
loaded it again with the products of the farm; my son James took charge, and landed it safe in St.Louis.  
Sold out at remunerative prices, and laid out the proceeds in groceries preparatory to commencing business 
in the fall.  I went to New York in the latter part of October or first of November, to purchase goods, 
bought my stock and returned home in December.  I had agreed to form a co-partnership with Mr. Wesley 
Johnston; he was to meet me at Knowlesville in New York, and furnish his portion of money to purchase the 
stock.  He failed to meet me there.  I went to the city of New York and purchased stock in the name of John 
Phelps and Son, but before the goods arrive at Oregon, Mr. Johnston returned and his complying with 
agreements I withdrew and turned over my interest to him, which co-partnership has existed ever since.  For 
many years I purchased their goods in New York and elsewhere, being their regular empowered agent to do 
so.  From 1844 until the year 1856, I was engaged in various pursuits: sometimes in keeping store for Phelps 
and Johnston -- in fact my time was mostly spent in their interest, and whatever occupation I pleased to 
follow. 

In the fall of 1856 I visited Texas, spent the winter there, traveled and explored much of Western Texas 
from Galveston to Lavacca, Victoria, Gonzales, Austin from thence to San Antonio, from San Antonio to 
Goliad, from thence to the Neuces River.  I also visited the Alamo, where the brave Crockett fell.  I was in 
the fort at Goliad where the brave Fanning and his band was slain by Santa Anna, after they had surrendered 
as prisoners of war.  At those hallowed spots the marks of war were still visible on the walls.  After having 
explored much of Western Texas, and passing over those beautiful undulating prairies, together with the 
mild and salubrious climate, I determined to make it my future residence.  This determination was 
strengthened by the fact that all the citizens agreed it was the finest climate and country in the world.  
Having provided myself with money before I left Illinois I determined to make some investment if anything 
should offer sufficient inducement.  There were two chances that I supposed would pay well; one was horses 
and mules, the other a drove of cattle.  I however settled on horses believing they would be more profitable 
and less trouble.  I went to Goliad in April, the great market for such stock.  I there bought a drove just from 
Mexico, two hundred and eight head of horses and mules.  After a preparation of a few days for the long 
journey, we set out for Northern Illinois, a distance of fifteen hundred miles.  I had five hands, three 
Mexicans who came with the drove from Mexico, and two white men.  We were three months and ten days 
on the road from Goliad to Polo, Illinois. Though we had to undergo many hardships and privations on the 
route, yet there were many things pleasant.  It was always pleasant to me to travel in new parts of the world 
where I had never been.

The most interesting part of the journey was through the Indian Territory, a distance of three hundred and 
fifty miles. Much of that territory was rich and well timbered, with beautiful rolling prairies, well watered, 
and will be someday the abode of happy thousands.  This enterprise turned out profitably; we cleared some 
seven thousand dollars.  So I passed Austin, Texas, I ascertained that there was a large brick store for sale.  
I examined it carefully, and finding it would suit me for a business house, I appointed an agent to purchase it 
for me, authorizing him to draw on me for the first payment of the purchase money.  I had not been at home 
but a few days before I received a letter informing me that he bought the property, and draw on me for four 
thousand dollars.  The money was sent and I proceeded to New York, and purchased a large stock of goods 
for Austin, shipped them for Fort Lavacca, Texas, and returned home to make arrangements to move my 
family to Austin; but on my arrival home, I received a letter that the contract for the building had been 
broken and the money returned.  This placed me in a bad condition, the goods having been shipped for that 
place, and having no house to go into.  I immediately set out for Texas, to 
procure a business house, leaving my family to follow as soon as possible.  

On my arrival in Houston, where the gentleman lived that owned the building that I had purchased through 
my agent, I found him in his counting room reading a letter.  I introduced myself to him as being the man 
that had purchased the brick store in the city of Austin through my agent; that he had drawn on me for the 
first payment, the money was sent, and on the strength of that contract, and my compliance in forwarding 
the money, and believing from these facts that the property was mine, I had gone to New York and 
purchased a large stock of goods, and shipped for that point.  On my return home in Illinois I received 
another letter enclosing my money back, as I before stated.  The letter he was reading was from his agent at 
Austin: he handed me the letter saying that it was concerning the sale, and stated to him there were in the 
post office many packages and letters to me, evidently bills of goods purchased for that place, that it would 
be a great disappointment and damage to me.  I told him his agent took a proper view of it.  His reply was 
that I should not be put to any inconvenience -- that if I did not see fit to pay the difference in question  I 
could have the building on rent, and would give me a year to consider if I would take it on his terms or not, 
as I might see fit.  This proposition set the matter at rest, in a couple of months I accepted his proposal and 
took the house; the goods arrived, business was good, and all things bade fair for prosperity. 

