For a long time the Ponca villages were located in southwestern Minnesota and the Black Hills of South Dakota.

In 1865 the Ponca ceded nearly one-third of their reservation to the United States, but were guaranteed title to about 96,000 acres. Three years later the U. S. government ignored this guarantee and ceded the Ponca lands to the Sioux. The Ponca soon saw their people being killed, their stock stolen, and their lands overrun by the Sioux.

An act of Congress in 1876 provided for the removal of the Ponca to Indian Territory. At that time there were 730 members of the Ponca tribe reported in South Dakota by the Ponca Agency. The Ponca Indians were forcibly moved by U. S. troops, reaching the Quapaw reservation, Indian Territory, in the summer of 1877. They now numbered 681 persons, 36 having stayed in the North with the Omaha. Many died during their stay at the Quapaw Agency and during their first year on the Ponca reservation, a tract of 101,894 acres lying at the mouth of and on both sides of the Salt Fork.

[Note: In 1880 some Tonkawa Indians located on the Ponca Agency.]

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Robert Hudson, Jr. (1863-1953) of Winfield, Kansas, recalled the early-day Indians.

AThere were lots of people shot in Winfield those early days, but it was always by white people, usually in a saloon brawl, and never by Indians.

AOne of the favorite recreations of the citizens at that time was to get the Indians to put on dances on the street, and I still remember, with pleasure, learning the peculiar shuffling steps and joining in the festivities when a lad.@

The Indian camp nearest to Winfield was this side of Union Cemetery where the Poncas lived for a short time after the Hudsons arrived. Kaws and Cherokees also inhabited this section but were soon driven to less settled territory as the white men pushed them out.

Hudson commented: AAt one time there was a Ponca Indian grave, built of logs, rock, branches, and dirt above the ground, northeast of Island Park. One day it was found that a stranger, representing himself as a museum collector, had robbed the grave of its pottery, tomahawks, buffalo skins, and other pieces buried with the body. Several days later the tribe visited the place and came back down town in single file, with heads down in menacing manner. The townspeople were anticipating trouble from the tribe because of the pillage of the grave, but the group left in the same sullen manner with which they came.

Tepee poles of a former Indian village were still standing near Union Cemetery when the Hudsons came to Winfield. Hudson said, AA path led from there into the north side of what is now Island Park and to a pawpaw grove where the tabernacle now stands.@

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Winfield Courier, Thursday. May 6, 1875. JUDGE SHANNON, of the United States District Court of Dakota, has recently rendered a decision, that under the Territorial laws, an Indian cannot be convicted of murdering one of his kind. The question arose in a recent prosecution of two Santees for the murder of a Ponca Indian. The murderers were acquitted under the decision, and were at liberty to depart, but fearing that prowling PoncasCwho were not satisfied with the decisionCmight kill them, they were remanded to jail for protection. Much excitement prevails among the aborigines in Southern Dakota, and a battle between them in the streets of Yankton is considered imminent.

Traveler, February 21, 1877. A party of eleven Ponca Indians from Dakota Territory arrived at this place on Saturday afternoon of last week from the Kaw Agency, in charge of Agent J. Lawrence, of Dakota, Colonel E. C. Kemble, of Washington, D. C., and Rev. S. D. Hinman, of Nebraska. They came via Independence, Kansas, and visited the Osage and Kaw Agencies on their way, the whole time occupying eleven days. The Indians with them are the representative men of their tribe, and are as fine looking and intelligent red men we have seen. All are large and powerful men, and apparently intelligent. The Ponca tribe numbers 730 people, who have advanced considerably in farming and agricultural pursuits. Their reserve is in Dakota Territory, on the Missouri River. Owing to the frequency with which the grasshoppers visit them and the frequent raids of the Sioux, they have become discouraged and expressed a desire to remove to a warmer climate, remote from wild Indians, where they could live in peace, farm, and raise cattle; and for this purpose, have come to see the Indian Territory. Before arriving here they were tired out and homesick, and it is doubtful if they can be suited in a location. The old Kickapoo reserve is the choicest locality in the Territory; and if they consent to remove at all, they will probably choose it for themselves.

The names of those with the company are: Wan-ni-di-sha, Ta-tan-ka-in-agin, Tou-ani-toucan, Wich-te-el-cera, Heboka-ton-ka, Maten-lojia, Wiearay-olape, Frank Le Flesche, Xota-kaga, Xdya-u-ka-la, Chas. Le Clair.

The Ponca Indians claim to have been members of the Osage tribe many years ago, and speak nearly the same language. At their recent visit to the Agency, they claim the Osages treated them very coldly, and reported the country they were going to see as bad land, so as to discourage them from coming. The meaning of their names published above is White Eagle, Standing Buffalo, Big Elk, Long Chief, Sitting Bear, White Swan, "The Chief," Smoke Maker, Standing Bear, and Little Picker.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877. PONCA, OSAGE, PAWNEE, AND KAW INDIANS were all represented at the Central Avenue dining table one day this week.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877.

The Ponca Indians all had their photographs taken at Bonsall's yesterday, dressed in the most attractive manner. He will have a number for sale in a few days.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877.

Acting Agent Stubbs has shown us a telegram stating that Indian Inspector Kemble and a delegation of Ponca Sioux, are on their way to this place. The Osages are ordered to meet them in council, and before our next issue, big speech making will be the order of the day.

Traveler, February 21, 1877.

WM. CONNER, well known in this vicinity and the Territory as the most intelligent Osage Indian in the Territory, made us a call last week to renew acquaintances. "Bill" was on his way west, as a guide to the party of Ponca Indians inspecting the country west of the Arkansas. Since leaving this place some years ago, Wm. Conner has donned citizens' clothes and has a farm of 107 acres on the Cana River, with a number of ponies and hogs.

Traveler, February 28, 1877.

THE PONCA INDIANS at the Central Avenue last week, thinking that the Agent intended taking them to Washington, started on foot to their reservation in Dakota, at about twelve o'clock at night. The distance is probably not less than 400 miles. The Otoe Indians of Nebraska are their friends, and they expect to obtain ponies from them.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 28, 1877.

THE PONCA INDIANS that left this place last week, without the knowledge or consent of the Agent, are stopping at the Richie House in Wichita. A number of the Pawnees have gone up with ponies and pack horses to help them reach their reservation.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1877. Front Page.

Inspector E. C. Kemble, of the U. S. Indian Service, James Lawrence, U. S. Agent for the Poncas, White Eagle, Standing Buffalo, Big Elk, The Chief, Standing Bear, Smoke Maker, White Swan, Lone Chief, Hard Walker, and Little Picker, head chiefs of the Poncas, and United States Interpreter Charlie, are now stopping at the residence of Agent Beede and at the De Larue House.

They are here on a tour of inspection, having agreed to cede their Dakota lands to the government of the United States, and accept a home in this Territory where all Northern Indians will ultimately come for the preservation of their tribes and protection against encroachments by whites.

A larger framed and nobler set of men it has never been our fortune to see. Their language is strikingly similar to the Osage, many words of the same meaning being pronounced alike by both tribes. This, together with a tradition which has been transmitted from their ancestors to the present generation, makes us believe that they were once a part and parcel of the Osage Nation.

From this place they go west to the valley of the Ne-shu-tsa (Arkansas) and probably to the Chicaska River also before returning to their kindred in the north.

Their present reservation contains 96,000 acres and is located in the southeast part of the Dakota Territory, on the Missouri River, where they claim to have lived for more than one hundred years. In the rear of their Agent's residence is an old grass and tree grown fort, which they say was built by and for the protection of their ancestors from the murderous attacks of the Sioux, for whom they yet cherish no feeling save that of hatred and revenge.

The tribe now numbers 742 souls, and, notwithstanding the loss of those who fall victims to the war parties of the Northern Sioux that continue to raid upon them during spring and summer, they have slowly and steadily increased in numbers during the last six years.

We are informed by Agent Lawrence that they cultivated 600 acres last year without the aid of white labor. They have a day school with an average attendance of 75 pupils. He also informs us that scrofula and consumption are most prevalent among them, and that the word "ague" is unknown to the Poncas.

The Poncas stopping here are all dressed as citizens first, and then covered with finely beaded blankets. When at home they have substantial log cabins to live in and none of the tribe now acknowledge the lodge or wickiup as home; and when they first came on this reservation and saw the cone-like lodges of the Osages made of United States flags stretched over poles, they were disappointed in their own people.

The Poncas all have fields in which they grow corn, wheat, potatoes, pumpkins, etc. The men of this tribe do the roughest of outdoor work, and in weight and muscular strength are far above that of whites.

Some three years since, the Rev. J. Owen Dorsey, an Episcopalian Missionary, was sent to labor among these people, and at the close of the first year twenty of the tribe were admitted to church membership. They now have a neat chapel in which from 150 to 200 Poncas assemble every Sabbath and quietly listen to instructions given by May, a teacher, in the absence of an ordained minister. This is an index to the moral and intellectual condition of this tribe; but yet ignorant and evil designing people continue to proclaim the impracticability of the Peace Policy among Indians. Indian Herald.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1877.

During the years of long ago, before Episcopalian Missionaries commenced their labor of love among the Ponca Indians, the "Sun dance" was their mode of worshiping the Great Spirit.

A plot of ground was enclosed by a high wall leaning toward a still higher post, which stood in the center of the enclosure. This post was firmly planted, and from its top was suspended a half dozen lariats. The ground here was now sacred; and the preparation for worship complete.

The pious Poncas, in buckskin shirts, extending from the waist to the ankle, leaving their chest and arms to display the gaudiness of paint, then entered, formed a half circle, and were seated, facing the center post. A red stone pipe of peculiar finish was next passed from one to another, and each whiffed upward the blue curls as an invocation to the Great Spirit. After this they arose, sounded their bone whistles, and commenced dancing, when two to five of these religious devotees broke ranks and gathered at the center post, where they were joined by "medicine men" who commenced the work of "trying their souls."

This they did by making four perpendicular incisions, two parallel with each other and near each nipple. The skin between the incisions on each breast was separated from the flesh beneath it and a wooden cylinder, long enough to reach from one side of the chest to the other, was then inserted. To this piece of wood and immediately over the sternum (or breast bone) was tied a lariat suspending from the top of the post, and while the blood oozed from their wounds, they blew whistles and danced, swinging to and fro until the pieces of wood were actually torn from their bodies.

The ring dancers gazed steadily upon the sun from the commencement of the ceremony until it sank behind the grass covered hills of the west, and thus the name "Sun dance." Indian Herald.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 6, 1877.

A part of the Ponca tribe of Indians, in about 25 wagons, passed through here Wednesday en route to their new reservation in the Indian Territory. They had been 45 days on the road from Dacotah, and number nearly two hundred of all ages. The white men had charge of the party. The balance of the tribe will be along in about a month. Emporia News.

