hh ^' II M' ' ' •i ' -J f f 1 ' kI* «f si ^ S jE j ^ i^!nlfi;i J |jK . f ~ ^ ;C^ 1 . j 1; a V J X X '' ' - ii ^ t' < n^ffi' ,~^" % ,0 o x\^' '^^ ^,. Ci ^. v- ,. ^ '^ .-^ V .^' s^'-*; ^ / JSVIL AND MILITARY ma ©"if (DIBIT OP ANDREW JACKSON, LATE MAJOR-GENERAL IN THE ARMY OF THE UNITED STATES, AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE SOUTHERN DIVISIONo A Chief in all the ways of battle skill'd, Great in the council — mighty in the field : By whom the ftow'r of Britain, in full martial bloom, ^ In battle's rage seat headlong to the tomb. BY AN AMERICAN OFFICER, NEW-YORK: PUBLISHED BY P. M. DAYIS, 1825. \ W \i^'~i^ Southern District of jVew- York, ss. Be it remembered, That on the 10th day of June, A.D. 1825, , > in the 49th year of the Ipdependence of the United States I L. S. I of America, P. M. Davis, of ttie said District, bath dtpqs- « ' ited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as proprietor, in the words following, to wit : " Civil and Military History of Andrew Jackson, late Major-Gcne- ral in the Army of the United States, and Commander-in-Chief of the Southern Division. A Chief in all the ways of battle Fkill'd, Great in the council, mighty in the field : By whom the flow'r of Britain, in fuH martial bloom, In battle's rage sent headio'ig to the tomb. By an American Officer." In conformity to the .Act of Congress of the United States, entitled '' An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the t.me (herein mentioned." .And also to an Act, en- titled " An Act, supplementary to an Act, entitled an Act for the en- couragement of learning, by securing tlie copies of mpps, charts, and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies^ duriiig the times therein mentioJied, and extending the benefits thereof to ibc arts of designing, engraving, and etching hi^toiicai and other prints." JAME^^ DILL, Clerk of the Southern District of JVeiv-York, «i * JViAY t- TO THE READER. The high estimation in which General Andrew Jackson is hehi by his countrymen, was the in- ducement to present them with this volume. Since his name became conspicuous in the service of his country, the author and publisher has carefully sought for the most authentic information relative to his origin, and progress from humble life to his exalted station. The facts relative to his parentage, his birth, education, and early pursuits, were derived from a source the most correct, and of absolute veracity. And one thing is most certain, that when time shall have defaced monuments of brass and marble, his name will be handed down to posterity, and an ad- miring world will say, he was a successful defender >V TO THE READER, of the rights and privileges of the only free gov- eminent on earth ; and the citizens of New-Orleans may truly say- Maidens fair, and Matrons grave, These thy conquering arms did save : Raise for him triumphal bowers ; Strew, ye fair, his way with flowers^ Strew our hero's way with flowers JsrexC'York, May . - p 42 CHAT^o IV. €!eo. .Jackson and Tennessee Volunteers — Importance of the river Mississippi- — Mr. Vlo r(,c's soiicitude for the security of it, and the WosUj-n -tates — Volunteers rendezvous at Nashville, Tenn — de- scend the Ohio and Mississippi- -encamp at Natchez — Order for their discharge, from Mr. Armstrong — disobeyed by Gen. Jack- son—Volunteers return to Tennessee, and are discharged- Appro- bation of the government. - - - - - p. 53 GHAP. V. Approbation and censure of Gen. Jackson — implacable hostility cf savages increased by British and Spanish emissaries, and British ravages -Indian massacre of garrison, women and children, at Fort Mimins — Expedition fiom Tennessee against Creeks prepar- ed — Gen. Jackson assumes the command — Colonel Coffee — differ- ence between Mi. ilia, Volunteers, and l^egular Troops — General Jackson pioceeds to the frontiers — prepares fo; active service — Deficiency of provisions — Col. Dyer destroys Littafiitchcs — First victory over the Greeks at Tallushatchcs — Gen. Coffee's report oi it to Gen. Jackson. ------- p. 62 CHAP. vr. Tennessee forces — Collisions in armies—Establishment at Foit Stro- ther — Perilous situation of friendly' Creeks — Despatch to Genera! White — his conduct— Battle of Talladega — Gen. Jackson's ac- count of it. - - - - - - - - P' 80 CHAP. VII. Consequences of Hrig Gen, White's conduct — Hillabccs sue for peace to Gen. J.ickson — Gen. White destroys tlscir towns — Measures of the Georgia Legislature — Victory at Autoussee — Brig G eOXTENTS.. Til CHAP. VIIT, Gen. Jackson's situation at the conamencement of 1814 — bis hopes revive — Victory at Eccanacbacf,, or Holy Ground — Witherford, the Indian Prophet — Col. Carroll joins Gen. Jackson — Victories at Emuckfaw, Jan. 22d — at Enotachopco, the 24th— Gen. Jackson's official report of them — Applause bestowed upon soldiers. p. lOS CHAP. IX. Gen Jackson prepares for a new expedition — receive* an account of the victory at Chatahouchee — adopts a ntw mode to obtain sup- plies — Army Contractors — Energetic measures — Great victory at Tohopeka — Savage warfare — British and Sjianish emissaries p. 125 CHAP. X Conclasion of the Creek war — Return of Gen. Jackson and Volun- teers — their reception and separation — Gen. Jackson is appointed Brigadier-General in U» S. army — also a Commissioner to treat with Creek Indians — concludes a treaty — Foreign emissaries — In- dian eloquence — Speech of Witherford — of Big Warrior — of Te- cumseh, and his death. - - - - •'« - p. 139^ CHAP. XI. Spanish aggressions and perfidy — Gen. Jackson's measures to detect Manrequez, the Governor of Florida — his letter to him — Danger of the 7th Military district — Gen. Jackson's appeal to the govern- jnent — Mr. Monroe's measures of defence — Attack upon Fort Bow- ver— gallant defence of Major Lawrence — his otEcia! report of it. p. 167 CHAP. XII. Gen. Jackson is appointed Maj. Gen, in U. S. army— Fort Bowyer— its Importance, and its danger — Gen Jackson determines to re- duce Pensacola — Arrival of Gen. Coffee with Tennessee Volunteers and Mississippi Dragoons — Capture of Pensacola — Gen. Jackson's account of it — Destruction of the Barancas — He returns to Mo- bile— Col. Nicoll's proclamation — Remark. - - p. 176 CHAP. XIII. Geaera! Jackson's arrival at New-Orleans— perilous situation of that Viii CONTENTS. place — reliance upon distant forces — his address to the people oi Louisiana — timidity of the legislature — evidence of disafftction, and traitorous conduct — Declaration of Martial Law — Measures of defence — Arrival of reinforcements — Landing of the enemy — Bat- tle of the 23d December— Official report of it. - p. 190 CHAP. XIV. Benevolent eyertions of the Ladies of Ncw-Orlcans — Gen. Jackson selects the. final position of his army — Loss of the naval force — Capt. Patterson — Lieut. Jones — Harmony between land and naval forces— 'Defence at the mouth of the Mississippi — American lines on the east and west side of the river descrihed — Battle of the 28th December — of the 1st January — Attempts upon the left wing of the American army. - - - - - - - p. 210 CHAP. XV. Gen. Jackson's and Sir Edward Pakenham's armies from the Isl to the 8th January — Gen Morgan's lines — Battle of the 8tb Janua- ry —Gen. Jackson's report of it- Gen Morgan's retreat — General Jackson's address to the armies — he regains the right bank of the Mississippi — Bombardment, and attack upon Fort St. Philips — Maj. Overton's report to Gen. Jackson - - - - p. 224 CHAP. XVL Situation of the armies after the battle of the 8th January — Melan- choly and distressing scene — Operations at the mouth of the Mis- sissippi—Departure of the enemy — Gen. Jackson's address to the American troops — Disparity in the loss of the two armies, p. 243 CHAP. XVII. Gen. Jackson appoints a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise, for the vic- tories obtained, and for the preservation of the city, upon the 23d January — Doct. Dubourg's Address — the General's answer — con- tinues his exertions to render the country more secure — surrender of Fort Bowyer -peace proclaimed — discharge of troops — General Jackson's address to them— Remark. - - - p. 258 CHAP. XVIII. Recapitulation of facts relative to the proclamation of Martial Law, CONTENTS. IX writ of habeas eorpuSy Louaillier, and Jadge WaM~- Arrest of Gen, Jackson — his defence, conviction, and fine — Trial by jury— Popular feeling — Moderation of Geo. Jackson — he advises to a sacred re- gard for civii power. - - - - - - p 270 CHAP. XIX. Gen. Jackson retires from New-Orleans — arrives at Nashville, his place of residence — Reflection — He receives a message to repair to the seat of government, to assist in arranging the Peace Estab- lishment of the U. S.army — Difficulty of that duty — Votes of thanks^ &c. to Gen. Jackson — He repairs to the seat of government — Ci- vilities received upon his passage, and on his arrival — Returns to his head-quarters at Nashville, and in 1816, repairs to New-Or- leans, and arranges the army. - - - - p. 286 CHAP. XX. Gen. Jackson negociatcs a treaty for the extinguishment of Indian titles to land — Issues au order relative to this subject — Receives a sliver vase from the Ladies of South-Carolina, &c.^ — Returns to Nashville — Issues an important general order — Prepares to defend his Division -Commencement of Seminole War — Gen Gaines at- tacks the Seminoles — Gen Jackson addresses the *' Tennessee Volunteers" — repairs to Georgia — and enters with his army into Florida — Justification of that measure — Hecaptujes St. Marks. p. 297 CHAP. XXL Oen. Jackson at Fort St Marks, Florida — captures and executes Francis the Prophet, and an Indian Chi^f— at the same place, takes Arbuthnotand Ambrister — details a general court-maitial for their tiial -Trial of Arbi.thnot and Ambrisier — Remark — Gen. Jackson marches for Pensacola — captures it — appoints Col. King to the command of it, and retires to Nashville, Tenn, - p» 315 CONCLUSION. lacidents of Gen. Jackson's life — his character«, - - p. 354 INTRODUCTION. Adoption of American Constitution— Pursuits of Americans — Dimi- nution of Military ardour— Declaration of War — Militia — Volun- teers — Regular Troops — Andrew Jackson. From the concliision of the war for American In- dependence, to the commencement of that war which secured it, the Americans were almost whol- ly diverted from the study of military tactics, and no opportunity had occurred to call into operation the military science acquired in the revolutionary struggle. The mild arts of peace were substituted for Uie ruthless carnage of war; and a rising people, who had severed the ligament that hound them to an European monarch, commenced the enjoyment of self-government. To organize a Republic, consisting of a confede- racy of a number of distinct governments, having different, and in some respects contending interests, was a task which required, and called forth the sci- ence and the energies of the first statesmen which the world had produced. Upon the conclusion of that war, the i)eopIe of 12 li^TRODtJCTION. the American Republic, as it regarded a form oi government, were " in a state of nnture.^* Desti- tute of a government of their own making, they had before them the lights of antiquity, and the practical knowledge of modern ages. With the scrutinizing research of statesmen, and the calm deliberation of philosophers they proceeded to es- tablish a constitution of Civil Government, as the supreme law of the land. The establishment of this constitution is, perhaps, without a parallel in the history of the civilize d world. It v\as not the iinresisttd mandate of asuccesslul usurper, nor was it a government imposed upon the people by a vic- torious army. It was digested by profound states- men, who aimed to secure ail the rights of the people who had acquired them, by their toil, their courage, and their patriotism. They aimed also to give to the government, sulhcient energy to com- mand respect. To ihQ people of the American Republic, a Con- stitution was presented for ?A<2> deliberation, and for their adoption. It was adopted, not with en- tire unanimity, but by a majority of the people, sufficiently respectable to give its operation a promising commencement. The people, having emancipated themselves from the pouer of a British monarch — having successfully resisted his lords and his commons, looked with jealousy upon those who were called to the exercise of the pow- inthoductiox. 18 ©1' ulucli tliey had themselves delegatetl to their own countrymen. The excellency of the constitu- tion was tested by the practical application of its principles ; and the patriotism and integrity of all the early officers who derived their power from it, were acknowledged by their admiring countrymen. The people, having witnessed the establishment cf a republican government, of their own choice, re- lapsed from the energetic character of republican soldiers, to the more gentle ones, of agriculturalists, merchants and mechanics. JgricuUurallsts found a capacious field for the exercise of their pursuits in the widely extended and fertile regions of the Republic. Land specula- tion became the business of the few, who had ade- quate fund§, and the conversion of the wilderness into fertile fields, the pursuit of those who had in- dustry and enterprise. The Merchants found a world before them as the theatre upon which ^/^t-zV energies were to be exert- ed. Eujoying peace with all nations, whilf other nations were contending with ^ach other for domin- ion or wealth, the merchants of the Republic became the carriers for the commercial world. Into their cmpioy they drew thousands of their countrymen, .and soon rendered the American States the second nation in the world, in point of commercial cowst- quence. Manufacturers began to struirgle for the rank B 14 INTRODUCTION. which they hold in many of the countries in the old world. It was long an ineffectual struggle. — But as the " restrictive sr/stem''* was deemed necessary from the unceasing encroachments of European gov- ernments upon the commercial rights of America, they rapidly advanced in wealth, and gave employ to a numerous class of citizens. These three great objects of pursuit, embraced the whole American people, if we except those of the learned professions. These employments were all calculated to divert attention from military tactics, and to confine it rather to the accumoJation of wealth, than to the advancement of national glory, by military achievements. In addition to this, the very nature of the American Constitution, was cal- culated to repress military ardour, beinjij more cal- culated to make happy citizens^ than renowned sol- diers. The surviving patriots of the revolution were following each other in rapid succession to the tomb, and the rising youth of America were seldom aroused to patriotism by the tales of the revolution- ary contest. Sudden wealth was the result of the exertions of the different classes of Americans. The voluptu- ousness and effeminacy, usually attendants upon the possession of it, were rapidly diminishing that exalt- ed sense of national glory, for which the SaxoiiSy the ancient stock from which Americans and English- men trace their origin, were always celebrated. i INTRODUCTION. 15 As the collisions between the American Republic, and the British empire, began to assume an hostile SLsp^cti frequent 7iegociations were commenced, and as often terminated in widening the breach between the two governments. The murder of Pierce, by order of a British naval officer, although from the tranquillized and almost paraJized state of public feeling, it did not excite the same indignation as the massacre of Boston citi- zens, by British troops, before the revolutionary war, yet it was no less an outrage upon humanity and national dignity, than that barbarous deed. The constant impressment of American seamen, although in its character a less sanguinary violation of national and individual rights, was a more widely extended injury. " The social body is oppressed, when one of its members is oppressed." That na- tion can hardly be said to be independent, who will acquiesce in an injury committed upon one cf itS citizens by another nation. It was an aphorism of the great Hollander, De Witt — '« That no independ' ent nation ovght tamelij to submit to a breach of equity and justice, from another, however tmcqual the pon- crs.''^ Although an injury to individuals, is m in- jury to the nation; yet in the attack upon the Ches- apeake, a national vessel, the national dignity was directly insulted. To impress seamen from an U. S, frigate, belonging to an infant navy, whose gal- * History of Holland, 10 INTRODUCTION". Jantry in the Mediterranean, had excited the admi- ration and even the jealousy of Nelson, produced a ferment in the American Republic which could ne- ver subside until ample reparation was obtained. The orders in Council—new and unauthorised principles of blockade, and an invasion of the rii^hts of neutrals, added to the other injuries mentioned, and to which might be added many more, compel- led the great council of the Republic to resort to measures more efficient ih.d.i\ noiwintercourse^embar' cfocs and negociatlons» Facts will justify the assertion, that upon the momentous question whether War or Submission should be resorted to by America, the American people were divided in opinion ; and this division of opinion was ascertained by a knowledge of the two great political parties in the Republic. The Republican party exclaimed, with an ancient Ro- man, " Our voice is still for IFar." The Federal party, with another Roman, exclaimed, " Our thoughts, we must confess, are turned to Peace. '^ The justice, necessity, or expediency of the second war between the American Republic and the King- dom of Great-Britain, cannot be discussed in this place ; and it might be deemed arrogance to at- tempt it at all, at this period of time. The autho- rities who aione had power ^Ho declare War,''' made the declaration; and to the American people wcpg INTRODUCTIOIT. 17 they responsible for the great and important meas- ure. It may not be inapposite to remark in this place, that a sijstematic opposition to government is un- known in every part of the civilized world, except- ing in America and in England. This does not arise from any deficiency of national feeling : for no two nations on earth are more devoted to national glory than Americans and Englishmen ; but it arises from that jealousy which intelligence and an exalted sense of liberty always produce in the ^ot'^r/?^^^ towards their governors. Having one common origin, but no longer any common interest, let the citizens of the American Republic, and the subjects of the British Monarch, judge for themselves which gov- ernment most consults the happiness of the people, and upon which side of the Atlantic the greatest freedom is enjoyed. Until the declaration of the last war, the energy of the American constitution had never been tested. Under its benign influence the people had suddenly arisen from infancy to manhood — from vassalage to freedom — from national penury to national wealth. Its provisions were found abundantly adequate for the government of a great and growing people in a stale of peace. The jealousy or the fears of the framers of this inimitable compact, had restricted the militarTj power. It permitted the Captain-Gen- eral of the militia of the United Stated, after proper 18 INTRODUCTION". ~ advice, to call them into action, to ^^ execute t Fit' laws of the Ujiion — suppress insurrections — and re' pel invasions ;" and even this limited power be- came the subject of animated discussion. At the commencement of the war, we had no* thing that gave any idea oid, Standing Annjj. Six thousand troops dispersed over a country, half that number of miles in length and in width, presented nothing but the fractured skeleton of an army. The American militia^ although perhaps the best in the world, were organized by the different states ; from the different state governments derived their au- thority, and had different attachments and diff'er- ent interests. An hundred thousand of them were drafted by the national authority to hold themselves in readiness to take the field at a moment's warning. But the history of modern tactics shows that the trade of war is not learned in a moment. Fifty thousanon<:/f^— between a single and a double equation. His studies were as diver- sified as the suggestions of his inclination ; and he ventured to explore those regions of literature to which his native genius pointed out the avenues. Such a course of study would never have made him a popular tutor in an university ; but it was^ calculated to m.ake him ^general, if not a particu- lar scholar. He continued his literary pursuits un- 32 JIIEMOIRS OF til he arrived at the age of eighteen. Finding his patrimony diminished, from expenditures of it, he relinquished his intentions of entering an university. At the same time he relinquished his intentions, if he ever had any, of entering into " holy orders." It was the wish of his deceased mother, that he might liecome a minister of the gospel ; but. he was fully avrare that if he had been consecrated to that sacred profession, it would have rendered it incom- patible with his duties, to avenge, with his sword, the injuries he and his family had sustained from it. Andrew Jackson was brought into existence to dis- charge other duties than those which belong to the Eacred profession; and although the church may regret that he had not brought his splendid talents into its divine service ; (he state and the army may ])oth acknowledge the services he has rendered them, not only with gratitude, but with admira- tiom ANDREW JACKSON, S3 CHAPTER II. iucidcDts of early life — of Andrew Jackson'g— He commences and completes the study of law — Patriotism of American lawyers — He commences the practice of law, and emigrates to the South-West Territory — is appointed Attorney-General — member of the Tennes- see Convention — a Representative in Congress — a Senator in Con- gress—a Judge of the Supreme Court in Tennessee, and retires to private life. In the preceding chapter, the reader has been made acquainted with the origin of Andrew Jack- son — his early pursuits, and the most interesting in- cidents cf his juvenile years. It has been frequently remarked, and always with truth, that those who have distinguished themselves in the science of war, have discovered the bias of the mind to the profes» sion of arms in the early stages of life. The bi- ographies of the great military and naval characters of Europe, furnish numerous instances of the truth of this remark. At seventeen, Bonaparte^ a cadet in the military academy, in resentment of an allront, thrust his sword into a balloon, ready to ascend for the gratification of Louis XVI, whose throne he af- terwards occupied. Nelson^ at a still earlier period of life, encountend a bear upon the frozen ocean. So unhappily (deficient are fbe biographical sketch- es of American worthiesj that the present generation Z4 aiEMoms ot know little of the gigantic statesmen and heroes who lived in the last. The truth of the remark is estab- lished as it relates to Washington and Putnam* The first, in early life, discovered the cool and regu- lated courage of a great commander ; and the last, at twelve, when visiting Boston for the first time, encountered and conquered an enemy doiil)]t hm age and size. He also in youth ** carried the ring''^ at gymnastic exercises, and destroyed a wolf in hrs den, at the hazard of his own life. The incident mentioned of Jackson, is evincive of his whole char- acter — he resisted the exercise of unauthorised power in a British officer, and demanded justice for himself and his fellow prisoners. When it is con- sidered that the power of the British army was at that time irresistible— that the tories were nume- rous — that they violated all the rules of civilized warfare, and that Jackson was less than fourteen years of age, and subject to all their cruelty anc! ferocity, his firmness excites admiration. In irsi, he commenced the study of law under the instruction and direction of Spruce iSVCatj, Esq. at Salisbury, North-Carolina. It is but justice ^o the profession of law, to remark, that among its members in America and England, have always been found the most energetic advocates of the rights of the people. As a corrupt ministry have encroached upon the constitutional rights of the l^eople, English and Irish advocates have thrown a AjrbnEW JACKSON. So shield before the designated victims of niinisterial vengeance, and persuaded juries to save their fel- low men from Botany Bay and the gibbet. The names of Erskine and Gibbs are dear io English- men — Curran and Grattan to Irishmen. At the commencement of the revolution, the members of the American bar, almost without ex- ception, arranged themselves upon the side of their country; and by their examples, as well as their eloquence, aroused the sacred flame of patriotism in the bosoms of their oppressed countrymen. Their conduct drew from the eloquent Burke, one of his finest encomiums, in the British house of commons. To their honour let it be said, that at the com- mencement of the last war, which secured the inde- pendence acquired by the army of the revolution, "they again espoused the cause of the Republic* They not only thundered defiance to our inveterate enemy in the Senate, but many placed themselves in the embattled ranks of their countrymen. A number of them fell victims to their courage, whose memories will for ever be cherished ^ — a number of them still survive, and still grace the army of the Kepublic. A Jackson, a Macomb, a Gaines, a Scott, and a Ripley, will not suffer by a compari- son with the first soldiers in the universe, and it is believed they were all members of the bar when they entered the army. Mr. Jackson completed the study of the law with John Stokes, Esquire, and t>6 McaioiRS or was licensed as a practitioner in 1786. He'present- ed himself at the bar at an age when most students commence the study of law. The part of the coun* try in which he was situated, afforded but a slender prosprvt of success; but while it prevented liim from enjoying the profits of the practice, it enabled him to become more familiar with the tkeori/ of the law. In 178S, the course of emigration was from the Atlantic states to the waters of the Mississippi. The present state of Tennessee was then a territorial gov- ernment of the United States, called the South-We&t Territonj, having been recently organized by Con- gress. The climate was salubrious, the soil was fer- tile, and it was rapidly emerging from a wilderness state, to a state of civilization Mr. Jackson, with that spirit of adventure which is in him a striking characteristic, resolved to leave a country which offered but few inducements to detain him in it. The honourable Judge AVNr-inj was appointed judge of this territory in ITSS, and was accompani- ed by Mr. Jackson to Nashville, at which place they arrived in October of that year, when the firsi su- preme court was holdcn. He here found himself among a people entirely different in manners, cus- toms, and habits, from those he had recently left. In the older 'states, where one generation of inhabit- ants have followed anothf^'- in regular succession, there are always some distinguishing characteristics ANDREW JACKSON. 6i in the whole population. But in the new states, the traveller of observation can hardly discover any es- tablished character in the people, but that of energy and j>ersonal independence. In those parts of the Ilepuhlic which have been settled for two centuries, a family, a monied, or a landed aristocracy, can al« Ways be discovered. The many become subjeerv ient to the (ew^ and subju2;ate tht^ir minds to those who by wealth or power, have obtained the ascendancy over them. In such a state of society, an insulated beisg, like Andrew Jackson, without the influence of friends to aid him, or without funds to procure them, can hardly hope, with the most gigantic pow- ers, to place himself in eligi!)!e circumstances. Far otherwise is the case in the new states. Drawn to- gether from diiferent sections of our extensive coun- try, from motives of interest, of power, or of fame, each individual may almost be said to make a pro- vince by himself. In such a situation, the most en- ergetic character becomes the object of the greatest popular favour. In this sphere was Jackson exactly calculated to move. Without any extrinsic advan- tages to promote his advancement, he had to rely solely upon intrinsic worth and decision of character, to enable him to rise rapidly with a rapidly rising people. The place of his nativity could not be recollected witliout the most distressing association of ideas. His whole family, excepting his father, who may be D 38 MEM0IRS OF said to have died a natural death, there fell victims to the ruthless barbarity of the British soldiery, who carried on an unnatural war against their o\v n coun- trymen, in their own colonies. The attachment to homCi which may be said to constitute a part of our nature, must have been alienated from the bo- som of Jackson. In the Waxsaw seMleriient, S.C. he had his birth — there he was a sad spectator of the extinction of his whole family; and there he all but lost his own life. To him, the plain of Waxsaiv^ with all its charms, must have been as cheerless as that of Golgotha to the ancients. He commenced the practice of law in the South- West Territory, at the age of little more than twen- ty-one years; and although the district contained many aspiring young men who had already emigra- ted there to share the honours of the new govern- ment, and the profits of business, Mr. Jaclson soon rendered himself distinguished among those who were " themselves conspicuous there.^^ The unyielding integrity of his character, and his unceasing attention to business, soon introduced him to the notice of the government; and he was appointed Attorney-General of the territory. This office he continued to sustain, with great reputation to himself, and with essential advantage to the dig- nified and impartial administration of justice for many years. Al^DREW JACKSON. S9 In 1796, the South- West Territory was admitted as a sovereign and independent state into the Ameri- can Union, by the name of the State of Tennessee ; being the sixteenth star that was added to the American Constellation. The citizens were called upon to exercise the first great act of self-govern- ment-— that of forming a constitution as the su- preme Jaw of the state. Mr. Jackson was chosen a member of the convention called to discharge this iiuportant duty. Although he had become known to the most distinguished citizens of the country, his exertions in this convention, brought him into more universal notice, by the laborious part he took in the. interesting discussions upon this momentous subject. The course of his studies had previously led him to investigate minutely the subject of gov- ernment, from the earliest ages down to the close of the eighteenth century. With the rise, progress and termination of the ancient Republics, he had made himself familiarly acquainted. He had wit- nessed the operation of the American Constitution, and those of the diiTerent states, for a number of years. With a ruind thus prepared to meet the im- portant discussion, he took the lead in the debates upon the dfiTerent articles of the proposed constitu- tion. To those who are acquainted with the consti- tution of the state of Tennessee, it will be seen with what precision the Legislative, the Executive, and Judiciary powers are designated — with what care :tO ilEMOlRS OF the civil rights of the people are secured — and with what unlimited freedom the rights of conscience may be enjoyed. The people of Tennessee, as a mark of the confi- dence they placed in Mr. Jackson, elected him their first representative in the Congress of the United States. He was a new member of the national le- gislature, and was surrounded by a body of states- men who have scarcely been equalled, and certainly never have been excelled, since the adoption of the American Constitution. If, owing to that modesty N\hich is always a concomitant vrith real greatness, he did not immediately shine, his coustituenis, the next year, (1797",) raised him to the high and re- sponsible station of a Senator of Congress. It was during: his congressional life, that the two great po- litical parties of the Republic were in array against each other. He was a Republican; and of course in the minority. Although no man ever more cheer» fully submitted to authority when properly exerci- sed, yet he never could be brought to be a minor actor in the plots of political intrigue — ^and to be a leader in political machinations, his habits and prin- ciples rendered him totally unqualified. He resign- ed his seat in the senate iii ITOQ, and returned to Tennessee, with the government of which he had now become identified. He was now called upon to discharge the duties of an important office under the constitution aad AN'DJIEW JACKSON. 41 laws of the state, in the establishment of which he had taken so important a part. In 1799, he was appointed a judge of the supreme court. This appointment was bestowed upon him without his knowledge, contrary to his wishes, and very much opposed to his inclination. After discharging the duties of it for a short period, he resigned it, and retired to his delightful real estate upon the banks of the Cumberland river, where for a number of years he enjoyed, in the bosom of his family, that domestic felicity which is always produced by at- tachment for private w^orth, mingled with respect for dignity of character. From the citizens with whom he was located, he invariably received every demonstration of respectful attachment, and grateful acknowledgment, which a people in the enjoyment of temporal felicity, usually bestow upon the bene- factor who had secured it for them. In Mr. Jack- son, although he had scarcely reached the middle age of life, the people recognized a political father, who had ever discovered more solicitude for their political rights, and individual happiness, than for his own emolument or aggrandizeraenta D 2 4:2 WEMOins Of^ CHAPTER III. Mr. Jackson's career in civil life — Commencement of his military ca» reer — Major-General of Tennessee Militia — Militia forces — Ameri- can Savages — Reason for their liatied and vengeance against Anglo- Americans — Religious fanaticism among them — The Prophet Fran- cis^ and his brother Tecumseh — Effect of their assumed divinity — Tender of Gen. Jackson, and his Volunteers, to the Government of tbe United States, At the close of the last chapter, the reader found the subject of these memoii-s in a situation, above all others the best calculated for the enjoyment of tem- poral felicity — with an estate abundantly competent, without being so overgrown as to excite solicitude — in a family circle, where every aifectionate sentiment was cordially reciprocated, and surrounded by ex- tensive acquaintances, who loved him for his affa- bility, respected him for his dignity, and venerated him for his exalted patriotism. Hitherto the attention of Mr. Jackson had been almost exclusively confined to the pursuits of civit life. Although the duties of it are oftentimes ardu- ous, and the difficulties sometimes inextricable, yet he had moved through it with incalculable benefit to his country, and with undivided approbation to himself. The history of our country scarcely affords an instance of an individual, who has, so early in ANDREW JACKSON^. 43 life, been called to fill so many important offices in such rapid succession. At twenty-two, attorney- general of a district — at twenty-nine, member of converiSIn to form a constitution — at the same age, a representative in congress — at thirty, a senator in congress, and at thirty-two a judge of the supreme court of an independent state. Thus far in life, Mr. Jackson had reaped a rich reward for his devotion to his country, in the ap- plause bestowed upon him by his countrymen. Had he been disposed to have lived in his delightful re- tirement, and to have been a spectator of the suffer- ings his fellow-citizens were called to endure from a Christian and a savage foe, he would indeed have ended his days without the splendid glory which if? «o;y attached to his name; yet he would have also escaped from the acrimonious censure and illiberal abuse of those who envy him his reputation, and vainly endeavour to rob him of his hard earned fame. However brilliant has been the career of Mr. Jackson in civil life, it is almost forgotten by the renown he has acquired by military achievements. To the great mass of his countrymen, he is known onl^ as a distinguished military character. It wilt be the object of the remaining part of this work to present the reader with a view of his military career. The same year that the state of Tenaessce was 4^ MEMOIRS OF admitted into the Union, (ITOG,) Mr. Jackson was appointed major-general of the militia of that state. As the whole of its militia was then embraced in one division, Gen. Jackson was the actual c|i|imand- er in chief of the whole military force of the state; as it is unusual for the governors of the states, who are ^.r-q^c/^, captain-generals, to command in per- son. But for many years before the commencement of the last war, the command of a major-general was rather nominal than r^a/ — a whole division be- ing seldom called out together. But upon Gen. Jackson the people depended for an efficient organi- zation of their military force. Without derogating at all from the high repu- tation of the militia of the American Republic, pro- bably the most efficient in the world, the history of our country will justify the renmrk, that it is a spe- cies of force that cannot be relied upon, excepting in sudden emergencies. In the revolutionary war,, notnithstanding the imperfections of their organi- zation, they certainly aided essentially in establish- ing our independence. But how often, during that portentous period, was the Commander in Chief, and other commanders, left with an handful of *' Conti- nental Troops," to wander through a country where a regiment of militia could scarcely be raised, to take the held for any length of time ? They might be brought, from the principles of self-preservation, to defend their home, and to repel an enemy from tli^fr ANDREW JACKSON. 45 immediate neighbourhood, but could with difficulty be brought to follow the apparently desperate for- tune of the Chief to a distant portion of the country. Had not the "Continental Army'' been organized, and been brought to consider themselves as solid iers of the whole American Ptepu})lic — Cornwaltis might have ultimately surrendered — but it is doubtful whether Washington would have conquered him in 1781. At the commencement of the last war, the militia of the United States had enjoyed a period of peace for thirty years. The acts of Congress, and of the individual states, made every possible saluta- ry provision to give to that force respectability and efficiency. This body then consisted of eight hun- dred thousand men ; an hundred thousand of whom were drafted for the service of the United States; The collisions between the state governments and that of the Union — the jealousies between the ofli- cers of the army and those of the militia, are within the recollection of every reader; but the detail be- longs more properly to The History of the Second War between the American Republic and the Kmg» domof Great- Britain iihdin to The Memoirs of Major-* General Jackson. In 1812, Gen. Jackson, being still major general of the Tennessee militia, was called by the dictates of. patriotism, and his ardent love of his country, to espouse its cause in the field, as he had spent much of his life in advocating its interests in ih^ cabinets ) 46 MEMOIRS OF With the sagacity of a statesman, and with the feel- ings of a patriot, he had long seen a storm gathering over his beloved country. He had seen one Repub* lie after another fall in Europe, before the tremen- dous power of the " Allied Sovereigns.'