Nothing was wanting but the safe arrival of my family, who were to leave Illinois in a few weeks after I did; 
but time rolled on slowly -- no tidings of them.  I knew they had time to arrive, if no misfortune had befallen 
them.  I grew anxious and uneasy, but weeks rolled on and left me in doubt and gloomy suspense.  But my 
anxious doubts were too soon confirmed by stern reality.  John Shaffer, a clerk of ours who traveled with 
the family, left them in New Orleans, and came on to Austin, bringing the sad intelligence that my wife, son 
Napoleon and brother G.W. Phelp's wife were all lying dangerously sick in the city of New Orleans, but it 
was thought they were slowly on the mend; that he was sent on to inform me of the cause of delay. This sad 
news had a tendency to increase my uneasiness.  I well knew his instructions were to report as favorably as 
possible.  I was then again doomed to weeks of gloomy suspense.  The family arrived at Austin worn with 
fatigue, worn down with grief, bringing the sad news of the death of our son Napoleon and my brother's 
wife.  These afflictions in a strange land made it doubly severe: no friends to soothe our grief, or sympathize 
with us in our sorrows.  This all happened in the year 1857.

In the spring of 1858 I again went to New York to purchase goods for Texas; returned by way of Illinois, 
and so on home to Texas.  I remained there until the summer of 1859; the family being dissatisfied, and 
wishing to return to their old home in Illinois, I bought teams, a good carriage and baggage wagon, and set 
out on forth of July, on the overland, route, a distance of one thousand four hundred miles.  We were forty-
two and a half days on the road.  The journey was pleasant, having good weather, fine roads, and nothing to 
impede our course. We lost a mule by choking himself to death in the night, by getting his hind feet in the 
halter: as we had an extra horse which took his place in the team, this caused us no inconvenience.  The 
family was much delighted with the beautiful landscape through which we passed: we were upwards of a 
whole day in passing through Indian mounds which seemed laid out in regular distances and uniform height 
and size, say about seven or eight steps apart.  The days journey was about thirty miles: it seemed to be a 
burial place, but was too extensive for any such purpose; but who can fathom the mystery?  Were they 
designed for residences, or tombs?  When were they constructed?  Who were the builders?  Will the world 
ever know more of them then we do at this time?

The journey being finished and the family settled down at home, I again went to New York to purchase 
more goods for Texas.  I returned by way of Illinois, left Polo in November for the South again: remained 
there until April, 1861, after the war had broken out. -- Believing I would again cut off from my family by a 
protracted struggle, I again set off for my home in the North.  I took passage on a steamship at Galveston 
and arrived in the City of New Orleans in two or three days.  On our arrival, the ship was taken possession 
of by the Confederate Government; all was bustle and confusion, troops were gathering at every town I 
passed through.  Before leaving New Orleans I purchased forty hogsheads sugar, several tierces of rice, and 
a number of barrels of Molasses, and shipped on a steamer for St. Louis, which was the last one allowed to 
pass the city of Memphis, as the cargoes were confiscated from that time on, that were intended for the 
West.  I took the cars from New Orleans to Cairo, and thence for home.  