Traveler, June 13, 1877.

A government train, composed of 72 wagons, accompanied by about 170 of the Ponca tribe of Indians from Dakota Territory, on their way to the Quapaw reservation in the Indian Territory, passed through town yesterday. The balance of the tribe, numbering about 700 in all, are yet to come. The party yesterday were in charge of Col. Kimball, the inspector of Indian Agencies.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1877.

The Ponca Indians, who lately passed through this place on their way to the Indian Territory, are civilized, and have partially learned the arts of peace. In their new home they will undoubtedly progress more rapidly. In their new home the 800 Indians will have 40,000 acres of land, and will be the nearest tribe to Baxter Springs. Girard Press.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1877. Six hundred Ponca Indians have recently been located in the Indian Territory south of Baxter.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1877. [Traveler Extra.]

OSAGE AGENCY, INDIAN TERRITORY, Oct. 20, 1877.

The Osages are coming in from all quarters for enrollment and are camping all around the Agency. The beat of the drumCwhich must be heard to be appreciatedCcan be heard in all quarters, and at night their singing and whooping while gathered round the camp fire playing moccasin, or in the still wilder sport, dancing, adds to the general confusion.

A band of Ponca Indians, six by six in number, have been swapping ponies with the Osages for the last week. We did not recognize among them any member of the delegation which accompanied Inspector Kemble through here, and left him unceremoniously at Arkansas City. They say they will go west from here to Cheyenne Agency, to visit one of the present chiefs of that tribe. They claim that several years ago the Northern Cheyennes made a successful raid into their camps, and among their captives was a boy; that they had not heard of him and had given him up as dead until their arrival in the Territory, since which they have heard of his presence among the Cheyennes and his position of honor.

Seventeen hundred head of beef cattle are being held about ten miles from here for the Osages; also 500 head of stock cattle will be issued after the Indians are enrolled. More anon. Wah pemole T. M. FINNEY.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1878.

The Chetopa Herald says: The Chief of the Ponca Indians and a number of his tribe passed through here Wednesday, going west in search of a new reservation. It seems they do not like their new home near Baxter and President Hayes has promised them a new reservation. They were accompanied by their new agent, Mr. A. G. Boone.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1878. COL. BOONE, the agent of the Ponca Indians, was here last week with a dozen or more members of the tribe, who had been looking for a home in the Territory, on the Salt Fork river. There is a prospect of the tribe being located south of this place. Mr. Boone is a grand-son of old Daniel Boone, the Kentucky pioneer, and has been with Indians in the West for more than twenty-five years.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 27, 1878.

The Chetopa Herald says that the agent of the Ponca Indians, now located near Baxter Springs, has decided to remove them to a part of the Arapaho and Cheyenne reservations, south of Arkansas City. This will cause a still greater demand for dead dogs.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 10, 1878.

Poncas Not Yet Located.

C. M. Scott, Arkansas City, Kas.: I had hoped to have located in your neighborhood before this, and had ordered my mail sent to your office, but from some unknown cause in the Indian Department have not received orders for the removal of the Poncas. A. G. BOONE.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878. It is stated that Colonel Boone, who has had charge of the Ponca Indians, has been removed from the office of Indian Agent. The old Colonel has been among Indians for the past thirty years, but we suppose someone with more political friends wanted the place, and he has to go.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

THE PONCAS camped near Dean's ranch, painted their faces, donned their Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes, and visited the Pawnees last week. They had a big pow-wow.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 1, 1878. Eighteen teams crowded the streets last Sunday. Some were loaded with groceries, some with agricultural implements for S. P. Channell, and others were going to and coming from Pawnee Agency. In the afternoon a long file of Ponca Indians with pack ponies passed through town on their way north.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 15, 1878.

About three hundred and fifty Ponca Indians had a grand war dance in the streets of Chetopa, Labette county, last Saturday. They were on their way to their new reservation west of the Arkansas. They are said to be loathsome objects to look at. [Source not given.]

Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878. Included in the nominations confirmed by the Senate recently was William H. Whiteman, of Kansas, Ponca Agency, Indian Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.

GEN. McNEIL fed the starving Poncas seven days' rations last week, and has been devoting his time since to looking after their interests. A warehouse will be erected on their new reservation and provisions issued regularly. He has had a friendly talk with them, and they are better satisfied than they have been for some time, although they seem disposed not to be satisfied with anything. The party that went to Cheyenne Agency have returned with ponies, and they are not so anxious to sell as they were before they were fed.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.

An Indian snatched a "quirt," or Texas riding whip, from Jim Henderson's hand one day last week and handed him twenty-five cents. Jim took the money, well enough satisfied with the exchange, and bought a better whip. Soon after, the Indian saw the new quirt and grabbed it, handing back the old whip, but Jim refused to take it, and tried to get the other. A scuffle took place, and Jim took out his knife to make the Indian let go of the whip, threatening to cut his hand, whereupon the Indian drew a large butcher knife and made desperate threats; but Jim got both whips and gave him back his money. Strong threats were made on both sidesCthe Indian declaring that if he caught Henderson in the Territory, he'd cut his head off; but while he may catch Jim there most any day, he won't catch him without some trouble, and the matter may end as many similar border affairs haveCin someone's dying without saying his prayers. The Indian was of the Ponca tribe.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 19, 1878.

COMMISSARY.

MESSRS. SCHIFFBAUER BROS. have received the contract for building a commissary for the Ponca Indian supplies, to be located at Dean's ranch, on Salt Fork. Dimensions, 70 x 24 feet, one story. Frank Schiffbauer started to Wichita with 12 teams, on Monday last, to purchase and bring down the lumber necessary to fill their contract.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 19, 1878.

GENERAL McNEIL is still devoting his time to the hungry Ponca Indians. He will con-tract for the erection of a commissary building 24 feet wide, 70 feet long, and 12 feet high, to be erected on the Ponca reserve near Dean's ranch, about thirty miles south of this place, where about three hundred of the tribe are now located on a 35,000 acre reserve. Beef, sugar, and coffee are issued to them in amounts of about $100 per week. The Dean boys furnish the beef, and Schiffbauer Bros., the groceries. They have contracted to furnish them 10,000 pounds of flour, 1,000 pounds of coffee, and 2,000 pounds of sugar.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878. NEARLY every team in the country for the past week has been busyC"loaded for Schiffbauer," being the universal cry. That firm has been shipping lumber to Ponca Agency, and employs all the teams they can get.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878. GEN. McNEIL, Superintendent of Indian Agencies, returned from the Territory Sunday last, after an absence of eleven days. He left town for Wichita yesterday morning, for the purpose of facilitating the immediate removal of his Ponca wards to their future homes in the Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878. GEN. McNEIL has been ordered to Fort Leavenworth, to superintend the removal of the Nez Perces Indians to their future home near Baxter Springs, formerly occupied by the Ponca Indians, who are now on their way to their new agency near Dean's ranch, thirty-five miles south of this place.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878.

The commissary at Ponca Agency was completed last Thursday evening, the total cost being $1,850. The building is 24 x 70 feet, ten feet high, and contains five roomsCtwo offices, store, council room, and storeroom. The balance of this tribe, numbering some 350, arrived on the same day, and their new agent, Mr. Whiteman, is expected this week.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878. AGENT WHITEMAN, of Ponca Agency, was in town last Thursday, accompanied by Capt. Jefferson, who is sub-contractor for furnishing beef to the Indian agencies south of us. Major Hood, of Emporia, is the original contractor.

[See ATrip Through Indian Territory and Texas@ by C. M. Scott.]

Arkansas City Traveler, September 4, 1878.

Agent Whiteman and E. H. McMichael, chief clerk of the Ponca Indian Agency, were in town a few days last week. Col. Whiteman makes new friends at every visit.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 4, 1878. Col. Whiteman, agent for the Poncas, passed through here yesterday on his way to Kansas City to purchase horses for the Indian Department, to be used by the Ponca Indians on their new reservation south of here.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 18, 1878.

A very extensive prairie fire has been raging in the Territory just south of us for three days past, extending fully twenty miles in width. As Agent Whiteman was coming up from Ponca Agency, the fire flanked him and he had a race of five miles or more for his life. The heat of the flames was felt along the State line for miles, and the air was black with smoke and flying cinders. Persons traveling in the Territory should provide themselves with plenty of matches and "back fire" before the flames come on them.

Traveler, Sept. 18, 1878. Agent Whiteman will employ two Indians to carry the mails to Ponca Agency three times a week. Pawnee Agency should also be supplied.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 18, 1878. Agent Whiteman purchased two span of farm animals for the Government at Wichita last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 18, 1878.

Joseph Sherburne has been appointed trader at the Ponca Agency. Joe will soon make friends with the red men, and they will be honestly dealt with.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 25, 1878. Colonel Whiteman, agent for the Ponca Indians, left for the Territory Tuesday morning, having purchased his supplies and a number of horses for the use of the Government. The new agency is located at the junction of the Salt Fork and Great Arkansas rivers, and Colonel Whiteman says it is one of the finest and richest countries he ever saw, there being an abundance of timber and water. The agency is about eighty miles from Wichita and will get all its supplies through here. Eagle.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 25, 1878.

Agent Whiteman, Gen. McNeil, Gen. Hammond, Ed. Finney, Mr. Hartford and lady, and King Berry, all of the Territory, where here this week.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 2, 1878.

Wanted Immediately.

Wanted, at the Ponca Indian Agency, thirty-five miles south of Arkansas City, two good stone masons and three men to chop and hew timber for log houses. Reasonable wages will be paid. Apply at once. WM. H. WHITEMAN, U. S. Indian Agent.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 16, 1878. Col. Whiteman, agent for the Poncas, was in town last Monday, purchasing supplies for his wards and hiring workmen to be engaged in the erection of his residence and other necessary buildings at the Ponca Agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 16, 1878.

We are glad to state that the first lot of lumber for the repair of the south end of the Arkansas bridge was delivered on Monday lastCnot a bit too soon, however, for it was high time something was done, or travel would have been stopped. Col. Whiteman had to lead his horses over on Sunday, he not caring to run the risk of driving over.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 16, 1878.

PONCA TRADER.

J. H. Sherburne, trader at the above agency, commenced his building, 18 x 45 feet, on Monday last. He calculates to accommodate the travel on the road, and already has a good stable capable of stabling eight horses. He has engaged the services of R. A. Houghton as clerk, and if there is any trade to be done, these gentlemen will be sure to get a liberal support, as they will spare no pains to gain and keep the support of any who patronize them.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 24, 1878.

The carpenters left Monday morning for Ponca Agency, to erect a $2,500 residence for Agent Whiteman.