* He had seen the best and the last hopes of man blasted and almost annihilated in Europe, by the uplifted arm of despotic po\yer. He had seen the British govern- ment, from the commencement of the Pitt admin- istration, to that period, the head of this *' holy alliance" offensive and defensive against the rights of man. He had seen that power, from year to year, encroaching upon the independence which the- American RcpuJilic compelled them to acknowledge in 1783. He had seen the pacifis policy of the American government, resortirjg to negociation after negociation, met by the increasing insolence of the arrogant court of St. James. He had not only seen, but he and the people of Tennessee had for many years felt, the effect of British and Span- ish influence over the Creek, the most ferocious and warlike tribe of Indians upon the continent. For many years this tribe carried on a predatory war- fare against the settlements of Tennessee, especially upon the Cumberland river, upon which Gen. Jack- et son resided. He and the people, without any aid " from the general government, had defended them« selves from the frequent incursions of this insidious and barbarous foe. In this way the people of Tea? nessee had learned the horrors of Indian warfare from their own sufferings. ^ The history of the world scarcely furnishes a par- allel with the sufferings of the Europeans upon the continent of America. Nor does it furnish a paral- lel with the injuries which the native Americans have sustained from Europeans. The conquest of South America, by the Spaniards, was marl^ed with more sanguinary violations of the rights of humani- ty, than any conquest from tliat of Canaan to the nineteenth century of the Christian era. As little as we know of its blood-stained history, we have, from infancy, wept over the calamities of the Tnca$ of Peru, and of the countless legions of their unhappy subjects. Through the eye of history, we see the powerful agents of his most Catholic majesty arrive among these happy natives. With an exterminating sword in one hand, and with the w^ord of God in the other, these early missionaries demanded the irr^mediate conversion of a wliole people to Chris- tianity. The artless sons of nature, wlio supposed the most splendid object was the fittest one to be adored, ofiered their adoration to the Sun. They could not adore an invisible being, who maue no im- pression upon their s^w^e-^. An army with the wea- pons of destruction and death, was ready to aid the priesthood in the work of conversiori. One Inca, fell with his nation after another, with their inex- haustible treasures, into the hands of Christian 48 MEMOIRS ©F Si^aniards, and at Ihis time the ahorigines of S. America scarcely have an existence. In North America, the acquisitions of Europeans VTre attended with circumslances less bloody; but the natives were compelled by arms, or by contracts enforced by them, to retire as they advanced in settlements. The tomahawk and the arrow, were feeble, cojnpared with fire arms and briyonets. Al- though they were compelled to surrender their ter- ritory, their native pride and heroic courage was never subjuc?;ated. They retired before their con- quen»rs ; and as their territory was wrested from tliem by fraud, or by force, and as their numbers were diminished by disease, and by war, their vengeance against their spoilers increased. But one sentiment prevailed among them from the Isth- mus of Darien to the North- West coast — from the Atlontic to the Western ocean. The broken rem- nants of some few tribes have indeed been brought to bury the hatchet ; but they never have been, and probably never will be, cordially reconciled to the white population. The hostile savages by priva- tions the most severe, by tortures the ruost cruel, and by deaths the most horrible, still wreak their vengeance upon the descendants of those who first invaded their native soil. In al)out the year 1810, a ])lind religious fanati- cism was added to the natural feiocity of the Amer- ican savages. A Prophet arose among them, ar^d ANDREW JACKS6N. 49 claimed divine power, derived directly from the Great Spirit. This immense accession to human power, was no less calculated to fascinate savages, than it ever has been to excite the veneration of that part of mankind who claim to be civilized. The American savage Francis, had as many claims to the character and inspiration of Prophet, as the Asi- atic civilian Mahomet ; and had he possessed equal power to laake conquests and converts, under the banners of divinity, he might hereafter have had as many followers. But Gen. Harrison disrobed him of his divinity at Tippacanoe, in 1811, and his brother Tccumseh, fled to the southern tribes upon the Alabama, early in the year 1812, to inspire the savages there, to act in concert with their red breth- ren in the north. ' But nothing inspired the Creek, Alabama, and Seminole Indians so much as British and Spanish gold, British muskets, and British pro- mises. With their hereditary hatred against Ameri- cans, (or the dtizens of the United States,) added to the enthusiasm excited by Tecumseh, and the liberal aid of the British and Spanish governments, these powerful tribes, at the commencement of the last war, were prepared to spread havotf, devasta- tion, torture and death, among the Americans who bordered upon their territory. * ' The states of Tennessee and Georgia, from their vicinity to the immense country inhabited by the Creeks, were more immediately exposed to the hor- E 50 MEMOIRS OP rid ravages of Indian warfare. Familiarized to their unrelenting barbarity, the citizens of Georgia and Tennessee were fully aware, that nothing but a war of extermination against the Creeks, would pro- tect their own settlements on the frontiers, from de- struction, and their families from wanton barbarity. Tecumseh had, by his art, his eloquence, and his assumed divinity, infused into the Creek nation the most implacable hatred against the Americans. He addressed himself to their pride, by reminding them of the ancient power of the savages, and the boundless extent of their territory. He aroused their vengeance against Americans, as the people who had reduced their numbers, and diminish- ed their greatness. He censured them for any con- formity, in any respect, to the Americans, and ex- horted them, upon the dreadful penalty of the dis- pleasure of the Great Spirit, to return wholly to the savage state. The preaching of Saint Bernard and Peter the Monk, had not a greater effect upon the Christians of Europe, when they exhorted them to raise a crusade against the infidels, than did that of Tecumseh upon the Creek, the Alabama, and Semi- nole Indians. A complete concert was established between all the southern tribes, and a general con- cert between them* and the northern onesc War clubs were every where distributed — but the most profound secrecy was enjoined. Tecumseh had war- ranted the interposition of the Great Spirit^ and, ANDREW JACKSON. '51 what he had much better authority for doing, that of Great-Britain, in favour of the savages. The confidence of the savages in the success that would attend them and their Christian allies, the British, was effectually confirmed. It was an estab- lished principle with them to give no quarters, nor to ask any. Pursuant to this system, they had, be- fore the commencement of the last war, murdered many families upon the frontiers of Georgia and Tennessee, and seemed resolved to extirpate the Americans, or be exterminated themselves. This brief sketch may be deemed a digression ; but I considered it necessary to prepare the mind of the reader for the succinct account which will follow, of the part taken by Gen. Jackson in the sanguinary war carried on by him and the gallant army under his command against the Creeks. The act of Congress, of 1812, authorising the raising of a volunteer corps', of fifty thousand men, to serve one year within trvo years after they were organized, induced Gen. Jackson to address the gallant sons of Tennessee belonging to his division. Perhaps no man in the American Republic could address his fellow-citizens with more confidence of success, than Gen. Jackson — certain it is that nd once addressed them so successfully. In a very short time, he found his standard, at Nashville^ sur- rounded by twenty.five hundred men, among whom were many of the first families and of the greatest ^2 MEMOIKS OF fortunes. It was not that wordy and paper patriot- ism which filled many of the journals of the day with inflated resolutions, pledging to the Republic the *' lives, fortune, and honour^* of those who pas- sed them. These men came in person to serve their country, rather than in a town-meeting to resolve that they would do it. Gen. Jackson voluntarily efFered his service to his country, instead of solicit- ing an office from its government. The General and his army of volunteers, made a tender of their ser- vices to government, and in November, 1812, were accepted, and became a part of the national force. When this corps of volunteers was organized, they little thought, perhaps, what arduous duty would be allotted to them ; and had they antici- pated it, the glory they afterwards acquired, would hardly have been thought a sufficient reward for the excessive fatigues and hazards they endured in acquiring it. Their achievements shall be recorded with scrupulous regard to accuracy, and their aber- rations from duty shall be mentioned with all the delicacy that is consistent with truth. ANDREW JACKSON. 53 CHAPTER IV. Gen. JacksoH and Tennessee Volunteers— Importance of the river Mississippi— Mr. Monroe's solicitude for the security of it, and the Western States— Volunteers rendezfous at Nashville, Tenn.— de- scend the Ohio and Mississippi— encamp at Natchez— Order for their discharge from Mr. Armstrong— disobeyed by Gen. Jackson — Volunteers return to Tennessee, and are discharged— Approbation of the government. The avidity and promptitude with which the large and respectable Corps of Tennessee Volun- teers resorted to the standard of their beloved and respected commander, Andrew Jackson, was a sure presage of the gallantry with which they would support the independence, rights, and honour of the Republic against a savage and implacable foe upon the borders of their native state, and against the most powerful and veteran nation in Europe, now in alliance with them. At the commencement of the last war, it was im- possible for the government to determine upon what part of our extended sea- board the naval forces of Britain would first attempt to make a demonstra- Hon; or upon what part of our frontier its armies would attempt to invade our territory. The im- mense importance of the command of the Missis- sippi, and its tributary streams, could not escape E 2 54 BiEMoms Of the attention of either the American or British governments. Every exertion therefore of the one to retain, and of the other to acquire it, might well be expected. The lower states and territories situ- ated upon this important river, attracted the early attention of government, and induced the most effi- cient measures for their defence. Mr. Monroe, for some time previous, and during the whole war, was a member of the American cabinet. As ambassador of the American Republic at the court of France, he had negociated the treaty for the accession of Louisiana to the United States; and must have felt a deep solicitude in the rising importance of the Western States. He was aware, that without the command of the Mississippi, they would lose their future importance, and be at present subjected to the rapacity of British soldiery, and the horrors of savage warfare. Although the war department, until the campaign of 1814, was not under his immediate control, and although he was not directly implicated in the disasters of those of 1812, and 1813 ; he nevertheless, as one of the first officers in the cabinet, felt a high degree of responsibility. In regard to the Mississippi river, as he may almost be said to have acquired it for his country, he must have felt a deep interest in secur^ ing the incalculable benefits arising to the Republic, especially to the Western States^ from the exclusive command of it. ANDREW JACKSON. SB The Tennessee voliinlTiers, under the command of Gen. Jackson, at the close of the year 1812, were ordered to proceed down the Ohio and Missis- sippi, for the defence of the lower states against an expected attack of the Britisii forces. The deep laid plot of the Indians already mentioned, was not yet ready for execution ; nor were the American settlers exposed to their immediate ravages, excited to make any but the ordinary preparations of de* fence against these insidious, cruel, and infernal enemies. The Creeks were apparently indifferent spectators to the contest which had now commenced between the American Republic, and the kingdom of Great Britain. At the beginning of the year 1813, Gen. Jackson and his fine corps of Tennessee volunteers, having previously rendezvoused at Nashville, in Tennes- see, situated upon the south bank of Cumberland river, prepared to execute the orders received to descend the Ohio and Mississippi. Although situa- ted in a mild and salubrious climate, enduring but little severity in comparison with the more frigid regions of the northern states, the country at this time was covered with snow, and the navigation of the Ohio and Missibsippi was obstructed and ren- dered difficult and hazardous by ice. The volunteers had thus far enjoyed the anima- ting splendour of military life, but were yet unac- quainted with its toils, fatigues, and privations. 56 MEMOIRS OF Upon the Tth January, 1813, headed in person by a leader whom they esteemed as an accomplished commander, and an affectionate guardian, they com- menced an expedition, in which they hoped to ren- der essential service to their country, which they loved better than they did their lives, and to acquire for themselves the reputation of patriotic soldiers. Animated by the example of Gen. Jackson, they endured the hardships of a long and tedious passage, without a murmur, and submitted to the discipline indispensably necessary in an army, without the least appearance of insubordination. They arriv- ed at Natchez^ about three hundred miles above New-Orleans, where they were ordered to rendez- vous until further orders. Gen. Jackson having selected the most judicious situation for the encampment of his army, here commenced the arduous and difficult duty of chang- ing citizens to soldiers. The Tennessee volunteers had seen nothing of military life, except the easy and pleasurable duty usually performed by militia in time of peace, and occasional excursions against small parties of savages. Had they enlisted into the army of the Republic, received a liberal bounty from its treasury, and been certain of regular pay- ment of wages while in service, and a valuable tract of land when discharged ; a cheerful submission to military discipline might have been expected, and a necessary one enforced. These patriotic volun- ANDREW JACKSON. dF teers thought little of a pecuniary reward ; but were inspired, by the impulse of patriotism, to be- 0ome disciplined sojdiers out of principle. But no sooner had they began to learn the duties of the camp, and to acquire the science of war, than an order from the war department was receiv- ed by Gen. Jackson, commanding him to ^^ dismiss Ms volunteers, and deliver all public pr ope rti/ in his possession to Major-Gene ral Wilkinson^** then com- manding the military district in which -hey were stationed. Mr. Armstrong was then Secretary at War. It is not for the historian or the biographer to inquire into motives, or to impeach them; but when the fact is stated that this oidor bore date the 5th of January, 1813, two days be/ore Gen; Jack- son moved with his forces from Nashville, and was not received until sometime after he established his cantonment at Natchez, almost five hundred miles below, the reader may well exclaim, in the language of the Prince of the Drama — " there is a spirit in the affairs of Hate, which nor tongue, nor pen can give expressure to^ A compliance with this order would have b^en an abandonment of his corps. Although among them were many men poFsessed of ample funds and adequate means to travel half a thousand miles to their homes, yet they little thought, when they en- tered the service of their country, that they should be so soon compelled to expend their wealth, as ^. 58 MEMOIRS OF well as expose their lives and health in its defence. A very great number were wholly destitute of the means of subsistence, and depended wholly upon the public stores in their possession for the support of life while in camp, and upon their return march through a country, either very thinly inhabited or a w iiderness. A third class were in a situation still more deplorable ; indeed in a state of absolute des- titution — destitute of health, destitute of resources, and, as a general consequence, destitute of hope. The sick list numbered between one hundred and fifty and two hundred ; many of whom were lan- guishing under extreme debility. It is difficult to conceive of a situation more dis- tressing and responsible than that in which Gen. Jackson was placed by this order from Mr. Arm- strong. Obedience to it, would have been casting most of his patriotic followers upon a pityiess world in an inclement season, and destitute of resources- disobedience of the order would subject him to mil- itary punishment, unless the peculiar circumstan- ces of the case should be deemed sufficient to ex- cuse him from the operation of military law. Af- ter consultation with his officers, who, at first, ac- corded with him in opinion, he assured the Secre- tary at War, that the order would be disregarded ; and that a sufficient quantity of the public stores would be retained to aid his volunteers in returning to their homes. ANDREW JACKSON. 59 Gen. Wilkinson was advised of the order of the war department, and of the determination of Gen. Jackson in regard to it. Clothed with the authori- ty of the government — commanding one of the most extensive military districts in the Republic — anxious to augment his stores, and increase the number of his own troops, he endeavoured to inti- midate Gen. Jackson into obedience of the order, by forewarning him of the alarming consequences to himself of disobedience. Some of his own offi- cers retracted their first decision, and advised a compliance with the order. Even the quarter- master endeavoured to compel him to the measure, by omitting to take the necessary steps preparatory to the commencement of the return march. Cool, collected, and unembarrassed. Gen. Jacl^son now took counsel from his own judgment, and the re- sponsibility of his conduct upon his otvn head ; know- ing, that if called to do it, he could justify him- self before any forum, excepting one that had pre- judged his case. He gave orders for breaking up the encampment, and for commencing the move- ment which was to conduct his volunteers to the place of original rendezvous ; and gave it in such a manner, and accompanied it with such acts, as to convince all, that from this decision there was no appeal. The gloom and dejection which pervaded this corps, when the order from the war departaient was -^ 6d MEMOIRS OF received, was converted to the exhilirafion of joy when the determination of their general Mas made known. The wagons were used for the transporta- tion of the sick ; and even the horses of the general and his staff were cheerfully surrendered for that purpose when necessary. During a march of near- ly five hundred miles, Gen. Jackson evinced, by his uniform conduct, that although his situation compelled him to act as a soldier, ** he felt like a man.^* To the high respect which was at all times felt by the Tennessee volunteers for Gen. Jackson, was now added the most ardent attachment. They almost forget the dignity of the general, in the more amiaMe and endearing qualities of the patron and the friend. Tiiis corps, having endur- ed the privations of the camp, and the fatigues of marching and counter-marching, without having 7jet acquired any of the laurels which are reaped in the field of battle, were discharged about the 1st of May, 1813. But the ardent patriotism, regula- ted by a spirit of subordination, which they shewed in this first scene of military life, justified the high expectation which was entertained of them, and which was afterwards so amply gratified by their splendid military achievements. The course pursued by Gen. Jackson in regard to Mr. Armstrong's order, and the volunteers, may meet with the animadversion of the mere officer, who acquired his knowledge of tactics from books. ANDREW JACKSON, 61 and his ideas of subordination from reading the ar- ticles of war; but his conduct was approbated by the administration, and the whole expenses of the expedition paid out of the public treasury. The military ardour of Gen. Jackson was not damped by the critical and even dangerous circumstances in which he had recently been placed — dangerous, more from the machinations of official intrigue, than from the open enemies of the country. The first he had too much magnanimity even to sus- pect — the last he had courage enough to face in every possible situation. f 62 MEMOIRS OF CHAPTER V. Approbation and censure of Gen. Jackson — implacable hostility of savages increased by British and Spanish emissaries, and British ravages — Indian massacre of garrison, women and children, at Fort Mimms— Expedition from Tennessee against Creeks prepar- ed — Gen. Jackson assumes the command — Colonel Coffee — differ- ence between Militia, Volunteers, and Regular Troops— Genera! Jackson proceeds to the frontiers — prepares for active service — Deficiency of provisions — Col. Dyer destroys Littafutchcs — First victory over the Creeks at Tallushatches — Gen. Coffee's report of it to Gen. Jackson. The superficial reader of biography, feels im- patient to arrive at the developement of the dis- tinguished character who is the subject of it. The more critical examiner, traces the progress of the Statesman, the Soldier, and the Scholar, from the first dawn of his greatness, to the meridian of his glory. The untutored imagination will utter vo- ciferous hosannas to the memories of the great ; but they are as destitute of meaning, as were the enthu- siastic praises bestowed by the Ephesians, upon Ihe goddess Dianna. That applause which is offered by intelligence to merit, is the only commendation which a great and a good man wishes to receive when in life, and it is the only sentence which will embalm his memory after his death. The same remarks may be applied to the censure which the ANDREW JACKSON. 63 world generally bestows with more liberality than it does its praise. It has been shewn that Gen, Jackson had scarcely entered the threshold of his military life, before the cheering voice of approba- tion, as well as the dissonant notes of censure, ruet his ear. But he was then, and is now, a man whom merited praise cannot enervate, and whom unjust censure cannot intimidate. In the third chapter of this work, the reasons were briefly stated why the Aborigines of America, are so implacably hostile to the Anglo-Americans, especially to the, citizens of the American Republic. They have been taught to believe that their Great Fathers, beyond the great waters, occupying the thrones of Britain and Spain, are their friends and protectors; while the Americans are their enemies and destroyers. The emissaries of these great po- tentates themselves, will always disseminate and en- courage this sentiment, as long as they have colo- nies bordering upon the United States ; and as long as they need savages as allies^ to aid them in their Quixotic views of recolonizing them. Lest this fact may, by some be thou^i to be too confidently stated, I quote the following. from the Report of the Committee on Foreign Relations, to whom was referred the Manifesto of President Madison, of the 1st June, 181^,— «* It is known that symptoms of British hostility towards the United States, have never failed to produce corresponding 64* MEMOIRS OF symptoms among those tribes. [" Savage tribes on eur frontiers.^'] It is also well known, that on all such occasions, abundant supplies of the ordinary munitions of war, have been afforded by the agents of British commercial companies, and even from British garrisons, wherewith they were enabled t© commence that system of savage warfare on our frontiers, which has been, at all times, indiscrimi- nate in its effect, on all ages, sexes, and conditions, and so revolting to humanity." This is confined to British emissaries. Before the reader reaches the close of these brief Memoirs, he will be furnished with evidence "strong as proof of holy writ" of the more aggravated injuries of the emissaries of Ferdinand VII. of Spain. It was not until the British fleets had commen- ced their ravages upon our then defenceless sea- ports ; and the British armies had began the work of devastation upon our then unprotected frontiers, that the Creek Indians, as a tribe, advanced for a similar purpose, to the borders of the states of Georgia, Tennessee, and Mississippi. The last men- tioned state, then a territorial government, felt the first disastrous shock from a concealed storm that had long hung in awful silence upon its borders. The Spanish government, the consummate du- plicity of which is equalled only by the horrors of its despotism, had long furnished the Creeks with arras and ammunition, the bjstter to enable them ANDREW JACKSON. 65 to destroy the rapidly increasing settlements of the states bordering upon Florida. As before men- tioned, these states had defended themselves with but little aid from the general government. In August 1813, a garrison of one hundred and fifty men, was stationed in a settlement called Ten- sa7Vf in the state of Mississippi. They occupied an incomplete fortress, called Fort Minims, at Tensalo, to which many females and children had resorted for protection against the enkindled wrath of the Creek Indians, who had before, in small parties, >yantonly murdered a number of families. The whole amounted to nearly 400 at the fort. But the garrison and the inhabitants were unsuspicious of a general movement of these ferocious sons of the forest. Upon the 30th of August, the furious storm of savage warfare burst upon them with all its appal- ing horrors. From six hundred to a thousand savages commenced an assault. The most veteran courage was imbecility itself against such an over- whelming superiority of force. The tragical scene that followed the possession of Fort Mimms, by the Creeks, no mind can conceive — no tongue can ex- press—no pen can describe I The savages, having long before resolved to ask no quarters, nor to grant any, began and completed the dreadful work of human carnage. The demand of the soldier for quarters, was as ineffectual as the heart-piercingi F 2 66 MEMOIRS OF entreaties of the mother, to spare her life and that of her child. A general slaughter was made ; and out of about three hundred and seventy persons, soldiers, women and children, in and about the fort, but seventeen escaped. The Indians entered one of the gates of the fort, and set fire to an old building within it. Major Beasltj commanded ; and with a band that reminds the reader of the Spartan band* of Leonidas at Thermopylas, maintained a conflict with more than four times their force, until they slew more than their own numbers. While this forlorn hope were selling their lives in the fort, the aged men, the helpless women, and shrieking children, were per- ishing in the flames in the upper story of the burn- ing building. To use the impressive language of one who was near this scene of carnage — " Under the double influence of British gold and furious fa- naticism, the savages fought in a manner scarcely to be credited. The fight was so obptinately main- tained, for a long time, that the opponents, overcome by fatigue and exertion, loaded their pieces delibe- rately, and shot each other down, or were mutually dispatched by the bayonet and tomahawk." The solicitude which this direful catastrophe pro.- * I find in many of the official reports during the last war, a brave body of Smtricans is called " a Spartan band " I cannot see how an American baod Should be a band of Spartans howeyer brare tlley may It ANDREW JACKSON. 67 cluced, in all the exposed settlements upon the Mo- bile, Torabigbee, and in many other places, can bet- ter be imagined than expressed. Although the state of Tennessee was not immediately in danger, yet the most energetic and efficient measures were taken to protect the frontiers, and avenge the mas- sacre at Fort Mimms. The legislature of that state convened towards the close of September — authori- sed Governor Blount to call into immediate service, three thousand five hundred of the militia — and voted three hundred thousand dollars for their sup- port. The legislature, and indeed, the whole popula- tion of Tennessee, fixed their hopes upon Gen. Jack- son. The confidence of all in him was unbounded. It had long been his opinion that the only effectual mode of warfare against savages, was to carry war into the heart of their country. Gen. Wai/ne, many years since, and Gen. Harrison more recently had evinced the correctness of this opinion. The legis- lature accorded with him in sentiment, and the command of an intended expedition devolved upon him. Gen. Jackson had recently received a fracture in his arm, and a wound in his body, in the settlement of an affair of honour, in an honourable manner. Under any other circumstances, the severity of the wounds, and the consequent debility, would have detained him in his domestic circle. But he wffs 68 MEMOIRS OF born for his country — his country demanded his services; and the ardent patriotism of his soul, made hira forget the debility of his body. He was ordered by Gov. Blount to call out two thousand militia, and to rendezvous at FayHteville, A part of this detachment consisted of the Tennes- see volunteers, who had the preceding spring return- ed from Natchez. Upon the 4ith of October, 1813, the day appointed, the troops promptly repaired to the place of rendezvous. Colonel, soon after Gene« ral Coffee^ in the mean time, had raised five hundred mounted volunteers, and was authorised to augment his force, by adding to it the volunteer mounted riflemen who might offer their services. It would be a task highly grateful to the author, would the prescribed limits of thie work permit, to give a brief sketch of this accomplished and patriotic officer. It is enough to say, that he commenced his active mili- tary life, with Andrew Jackson ; and that in the most disastrous periods of the Creek war, when, by the jealousy of some, the treachery of others, the in- trigues of many, and the apprehensions of all, his general was left almost alone in a wilderness of blood- seeking barbarians, be remained ^\faithful among the faithlesSi^^ till the last conquering stroke was given. He followed the no less desperate fortune of Gen. Jackson to New-Orleans, where he, with his general, and his gallant army, acquired Jaurefs ANDREW JACKSON. G9 which will never fade, until men cease to appreciate exalted patriotism. Upon the Tth October, Gen. Jackson repaired to the rendezvous at Fayetteville ; and although in a state of indisposition which required the repose of the hospital, rather than in that vigorous health which is necessary to endure the fatigues of the camp, and a march through the wilderness, he as- sumed the command of the army designed to avenge the blood of their countrymen, and to conquer the most warlike tribe of barbarians in the universe. It might be deemed presumptuous to say, that Gen. Jackson was the only man in Tennessee, who could successfully command an army destined to accom- plish this arduous and perilous duty; but it may, without hesitation be said, that no man at that tirae^ had so completely secured the confidence, and raised the hopes of the civil and military power of that state as he. He found the troops assembled, deficient in num- bers, and was aware that few of them had " seea service." The difference between drafted militia, volunteer troops, and enlisted soldiers, has been slightly alluded to. It will readily be acknowledg- ed by every officer and every soldier in the late war. It does not arise from a difference of patriotism or courage, for both are inherent with all true Ameri- cans. It may probably be imputed to the differ- ence in their organization. The Milkia, in times of 70 MEMOIRS OF peace, consider the performance of military service rather as a pastime, than a duty; and cannot be broui,^ht, suddenly, to submit to the rigid discipline of the camp. The Volunteers are impelled by love of country, and a thirst for fame, to fiy, unasked, to the standard of the Republic ; but when the im- pulse that led them there has subsided, and they find that glory is to be acquired by a long course of severe duty, apathy often succeeds to animation ; and many are ready to exclaim with Byron. "/ want no other Paradise but rest.'* The soldiers enter the army to make a trade of war. They study disci- pline as a business; and courage with them is not only a principle, but it is a system. To conquer, to be captured, or to die, is a matter of course and of necessity ; and if disasters are remediless, when they happen, they endure them without a murmur. Gen. Jackson, at the time he commenced his sec- ond expedition, and his first against the Creeks, had no United States' troops under his command; in- deed, he had no authority himself under the general government, being senior major-general of Tennessee militia. He commenced the arduous duty of con^ verting citizens to soldiers, and resorted to every possible expedient which a prudent as well as an in- trepid commander could devise to insure success. The previous character — the presence and example of the general, inspired the soldiers withconfidencej and gave them victory in anticipation. ANDREW JACKebN. 71 I. Coffee had penetrated with his cavalry and mounted vohinteers towards the frontiers, and was stationed near Huntsville. In the Creek nation were many natives in amity with the United States. From them, important information was obtained, and by them, essential service was rendered. Upon the 8th, Col. Coffee informed Gen. Jackson, by ex- press, that from information derived from Indian runners, the hostile Creeks were in great force, and intended simultaneously to attack the frontiers of Georgia and Tennessee. Upon the 10th, Gen. Jack- son, in an unprepared state, took up the line of march; and, what is perhaps \\ithout a parallel for the first day*s march, reached Hnntsvilie the same evening, a distance of from thirty to forty miles. Col. Coffee had reached the Tennessee river, and Gen. Jackson the next day overtook him, and uni- ted with his regiment upon the bank of that river. Aware that "pror.raetination is (he tliief of time," and that the ardour of raw and undisciplined troops was soon cooled, he dispatched Col. Coffee with his mounted corps, to explore the river Big Warrior and Etomh-igaby,coviMwor\\^ c?i\\^d Tombi^hee. He encamped his own division upon the Tennes- see, and was indefatigable in preparing them for active service. He remained here but a week ; and, what will excite the astonishment of those who have witnessed the slow progiess of raw troops to the character of veteran soldiers, he made his army such 72 MEMOIRS OP in that time. The mystery is explained, when it is said, in this corps, at this time, they found pleas- ure in the performanceof duty, and the performance of duty was the enjoyment of pleasure. In the camp of Gen. Jackson, there could hardly be said to be a commissary department at this time ; and he depended upon various contractors for casu- al rather than regular supplies of provisions. An alarming deficiency was found to exist, and an un- certainty of supplies was made known. Nothing could be so much calculated to repress military ar- dour as this discovery. Men who would face death in its most horrible forms, will turn to children at the approach of famine. Gen. Jackson, by meas- ures the most efficient, and by entreaties the most urgent, endeavoured to secure a supply. Undis- mayed himself, he set an example of cheerfulness before his followers, that for a time dispelled their apprehensions. At this critical period, information was received that the Creeks were embodied near the Ten Islands on the Coosa, Collecting what provisions could be obtained, but a few day's supply, he commenced his march upon the 18th for Thompson's Creek, His route led through a mountainous country, which would seem to have defied the passage of an array and the appendages of it. Upon the 22d he arri- ved there, where he remainsd until certain informa- tion was received that the Creeks woald soon com« ANDREW JACKSON. 7S mencc active operations upon the Coosa. The war- riors, to an amount wholly unknown, but who were supposed to be very numerous, had assembled, in warlike array, at Tallushatches. Col. Dyer had before been despatched to attack, and, if possible, destroy the Indian town of Litta- futrhes. He destroyed the place; and upon the 28th, returned to camp with twenty-nine prisoners of the hostile Creeks, extending that mercy to them by sparing their lives, vyhich their system of warfare prohibited them from extending to Americans. The main body was encamped about thirteen miles from Tallushatches ; and upon the 1st of No- vember, a small supply of provisions was brought into camp. Col. Coffee had been promoted to a brigadier-general; and was despatched early upon the 2d, with 900 cavalry, and mounted riflemen, to attack the Creeks in their encampment. Gen. Jack- son, although convalescent, was at this time extreme- ly debilitated, from long indisposition, excessive fa- tigue, and extreme solicitude, and had no use of one arm ; but in Gen. Coffee, he had an officer to whom he might safely entrust an expedition of any impor- tance, and of any danger. The result of this first important engagement, I present to the reader in the language of " Official Reports.^* Deeniing this altogether the most pre- ferable mode of furnishing the reader with the d€^ G r4 MEMOIRS OF tails of battles, I shall adopt it through the work, when they can be obtained. GEN. JACKSON TO GOV. BLOUNT. Camp at Ten I stands , Nov, ^th, 1813. Governor Blount, Sir, — We have retaliated for the destruction of Fort Mimms, On the 2d, I detached Gen. Colfee, ■with a part of his brigade of cavalry and mounted riflemen, to destroy Tallushatches, where a consid- erable force of the hostile Creeks were concentrated. The General executed this in style. An hundred and eighty-six of the enemy were found dead on the field, and about eighty taken prisoners, forty of whom have been brought here. In the number left, there is a sufficiency but slightly wounded to take care of those who are badly. I have to regret that five of my brave fellows have been killed, and about thirty wounded ; some badly, but none I hope mortally. Both officers and men behaved with the utmost bravery and deliberation. Captains Smith, Bradley, and Winston are wound- ed, all slightly. No officer is killed. So soon as Gen. Coffee makes his report, I shall enclose it. If we had a sufficient supply of provisions, wc ANDREW JACKSON. 