In June 1860, I left Austin for Illinois again, and traveled the whole distance alone in a buggy, lay out every 
night without any company, or stayed in a house until I had crossed the Missouri River, a distance of about 
nine hundred and fifty miles.  I had intended when I struck the Indian Territory to wait until I should find 
someone going through, so as to have company; but when I arrived at Red River, it seemed somewhat 
uncertain how long I might have to wait.  I therefore came to the conclusion to pursue my journey alone.  I 
had traveled but one day's journey before I met with an Indian who inquired of me if I had seen a man 
hanging by the roadside.  I told him I had not.  He said he expected his friends had taken him away.  I 
inquired how he came to be hanging there.  He told me that the man had come with a small drove of horses 
and stopped at the house a short distance from the road; that night there came some men and took the 
horses and the man that brought them there, and went off with them.  The next day they found him hanging 
by the roadside.  He also said that he had stolen the horses and the owners followed him. The circumstances 
led me to reflect that my situation was not a desirable one: I knew there were many white men in the Indian 
Territory "that had left their country for their country's good", or, in other words, to evade punishment for 
high crimes against the law; that I was alone, that I must sleep at night, and whilst asleep it would be easy 
for such desperadoes to kill me, take my mule, buggy and effects, and make their escape.  Under these 
reflections I became a little more careful, and would leave the road at night, and place myself in some 
location where my buggy could not be seen from the road.  This precaution was used for two or three 
nights, but finding it inconvenient, owing to the location of the ground, was forced to stop in the midst of 
wide prairies, where there was no possible chance of getting out of sight of the road.  I therefore camped 
wherever night overtook me.  I had provided myself with sufficient provisions to last me through the Indian 
country, also corn for my mule.  There was nothing wanting but company to make the journey pleasant.  I 
was seven days passing through the Indian county, until I reached the settlements in the south part of 
Missouri: nor did I lie in a house until I crossed the Missouri River, a distance of nine hundred and fifty miles 
from Austin.  I was thirty-five days on the road, and did not change my clothes until I reached home in Polo, 
as I had lost the key of my trunk soon after I had started from Austin, in the Indian country.  I had also lost 
my valise out of my buggy, which contained my Navy colt revolver, and in consequence was unarmed, and 
had nothing to defend myself with.  After I had crossed the Missouri River, I was taken sick, and had to stop 
two days before I was able to travel.  That was the first time that I had shelter from the time that I left 
Austin on this trip.  I lay in the house on my own blanket; I was urged to take a bed, but would not having a 
change of clothes to put on.  As soon as I recovered sufficiently to travel again, I made a new start, traveled 
all day, being much fatigued called at a house to stay all night. I was told they could not keep me; that his 
wife was sick, and could not give me any supper.  I told him it was shelter that I wanted, and would waive a 
supper: that I had been sick, and did not wish to lay out.  He replied he was frequently imposed upon by 
travelers; that they would call and stay all night, get their supper lodging and breakfast, and when they were 
ready to start would say that they could not pay at present, but would pay him the first time they passed, or 
would send the pay to him, but never did it: he had become tired of such imposition.  - he wished to know if 
I could pay my bill: I answered that I thought I could.  He replied, pointing his finger at me.  "I want you to 
be sure".  I answered I was sure I would pay him.  He said then you can stay.  I had a good supper and 
breakfast, and my mule well taken care of: paid my bill in the morning, and resumed my journey.  I found the 
same difficulty almost every night, doubtless owing to my haggard and unclean appearance.  I bore their 
indisposition to give me accommodation without offense.  I was satisfied that were I at home, no such 
looking man could have got shelter with me.  

There was another little occurrence that took place, to the great amusement of the parties that witnessed it.  
It was this.  As I was driving by a house, I discovered they had a lot of fine ripe cherries hanging on the trees 
in the yard.  Being fond of them, I concluded I would call and get drink of water, and perhaps they might 
invite me to gather and eat some of that fruit.  So I got out of my buggy, went into the house and asked for 
water, which was handed me: at the same time I noticed four or five buckets setting in the room full of 
cherries. I observed they had a fine lot of that fruit.  

She replied, yes, our trees are very full this year: I said there was no fruit I was so fond of: the lady said it 
was very good, would I not wish to gather some?  I thanked her and said I should be pleased to do so.  
There were three young ladies in the orchard, where I went to gather a few to eat and some to put into my 
pocket.  Seeing a tree on which the fruit was much riper and fuller, I went to that and commenced gathering.  
I soon found why the fruit was not gathered:  there was a bee hive sitting under it.  They began to swarm 
out upon me.  I to retreat, and keep up a running fight, the young ladies to laugh in a smothered manner.  I 
ran under other trees and knocked off my hat, giving the bees a better chance at my face, which caused me 
to re-double my exertions in fighting and retreating.  I ran under some other limbs, which caught on my wig 
and left it hanging there.  This was too much for the ladies to bear: they broke out in the wildest shrieks of 
laughter, to my great mortification.  I kept back till the enemy retreated, gathered up my lost property, hat, 
wig and handkerchief, and left for Illinois, and arrived at home a few days after.  This was my last overland 
trip from Texas to Illinois.  

In the fall of 1860 I returned to Texas, the mercantile business being closed out: was there for the purpose of 
making collections.  I succeeded in collecting about $5,000 in gold.  The war having broken out in the 
beginning of 1861, and believing that all travel would be stopped between the North and South, I left for 
New Orleans.  On my way home, while in that city, I invested the $5,000 in sugar at 3 1/2 cts. per pound, 
and shipped it by steamer for St. Louis, where it arrived safe: it was the last steamer that was allowed to go 
above Memphis, as after that the Confederates confiscated all cargoes consigned to parties 
above that place.  The sugar was sold by a firm in that year at from nine to ten and a half cents.  On my 
return to Illinois in 1861, I spent my time on the farm, -- clearing up a wood lawn, planting a variety of fruit 
trees, setting out a fine vineyard and a large quantity of dwarf and fancy fruits.  After completing that work I 
commenced in the year 1863 on the farm, building a commodious and fine Gothic brick residence, together 
with suitable outbuilding, planting three acres of forest trees, consisting of sugar maple, elm, honey locust, 
cherry, scotch pine, Norway spruce, balsam or fir, and larch in front on the house, extending to the State 
road from Chicago to Galena, as those acres are a lawn to the house.  In fact I have done everything that 
was necessary to be done to make a pleasant and a happy home.  Its improvements are substantial and 
elegant; it will make a beautiful home for those that follow me.  These things have all been done within the 
last six years, ending the first of January, 1867.