Carr, the long-haired Territory man from Ponca, spent several days in town this week.

Twenty teams driven by Ponca Indians were loaded with corn and oats by Schiffbauer Bros. last Friday.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1878.

Gen. McNeil was summoned at Ponca Agency last week to take the affidavits of some thirty Indians of that tribe. He left here Friday afternoon, arrived at the Agency at night, sent for his men, and had them brought in, and returned Saturday evening to this place, performing more work in ten hours than half the Government officers would in ten days. He is now making a hurried visit to his home in St. Louis, and will be back again in a few days.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 6, 1878.

The Poncas are soon to receive their last appropriation of several thousands of dollars.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 4, 1878.

Twenty new wagons passed through town last week on the way to the Ponca Agency.

The buildings at the Ponca Agency are being pushed forward. Several of our citizens are there at work.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 18, 1878.

Col. Whiteman and his accomplished wife were up from the Ponca Agency a day or two last week. The Colonel reports work at the Agency progressing very satisfactory.

The January 29, 1879, issue of Traveler reported on a visit the previous week by the following parties from Ponca Agency: R. A. Houghton, one of the traders; Joe Sherburne, who reported business was brisk at the agency; and Ed. Horn, looking hale and hearty.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 29, 1879.

We received a pleasant call last week from Mr. Batiste Barneby, of the Otoe Agency, Nebraska, and now interpreter at the Ponca Agency. Mr. Barneby informs us that a petition has been presented to the Commissioners of Indian Affairs, signed by a majority of the Otoe tribe, requesting their removal to the Territory south of this city. This will be one more feather in our cap, as they will probably receive their supplies from this point. Let the good work go on.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 5, 1879.

Arrangements are being made to put in a ferry on the Salt Fork, at Ponca Agency. This will be a boon for freighters. A number of teams that have been water-bound at the Salt Fork, and other streams in the Territory, passed through town Friday.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 5, 1879.

Schiffbauer Bros. received from the Smith Wagon Company, of Peken, Illinois, three large log wagons, made to order, for the Ponca Agency. They have also just received a car load of farming implements of all kinds.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 12, 1879.

Agent Whiteman, from the Ponca Agency, was in town on Monday.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 12, 1879.

A petition for weekly service on a small route from this place, via Ponca and Pawnee Agencies to the Sac and Fox, has been forwarded to the Department.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 12, 1879.

SEALED PROPOSALS.

SEALED proposals for furnishing one hundred and fifty milch cows will be received by the undersigned, United States Indian Agent, at the Ponca Agency, Indian Territory, on the 26th day of February, 1879. Said cows to be good, well broken domestic cattle with calves, and from two to six years old. The proposals will state the price, and time at which the bidder will deliver the said cows at this Agency. WM. H. WHITEMAN, U. S. Indian Agent.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 26, 1879. Agent Whiteman was in town last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1879.

A. A. Newman has been awarded the contract to furnish the Ponca Indians cows with young calves at $27.45 per head.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 12, 1879.

Joseph Sherburne informs us that the contract to furnish the Ponca's with cows and calves was awarded to him, and not to A. A. Newman, as published in last week's TRAVELER.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 19, 1879. We are informed that orders have been received for the erection of 60 houses for the Poncas. More work for our mechanics.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 2, 1879. Last week we made a trip to the Sac Agency, and met on our way many pleasant incidents. The first night after leaving town we stopped at the Ponca Agency where we found "the boys" of our acquaintance busy boosting the red man up the hill to civilization. Col. Whiteman was sick and we failed to meet him. Sherburne & Houghton are traders at the Ponca, and from the number of red blankets that hung on the noble sons of the forest, we conclude they are doing a good trade. Geo. Allen and Hank Nelson are drawing the brush in the schoolhouse, . . .

[Further details relative to this trip will be found in Sac and Fox Tribe account.]

Arkansas City Traveler, April 2, 1879. Capt. Jefferson, cattle contractor for Ponca Agency, has been stopping in the city a few days.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1879. A band of Poncas have held a conference with Gen. Crook, and protest against being sent south to the Indian Territory. The General said they must go, that no power this side of Washington could keep them there.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1879.

From Ponca Agency through R. A. Houghton we hear that they are expecting the return of the runaway Poncas under guard. The Poncas will do their own breaking and expect to commence right away. They have been selecting their lands.

The schoolhouse is furnished with the exception of seats, and school will commence May 1st. Agent Whiteman is going to build 60 houses for the Indians, work to commence immediately. Some sickness, fever, and ague. Let our School Misses look out for positions in the school.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1879. The school desks for the schoolhouse at the Ponca Agency passed through town Monday last.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1879.

A Government ferryboat will soon be placed on the Salt Fork at the Ponca Agency.

Seven teams loaded last week at Schiffbauer Bros. with supplies for the Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1879.

Col. Whiteman is up from the Ponca Agency.

Theron Houghton, Miss Hattie Houghton, and Mrs. R. A. Houghton made a flying visit to the Ponca Agency, returning Monday evening.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 21, 1879. Editorial Page.

Rights of Indians.

A new and curious habeas corpus case has just terminated in the U. S. Court at Omaha.

Standing Bear, with twenty-five other Indians of the Ponca tribe, had been removed to the Indian Territory against their will. They escaped and went North, were arrested by the military authorities of the United States, and are being taken back.

At Omaha the Indians sued out a writ of habeas corpus, and were brought before the United States Court. During the examination Standing Bear was allowed to address the Court on his own behalf. A correspondent of the St. Louis Republican says that "his oration was marked by its intense feeling and eloquence. It was a strange sight to see the red man in all his gorgeous attire defending himself and followers before a court of justice. Standing Bear is a man of rare ability for an Indian, and during the reading of the Court's opinion today, he was present with his handsome wife, Susette, and others of his tribe, and at the close of the reading they received their liberty and congratulations of friends with feelings of great joy."

The opinion of the Judge was exhaustive. We quote the concluding paragraph. He said:

"That Gen. Geo. Crook, the respondent, being the commander of the military department of the Platte, had the custody of the relators, under color of authority of the United States and in violation of the laws; that no rightful authority exists for the removing by force any of the relators to the Indian Territory as the respondent has been directed to do; that the Indians possess the inherent right of expatriation, as well as the more fortunate white race, and have the inalienable right to 'life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,' so long as they obey the laws and do not trespass on forbidden ground, and being restrained of liberty under color of authority of the United States, and in violation of the laws thereof, the relators must be discharged from custody, and it is so ordered."

Arkansas City Traveler, May 21, 1879.

Gen. McNiel, U. S. Indian Inspector, was at the Central Avenue Hotel over Sunday.

Joe Sherburne has returned from his long absence in purchasing Ponca cows. Joe is in luck.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1879.

Information has been received from the Contract office, P. O. Department, Washington, that they will receive bids up to July 10, 1879, for carrying the mail from Arkansas City, via Ponca Agency, Pawnee Agency, and Sac and Fox Agency to Okmulgee, 190 miles and back, twice a week. Time through, 60 hours. Blanks and other information will be furnished at the office in this city. Service to commence October 1st, 1879.

NATHAN HUGHES, P. M.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1879.

Colonel Whiteman of Ponca Agency was in town Monday.

A number of emigrantsCforty all toldCunder the leadership of Colonel Bell, Carpenter's right-hand man, who had settled near Ponca Agency, were removed by a detachment of Colonel Barret's command. They arrived here Friday evening. Bell, in company with some of the other emigrants, returned to get their stock, permission having been obtained from the commanding officer. Should they, or others who have once been removed, enter the Territory again, with a view of settlement, their wagons and utensils will be burned and their stock confiscated. Most of the emigrants are from Missouri.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1879.

On Saturday last, we started, in company with Joseph Sherburne, Esq., on a short trip into the Indian Territory. We crossed the State line at Young's Ranche, and bearing southwest reached the mouth of Bitter creek about noon. Crossing the Chikaskia just below this point, we continued our drive in the same direction, and soon found that the trail we were traveling led to the late camp of James Bell and party.

It appears that Bell took a claim on the west side of the Chikaskia, and turned a few furrows of sod under the apprehension that, as a Cherokee, he could not be removed from the soil. But one morning, not long ago, an order came from Headquarters directing the military to remove Jimmy and his party, and a notice to that effect persuaded them that it was the better part of discretion to get up and dust.

They came into Arkansas City one hot day and cooled their fevered brow in the shade of a limb of the law. In the meantime, the Cherokee authorities at Tah-le-quah have sent a protest to Washington against Bell or other Cherokees settling on lands in the Territory west of 96 degrees of longitude, claiming that the treaty gives the General Government the sovereign right to take these lands on the OutletCSixty miles in width, through to the Pan HandleCfor the use of other tribes, and wishing to act in good faith, they desire to keep them free from any encroachment on the part of their people.

If the President and the army of the United States are not all brought up into the August presence of some Kansas justice for disturbing the peace of this party, we presume the question will soon be settled.

From this camp we drove across the prairie, traveling several miles between the Chikaskia and Salt Fork. About 2 o'clock p.m. we espied an ambulance at the junction of the rivers, and driving into the timber, we met Chief Joseph and his band of Nez Perces, just crossing the Chikaskia, from the east side, to take a rest on their new Reservation. As each wagon arrived at the west bank of the river, Chief Joseph fastened a rope to the pole, and with the aid of his men, assisted the teams in pulling the leads up the hill.

The first white man we met on the ground was C. M. Scott, who had volunteered to guide the tribe to their new Reservation. Crossing the river, we met on the east side Special Agent Hayworth, also Agent Whiteman, of the Ponca Agency, who will take charge of the Nez Perces. After resting about two hours we were invited by Col. Whiteman to a seat in his ambulance, and in ten miles drive were at the Ponca Agency. Here we enjoyed the hospitality of the Colonel and his accomplished wife, for which we are greatly indebted.

We found things at the Ponca Agency in a flourishing condition. The buildings already completed are neat and substantial, while the four new cottages in course of construction will add much to the comfort of the employees. The Poncas are hard at work, building houses and making homes, and on every side we saw evidence of prosperity. On the north of the Agency a field of over one hundred acres is planted to corn, and many small fields can be seen on the Reservation.

We think that the restless spirit of the Poncas can be justly attributed to the influence of whites at their old Reservation in the North. Certainly no tribe of Indians in the Territory has a more attractive agency, and no Reservation a finer body of land.

Under the supervision of Col. Whiteman, this tribe is gaining in livestock, the habits of industry are taught, and if undisturbed, in a short time will be an independent people. Sherburne & Houghton, the traders at the Ponca, are doing a good business, and with the addition of the Nez Perces, trade will be increased considerably. The loss of the interpreter at Atchison ten days ago is seriously felt by Col. Whiteman and the Indians. We met a number of employees at the agency, several who are residents of this town. On Sunday morning we started on our return, and with the cooling influence of a northwest breeze, our trip was a pleasant one.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1879.