75 should in a very short time accomplish the object of the expedition. I have the honour to be, with great respect, yours, kc. ANDREW JACKSON. P. S. Seventeen Cherokees, under the command of Col. Brown, acted with great bravery in the ac- tion. Two of Chenubby's sons, and Jim Fife, of the Natchez tribe, also distinguished themselves. One of the Creek prophets is killed. A. J. It will be noticed that Gen. Jackson merely alludes to the subject of provisions ; but from numerous sources of correct information, it is certain at that time that a very scanty supply was on hand. The following is Gen. Coffee's report of the battle of Tallushatches, alluded to in the letter to Gov. Blount. BRIG. GEN. COFFEE TO MAJ. GEN. JACKSON. Camp at Ten Islands^ Nov. 4ithy 1813. Maj. Gen. Jackson, Sir,— I had the honour yesterday, of transmitting you a short account of an engagement that took place between a detachment of about 900 men from my brigade with the enemy at Tallushatches town ; the particulars whereof I beg leave herein to recite you. Pursuant to your order of the 2d, I detailed from my brigade of cavalry and mounted riflemen, 900 men and officers, and proceeding directly to the r6 MEMOIRS OF Tallushatches towns, crossed Coosa river at the Fish Dam ford, three or four raiies above this place. I arrived within one and a half miles of the town, (distant from this place south-east eight miles,) on the morning of the 3d, at which place I divided ray detachment into two columns, the right composed of the cavalry commanded by Col. Allcorn, to cross over a large creek that lay between us and the towns ; the left column was of the mounted riflemen, under the command of Col. Cannon, with whom 1 marched myself. Col. Allcorn was ordered to march up on the right, and encircle one half of the town, and at the same time the left would form a half circle on the left, and unite the head of the columns in front of the town — all of which was performed as I could wish. When I arrived within half a mile of the town, the drums of the eiicray began tc beat^ rniii- gled with their savage yells, preparing for action. It was after sunrise an hour when the action was brought on by Capt. Hammond and Lieut. Patter- son's companies, who had gone on within the circle of alignment, for the purpose of drawing out the enemy from their buildings, which had the most happy effect. As soon as Capt. Hammond exhibit- ed his front in view of the town, (which stood in an open woodland,) and gave a few scattering shot, the enemy formed and made a violent charge on him ; he gave way as they advanced, until they met our right column, which gave them a general fire and ANDREW JACKSON. 77 then charged ; this changed the direction of charge completely ; the enemy retreated firing, until they got around, and in their buildings, where they made all the resistance that an overpowered soldier could do; they fought as long as one existed ; but their destruction was very soon completed : our men rushed up to the doors of the houses, and in a few minutes killed the last warrior of them. The enemy fought with savage fury, and met death with all its horrors, without shrinking or complaining : not one asked to be spared, but fought as long as they could stand or sit. In consequence of their fiying to their houses and mixing with the families, our men, in killing the males, without intention, killed and wounded a few of the squaws and chil- dren, which was regretted by every officer and sol- dier of the detachment, but which could not be avoided. The number of the enemy killed, was 186, that were counted, and a number of others that were killed in the weeds, not found. I think the calcu- lation a reasonable one, to say 200 of them were killed, and 84 prisoners of women and children? were taken. Not one of the warriors escaped to carry the news — a circumstance unknown hereto- fore. We lost 5 men killed, and 41 wounded, none mor- tally, the greater part slightly; a number with ar- G2 fS MEMOIRS OF rows. This appears to form a very principal part of the enemy's arms for warfare, every man having a bow with a bundle of arrows, which is used after the first fire with the gun, until a leisure time for loading offers. It is with pleasure I say that our men acted with deliberation and firmness. Notwithstanding our numbers were superior to that of the enemy, it was a circumstance to us unknown ; and from the parade of the enemy, we had every reason to suppose them, our equals in number : but there appeared no visi- ble traces of alarm in any, but on the contrary all appeared cool and determined, and no doubt when they face a foe of their own, or superior num- ber, they will show the same courage as on this oc- casion. I have the honour to be, very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, JOHN COFFEE, Brig. Gen. of Cavalry and Riflemen. Maj, Gen, Andrew Jackson. Killed, 5 privates. Woundedy 4 captains, 2 lieutenants, 2 cornets, 3 sergeants, 5 corporals, 1 artificer, 24 privates.— To- tal, killed and wounded, 46. In this report the reader will readily see, that while Gen. Coflfee is gratified at communicating an account of victory, he is grieved at some of the cir- ANDREW JACKSON. 79 cuHistances attending it. " Not one," he says, *' asked to be spared"— and without asking; quarter, and continuing to fight, they could not be spared. The regret expressed at killing and wounding some of the women and children, mingled with the war- riors, and which could not be avoided, shews that brave men are alwavs humane. so MEMOIRS QF CHAPTER VI. Tennessee forces — Collisions in armies — EstabHshm*'nt of Fort Stro- ther — Perilous situation of friendly Creeks — Despatch to Genera! White — his conduct — Battle of Talladega — Geu. Jackson's ac- count of it. At the cominencement of the campaign, in the Creek nation, in 1813, the Tennessee forces, militia and voUmteers, that were called into service, con- sisted of two divisions — one of West Tennessee, commanded by Maj. Gen. Jackson, the other of East Tennessee, commanded by Maj. Gen. Cocke. The division of the Tennessee forces seemed to be governed by the division which nature has made of this state by the range of the Cumberland moun- tains, running from north to south. Major Gen. Thomas Pinckney, of the United States' army, was commander in chief of the military district in which these troops were raised and organized. Whether it was designed by the executive of Tennessee that the two divisions of its forces should act in concert, or remain two distinct corps, acting independently of each other, cannot positively be determined by the writer. The first is altogether the most probable ; indeed it is rendered almost certain from the course pursued by Gen. Jackson^- ANDRBWr JACKSON. 81 It cannot for a moment be supposed, that a man who had so long been in public life — filling exalt- ed and highly responsible stations in the civil and military departments, would arrogate to himself an authority which was not expressly, or by the fairest implicationj bestowed upon him. He issued orders to the division under Gen. Cocke. The un- fortunate collisions, misunderstandings, and jealous- ies which for a time obstructed, and nearly thwart- ed the important and hazardous expedition into the country of the Creeks, though reluctantly, must necessarily, be alluded to, to show the course pur- sued by Gen. Jackson. Although the patriot will lament the existence of feuds in a patriotic army, let it be remembered they were not confined to the militia in the last war, nor to those between the militia of the states, and the national forces ; but that they eii?ted in some departments of the United States' army itself. The northern campaign of 1813, is not forgotten, nor the * Failure of our arms on the Northern Froii' tier^ erased from recollection. Gen. Wilkinson de- clares in a General Order — " The Commander in Chief is compelled to retire, [from the Canadian shore,] by the extraordinary, unexampled, and it appears, unwarrantable conduct of Major General Hampton, in refusing to join this army with a divi- sion of 4000 men under his command, agreeable to positive orders from the Commander in Chief." 82 MEMOIRS OF - The brilliant victory at Tallushatches, and the total defeat of the savages, from which, to use the lan^uas^e of Gen. Co/Tee, " not one of the warriors escaped to tell the news" induced Gen. Jackson to take the most efficient measures to follow up the encouraging success the army had met with, by more important operations. To accomplish this, he sent an express upon Nov. 4th, (the date of his first official account,) to Brig. Gen. White, of Gen. Cockers division, who was only twenty-five miles distant, ordering him with the troops in his com- mand, to form a junction with him at Fort Strot her, which he had established as a depot. His object in forming this junction, was to augment his forces to such an amount, as to enable him to go forward with confidence in attacking the enemy, and leave a force in the rear sufficient to protect the sick and guard the baggage. Although he had twice before sent similar orders, not a word of intelligence was received from him. Upon the Tth, he dispatched another express. Upon this day information was received by Gen. Jackson, that a fortress of friendly Indians at Talladega, thirty miles distant from Fort Strother, was in imminent danger of total destruc- tion, and the natives to indiscriminate massacre, by the hostile Creeks. They had espoused the cause of the Americans ; and of course had incurred all the ventjeful malice which natural ferocity, increas- ed by religious fanaticism, could feel towards them. ANDREW JACKSON. 83 They were surrounded by a numerous body of in- furiated Creeks. Their runners beseeched General Jackson to relieve them from their perilous situation. The same sentiment that induced the general to ha- zard his reputation in protecting his countrymen at Natchez, induced him, without hesitation, to extend protection to those faithful natives, whose fate was identified with the success or defeat of the American arms. He commenced his march, commanding in person, at 12 o'clock in the evening. He despatch- ed another express to Gen. White, to repair that night to Fort Strother, and protect it in his absence. To his inexpressible surprise, in a short time he re- ceived a message from him that he had, agreeable to Ms order, commenced a march to Fort Strother, but that he had received counter orders from Maj. Gen. Cocke, to join him at Chatuga creek! — and that he should obey him ! A situation m.ore embarrassing can hardly be imagined. His sick and baggage in his rear, liable every moment to destruction — the friendly Creeks in his front in momentary danger of annihilation. The hour of decision had come. Relying upon the gallantry of his troops — knowing the justice of his cause, and hoping for the protection of heaven, he rapidly advanced upon the enemy, ii;;norant of their force. The result I give in the general's own lan- guage. '0- 84> MEarems or MAJ. GEN. JACKSON TO GOV. BLOUNT. Camp Str other, near Ten Islands of Coosa, Nov» llth, 1813» Sir,—! am just returneil from an excursion which I took a few days ago, and hasten to acquaint you with the result. Late on the evening of the 7th ir»st. a runner ar- rived from the friendly party in Lashley's Fort, (Talladega,) distant about thirty miles below us, with the information that the hostile Creeks, in great force, had encamped near the place, and were preparing to destroy it ; and earnestly entreated that I would lose no time in affording them relief. Urged by their situation, as well as by a wish to meet the enemy as soon as an opportunity would offer, I determined upon commencing my march thither with all my disposable force, in the course of the night; and immediately despatched an ex- press to Gen. White, advising him of my intended movement, and urged him to hasten to this encamp- ment by a forced march, in order to protect it in my absence. I had repeatedly written to the gene- ral, to form a junction with me as speedily as prac- ticable, and a few days before had received his as- surance, that on the 7ih he would join me. I com- menced crossing the river at the Ten Islands, leav- ing behind me my baggage waggons and whatever mi^^ht retard my progress, and encamped that night within six miles of the fort I had set oui to relieve. ANDREW JAwn, and I was happy in the opportunity of keep- 112' 3IEM0rilS ©F ing my men engaged, distressing the enemy, and ac the same time making a diversion to facilitate the operations of Gen. Floyd. Determined by these and other considerations, T took up the line of march on the ITth inst. and on the 18th encamped at Talladega Fort, where I was joined by between 2 and 300 friendly Indians; 65 of whom were Cherokees, the balance Creeks. Here I received your letter of the 9th inst. stating that Gen. Floyd was expected to make a move- ment from Cowetau the next day, and that in 10 days thereafter he would establish a firm position at Tuckbatchee; and also a letter from Col. Snod- grass, who had returned to Fort Armstrong, inform- ing me that an attack was intended to be soon made on that fort, by 900 of the enemy. If I could have hesitated before, I could now hesitate no longer. I resolved to lose no time in meeting this force, which was understood to have been collected from New Yorcau, Oakfuskie, and Ufauley towns, and v/ere coDcent rated in a bend of the Tallapoosa, near the mouth of a creek, called Emuckfau, and on an isl- and below New Yorcau. On the morning of the 20tb, your ietter of the 10th inst. forwarded by M'Candles, reached me at the Hillahee creek ; and that night I encamped at Enotachopco, a small Hillabee village, about 12- seniles from Emuckfau. Here I began to perceive yery j^lainly how little knowledge my spies had of ANDREW JACKSON. 113 the country, of the situation of the enemj^, or of the distance I was from them. The insubordina*- tion of the new troops, and the want of skill in most of their officers, also became more and more apparent. But their ardour to meet the enemy was not diminished ; and I had sure reliance upon the guards, and upon the company of old volunteer officers, and upon the spies, in all about 125, My wishes and my duty remained united, and I was determined to effect, if possible, the objects for which the excursion had been principally under- taken. On the morning of the 21st, I marched from ^notachopco, as direct as I could for the bend of the Tallapoosa, and about 2 o'clock, P. M. my spies having discovered two of the enemy, endeavoured to overtake them, but failed. In the evening I fell in upon a large trail, which led to a new road, much beaten, and lately travelled. Knowing that I must have arrived within the neighbourhood of a strong force, and it being late in the day, I determined to encamp, and reconnoitre the country in the night* I chose the best site the country would admit, en- camped in a hollow square, sent out my spies and pickets, doubled my sentinels, and made the neces- sary arrangements before dark, for a night attack. About 10 o'clock at night, one of the pickets fired at three of the enemy, and killed one, but he was not found until the next day. At 11 o'clock, the K 2 114 MEMOIRS OF Spies vvhora I had sent out, returned with the infor- mation, that there was a large encampment of In- dians at the distance of about three miles, who, from their whooping and dancing, seemed to hv apprized of our approach. One of these spies, an Indian, in whom I had great confidence, assured me that thejr were carrying oif their women and children, and' that the warriors would either make their escape, or attack me before day. Being prepared at all points, nothing remained to be done but to await their approach, if they meditated an attack, or to be in readiness, if they did not, to pursue and attack them at day light. While we were in this state of readiness, the enemy, about 6 o'clock in the morn^ ing, commenced a vigorous attack on my left flank,, which was vigorously met : the action continued to rage on ray left flank, and on the left of my rear, for about half an hour. The brave Gen. CoA'cCj with Col. Sitto, the adjutant-general, and Col. Car- roll, the inspector-general, the moment the firing commenced, mounted their horses and repaired to the linCj encouraging and animating the men to the performance of their duty. So soon as it became light enough to pursue, the left wing having suS' tained the heat of the action, and being somewhat weakened, was reinforced by Capt. FerrilPs compa» ay of infantry, and was ordered and led on to the charge by Gen. CoSeCy who was weli' supported by Col", Higgtns aad the inspector-general, and by al!/ ANDREW JACKSON. 115s ?he officers and privates who composed that line. The enemy was completely routed at every pointy and the friendly Indians joining in the pursuit, they were chased about two miles with considerable slaughter. The chase being over, I imuiediately detached Gen. Coflee with 400 men, and all the Indian force^ to burn their encampment ; but it was said by some to be fortified. I ordered him in that event, not to attack it until the artillery could be sent forward to reduce it. On viewing the encampment and its strength, the general thought it most prudent to return to my encampment, and guard the artillery thither. The wisdom oi this step was soon discov- ered — in half an hour after his return to camp, a Gocsiderable force of the enemy made its appear- ance on my right fiank, and commenced a brisk fire on a party of men, who had been on picket guard the night before, and were then in search of the In- dians they had fired upon, some of whom they be- lieved had been killed. Gen. CofiTee immediately requested me to let him take 200 men, and tura their left flank^ which I accordingly ordered; but, through some mistake, which I did not then observe,. Hot more than 54 followed him, among whom were the old volunteer officers. With these, however, he immediately commenced an attack on the left Bank of the enemy ; at which time I ordered 200 of the friendly Indians, to fall in upon the right fiank of 116 MEMOins OP the enemy, and co-operate with the general. This order was promptly obeyed, and on the moment of its execution, what I expected was realized. The enemy had intended the attack on the right as a feint, and expecting to direct all my attention thither, meant to attack me again, and with their main force, on the left flank, which they had hoped to find weakened and in disorder — they were dis- appointed. I had ordered the left flank to remain firm in its place, and the moment the alarm gun was heard in that quarter, I repaired thither, and ordered Capt. Ferrill, part of my reserve, to sup- port it. The whole line met the approach of the enemy with astonishing intrepidity, and having given a few fires, they forthwith charged with great vigour — the effect was immediate and inevitable. The enemy fled with precipitation, and were pur- sued to a considerable distance, by the left flank and the friendly Indians, with a galling and de- structive fire. Col. Carroll, who ordered the charge, led on the pursuit, and Col. Higgins and his regi- ment again distinguished themselves. In the mean time, Gen. Cofi'ee was contending with a superior force of the enemy. The Indians who I had ordered to his support, and who had set out for this purpose, hearing the firing on the left, had returned to that quarter, and when the enemy were routed there, entered into the chase. That being now over, I forthwith ordered Jim Fife, who ANDREW JACKSON. IIT was one of the principal commanders of the friend- iy Creeks, with 100 of his warriors, to execute my first order. So soon as he reached Gen. Coffee, the charge was made, and the enemy routed ; they were pursued about three miles, and 45 of them slain, who were found. Gen, Coffee was wounded in the body, and his aid-de-camp, A. Donaldson^ killed, together with three others. Having brought in and buried the dead, and dressed the wounded, I ordered my camp to be fortified, to be the better prepared to repel any attaclt which might be made in the night, determined to make a return march to Fort Strother the following day. Many causes concurred to make such a measure necessary, as I had not set out prepared, or with a view to make a permanent establishment. I considered it \^orse than useless to advance, and destroy an empty en- campment. I had, indeed, hoped to have met the enemy there, but having met and beaten them a little sooner, I did not think it necessary or prudent to proceed any farther— not necessary, because I had accomplished all I could expect to effect by marching to their encampment ; a.nd because if it was proper to contend with and weaken their forces still farther, this object would be more certainly attained, by commencing a return, which having to them the appearance of a retreat, would inspirit them to pursue me. Not prudent — because of the member of my wounded ; of the reinforcemeot^ 118 MEMOIRS OF from below, which the enemy might be expected to receive ; of the starving condition of my horses, they having had neither corn nor cane for two days and nights ; of the scarcity of supplies for my men, the Indians who joined me at Talladega having drawn none, and being wholly destitute ; and be- cause if the enemy pursued me, as it was likely they would, the diversion in favour of Gen. Floyd would be the more complete and eifectual. Influ- enced by these considerations, I commenced my return march, at half after ten on the 23d, and was fortunate enough to reach Enotachopco before night, having passed without interruption, a dangerous defile occasioned by a hurricane. I again fortified my camp, and having another defile to pass in the morning, across a deep creek, and between two hills which I had viewed with attention as 1 passed on, and where I expected I might be attacked, 1 de- termined to pass it at another point, and gave di- rections to my guide and fatigue men accordingly. My expectation of an attack in the morning was increased by the signs of the night, and with it my caution. Before I moved the wounded from the interior of my camp, I had my front and rear guards formed, as well as my right and left columns, and moved ofi^ my centre in regular order, leading down a handsome ridge to Enotachopco creek, at a point where it was clear of reed, except immediately on its margin. I had previously issued a general order, ANDREW JACKSON. 119 pointing out the manner in whicti the men should be formed in the event of an attack on the front or rear, or on the flanks, and had particularly caution- ed the officers to halt and form accordingly, the instant the word should be given. The front guard had crossed with part of the flank columns, the wounded were over, and the ar- tillery in the act of entering the creek, when an alarm gun was heard in the rear. I heard it with- out surprise, and even with pleasure, calculating with the utmost confidence on the firmness of my troops, from the manner in which I had seen them act on the 22l\. T had placed Col. Carroll at the head of the centre column of the rear guard ; its right column was commanded by Col. Perkins, and its left by Col. Stump. Having chosen the ground, I expected there to have entirely cut oiT the enemy, by wheeling the right and left columns on their pi- vot, recrossing the creek above and below, and fall- ing in upon their flanks and rear. But to my aston- ishment and mortification, when the word was given by Col. Carroll to halt and form, and a few guns had been fired, I beheld the right and left columns of the rear guard precipitately give way. This shameful retreat was disastrous in the extreme ; it drew along with it the greater part of the centre column, leaving not more than 25 men, who being formed by Col. Carroll, maintained their ground as long as it was possible to maintain it ; and it i^O MEMOIRS OF brought consternation and confusion into the centre of the army ; a consternation which was not easily removed, and a confusion which could not be soon restored to order. There was then ieft to repulse the enemy, the few who remained of the rear guard, the artillery company, and Capt. Russei^s company of spies. They however, realized, and exceeded, my liighest expectations. Lieut. Armstrong, who commanded the artillery company in the absence of Capt. Deaderick, (confined by sickness,) order- ed them to form and advance to the top of the hill, whilst he and a few others dragged up the six pounder. Never was more bravery displayed than on this occasion. Amidst the most galling fire from the enemy, more than ten times their number, they ascended the hill, and maintained, their posi- tion until their piece was hauled up, when having levelled it, they poured upon the enemy a fire of grape, reloaded and fired again, charged and re- pulsed them. The most deliberate bravery was displayed by Constantine Perkins and Craven Jackson, of the artillery, acting as gunners. In the hurry of the moment, in separating the gun from the limbers, the rammer and picker of the cannon was left tied to the limber. No sooner was this discovered, than Jackson, amidst the galling fire of the enemy, pulled out the ramrod of his musket and used it as a picker ; primed with a cartridge and fired the ANDREW JACKSON. 121 cannon. Perkins having pulled off his bayonet, used his musket as a rammer, drove down the cart- ridge; and Jackson using his former plan, again discharged her. The brave Lieut. Armstrong, just after the first fire of the cannon, with Capt. Ham- ilton of East Tennessee, Bradford and M'Gavock, all fell, the Lieut, exclaiming as he lay, <» my brave fellows^ some of you may fall, but you must save the cannon,''^ About this time, a number crossed thf creek and entered into the chase. The brave Capt. Gordon of the spies, who rushed from the front, endeavoured to turn the flank of the enemy, in which he partially succeeded, and Col. Carroll, Col. Higgins, and Capts. Elliot and Pipkins, pursu- ed the enemy for more than two miles, who fled in consternation, throwing away their packs, and leav- ing 26 of their warriors dead on the fi<.'ld. This last defeat was decisive, and we were no more disturbed by their yells. I should do injustice to my feelings if I omitted to mention that the venerable Judge Cocke, at the age of 65, entered into the engage- Dient, continued the pursuit of the enemy with youthful ardour, and saved the life of a fellow sol- dier, by killing his savage antagonist. Our loss in this affair was — killed and wounded, among the former was the brave Capt. Hamilton from E. Tennessee, who had with his aged father and two others of his company, after the period of his engagement had expired, volunteered his servi- L 122 ' MEMOIRS Of "^ ces for this excursion, and attached himself to the artillery company. No man ever fought more bravely, or fell more gloriously ; and by his side fell with equal bravery and glory. Bird Evans of the same company. Capt. Quarles, who command- ed the centre column of the rear guard, preferring death to the abandonment of his post, having taken a firin stand in which he was followed by 25 of his men, received a wound in his head of which he ha« since died. In these several engagements, our loss was 20 killed and 75 wounded, 4 of whom have since died. The loss of the enemy cannot be accurately ascer- tained ; 189 of their warriors were found dead ; but this must fall considerably short of the number really killed. Their wounded can only be guessed at. Had it not been for the unfortunate retreat of the rear guard in the affair of the 24ith inst. I think I could safely have said, that no army of militia ever acted with more cool and deliberate bravery : un- disciplined and inexperienced as they were, their cond'act in the several engagements of the 22d, could not have been surpassed by regulars. No men ever met the approach of an enemy with more intrepidity, or repulsed them with more energy. On the 24;th, after the retreat of the rear guard, they seemed to have lost ail their collectedness, and were more difficult to be restored to order, than ANDREW JACKSON. 123 any troops I had ever seen. But this was no doubt, owing in a great measure, or allogetherj to that very retreat, and ought rather to be ascribed to the want of conduct in many of their officers, than any cowardice in the men, who on every occasion, have manifested a willingness to perform their duty so far as they knew it. All the effects which were designed to be pro- duced by this excursion, it is believed have been produced. If an attack was meditated against Fort Armstrong, that has been prevented. If General Floyd is operating on the east side of the Tallapoo- sa, as I suppose him to be, a most fortunate di- version has been made in his favour. The number of the enemy has been diminished, and the confi- dence they may have derived from the delays I have been made to experience, has been destroyed. Discontent has been kept out of my army, while the troops who would have been exposed to it, have been beneficially employed. The enemy^s country has been explored, and a road cut to the point where their force will probably be concentrated, when they shall be driven from the country below. But in a report^ of this kind, and to you who will immediately perceive them, it is not necessary to state the happy consequences which may be ex- pected to result from this excursion. Unless I am greatly mistaken, it will be found to have hastened the termination of the Creek war, more effectually I24i , MEMOIRS OF than any measure I could have taken with the troops under my command. I am, Sir, with sentiments of high respect, your obedient servant, ANDREW JACKSON, Maj. Gen. When it is considered what troops Gen. Jackson had to command, and what enemies he had to fight, the two victories at Eiiiuck/aw, on the 22d, and the signal one of Enotachopco, on the 24th, will bear a comparison with any in modern warfare. The Hberal applause the general bestows upon the brave, and the excuse he finds for those whose " retreat ought rather to be ascribed to the want of conduct in )nany of their officers, than to any cowardice in, the men,^^ must endear him for ever to the soldier. The ^^ venerable Judge Cocke^^ (who survived,) and •*« the brave Lieut, Jrmstrong,^^ and Capts. Hamilton and Quarles, (who all fell,) are placed, by th€ gen- eral's report, upon the rolls of fame. ANDREW JACKSON. 125 CHAPTER IX. Gen. Jackson prepares for a new expedition— receives an account of the victory at Chatahouchee— adopts a new mode to obtain sup- plies—Army Contractors—Energetic measures— Great victory at Tohopeka — Savage warfare — British and Spanish emissaries. The solicitude evinced by Gen. Jackson, in his report, incorporated in the last chapter, for the safe- ty, security, and success of Gen. Floyd, could not have escaped the attention of the reader. It must have been greatly diminished by the signal victo- ries he therein so perspicuously describes ; but this did not induce him to remit any of his customary vigilance, or to omit any measure necessary to secure the advantage he had gained. He had ^^ scotched the snake, not killed him," Gen. Jackson had now with him his beloved as- sociates, Brig. Gen. Coffee, Col. Dyer, Col. Carroll, Maj. Reid, (his aid,) and many other accomplished and patriotic officers. The disaffected officers had either ret i&ed to that obscurity which was their on- ly safety, or remained envious spectators of that ex- cellence which they could not reach, and detractors of those great men, whose gallant exploits they had not the courage to achieve. He hud a band of new volunteers, who had suddenly become veterans, and 126 MEMOIRS OF familiarized with victory. But still his force was inadequate to the complete accomplishm^^nt of his primary object — the effectual subjection of the Creeks. He knew that the government of the American Republic had inviolably regarded all treaties made, and performed every stipulation en- tered into with them. He knew, and he lamented, the infatuation under which they acted ; and re- gretted that a race of beings, possessing the most exalted courage, should become victims in subser- ving the cause of the British and Spanish monarchs. But his duty to his country was, with him, para- mount to every other consideration ; and he was re- solved, as long as the last glimmer of hope remain- ed unextinguished, not to despair of the common- wealth. After the victories of the 22d and 24th, he and his officers were incessantly engaged in disciplining the forces with them, and incorporating into the little army such recruits as arrived. Theec duties were entirely different from those belonging to offi- cers in the regular army, at a well appointed can- tonment. There, the commanding and subordinate officers have specific duties to perform; and the soldiers, so far from thinking of disobedience, or plotting mutinies, scarcely utter a complaint. Gen. Jackson had never yet commanded such a body of men, in such a situation. His subordinate officers liad been his companions, and his volunteers had ANDREW JACKSON. , 127 been his fellow citizens. He had depended more upon the weight of his character, and his devotion to the service, than upon military authority, to ac- complish what he had done. He had, in many in- stances, found that the most urgent entreaties, and the most energetic remonstrances, were ineiiectwal, and was now resolved to exercise the authority which was vested in him. While he was exerting every faculty which native energy and military authority enabled him to call into operation, to prepare for more important meas- uresv he was highly gratified at receiving the most favourable intelligence from the Georgia forces un- der Brig. Gen. Floyd. That ofiicer was stationed, with his troops, at Camp Defiance, 50 miles west of Chatahouchee, Up- on the 2rth January, he was assailed very early, by a numerous horde of savages. The sentinels were suddenly driven in, and a most desperate attack was commenced upon the lines. Geii. Floyd thus de- scribes the engagement. «' The steady firmness and incessant fire of Capt. Thomas's artillery, and Capt Adams's riflemen, pre- served our front line: both of these sufiered greatly. The enemy rushed within 30 yards of the artillery, and Capt« Broadnax, who commanded one of the picket guards, maintained his post with great brave- ry, until the enemy gained his rear, and then cut his 128 MEMOIRS OF way through them to the army. On this occasion, Timpoochie Barnuel, a half breed, at the head of the Uchies, distinguished himself, and contributed to the retreat of the picket gaard: the other friendly Indians took refuge within our lines and remained inactive, with the exception of a few who joined our ranks. So soon as it became light enough to distin- guish objects, I ordered Majors Watson's and Free- man's battalions, to wheel up at right angles, with Majors Booth's and Cleveland's battalions, (who formed the right v^ing,) to prepare for the charge. Capt. Duke Hamilton's cavalry, (who had reached me but the day before,) was ordered to form in the rear of the right wing, to act aS circumstances should dictate. The order for the charge was promptly obeyed, and the enemy fled in every direction before the bayonet. The signal was given for the charge of the cavalry, who pursued, and sabred 15 of the enemy ; who left 37 dead on the field. From the effusion of blood, and the number of head-dresses and war-clubs found in various directions, their loss must have been considerable, independent of the wounded. I directed the friendly Indians, with Merriweth- er's and Ford's rifle companies, accompanied by Capt Hamilton's troop, to pursue them through Callibee swamp, where they were trailed by their blood, hut succeeded in overtaking but one of their wounded. ANDREW JACKSON.. 129 Colonel Newman received three balls in the com- mencement of the action, which deprived me of the services of that gallant and useful officer. The as- sistant Adjt. Gen. Narden, was indefatigable in the discharge of his duty, and rendered important ser- vices : his horse was wounded under him. The whole of the staff was prompt, and discharged their duty with courage and fidelity : their vigilance, the intrepidity of the officers, and the firmness of the men, meet my approbation, and deserve the praise of their country. I have to regret the death of many of my brave fellows, who have found hon- ourable graves in the voluntary support of their country. My aid-de-camp, in executing my orders, had his horse killed under him. Gen. I^ee and Maj. Pace, who acted as additional aids, rendered me essential services, with honour to themselves, and usefulness to the cause in which they have embark- ed. Four waggon, and several other horses were killed, and two of the artillery horses wounded. While I deplore the losses sustained on this occa- sion, I have the consolation to know, that the men who I have the honour to command, have done their duty." The loss of the Americans in this battle, was 17 killed, and 132 wounded. General Jackson found 130 SIEMOIRS OF that one great object of his last brilliant expediliot?, was effected — the relief of the Georgia militia. It was now the 1st of February, 1814 General Jackson's forces were at Fort Strother, where, al- though in no immediate danger of famine, there was by no means a supply for any length of time. Gen. Jackson, ever since he had commanded the army in the Creek country, had had his attention diverted from the great object of a generaf — the organization of his army — the introduction of cor- rect discipline, and preparation for active service. Indeed, he had to perform the duty of Commissary, Quarter- Master, and Commander. Washington was often in his situation in the war of the Revolu- tion. He could find an excuse for his countrymen^ in the then destitute state of the country ; but for the contractors for the southern army in 1814, there was no excuse. In a country abounding in beeves, swine, and bread stuffs, an army had often been driven to mutiny and desertion, through the ap- prehension of want. There is, probably, not an officer in the American service, but who will con- demn the mode of supplying an army by contrac- tors. They make the best terms they can with the government for themselves ; the hardest possible terms for the seller of provisions ; and often furnish the war-worn veteran with rations deficient in quan- tity, and miserable in quality. They think of no- thing but gaining a fortune, while the gallant so!- ANDREW JACKSON. 