In November, 1863, while the work was suspended in winter on my residence, I took a trip to St. Paul, 
Minnesota, for pleasure and to visit my son, JCT Phelps, who was engaged in that city in the mercantile 
business.  I remained there about two months and a half.  I went to see all the places of note that were within 
a short distance, as St. Anthony Falls, Minneapolis, Lake Como, Minnehaha Falls, Fort Snelling, I then 
returned home, and continued to make whatever improvement on my place that I fancied.  In March, 1865, I 
was subpoenaed to Cincinnati, Ohio, in a military trial, to give evidence in the case, as to the character of the 
principal witness sustained in the city of Austin, Texas.  The trial was for conspiracy to release the rebel 
prisoners in Camp Douglas.  The parties tried were Judge Morris and Walsh: Morris was acquitted, Walsh 
was sentenced to prison. 

In December, 1867, I went to Virginia to see my birthplace and visit relatives, who gave me a warm 
reception. In viewing what was my father's farm brought many sad feelings to my mind.  The old homestead 
had been moved off; the only trace that time had left was the stumps of locust trees that had shaded my only 
home.  Father, mother, brothers and sisters now sleep the sleep that knows no waking, and that pleasant 
home is now a dense pine forest, and soon all will be forgotten.  I then went to Tennessee where my parents 
spent the remainder of their lives; visited their graves, and some old friends who were still living.  I returned 
home in the month of March following.  I cultivated my vine through the summer, was rewarded by a good 
crop of grapes in the fall, and made about four hundred gallons of wine: have made wine every fall up to this 
fall of 1873, and have at this time about three thousand gallons on hand, having everything finished up ready 
for winter.  I concluded to take my daughter Sarah L. Johnston  south for the benefit of 
her health and pleasure, as she was anxious to visit the home of her childhood.

We left Oregon on the 20th November 1873, arrived in Kentucky in two days, enjoying the society of 
relatives and friends whose hospitality and kind heartedness seems to be a gift of nature, well cultivated.  We 
remained two weeks in Cynthiana, then started again for Gallatin, Tennessee, where we met many friends 
and relatives, it being in the neighborhood of my own home, where all was bright and beautiful to my 
untutored mind.  We traveled through all or a large portion of that State: was in Murfreesbourough where 
the battle of Stone River was fought.  We visited an uncle of my wife's, who was one hundred and four years 
old.  He was in possession of all his faculties except sight: his mind clear and remarkably good.  He was a 
member of the Baptist Church, and went to hear a sermon every Sunday.   We also went to the Cumberland 
Mountains: the scenery grand and the valley's fertile, and good health the boast of its inhabitants.  I 
concluded to go to Texas, as traveling was pleasant, but my daughter did not wish to go by water, so it was 
agreed that we would go no farther south, and we could meet with no better entertainment than with our 
relatives, whose kindness will never be forgotten.  We returned, and arrived home the third of March, 1874.  


* * * * * * * 

This closes the narrative of Mr. Phelps.  Mr. Phelps set about clearing up his lawns and making 
arrangements for spring work, in which he felt greatly interested.  He exposed himself in the cold, damp 
weather and was taken with a congestive chill on Saturday.  On Sunday he sat up part of the day but on 
Monday he had another chill.  The physicians held a consultation and exerted all the skill in their power but 
without avail.  He died on Wednesday at nine o' clock, April 1st, 1874.  He was buried on Good Friday, 
April 3rd, in Greenwood Cemetery, above Oregon.  Since then a Scotch granite monument has been erected 
to his memory, at an expense of $2,000.  

In his biography here were many things of much interest omitted by Mr. Phelps.  He was the judge of 
Probate (now termed County Judge) of Ogle County.  He was elected by the legislature of Illinois.  At that 
time Stephen A. Douglass, Gen. James Shields and the Rev. Peter Cartwright were members of the 
Legislature, and several companions of his youth also, and were strong friends of Mr. Phelps, and did all 
they could to assist him in carrying out his views,  his opponent for the judgeship being a Dixon man by the 
name of Galbraith.  