GRAND CELEBRATION 4TH OF JULY, 1879!

The Citizens of Arkansas City have made arrangements to give the people of Southern Kansas a grand entertainment at a grove on the banks of the Walnut near town.

One of the activities planned:

The Committee have made an arrangement with a band of PONCA Indians from the Territory to give a War Dance, Scalp Dance, and other Indian amusements.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 9, 1879.

Ponca Indian participants in the Fourth of July Celebration in Arkansas City.

It is easier to imagine their grotesque movements than to describe them, and to those who had never seen anything of the kind, it was quite a treat.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, July 23, 1879.

Joe Sherburne and Mr. Satterthwait, the clerk at Ponca Agency, spent a couple of days in the United States last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 30, 1879.

Rube Houghton took his family to Ponca agency last Saturday morning.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1879.

The Poncas and Nez Perces, numbering some twenty teams in all, who passed through town en route for Wichita some two weeks since, were in town last Monday on their way back to the agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879. Front Page.

Secretary Schurz has authorized the publication of a long and elaborate statement concerning the true condition of the Ponca Indians. It has been alleged that their removal from their reservation was accomplished by fraud, and for the benefit of a ring of speculators who coveted their lands. Mr. Schurz says, that by the treaty of 1868, this reservation, situated in Dakota, was ceded to the Sioux, who are now in actual possession of the same. This cession was the result of a blunder of a former administration, and as the Sioux insisted upon their treaty rights, a removal of the Poncas became necessary. This removal was accompanied by a combination of disasters and mishaps; but the sum of the whole matter is comprised in the statement that the Ponca Indians, on their new reservation in the Indian Territory, are prospering fairly, and are not only contented, but are on the road to civilization. This careful presentment of the case may not please the sentimentalists who have been so vociferous over the wrongs of the Poncas, but it bears the unmistakable impress of absolute truthfulness.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.

R. A. Houghton, from the Ponca Agency, spent a few days last week with the old folks.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.

MARRIED. At Salt Lake City, September 24, 1879, Mr. Joseph Sherburne, trader at Ponca Agency, Indian Territory, and Miss Gertrude Lockley, of the former place.

We received cards announcing the above a few nights ago. Joe is one of the boys of our town, always a "Hale fellow well met," and his bride graced the circles of the elite of this metropolis.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.

The Hon. Secretary of the Interior passed through town on his way to the Indian Territory on Thursday last. After visiting several Agencies, it was his object to visit the Grand Council of Indians and the Indian International Fair, at Muskogee, on the 30th of September.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.

Last Sunday or Monday while out hunting at Ponca Agency, Mr. Henry Nelson was accidentally shot in the right side of his face and body. His injuries are severe, but it is thought not fatal. No blame is attached to Mr. Gooch, who did the shooting, and who is very much shocked by the occurrence.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 22, 1879.

There will be erected at the Ponca Agency very soon a new school building, which will still further improve the Agency, and also teach the young Indian how not to shoot.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 22, 1879.

The Secretary of the Interior expressed himself highly pleased with things at Ponca Agency and seemed to think that for the amount expended a great deal had been accomplished. No better compliment could be paid their Agent.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 29, 1879.

Ed. Horn is up from the Ponca Agency to take in the sights in our city.

Mrs. Rube Houghton came up from the Ponca Agency last week and her many friends will find her at her fathers.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 5, 1879. Mr. J. H. Sherburne, post trader for the Ponca Indians, shook hands with the "boys" in this city on last Sunday and Monday.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 5, 1879.

On Saturday night and Sunday our city was rife with rumors of "heep big Injun" troubles at the Ponca Agency, which upon investigation proves to have grown out of an attempt to make an arrest. It appears that a squad of soldiers had an order to arrest an Indian for various misdemeanors, who refused to submit to the law's requirements and resisted. He was plead with, both by soldiers and prominent Indians of the tribe, but all to no purpose, and, becoming enraged, he attempted violence and was, in the melee that followed, shot by one of the soldiers. No blame is attached to anyone, and in a half hour's time everything was as quiet as if nothing had occurred.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1879.

Col. Whiteman of the Ponca Agency is in the city.

R. A. Houghton, trader at the Ponca Agency, is spending a few days with his old friends.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879. Dr. Minthorn intends to go to the Ponca Agency to reside, as he has been employed by Agent Whiteman as physician at that place.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879.

"Standing Bear," a brother of "Going Snake," the Ponca Indian who was killed at the Agency lately, is in Washington investigating the matter.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879.

"Standing Bear," the Ponca, who is taking subscription in Boston for defending the suit of his band in the Supreme Court, gets $425 for that purpose from the Society for Propagating the Gospel Among the Indians. That is not strange. The law, in the scriptural order, goes before the Gospel; and securing the protection of the one will perhaps help the propagation of the order. New York Sun.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1879. A mule train loaded with oats at R. C. Haywood's warehouse last Friday, and left for the Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1879. R. A. Houghton is in town and says that he expects to be on hand and celebrate the arrival of the cars.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1879. Miss Angie Mantor has returned from the Territory, where she has been passing a few weeks with her sister, Mrs. R. A. Houghton.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1879. A train of fifteen wagons came up from Ponca Agency Tuesday morning and loaded with corn to supply the wants of the red man.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 24, 1879.

Col. Whiteman of the Ponca Agency was in town on Monday.

U. S. Indian Inspector Pollock and Mr. Pugh from the Interior Department passed through town on Monday on their way to the Indian Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1880.

The difficulty at the Ponca Agency has resulted in Col. Whiteman retiring from the Indian service, and we presume a new agent will soon be appointed in his stead. A very bitter fight has been waged against Agent Whiteman, and he alleges that no defense has been allowed him. The charges are based on affidavits of exorbitant prices paid for supplies purchased in open market and have no connection with the charges or influence (?) of those who have been striving, since the death of "Big Snake," for the Agent's removal. Col. Whiteman is a gentleman of good address, a fine lawyer, and it has always been a wonder with us why he accepted an appointment as Agent, at a very moderate salary, while more businessmen of very common abilities have reached more lucrative places within the pale of civilization.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1880. Mrs. R. A. Houghton and Mrs. J. H. Sherburne returned to the Ponca Agency on last Friday.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1880. Mrs. Whiteman is up from the Ponca Agency to meet the Col., who is expected this evening on his return from Washington City.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1880. A small band of Indians from Nebraska passed through town last week on their way to the Ponca Agency. About four hundred are to follow in the spring and be incorporated into the Ponca tribe.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 18, 1880. Editorial Page.

Our neighbors on the south, the Poncas, are kicking up a dust before the Senate Committee at Washington that means business. They declare that they never signed treaty stipulations selling their northern reservation, and granting assent to their removal into the Indian Territory, and that all the documents they did sign were explained to them as simply expressing satisfaction with their reservation in Dakota. They now ask that redress be made them by an appropriation of $40,000 to secure them lands from the Cherokees, and we believe that their request will receive favorable consideration.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 18, 1880.

A small band of Tonkawa Indians from Texas with their chiefs, Sam. Houston, Johnston, Texas Bill, Apache John, and Bazante, were in town on Monday last, in charge of a Lieutenant, on their way to Ponca Agency, where they will be incorporated into that tribe. They were cannibals during the war of the rebellion, and freely indulged in the luxury of feasting on white men.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1880. K. F. Smith, of this place, starts today for Ponca Agency where he takes the place of Ed. Horn as government blacksmith.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1880. The cannibal chiefs from Texas returned to their happy hunting grounds last Monday. They seemed to like the appearance of their Ponca brethren, and looked upon them with more favor than they would a turkey dinner.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1880. Lieut. R. N. Getty, 22nd U. S. Infantry, of Fort Griffin, Texas, who has been here for some days past with a detachment of his command as an escort to the Tonkawa Indians, mentioned in our last issue, left on the train Monday morning to join their command at Fort Griffin. The Indians were not pleased with the Territory as a future home, remarking: "Much cold, no game."

Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1880.

While the Tonkawa braves were here, a colored man named Albert Bass, who could speak Spanish, approached them at the hotel and addressed them in the Spanish tongue, telling them he was an Indian. They readily inquired of him as to what tribe he belonged. He answered Comanche. Almost in a twinkling they nabbed him, whipped out their long knives, and were in the act of making mince meat of his carcass, saying they would cut out his heart and eat it, when the Lieutenant in charge appeared on the scene and succeeded at length in quieting the Indians. As the Comanches are the deadly enemies of the Tonkawas, they would be gratified of an opportunity to send a few of their enemies to the happy hunting grounds. Guess Bass will not relish playing Indian soon again.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 14, 1880. Agent Whiting and son passed through this city last Thursday en route for the Ponca Agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880. Major Whiting of Ponca Agency has been in town for several days on business connected with his agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880.

We had the pleasure of meeting with our old friend, J. H. Sherburne, of Ponca Agency last week, who with his wife spent several days in the city visiting relatives and friends.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 5, 1880.

Col. Whiting, of Ponca Agency, was in town last week in the interests of his charges.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880. Mrs. Lockley, of Salt Lake City, Utah, came up from Ponca Agency last Wednesday with her daughter, Mrs. Joseph Sherburne, whom she had been visiting for several days. She left for the East on Friday, purposing a visit to friends in Illinois, New York, and Canada before returning to her far western home.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880. Some time next month the Ponca Indians will have their annual sun dance. Many of our citizens witnessed this performance last June, and speak of it as highly interesting, and doubly worth a trip to the Agency. We shall let our readers know the exact time if possible, and suggest that all who can avail themselves of an opportunity of witnessing this peculiar ceremony.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880.

Col. Whiting, the gentlemanly agent of the Ponca Indians, was in town last week and in the course of conversation stated that affairs at that Agency are tranquil and the Indians all at work in good shape. The Colonel regards idleness as the main cause of the disaffection that every once in a while prevails among the aborigines, and has set himself to combat their proneness to discontent and natural love of deviltry by finding them plenty of employment.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880. We noticed several of our old friends from Ponca Agency in town last week, among them J. H. Sherburne and K. F. Smith. The latter dropped into the TRAVELER office, and indulged in quite a pleasant chat as to the time when he was one of the boys, and sighed audibly when "Dem good old times" came to his recollection. K. F. Smith is looking well and is as genial as ever. We hope the present co-partnership between him and Uncle Sam may long continue.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 26, 1880. Several of the boys started for Ponca Agency yesterday, to witness the annual sun dance of that tribe, which is to take place today.

The Sun Dance, held annually by the Ponca Indians, commenced yesterday, and will most likely be continued for two or three days.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880.