131 diers who are suffering by their frauds, and famish- ing by their avarice, are gaining victories for their country. Gen. Jackson, who may emphatically be called the Soldier's Patron, had suffered too much, with his brave soldiers, for longer endurance. He sup- plied his army by his own agents, leaving the con- tractors to pay the expense. When no longer any cause existed for complaints in his camp, he silenced them. He caused a mutineer to be tried by a court martial ; and when condemned to die, he approved of the sentence, and he suffered death. He ordered every officer to be arrested within his command, who should be found exciting mutiny or disobedi- ence. He knew that a crisis had arrived when a great blow must be struck, or the expedition aban- doned. The Creeks had assembled in very great force at the bend of the Tallapoosa, at a place called by the savages, Tohopeka — by the Americans, The Horse Shoe, At this place, the most desperate resistance was expected ; and every measure, within the lim- ited means of General Jackson, was resorted to, to meet it. The 39th regiment U. S. infantry, under the command of '* the intrr.pid and skilful Colonel IVil- liamsy'^ had been ordered to join the army under Gen. Jackson. It did not exceed 600 men. By the middle of March, his whole force amounted to 132 MEMOIRS OF between 3 and 4000. He then .t^ommenced his march. Upon the 21st, he established a fort at the mouth of Cedar creek, and named it Fort /FiZ- liams. Leaving a sufficient force to protect it, he renewed his march upon the 24th. Upon the 27'th, a day which wiji be remembered in the traditional annals of the brave, the infatuated, the blood- thirsty Creeks, until they become extinct, General Jackson and his army reached Tohopeka. The events of that day, are thus briefly detailed by the commander. Battle Ground^ Bend of Tallapoosaf 28th March, 1814. Maj. Gen. Pinckney, Sir, — I feel particularly happy in being able to commiMiicate to you, the fortunate evenluation of my expedition to the Tallapoosa. I reached the head, near the Emuckfau, called by the whites the Horse Shoe, about 10 o'clock, on the forenoon of yesterday, where I found the strength of the neigh- bonring towns collected. Expecting our apjToach, they had gathered in from Oakfuskie, Oakehoga, New Yorcau, Hillabees, the Eish Pond, and Eufau- lee towns, to the number, it is said, of 1000. It is diflicult to conceive a situation more eligible for de- fence than the one they had chosen, or one rendered more secure by the skill with which they had erect- ed their breast- work. It was from 5 to 8 feet high. ANODREW JACKSOK. IS^ mid extended across the point in such a direction, as that a force approaching it would be exposed to a double fire, while they lay in perfect security be- hind. A cannon, planted at one extremity, could have raked it to no advantage. Determining to exterminate them, I detached Gen. CoiTee, with the mounted men, and nearly the whole of the Indian force, early on the morning of yesterday, to cross the river, about two miles below their encampment, and to surround the bend in such a manner, as that none of them should escape by attempting to cross the river. With the infant- ry, I proceeded slowly, and in order, along the point of land which led to the front of their breast- work : having planted my cannon, one 6 and one 3 pounder, on an eminence, at the distance of 150 to 200 yards from it, I opened a very brisk fire, play- ing upon the enemy with muskets and riftes, when- ever they shewed themselves beyond it. This was kept up, with short interruptions, for about two hours, when a part of the Indian force, and Capt. RusselPs and Lieut. Bean's company of spies, who had accompanied Gen. Coffee, crossed over in canoes to the extremity of the bend, and set fire to a few of the buildings which were there situated : they then advanced with great gallantry towards the breast-work, and commenced a spirited fire upon the enemy behind it. Finding that this force, notwithstanding the M 134i MEMOIRS OF bravery they displayed, was wholly insufficient to dislodge them, and that Gen. Coffee had entirely secured the opposite bank of the river, I now de- termined to take it by storm. The men by whom this was to be effected, had been waiting with im- patience to receive the order, and hailed it with acclamation. The spirit which animated them, was a sure au- gury of the success which was to follow. The his- tory of warfare, I think, furnishes few instances of a more brilliant attack. The regulars, led on by their intrepid and skilful commander, Col. Williams, and by the gallant Maj. Montgomery, soon gained possession of the works, in the midst of a most tre- mendous fire from behind them ; and the militia of the venerable Gen. Doherty*s brigade, accompanied them in the charge with a vivacity and firmness which would have done honour to regulars. The enemy were completely routed. Five hundred and fifty-seven were left dead on the peninsula, and a great number were killed by the horsemen in at- tempting to cross the river: it is believed that not more than 20 have escaped. The fighting continued with some severity about 5 hours, but we continued to destroy many of them who had concealed themselves under the banks of the river, until we were prevented by the night This morning we killed 16, who had been concealed. We took about 250 prisoners^ all women and chil- ANDREW JACKSON, 135 dren, except two or three. Our loss is 160 wound- ed, and 25 killed. Maj. M'Intosh, (the Cowetau,) who joined my army with a part of his tribe, great- ly distinguished himself. When I get an hour's leisure, I will send you a more detailed account. According to my original purpose, I commenced my return march to Fort Williams to-day, and shall, if I find sufficient supplies there, hasten to the Hick- ory Ground. The power of the Creeks is, I think, for ever broken. I send you a hasty sketch, taken by the eye, of the situation on which the enemy were encamped, and of the manner in which I approached them. I have the honour to be, &c. ANDREW JACKSON, Maj. Gen. Maj. Gen. Pinckney. The loss of the Americans, added to the whole loss of the friendly Indians, was 54 killed and 156 wounded. In communicating the result of this victory, with- out a parallel, to the War Department, Gen. Pinck- ney elegantly and impressively observes,—'* While the sigh of humanity will escape, for this profuse effusion of human blood, which results from the savage principle of our enemy, neither to give nor accept quarter; and while every American will deeply lament the loss of our meritorious fellow sol- diers who have fallen in this contest, we have ample 136 MEMOIRS OF cause of gratitude to the giver of all victory, for thus continuing his protection to our women, and children, who would otherwise be exposed to the in- discriminate havoc of the tomahawk, and all the horrors of savage warfare." The aged soldier who has been familiarized through life with civilized warfare, can form but an imperfect idea of war, as carried on by savages. Those who have passed their lives in the tranquil scenes of civil life, are still more incompetent to form a conception of its horrors. We can read its history and weep ; but were we to witness its tragi- cal scenes, even tears would be stopped, by the ghastly and appalling forms, in which death is pre- sented to the view of its victims. The writer has seen nothing of savage warfare, and but little of sav- age life in a state of peace ; but he can yet almost realize its horrors from impressions, never to be erad- icated, made upon his mind in the earliest stages of life. His venerated grandfather, Israel Putnam, ** seamed with many a scar,"^ by the knives and toma- hawks of savages, as he was treading the last steps that carried him to his tomb, related to his listening grand-children, the tortures he had borne from sav- ages, and his ^^hair breadth ^ scapes'^ from savage death. His accomplished Aid-de-camp, General Humphreys, has left them upon the page of Biog- raphy.* * Vide Humphreys' Life of Putnam, pages 67, 68, 69, 83, ANDREW JACKSON. 137 The severity of Gen. Jackson with the Creeks, has been a subject of severe animadversion with ma- ny who sympathize with savages, but who can rea- dily forget the indiscriminate slaughter at Tensawc Let such remember that at Fort Mimms in that set- tlement, the unoffending citizen was consumed by jgre— his beseeching wife and helpless children vvere, by the same tomahawk, in the same moment, inhu- manly murdered. And to make them withdraw their ill-placed sympathy, let them remember that the fate which there swallowed up the whole of the citizens, and the whole of their defenders, was de- clared to be the destiny of every American, within the reach of savage vengeance. Whatever injustice the Aborigines of America may have endured from Europeans in the early set- tlements of North America, they have no cause of complaint against the present generation of Anglo- Americans, who are citizens of the United States, nor against the government of the American Repub- lic. Mildness has marked the policy of individuals in their intercourse with the natives, and lenity and justice has characterized every measure of the Amer- ican administrations in regard to them, from the commencement of the government under the sainted Washington, to this period. While the state has protected them in the enjoyment of their temporal rights, the church has, with unceasing exertions, en- deavoured to convert them to Christianity. 138 MEMOIRS OF But every measure to introduce among them the arts of civilized life and the benign influence of Christianity, " to soothe the savage hreast^ has been thwarted by the poisonous influence of British and Spanish emissaries. Upon them, let a double por- tion of indignation be poured, as the guilty causes of the miseries inflicted by savages upon Americans, and of the almost total extinction of the Indians by the arm of power. Indubitable testimony will sup- port the assertion, that every Indian war in North America, from the treaty of peace in 1783, to this period, has been occasioned by foreign emissaries. Although the British government was compelled to acknowledge the independence of the American Republic, it has always endeavoured to check its rising greatness. They still hope to subjugate it to their dominion, by the power of their navy up- on the seaboard, and of their savage allies upon the frontiers; It would be a handsome accession to the power of the " legitimate sovereigns" of Europe, to behold George III. (or IV.) wielding the sceptre of power over North, and Ferdinand VII. over South America, ANDREW JACKSON. 139 CHAPTER X. Conclusion of the Creek war — Return of Gen. Jackson and VoIuB' teers — their reception and separation — Gen. Jackson is appointed Brigadier-General in U. S. army — also a Commissioner to treat with Creek Indians — concludes a treaty — Foreign emissaries — In- dian eloquence — Speech of Witherford— of Big Warrior — of Te- cumseb, and his death. Having accomplished the object of the expedi- tion to the Tallapoosa^ by the victory at Tohopeka, Gen. Jackson returned with his army to Fort Wil- liams, about the 1st of April. Incessant fatigue and arduous duty, had retarded the recovery of his health, and reduced him almost to a skeleton ; but the animation he felt at having effected, in a few months, what, from every former prospect, would have been supposed to need the exertion of years, made him forget his debility ; and his mind arose in majesty, as his body was emaciated by toil. Proud of the title " Commander of Tennessee VoU unteersj^ he rejoiced that they had retrieved the reputation they had recently tarnished by mutiny and disaffection. His object now was to form a junction with the forces of the state of Georgia, and either complete the extermination of the Creeks, or compel them to bury the tomahawk, and sue for peace. The HiU 140 MEMGIRS ©F labees, a clan of them, for reasons before mentioned, were the last to supplicate for mercy. The attack made upon them the 18th November, 1813, by Gen. White, when they were urgent to make peace with Gen. Jackson, rendered them desperate.— The remnants of all the tribes had assembled at Hothlewalee, in the Hickory Ground, Gen. Jackson with his forces, went in pursuit of them. But despair had now succeeded to fury, and the savages dispersed. The general prosecuted his march to the Hickory Ground, and on or about the 15th April, established a fort upon the Coosa^ near its confluence with the Tallapoosa, which was named Fort Jackson, This completed a line of posts through Tennessee, Georgia, and the Alabama Territory. The Georgia forces had formed a junction with the conquering general ; and upon the 20th April, Maj. Gen. Pinckney, commander in chief of Mili- tary Districts No. C and f, arrived at Fort Jackson, and assumed the command of the whole forces in the Creek country. Gen. Pinckney invited Gen. Jackson to his head quarters, where a splendid en- tertainment had been prepared. This emaciated and war-worn veteran, with some of his principal officers, partook of it with the Commander in Chief. To reciprocate the civility, the Conqueror of the Creeks, invited the Commander to dine with him at his marquee the next day. The simple diet ANDREW JACKSON. 141 that had sustained him and his gallant associates for months, was the bill of fare. It called to mind gloomy and proud recollections — the dish of rice, and draught of whiskey, had supported them in times of peril — they were now enjoyed in safety. Never, since the discovery of America, did an American officer leave the command of an army, to his superior officer, under circumstances more aus- picious, than did Maj. Gen. Jackson, of Tennessee Yolunteers, to Maj. Gen. Pinckney, of the U. S. army. He assumed the command of the troops, only to disband them. Their work was done, and wqW done: Gen. Jackson, for a number of weeks previous, had moved with his army, with the ce- lerity of lightning, and like that, had prostrated every thing that opposed them. He might have said with Ciesar, " Fentf vidi, vici" — I came — I saw — I conquered ! The panic-struck savages, who had been led by the wild incantations of their prophets, and the more guilty encouragement of foreign emissaries, to spread devastation, havoc, carnage, and death, among the unoffending American settlers, humbly prostrated themselves before their conquerors, and begged for that sparing mercy which it had been enjoined upon them never to extend. Fearing to raise a hand against a white man, these infatuated dasmons of the forest preyed upon each other ; and seemed to delight in bearing and inflict- 342 MEMOIRS Of ing tortures. The Creeks massacred every one of their tribe who were known to have attacked Fort Minims. Upon the 21st, the next day after Gen. Pinckney assumed the command, he ordered the Tennessee troops to be marched home, and discharged ; retain- ing, however, sufficient to garrison the established posts. Gen. Jackson immediately took measures to comply with the order. The following is Gen. Jackson's last communica* lion, as an officer in tlie military forces of Tennessee. Fort Williams^ April 25thy at night* Sir, — Gen. Pinckney joined me at Fort Jackson on the 20th. The enemy continuing to come in from every quarter, and it being now evident that the war was over, I received an order at 3 o'clock, P. M. on the 21st, to march my troops hack to Fort Williams, and after having dispersed any bodies of the enemy who may have assembled on the Cahaw- ba, or within striking distance, and provided for the maintenance of posts between Tennessee and Fort Jackson, to discharge the remainder. Within two hours after receiving this order, I was on the line of march ; and reached this place last evening, a distance of about sixty miles. To Brig. Gen. Doherty I shall assign the duty of keeping up the posts, which form the line of com* f ANDREW JACKSOH* '*** 14S munication between Tennessee and the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa, making the necessary arrangements to enable him to do so. About 400 of the E. Tennessee militia will be left at this place, 250 at Fort Strother, and 75 at Fort Armstrong and New Deposit. Old Deposit will be maintained by Capt. Hammond's company of rangers. To-morrow I detail 500 of the militia under the command of Brig. Gen. Johnson, to the Cahawba, with instructions to unite with me at Fort Deposit, after having dispersed any bodies of the enemy they may find there assembled. The commissioners who have been appointed to make a treaty with the Creeks, need have nothing to do but assign them their proper limits. Those of the friendly party, who have associated with me, will be easily satisfied ; and those of the hostile par- ty, they consider it a favour that their lives have been spared them, and will look upon any space that may be allowed them for their future settle- ment, as a bounteous donation. I have taken the liberty to point out what I think ought to be the future line of separation, with which I will hereaf- ter make you acquainted. If they should be estab- lished, none of the Creeks will be left on the west of the Coosa. Accompanying this, I send you a report made by the Adjutant-General, of the killed and wounded at 144 ?^ MEMOIRS OF the battle of Tohopeka, which was omitted to be sent by the former express. I have the honour to be, 8cc, ANDREW JACKSON. Hts Excellency Gov* IV, Blount, At the expiration of a few days he commenced a return march to his home, after an absence of eight months. If the sense of obligation bears any pro- portion to the benefits received, it may well be con- cluded that the people of Tennessee and Mississippi, must have been deeply impressed with the obliga- tions of gratitude to Gen. Jackson and his gallant volunteers. For twenty years, the frontier settlers had lived in a state of insecurity ; and since the commencement of the second war between the American Republic and the kingdom of Great-Brit- ain, in the most alarming apprehensions. Their danger was now removed, and their safety was secured. The spontaneous bursts of admira- tion and applause that were every where uttered, was more grateful to the feelings of Gen. Jackson, than ail the studied encomiums that could be be« stowed. Upon reaching Camp Blount, at Fayetteville, (Tenn.) the bond of union, which had been cement- ed by common danger and common toils, between the general and the volunteers, was dissolved. Hav- ing learned and discharged the duty of veteran sol- ANDREW JACKSON. 145 diersy they now reverted back to industrious citi- zens ; ready, at no distant period, to follow their beloved chief, to conquer a civilized, as they al- ready had done, a barbarous foe. While tears of pungent grief were shed at the recollection of their brave associates, who were left to moulder in the graves of the wilderness, those of exquisite joy flow- ed at the safety of their fathers, and the security of their homes. Gen. Jackson having very much exceeded the time for which he volunteered his service, and hav- ing accomplished vastly more than the most san- guine expectations could have anticipated, was about to retire to the repose of private life, which his debilitated state of health imperiously demand- ed. But the portentous clouds of war, which were constantly augmenting upon the southern borders of the Republic, rendered his services, if possible, more necessary than they had already been. About the 1st June, 1814, he was appointed Brigadier- General in the army of the United States. Before he was called upon to commence his mili- tary career in his new capacity, he was appointed a commissioner, to secure by negociation what he had already acquired by arras. To make a treaty, however, with Indians, can hardly be called negociation, as it is considered among civilized powers. The law of nations, which requires '< good faith" between the contracting par- N 14S MEMOIRS OF ties, is a code not recognized by American sava- ges. It is rather a contract of bargain and sale, with a penalty annexed for a breach of covenant. Col. Hawkins, who was appointed Indian Agent by Gen. Washington, and who has been in the agency ever since, was associated with Gen. Jackson in this mission. By the American forces, a complete conquest had been made of the whole Creek country ; and this conquest had been occasioned by flagrant breaches of treaty, and outrageous violations of humanity by the Creeks. Had the American government felt the cupidity, or exercised the power which the larger kingdoms of Europe manifest towards the smaller ones, the Creeks must either have fled from their country, or been reduced to vassalage, and their country itself would have been annexed to the R^^public. But its existence commenced upon the broad principles of national and individual jus- tice, and in the progress of its government, it has never deviated from them. The object of Gen. Jackson and the other com- missioners, was not so much to obtain new territo- ry, as to secure the acknowledged territory of the Republic, from the future depredations of Indian hostility. Upon the 10th August, 1814, a treaty was executed, which is before the public. It cut off the savages from all communication with the perpetual disturbers of our tranquillity, and secur- ANDREW JACKSON. 147 ed to the government such privileges in their coun- try, as will hereafter place the frontiers out of dan- ger from the Creaks, It will be seen in the sequel what measures were adopted by the government and Gen. Jackson to secure our country against other powerful tribes, who were in( iled by our arch and implacable ene- mies, to raise the tomahawk against our country- men, as they had already induced the unfortunate Creeks to do. Having often been obliged, from the nature of the subject, to allude to the unjustifiable and rep- rehensible conduct of British and Spanish emissa- lies, 1 am confident the reader will be gratified, in seeing the evidence furnished by the savages themselves. In presenting this evidence, I furnish at the same time specimens of Indian eloquence, which have never been equalled, unless by the speech of Lo^a?i, as found in Jefferson's Notes on Virginia. The first 1 oifer, is the speech of the ferocious Hither /ord, previously mentioned. His surrender to Gen. Jackson, reminds the historian of Corioianus and 4ufidius — of l h mistodes and a Per^ sian king- xVIagnanimity in each overcame ven- geance. WITHERFORd's speech to general JACKSON. ** I dm in your power— -do with me as you please. I am a soldier. I have done the white people all 148 MEMOIRS OF the harm I could ; I have fought them, and fought them bravely : If I had an army, I would yet fight, and contend to the last ; but I have none; my peo- ple are all gone. I can now do no more than weep over the misfortunes of my nation. Once I could animate my warriors to battle ; but I cannot ani- mate the dead. My warriors can no longer hear my voice ; their bones are at Talladega, TalluS' hatches, Emuckfau, and Tohopeka. I have not sur- rendered myself thoughtlessly. Whilst there were chances of success, I never left my post, nor sup- plicated peace. But my people are gone, and I now ask it for my nation and for myself. On the miseries and misfortunes brought upon my country, I look back with deepest sorrow, and wish to avert still greater calamities. If I had been left to con- tend with the Georgia army, I would have raised my corn on one bank of the river, and fought them on Ihe other; but your people have destroyed my nation. You are a brave man — I rely upon your generosity. You will exact no terms of a conquered people, but such as they should accede to; whatev- er they may be, it would now be madness and folly to oppose. If they are opposed, you shall find me amongst the sternest enforcers of obedience. Those who would still hold out, can be influenced only by a mean spirit of revenge; and to this they must not, and shall not sacrifice the last remnant of thtir coun- try. You have told us where we might go, and be ANDREW JACKSON. 149 safe. This is a good talk, and my nation, ought io listen to it. They shall listen to it." The second evidence, is the speech of*' The Big IVarrior,^^ before Gen. Jackson, Col. Hawkins, &c. It is with all the pleasure of delight, that I incor- porate this eloquent appeal to the magnanimity of our government, into this work. While it eulogi- zes the memory of our immortal political saviour GEOReE Washington, it also places Mr. Madison, in the most exalted station — the protector of the weak. It also repels the many insinuations which have been made against the long tried and faithful Indian agent. Col. Hawkins. It is but an ill requi- tal for the Jong seclusion in which the Agent has liv- ed ; and the pacific and salutary policy which he has pursued in the Creek agency, to have it hinted^ " that his ageney had lasted too long to hope that he would steadily pursue that course which the safety and interest of the country required.''^ But such is the fate of public functionaries in our Republic. James Monroe, and x\ndrew Jackson, than whom, more devoted patriots were never enrolled upon the re- cords of worth, have shared in public obloquy, as well as in public applause. Even this is not with- out its benefits. Jealousy is the shield of freedom, and results from the solicitude Americans feel for their sacred rights and liberties. These censures N2 150 MEMOIRS OF serve the same purpose in our Republic, as the dust that was, by order, cast by lictors upon th<^ he^ds of the returning conquerors of the Roman Repub- lic, when they were passing under triumphal arches. JBIG warrior's speech TO THE AMERICAN COMMISSIONERS. *^ The President, our father, advises us to hon- esty and fairness, and promises that justice shall be done; I hope and trust it will be! I made this war, which has proved so fatal to my country, that the treaty entered into a long time ago, with father Washington, might not be broken. To his friend- ly arm I hold fast. I will never break that chain of friendship we made together, and which bound us to stand to the United States. He was a father to the Muscoga people; and not only to them, but to all the people beneath the sun. His talk I now hold in my hand. There sits the agent* he sent among us. Never has he broken the treaty. He has lived with us a long time. He has seen our children born, who now have children. By his direction, cloth was wove, and clothes were made, and spread through our country ; but the Red Sticks came and destroyed all — we have none now. Hard is our situation, and you ought to consider it. I state what all the nation knows; nothing will I i[eep secret. * Col. HawkiflS'a ANDREW JACKSON. 151 r There is the Little Warrior, whom Col, Ham- kins knows. While we were giving satisfaction for the murders that had been committed, he proved a mischief-maker; he went to the British on the lakes ; he came back, and brought a package to the frontiers, which increased the murders here. This conduct has already made the war party to suiier greatly : but, although almost destroyed, they will not yet open their eyes, but are still led away by the British at Pe?isacola. Not so with us ; we were rational, and had our senses — we yet are so. In the war of the revolution, our father beyond the waters, encouraged us to join him, and we did so. We had no sense then. The promises he made were never kept. We were young and foolish, and fought with him. The British can no more per- suade us to do wrong: they have deceived us once, and can deceive us no more. You are two great people. If you go to war, we will have no concern in it ; for we are not able to fight. We wish to be at peace with every nation. If they offer me arms, I will say to them. You put me in danger, to war against a people born in our own land. They shall never force us into danger. You shall never see that our chiefs are boys in council, who will be forced to do any thing. I talk thus, knowing that father Washington advised us never to interfere in wars. He told us that those in peace were the hap- 152 IkfEMOIRS OF piest people. He told us that if the enemy attack- ed him, he had warriors enough, and did not wish his red cliildren to help him. If the British advise us to any thing, I will tell you — not hide it from you — If they say we must fight, I will lei I them, No!" I now present the reader with a speech of one of the greatest warriors of any age, of any nation, or of any colour — Tecumseh. It was this Sachem and Prophet, who had been educated at an English sem- inary in Canada^ who first infused into the Creeks the murderous principles he had learned from Eng- lish Christians. He returned to his own tribe, and prepared them for the crusade they were to make with their English * fathers' against Americans. In- fatuated chief! ! thy blood calls aloud from the ground for revenge against thy perfidious mislead- ers. The cowardice of Proctor was as base as his perfidy. The simple eloquence of this child of the forfst, is the bitterest satire, and the most vindic- tive judgment against the British nation. The In- dians of the East, as well as of the West, form a ** paramount inquest," whose sentence will reverse the judgment of the House of Lords in favour of Lord Hastings^ and raise indignation at the eulogies bestowed upon Sir George Frevost. ANDREW JACKSON. 153 SPEECH OF TECUMSEH, IN THE NAME OF THE INDIAN CHIEFS AND WARRIORS, TO MAJ, GEN. PROCTOR, AS THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THEIR GREAT FATHER,^ THE KING. ** Father— listen to your children ! You have thera now all before you. The war before* this, our British father gave the hatchet to his red children, when our old chiefs were alive. They are now dead. In that war our father was thrown on his back by the Americans, and our father took them by the hand without our knowledge ;f and we are afraid that our father will do so again at this time. Sum- mer before last, when I came forward with my red brethren, and was ready to take up the hatchet in favour of our British father, we were told not to be in a hurry — that he had not yet determined to fight the Americans. Listen ! -^\\ htn war was declared, our father stood up and gave us the tomahawk, and told us that he was now rea ly to strike the Americans; that he wanted our assistance; and that he certainly would get us our lands back, which the Americans had taken from us. Listenl-^Yon told us at that time, to bring for- ward our families to this place, and we did so; and you promised to take care of them, and that they * The revolutionary war. t The British made peace without any stipulation for their Indiat^ allies. 154j memoirs of should want for nothing, while the men would go and fight the enemy ; that we need not trouble our- selves about the enemy's garrisons; that we knew nothing about them ; and that our father would at- tend to that part of the business. You also told your red children, that you would take good care of your garrison here, which made our hearts glad. Listen! — When we were last at the rapids, it is true we gave you little assistance. It is hard to fight people who live like ground hogs.* Listen Father ! — Our fleet has gone out— we know they have fought — we have heard the great guns, but know nothing of what has happened to our fa- ther with one arni.j" Our ships have gone one way, and we are very uuich astonished, to see our father tying up every thing and preparing to run away the other, without letting his red children know what his intentions are. You always told us to remain here and take care of our lands — it made our hearts glad to hear that u as your wish. Our great father, the King, is the head, and you represent him. You always told us you would n« ver draw your foot off British ground ; but now, father, we s^e you are drawing back, and we are sorry to see our father doing so, without seeing the enemy. We must compare our father's conduct to a fat animal that * During the siege of Fort Meigs, the troops covered themselves from the enemy's fire, by throwing up traverses and ditcli^s of eartfa. t Commodore Barclay, ANDREW^ JACKSOIf. 155 carries its tail upon its back, but when affrighted it drops it between its legs, and runs oil'. Listen Father ! — The Araericnns iiave not yet defeated us by land ; neither are we sure that they have done so by water : we there fore wish to remain here and fight our enemy ^ should they muke their appearance. It" they defeat us, we will then retreat with our father. At the battle of the Rapids. last war, the Ameri- cans certainly defeated us; and when we retreated to our father's'^ fort at that place, the gates were shut against us. We uere afraid that it would now be the cas , hut instead of that, we see our British father preparing to march out of his garrison. Fathr! — You have got the arms and ammuni- tion v\ hii'h the great father sent for his red chil- dren. If you have any idea of going away, give them to us, and you may go, and welcome, for us. Oiir lives are in the hands of the Great Spirit— we are determined to defend our lands, and if it is his will, we wish to leave our bones upon them." Amherstburgh, ISth Sept. 1813. I present the reader with Maj. Thomas Rowland^ s (of the 27th U. S infantry,) accouTit oi the death of this great chief— <' Tecumseh is certainly killed — ^I saw him with my own eyes — it was the first time I had seen this celebrated chief. There was * Fort Miami, near Wayoe's battle groaocl. 156 MEMOIRS OF something so majestic, so dignified, and yet so mild in his countenance, as he lay stretched on his back, on the ground where a few minutes before he had rallied his men to the fight, that while gazing on him with admiration and pity, I forgot he was a savage. He had received a wound in the arm, and had it bound up before he received the mortal wound. He had such a countenance as I shall nev- er forget.** Major Rowland might have exclaimed, over the cor^ise of Tecumseh, as Henry V. did over that of Fercy^^ «* Lie there great heart — the earth that bears thee dead, ** Bears Dot alive so stout. **»**♦» .iKDREW JACKSON. l^f CHAPTER XL Spanish aggressions and perfidy — Gen. Jackson's measures to detect Manrequez, the Governor of Florida — his letter to hina — Danger of the 7th Military district — Gen. Jackson's appeal to the govern- ment — Mr. Monroe's measures of defence — Attack upon Fort Bow- yer — gallant defence of Major Lawrence'— his otficial report of iU The writer has attempted to shew the reader, the prominent features of Gen. Jackson's life, from his birth to the conchision of the Creek war. It is but a miniature, and if the figure is not finely touched, the delineations are confidently pronounced corrects To crowd a biographical sketch with minute de- tails of events, in which the subject of it has acted a conspicuous part, may swell a volume with a wil- derness oi ^^ words i words ^ words, ^^ Sind hide the he- ro of it, in the rubbish that entangles him. I cer- tainly have a wish, (it may be an unavailing one,) to keep Andrew Jackson in sighty through this little volume ; and although the deeply interesting scenes, in which he was the principal actor, must necessarily be adverted to, it is hoped the attention of the reader will not be diverted from the subject of these memoirs, by blending with his life, -hosC descriptions which more properly belong to the voluminous historian, than to the brief biographer. O 158 MEMOIRS OF Gen. Jackson, having conquered the most warlike tribe of savages within, and perhaps without the Republic, by the sword, and havini; secured to his government the benefit of the conquest by treaty, he was led, not into regular negociation, but into singular intercourse with a power that calls itself civilize d I It is painful to see a nation, which once held an elevated rank among European powers, sunk to the lowest state of degradation. Spain, in the reign of Philip, menaced by its armada^ the same British power, which has recently dragged its imbecile, but tyrannical monarch from the humblest exile, and placed him upon the Spanish throne. Strug- gling to regain the power of his predecessors, and trembling under the rod of his imperious mistress, he lends all his little aid in Europe and America, to subserve the interest of the British government. Knowing that the " holy alliance'* entered into in 1814, by the ** Allied Sovereigns," guarantees to each other their ancient colonies, Ferdinand VII. covertly gave every aid and facility to the British forces, in their last war against the American Repub- lic, once British colonies. This, Gen. Jackson full well knew during the prosecution, and at the close of the Crt^ek war. He knew that the governor of the Spanish province of Florida, although Spain was in a state of professed neutrality, either through fear of Britain, or hatred to America, had givers ANDREW JACKSON. 159 every assistance to the Indians in their sanguinary war against our frontiers. The peace he had conquered from the Creeks, he was aware would not be a permanent one, nor the treaty he had made regarded, so long as their hos- tile chiefs and warriors were fostered, protected, and encouraged to further hostilities, by the gover- nor of Florida, acting under his *' adored master," Ferdinand VII. He was determined, if possible, to secure to his country the benefit of the victories which he had acquired, by the loss of some of his valiant countrymen, and by the death of hundreds of Creeks, who fell victims to religious fanaticism, and British and Spanish machinations. Gen. Jackson is too cautious as a statesman, and too generous as a soldier, to trust to vague reports, and unsupported assertions, as grounds of important measures. While making a treaty with the Creeks, he dispatched some of his confidential officers to Ptnsacolai to observe the course pursued by Gonza- lez MafirequeZi the Spanish governor. From the Greeks also, he was receiving almost daily informa- tion of the perfidious conduct of this obsequious minister of the faithless Ferdinand. Upon the return of his officers, that which was before believed upon the strongest presumptive evidence, was m.w reduced to absolute certainty. Gen. Jackson, at this time, (Sept. 1814,) had received no instructions from the War Department, 160 MEMOIRS OF relative to the course to be pursued with the SpaK- ish authorities in Florida. He sent a direct mes- sage to Gov. Manrequez, requesting him to point out the course he was about to pursue. The cor- respondence that followed between him and Gen, Jackson, has long been before the public, and is too lengthy to be here inserted. The governor was less equivocal^ and more explicit than he had pre- viously been. He began to feel a strong assurance that the British government, which had restored his master to the throne, would support him in all his measures against the Republic. He knew that the legitimate sovereigns of Europe were safely en- throned, and that pride, as well as interest, would induce them to secure to Ferdinand VII. his South American colonies, and to endeavour to regain for George lU. the colonies he had lost in North. His language was confident, not to say imperious. He repelled the charges against himy by criminating the American government. The correspondence was closed by the following letter to him from Gen. Jackson. " Were I clothed, (says the general.) with diplo- matic powers, for the purpose of discussing the topics embraced in the wide range of injuries of which you complain, and which have long since been adjusted, 1 could easily demonstrate that the United Stales have been always faithful to their treaties ; ANDREW JACKSON. 161 steadfast in their friendships ; nor have ever claim- ed any thing that was not warranted by justice. They have endured many insults from the govern- ors and other officers of Spain, which if sanctioned by their sovereign, amounted to acts of war, with- out any previous declaration on the subject. They have excited the savages to war, and afforded them the means of waging it. The property of our citizens has been captured at sea, and if compen- sat ion has not been refused, it has at least been withheld. But as no such powers have been dele- gated to me, I shall not assume them, but leave them to the representatives of our respective gov- ernments. I have the honour of being entrusted with the command of this district. Charged vyith its pro- tection, and the safety of its citizens, I feel my ability to discharge the task, and trust your excel- lency will always find me ready and willing to go forward in the performance of that duty, whenever eircumstances shall render it necessary. 