Mr. Phelps, with two others, was commissioned to select three permanent county seats in Northern Illinois.  
Oregon being one of them, the first Circuit Court ever held in Ogle County was in his building at Oregon.  
He went to the city of Washington and secured the contract for carrying the mail. He then became a partner 
of the noted stage company Frink & Walker, and thereby brought the first line of stages ever through 
Oregon.  After Oregon was established as the county seat, it was discovered that in placing the Government 
stakes by the surveyor, it was about four rods from the proper point and on the quarter section that Mr. 
Phelps had laid out his town and on which he had spent several thousand  dollars in erecting building for 
taverns,  stores and private dwellings, and, consequently, of great value.  

A new set of County Commissioners having been elected, they commenced suit to dispossess him of his 
property.  The suit was taken to the courts at Washington and, after a long and vexatious suit, Mr. Phelps 
lost his case and was compelled to buy of the County the lots he improved, at exorbitant prices - whatever 
value the Commissioners chose to place upon them.  The Attorney for Mr. Phelps at Washington was the 
noted Francis Scott Key, author of The Star Spangled Banner.  

The first saw-mill built in Ogle County was erected by Mr. Phelps on Pine Creek.  He cleared the first year 
$5,000.00, and it was run for many years - until it was worn out.  An exciting time commenced with said 
mill occurred shortly after it commenced running.  There was a large number of logs he had caused to be 
hauled to the mill, and, at the time, a man living near Dixon claimed the land on which the mill stood, and 
one day he brought ten or twelve teams and commenced hauling the logs away from the mill.  The lawyers 
put in a protest and sent word to Mr. Phelps at his farm six miles away.  The next day, Mr. Phelps mustered 
his neighbors and brothers to go down and give battle, he taking command and telling them that no man was 
to strike a blow only as he directed.  He thought his brothers and himself could defeat the pirates; if not, he 
them would order the charge.  They numbered about fifty men.  They went on horseback in single file.  The 
enemy were busy hauling the logs and he ordered his brothers to lead off and attack the leading men, which 
they did by knocking them down.  The enemy seeing what was taking place, ran away - two or three of them 
- leaving their teams.  The parties knocked down called for quarters, which were granted, they agreeing to 
go away and surrender any claim they had set up, and not molest or interfere with anything in the future.  
The teams were given up to them, so the war ended.  

The following is an extract from a letter received from a gentleman living in Tennessee, who was an intimate 
friend: 

"I have been acquainted with Mr. Phelps sixty years, having formed his acquaintance in 1816.  The most 
prominent trait in my mind was in the campaign of New Orleans in 1814 and 1815; that long journey from 
his father's house, through a wilderness and savage country, swimming swollen water courses, steering his 
course by the moss on the trees, without the sign of a track that human foot-steps had made to travel on, 
until he affected a junction with the army.  This was a feat of suffering and patriotic heroism, and devotion 
to his country's service, which perhaps could not be found again amongst an army if one hundred thousand 
boys of eighteen summers, which was about his age when he set out on that campaign."

Another gentleman of Tennessee says Mr. Phelps was the greatest benefactor of the public in that region, as 
his enterprise kept the country in a flourishing condition.  He bought the produce of several counties around 
him when there was no market for it, and made provision for freighting for those who professed to do so 
and transacted their business in distant parts of the country and cities.  

Before the use of steamboats, they used flat and keel boats, and the first steamer that ever ascended the 
River above Nashville was chartered and freighted by him.  Hartsville being her destination, we loaded there 
for New Orleans.  The name of the boat was "President".  Thousands of people lined the Banks of the River 
to get the first view ever had of a steamboat.  The boat load consisted principally of cotton and tobacco, also 
farm products, such as are raised in that climate, were sent off to market.  Amongst the oddities of 
commerce of that day, peacock feathers formed an item.  One old lady had her feathers manufactured into 
fly brushes.  She sent ten of them to New Orleans by Mr. Phelps and received, as a net return, sixty dollars 
or at the rate of ten dollars each.  

Taking him all in all, he was a remarkable man.  He had an indomitable will.  When he undertook an 
enterprise it was forced through to an end, whether it was a success or a failure.  he never swerved from the 
track he had marked out and carried out enterprises that many others in the same circumstances would have 
become faint-hearted and lost all.  He was a devoted friend and was just to an enemy.  He valued honor far 
more than wealth or fame.  At his death two physicians stood over him.  One remarked -- "he is conscious to 
the last and reminds me of some old Roman chieftain, fearing nothing."

The following poem was written by J. Willard Glidden, of DeKalb, April, 1874, in memory of Mr. Phelps. 

He hath gone to his rest, how calm he lies sleeping, 
	No rude wintry storms shall disturb his repose; 
Though fond hearts will mourn, and loved ones are weeping,
	They would not recall him again to life's woes.

He hath gone to his rest; no more we behold him, 
	The soldier, the hero, the true and the tried; 
With the good and the brave they have proudly enrolled him;
	Ah, well may we morn when the noble have died.