J. H. Sherburne, and wife, of Ponca Agency, are in town until Friday next.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880. The employees at Ponca Agency have not been paid since January, but their money is expected every mail.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880.

The school at Ponca Agency now has an average daily attendance of thirty, under the charge of Miss Patty, who we understand has been quite successful with the young savages.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880.

We desire to extend the thanks of "the crowd" to Mr. J. H. Sherburne and his estimable wife for the hospitalities extended to us during our recent visit to Ponca Agency. Joe's many friends will be glad to hear that he is doing well, and that his home in the Territory is so cosy that one forgets he has left civilization thirty-five miles behind him.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880.

Col. Whiting has asked permission of the Government to build a large brick building at Ponca Agency, to be used as an industrial school. In case his petition is granted, he will set off a large tract of land for a school farm. He says they can make their own brick at the Agency, and put a substantial building up at a nominal cost. The Colonel is making many improvements at this Agency, and is quite interested in his work.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 2, 1880.

[Standley & Gray, Publishers.]

THE PONCA SUN DANCE.

The Ponca Indians, whose reservation is thirty-five miles south of Arkansas City, had their annual sun dance last week. The sun dance is a religious ceremony among the tribes that observe it, and is for the purpose of testing their powers of endurance, that they may obtain favor in the eyes of the Great Spirit and enroll themselves as full-fledged braves. It is quite an event in the tribe, and generally brings large numbers of visiting Indians from neighboring tribes to witness the sublime indifference and stoicism with which their red brothers endure this self-appointed torture, while few white men will miss an opportunity of feasting their eyes upon an exhibition of barbarism unexcelled by the most God-forsake heathens of Africa.

Hearing from parties below that the Poncas would commence their dancing on Wednesday morning, and dance one day only, instead of the customary three days, several of our citizens took a leave of absence Tuesday afternoon and turned their faces toward the home of "Lo! the poor Indian, whose untutor'd mind,

Clothes him before and leaves him bare behind."

With their accustomed punctuality, the Indians did not commence dancing at the appointed time, and our anxious crowd wafted their impatience through wreaths of choice Havana smoke until Wednesday night, when we repaired to the camp, between two and three miles northeast of the Agency buildings, and saw the commencement of a performance that might last one day or three. As the Indians were apparently only working up a good "ready" for the next day's work, there was but little interest manifested, and they retired to rest about midnight.

Thursday, however, they shone forth in all their glory. When our party arrived at the camp, directly after dinner, they were in full blast. Fifty-one stalwart savages, stripped to the waist, their faces and bodies bedaubed with all the colors of the rainbow, were ranged in a half circle under a large tent. In his mouth each held a bamboo whistle about eight inches long, ornamented with an eagle feather at the further end and a wisp of grass on the end placed in the mouth; and as some eight or ten Indians beat upon a couple of large improvised raw-hide drums, with monotonous precision, the while raising their voices in the most discordant yells imaginable, the dancers jumped up and down, blowing the whistles with all the strength in them. The mothers and daughters of the tribe were gathered in groups before the tent, gazing in fondest pride and admiration upon their swarthy sons and lovers who thus proved their fidelity to the unwritten law of the Poncas.

Our readers may imagine the concord of sweet sounds in such a performance when we tell them the drums made a deafening noise, and the whistles reminded one of so many geese indulging in their peculiar melody. In his hand each Indian held a wreath of beaver skin or grass, a small looking glass or some other trinket, which he waved aloft in moments of excitement. In the course of half an hour they came out in the open air and gathered around a large pole and some fifty smaller ones, where they could go on with the dance and let their joy be unconfined. On each of the small poles was hung a banner, consisting of a blanket or a long strip of calico, which had been donated to the tribe by the dancers. Inside the "magic circle" were ten or fifteen posts with some six feet of rope hanging to them. When an Indian has become sufficiently "worked up," he comes forward and prostrates himself before two of the posts, face downward. The "Medicine Man" of the tribe then takes a knife, and raising the flesh back of each shoulder blade with one hand, he thrusts the knife through. In the holes thus made he inserts two pine pins, similar to those used by butchers in shaping a roast. The Indian then resumes his perpendicular, when a rope is fastened to each pin by means of small raw-hide strings, and the fun goes on. As soon as he is willing to donate a pony to the tribe, he is allowed to throw his weight upon the rope, and when the flesh breaks, his dance was over. The flesh may break at once, or it may resist the strain for an hour or more.

"Hinman," son of Standing Buffalo, was the first to offer himself, and bore the torture with that contempt for pain which characterizes the Indian. After he was securely tied up, seven or eight squaws approached the "Medicine Man," and had the knife run through their arms in the same manner, sending forth a doleful wail during the performance. Other braves came forward during the afternoon, some of whom varied the programme by tying the ropes to ponies, and starting around the tent pulling the ponies after them. As the animals had been purposely kept on short rations for several days, they naturally preferred to graze. Anyone who has pulled up a pony's head when he wanted to eat grass can judge of the strain upon the Indian's flesh. He would probably get about half or three-quarters around the tent before his skin broke and freed him.

As evening approached they pierced the ears of some babies and put bars of lead through the holes, and then Standing Buffalo showed them a trick worth two of any that had been performed. He bared his left side, and after having his skin cut and raised, a piece of flesh some smaller than a hickory nut was cut from his body, which he devoured with evident relish.

Our citizens returned home Friday morning, having seen all the Ponca religion they cared for. The Indians were expected to dance until some time Saturday. To further test their powers of endurance, the dancers are not allowed to eat or drink anything from the time they commence until the jig is up, but the outsiders feast. They often faint during the exercises, but are as often brought to and forced to resume. Each Indian, before he can be counted a brave, worthy the name of Ponca, must go through three sun dances, when they have fulfilled the requirements of the Great Spirit.

Many of the spectators were loud in their denunciations of this practice, and think the Government should put a stop to such a barbarous system. There is no denying that it is both barbarous and heathenish. A lot of painted devils blowing whistles at the sun, pounding and yelling at raw-hide drums, tying ropes through their skin and pulling loose, eating their own carrion flesh (which the most depraved turkey buzzard would not do), and cutting holes in their babies' ears, is a species of barbarism we might expect would have greeted the eyes of Livingstone, but scarcely look for in the midst of civilization. But, then, it is their religion, and as they hurt no one but themselves, they have our consent. So far as we are concerned, they can punch their bodies full of holes and tear themselves limb from limb. We can stand it if they can. Our only regret is that they do not make the mistake the Dutchman did when he cut off the dog's tail, and cut their fool heads off.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 9, 1880. Messrs. Howard, Rexford & Howard, the enterprising proprietors of the "Nimble Nickel Hardware Store," shipped two wagon loads of hardware to Ponca Agency last week for the use of the Indians.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 16, 1880. Mrs. Eddy has been making a visit of several days to Ponca Agency, the guest of Mrs. J. H. Sherburne.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 16, 1880.

Some thirty Cheyennes have been visiting the Ponca Indians during the past week. The two hundred Otoes, who left their northern reservation, were also at this Agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 16, 1880. Agent Whiting and clerk, A. R. Satterthwaite, of Ponca Agency, were in town yesterday, accompanied by Miss Patty, the teacher of the Indian school at that place, and Mrs. K. F. Smith.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 16, 1880. The money has been received and the employees at Ponca Agency will be paid off this week. As they are two payments behind, they will know how to appreciate a fresh invoice of Uncle Sam's notes.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 23, 1880.

Mr. John Gooch, of the Ponca Agency, was in town the first of this week, looking after his interests in and around our city, visiting relatives, etc.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 23, 1880.

J. H. Sherburne brought his sister, Mrs. Eddy, from Ponca Agency last Sunday, returning on the same day. They are having a payment in the land of the Poncas now, and Joe is too busy raking in wealth to admit of his stopping any time in the State.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 30, 1880.

Stacy Matlack and Dr. Chapel are taking in Pawnee Agency this week.

J. H. Sherburne, of Ponca, came up last Monday and went to Kansas City yesterday.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 30, 1880. The two hundred runaway Otoes, who have been hanging around Ponca Agency, have left for Pawnee. The agents have instructions not to furnish them any provisions, but let them starve it out. In all probability, if the Government wanted them in this country, you couldn't hire an Otoe to come within a hundred miles of the Indian Territory. They are notorious for doing anything but what you want them to do.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880. The Poncas will soon pay a visit to the Pawnees.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880. The Poncas are mad at the description of their sun dance because the performance was denounced as heathenish and brutal.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880.

The Ponca Indians are on the make. They will readily accept any number of ponies from other tribes, but they never have any to give away. Nothing like having an eye for business.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880. Quite a number of Kaw Indians paid a visit to the Poncas last week for the purpose of having a feast and dance. They were well received by the Agent, with whom they were very favorably impressed.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880. Miss Patty, who has been teaching the school at Ponca Agency, contemplates leaving this week for her home in Kansas. Her success has been good, but we understand she desires a permanent change, and will not return to the Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880.

One of our citizens sent a copy of the TRAVELER containing the account of the Ponca sun dance to an eastern paper, requesting the editor to publish the same, that his people might know something of Indian habits. The editor, however, thought it was too disgusting for publication, and said as much. Such a thin-skinned blue-blood would, we warrant, be one of the first to give five dollars to some canting hypocrite who claimed to be collecting money for the relief of the suffering Indians. You and some of your folks had better come out here and learn a thing or two about the country, and you won't be so easily astonished.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880.

We had desired to give an account of all the picnics and celebrations from Saturday to Monday, but not being clothed with the robes of ubiquity, we could only be one place at a time. That place was Ponca Agency, where, as one of the "select four," we spent the half of Saturday and Sunday, taking advantage of Mr. and Mrs. Sherburne's hospitality. Our party is gambling on having had the toniest and best Fourth in the county, besides giving Ponca Agency its first exhibition of fire works.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 14, 1880. A number of the elite, among whom were Mr. and Mrs. Newman, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. McLaughlin, Mr. and Mrs. O. P. Houghton, Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Gooch, and Mrs. Wheeler, went to Ponca Agency yesterday. The trip was in honor of Mrs. Wheeler, now visiting in this city.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 21, 1880.

Tuesday of last week was a field day for Arkansas City in the matter of Indians. There were representatives of ten different tribes in our city on that day: Osage, Kaw, Ponca, Nez Perce, Pawnee, Cheyenne, Arapahoe, Wichita, Kiowa, and Comanche.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 28, 1880.

Col. Whiting, of Ponca Agency, was in town Monday, and incidentally stated that he wished to purchase several yoke of work oxen and some mares for his Indians.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 4, 1880.

Joe Sherburne, of Ponca, was in civilization a day or two last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 4, 1880.