1 agree with you, perfectly, that candour and polite Ian* guage should, at all times, characterize the com- munications between the officers of friendly sove- reignties; and I assert, without the fear of con-^ tradiction, that my former letters were couched in terms the most respectful and unexceptionable. I only requested^ and did not demand^ as you assert- ed, the ringleaders of, the Creek confederacy, wh© 02 Ib2 MEMOIRS Oi- had taken refuge in your town, and who had vioia:- ted all laws, moral, civil, and divine. This I had a right to do, from the treaty which I sent you, and Avhich I now again enclose, with a request that you will change your translation; believing, as I do^. that your former one was wrong, and has deceived you. What kind of an answer you returned, a reference to your letter will explain. The whole of it breath- ed nothing but hostility, grounded upon assumed facts, and false charges, and entirely evading the inquiries that had been made. I can but express my astonishment at your pro- test against the cession on the Alabama, lying within the acknowledged jurisdiction of the United States, and which has been ratified, in due form, by the principal chiefs and warriors of the nation. But my astonishment subsides, when, on comparing it, i find it upon a par with the rest of your letter and conduct; taken together, they afford a sufficient justification for any consequences that may ensue. My government will protect every inch of her ter- ritory, her citizens, and her property, from insult and depredation, regardless of the political revolu- tions of Europe : and although she has been at all times sedulous to preserve a good understanding with all the world, yet she has sacred rights, that eannot be trampled upon with impunity. Spain ]ljad better look to her own intestine comjiiotions<. ANDREW JACKSON. Igg, before she walks forth in that majesty of strength and power, which you threaten to draw down upon the United States. Your excellency has been can- did enough to admit your having supplied the In- dians with arms. In addition to tliis, I have learn- ed that a British flag has been seen flying on one of your forts. Alt this is done whilst you are pretend- ing to be neutral. You cannot be surprised, then, but on the contra- ry will provide a fort in your town, for my soldiers and Indians, should I take it in my head to pay you a visit. In future, I beg you to withhold your, insulting charges against my government, for one more incli- ned to listen to slander than I am ; nor consider me any more as a diplomatic character, unless so proclaimed to you from the mouths of my cannon." It is with the highest pleasure I incorporate the foregoing letter into these memoirs ; and the reader will feel an exultation at knowing, that we have not only one, but many generals in the array of the Re- public, who unite the Statesman and the Soldier* Although Gen. Jackson, at the time he wrote it» was not clothed with diplomatic powers, he shews, in a few paragraphs, that he perfectly understands the points in controversy between the imbecile, yet haughty government of Spain, and the Americari Republic, Had he been a negociator ten years agOj 104 MEMOIRS OF it would probably not now be said that America has been thirteen years in trying to settle our difier- ences with Spain, and that she may from thence in- fer that we shall continue to be very moderate, in bringing the controversy to an amicable adjustment. The divine dictate that requires men to *' render good for evil,^' has not yet been added to the code of the Law of Nations ; and if our Republic is dis- posed to act upon that principle with the allied sovereigns of Europe, every one of whom are anx- ious to destroy it, we may as well surrender our in- dependence at once, and revert back to a tame and submissive colonial state. Gen. Jackson was now commander in chief of the rth military district, including the most important part of the southern section of the Union. It was now altogether the most endangered part of it. The splendid victories at Chippewa^ Bridgewater, Fort JErie, and PlattaOurg-h, had allayed all apprehension from British armies in the north. The defence of NcjV'London and Stonington^ New- York and Baltic more^ had robbed British "naval demonstrations" of their terrors, upon the eastern seaboard. The British admirals and British generals, were concen- trating their forces, with a determination to wipe off the disgrace which had with justice been attached to them — not so much from the defeats they had suffered, as from the Vandalism they had displayed la the Chesapeake Bay, upon the Niagara frontiers. ANDREW JACKSON. 165 and at the city of Washington. The utmost confi- dence was expressed by the British in America, of the success of this great and united effort of the ar» mies and navies of Britain ; and a British commis- sioner at Ghent, who at this time was negociating a peace with American commissioners, tauntingly remarked, that before they had time to conclude a peace, New-Orleans and the states upon the Missis- sippi, woakl be in possession of Sir Edward Packen- ham ! It is no more than candid to admit, that very se- rious apprehensions were entertained by Americans themselves, in regard to the safety of the southern section of the Union, or that part of it situated up- on the Gulf of Mexico, and near the mouth of the Mississippi. A very great proportion of the troops of the Republic and of the munitions of war, were in the northern, eastern, and middle states, at an im- mense distance from New-Orleans. The whole sea- board, from Castine to that place, was commanded by a superior naval force of the enemy, who could^ by that command, in a very short time, approach any " assailable point" upon the ocean. Sir George Prevost*s army of 14,000, were, in Lower Canada, burning to revenge the defeat they met with at Plattsburgh. I^arge reinforcements were known to have arrived from England in the West-Indies, un^ der the command of some of the most renowned generals in Wellington's army, and every indication 166 MEMOIRS OF evinced the determination of the whole land and naval forces of the enemy, upon the American sta- tion, to make a descent near the mouth of the Mis- sissippi. Many British officers had already arrived at Pen- sacola, about 70 miles east of Mobile Bay, on which Fort Bowyer is situated. Here they were received •with great cordiality by the governor, and suffered to embody and train savages. Gen. Jackson, about the first of September, addressed the War Depart- ment in the most pressing terms. In one of his let- ters, he says — '« How long will the United States pocket the reproach and open insults of Spain ? It is alone by a manly and dignified course, that we can secure respect from other nations, and peace to our own. Temporising policy is not oniy a disgrace, but a curse to any nation. It is a fact, that a Brit- ish captain of marines is, and has been, for some time, engaged in drilling and organizing the fugi- tive Creeks, under the eye of the governor; endea- vouring, by his influence and presents, to draw to his standard, as well the peaceable as the hostile Indians. If permission had been given to me to march against this place, (Pensacola.) twenty days ago, I would, ere this, have planted there the Amer- ican Eagle : now we must trust alone to our valour, and the justice of our cause. But my present re- sources are so limited— a sickly climate, as well as an enemy to contend with, and without the means ANDREW JACKSON. 167 of transportation, to change the position of my ar- myt that, resting; on the bravery of ray little pha- lanx, I can only hope for success." The Secretary at War, Mr. Monroe, incessantly exerted himself to second the measures of Gen. Jack- son. Having acquired Louisiana and the exclusive command of the Mississippi by negociation, he was novv called upon to defend it as the head of the War Department. As there was, within the Tth milita- ry district, but a very small amount of regular troops, the secretary made a requisition upon the executives of the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, to have their full quota of militia in readiness for immediate service, at the command of Gen. Jackson. Volunteers were again invited by Gen. Jackson to resort to his standard, under which they had always conquered. The whole civilized region of the Mississippi, was " wide awake." The unbounded popularity of Gen Jackson induced the militia not only with promptness, but with anima- tion, to repair to the rendezvous ; and the *' Tennes- see Volunteers," under their gallant, accomplished and beloved leader, Gen. Coflee, were again in mo- tion. They had almost invariably formed the van of Gen. Jackson's army ; and of their immediate commander, it may be said, '* he dared to lead where any dared to follow." Gen. Jackson, before the middle of September, had established his head quarters at Mobile^ wait- 168 MEfilOIRS OF iiig the arrival of the militia and volunteers, some of whom had to travel more than 450 miles. Upon the 14th he received a message from Maj. WUliam Lawrence^ commander of Fort Bowyer, at the mouth of Mobile bay, requesting immediate assist- ance in the defence of that important post, as the enemy had landed in the vicinity of that place, with a force probably ten times the amount of his own. Maj. Lawrence had but 158 men fit for duty. He took immediate measures to succour this ex- posed garrison ; but before reinforcements could reach that place, it was simultaneously attacked upon the 15tli, by the British and Indian forces, by- land, and by a large naval force in the bay. The defence of this place is described in the finished style of Gen. Jackson and Maj. I^awrence. GEN. JACKSON TO HON. JAMES MONROE. H. ^. 7th Military District y Mobile, Sept. nth, 1814. Sir — With lively emotions of satisfaction, I com- municate that success has crowned the gallant efforts of our brave soldiers, in resisting and repulsing a combined British naval and land force; which, on the 15th instant, attacked Fort Bowyer, on the Point of Mobile. I enclose a copy of the official report of Major William Lawrence, of the 2d infantry, who cora- maaded. In addition to the particulars communi- ANDKEW JACKSON. 1^9 cated in his letter, I have learned that the ship which was destroyed was the Hermes, of from 24 to 28 guns, captain, the Hon. Wni. H. Percy, senior officer in the Gulf of Mexico; and the brig so con- siderably damaged, is the Sophie, 18 guns, Captain William Lockyer ; the other ship was the Carron, of from 24 to 28 guns, Capt. Spencer, son of Earl Spencer; the other brig's name unknown. On board of the Carron, 85 men were killed and wounded ; among whom was Col. Nicholl, of the Royal Ma- rines, who lost an eye by a splinter. The land force consisted of 110 marines^ and 200 Creek Indians, under the command of Capt. Woodbine, of marines, and about 20 artillerists, with one four and an half inch howitzer, from which they discharged shells and nine pound shot. They re-embarked the piece, and retreated by land towards Pensacola, whence they came. By the morning report of the 16th, there were present in the fort, fit for duty, officers and men, 158. The result of this engagement has stamped a character on the war in this quarter, highly fa- vourable to the American arms: it is an event from which may be drawn the most favourable augury. An achievement so glorious in itself, and so im* portant in its consequences, should be appreciated by the government , and those concerned are enti- tled to, and will, doubtless, receive the most gratify- ing evidence of the approbation of their countrymen. 170 MEMOIRS Of In the words of Major Lawrence, '* where all be- haved well, it is unnecessary to discriminate." Bat all being meritorious, I beg leave to annex the names of the officers, who were engaged and present ; and hope they will, individually, be deemed worthy of distinction. Maj. Wm. Lawrence, 2d infantry, commanding; Capt. Walsh, of the artillery; Capts. Chamberlain, Brownlow, and Bradley, of the 2d infantry ; Capt. Sands, deputy commissary of ordnance ; Lieuts. Villard, Sturges, Conway, H. Sanders, T. R. San- ders, Brooks, Davis, and C. Sanders, all of the 2d infantry. I am confident that your own feelings will lead you to participate in my wishes on this subject. Permit me to suggest the propriety and justice of allowing to this gallant band, the value of the ves- sel destroyed by them. I remain, &c. ANDREW JACKSON, Brig. Gen, Com, l^ke Hon. Secretary of War, The following is " the official report of Maj. Wm. Lawrence," alluded to by Gen. Jackson, in his let- ter to the Secretary of War. MAJ. LAWRENCE TO GEN. JACKSON. Tort Bowi/er, Sept. 15th, 181 i— 12 0^ clock at night. Sir, — After writing the enclosed, I was prevented by the approach of the enemy, from sending it by ANDREW JACKSON. 171 an express. At meridian they were under full sail, with an easy and favourable breeze, standing di- rectly for the fort, and at 4 P. M. we opened our battery, which was returned from two ships, and two brigs, as they approached. The action became general at about 20 minutes past 4!, and was contin» ued, without intermission on either side, until f, when one ship and two brigs were compelled to re- tire. The leading ship, supposed to be the Com- modore, mounting 22 thirty-two pound carronades, having anchored nearest our battery, was so much disabled, her cable being cut by our shot, that she drifted on shore, within 600 yards of the battery, and the other vessels having got out of our reach, we kept such a tremendous fire upon her, that she was set on fire, and abandoned by the few of the crew who survived. At 10 P. M. we had the pleas- ure of witnessing the explosion of her magazine. The loss of lives on board must have been immense, as we are certain no boats left her except three, which had previously gone to her assistance, and one of these 1 believe was sunk: in fact one of her boats was burnt along side of her. The brig that followed her, 1 am certain was much damaged both in hull and rigging. The other two did not approach near enough to be much injured, but I am confident they did not escape, as a well directed fire was kept on them during the whole time. 172 MEMOIRS Or During the action, a battery of a twelve pounder and a howitzer, was opened on our rear, but without doing any execution, and was silenced by a few shot. Our loss is 4) privates killed, and 5 privates wounded. Towards the close of the action the'^flag-staif was shot away j but the flag was immediately hoisted on a sponge staiTover the parapet. While the flag was down, the eneray kept up their most incessant and tremendous fire : the men were withdrawn from the curtains and north-east bastion, as the enemy'a own shot completely protected our rear, except the position they had chosen for their battery. Where all behaved well, it is unnecessary to dis- criminate. Suffice it to say, every officer and man did his duti/^ the whole behaved with that cool». Dess and intrepidity which is characteristic of the true American, and which could scarcely have been expected from men, most of whom had never seen an enemy, and were now, for the first time, exposed for nearly three hours, to a force of nearly or quite four guns to one. We fired during the action between 4 and 500 guns, most of them double shotted, and after the first half hour but few missed eifect. September 16M, 1 1 o^clocky A. M. Upon an examination of our battery this morn- ing, we find upwards of 300 shot and shot holes, in the inside of (he north and east curtains, and north- east bastions, of all caiibresj from musket ball to 32: ANDREW JACKSON. ITS pound shot. In the north-east bastion there were three giuis dismounted ; one of which, a four pounds er, was broken off near the trunnions by a S2 pound shot, and another much battered. 1 regret to say that both the 24 pounders are cracked in such a manner as to render them unfit for service. 1 am informed by two deserters from the land force, who have just arrived here, and whom I send for your disposal, that a reinforcement is expected, when they will doubtless endeavour to wipe off the stain of yesterday. If you will send the Amelia down, we may pro- bably save most or all of the ship's guns, as her wreck is lying in six or seven feet water, and some ol them are just covered. They will not, however, an- swer for the fort, as they are too short. By the deserters, we learn that the ship we have destroyed, was the Hermes, but her commander's name they did not recollect. It was the Commo- dore, and he dou!)tless fell on his quarter deck, as we had a raking fire upon it, at about 200 yards distance, for some time. To Capt. Sands, who will have the honour of handing you this depatch, I refer you for a more particular account of the movements of the enemy than may be contained in my letters: his services, both before and during the action, were of great importance, and I consider fully justify me in hav- mQ detained him. Capt. Walsh and several xmm V 2 174 MEMems op were much burned in the accidental explosion of two or three cartridges. They are not included in the list of the wounded heretofore given. The enemy's fleet this morning, at day break, were at anchor in the channel, about four miles from the fort: shortly after, it got under weigh and stood to sea: after passing the bar, they hove to, and boats have been constantly passing between the disabled brig and the others. I presume the for- mer is so much injured as to render it necessary to lighten her. Fifteen minutes after 1, P, M. The whole fleet have this moment made sail, and are standing to sea. I have the honour to be, &c. WILLIAM LAWRENCE, Maj. Gen, Andtew Jackson^ See. When it is considered that this fort was in a very incomplete state, having been almost totally aban- doned, until Gen. Jackson had recently discovered its importance to the surrounding country in time of war — that it was only in a progressive state of improvement— that it was garrisoned by only 150 3aew recruits^^who had never before faced a veteran enemy— and that it was assailed on every side by land and navaJ forces, probably amounting to 1500 snen^ and 100 pieces of cannon, its defence may be ranked among the most gallant achievements in the lastj or any previous war m America. When the ANDREW JACKSON. 175; defences of Stonington, Fort M^ Henry ^ Fort Bowyer, and Fort St, Phillips, are remembered, the " naval demonstrations'* of the haughty mistress of the ocean, lose the terror which our countrymen for- merly attached to them; and shews that independ- ent and valiant freemen, defending their homes against modern hired Vandals, sent to destroy them,, ?vill be victoriouSa ITS MEMOIRS OF CHAPTER XII. Gen. Jackson is appointed Maj. Geo. iu U. S. army— Fori Bowyer — its importance, and its danger — Gen. Jackson determines to re- duce Pensacola — Arrival of Gen. Coffee with Tennessee Volunteers and Mississippi Dragoons— Capture of Pensacola — Gen. Jackson's account of it — Destruction of the Barancas — He returns to Mo- bile — Col. Nicoll's proclamation — Remark. Previous to this period, (Oct. 1814,) General Jackson had been appointed a Major General in the army of the United States, an that our country is filled with spies and traitors, I have written pressingly on the subject, to the city au- thorities and parish judges — I hope some efficient regulations will speedily be adopted by the first,, and more vigilance exerted for the future, by the latter." In a third letter, the governor observes — " The only difficulty I have hitherto experienced, in meet- ing the requisition, has been in this city, and e-xciu- sively from some European Frenchmen, who, after givina: their adhesion to Louis XVIII. have?, through the medium o»' the French consul, claimed exemption from the drafts, as French subjects. The question of exemption, however, is now under dis- cussion, before a special court of inquiry, and lam- not without hopes, that these ungrateful men^ may yet be brought to a discharge of their duties. You have been informed of the contents of an; intercepted letter, written by Col. Coliel, a Spanish officer, to Capt. Morales^ of Pensacola. This letter was submitted for the opinion of the attorney gene- lal of the statCj as to the measures to be pursued' 200 MEMOIRS or against the writer. The attorney general was of opinion, that the courts could take no coii;nizance of the same; but that the governor might order the writer to leave the state, and in case of refusal, to send him off by force. I accordingly, sir, ordered Col Coliel to take his departure, in forty-eight hours, for Pensacola, and gave him the necessary passports. I hope, this measure may meet your ap- probation. It is a just retaliation for the conduct lately observed by the governor of Pensacola, and may induce the Spaniards residing among us, to be less communicative upon those subjects wliich relate to our military movements." In another letter, this patriotic chief-magistrate' says to Gen. Jackson, "If Louisiana is invaded, I shall put myseif at the head of such of my militia as will follow me to the fie^d, and on receiving, shall obey your orders." It will be remembered that the venerable Gov. S!)elby, of Kentucky, served under Maj, Gen. Harrison, when he obtained his signal victory over Gen. Proctor. In addition to this ex- plicit evidence, furnished by Gov. Claiborne, Charles K. Blanchard, Esq. writes to Gen. Jackson thus — *' Quarter-Master Peddie, of the British army, ob- served [to me,] that the commanding officers of the British forces, were daily in the rect ipt of every in- formation from the city of New- Orleans, which they nnigiit require in aid of their operations, for the completion of the objects of the expedition i — that ANDREW JACKSON. 201 they were perfectly acquainted with the situation of every part of our forces, the manner in which the same was situated, the number of our fortifications, their strength, position, vScc. He furthermore sta- ted, that the above information was received from persons in the city of iNew-OrJeans, from whom he could at any hour^ procure every information neces- sary to promote his majesty's interest ! 1" I have been thus particular in describing the situ- ation in which Gen. Jackson found the citizens of Louisiana, its legislature, and its capital, upon his arrival there, early in December, 1814, because it induced, and indeed, compelled him to resort to a measure which had never before been resorted to in the Republic, since the adoption of the Constitution^ THE DECLARATION OF MARTIAL LAW. ThiS tOOk place on the iGihof the month, twenty-three days before the splendid victory, which secured the city of Ncw-Orleaus and the states bordering upon the Mis- sissippi, from the rapacity of an enemy, whose prin- ciples of warfare, hid been demonstrated, upon the western frontier, at Havre de Grace, at Hampton,, and at Washington! The proceedings of the fegislatuTe were suspend- ed. But let the majority of the members, who then constituted it, rememher, that the suspensiom of their civil power, was occasioned by their resist- ance of di. legal miiitary power. Gen, Jackson had been too long in the discharge of the highest civil 202 MEMOIRS OF functions, not to acknowledge the superiority of the civily over the military power. He had been too long in military life, to be ignorant of the duties of an American General, to whom was committed the defence of a district, the safety of which was para- mount to every other consideration. The citizens of New-Orleans, and its environs, were, for a few days deprived of their accustomed privileges. But the patriotic part of them, endured the deprivation with pleasure, since it prohibited the perfidious and traitorous part of them, from holding an intercourse with the enemy, calculated to aid them in the subjugation of it. Gen. Jackson had been incessantly engaged, since his arrival, in selecting the most commanding scites for fortifications, near the mouth of the Mississippi. Fort St. Philips, was selected as the most eligible one, and Maj. W. H. Overton, was appointed to the command of it. His gallant defence of it, will constitute a subsequenr article in these memoirs. The naval force near New. Orleans, consisted of small gun-vessels, under the command of Capt. Pat- terson. The gallantry> not to say desperation, with which they were defended, more properly belongs to the naval chronicle than to this work. From the 16th to the 22(1 December, the gene- ral, by his animation, vigilance, and exertions, seemed to magnify his little phalanx into a host, and to dissipate the despondency that pervaded the citi- ANDRE<^ JACKS0J7. 20S zens, by the confidence his presence excited. Upon the last mentioned day, the reinforcements from Tennessee, under Generals Carroll and Coffee, had arrived. Those under Gtn. Coffee, were, the most of them, the same men who had encamped at Fort St. Stephens, two months previous, and who were present at the capture of Pensacola, upon the Tth November. From the time they left Tennessee, to the time they encamped at iNeu -Orleans, they had marched over 800 miles ! The troops under the comaiand of Gen. Carroll, were those recently raised hy order of Gov. Blount, and but few of them had seen any service. They had suddenly repaired to their rend* zvous at home ; immediately entered the water craft in tlie Alississippi, and had no opportunity to study even the first principles of military tactics, before they were called to face a veteran foe, whose prowess was acknowledged through the world. The Mississippi dragoons had also arrived, under the command of their accom- plished leader, Vlaj. Hinds; and this heterogenous mass of ritizrn- soldiers^ was converted, as by magic, into an army, whose achievetients under their great leader, Gen Jaikson, will now be detailed. At this period, the Kentucky troops, raised by order of Gov. Shelby, and commanded by Maj. Gen. Thom- as, had not arrived at New-Orleans. Previous to the 23d, the gun-vessels had been captured by the enemy, with an overwhelming 20i MEMOIRS OF force, after a defence by Lieut. Thos. Ap. Catesby Jones, uhicii '* reflects additional splendour on our naval ulory, and diminishes tlie regret felt by their loss."* Upon the 23d, Maj. Gen. Keene landed nine miles below New-Orleans, with 3000 men, inured to arms, and Gen. Jackson, with less than half that number of men, mostly militia, immediately march- ed to give him battle. His account of the contest folio us. MAJ. GEN, JACKSON TO HON. JAWES MONROE. Camp, below Nen -Orleans, Dec. 27, 1814. Sir— -The loss of our giin-boats near the pass of the Riiiohls, having given the enemy commanrl of lake Borgne, he was enabled to choose his point of attack. If btcame therefore an object of import- ance, to obstruct the numerous bayous and canals, leading from that lake to the hiohlands on the Mis- sissippi. This important service was committed, in the first instance, to a detachment of the 7th regi- ment, afterwards to Col. D^ Laronde, of the Lou- isiana militia, and lastly, to njake all sure, to JVlaj. Gen. Villere, commanding the district between the river and the lakes, and who being a native of the country, was presumed to be best acquainted with all those passes. Unfortunately, however, a picquet whicl) the general had established at the mouth of * Vide Capt. Patterson's and Lieut. Joneses official reports. ANDREW JACKSON. 205 the bayou Bienvenu, and which, notwithstanding my orders, had been left unobstructed, was com- pletely surprised, and the enemy penetrated through a canal leading to his farm, about two leagues below the city, and succeeded in cuttinj^ off a company of militia stationed there. This intelli- gence was communicated to me about 12 o'clock of the 23d. My force at this time, consisted of parts of the rth and 44th regiments, not exceeding six hundred together, the city militia, a part of Gen. Coiiee's brigade of mounted gunmen, and the de- tached militia from the western division of Ten- nessee, under the command of iVIaj. Gen. Carroll. These two last corps were stationed 4 miles above the city. Apprehending a double attack by the way of Chief-Mtnteur, I left Gen. Carroll's force and the militia of the city, posted on the Gentilly road ; and at five o'clock P. M. marched to meet the ene- my, whom I was resolved to attack in his first posi- tion, with Maj. Hinds' dragoons, Gen. Coilee's bri- gade, parts of the 7th and 44th regiments, the uni- formed companies of militia, under the command of Maj. Planche, 200 men of colour, chiefly from St. Domingo, raised by Col. Savary, and acting under the command of Maj. Dagwin, and a de- tachment of artillery under the direction of Col. M'Rhea, with two 6 pounders, under the com- mand of Lieut. Spotts; not exceeding in all, 1500* I arrived near the enemy's encampment about sev*- S ^6 MEMOIRS OP en, and immediately made my dispositions for the attack. His forces amounting at that time on land, to about 3000, extended half a mile on that river, and in the rear nearly to the wood. Gen. Coffee was ordered to turn their right, while with the residue of the force, I attacked his strongest po- sition on the left, near the river. Com. Patterson, having dropped down the river in the schooner Caroline, was directed to open a fire upon their camp, which he executed at about half past seven. This being a signal of attack. Gen. Coifee*s men, with their usual impetuosity, rushed on the ene- my's right, and entered their camp, while our right advanced with equal ardour. There can be but lit- tle doubt, that w^e should have succeeded on that occasion, with our inferior force, in destroying or capturing the enemy, had not a thick fog which arose about 8 o'clock, occasioned some confusion among the different corps. Fearing the conse- quence, under this circumstance, of the further prosecution of a night attack, Avith troops then act- ing together for the first time, I contented myself with lying on the field that ni^ ht ; and at four in the morning assumed a stronger position, about two miles nearer the city. At this position I re- mained encamped, waiting the arrival of the Ken- tucky militia and other reinforcements. As the safety of the city will depend on the fate of this ar- ray, it must not be incautiously exposed. ANDREW JACKSON. 207 In this affair the whole corps under my com- mand, deserve the greatest credit. The best com- pliiDcnt I can pay to Gen. Coffee and his brigade, is to say, they have behaved as they have always done, while under my command. The 7th led by Maj. Pierre, and 44th, commanded by Col. Ross, distinguished themselves. The battalion of city militia commanded by Maj, Planche, realized my anticipations, and behaved like veterans. Savary's volunteers manifested great bravery ; and the com- pany of city riflemen, having penetrated into the midst of the enemy's camp, were surrounded, and fought their way out with the greatest heroism, bringing with them a number of prisoners. The two field pieces were well served by the officers commanding them. All my officers in the line did their duty, and I have every reason to be satisfied with the whole of my field and staff. Cols. Butler and Piatt, and Mixj. Chotard, by their intrepidity, saved the artil- lery. Col. Haynes was every where that duty or danger called. I was deprived of the services of one of my aids, Capt. Butler, whom I was obliged to station, to his great regret, in toun. Capt. Reid, my other aid, and Messrs. Livingston, Duplissis, and Davizac, who had volunteered their services, faced danger wherever it w is to be met, and carri- ed my orders with the utmost promptitude. We made one Major, two subalterns, and sixty^ i208 MEMOIRS OP three privates prisoners; and the enemy's loss in Itillcd and wounded must have been at least . My own loss I have not as yet been able to ascer- tain with exactness, but suppose it to amount to 100 in killed, wounded and missing. Among the former, I have to lament the loss of Col. Lauder- dale, of Gen. Coffee's brigade, who fell while bravely fighting. Cols. Dyer and Gibson, of the same corps, were wounded, and Maj. Kavenaugh taken prisoner. Col. De I.aronde, Maj. Villere, of the Louisiana militia, Maj. Latour, of engineers, having no com- mand, volunteered their services, as did Drs. Kerr and Hood, and were of great assistance to me. I have the honour to be, &.c. ANDREW JACKSON. Hon* James Monroe^ Secretary of War, Since the civilized world have made the trade of war a science, perhaps no two armies ever met and separated, with opinions so different of each, as those of Gen. Jackson and Gen. Keene, on the 23d. The first, consisting of a small number of regular troops, and the rest of gentlemen and yeomen, who had spent their days amidst the scenes of peace, ^hc whole amounting only to 1500, must have met a veteran army of 3000, in field fight, with forebo- dings bordering upon despair. The second, con- scious of great superiority in numbers, in disci- i^NDREW JACKSON. 209 pline, and in experience, marclied to the contest with contempt for their enemy, and a certainty of making them their prey. The battle gave to the first, conjidence-^io the second, it taught caution. As the general, in his official report, does not mention the number the enemy lost, I extract from Insp. Gen. Haynes* report, " KillediAeit on the field of battle, 100-- Woundedy left on the field of battle, 2S0'^Prisoners, TO. Total, 400." The loss in the American forces, were — Killed, 24— Wounded^ 115— Missing, 74. Total, 213. s-^- 210 JilEMOIRS Of CHAPTER XIV. Benevolent exertions of the Ladies of New-Orleans— Gen. Jacksoiv selects the final position of bis army — Lobs of the naval force — Capt. Patterson — Lieut. Jones — Harmony between land and naval forces— Defence at the mouth of the Missisaippi— American lines on the east and west side of the river described — Battle of the 28tli December— of the 1st January— Attempt upon the left wing of the American army. The battle of the 23d l>ecember, although by no means a decisive one, produced those effects which led to ultimate victory. The despondency of the citizens was converted into hope, and the undisciplined troops of the Republic, presented " a rampart of high minded and brave 7?ien.^^ From the romantic age of chivalry to this period of the worl«l, the defence of the fair sex has been the pride of the warrior, and their approving sen- tence one of his highest rewards. The ladies of New-Orleans, not content merely to bestow their applause and their smiles upon their defenders, ex- erted all their faculties t© ameliorate the hardships they endured, and to relieve them from the priva- tions they suffered. Clothing of a necessary kind, was furnished to a large amount for the troops, who, from long service and absence from home, found it a most seasonable supply. Almost eon ANDREW JACKSON. 2tt slant exposure to the inclemency of the season, ren- dered an additional supply of clothing a comfort to the war-worn veteran, which he knows well how to appreciate. Imitating the exalted benevolence of the American matrons and daughters, in the gloomy period of the revolution, the females of the city be- came ministering angels to the wants of their heroic protectors. The historian will immediately recol- lect, that the women of ancient Carthage, in a time of danger, divested themselves of their flowing locks, and converted them into cordage, to aid the com- mon defence. While the achievements of female Amazons, rather excite disgust than applause, the refined benevolence of the tender sex, commands the admiration of men ; and even angels must witness it with a smile of complacency. Notwithstanding the rigorous execution of mar- tial Jaw, over citizens as well as soldiers, the sullen murmurs of the disalTected were drowned by the applause of the patriotic. All was animation in the camp — all was confidence in the city. General Jackson was in daily, indeed in hourly expectation of a renewed attack from the enemy. Although the American troops remained upon the field of bat* tie until the 24th, yet the disadvantages of the situa- tion, and the continuance of the enemy in their first position where they landed, with nearly treble his force, induced him to fall back nearer to the city* Offeubive operations, ynder these circurastancesj, :|12 MEMOIRS OP would have been rashness bordering upon despera- tion. Although from the gallant achievements of his troops upon the 23d, Gen. Jackson had every thing to hope from them> yet he did not, as has often been the case in modern warfare, consider irien as ammunition^ to be expended at pleasure, to grace the commander with laurels. His language to Mr. Monroe was — *' ^v thf safety of this city will depend on the fate of this army^ it must not be incautiously exposed.** He selected the most advantageous po- sition, upon the east bank of the Mississippi, and commenced a system of defence, which will for ever give him an exalted rank among the great corn- manders of the nineteenth century. Although, to use his own ex[)ressions, for which our copious lan>- guai;e can with difficulty furnish a substitute — " The surest defence, that seldom fails of success, is^ a rampant of high-minded and brave men** — he acted, in every situation, as if he was accountable to his country and his God, for the life of every man that was lost, who fought under his standard. Alter the loss of the small flotilla under Lieut. Jones, there was no naval defence but the schooner Caroline, and she was placed in a situation, which,, owing to the current of the Mississippi, and the course of the winds, rendered her an easy prey to the enemy. Her gallant crew, however,^ defended her until the red hot balls thrown from the enem j's> ANDREW JACKSON. 