Ah, there let him rest, by the "beautiful river",
	Whose waters flow on to the far distant main;
'Mid the scenes that he loved, made glorious forever, 
	By nature's grand impress, on grove, hill and plain.

Long years may depart - and fond hopes may perish,
	The spring flowers fade and the gay summers bloom;
Yet dear ones will come, who his memory still cherish,
	With sweet immortelles to regarland his tomb.

Like a sheaf fully ripe, when the harvest we gather,
	He bowed his aged form when the death angel passed;
A husband beloved, a kind gentle father, 
	A patriarch faithful and true to the last.

His was the warm soul that tralled with emotion, 
	In free social converse he well bore his part, 
His was the spirit of tireless devotion,
	To home, friends and country he gave his whole heart.

He came to the West, to the wilds lone and dreary, 
	He feared not its hardships, he shrank not from toil;
His work was well done, all care-worn and weary, 
	He was laid down to rest on his chosen soil.

Shall we still follow on - with the dear pleasing story,
	beyond the dark vale to a realm ever fair,
Where spirits immortal will gaze on the glory,
	Too dazzling and bright for earth's children to bear.

Oh! blest star of faith, mayest thou ever shine o'er us,
	And light up our homes with the soul-cheering ray;
With glory illuminate the pathway before us, 
	That leads thru' the pearl gates to Heaven's bright day. 

                       * * * * * *

Obituary: The Ogle County Reporter, Vol. XXIII, No. 32 -- Whole No. 1172, T.O. Johnston, Publisher, 
Oregon, Illinois, 
April 9, 1874:        John Phelps 


...he had been identified with this part of the country and its interests for forty years.  Northern Illinois, and 
Southern Wisconsin, which were the principal scenes of his operations for nearly half a century, will know 
him no more. --- The founder of Oregon is dead and now sleeps in the cold silent tomb... The first white 
settler of Ogle county will never again, in the mortal form, visit its undulating prairies and shady groves...

At a meeting of the Old Settlers held in Oregon, April 6th, 1874, James V. Gale was called to the chair, and 
Wm. J. Mix appointed Secretary, when on motion, the following was adopted as the sense of the meeting:

WHEREAS, We recongnize the fact that to the early settler and pioneer, the present generation are indebted 
for their enjoyment of the greatest and best country and land ever given to man, and who with iron arm and 
will, fearlessly met all dangers, and suffered all privations and hardships incident to those who first open the 
road for civilization in the remote wilderness, which can be fully appreciated only by those who have 
experienced them; and 

WHEREAS, Our numbers are fading away, link by link, we feel the bond of unity growing stronger among 
the few of us who are left, and 

WHEREAS, In the death of our friend and brother pioneer - John Phelps - we feel that the key-stone to a 
strong arch had become broken, we feel thankful to an all wise Providence, that we remain to bear testimony 
to his worth, his unswerving fidelity to his manhood, his generous hospitality, his detestation of a mean or 
small act, his indomitable energy and enterprise, his kindness to his friends, his tenderness and generosity as 
a husband, father and relative, his embodiment of a greater share of those qualities of head and heart, all 
combine to command our warmest admiration and esteem, and stir within us the deepest notes of grief for 
the loss we have sustained, and of sympathy for the family circle which has suffered this sad bereavement.  
To the aged companion of his life we tender our heartfelt sympathy, and with her mingle the tear of sorrow. 

To the children and relatives who have been guided to the summit of the pathway of life by his counsel, we 
desire to express our grief for their loss from the web of life which no living thread can replace, that our 
words of consolation come not from the lips only, but from the depths of the heart also.

RESOLVED, That a copy of these proceedings, signed by the President and Secretary, be sent to the family, 
and furnished to the Grange and Reporter, and the other papers of the county be requested to copy
							James V. Gale, President
							Wm. J. Mix, Secretary


By request of his family, Mr. Phelps several years since, wrote a brief history of his life, which at the time of 
his death was carried to the 1st of January, 1867.  We here present, very briefly, a few incidents we have 
collected from its pages.  Only a week previous to his decease, Mr. Phelps was the recipient of a letter from 
the secretary of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, requesting his history for publication, in book 
form, for the archives of that State, - which he intended to commence writing up the following week. 
[Summarized is the Narrative of Mr. Phelps].

Mr. Phelps would have been seventy-eight years of age on the eighth of next August.  He was endowed with 
a strong vigorous constitution, and had not been seriously ill for the last forty years.  Two weeks ago today 
he walked from his residence to that of John Wagner [see obituary below], on an adjoining farm, nearly two 
miles distant, to visit his old comrade and friend... who was then not expected to live... Saturday following, 
Mr. Phelps himself was taken sick, and on the following Wednesday expired about nine o'clock in the 
morning... He was a kind and indulgent father and husband, the very soul of honor, never stooping to a low 
or mean action.  He abhorred hypocrisy and deceit...