A NICE TIME.

There was a dance at the house of Mr. Kreps on the Kimmel place, some five miles west of town, on Tuesday night of last week, which resulted in rather a serious fight. It seems that a young man by the name of Blackman was floor manager, and he objected to one of the Conaway boys dancing, he having come on the floor when his number was not called. Conaway, however, insisted on dancing, probably relying upon his ability to "bluff it through," inasmuch as Blackman was a considerably smaller man. But the little man had no idea of being run over in any such style, and in his endeavors to impress upon the mind of Mr. Conaway the fact that he must conduct himself properly and take his chances the same as any other man in the room, they became involved in a personal struggle for the mastery.

They tumbled around until they got out of doors, where Blackman, though much the smaller man, succeeded in pounding his opponent pretty severely about the face and eyes, and generally getting away with him, realizing which young Conaway drew a large pocket knife and commenced cutting at Blackman. The point to the principal blade in this knife had been sharpened after the fashion of a dagger, and the wounds, some ten in number, were some of them quite severe. By this time the crowd interfered, and separated the combatants, Blackman bleeding profusely from the wounds inflicted by the knife. It is stated that after they were separated, and Blackman was being held by several of the crowd, Conaway drew a revolver and struck Blackman over the forehead and eyes with the butt of the revolver; which, if true, was a most cowardly trick.

Dr. Alexander was called out to attend Mr. Blackman early Wednesday morning, and though suffering considerably at that time, he now reports the wounded man as progressing finely.

The trial was held before one of the justices of Bolton Township Monday, with what result we have not yet learned.

The sympathies of the community, so far as we can gather, are with Blackman, who, as floor manager, had the right to rule Conaway from the floor, when he was attempting to dance out of his number. Conaway has a desire to be regarded as a local terror, whose presence shall inspire such fear that his actions shall go unquestioned. Like all bullies, he stumbled over a man who was too much for him, and who, if left alone, would have given him a rather severe lesson.

LATER. Just before going to press we learn that Esquire Linton bound Conaway over to court in the sum of $1,200. An effort was made to give bond, but proved futile, upon which Billy Gray took him in charge with the intention of escorting him to Winfield. As Billy was getting a drink at the well, Conaway made an excuse to go around the house, and as soon as he was out of sight, he jumped on a horse and struck out for the Territory at full speed. Several parties started in pursuit, but he kept the lead for ten or twelve miles, and bid fair to elude his pursuers. About this time, however, he was sighted by Col. Whiting, who was coming up from Ponca Agency, and who seeing him skulking through the ravines, and suspicioning all was not right, rode up, and bringing a Sharp's rifle to bear upon him, requested him to stop. He stopped. In a few minutes his pursuers came up, hand-cuffed him, and brought him back to the State. He was taken to Winfield yesterday, where he will have time to cool off.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 4, 1880. People who are fond of representing that the Ponca Indians are dying off rapidly are requested to note the fact that during the past eight months only five have died at this Agency, which includes the Nez Perces also. As the two tribes number about nine hundred, we agree with Dr. Minthorn, the Agency physician, that the rate of mortality compares favorably with that of any city in the Union.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1880. J. Gooch, of Ponca Agency, came up Monday evening to load the Ponca and Oakland teams, and returned this morning.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1880.

Last Sunday an accident happened at Ponca Agency to Agent Whiting while out driving with his wife and Mr. and Mrs. Martin. The horses became frightened, and one line breaking at the time, the carriage was overturned and its occupants all more or less injured, but Mr. Whiting the most severely. Later accounts state that no serious results will accrue from the above, which will be good news to the Agent's many friends here.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880.

Col. Whiting and other Poncaites are in town.

The engine for the new mill at Ponca Agency is side-tracked at this place, having arrived last Thursday. It is a forty-horse power, but of very old pattern, and not at all what was expected.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880. Agent Whiting has succeeded in obtaining the appropriation of $10,000, with which to build an industrial school at Ponca Agency, and he is now busy making preparations for the same. The timber bottom near "the spring" is thoroughly cleaned out, and arrangements are about perfected by which all the brick needed will be made. We congratulate our Ponca friends on their rapid strides toward civilization.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 22, 1880. Col. Whiting and eldest son, of Ponca Agency, spent a couple of days in civilization last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 13, 1880.

Joe Sherburne came up from Ponca last Friday and took the train for Topeka on Saturday.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 13, 1880.

While Col. Whiting was coming up from Ponca Agency last Sunday morning, he started up thirteen black tailed deer, but for the first time since he has been agent, he was without any firearms, and had the pleasure of seeing them go leisurely on their way.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 20, 1880.

LAYING THE CORNERSTONE AT PONCA SCHOOL BUILDING.

An invitation, dated October 13, 1880, comes to us from Col. Whiting, the gentlemanly agent of the Poncas, to attend the laying of the cornerstone of the new school building at Ponca Agency on Friday, October 22. The agency folks have been making extensive preparations for this affair, and efforts have been made to obtain speakers from abroad. We are certain that all who attend will feel fully paid for their trip. The following is the programme of the day.

Prayer by Rev. S. B. Fleming, Chaplain.

Song.

Laying the Cornerstone, by Capt. G. Wiley Martin.

Song.

Addresses by Capt. G. Wiley Martin and others.

Address to the Nez Perces by Mr. James Reuben.

Address to the Poncas by Standing Buffalo.

Song.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1880.

BIG DOINGS AT PONCA AGENCY.

The 22nd of October, 1880, will be long remembered by the people of Ponca Agency, Indians and whites, and those of us who were fortunate enough to be present and take part in the events of the dayCa day set apart for laying the cornerstone of the industrial school building at Ponca Agency, Indian Territory.

A goodly number of ladies and gentlemen from Arkansas City, Pawnee Agency, and other places, who had been courteously invited by the agent, Col. Whiting, arrived the evening before, and had been Ataken in@ by their hospitable friends.

From early dawn wagon loads of bright-looking Nez Perces from Oakland, about fifteen miles west of Ponca, came rolling in. Quite a large number of the men and boys were well and comfortably dressed in citizens= clothingCtheir hair cut short, and having all the appearance of steady, well-to-do farmers going to church. Their wives and daughters were more gaily dressed, but their bright-colored poohaneen, or shawl, and their red or blue tawk-a-muth, or head handkerchiefs, were arranged with remarkably good taste, giving them a tidy, cheerful appearance that was quite picturesque and pleasant to look at. The balance of the men seemed to cling to their scarlet or blue blankets, gay trappings, long hair, earrings, paint, and other peculiarities of savage life inherited from their forefathers. Ponca horsemen from distant parts of the reservation came dashing over the hills on their fleet ponies, their bright-colored trappings glittering in the morning sun, while little groups of three or four came straggling in from the tepees and houses in the distance. Near the corral some Ponca men and women were busy cutting up two beeves that had been slaughtered for the occasion, and in fact everything around the Agency betokened the advent of something unusualCthe shadowy forerunner of some coming event.

About 10 o=clock we walked out to the site of the school building, and found Col. Whiting busy superintending the preliminary arrangements. Leaving the workmen, he took us along the solid foundation wall, pointing out the different apartmentsCthe reception rooms, the recitation rooms, the dormitories, the culinary department, etc., showing by his manner that the important work he is so zealously engaged in is to him truly a Alabor of love.@ About 11 o=clock the Nez Perce procession was seen advancing toward us, everyone admiring their orderly manner and attractive appearance as they took their position in front of the rear. The Poncas followed and arranged themselves on the north side, also presenting a very respectable appearance. The chiefs of both tribes were seated side by side on seats prepared on the platform, the pipe of peace being handed from mouth to mouth during the ceremony. Behind them was an organ with Miss Kate Whiting as organist, and some ladies and gentlemen of the Agency as choristers.

Mr. James Reuben, interpreter for the Nez PercesChimself a full-blooded Nez Perce, and by the by, an exceedingly intelligent Christian gentlemanCstood in front of his people, whilst Mr. Esaw, interpreter for the Poncas, took a position in front of the assembled chiefs, each interpreting to his people the several addresses as they were delivered.

Everything being ready, Col. Whiting made an appropriate address, followed by Rev. S. B. Fleming, of Arkansas City, who led in prayer. After the dedication hymn by the choir, Capt. Martin stepped forward and delivered an eloquent address suitable to the occasion. Another hymn from the choir, and then came the laying of the cornerstone.

Before doing so, however, Col. Whiting held up a large tin box, containing many articles that will be of interest to those who, in future generations, may find them in their resting place, and be curiously wondered over as mementoes of those old-fashioned folks who lived Aa thousand years ago.@ The box was then carefully deposited in its Alittle bed,@ hewn out of solid rock, the cornerstone (well bedded in mortar) placed over it by Col. Whiting, the trowel handed back to the master mechanic with instructions to use every diligence in carrying on the good work, and the cornerstone of the industrial school was laid, amid the hearty wishes of all present that it may prove an abundant blessing to the Indians around us, and that from its walls many educated Christian Indians may go forth to be in their time a blessing to their people and an element of strength to the land of their birth.

The Nez Perces were requested to sing one of our Sabbath school hymns in their own language, which they did with considerable vim, all standing upCyoung and old all seeming to join in with hearty good will.

Several gentlemen were then called upon for addresses, among them Maj. Bowman, agent of the Pawnees, Mr. Reuben, and Tom Hill.

This article is perhaps already too long, but we cannot close without giving a synopsis of them, that of Tom Hill being in many respects the most remarkable we ever heard. Mr. Reuben was listened to with marked attention. He told us how the Nez Perces before us came down here in an almost savage condition, and how so many of them had embraced Christianity, and were earnestly striving to walk in the good path; that this had all been done without the assistance of white men, but that their hearts yearned for the sympathy of their white brethren, and in a few manly words asked for the prayers of all good men that they may all be brought out of the woods of ignorance into the glorious light of the sun of righteousness. He was too modest to say, what is well known by many of us, that much of this change is owing to his own earnest missionary labor among this interesting people.

Tom Hill commenced (in the Nez Perce tongue) by sketching his early life, when he roved as a young Indian in the wilds of the far northwest, trained in all the traditions, barbarous customs, and superstitions of his fathers. He traced his life up to manhoodChis having been taken prisoner and sent away down here, far from the mountains of his boyhood and the graves of his loved ones; how his heart was very bitter within him, but that, through the talk of Christian friends, he had been brought to see things in a different light, and that now he saw no chance for the Indian only by doing as he had doneCadopting not only the white man=s religion, but his dress, education, and habits. His manner was not only eloquent and impassioned, but deeply imbued with a heart-felt earnestness that blanched his cheek and glowed in his dark eyes that flashed like coals of living fire. He fairly took us by surprise, and as he spoke, warm words of applause and clapping of hands showed how deeply he had moved the hearts of his audience.