213 battery, set her on fire and blew her up, upon the 27th. Capt. Patterson, and all his officers and men, immediately placed themselves under the command of Gen. Jackson, and by their consummate skill in gunnery, rendered most essential service in the land batteries. I cannot omit a brief extract from Capt. Patterson's letter to the Navy Department, dated S7th January, 1815. — * I have received from all the officers whom I have the honour to command, every aid and support which could possibly be ren- dered. They have been exposed to extraordinary hardships, both by day and night, to all the chan- ges of this unstable clime, in this inclement season of the year ; performing the most arduous duties on shore, out of the line of their profession, inde- pendent of their ordinary duties; and all has been done and executed, with a cheerfulness and alacrity that reflects upon them the highest credit ; and that the unwearied exertions of the small naval force on this station, from the first appearance of the enemy, has contributed, in a great degree, to his expulsion, is freely acknowledged by the gallant general, com- manding the land forces." The officers mentioned in this letter, are Captain Henley; Lieuts. Alexis, Thompson, Norris, and Cunningham ; Mr. Purser Shields, Dr. Morrell, sailing-master Dealy, surgeon Heerman, navy agent Smith ; Maj. Cormick, com- manding the marine corps; Mr. Shephard, aid-de- camp; Lieut. Nevitt, volunteer; acting Lieuts, 214 MEMOIRS OF Speddin and M'Keever. He further says, — ''My petty officers, seamen, and marines, performed their duties to my entire satisfaction." It has already been mentioned that the gun boats, commanded by Lieut. Jones, were captured upon the 14!th, and the commander severely wounded. His force was gun-boats Nos. 5, 23, 156, 162, and 163 — the whole mounting 23 guns, and having 183 men on board. The British force that attacked this little gallant flotilla, consisted of 45 boats, 42 guns, and 1200 men, commanded by Capt. Lockyer, whose loss in killed and wounded exceeded 300 men ; and he received three severe wounds himself. Upon Lieut. Jones Capt. Patterson bestows the highest applause, and most deservedly too ; for, consider- ing the species of force he had under his command, and the immense superiority of the enemy, his gal- lantry is scarcely exceeded by any officer in our navy. It ought to be mentioned, whenever an opportu- nity occurs, as a fact which entitles the command- ers of the land and naval forces of the Republic to infinite credit, that in every instance, excepting one, where they could act in conjunction in conquering the enemy, the utmost harmony prevailed. Gen. Harrison and Captain Perry — Gen. Macomb and Capt. Macdonough — Gen. Jackson and Capt. Pat- terson, went hand in hand to victory. Although in the last instance, the captain was conipclled to ANDREW JACKSON. ^IS leave his chosen element, with his gallant crews, he joined the army, and aided in the final victory. The various passes at the mouth of the Missis- sippi were guarded in the hest possible manner, by different forts; and considering the short time al- lowed to construct them, and the few men only who could be spared to garrison them, tlieir defences en- title the garrisons to the highest applause. Major Overton, at Fort St. Philips, determining never to surrender, actually nailed the American flag to his standard, and resolved that it should triumphantly wave over that of Britain, as long as a living man remained in the fort to defend it. The troops at the moulhs of the river, were as much inspired with fortitude by the addresses and examples of General Jackson, as those under his immediate command. Having these forts, as well as the current of the Mis- sissippi to oppose, the British admiral was prevented from bringing any of his larger vessels to co-operate with the land forces, in their various attacks upon the American lines. Had he been enabled to effect this, it is difficult to conceive how the city could have been saved. Upon the 241 h. Gen. Jackson took his final posi- tion. It extended in a direct line from the east bank of the Mississippi, into the edge of the Cuprus Sivamps a distance exceeding a mile. For the whole distance, the troops almost incessantly laboured, and with a vigour worthy of the cause that called ^16 MEMOIRS OF forth their laborious exertions, in throwing up a strong breast-work, under the protection of which they were to be intrenched. From the hunk of the river to the edge of the Cypress Swamp, a distance of very near a mile, the country was a perfect plain. The small force under Gen. Jackson, were in full view of the vastly superior force in the British camp. Although they had received a check in the brilliant aifair of the 23d, it would seem to be the result of infatuation itself, that they remained un- moved spectators of the measures of defence, the American commander was taking, which, if prose- cuted to completion, would render them hopeless of success. It is hazardous judging from appearance, without a knowledge of motives ; but the conduct of the British army, at this time, would seem to justify the application to them, of a position maintained for ages — " ^uem Deus perdere vultj prius dement tat^'' — (whom God wills to destroy, he first makes mad.) Adjoining the river, and in advance of the main work, a redoubt was formed to protect the right wing of the army, upon which were mounted a number of pieces of heavy artilh ry. Through the whole line were mounted, at proper distances, can- non from six to thirty-two pounders. The breast- work was extended from 450 to 500 yards into the swamp, to prevent the enemy from turning the left wing of the army. This part of the intrenchment, ANDREW JACKSON. 2iT was constructed with extreme difficulty, and with excessive taligue ; being erected in a morass, almost impassable from the depth of the mud and water. It was wisely supposed that the British commander would conclude that the American intreochment, reached only to the edge of the swamp; and that he would endeavour to force a passage through it, and gain the rear of the American army. At the immediate edge of the swamp, an angular indent was made in the intrenchment, upon which heavy pieces of artillery were placed so as to rake the ene- my in the swamp, from one side of it, and in the open field, from the other. Every hour's labour increased the strength of the intrenchment, and every event that transpired, augmented the confi- dence of the troops. Notwithstanding the rapidly increasing security of his small, and to a very con- siderable amount unarmed troo})s, Gen. Jackson en- deavoured to provide against every event, that could endanger their safety, or that of the city. Admitting the possibility that the British army, from their great superiority in numbers, and from the numerous pieces of heavy orrds can exr press the mortification I felt, at witnessing the scene exhibited on the opposite bank. I will spare your feelings and my own, nor enter into a detail on the subject. To all who reflect, it must be a source of eternal regret, that a few moments' exertion of that- courage you certainly possess, was alone wanting to have rendered your success more complete, than- tUhat of your fellow ciiizens in this camp. To what cause was the abandonment of your lines owing? T-o . fear. ? No ! You, aicp the, countrymen^ the. ANDREW JACKSON. 23S friends, the brothers of those who have secured to themselves, by their courage^ the gratitude of their country ; who have been prodigal of blood in its defence, and who are strangers to any other fear than disgrace — To disaffection to our glorious cause ? No, my countrymen, your general does justice to the pure sentiments by wiiich you are inspired. How then could brave men, firm in the cause in which they were enroiled, neglect their first duty, and abandon the post committed to their care ? Tiie want of discipline, the want of order, the total disregard to obedience, and a spirit of insubordination, not less destructive than cowardice itself, are the causes which led to this disaster, and they must be eradicated, or I must cease to com- mand. I desire to be distinctly understood, that every breach of orders, all want of discipline, every inattention of duty, will be seriously and promptly punished ; tiiat the attentive officers, and good sol- diers, may not be mentioned in the disgrace and danger, which the negligence of a few may pro- duce. Soldiers! you want only the will, in order io emulate the glory of your fellow citizens on this bank of the river — You have the same motives for action— the same interest — the same country to pro- tect ; and you have an additional interest, from past events, to wipe off reproach, and show that you will not be inftrior, in the day of trial, to any -^f your countrymen. U2 ^34 MEMOmS OF. But remember, witliout obedience, without or^ cler, without disciplint', all your eiforts are vain, T^ie brave man^ inattentive to his duty, is w orth lit- tle more to hiq. country, than the coward, who de- serts lier in the hour of danger. Private opinions, as to tlie competerici/ of ofFicerSy ipusl not be indiilged, and still less expressed. It is impossibi^ tha.t the measures of those who com- mand, should satisfy all who are bound to obey j and one of the most dangerous faults in a soldier, is a disposition to criticise and blame the orders, and characters of his superiors. Soldiers! I know that many of yoif have done your duty ; and I trust in future, that; I shall have no reason to make any ex- ception. Officers'! I have the fullest confidence that you will enforce obedience to your commands: but above all, that by subordination in your difi'er- ent grades, you will set an example to your men* and that hereafter th? army of the right will yield \q none, in the essential qualities which characterize good soldiers— that they will earn their share of those honours and rewards, ivhich their countr^^ will prepare fgr its deliver ers^^^ Gen. Jackson took immediate measures to regain by forccy the important post on the right bank of the Mississippi ; but, ever anxious to spare the elfu- sion of human blood, he obtained it by negocialion^ as mentioned in his letter to the Secretary of War. The relinquishment ©f this post, seems to be thp ANDREW JACKSON. 2SB msuli of that infatuation which evinced itself in every measure of the British commanders, after they landed in Louisiana. Had they abandoned the east side of the river, and concentrated their forces upon tlie west, with the immense quantity of. heavy artillery in their possession, they would have had the exclusive command of the country to New- Orleans; and what couM then have saved the city, must he left to conjecture. Hence the solicitude of Gen. Jackson to regain it : hence too, his exces- sive mortification at its temporary loss, Notwith.^ standing the unparalleled victory obtained, it ap=.. pears fronj the following letter, that the general act- ed as if the enemy were preparing **^o make a still mightier effort to attain his first object J^ GEN. JACKSON TO HON. JAMES MONROE. Head Quarters, Camp, 4 miles below New-Orleans^ Jan» 13M, 1815. Sir, — At such a crisis, I conceive it my duty to keep you constantly advised of my situation. On the IQth instant, I fo warded you an account. of the bold attempt made by; the enemy, on the morning of the 8th, to take possession of my work^ by storm, and of the severe repulse which he met with. That report having been sent by the maii which crosses the lake, may possibly have miscarri: ed ; for which reason, I think it the more necessary !3riefiy to repeat the substance of it. ^3(> MEMOmS OF Early on the morning of the 8th, the enemy hav- ing been actively employed the two preceding days, in making preparations for a storm, advanced in two strong columns on my right and left. They were received, however, with a firmness which it seems they little expected, and which defeated all their hopes. My men, undisturbed by their ap- proach, which indeed they long anxiously wished for, opened upon them a fire, so deliberate and cer- tain, as rendered their scaling ladders and fascines, as well as their more direct implements of warfare, perfectly useless. For upwards of an hour it \v^s continued with a briskness of which there have been but few instances, perhaps, in any country. In jus- tice to the enemy, it must be said, they withstood it as long as could be expected from the most de- termined bravery. At length, however, when all prospect of success became hopeless, they fled in confusion from the field, leaving it covtred with their dead and wounded. Their loss was immense. I had at first computed it at 1500; but it is since ascertained to have been much greater. Upon in» formation, which is believed to be correct. Colonel Haynes, the inspector-general, reports it to be in total 2600. His report I enclose you. My los& was inconsiderable, being only t^ killed, and 6 wounded. Such a disproportion in loss, when we * This was in the action on the line : afterwards a skirmishing was Jtept up, in which a few more of our men were lost. ANDREW JACKSON. 2St jjoDsider the number and the kind of troops enga- ged, must, I know, excite astonishment, and may not every where be fully credited ; yet I am per- fectly satisfied that the account is not exaggerated, on the one part, nor underrated on the other. The enemy having hastily quitted a post, which they had gained possession of, on the other side of the river, and we, having immediately returned to it, both armies, at present, occupy their former positions. Whether, after the severe losses he has sustained, he is preparing to return to hi&shippingj or to make still mightier efforts to attain his first object, 1 do not pretend to determine. It becomes me to act as though the latter were his intention. One thing, however, seems certain, that if he stilt calculates on effecting vvhat he has hitherto been unable to accomplish, he must expect considerable reinforcements ; as the force with which he landed- must be undoubtedly diminished, by at least 3000. Besides the loss which he sustained on the night of the 23(1 ult. which ia estimated at 400, he cannot have suffered less between that period and the morn- ing of the 8th inst. than 3000— having, within that time, been repulsed in two general attempts-todrive> us from our position, and there having been contin- ual cannonading and skirmishing during the whole of it. Yet he is still able to shew a very formidable Iprce. There is no doubt that the commanding generalj ^38 MEMOIRS OP Sir Edward Pakenham, was killed, in the action oF the 8th, and that Major- Generals Keane and Gibbs were baflly wounded. Whenever a more leisure moment shall occur, I will take the liberty to make and forward you a more circumstantial account of the several actions, and particularly that of the 8th; in doing which, my chief motive will be, to render justice to those brave men I have the honour to command, and who have so remarkably distinguished themselves, I have the honour, &c. ANDREW JACKSON. The rival armies upon the 9th, were restored to their former positions; and both were ignorant of the intentions of each other. Sir Edvvard Paken- ham being slain, and Generals Keane and Gibbs be- ing, the one mortally, and the other severely wound- ed, were compelled, the one to languish and die, the other to languish and barely survive. The command devolved upon Myj. Gen. I^ambert. The deep penetration of Gen. Jackson might well lead him to suppose, that Gen. Lambert, and Col. Thorn- ton, (who had once conquered on the right bank of the river,) would unite their " mightier eiibrts" to conquer on the east. Ever vigilant, and never re- miss, he relaxed not in the least from his former en- ergy. The plains of Capua^ alter a victory, and the luxurious indulgence of the fruits of conquest upon ANDREW JACKSON. 339 them, proved to be the destruction of Hannibal and his army. Gen. Jackson was resolved, that the banks of the Mississippi should not prove so to him and his patriotic companions. While every exertion was made to prepare for another attack, the distant thunder of cannon, an- nounced to the armies, the operations of the power- ful British naval force at the month of the Missis- sippi. From the official report of Maj. Overton to Gen. Jackson, it may he conchided, that Admiral Cochrane, and Sir Edward Pakenham, had agreed to commence final operations at the same time — the one to capture New Orlean?, the other to destroy the American forts at the mouth of the river. Upon the memorable 8th January, a squadron of the Brit- ish naval force appeared before Fort St. Philips. Gen. Jackson thus writes to the Secretary at War; " I have the honour to enclose you Maj. Overton's report of the attack of Fort St. Philips, and of the manner in which it was defended. The conduct of that officer, and of those who acted under him, merits, I think, great praise. They nailed their own colours to the standard, and placed those of the enemy underneath them, determined never to surrender the fort." The following is the report alluded to by the general. fid MEMOIRS OF MA J. W. H. OVERTON TO GEN. jACKSOMc Fort St, Philips, Jan. 19, 1813. Sir,— On the 1st of the present month, I received the information, that the enemy intended passing this fort, to CO operate with their land forces, in the subjugation of Louisiana, and the destruction of New-Orleans. To eiXtc\ this with more facilityj they were first, with their heavy homb vessels, to bombard this place into compliance. On the groHtids of this information, I turned my attention to the security of my command. I erected small magazines in different parts of the garrison, that if one blew up, I could resort to another* built covers for my men, to secure them from the explosion of the shells, and removed the combustible matter without the work. Early in the day of the 8th inst. I was advised of their approach, and on the 9th, at a quarter past 10, A. M. hove in sight, twC bomb vessels, one sloop, one brig, and one schooner : they anchored tv^o and one quarter miles below. At half past 11, and at half past 12, they advanced two barges, apparently for the purpose of sounding within one and a half miles of the fort. At this moment, I ordered my water battery, under the command of Lieut. Cunningham, of the navy, to open upon them : its well directed shot caused a precipitate retreat. At half past 3 o'clock, P. M. Ihe enemy's bomb vessels opened their fire, from four sea-mortars, two of thirteen inches, two of XtW'^ and, ANDREW JACKSON. 241 to my great mortification, I found they were with- out the eiiective ran^e of my shot, as many subse- quent expt^riments proved. They continued theii? fire, with little intermission, during the 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, and ITth. I ccca- sionaily opened my batteries on them with great vivacity, particularly when they showed a dispo- sition to change their position. On the irth, in the evening, our heavy mortar was said to be in readiness. I ordered that excel- lent officer, Capt. Wolstoncroft, of the artillerists, who previously had charge of it, to open a fire, which was done with great eHect, as the enemy from that moment became disordered, and at day- light on the 18th, commenced their retreat, after having thrown upwards of a thousand heavy shells, besides shells from howitzers, round shot and grape, which he discharged from boats, under cover of the night. Our loss in this afTair has been uncommonly small, owing entirely to the great pains that were taken by the diiierent officers to keep their men undercover; as the enemy left scarcely ten feet of this garrison untouched. The officers and soldiers, through this whole af- fair, althou-h nine days and nights under arms, in the dilferent batteries, with the consequent fatigue and loss of sleep, have manifested the greatest firm- ness and the most zealous warmth to beat the ene- W 24i^ MEMOIRS O? my. To distinguish individuals, would be a deli- cate task, as merit was conspicuous every where. Lieut. Cunningham, of the navy, who commanded my water battery, with his brave crew, evinced the most determined bravery and uncommon activity throughout: in fact, Sir, the only thing to be re- gretted, is, that the enemy was too timid to give us an opportunity of destroying him. I herewith enclose you a list of the killed and wounded. I am, Sir, very respectfully, W. H. OVERTON. The loss of the Americans, from the official re- port, was, killed, 2 — wounded, 7 — total, 9. No- thing but the immense importance of the post he commanded, can justify Maj. Overton in nailing his colours to his standard. Even the praise of Gen. Jackson, cannot wholly exculpate a commander for an act, which might have led to the sacrifice of his 7vhole garrison, by a force, to contend with which, would have been desperation. ANDREW JACKSON. 24;3 CHAPTER XVI. Situation of the armies after tiie battle of the 8th January — Melaa- choly and distressing scene — Operations at the mouth of the Mis- sissippi — Departure of the enemy — Gen. Jackson's address to the American troops — Disparity in the loss of the two armies. Although the American army under Gen. Jack- son, and the British army under Gen. Lambert, remained in full view of each other, from the 9th to the 18th, no hostile military operations took place between them, during that time. The first were preparing for a renewed attack, enjoying the repose their valour had rendered secure, and which many days of excessively hard labour, and a number of severe fighting, rendered peculiarly necessary. The last were employed in discharging the most melan- choly duties of the camp. The soldiers were en- gaged in depositing in the bosom of the earth, their slain comrades, who had for many days previous, fought by their sides upon its surface, and assuaging the distresses of the wounded who yet survived. Humanity must weep over such a scene ; and in the death and anguish of the gallant, and comparative- ly innocent soldiers of England, for a season forget the wicked cause in which they fell — the cause of tyranny against freedom. Even the patriotic sol- 244 MEMOIRS OP diers of our beloved Republic, in beholding the banks of the majestic Mississippi, converted into an outspread sepulchre for veteran foemen, who had one common origin with themselves, must have dropped a manly tear. But how soon will reflec- tion compel them to pour forth the most indignant imprecations against the British government, whose systematic injustice first occasioned the war, and against the British officers, whose Vandalism and barbarity, even charity itself can never forgive. It must crimson with a blush every Englishman, who reads the history of the nineteenth century, when he finds it recorded, that an officer, the pride of England, confident of capturing one of the finest cities in America, gave as a countersign, upon the day his army was to enter it — *' Booty and Beau- ty)** The hard earnings of patient industry, were to be ravished from the defenceless citizens, and their wives and daughters to be subjected to the diabolical lust of a full-gorged soldiery. The in- nocent and accomplished females of New-Orleans, who had spent days of labour, and nights of watch- fulness, in alleviating the toils of their valiant coun- trymen, while stationed under the banners of the Kepublic, were to suffer more than ten thousand deaths could inflict, before the very eyes of those who had blessed them for their bounty, but who could no longer extend to them protection. Well may the English reader exclaim with an ancient ANDREW JACKSON'. 24ih poet — " ^uis temprret a lachn/wis, talia fandoy'* (who can refrain from tears in rektine:siich deeds;) and well may the patriotic sons of Columl^ia, when thinking of their impl-tcable enemy, resolve to be, *' Fire to fire, flint to flint, and to outface " The brow of bragging horror." It would seem that Gen. Lambert had determin- ed to maintain his position upon the Mississippi, until he learned the result of the naval operations at its mouth. Upon the ITth, Capt. Wolsloncroft, of the artillerists, having taken a position which brought the British shipping within the range of his mortar, immediately threw them into disorder, and compelled them to retire. Upon the 18lh, Gen. Lambert having had time to receive this dis- couraging intelligence, decamped in the night sea- son, as appears from the following oiJicial commu- nication. GEN. JACKSON TO HON. JAMES MONROE. Camp below New-Orleans ^ l^th Jan 1815. Last night at 12 o'clock, the enemy precipitate- ly dtcamped and returned to their boats, leaving behind him under medical attendance eighty of his wounded, including two officers, 14< pieces of his heavy artillery, and a quantity of shot, having destroyed much of his powder. Such was the sit- uation of the ground he abandoned, and of that through which he retired, protected by cabals, re- 2i6 MEMOIRS OF doubts, infrenchmentg, and swamps on his right, and the river on his left, that I could not without encountering a risi?, which true policy did not seem to require, or to authorize, attempt to annoy him much on his retreat. We took only eight prisoners. Whether it is the purpose of the enemy to aban- don the expedition altogether, or renew his efl'orts at some other point, I do not pretend to determine with positiveness. In my own mind, however, there is but little doubt, that his last exertions have been made in this quarter; at any rate for the pre- sent season, and by the ?wxt, I hope we shall be ful- ly prepared for him. In this belief, I am strength- ened not only by the prodigious loss he has sustain- cd at the position he has just quitted, but by the failure of his fleet to pass Fort St. Philips. His loss on the ground, since the debarkation of his troops, as stated by the last prisoners and desert- ers, and as confirrried by many additional circum* stances, must have exceeded four thousand ; and was greater in the action of the 8th, than was esti- mated, from the most correct data then in his pos- session, by the inspector-general, whose report has been forwarded to you. We succeeded, on the 8th, in getting from the enemy about 1000 stand of arms of various descriptions. Since the action of the 8th, the enemy have been allowed very little respite — my artillery from both sides of the river, being constantly employed, til) ANDREW JACKSON. 24it the night, and indeed until the hour of their retreat, in annoying them. No doubt they thought it quite time to quit a position in which so little rest could be found. I am advised by Maj. Overton, who commands at Fort St. Philips, in a letter of the iSUi, that the enemy having bombarded his fort for eight or nine days, from 13 inch mortars, without effect, had, on the morning of that day, retired. I have little doubt that he would have been able to have sunk their vessels, had they attempted to run by. Giving the proper weight to all these considera- tions, I believe you will not think me too sanguine in the belief, that Louisiana is now clear of its enemy. I hope, however, I need not assure you, that wherever / command^ such a belief shall never occasion any relaxation in the measures for resist- ance. I am but too sensible, that the moment when the enemy is opposing us, is not the most proper to provide for them. I have the honour to be, Sec, ANDREW JACKSON, P. S. On the ISlh, our prisoners on shore were delivered us, an exchange having been previously- agreed to. Those who are on board the fieet, will be delivered at Petit Coquille— after which, I shall still have in my hands an excess of several hun- dred. :20th.— »Mr. Shields, purser in the navy, has to- 24& MEMOIRS OF day taVen 54 prisoners ; among them are four offi^ cers. A. J. Thus enrlfd the expedition of the British arniy, agaiii t u.e city of New-Orleans — thus ended the denionsira'ion of the British naval force, against the f rts at the mouth of the Mississippi. The de- tail ol" events which took place in this interesting and important section of the Republic, have neces- sarily been blended with the Memoirs of Gen. Jack- son. Indeed, they are identified with each other— he was ihe Jirst motion of every movement. The deeply interesting scenes through which Gen. Jackson, his army, and the citizens of New- Orleans ivere called to pass, from the 16th Decern* ber, 1814, to the ISili January, 1815, would fur- nish sut)jects for a volume far more extended than the whole of this little work. In a few pages I have endeavoured to present the reader uith the promiuet facts connected with these great events. That they were derived from sources inilisputal^iy accurate, I have the most confident assurance. A brief recapitiilation v:ould be attempted, were it not in my power to furnish the reader with the elegant and impressive address of Gen. Jnrkson to his troops npon the 31st January, which follows. ANDREW JACKSON. 24)9 Directed by Maj. Gen. Jackson, to be read at the head of each of the corps composing the line below New-Orleans, Jan. 21, 1816. ADDRIiSS. Citizens, and fellow soldiers! The enemy has re- treated, and your general has now leisure to pro- claim to the world what he has noticed with admi- ration and pride— your undaunted coiiraqe, your patriotism, and patience, under hardships and fa- tigues. Natives of different states, acting together for the first time in this camp; differing in habits and in language, instead of viewing in these cir- eumstances, the germ of distrust and division, you have made them the source of an honourable emu- lation, and from the seeds of discord itself, have reaped the fruits of an honourable union. This day completes the fourth week, since fifteen hun- dred of you attacked treble your number of men> who had boasted of their discipline and their servi- ces under a celebrated leader, in a long and event- ful war— attacked them in their camp, the moment they had profaned the soil of freedom, with their hostile tread, and inflicted a blow which was a pre- lude to the final result of their attempt to conquer, or their poor contrivances to divide us. A few hours was sufiicient to unite the gallant band, though at the moment they received the welcome order to march, they were separated many leagues, in different directions from the city. The gay ra- pidity of the march, and the cheerful countenances 250 MEMOIRS OF of the officers and men, would have induced a be- lief* that some festive entertainment, not the strife of battle, was the scene to which they hastened with so much eagerness and hiiarity. In the con- flict that ensued, the same spirit was supported, and my communications, to the executive of the U. States, have testified the spnse 1 entertained of the merits of the corps and officers 4 bat were enga- gctl. Resting on the fiehl of battle, they retired in perfect order on the next morning to these lines, destined to become the scene of future victories, which they were to share with the rest of you, my brave companions in arms. Scarcely were your lines a protection against musket shot, when on the 28th, a disposition was made to attack them with ail the pomp and parade of military tactics, as improved by those veterans of the Spanish war. Their batteries of heavy cannon kept up an in- cessant fire; their rockets illuminated the air; and under their cover, two strong columns threatened our flanks. The foe insolently thought that this spectacle was too imposing to be resisted, and in the intoxication of his pride, he already saw our lines abandoned without a contest — how were these menacing appearances met ? By shouts of defiance, by a manly countenance, not to be shaken by the roar of his cannon, or by the glare of his firework rockets; by an artillery served with superior skill, and with deadly effects JNever, my brave friends, ANDREW JACKSON. 251 can your general forget the testimonials of attach* raent to our glorious cause, of inriignant hatred to our foe, of affectionate confidence in your chief, that resounded from every rank, as he passed along your line. This animating scene damped the cour- age of the enemy ; he dropped his scaling ladders and fascines, and the threatened attack dwindled into a demonstration, which served only to shew the emptiness of his parade, and to inspire you with a just confidence in yourselves. The new year was ushered in with the most tre- mendous fire his whole artillery could produce: a few hours only, however, were necessary fur the brave and skilful men, who directed our own, to dismount his cannon, destroy his batteries, and efiectiially silence his fire. Hitherto, my brave friends, in the contest on our lines, your courage had been passive only ; you stood uith calmness, a fire that would have tried the firmness of a veteran, and you anticipated a nearer contest uith an eager- ness which was soon to be gratified. On the 8lh of January the final efi'ort was made. At the dawn of day the batteries opened, and the columns advanced. Knoning that the volunteers from Tennessee, and the militia from Kentucky, were stationed on your left, it was there they di- rected their chief attack. Reasoninj; always Irom falfc prir.ciples, they ex- pected iiltie opposition from men, whose officers 252 MEMOIRS OF even were not in uniform, who were ignorant of tlie rules of dress, and who had never been caned into discipline. Fatal mistake ! a fire incessantly kept up, directed with a calmness and unerring aim, strewed tht field with the bravest officers and men, of the column which slowly advanced, according to the most approved rules of European tactics, and was cut down by the untutored courage of Ameri- can militia. Unable to sustain this galling and unceasing fire, some hundreds nearest the intrench- nient called for quarter, which was granted — the rest retreating, were rallied at some distance, but only to make them a surer mark for the grape and cannister shot of our artillery, which, without exag- geration, mowed down whole ranks at every dis- charge ; and at length they precipitately retired from the field. Our right had only a short contest to sustain with a few rash men, who fatally for themselves, forced their entrance into the unfinished redoubt on the river. They were quickly dispossessed, and this glorious day terminated with the loss to the enemy, of their coraniandtrin-chief and one major-general kilh'd, another major general wounded, the most experienced and bravest of their officers, ami more than three thousand nun killed, wounded and miss- ing, while our ranks, my friends, were thinned on- ly by the loss of seven of our brave companions kill- ed, and six disabled by wounds — wonderful interpo- ANDREW JACKSON. ^53 sition of heaven ! unexampled event in the history of war ! Let us be grateful to the God of battles, who has directed the arrows of indignation agaiuvst our in- vaders, while he covtred with his protecting shield the brave defenders of their country. After this unsuccessful and disastrous attempt, their spirits were broken, their force was destroyed, and their whole attention was employed in provi- ding the means of escape. This they have effect- ed ; leaving their heavy artillery in our power, and many of their wounded to our clemency. The con- sequences of this short but decisive campaign, are incalculably important. The pride of our arrogant enemy humbled, his forces broken, his leaders kill- ed, his insolent hopes of our disunion frustrated — his expectation of rioting in our spoils and wasting our country, changed into ignominious defeat, shameful tiight, and a reluctant acknowledgment of the humanity and kindness of those, whom he had doomed to all the horrors and humiliation of a con- quered state. On the other side, unanimity established, disaffec- tion crushed, confidence restored, your country saved from conquest, your property from pillage, your wives and daughters from insult and violation — the union preserved from dismemberment, and perhaps, a period put by this decisive stroke, to a bloody and savage vvar. These, my brave friends, ' X 254 MEMOIRS OF are the consequences of the efforts you have made, and the success with which they have been crowned by heaven. Tiiese important results have been eiFected by the unitt d courage and perseverance of the army ; but which the dilFerent corps, as well as the indi- viduals that compose it, have vied with each other in their exertions to produce. The gratitude, the admiration of their country, offers a fairer reward, than that which any praises of the general can be- stow, and the best is that of which they can never be deprived, the consciousness of having done their duty, and of meriting the applause they will receive. The history of modern warfare furnishes innu« jnerable instances of enthusiastic and ardent appeals to the pride and courage of soldiers, before battles were fought, and most extravagant exaggerations of their achievements, after they were won. In the addresses of Gen. Jackson to his troops, before he entered the sanguinary field, nothing is to be dis- covered but the cool, dignified, and majestic lan- guage of a great commnndtv, pi'rpared for victory. When he had vanquished his foe, the highest en- comium he could bestow upon his officers and sol- diers was, that they had answered his expectations. In no instance but one, in the numerous battles he had fought and conquered, had he occasion to ex- press regret at the conduct of any portion of his ANDREW JACKSON. 255 troops; and in (hat very instance, he gained one of the greatest victories recorded in modern history— that of the 8th January, 1815. His agitation at losing the right bank of the Mississippi, for only a few hours, compelled him to say to a section of his little army, that he was disappointed. With Gen. Jackson, victory was never the result of accident or fortune. It was the necessary effect produced by a known cause. Although invariably victorious, it would be a miserable eulogy to pro- nounce him a /or^Mwr?^^ commander. He left no- thing to be i\tcU\ti\ by the capricious " fortune of war," which as often gives glory to a blundering braggadocio, as to an accomplished general. He acted as though he was the guardian, as m ell as the commander of the soldiers, and as if he was ac- countable for every limb and life lost by executing his commands. The manner in which he defended New Orleans, evinced the solicitude he felt for the lives of his soldiers ; and although he was conscious that it would assuage the sorrow of the surviving friends of slain heroes, to declare that they died covered with glory, yet, in restoring them to the bosoms of their connections, with the laurels of victory upon their living brows, and \ht ardour of patriotism in their beating hearts, he felt as if he was rendering to his countrymen and to his country, the best account of his battles and his victories. The astonishing disparity in the losses of the 256 MEMOIRS OF American and Rritisli armies, Avould stagger the belief of the reader, were it not presented to him from most indubitable evidence. From official re- ports, now in the War Office, it appears that the whole loss of the Americans, before New-Orleans, and at the mouth of the Mississippi, was as follows : Killed. Wounded. Missing. Total. Dec. 23d, Dec. 28th, Jan. 1st, : Jan. 8th, : From 9th to ITth, at Fort St. Philips, 24^ 7 U 13* ! 2 115 : 74 : ^13 8 : 00 : 15 23 : 00 : 34 30 : 19 : 62 7 : 00 : 9 333 were kiiled- -of the Thus it appears that but 57 were killed- 183 wounded, it is not known that any one died ; and of the 93 missing, it is not known that but one deserted, and he m as hung before the British camp, by order of the commander, immediately after the final victory over him.f Notwithstanding the se- verity of the season — the excessive labour and fa- tigue of the troops, and the want of camp equipage, but few died ; so that it may be said of Gen. Jack- * But seven were killed in the engagement. t This man was the only deserter from Gen. Jackson's army. He told Sir Edward ivbere the weakest part of the American lines were, having nothing but Tennessee and Kentucky militia to defend it. Th« principal column of the enemy attacked that point. After the defeat, *bey raided at the deserter and hung him. ANDREW JACKSON. 25 son, as it was said of an ancient warrior—*' He was twice a conqueror, for he brought home full num- bers.'' The loss of the British, from their own acknowl- edgment, and from the most correct accounts, must have been from 4:500 to 5000. Ttie mention of New-Orleans, while it calls up the most grateful and animated recollection of Americans, reminds Englishmen of one of the most disastrous defeats recorded in the history of their country. X2 258 WEMOIKS OF CHAPTER XVII. Gen. Jackson appoints a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise, for the vic- tories obtained, and for the preservation of the city, upon the 23d January — Doct. Dubourg's Address — the General's answer — con- tinues his exertions to render the country more secure — surrender cf Fort Bowyer — peace proclainfied — discharge of troops — General Jackson's address to them — Remark. The attention of the reader is now to be called from scenes of carnage, wounds, death, defeat, and victory, to one, the most deeply interesting that can possibly be presented to the view of man. He is to be suddenly transported from those appalling scenes, which, if tears are permitted to soil the purity of heaven, must make the angels weep, to one which must make them rejoice. Gen. Jackson, his gallant officers, and his troops, although loaded with earthly honours, and greeted with the acclamations of a grateful and protected people, did not omit to render that homage which is due to that Almighty Being, who *♦ reigns in the armies of heaven above, as nell as in the earth be- ?ieath." A day of thanksgiving and solenm praise, was appointed by the general. It was upon the 23d of January. The solemn rites were performed in the Cathedral in New-Orleans. To behold a war- worn veteran, like Gen. Jackson, surrounded by his ANDREW JACKSON. 