During the last fall he paid a visit to Mr. and Mrs. Lighthizer at Madison, Wisconsin. -- He made the trip 
with horse and buggy, -- and during this winter, he made a very pleasant visit, accompanied by his daughter, 
Mrs. S.L. Johnston, to the scenes of his youth in Kentucky, and in Tennessee, where he spent nearly four 
months, and had been home but a little over three weeks, at the time of his decease.  In fond anticipation of 
that visit this Spring, by some of his boyhood companions, he overworked himself clearing the rubbish from 
his lawns, and getting everything in order to give them glad surprise, and thus brought on his last sickness.

...The funeral took place at Mr. Phelp's late residence, on Good Friday at ten o'clock A.M.  The services 
were conducted by Rev. Stroh and Lipe.  Military honors were accorded to the deceased, as a soldier of the 
war of 1812... The funeral cortege was large and imposing, being about one mile in length.  

...The corpse was interred in the cemetery one mile above Oregon, laid out by Mr. Phelps, and in a lot 
selected by him when Oregon was in its infancy.
              
>From the same paper:

The relatives of the late Mr. John Phelps tender their thanks to the band, Military Escort, Old Settlers, and 
citizens generally, for their sympathy, and high honor paid on the occasion of the funeral.  
					 J.C.T. Phelps
                          Wesley Johnston
---------
>From the same paper:

Personal. -- Mr. John Shafer, of the firm of Phelps & Shafer, dry goods merchants, of Aledo, Mercer Co., 
Ill., spent a few days in town last week and this.  He was up here to the funeral of his old friend, Mr. John 
Phelps, by whom he was employed over sixteen years.  As the funeral procession was passing through the 
town on Friday, Mr. S. reached the depot on the freight train.  He heard the bell tolling, and ran from the 
depot to town, procured a horse and buggy at Cross and Start's livery stable, and reached the cemetery just 
in time to witness the last rites. 

[Quoted from: "The Ogle County Reporter", ["The Oldest Paper in the County, and Having the Largest 
Circulation"]  April 9, l874, Oregon, Illinois; T.O. Johnston, Editor and Proprietor [grandson of John 
Phelps, son of Sarah Phelps Johnston].


* * * * * * * * * 

Obituary: Mrs. John Phelps, Sarah Rogan Carlin Phelps, The Ogle County Reporter, Oregon, Illinois, 17 
April 1879, Published by Timoleon Oscar Johnston  

The deceased lady, whose biography appears below had been suffering for several months prior to her death.  
Her debility was due to old age and its attendant train of infirmities, rather than due to any inherent physical 
ailment.  We have never seen more intense suffering or a 
more heroic fortitude displayed, than by the lady whom we mourn.  While tortured in body, her mind was 
clear and peaceful.  Well spent days -- reaching out to the infinite, without a murmur.  The gentle spirit was 
"wafted across the river" in the silent hours of the early morn, when the turmoil of the world was hushed, -- 
the solitude of the night unbroken -- fit time to part with sorrow and enter the radiant mansions of eternal 
joy.  

Mrs. Phelps character is happily depicted by the poet:
            "Beautiful lives are those that bless,
            Silent rivers of happiness, 
            whose hidden fountains but few may guess"

Deceased was relict of the late John Phelps, who founded the city of Oregon and surveyed the old 
government road from Chicago to Galena.  Mrs. Phelps died at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. Wesley 
Johnston, in this place.  Mr. J.C.T. Phelps of Rockvale [township], and Mrs. Sarah L. Johnston are the 
surviving children, Napoleon, the third child, having died in New Orleans in 1858.  The funeral, April 8th, 
was largely attended, at the M.E. church.  The remains were buried in the family lot at Riverview cemetery.  
During the funeral discourse Rev. H. Crews read the following sketch, embodying some facts with reference 
to the departed not given elsewhere:

Mrs. Sarah R. Phelps was born in Franklin County, [rather probably born near present Lambsburg, Carroll 
county] Virginia, April 29, 1797, and on the 29th inst. would have been eighty-two years old.  She was 
married in Tennessee, on the 14th of March 18l6.  She survived her husband five years and six days.  Her 
maiden name was Sarah R. Carlin and was a  [second] cousin of Governor [Thomas] Carlin of this State.  
She was a very exemplary woman, had a pleasant smile for all, kindness of disposition that endeared her to 
all of her many acquaintances in this county and in Tennessee.  She with her husband settled here in the year 
l835, on their farm three miles from Oregon.  We can give you some insight of the appreciation in which she 
was held by her husband from an extract of a letter from him to her in l860: "I am now entering my sixty-
fourth year.  My life has been, on the whole, rather an eventful one.  Sometimes flushed with success and at 
others sunk in the deepest despair, sometimes basking in the sunshine of prosperity, at others, overshadowed 
by gloom. -- When I have been beset with troubles without, I have always found comfort and happiness at 
home in the bosom of my family.  You, my dear companion, whose destiny has been chained to mine for the 
last forty-three years, sharing with me the toils, troubles and disappointments which us poor mortals have to 
encounter through the rough journey of life, always bearing your part with noble fortitude and always 
submitting to what could not be helped, without a murmur when borne down by misfortune, and destitute of 
common comforts, you did not complain, but always ready to assist in trying to elevate our condition.  It is 
your kindness, prudence and forbearance under the most trying circumstances of misfortune, that has always 
inspired me with new zeal, and made my rough paths smooth." --

Mother Phelps was a model wife and woman.  You have evidence of the one who knew her the longest, 
taken from a private letter, which was written when the heyday of youth was gone.  Her life will remind you 
of the beautiful expression of Ruth.  "Entreat me not to leave thee; for whither thou goest 

I will go, and where thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people, and they God my God; where 
thou diest will I die, and there will I be buried; the Lord do so to me and more also, If aught but death part 
thee and me."



Published in the same newspaper, April 10, 1879:
Sarah R. Phelps -- This esteemed lady departed this life Sunday morning [April 6] about one o'clock... The 
funeral was held at the M.E. church Tuesday afternoon [April 8] and was largely attended...

---------
Sarah R. Phelps applied for a War of 1812  Claim of Soldier for Service Pension [for widow]. Claim number 
26.543, under Act of March 9, 1878.  She had to send in the original approval for John Phelps (see above) 
claim reluctantly:

Geo. W. Hormell             St. of Illinois, Ogle County, Office of the Clerk of the County Court. Oregon June 
13,1878 

Commissioner of Pension
                      You will please return this notice of Allowance of Pension, that was sent John Phelps after 
you get through with it, to Mrs. Sarah R. Phelps as she wishes to preserve it                   Yours Respectfully
                                 Wesley Johnston

Sarah's application, 13 Jun 1878, gave the following information about him: John Phelps, a Private, in the 
company commanded by Captain Beverly Williams in the Second regiment of Tennessee Mounted Volunteer 
Gunmen commanded by Thomas Williamson, Colonel, in War of 1812. ... He was 1st Lieutenant in Capt. 
Vanis (sp?) company, think 6th Reg. Ill. Volunteers in Black Hawk War in 1831.  He resided Wilson 
County, Tennessee from 1815 to 1820, then at Hicks Ferry Arkansas until 1821 from thence to Hartsville, 
Sumner County, Tennessee until 1827, from there to White Oak Springs, Wisconsin Territory until 1829 
from there to Madison County Illinois until 1830 then to Schuyler Co. Ill. to 1834 then Ogle County Illinois 
until 1857 then to Austin Texas to 1860 then Rockvale Ogle County Illinois until death April 1, 1874.

Description at the time of his enlistment, viz: He was 18 years of age was born in Bedford County Virginia 
before war was a farmer height at enlistment 5 ft. 11 inches color of hair and eyes at that time black.  
Complexion dark, ever since the war was engaged in the mercantile business.  He got a land warrant don't 
know the number.  He drew pension from Feb 14, 1871 until death certificate no 14695.        
                                      
Another notice was sent the Pension Commissioner, on the letterhead of the County Court Clerk asking for 
a decision or information on what more was needed..."she has heard nothing since August last, and is in 
need of the money.  Please let us hear from you on receipt of this.
                      Respectfully
                      J W Mack                                 

She filed the claim 13 June 1878 and the claim was rejected April 17, 1880, when the Postmaster of Oregon 
notified them that she had died 27 April 1879.

------------
June 14, 1883, Ogle County Reporter, Oregon, Ill.
Administrators Notice of Filing of Final Settlement

State of Illinois)
Ogle County      )
Estate of John Phelps, Deceased.  To the heirs of John Phelps, deceased.  You are hereby notified that on 
Monday, the 23rd day of July, A.D. 1883, the Executor of said Estate will present to the County Court of 
Ogle County, at the Court House in Oregon, Illinois, his final report of his acts and doings as such Executor, 
and ask the Court to be discharged from any further duties and responsibilities connected with said Estate 
and his administration there of, at which time and place you may present and resist such application, if you 
choose so to do.   Henry P. Lason
                                       County Clerk


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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Gordon Merritt 
<gmerritt783@yahoo.com>