After another hymn from the Nez Perces, in English, Mr. Fleming pronounced the benediction, and we all left, feeling that we had been amply rewarded for having come so far, and wishing great prosperity to Ponca Agency and all the good friends who had so kindly entertained us. J. W.

The following comprises a list of the articles deposited in the box at the laying of the cornerstone.

Standing Buffalo: One knife case.

Hairy Bear: One necklace.

Big Bull: one necklace.

White Eagle: One Sioux scalp and a war whistle. (The scalp was taken by Little Bear, and the Sioux was killed by Joseph Esaw.)

Child Chief: Pair of moccasins.

Little Swift: Silver ring made in 1865.

Makes Crier: Necklace and ring.

Jesse Beard: Buffalo-hair lariat rope.

Three Eagles (Nez Perce): Finger ring.

Red Wolf: String of beads.

Feathers-Around-Neck: Bear's-claw bracelet.

Alexander Waters (Nez Perce): A necklace of bear claws.

Jim Horn (Nez Perce): Feather ornament worn in time of battle.

Jay Gould (Nez Perce): Pair of horns worn on a war hat.

Yellow Bull (Nez Perce): Head war ornament.

Aw-tas-poo (Nez Perce): Necklace.

Red Elk (Nez Perce): Necklace.

Daniel Jefferson: One necklace and two finger rings.

James Porter: Bracelet of beads.

John Hill: Bracelet.

Tom Hill: Two elk teeth.

Samuel Fleming (Nez Perce): Two finger rings.

White Owl: One shell ear-ring.

By Nez Perce women: 5 basques, 2 bonnets, 1 horn spoon, 19 bracelets, 21 finger rings, 8 necklaces, 7 elk teeth, 1 eagle feather, and specimen of root from Idaho [called kous or koits?] by the Indians.

Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce put in one finger ring.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1880.

On the first page of this issue is a graphic description of the exercises at Ponca Agency, recently, at the laying of the cornerstone for the industrial school at that place, together with a list of articles deposited therein. Our readers are indebted to the facile pen of our townsman, Mr. James Wilson, for this entertaining account of the doings at Ponca.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1880.

The articles deposited in the cornerstone of the Industrial school at Ponca Agency were valued above five hundred dollars, that sum being offered for the box and its contents.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1880. The case of the United States against Wm. H. Whiteman, formerly agent of the Ponca Indians, is called at Fort Smith, Arkansas, this month. The witnesses from Ponca left last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1880. If there is a man in the Indian service who understands managing an Indian Agency, that man is Col. Whiting, of the Ponca and Nez Perce Agencies. He superintends building the new school house, makes his own brick, burns his own lime, and in fact furnishes everything except the pine lumber and nails. Another fact worthy of note, and in this business an item of considerable importance, he is well liked by all the Indians and white people of the Agencies.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1880. Hunting is all the rage now. Last Monday morning a party of six started out, consisting of Eugene Eddy and nephew, Mr. Charles Crosswell, son of ex-Governor Crosswell of Michigan, R. A. Houghton, Frank Speers, Charley Howard, and Mr. Worthley, a brother-in-law of the Howard boys visiting them from Maine. They will be joined at Ponca Agency by Joe Sherburne and Mr. George Reed, a relative of Mr. Sherburne who arrived from the land of Platisted [?] last Friday--the entire party expecting to return Saturday night. May good luck attend them.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1880. We are pleased to learn of the appointment of Miss Fannie Skinner, of East Bolton, to the charge of the school at the Ponca Agency, whither she goes in about two weeks. The schools are lucky in obtaining the services of Miss Skinner, who is one of our brightest social ornaments, as well as a teacher of experience and a young lady of acknowledged ability and varied attainments.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 17, 1880. Mrs. Kendall Smith, of Ponca Agency, has been visiting friends in this city during the past week.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1880. Editorial Page.

THE PONCA INDIAN CASE.

Omaha, Nebraska, December 4, 1880. Judge Dundy in the United States Circuit this morning decided in the Ponca Indian caseCto recover their old reservation and establish a title theretoCthat the Ponca tribe of Indians have legal estate in the reservation, and are entitled to possession thereto.

This case is the first on record where one Indian brought suit against another in the courts of the United States, and has aroused deep and wide-spread feeling on account of the wrong done the Poncas.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1880.

Lieut. Mason, in command of Company H, 4th cavalry, is now camped in the city, waiting the arrival of Captain Payne and his great invading army. Caldwell Post, 2nd.

It was one of Mason's men who shot Big Snake during Whiteman's administration at Ponca Agency, in the fall of 1879. Mason is a good officer, a man of courage, and will carry out instructions to the letter. Added to this he is one of the most gentlemanly officers it was ever our pleasure to meet. From the above paper we learn that fifty head of cavalry horses were shipped over the Santa Fe road to Caldwell last week, for the use of Company H.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1880.

Mrs. J. H. Sherburne, of Ponca Agency, is in town visiting relatives and friends.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880. White Eagle, Standing Buffalo, Black Crow, White Swan, Harry Bear, Big Chief, Big Soldier, Child Chief, Red Leaf, and one other gentleman whose name we could not make out, registered at the City Hotel last Saturday.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880. Mr. Frisbee and wife, of Ponca Agency, were in the city last Saturday. We did not envy them their delightful ride of thirty-five miles through the beautiful snow on their return home Sunday morning.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880.

When the Ponca Indians started for Washington from this city last week, the wife of Big Snake, who was killed something over a year ago, was determined to accompany them as far as Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where her son is attending school, and was with difficulty persuaded to stay at home. She had walked from Ponca Agency for this purpose: a distance of thirty-five miles. Big Snake was second chief of the tribe, and stood at the head of a large band of Poncas, and his relict now wants her son and heir to return and assume the leadership left vacant by the death of her noble spouse. She is a powerful woman, and when "on the rampage," has been known to defy the strength of two or three men.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 5, 1881. Col. Whiting, with the ten Ponca chiefs who have been visiting Washington, returned last Monday.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 5, 1881.

The committee appointed to investigate affairs at Ponca Agency, and ascertain the truth concerning the charges made by the notorious E. H. Tibbles throughout the East, arrived yesterday noon, and were immediately conveyed to Ponca. The party consists of Gen. George Crook, Gen. Nelson A. Miles, U. L. Roberts, John G. Bourke, E. L. Higgins, of the U. S. Army; Wm. Stickney, of the Interior Department; Walter Allen, special correspondent of the Boston Advertiser, J. Owen Dorsey, Washington, and Special Indian Inspector Haworth. It has begun to dawn upon the Boston philanthropists that their pet, Tibbles, was a fraud, and was only making capital out of their gullibility.

THE PONCA TRIBE.

Washington, Dec. 27. The Ponca Indian chiefs today had another long interview with Secretary Schurz at the Interior Department. Standing Buffalo and White Eagle were the principal spokesmen, and in making known their wants they seemed anxious about the schoolhouses and educational facilities for their children. Secretary Schurz informed them a schoolhouse is being built at the reservation, and would be rushed to completion as rapidly as possible. He also informed them he hoped the pending Indian severalty bill would be passed during the present session of Congress, and that as soon as it became a law each one of them would be given a farm, the title to which would be as valid as that of a white man's.

At the conclusion of the speeches, and after some explanations by Secretary Schurz, the ten chiefs signed the paper that they had requested be drawn up, in which they declared their desire to remain on the lands now occupied by the Poncas in the Indian Territory, and to establish permanent homes there, and also expressed their willingness to relinquish all their right and interest in all lands formerly owned or occupied by the Ponca tribe in the state of Nebraska and Territory of Dakota. In compensation for land as well as for personal property at the time of their removal to the Indian Territory in 1877, and for depredations committed upon them by the Sioux Indians, they ask Congress to appropriate the sum of $148,000. The same sum was asked for in the bill submitted by the Indian department two years ago.

After enumerating some purposes for which they desire to have this sum expended or invested, the paper closes as follows:

"We declare this to be an expression of our free will and desire, as well as that of our people at present residing on the Ponca reservation in the Indian Territory, and we ask that this declaration and request be submitted to the Congress of the United States for its favorable consideration and action."

The papers bear the signatures of the Ponca chiefs present, and the certificates of the interpreters.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881. Editorial Page.

THE PONCAS.

Washington, Jan. 26. The commission, consisting of Gens. Crook and Miles, Mr. Wm. Stickney, of the District of Columbia, and Mr. Walter Adams, of Massachusetts, appointed by the President December 18th to make a fresh investigation of the Ponca question, has submitted its report, in which they gently condemn the removal of these Indians from Dakota as illegal and inhuman. They attribute the recent abandonment of the idea of return by the Indians to a belief that the government would not sustain them in their title to their lands in Dakota, and as their head men have agreed to stay they regard it as a solemn compact, but those who have returned earnestly desire to stay in Dakota and Nebraska.

The commission believes that action by the government toward making amends for the wrongs to these Indians would have a salutary effect on all the Indians by impressing them with the good faith of the government.

They, therefore, recommend an allotment of 160 acres of land to each man and child of the tribe to be located at the option of each, in Dakota or Indian Territory. That they are not to be subjected to lien, taxation, or encumbrance for thirty years, Also, until such time hereafter as the President may remove such restrictions that the government continues the appropriation of $53,000 per annum for five years at least, and that $25,000 be exempted for agricultural implements for the Dakota branch, and $20,000 to be divided among the others, as payment in full for Sioux depredations and the losses by removal; also that there be an appropriation of the further sums of $5,000 for dwelling houses and $5,000 for schoolhouses for the Dakota Poncas.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881.

Washington, Jan. 28. Some members of the Ponca commission will be examined before the Senate Ponca committee tomorrow, and Secretary Schurz will take occasion to cross-examine them. The Secretary will publish a reply to the late report of the commission.

Washington, Jan. 29. Senator Dawes today said two of the Boston Ponca commission were before the Senate committee to emphasize their late report. Unexpectedly Secretary Schurz appeared, having in his possession a transcript of the evidence taken in the Indian Territory. This was found to contradict the report recently submitted, so sharply, that Mr. Stickney, one of the commissioners, revoked his signature. The regular press tonight gives the results of the examination.

---

It would seem that the Boston Ponca committee made two reportsCor rather dressed up the actual testimony to suit the high-strung Boston philanthropist. Secretary Schurz has set out to stop their little game. So long as the Government persists in delegating the Indian business to men who have about as clear an idea of an Indian as a cow has of a musket, just so long will there be continual warfare on this subject. Give us a western man for Secretary of the Interior and a western man for commissioner.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881. Page Four.

THE PONCA INDIANS.