259 war-worn officers and troops, prostrated upon the altar of adoration, aud oiTeringto the God of Bat- tles, that glory which the world had bestowed up- on thei?i, must have moved the heart of apathy itself. It is totally impossible for one who was not a wit- ness of the scene, to have a conception of its solemn grandeur. The solemn peals of the organ, in uni- son vv ith vocal praises, sent up to heaven the grate- ful acknowledgments of a preserved people. " Grim visag^d nar had smoothed its ?vrinkled front^' — tears of exquisite joy rolled down the cheeks of soldiers and citizens, and the hearts of all were swollen with gratitude to the King of kings, and Lord of lords. The Republic was safe ; a vaunting foe was over- thrown, and, although the memories of the few who had fallen in the sanguinary field — ^^ in sad reme^n- hrance Tose^'' it was a subject of inexpressible con- solation, that almost all the soldiers who had form- ed the impregnal)le rampart upon the plains of the Mississippi, were now assembled in the city, which owed its preservation to their valour, and to the blessing of heaven. Upon this occasion, the Rev. Doct. Dubourg, the administrator apostolic of the diocese of Louisiana, delivered to the General an address, replete with the pious effusions of the Christian, and the elegan- cies of the scholar. Although it has long been be- fore the public, I cannot omit to enrich this volume by inserting a part of it, together with the impres- 260 MEMOIRS Of sive answer of Gen. Jackson. While they will be read with rapture by the Christian, they cannot fail to excite the admiration of the patriot. The venerable minister of the gospel thus ad- dressed the Hero of New-Orleans, and the gallant officers and soldiers who had followed him to victo- ry, and now joined him in adoration : — *' General, — While the state of Louisiana, in the joyful trans- ports of her gratitude, hails you as her deliverer, and the assertor of her menaced liberties — while grateful America, so lately wrapped up in anxious suspense, on the fate of this important city, is re- echoing from shore to shore, your splendid achieve- ments, and preparing to inscribe your name on her immortal rolls, among those of her Washingtons — while history, poetry, and the monumental arts, will vie, in consigning to the admiration of the latest posterity, a triumph, perhaps, unparalleled in their records — while thus raised by universal acclamation, to the very pinnacle of fame — how easy had it been for you, General, to forget the Prime Mover of your wonderful successes, and to assume to yourself a praise, which must essentially return to that ex- alted source, whence every merit is derived. But, better acquainted with the nature of true glory, and justly placing the summit of your ambition, in approving yourself the worthy instrument of hea- ven's merciful designs, the first impulse of your re- ligious heart was, to acknowledge the interposition ANDREW JACKSON. 261 of Providence— .your first step, a solemn display of your humble sense of His favours. Still agitated at the remembrance of those dreadful agonies, from which we have been so miraculously rescued, it is our pride to acknowjedge, that the Almighty has truly had the principal hand in our deliverance, and to follow you, General, in attributing to His in- finite goodness, the homage of our unfeigned grati- tude. Let the infatuated votary of a blind chance, deride our credulous simplicity; let the cold heart- ed atheist look for the explanation of important events, to the mere concatenation of human causes: to us, the whole universe is loud in proclaiming a Supreme Ruler, who, as he holds the hearts of men in his hand, holds also the thread of all contingent occurrences. To Him, therefore, our most fervent thanks are due, for our late unexpected rescue. It is Him we intend to praise, when considering you, General, as the man of his right hand, whom he has taken pains to fit out for the important commission of our de- fence. We extol that fecundity of genius, by which, under the most discouraging distress, you created unforeseen resources ; raised, as it were, from the ground, hosts of intrepid warriors, and provided every vulnerable point with ample means of defence. To Him we trace that instinctive supe- riority of your mind, which at once rallied around you universal confidence; impressed one irresistible 202 MEMOIRS OF moveniPnt to all the jarring elements of which this puiiiical machine is composed ; aroused their slum- bering spirits, and did'used through every rank the nohle ardour which glowed in your bosom. To Him, in fin«% we address our acknowledgments for that consummate prudence, which defeated all the combinations of a sagacious enemy, entangled him in the very snares which he had spread for us, and succeeded in effecting his utter destruction, without exposing the lives of our citizens. Immortal thanks be to his Supreme Majesty, for sending us such an instrument of His bountiful designs! A gift of that value, is the best token of the continuance of His protection — the most solid encouragement to sue for new favours. The first, which it emboldens us hum- bly to supplicate, as nearest our throbbing hearts, is that you may long enjoy the honour of your grate- ful country; of which you will permit us to present you a pledge, in this Wreath of Laurei., the prize of victory, the symbol of immortatity. The next is a speedy and honourable termination of the bloody contest, in which we are engaged. No one has so efficaciously laboured as you. General, for the accel- eration of that blissful period: may we soon reap that sweetest fruit of your splendid and uninterrupt- ed victories." The General thus replied to this solemn and im*^ pressive address. His allusion to the "cypress ANDREW JACKSON. 263 leaf," a symbol of grief and wo, is inimitably fine. Cypress groves were constantly in view of tlie rival armies, during their sanguinary conflicts, and they will hereafter remind Englishmen of the carnage committed amongst his infatuated counfrymen, in- vading our soil, by the gallant armies of the Repub- lic in defending it. ''Reverend Sir, — T receive, with gratitude and pleasure, the symbol crown, which piefy has prepa- red, I receive it in the name of the brave men who so effectually seconded ray exertions — they well deserve the laurels which their country will bestow. For myself, to have been instrumental in the de- liverance of such a country, is the greatest blessing that heaven could confer. That it has been effect- ed with so little loss— that so few tears should cloud the smilrs of our trisimph, and not a cypress leaf be interwoven in the wreath which you present, is a source of the most exquisite pleasure. I thank you, reverend Sir, most sinrfrely, for the prayers which you offer up for my happiness. May those your patriotism dictates for our beloved country, be first beard; and nsay mine, for your individual pros- perity, as well as that of the cong;resi:ation commit- ted to your care, be favourably received : the pros- perity, wealth, and happiness of this city, will then 264 MEMOIRS OF be commensurate with the courage and other quali- ties of its inhabitants.'* Gen. Jackson, although he felt as if Louisiana and its capital were safe, did not remit any of his exer- tions to render the country still more secure. With the assistance of his beloved associates, Generals Coifee, Carroll, Atlair, Sec anrs of Europe ! With what patience did you submit to priva- tions —with IV hat fortitude did you endure fatigue'— what valour did you display in the day of batilej Y')u have secured to America a proud name among the nations of the earth—a glory which will never perish. Possessing those dispositions, which eq'ialiy adorn the citizen and the solditr, the expect^itions of your country will be met in peace, as her wishes have been gratified in war. Go then, my brave companions, to your homes; to those tender con- nections, and Wissful scenes, which render life so dear — ^full of honour, and crowned with laurels which will never fade. When participating, in the bosoms of your families, tl^e enjoyment of peaceful life, with what happiness will you not look back to the toils you have borne — to the dangers you have encoiustered ? How will all your past exposures be converted into sources of inexpressible delight? Wlio, that never experienced your suiTerings, will be able to appreciate your joys ? The man who slumbered ingloriousiy at home, during your pain- ful marches, your nights of watchfulness, an«l your days of toil, will envy you the happiness which these recollections will aiford— .still more will he envy the gratitude of that country, which you have m eminently contributed to save. Continue, fellow- 2GS KEMOIRS OF soldiers, on your passage to your several destiim- tions, to preserve that subordination, that dignified and manly deportment, which have so ennobled your character.^ While the commanding general is thus giving indulgence to his feelings, towards those brave com- panions, who accompanied him through difficulties and danger, he cannot permit the names of Blount, and Shelby, and Holmes, to pass unnoticed. With what generous ardour and patriotism, have these distinguished governors contributed ail their exer- tions; and the success which has resulted, will be to them a reward more grateful than any which the pomp of title, or the splendour of wealth, can bestow. What happiness it is to the commanding general, that while danger was before him, he was, on no occasion, compelled to use towards his companions in arms, 3 ither severity or rebuke. If, after the enemy had retired, improper passions began their empire in a few unworthy bosoms, and rendered a resort to energetic measures necessary for their sup- pression, he has not confounded the innocent with the guilty — the seduced with the seducers. To- wards you, fellow-soldiers, the most cheering recol- lections exist, blended, alas! with regret, that dis- ease and war should have ravished from us so many worthy companions. But the memory of the cause in which they perished, and of the virtues which ANDREW JACKSON, ^69 animated them, while livins;, must occupy the place where sorrow would claim to dwell. Farewell, fellow-soldiers. The expression of your General's thanks is feeble, but the gratitude of a country of freemen is yours — yours the applause of an admiring world.'* In this address to the troops, the solicitude of Gen. Jackson for the reputation of the army, is chdrly evinced. Aware that the exultation they felt from the victories they had obtained, and the animation that aroused them to enthusiasm, at the «* wreath of laurel" bestowed upon them by their countrymen, might occasion aberrations from the regijlar walk of sober citizens, he exhorted them not to tarnish in peace, the glory they had acquired in war. The troops thus dismissed by their com- mander, had to march from 5 to 800 miles, before they reached their homes. The citizens, inhabiting the country through which they passed, so far from treating them with distant coldness, and extorting from them the pittance they had obtained for de- fending the Republic, (conduct not unknown to some parts of America,) received them with un- bounded hospitality, and congratulated them as the gallant defenders of American Independence. Y 2 2(0 MEMOIRS OF CHAPTER XVIII. Recapitulation of facts relative to the proclamation of Martial Law, writ of habeas corpus^ LouailUer, and Judge Hall — Arrest of Gen. Jackson — his defence, conviction, and fine — Trial by jury — Popular feeling — Moderation of Gen. Jackson — he advises to a sacred re- gard for civil power. It will be recollected by the reader, that upon the 16th December, Gen. Jackson proclaimed mar- tial law in Nevv-Orleans, and in the environs of it. The reasons of that measure, have already been briefly given, and the imperious necessity of adopt- ing it demonstrated. Next to the efficient meas- ures of defence below the city, the peoj)le are in- debted to the temporary execution of this system of government, for their salvation from the horrors of British invasion. That the military power must be secondary to the civil, is an axiom in our Republic generally as- sented to. That they are both, on great emergen- cies, to support the honour, dignity, and independ- ence of the States, is a sentiment no less generally prevalent. It is a principle, that may be said to be coeval with the formation of civil government, that laws are silent in the midst of arms, or as the Romans had it, ^^ leges silent inter arma^ These principles are each to have an influence upon the ANDREW JACKSON". 271 mind, in forming an opinion of the propriety of Gen. Jackson's conduct, in regard to the suppression of the civil authority at New. Orleans, and the le- gislature of Louisiana, at that time in session there, Nothing but the agitation produced at the ap- proach of imminent danger upon fearful minds, can furnish the least palliation for the extraordinary course pursued by the city police of New-Orleans, and the legislature of Louisiana, during the most portentous period of their history, i. e. from the 16th December, 1814, to the middle of Feb. 1815. These confident assertions would not be made, were they not susceptible of the clearest proof. The existence of that state of things which led to the declaration of martial law, by Gen. Jackson, has been partly unfolded, by presenting the reader, in a preceding chapter, with what was deemed appro- priate extracts, from the correspondence of Gov. Claiborrje with him. This evidence must be com- pletely satisfactory, as it was derived from a dis- tinguished civil othcer, who must, with distressing reluctance, have detailed to the world, the melan- choly confession of facts so derogatory to the dig- nity and to the patriotism of the legislature, over whom he presided, and of the city, where they were in session. It will never, however, be forgot- ten, that the police of New Orleans, at this perilous period, was not in accordance with the wishes of a great proportion of its patriotic citizens ; nor did 373 MEMOIRS OF the timorous, and vascillating policy of the legisla- ture, coincide with the ardent desires of a great number of its menihers. A number of them follow- ed the governor from the house of legislation, to the camp of Gen. Jackson, and shewed that they felt more solicitous to preserve their state from the contaminating footsteps of a bar!)arous enemy, than to remain in conclave, debating upon questions of punctilious etiquette, between the civil and milita- ry powers. It has already been stated, that a majority of the senate and house of representatives, in the state le- gislature of Louisiana, were opposed to the requisi- tions which Gov. Claiborne had made upon the Louisiana militia. The patriotism of the miiitia, however, was not to be damped by a legislative veto^ and they followed their patriotic governor to the field ; and while they were repelling the tre- mendous assault of the enemy, upon the 28th Dec. with their brave countrymen from Tennessee, Ken- tucky, and Mississippi, the legislature were actually engaged in debating the question, whether they should not surrender the capital and state, to the British army — and make the best terms they could with Sir Edward Pakenham ! ! Gen. Jackson order- ed Gov. Claiborne, to repair to the city with a re- quisite number of troops, to preserve it from the danger of their own legislature, while he would defend it from tiie enemy hanging upon its borders. ANDREW JACKSON. 273 This order was promptly execiiled, and the legisla- ture, by their own governor, was prevented from sacrificing the city as a victim to their own fears. To see a state legisiature gravely taking measures to negociate with the enemy of the whole Republic, evinced almost a complete deterioration of intellect. The commander of the forces, so fdr as his power extends, is the representative of the national pow- er— Ae only must be the judge of what will conduce to the safety of the country ; he commands; and he ©nly is accountable for the measures that may be adopted. If New-Orleans had been sacrificed by the commander, in a manner as dastardly as was Detroit, the same disgrace would now have been attached to the name of Jackson, as there is to that of Hull; but by defending it against the power of the enemy, the intrigues of some of its citizens, and the feverish agitation of the legislature, he has placed himself beyond the reach of rivalship, upon the roils of fame. Without pursuing this subject farther, the reader is now called to leave the legislature of Louisiana, in 1814 — 15^ where facts have left it, and follow Gen. Jackson from the solemn scene of thanksgiving to heaven, and the acclamations of a preserved people for victories obtained, to answer for his »«/*- tary conduct before a judicial tribunal. To a be- liever in the doctrine of decrees, it would seem to have been fore-ordaincd, that Andrew Jackson 274i MEMOIRS OF shouU! be the instrument of procurino; the greatest temporal Messings lor his country ; and that the ingrntitinie of republics should have made him, in some rtspects, a siu;ndi instance, to show thai they arc slili uns;rciteful. Gen. Jdckson fonnii himself under the imperious necessity of continuing the execution of martial law, until the enemy haci totally abandoned his hostile views ac^ainst New-Orleans and Mobile; or until the rumcuirs of peace were confirnied by c/fficial communications from the War Department. Upon the first circulation of these rumours, the troops evinced the utmost impatience, and a spirit of in- subordination pervaded the army before i\ew-Or- leans. From his knowledge of the innumerable stratagems of the enemy, to ^ain by the policy of war, what they had despaired of acquiring by the force of arms, Gen. Jackson vv&s appreiiensive that they had devised this report, to lull the soldiers and citizens into a fatal security, and to take the first favourable opportunity that ofi'ered, to invade the country, and subject it to British dominion. A member of the legislature, by the name of XoMm7//Vr, had published in a New. Orleans gazette, an article calculated to excite rebellion in the Amer- ican army, and to encourage the enemy to renew their attack. Gen. Jackson immediately ordered him to be arrested and confined. Mr. Dominic A* flail, judge of the district, immedldtely issued a ANDREW JACKSON. 2T5 writ of habeas corpus, directed to Gen. Jackson, comniandine^ him to show reasons for the detention of this legislator. The general, knowing that his appearance before his troops, in a time of danger, ^vas of more consiquence to hiscoimtry, than his appearance before a judge, who was endeavouring, by the exercise of judicial power, to protect a do- mestic enemy, immediately ordered Judge Hail to be arref=ted and sent out of the city. The trial was postponed until the country was secured. In a very few days after this coujmencement of war between the military power of the American Republic, and the judicial authority at New Orleans, peace was officially announced to Gen. Jackson, from the War Department, *' between his Britannic Majesty and the United States^ and between their re- spective countries, territories^ cities, towns, and peo- ple, of every degree, without exception of places or persons." The joy that filled every heart at the return of peace, was ndni;Ied with gratitude to Gen. Jackson, his long tried, brave, and patriotic officers, and gallant soldiers, for their protection in time of war. But amidst this exhiiirating scene, the sullen murmurs of disappointed faction, were heard in discordant notes; and the very men who were indebted to Gen. Jackson and his army, for the preservation of their lives, fortunes and fami- lies, seemed to be actuated by the bitterest malice against him. ^rC MEMOIRS OF It was upon the 11th March, that Judge Hail was removed from New-Orleans — upon the 13th, the ratification of the treaty of Ghent was officially announced there — upon the 19th, military opera- tions were brought to a close between the two ar- mies — and upon the 31st, Gen. Jackson was arrest- ed and brought before the saine Judge Hall^ to an- swer for his contempt of the court, for not answer- ing insfantery to the habeas corpus, and for impris- oning the Judge who issued it ! ! From the nature of the subject, and the mode of proceeding, this may be pronounced by the legal profession, to be causa pritnce imprcssionis. Called thus suddenly from the encampment of an army, before a court of law, Gen. Jackson divested himself of the stern character of the soldier, and resumed the more gentle one of the advocate — not to defend a client, as he often had done, against groundless charges ; but to save himself from the vengeance of infuriated malice. The defence he made, has been before the public ever since he made it. It is a source of regret, that the insertion of it entire, cannot be made. It comprises not only the facts upon which it w as grounded, but a profound disquisition upon the civil and military power, in a time of imminent danger. The following selections from it will show the reasons, in addition to those already given, why he proclaimed and enforced martial law — imprisoned a legislative scribbler— ANDREW JACKS9N. 277 negiecfed io regard a writ of habeas corpus^ and compelled the judge who issued it to leave Ihe city of New-Orleans. In this defence, the general says, " A disciplined and powerful army was on our coast, commanded by officers of fried valour, and consummate skill ; their fleet had already destroyed the fee ble defence, on which, alone, we could rely, to prevent their landing on our shores. Their point of attack was uncertain — a hundred inlets were to be guarded, by a force not sufficient in number for one; we had no lines of defence; treason lurked amongst us, and only waited the mo- ment of expected defeat, to show itself openly. Our men were few, and of those {t\w^ not all were armed ; our utter ruin, if we failed, at hand, and inevitable; everything depended on the prompt and energetic use of the means we possessed, in callinu; the whole force of the community into ac- tion ; a was a contest for the very existence of the state, and every nerve was to be strained in its de- fence. The physical force of every individual, his moral faculties, his property, and the energy of his example, were to be called into action, and instant action. No delay — no hesitation— no inquiry about rights, or all was lost ; and every thing dear to man, his property, life, the honour of his family, his country, its constitution and laws, were swept away by the avowed principles, the open practice of th<* Z tf^ MEBIOIRS OF enemy, with whom we had to contend. FortiGca^ tions were to be erected, supplies procured, arms souglit for, requisitions made, the emissaries of the enemy watched, lurking treason overawed, insub- ordination punished, and the contagion of cowardly example to be stopped. In this crisis, and under a firm persuasion that none of those ol^jects could be eiTected, by the exercise of the ordinary powers confided to him— under a solemn conviction that the country com- mitted to his care, could be saved by that measure only, from utter ruin — under a religious belief, that he was performing the most important and sacred duty, the respondent proclaimed martial law. He intended, by that measure, to supercede such civil powers, as in thtir operation interfered with those he was obliged to exercise. He thought, in such a moment, constitutional foni^s must be sus- penfled, for the permanent preservation of constitu» tional rights, and that there could be no question whether it were best to depart, for a moment, from the enjoyment of our dearest privileges, or have them wrested from us for ever. He knew, that if the civil magistrate were permitted to exercise his usual functions, none of the measures necessary to avert the awful fate that threatened us, could be expected. Personal liberty cannot exist, at a time when every man is required to become a soldier ANDKEW JACKSON. 2T0 Private property cannot be secured, when its use is indispensable to the public safety. Unh'mited liberty of speech is incompatible with the discipline of a camp; and that of the press, more dangerous still, when made the vehicle of conveying intelligence to the enemy, or exciting mutiny among the troops. To have suffered the uncontrolled enjoyment of any of those rights, dur- ing the time of th€ late invasion, would have been to abandon the defence of the country. The civil magistrate is the guardian of those rights ; but no further.*' In perusing the preceding extract, the reader must feel a pride in reflecting, that Gen. Jackson, and many other officers in the army of the Republic, have acquired the science of Statesmen, as well as the fame of Soldiers. The General, in his masterly defence, minutely and forci^^ly assigns the reasons for the course he jjursued in regard to LouailUer, the writ of habeas corpus^ and Judge Hall ; and proceeds — " To have silently looked on such an offence, without making any attempt to punish it, would have been a formal surrender of all discipline, all order, all personal dignity, and public safety. This could not be done ; and the respondent immediatefy ^80 1UE3JOIES Of ordered the arrest of the offender. A writ of habeas corpus was directed to issue for his enlargement. The very case which had been foreseen ; the very contingency on which martial law was intended to operate, had nokv occurred. The civil magistrate seemed to think it his duty, to enforce the enjoy- ment of civil rights, although the consequences which have been described, would probably have resulted. An unbending sense of what he seemed to think his station required, induced him to order the lil>eration of the prisoner. This, under the re- spondent's sense of duty, produced a conflict, which it was his wish to avoid. No other course remained, than to enforce the principles which he had laid down as his guide, and to suspend the exercise of the judicial power when« ever it interfered with the necessary means of de- fence. The only v.ay effectually to do this, was to place the judge in a situation, in which his inter- ference could not counteract the measures of de- fence, or give countenance to the mutinous dispo- sition that had shown itself in so alarming a degree. Merely to have disregarded the writ, would have increased the evil, and to have obeyed it was wholly repugnant to the respontient's ideas of the public safety, and to his own sense of duty. The judge was therefore confined, and removed beyond the lines of defence." AND.REW JACKSON. 281.. After denying the jurisdiction of the court, and claiming, as a. constitutional right, a trial by jury, he thus concludes a defence, which the jurist may read with advantage, and the patriot with adrai- ration. ** This was the conduct of the respondent, and these the motives which prompted it. They have been fairly and openly exposed, to this tribunal, and to the world, and would not have been accom- panied by any exceptions or waver of jurisdiction, if it had been deemed expedient to give him that species of trial, to which he thinks himself entitled by the constitution of his country. The powers which the exigency of the times- forced him to assume, have been exercised exclu- sively for the public good ; and, by the blessing of God, they have been attended with unparalleled success. They have saved the country ; and what- ever may be the opinion of that country, or the de- crees of its courts, in relation to the means he has used, he can never regret that he employed them." The trial by jury, however much it may be. sneered at, by the possessors and advocates of un- defined power, has secured to Englishmen the few rights remaining to them. To Americans it is se- cured by our inimitable Constitution; but in th« instance before the reader, it was refused to Qm* 383 HiEMOIRS 6/ Jackson, by callinc: in the aid of the common law of England, to ensure the conviction of the respon- dent for (onttmpt of court ! ! Dominic A. Hall was thejihige whose dignity was alleged to he alfecled by Contempt of court—Dominic A. Hall was the man who was said to have sustained an individual injury hy the operation of martial law — Dominic A. iiail was the judge who ivould have jurisdiction of the case — who deprived Gen. Jackson of a trial by jury, and who amerced him in a fine of a thou- sand dollars ! ! Half of this sum must have been expended in delays, costs of prosecution, and in the expenses of making defence, and the whole fifteen hundred dollars, was drawn out of the pocket of the man whose indefatigal)le exertions, consummate wisdom, and gallant courage, had secured to the jndge the privihge of convicting him. The records of Judge JelTery himself, scarcely furnished a parallel with this proceeding. An Eng- lish /wr,^ saved Penn and ^Iff^aiif?— afterwards the Dean of St, Asaph, and in the present reign, Tookc^ Hardtj and ihclwcit, from the grasp of a vindictive sninistry, and subservient judiciary ; and had Gen. Jackson been arraigned before an impartial and an independent jury of Americans, allowed toconsider his 7Z'/to/e' case, with what readiness would they have pronounced a verdict of " not guilty,'* and changed the indignant murmurs of the audience at his con tiction, into joyous acclamations at his acquittal-. ANDREW JACKSON. 28S Gen. Jackson immediately satisfied the judgment, and retired from the court to his carriage. Tlie throng that surrounded the hall oi jixsiicG, could not repress their feelings* The horses were unharnes- sed — the carriage elevated upon their shouhlers, and the Hero of New-Orleans was, in this manner^ borne through the streets to his lodgings, by its pro- tected and setured citizens. Flattering as was this demonstration of respect and admiration for /*/;«, the General was apprehensive that it was evincive of some disrespect for civil power, and addressed them, in the most pathetic manner. This address is before the writer; but its length forbids its in- sertion. He acknowledged the civility of the peo- ple, not with the studied formality of fashionable etiquette, but with the impassioned eloquence of the heart. He exhorted the people whom he lov- ed, and who almost adored him, not to suffer the ebullitions of passion, to make them forget the re- spect due to civil authority. They oiiered to pay the amount of the fine inflicted upon him, but he declined receiving it ; and retired to his lodgings with the unassumed dignity of conscious integrity. It is with pride, mingled with veneration, that the writer is enabled thus to furnish the reader with conclusive evidence, of the dignified modera- tion of a conqueror, who conquered, not to aggran- dize himself, but to render secure that independ- m:ration, and his family from massa- cre. He had seen an expanded wilderness, where the majestic silence of nature was broken only by the howling of beasts, the yells of savages, and the tumbling of waters, converted into a region of civi- lization, where the arts, so conducive to the happi- ness of man, and the sriences, which enlarges his views, were practised and taught. He had seen, in the space of a quarter of a century, a new people arise in a new country, to an elevation equal to that of many portions of the globe, which have enjoyed the meftimable blessings of civilization for many centuries. He had seen a constitution established 2SS MEMOIRS OF to secure the rie^hts of the people — courts instituted to administer justice, and three universities founded to diffuse the lights of science. He had sustained many important offices in the state, and had repre- sented it in both branches of the national govern- ment, and had laboured to render the civil, reli- gioiis, and political rights of the people secure. To protect these enjoyments, he had, at the call of his fellow citizens, led them into the heart of a country of savaqes, and conquered them into peace. He also had led *hem into the face of the most formi- dable and best disciplined army, that ever assailed the American Republic, and com})elled those of them who were not left to moulder in the soil they invaded, to flee from destruction. At Nashville he fotmd himself surrounded by his grateful fellow- citizens, in the enjoyment of peace and happiness; and by his accomplished officers and gallant sol- diers, who had, by their courage, rendered them se- cure. Terrestrial regions could not afford a scene more impressively interesting. In General Jackson the people recosrnized a Statesman, whose labori- ous and scientific exertions had conduced greatly to the security of their political rights; and a Sol- dier, whose valour had defended them from viola- tion. In the people who now surrounded him, the General recognized virtuous and industrious citi- zens, and faithful and gallant soldiers. Gen. Jackson had received a message, some time ANDREW JACKSON, 289 previous to his arrival at Nashville, to repair to the seat of government, to render that assistance which his knowledge and experience enabled him to afford, in organizing a peace establishment in the army of the Republic. Indispensable duties, in the district under his command, rendered a compliance impos- sible. The task which devolved upon the War, and the other Departments of the government, in disband- ing an army, which, in the last campaign of the war, had every where covered itself with glory, was important and delicate in the extreme. To the private soldier^ whose toils had been severe, wliose privations had been hard, and w hose reward at the conclusion of the war was ample, to be restored to private life, was a gratification. But to officers, from the highest to the lowest grade, who entered the service more for the acquisition of fame than fortune — who had left promising prospects in pri- vate life, to defend their endangered country— for such men \o be dismissed from the service, with which they had become familiar, and be compelled to return again to the dull pursuits of civil life, which has but a few charms for the soldier, was a difficwlt, although a npcess?iry duty. The American Republic is nrd a military govern- ment — and an overgrown standing army, in a time of peace, cannot be maintained. From the immense extent of the country— from Aa 2%0 MEMOIRS OF the number of its forts on the sea-board, and fron- tier, a small standing force is nect^ssary, and a small one only, in a time of peace, will be endured by the people. Conversant with the history of ancient and modern military governments, the American people are jealous of military power. A necessary military force will always be supported — a super- numerary army, will always be considered and op. posed as dangerous. At the conclusion of the sec- ond war between the American Republic and the kingdom of Great-Britain, the government decided that te?i thousand troops, properly proportioned, as to officers and soldiers, should constitute the peace establishment — probably the smallest standing army, considering the extent, population, and importance of the country, in any nation in the world. Many officers, who would have adorned any array, must have been dismissed by the reduction of the Ameri- can army, from the war to the peace establishment. The whole of the Republic was divided into two divisions, or departments — the South, and the North. Maj. Gen. Jackson was appointed com- mander in chief of the Division of the South. His appointment to this important command, met with the approbation of the country. His ability to command, had been proved by obtaining a series of victories, over the most warlike tribe of savages, and the best disciplined armies in the world, under the most disadvantageous circumstances. ANDREW JACKSON. 291 General Jackson established his head-quarters at Nashville, where he was constantly receiving the most unequivocal evidence of the gratitude of his countrymen. Minute details are incompatible with the limits of this work : otherwise the reader might be furnished with the proceedings of various legis- latures, in passing votes of thanks, expressed in the strongest terms of approbation. A vote of thanks, although unaccompanied with any pecuniary fa- vour, is, to a disinterested patriot, the highest re- ward he can receive. The legislature of Tennessee, were amongst the first to manifest their respect for the character and achievements of General Jackson. They passed a vote of thanks, and presented him "with a gold medal. They could not forget his gal- lant associatesj Gens. Coffee and Carroll, to whom they presented elegant swords. A British parliament, when it bestows the title of a duke, also drains the treasury, to purchase a dukC' dom for the ennobled subject, and compels the hum- ble subjects to refund it, by imposing exorbitant taxes. The American government, although ^*m5^ to its distinguished citizens and soldiers, cannot be gen- erous at the expence of the whole of them. General WASHiNGTOiNT, in i\\Q first war between the Republic and Britain, thought nothing of pecuniary reward, nor did Gen. Jackson in the second; but the one could not have been, and the other cannot be, iudif- 292 5iem6irs or ferent to the grateful applause of independent and protected Americans. All hough Gen, Jackson, in early life felt little solicitude for the accumulation or preservation of ivealth, he nevertheless, after he commenced busi- ness at Nashville, acquired by industry, and saved by frugality, a fine real estate, delightfully situated upon the !)ank of the Cumberland river. To this he might have retired, had he left the service, and have enjoyed an elegant independence. He might have surveyed his tenements and fertile fields, and have exclaimed, with exquisite delight, " these were acquired by my labour — these were defended by niy valour, and here I can enjoy domestic felicity in safety." But although the Rejiublic was at peace with all the world, it could not dispense with the military services of this great Commander. He was retained in the service, not like a pensioned duke, w ith a numerous pensioned retinue, to excite the unmeaning admiration of a degraded peasantry, but to perfect a military system for his country. The division assigned to his command, is larger than half of Europe, and requires the most consum- mate skill in the commander, to place it in a situa- tion to repel future invasions. Late in the autumn of 1815, Gen. Jackson re- paired, for the first time since the declaration of war, to the seat of government. Upon his passage thither, he received that marked attention, which ANDKEW JACKSON. 