Messrs. Editors: Did the Ponca Indians ever have the option of going back to Dakota, or remaining in the Indian Territory where they now are? Certainly, not. White Eagle, the head chief, before he signed the paper declaring his willingness to remain in the Indian Territory, said to the Secretary: "For three years I fought against you in mind. I wished to go home to my own land, but it is impossible to get ahead of you."

This is a part of the evidence taken at the recent hearing in Washington, which the Indian Department has not included in its dispatches sent all over the country. Secondly: the President, at the urgent request of the Boston committee, sent the commissioners to the Poncas at home to ascertain their views and wishes, and not Secretary Schurz, for he claims to already know them. H.

We hope soon to have the report of these Commissioners, and then to know the precise facts in the case. New York Observer.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 9, 1881. Business Notices.

CATTLE FOR SALE.

250 head of northern Texas stock cattle coming 2 and 3 years old; about half steers, balance heifers and young cows. Address soon, Whiting and Hollenbeck, Ponca, Indian Territory.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 16, 1881. Front Page.

The Ponca case has become of wider importance than the mere question of the right or wrong or the removal of those Indians, and involves a matter of personal issue between the Secretary of the Interior, Senators, and other persons of high place. It is valuable outside of these, as an illustration of the patch-work policy of the Government in dealing with the Indian question. That policy has been to maintain the Indian as far as it can in his aboriginal condition. The reservation plan has only been an Indian museum where, under the watchful guardianship of a few, the Indian has maintained his nomadic habits, his paint, feathers, and idleness, at the expense of the Government. The industrious Indian has been discouraged by legislation, that allowed him to be swindled and plundered out of his own industry, while the idle vagabond has been fed, pampered, and petted as the original owner of the soul. That is the fact in a nutshell. Kansas City Journal.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 23, 1881. Editorial Page.

THE PONCA INDIANS TO GET JUSTICE.

Those who hear Mr. A. B. Meacham, who has twice, at intervals, lectured in Bristol upon the wrongs of the Indians, will be rejoiced to know that the wrongs of the Ponca Indians, who were so unjustly deprived of their lands in Dakota, and one of their head chiefs, Big Snake, brutally shot by a cowardly officer of the Interior Department, are in a fair way of having justice done them.

The above is taken from the Gazette, published in Bristol, Pennsylvania. Friend Thomas, the able editor of the above journal, like a great majority of Eastern men, has lent a kindly ear to the misguided philanthropists who have made the agitation of the Ponca question their chief occupation for the past few years, and is very much wrought up in consequence thereof. It has cost several thousand dollars to satisfy the public respecting the truth or falsity of the charges made by Messrs. Meacham, Tibbles & Co., and beyond the personal gratification of the curiosity of those who fancied themselves equally interested in Ponca affairs, nothing has been accomplished.

The same line of policy toward these Indians is still pursuedCthat of gradually but surely fitting them to become citizens of the United States. The Government may be to all intents and purposes an individual in this case, but it has not shown that personal vindictiveness toward the Poncas of which it is accused by the over-zealous philanthropists in Boston and elsewhere. On the contrary, the officials have shown every willingness to hear the wrongs of this tribe, and to make the best reparation possible.

It is probably a work of philanthropy with Mr. Meacham; but philanthropy quite often lacks the very essential element of common sense; and whenever confessedly good men advocate measures of questionable wisdom, they should be resisted as firmly as those whose motives are not quite so apparent.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 23, 1881. Col. Whiting and J. H. Sherburne of Ponca Agency spent several days of the past week in the city.

Major Haworth, U. S. Indian Inspector, has been in the city for several days, but is now at Ponca Agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 16, 1881. Col. Whiting and John E. Gooch, of Ponca Agency, came up from the Nation yesterday, and are now in town.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 30, 1881.

The Winfield Telegram of last week, under the heading of "An Example To Be Followed," published an item to the effect that Miss Fannie Skinner, teacher at Ponca Agency, had died of heart disease. It is untrue in every respect, this lady being quite well at this writing, and pursuing her usual routine of school duties. Correspondents in sending such items for publication should ascertain their truth beyond doubt before sending, by which they would save a great deal of suffering to friends of the parties interested. We take pleasure in correcting this statement as Miss Skinner is well known all over this county, and the report caused many of her friends and acquaintances much mental distress.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 6, 1881.

Dr. Minthorn, of Ponca Agency, was in town from Friday till Sunday of last week.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 13, 1881. Our old friend, Kendall F. Smith, of Ponca Agency, is in town shaking hands with his many friends.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 20, 1881. J. H. Sherburne, of Ponca Agency, was on our streets last week, looking after the needs of his business.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 4, 1881. DIED. It is with regret that we have to announce the death, on Monday last, May 2nd, at 9 a.m., of Kittie Amelia Whiting, daughter of Agent Whiting, at Ponca Agency, Indian Territory. The deceased was born at Altoona, Illinois, Nov. 23rd, 1864, thus being but fifteen years old when called to answer that inevitable summons, that sooner or later will come to all.

The funeral will be preached at the White Church today, at 3 p.m., and the remains will be deposited in the cemetery until fall, when they will most probably be taken East for final interment.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 11, 1881.

DIED. At the residence of her father, Col. Wm. Whiting, of Ponca Agency, Indian Territory, on Monday morning, May 2nd, 1881, Miss Kittie Whiting, aged sixteen years, five months, and seven days. It is with feelings of peculiar sadness we record the death of this estimable young ladyCcut down by the ruthless hand, "of the fell destroyer, in the first bloom of young womanhood." Blessed with a robust and seemingly vigorous constitution, and, until her health began to fail some six months ago, no one had greater prospect of a happy future than she. . . .

A large concourse of people assembled in the First Presbyterian Church, at half past 2, last Wednesday afternoon, where appropriate funeral services were heldCaddresses being made by Revs. Laverty, Swarts, and FlemingCafter which the remains were interred, for the present, in the cemetery near this city.

In behalf of Col. Whiting and his bereaved family, and at his special request, their heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation of the kindness and sympathy of all who assisted and were present at the funeral services is heartily expressed and extended. S. B. F.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 11, 1881.

We received a pleasant call from Mr. I. J. Frisbie, of Ponca Agency, one day last week.

Cowley County Courant, December 29, 1881. Col. Maus and sons, of Winfield, have completed the brick work of the Industrial school building at Ponca Agency, Indian Territory, and are driving the carpenter work to completion as fast as possible.

Winfield Courier, July 6, 1882. Messrs. Yellow Bull, chief of the Nez Perces, and White Eagle, chief of the Poncas, addressed the people at the Arkansas City celebration Tuesday. Yellow Bull made a very good speech, detailing the wrongs which the government had heaped upon his people by removing them from Idaho, where there was good water and good game, for this hot southern country. He is a fine-looking Indian and quite intelligent. White Eagle is a fat, hearty-looking chap, and said he didn=t have any desire to go on the war-path, but would be content with extra rations of beef and dog meat.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 8, 1885.

A visit to the Ponca Agency shows matters progressing there with customary quiet. The Indians number 586, and many of them are now busy preparing their farms for summer crops. The patches of winter wheat seem to have sustained but slight injury, and present indications favor the expectation of a fair yield. During our brief stay at the Agency, Chief Joseph came in from the Nez Perces camp with his wife. The once haughty chief maintains his intelligent look and robust proportions, but his adoption of white men=s ways is evidently a humiliation, and he still holds to the aboriginal belief that he and his people have been deprived of their former homes by pale face usurpation. When questioned as to the impending removal of himself and followers to the great Northwest, he merely remarked that it would have been more reasonable in Washington to have first consulted the Nez Perces in the selection of a future home. Chief Joseph is a man of solid sense, but the rapid spread of the white race over the hereditary hunting grounds of the red man evidently confuses him, and he is unable to keep up with the march of events. The fate of poor Lo is a sad one, but like Napoleon at Marengo, when informed of the death of Dessaix, we have not time to weep for him.

Cos. F and L, of the 2nd U. S. Infantry, are still stationed at the Ponca Agency. The command is under charge of Capt. Clark, of Company F; the other officers are Lieuts. Rice and Root, and Assistant Surgeon McCaw. The force consists of 100 men, all told, sixty of whom are in camp; thirty others are picketed at neighboring points, and the remainder are on detailed duty. Private Gray deserted during our stay at the Agency, carrying with him his musket and accouterments, he also took a watch borrowed from a comrade. He has been three years in the service, but bears rather a hard name. Should he be arrested, he stands a good chance of serving several years in the military prison at Fort Leavenworth. The compound is remarkably healthy, and officers and men express satisfaction with their pleasant location. Returning, we called at the cavalry camp at Chilocco, and received a cordial greeting from Captain Rucker, Lieuts. Hughes and Parker, and some others. The force is stationed on a fine piece of meadow land, affording ample room for drill and other evolutions, and the whole camp is as neat as a pin.

The school enrollment is sixty; 36 boys and 24 girls; their ages ranging from 5 years to 25. The adult pupils are 7 in number. There are 26 other scholars in the Lawrence school, 18 in the school at Chilocco, and one at Carlisle, making 105 attending school in all. The young people of school age number 129; but a portion of these are engaged in farm work. Mr. and Mrs. Holmes have charge of the Ponca school as principal and matron respectively, the assistant teacher is Miss Ellis. The duty of administering this school is faithfully performed; the sanitary condition of the inmates being well looked after, and their studies diligently prosecuted.

We regret to record the death of little Belle Pollock (notice of which is published elsewhere in our columns), an exceptionally bright child, the light of the household, and beloved by all at the Agency. She was a long and patient sufferer, and when this promising human bud finally closed her eyes in death, a gloom was spread over all who had witnessed her sweet young life. The body was laid to rest in a meadow contiguous to the dwelling-house, and the last sad rites were participated in by a large number of sorrowing friends and neighbors. The presence of a group of stalwart Osage braves gave picturesqueness to the solemn scene.

Agent Scott and the government employees keep busy in promoting the well being of their dusky charge, and Joe Sherburne, the popular trader, has his customary number of irons in the fire, but by his address and celerity keeps all from burning. F. L.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 15, 1885. Ponca Agency.

Ponca Agency has been well represented in town the past week. Joe Sherburne, the trader, put in an appearance on Thursday, accompanied by his boss herder, Geo. Reed, and a cowboy, to remove a bunch of cattle that have been wintering on Murphy=s ranch. Kendall F. Smith, the blacksmith at Ponca, also came in with the party, to look after the dwelling house he is building on Central Avenue, which he proposes moving into as soon as it is finished. J. W. French, carpenter at the same agency, spent a day or two in town on a similar errand. We understand there is to be a general exodus of the government employees from Ponca, the agent, Dr. Scott, being among the retiring party, and hence their interest in the building improvements of this city.