293 a grateful and an admiring people bestow, upon a distinguished benefactor. Although in time of war he avoided all parade and ceremonies inconsistent with the imperious demands of duty, yet he could not, at this period, avoid a compliance with the wishes of his countrymen, to mingle with their gal- lant defenders, nor could he avoid a reciprocation of their civility and hospitality. At Lynchburg, in Virginia, a public dinner was given him, at which the philosopher of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson, was present. The veneration that was excited by the presence of the American Statesman, could hardly restrain the enthusiasm produced by the presence of the American Hero. Although far removed from the deeply interesting scenes of Gen. Jackson's military operations, the people of this place and its vicinity, duly apprecia- ted his exalted merit. Toasts have been said to discover the undisguised sentiments of the people; and it is presumed the toast given upon this occa- sion, in reference to Gen. Jackson, by Mr. Jefferson, will be cordially assented to, by every American ; " Honour and gratitude to the man who has fil- i.ED the measure of his country's honour." Upon this oecasion, the General, knowing that the country he had defended was acquired by ne- gociatioih by the same man who had so essentially aided him in protecting it, gave for a toast— *♦ James MoiiHOE.'' Ilk ^ ^ 294 .MEMOIRS OP Upon his arrival at Washington, he was received with that dignified affability, and cordial affection, for which the President and the heads of the seve- ral departments are distinguished. No ostentatious parade, better calculated to repress than to elicit, (he feelings of the heart, was displayed upon the occasion. The civil fathers of the Republic saw before them a soldier, who had supported in the field the measures they had devised in the cabinet. Kespecting and respected, they mutually congratu- lated each other, upon the successful termination of their arduous laf)ours. In surveying the city, the ciFects of Vandal warfare, were visible in the barba- rous ravages of a British array. He saw the ruins of the Capitol and the President's house, and knew that it was in open violation of the principleis of civilized warfare that it was produced. He must have rejoiced that a Pakenham was prevented from leaving such tracks of desolation in New-Orleans, as a Ross had in Washington. At all the public parties which the General at- tended at Washington, at Georgetown, and at other places in the vicinity, he shewed, that although in time of war, a soldier must be as a lion to his ene- mies, he could, in time of peace, be a lamb to his friends — that he could " smooth the wrinkled front*^ of the soldier, and enjoy the "lulling tunt of the lute." At the table, he cnuld enjoy the luxuries it afforded, with the elegance of the gentleman— at a ANDREW JACKSON. ^95 levee, or a drawing-room, could reciprocate the ci- vilities he received, and in the ballroom, could, if he chose, display the refined accomplishments of the courtier. Mrs. Jackson accompanied her hus- band to Washington ; and every where received that distinguished respect, which her own merit, as well as admiration for the General, induced every one to bestow. But amidst the fascinating blandishments of re- fined society, and the alluring charms of elegant amusements, he never forgat his duty to his coun- trymen. More than one half of one of the largest nations in the world, in point of territory, had been assigned to his command. Although the olive-branch of peace waved over his country, where the clarion of war had, for a long time, assailed the ears of his countrymen, he never remitted his exertions to se- cure, in time of peace, by efficient regulations and necessary establishments, the rights and blessings that had been defended by the sword. It is inconsistent with the design of these me- moirs, to give a minute detail of all the interesting scenes through which Gen. Jackson passed, in his extensive private intercourse with the most exalted, as well as the middling classes of society, A Bos- well might swell the life of a Johnson to three octa^ ros, by telling the world how the "giant of litera- ture" dressed upon particular days — upon what days he drank wine with his friends— cream with 296 MEMOIRS OF his coffee^ and enriched his bunns with butter. Gen, Jackson's life is interspersed with incidents more in- teresting to his countrymen, than such events ; and it is presumed they will be more interested in the detail of them. In the spring of 1816, Gen. Jackson repaired to the great scene of his military operations, New- Orleans. It is utterly impossible to give the reader any conception ot the rapture of the people, in again seeing in the bosom of the city, the man who had saved it from carnage and destruction — its sons from murder, and its daughters from wanton violation. After the scenes of cordial congratulation were passed, he immediately reviewed the troops — ex- amined minutely into the police of the camp, and finding the troops unhealthy, resolved to have them removed to the Alabama Territory, which was soon after eii'ected. Although the health and comfort of troops, is a primary oi)ject wilh a commander, yet in addition to this consideration. Gen. Jackson considered, from former experience, that the most endangered part of the ** Division of the South,'* was that which bordered upon the Spanish provinces of Florida, in which the Alabama and Seminole Indians were embosomed. He was aware that the stationing of American troops upon their borders, would tend to restrain their barbarity ; and that they could more promptly he punished when committed. Subse- quent events, shewed the vvigdom of this measure* ikNDKEW JACKSON* 2^7 CHAPTER XX. Gen. Jackson aegociates a treaty for the extinguishment of lodian titles to land — Issues an order relative to this subject — Receives a silver vase from the Ladies of South-Carolina, &c — Returns to Nashville— Issues an important general order — Prepares to defend his Division--CornmeQcement of Seminole War— Gen Gaioes at- tacks the Seminoles — Gen Jackson addresses the *' Tennessee Volunteers" — repairs to Georgia — and enters with bis army into Florida — Justification of that measure — He captures St. Marks. Gen. Jackson, having discharged the important duty of regulating and stationing the army, in the southern section of the Division of the South, he entered into negociation with the Chickasaw, Choc- taw^ -Cherokee, and Creek Indian??. The ohject of the negociation, was to obtain from them, the abso- lute relinquishment of all the claim they pretended to have to lands, within the limits of the United States, and which had previously been ceded by them. This measure evinced, in a signal manner, the moderation of the American government to- ward the natives Although the territory had be- fore been ol>tained, first by conquest, after a san- guinary war, occasioned by the savages themselves, and afterwards by treaty with them, by which they acknowledged their gratitude to the government for permitting them to retain an^ territory, yet, to 2QB MEMOIRS Of pacify them completely, for the diminntion of their limits, and to extinguish their title, Gen. Jackson engaged, in hehalf of his government, to pay the Creeks ^10,000 a year, for ten years, and the Cher- okees g 10,000 a year, for eiijht years. Having accomplished this important measure, Gen. Jackson repaired to Huntsville, in the state of Mississippi, and upon the 8th of October, published an order which was sanctioned by the government, by which all citizens of the United States, were enjoined to abstain from all encroachments upon Indian lands, and ordered such as had, to be re- moved in a limited number of days. Although this might operate hard upon individuals who had acted under misapprehension, yet it was doing that justice and equity to savages, which the American govern- ment has always extended to them ; and it rendered fitill more secure the frontiers of Mississippi, Ten- nessee and Georgia. During this season, Gen. Jackson received a manifestation of respect from the ** Ladies of South- Carolina," his native state, which must have been peculfarly grateful to his feelings. They presented him, through Col. Haynes and Maj. Gadsden, with a splendid silver vase, elevated upon a pedestaL The figures attached to it are emblematical of the country's glory, and of the glory of " the man or KEw-ORLEANS.'* Upon oue side of it, a striking represenlution of tiie great battle, and an inscrip- ANDREW JACKSON. 299 tion, " EIGHTH JANUARY, 1815'^ — upoii the other, " PRESENTED BY THE LADIES OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO MAJOR GEXERAL ANDREW JACKSON." The gift was worthy of the receiver — worthy of the givers- worthy of the descendants of the patriotic matrons of South-Carolina, who, in the gloomy period of the revolution, added lustre to their characters, by exercising a benevolence as boundless as the wants of their assailed countrymen. The toils, the grief, and the death, of the venerable mother of Andrew Jackson, cannot be forgotten.^* At about the same time, the general received an- other present, although less splendid, equally appro- priate« A boot manufacturer of Pittsburgh, pre- sented him with an elegant and superb pair of tiiili^ tary boots. He received them with ereat affability, and reciprocated the civility with hip usual cordial- ity. The presentation of a pair of woollen stockings^ to the Emperor Alexander, when at London, suita- ble for the frigid climate in which he reigns, was received with all the condescension which the head of the allied sovereigns could bestow upon a pea- sant. In October, 1816, Gen. Jackson returned to his head quarters at Nashville, Tenn. It has long been his happiness, when returning to the place of his residence, from the discharge of civil and mili- tary duties abroad, to have, in his absence, raised • Vide Chap. I. page 29. 300 MEMOIRS OF an additional claim to the gratitude and admiration of his fellow-citizens. The treaty he had recently made with the Indians, was most peculiarly advan- tageous to the people of Tennessee, as it diminished, and almost allayed the apprehensions of the people, from all future fears of Indian warfare. Having become perfectly familiarized with the necessary regulation and police of an army, his at- tention was almost exclusively devoted to the in- troduction of them into the American army. In the spring of 1817, he issued the following general order, which has been the subject of severe ani- madversion, from some distinguished officers in the army, and of approbation from others. DIVISION ORDER. Jdjutant-General^s Office, H.^, Division of the South — Nashville, April 22, 1817. The commanding general considers it due to the principles of subordination, which ought and must exist in an army, to prohibit the obedience of any order emanating from the Department of War, to officers of this division, who have reported and been aspigrned to duty, unless coming through him, as the proper organ of communication. The object of this order, is to prevent the recurrence of a cir- cumstance, which removed an important officer from the division without the knowledge of the Commanding general, and indeed, when he supposec? ANDREW JACKfJdN, 301 that officer engaged in his official duties, and antici- pated hourly the receipt of his ofiicial reports, on a subject of great importance to his command ; al- so to prevent the topographical reports from being made public through the medium of the newspa- pers, as was done in the case alluded to, thereby en- abling the enemy to obtain the benefit of all our topogra[)hical researches, as soon as the general com- manding, who is responsible for the division. Su- perior officers, having commands assigned them, are held responsible to the government, for the charac- ter and conduct of that command ; and it might as well be justified in an officer, senior in command, to give orders to a guard on duty, without passing that order through the officer of that guard, as that the Department of War should countermand the arrangements of commanding generals, without giv- ing their order through the proper channel. To acquiesce in such a course, would be a tame surren- der of military rights and etiquette ; and at once subvert the established principles of subordination and good order. Obedience to the lawful com- mands of superior officers, is constitutionally and morally required : but there is a chain of commu- nication that binds the military compact, which, if broken, opens the door to diso!)edience and disre- spect, and gives loose to the turbulent spirits, who are ever ready to excite mutiny. All physicians, able to perform duty, who are absent on furlough, Bb 302 MEMOIRS Of' will forthwith repair to their respective posts. Commanding officers of regiments and corps, are ordered to report specially ^ all officers absent from duty on the 30th of June next, and their cause of absence. The army is too small to tolerate idlers, and they will be dismissed the service. By order of Mnj. Gen. Jackson, (Signed) ROBERT BUTLER, Adjutant GeneraL Until the commencement of the last war, the American Republic could hardly be said to have had a practical military system. From the conclu- sion of the war of the revolution, to that period, it had, indeed, a small military force! but they were scattered, in small sections, through an immense country, and but little of a systematic organization, or of regular subordination, was to be discerned. The collisions that unhappily subsisted in the armyj and between the army and the War Department, in the campaigns of 1812, and 1813, evince the jus- tice of the remark. It required the energy of a Monroe, in the last, and of a Jackson, Brown, Macomb, Gaines, Scott, Ripley, Sec. in the first, to give efficiency and system to the physical power of the country, when called into action. The pre- ceding general order of the Commander in Chief of the Division of the South, is inserted, not for the purpose of discussing its merits. It would be arro- ANDREW JACKSON. 303 gance in the writer to attempt if. That subject more properly belongs to the accomplished officers of the army, than to the unassuming biographer. Gen. Jackson, with that vigilance which always characterizes a great commander, extended his views through the whole of his immensely extensive division; but he was fully auare from whence the greatest, or rather the most immediate danger was to be apprehended. He was well acquainted with Spanish perfidy, and had once carried the Ameri- can arms to the capital of their North American possessions, and terror into the heart of an effemi- nate, though vindictive minister of the imbecile, though tyrannical Ferdinand VII. The sparing mercy of the American government, was extended to him and to his nation, from the most solemn as- surances, that the treaty existing between the Amer* ican and Spanish governments, should be inviolably ^ept, and faithfully executed. Without alluding to other articles, and other violations, it is sufiicient for the present purpose to state, that one article of this treaty provides, that the Spanish government shall wholly restrain the 'savages within the limits of their possessions in North America, from depre- dations of every kind upon the citizens of the United States. In the preceding parts of this work, the conduct of Manrequez, the then Spanish gov- ernor, has been unfolded. Conduct equally flagrant in outrage, was pursued by the Spanish authorities, 304 AiEMoms OP after the conclusion of peace between America and Great Britain, as was pursued during the last war. So far from restraining the hostile savages from committing depredations upon the territory, and murder upon the persons of American citizens, they were encouraged to the perpetration of these deeds, by the officers and emissaries of Spain. No thanks are due from Americans to the Span- ish authorities of Florida, for the peace which has subsisted for a considerable period, between the government and people of the American Republic, and the Choctaw^ Creeks Cherokee^ and Chickasan tribes of Indians: nor will these brave and infatu- ated sons of the forest, thank them for stimulating them to warfare, against a magnanimous nation, whose prowess, directed by the courage and wisdom of Gen. Jackson, has conquered them into a peace, advantageous to themselves — advantageous, because the sacred regard to justice, which is the leading characteristic of the American government, will inviolably regard it. These tribes, from the most correct information, could bring into the field, in 1817, 10,000 warriors: but none of them, except the disaffected, who had, by the seduction of for- eign emissaries, joined the Seniinoles, raised the hatchet against Americans. The Seminole Indians are not a '* legitimate^* tribe of native Americans. They are an associatioa of desperadoes, who have been banished from other ANDREW JACKSON. S05 tribes, and who have drawn into their confederacy many runaway negroes, whose African sullenness has been aroused to indiscriminate vengeance, by the more frantic fury of the American natives. It was from this desperate clan of outlaws from civil, and even from savage society, that the Spanish authori- ties expected to see the American settlements, upon the borders of Florida, devastated, and the settlers slain ! The British government, since the treaty of peace negociated at Ghent, had been more cautious in arming, disciplining, and driving savages into war with Americans, than it had previously been : but two of its subjects, by the names of Arhuthnot and Ambrister, had long been executing, under the specious pretext of carrying on merchandize^ the wishes of the enemies of the American Republic. To conceal their depravity, they may have furnish- ed the Seminole Indians with some few articles of clothing: but the principal articles of their traffic, were knives, hatchets^ musket Sy rifles, balls, and powder. From the year 1814 to ISIT, this ferocious clan of American savages and African negroes, commit- ted many depredations and wanton murders, in the American settlements. Gen. Edmund P, Gaines, the next in command to Gen. Jackson in the Divi- sion of the South, was stationed in the vicinity of these outrages. In a communication which would Bb2 306 iMii idioms OF grace this, or any other voUime, but which is re- luctantly oDiitted, he portrayed the open violences of the savages, and the insidious wickedness of Spanish and British emissaries, in a manner not to he disregarded. He was stationed at Fort Scott ; and had with him but part of the Tth regiment of U. S. infantry. He however immediately put his forces in motion against them, although wholly in- competent, from deficiency in amount, to cope with the immense host of savages that surrounded him, and his little gallant force. He demanded a sur- render of the murderers of American citizens. No answer was given but savage defiance. No com- punctions were manifested for the. iimocent blood that stained them. Gen. Gaines, aware that patient gulferance of injuries from savages, for ever in- creases their ferocity, proccetied against them — crossed the Flint river — dispersed them — destroyed FowUo7V7iy and returned to Fort Scott. A numerous horde of desperate warriors, red and black, sur- rounded the fort, and entirely cut off the commu- nication of the American forces. Appearances in- dicated a repetition of the tragical scenes of Fort Mimms, in Mississippi. The signal vengeance in- flicted upon the Creeks, by Gen Jackson, and his invincible army, probably occasioned the Serai- noles to pause, before they " cast their lives vpon a die:' General Gaines had called upon the executive of ANDREW JACKSON. 307 Georgia, whose state was more immediately endan- gered tiian any other, for immediate succour. The miserable system of temporary drafting, had been adopted ; and before the troops could be brought to act efficiently, their term of service expired, and the small regular force was the only reliance the frontier settlers had, as a protection from devasta- tion and massacre. A boat with 40 passengers was taken upon Flint river, and every soul on board slain. Universal consternation prevailed ; and Gen. Gaines once more called upon the Georgia forces, 2000 of whom were detailed, and rendezvoused at Hartford, Geo. Gen. Jackson, as commander in chief, was again called upon, from a sense of duty, to take the field. Again were the *' Tennessee Volunteers," by their beloved and almost adored general, exhorted to resume the armour of war, in the following ad- dress : *' Volunteers of West Tennessee J — Once more, af- ter a repose of three years, you are summoned to the field. Your country, having again need for your services, has appealed to your patriotism, and you have met it promptly. The cheerfulness with which you have appeared to encounter the hardships and perils of a winter's campaign, affords the highest evidence of what may be expected of you, in the hour of conflict and trial. 308 MEMOIRS OF The savages on your borders, unwilling to be at peace, have once more raised the tomahawk to shed the blood of our citizens, and already (hey are assembled in considerable force, to carry their mur- derous scliemes into execution. Not contented with the liberal policy that has from time to time been shewn them, but yielding themselves victims to foreign seducers, they vainly think to assail and conquer the country that protects them. Stupid mortals ! They have forgotten too soon the streams of blood their ill fated policy heretofore cost them. They have forgotten too, that but a short time since, conquered, and almost destroyed, they were only preserved by the mildness and humanity of that country, which they now oppose. They must now be taught, that however benevolent and hu- mane that country is, she yet has sacred rights to protect, and with impunity, will not permit the butchery of her peaceable and unoilending citizens. Brave Volunteers ! — The enemy you are going to contend with, you have heretofore met and fought. You have once done it, and can again conquer them. You go not to fight, but to be victorious ; remember then, that the w ay to prove successful, is not by being inattentive to the first duties of a sol* dier, but by bearing and executing with cheerful- ness, the orders of superiors, and being constantly mindful of the obligations you are under to your country and to yourself. Subordination and atten» ANDREW JACKSON, 309 ticn to discipline, are all-important and indispensa- ble ; without them, nothing like system can be pre- served, and this being wanted, nothing favourable can result. But in you, every confidence is repos- ed. Your general will not believe that brave men, who have so promptly come forth at the call of their country, will withhold their assent to regula- tions which can alone assure them safety and suc- cess. Hardships and dangers are incident to war; but brave men will bear them without murmuring or complaining. Knowing you to be such, no fears are entertained but that every duty imposed on you, will be met with promptness and cheerfulness. Your general goes before you to open the way, and prepare for your reception. Confiding in your diligence and exertions, he will expect your arrival at your destined point, without unnecessary delay —led by Col. Arthur P. Haynes, an officer in whom he has every confidence. This being eifected, he will place himself at your head, and with you share the dangers and hardships of the campaign." The proud title and unfading laurels which these gallant sons of the Republic had acquired, would not suffer them to remain unmoved at an address from a chieftain, under whom they had acquired them. With a promptness that had ever signalized them, they repaired to their rendezvous, and, un- der the command of Col Arthur P. Haynes, so of- 310 MEMOIRS OF ten mentioned before, repaired to the point of des- tination, at Fort Scott. Gen. Jackson, in January, 1818, had repaired to Georgia, and had placed himself at the head of the Georgia militia. Situated in a country which af- fords but few materials for the subsistence of an ar- my, he actually commenced a march of ten days through a wilderness, with only a pint of corn to each man per day ! He w as also conscious, that a supply could not be relied upon at Fort Scott. But he knew the importance of celerity in the movement of an army, and the brilliancy of his achievements had hitherto depended much upon if. At Fort Scott, he formed a juction with the regular for- ces; and upon the arrival of the Tennessee volun- teers, was prepared to make a sudden termination of the Seminole war. This tribe had not a solitary claim to compassion, excepting what arises from the consideration, that they were willing victims to Spanish and British machinations. Even their principal chief, Pepiti- coxy, when asked the reason of his hostility against the American Republic, replied, — '* The government mere alnays ready to do him justice, and to make peace with him ; but that war was a fine manly exer- cise, in which he wished to practice his young men I /" Their " foreign seducers," were ever ready to make thpm victims to their own infatuation. The same €oL Nicoll, of proclamation memory, and the same ANDREW JACKSON. 311 Capt, Woodbine^ of no memory, but that of infamy, were found to be skulkinij among the Seminoles, as they sneaked from Pensacola in the last war, after having exposed the feeble and impotent Manrequez, to the just vengeance of a magnanimous but insult- ed government. By the first week in March, 1818, the measures of Gen. Jackson were determined upon ; and when fix- ed, Indian hostility, Spanish intrigue, and British perfidy, might as well divorce the sun from the ecliptfc, as to divert him from their accomplish- ment. He had been compelled, in avenging the injuries of his country, to make the brave, infatua- ted, and misguided Creeks bleed at every pore. Al- though the Seminoles had less claim to compassion, yet this great commander was aware that they were also misled ; but upon them, as open aggressors, his power was/r5^ to operate, and theuy upon their mis- leaders. He was determined to strike at the root of the evil ; and, if possible, to remove it. Minute details might be entered into, and they might gratify minute curiosity; but it is sufficient to say, that Gen. Jackson marched, with his forces, through a country, in which the savages had every advantage, from their acquaintance with it, and from its better adaption to savage, than to civilized warfare. Like the powerful representative of a great people, he determined to punish the guilty, wherev- er found, and to spare the innocent, where innocence 312 BIEMOIRS OF was evinced. He passed through that part of the American territory occupied by the Seminoles; and they either fell, or retired before him and his gallant followers. He reached the borders of Florida upon the 10th March. Knowing that geographical boun- daries were not the boundaries of right and wrong, and determining to penetrate the darkest recesses of guilt, and punish its instigators, he entered the Spanish province of Florida with his forces. Many of the countrymen of Gen. Jackson, have ])estowed a liberal portion of censure upon him, for entering the territory of a power, with an army, with whom the Republic was at peace. While it is admitted, that Spain was ostensibly at peace with Americans, it must not be denied that the Spanish authorities in Florida were palpably violating the treaty, by omitting to restrain the savages in their territory from acts of hostility against them, and by encouraging the savages in committing them. Should it be said that they were unable to restrain them, from their own weakness, and from the supe- riority of the savages, it may be answered — every nation must perform their own treaty stipulations, or sulfer the consequences of a violation. Is not the plea of weakness a fallacy, as it regards the Span- ish treaty with America ? Is it to be said that one of the *' Allied Sovereigns" of Europe cannot re- strain a single tribe of Indians from breaking his treaties ? A tenth part of the forces he has, for ANDREW JA.CKSON. 313 years, maintained in South- America, vainly endea- vouring to enslave the Patriots, and subject them to Spanish tyranny, the torture, and the Inquisition, might easily have restrained the Seminole Indians from depredations and murders, in the American settlements. Gen. Jackson had under his command, and, of course, under his military protection, all that por- tion of the Republic which bounds upon the exten- sive province of Florida. He held himself, in a de- gree, accountable for every inch of territory, that was invaded, and every limb and life that was lost by the enemies of his country. He felt his ability to defend his extensive Division ; he knew it to be his duty ; and was conscious that his country ex- pected it from him. He saw his countrymen mur- dered upon the frontiers, and the murderers protect- ed by a government which was solemnly pledged to restrain the savages, who had committed them, from evenj act of hostility. It would have been but a pastime for these blood-seeking, desperate Seminoles, to have saturated themselves with the blood of American women and children, and merely to be driven to their homes in the forests of Florida, only to prepare to glut their vengeance by repeated feasts of innocent blood. Are the swamps and ravines of Florida, like the horns of ancient altars, a protection for murderers ? Ask the parents of slain innocents, 'vhether ^Azs is the protection their government i^ Cc 314 MfixMOIRS OF pledged to extend to them. No matter what might have been the instructions of the government to Gen. Jackson — no matter what may be the opinion of the fastidious civilian upon abstract questions of inter- national law. The Spanish government had palpa^ bly violated their treaty with America; and if thir- teen years more of negociation were to be spent, the Alabama territory, the frontiers of Georgia, Tennes- see, and Mississippi, will have presented a wide spread scene of desolation, in which the bones of American citizens would be found mingled with the ruins of their habitations, and the devastations of the country. Gen. Jackson, like an an ancient patriot, described by an ancient historian, is " a man — a high-minded ?nan, nho knows his dutij, and knoning^ dares perform it" He might have said, as his great and exalted friend. President Monroe did, when he entered the highest station filled by an human being— •" from A JUST responsibility I SHALL NEVER SHRINK." He led his army into Florida. The confidence of the wretched Seminoles was converted to despair, and they fled in consternation before the avenger of their inhuman murders. He penetrated into the interior of Florida, and captured Fort St. Marks, the dark scene of Spanish and British machinations, and the primwn mobile of Indian carnage and mas- sacre. The Spanish authorities protested against it, but conscious guilt unnerved their arms, and they dared not defend it by force. -ANDREW JACKSON. 316 CHAPTER XXI. Gen. Jackson at Fort St. Marks, Florida — captures and executes Francis the Prophet, and an Indian Chief— at the same phce, takes Arbuthnotand Arabrister — details a general court-martial for their trial — Trial of Arbuthnot and Ambrister — Remark — Gen Jackson marches for Pensacola — captures it — appoints Col. King to the command of it, and retires to Nashville, Tenn. Gen. Jackson was now, (April, 1818,) in posses- sion of the most important post in Florida, (if Pensacola be excepted,) — Fort St, Marks. It is situated far in the interior of that province, upon the river St, Marks : has long been the theatre of the most nefarious designs, and the starting point from which marauders, depredators, and murderers have taken their departure— certain of being wel- comed home, when plunder and scalps were brought with them. From this place, Gen. Jackson direct- ed his operations against the Seminoles, yet unsub- dued. An important town of theirs, by the name of Suwanny, thirty miles distant, was taken by a detachment of the array. The savages dispersed or surrendered, in every part of the country, and the war of defence against the Seminoles, was sud- denly brought to a close. By hoisting a British (^ag upon the fort, many hos- tile Indians entered the water craft in the river, and 316 MEMOIES OP were captured. Among them were a ferocious chief, and the Prophet Francis, whose murders, commit- ted and instigated, cannot all be mentioned. They suffered the reward of their diabolical wickedness upon the gallows. The rest of the savages were discharged. Francis had recently visited England ; and there was found in his possession, a general's commission in the British army. At the same place were taken the two British subjects before mentioned — Arbuthnot and Ambris- ten. The most conclusive evidence was furnished Gen. Jackson, that these men were, and for a long time had been, in open hostility against the Re- public. That they had furnished the Seminoles and negroes, with every species of deadly weapons, the better to enable them to carry on war against the Americans. That they had stimulated them to the commission of many of the murders that had been perpetrated by them, upon the defenceless citizens upon the frontiers ; and that they had ren- dered themselves subject to the most rigorous exe- cution of vengeance against them, as violators of the acknowledged principles of the law of nations. Gen. Jackson, imitating the dignified moderation of the government whose power he represented, detained them for trials to give them an opportuni- ty to evince their innocence. A general court- martial was detailed, of thirteen members. The President of this court was Maj. Gen. Edmund P. ANDREW JACKSON. 317 GcdneSi one of the most distinguished and accom- plished ofHcers in the American, or any other ser- vice. The members consisted of officers of high reputation in the regular army and in the corps of volunteers. Every indulgence, consistent with the dignity of the proceeding, was extended to the ar- rested men ; and every opportunity aflbrded them to make a full defence. After the most solemn deliberation, the court found them guilty of the articles and specifications exhibited against them, and ordered them to be executed. Gen, Jackson approved of the sentence ; and Arbuthnot and Am- brister atoned with their lives, so far as two guilty lives could atone, for the murder of many innocent and worthy men— many lovely and helpless wo- men — many weeping and beseeching children, which had been instigated by them, and perpetrated by the most ferocious clan of infuriated desperadoes that infest the earth. =^ These trials, these condemnations, and these ex- ecutions, have excited unmeaning clamour from some, and perhaps, as unmeaning applause from others. The wise advice, " first hear, and then judge," seems to have been totally disregarded up- on this subject. But that every reader may have * To shew tlic unparalleled barbarism of the Seminole clan, it need only be mentioned, that in June, 1818, Bull Head, Chief of the lower Seminoies, died ; and that, four of his finest plundered horses, aad his favourite negro, were burned on the occasion, v^ C ^ 318 MEMoiiis or an oppoiluMily of jndi;ing from proper authority, the trial of these ill-fated men is introduced into these xMemoirs.^ TRIAL OF ARBUTHNOT AND AMBRISTER, AS TRANSMITTED BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES. Minutes of the proceedings of a special court, organized agreeably to the following order, viz. Adjutant General's Office, Fort St. Mark's, > 26th April, 1818. ] Head Quarters ^ Division of the Soidh. GENERAL ORDER. The following detail will compose a special court, to convene at this post at the hour of 1*2 o'clock, M. for the purpose of investigating the charf^es exhibited against A Arbuthnot, Robert Christy Ambrister, and such others, who are similarly situated, as may be brought before it. The court will record all the documents and testi- mony in the several cases, and their opinion as lo the guilt or innocence of the prisoners, and what punish- ment, (if any) should be inflicted. DETIAL. Major General E. P. Gaines, President. Col King, 4th infantry, Col. Williams, Ten. vol. Col. Dyer, Ten. vol. * The trial of Arbuthnot and Ambrister, is here given, as laid before the Congress of the Uaiteil States, except a few letters of minor consequence, which were adduced in evidence ; and from these every thing of ioiportance is extracte'I, so that the spirit of the T»hole is retained. ANDREW JACKSON. ,SIO Lt. Col, Lindsay, Cor. Ar. Lt Col. Elliot, Ten, vol. lit. Col Gibson, Ten. vol. Maj. Muhlenberg, 4th inf. Maj Montgomery, 7th inf. Maj. Fanning, Cor. Ar. Maj. Minton, Geo. Mili. Capt. Vashon, 7tb inf. Capt Crittenden, K'y vol. Members. Lt. J. M. Glassel, 7th infantry, Recorder. An orderly will be detailed from Gen. Gaines' bri- gade, and the court will sit without regard to hours. By order of Major General Jackson, ROBERT BUTLER, Adj. Gen. Fort St Marks, 26th ^pril, 1818. The court convened pursuant to the foregoing order, wJien, being duly sworn, in the presence of the prisoner, and he being asked if he had any objections to any mem- ber tiiereof, and rpplying in the negative, the following charges and specilications were read, viz. Charges vs. A. Mrbuthnot, now in custody.^ and who says he is a British subject : Charge 1st — Exciting and stirring up the Creek In- dians to war against the United States, and her citizens, he (A. Arbuthnot) being a subject of Great Britain, with whom the United States are at peace. Specification — That the said A. Arbuthnot, between the months of April and July, or sometime in June, 1817, wrote a letter to the Little Prince, exhorting and advising him not to comply with the treaty effort Jackson, stating that the citizens of the United States were infringing on the treaty of Ghent, and, as he be- lieved, without the knowledge of the chief magistrate of the United States ; and advising the Upper and Lower Creeks to unite aad be friendly, stating that 320 MEMOIRS or William Hambly was the cause of their disputes ; als» advising the Little Prince to write to the governor ot New Providence, who would write to his royal highness the prince regent, through whom the United States would be called to a compliance with the treaty of Ghent, and advising them not to give up their lands, under the treaty of fort Jackson, for that the American citizens would be compelled to give up to them all their lands, under the treaty of Ghent. Charge 2d — Acting as a spy, and aiding, abetting and comforting the enemy, supplying them with the means of war. Specification 1st — In writing a letter from the fort of St. Marks, dated 2d April, 1818, to his son John, at Suwany, (marked A.) detailing the advance of the army under Gen. Jackson, stating their force, probable movements, and intentions, to be communicated to Bowlegs, the chief of the Suwany towns, for his gov- ernment. Specification '2d — In writing the letters marked B, without date, and C, with enclosures, 27th Jan. 1818, and D, called " a note of Indian talks," and E, with- out date, applying to the British government, through governor Cameron, for munitions of war, and assistance for our enemies ; making false representations ; and also applying to Mr. Bagot, British Ambassador, for his Interference, with a statement, on the back of one of the letters of munitions of war for the enemy. Charge 3d — Exciting the Indians to murder and de- stroy William Hambly, and Edmund Doyle, and caus- ing their arrest, with a view to their condemnation to death, and the seizure of their property, on account of their active and zealous exertions to maintain peace between Spain, the United States and the fodians, they being citizens of the Spanish, government. Specification Is/-— In writing the letters marked F, dated t>6th August, 18 J 7, G, dated 13th May. 18 1 7, and H, threatening them with death; alleging against ANDREW JACKSON. 321 tbem false and infamous charges, and using every means in his power to procure their arrest. All which writings and sayings excited, and had a tendency to excite, the negroes and Indians to acts of hostility against the United States. By order of the court, J. M. GLASSEL, Recorder. To which charges and specifications the prisoner pleaded A^ot Guilty. The prisoner having made application for counsel, it was granted him ; when the court proceeded to the ex- amination of the evidence. John Winslett, a witness on the part of the prosecu- tion, biding duly sworn, stated, that, som*? time before last July, the Little Prince received a letter signed by a Mr. Arbuthnot, advising the upper part of the nation to unite With the lower chiefs in amity ; and stating, the best mode for them to repossess themselves of their lands, would be to write to him (Arbuthnot) and he would send their complaints to the governor of Provi- dence, whence it would be forwarded to his Britannic majesty, and he would have the terms of the treaty of Ghent attended to. He moreover stated his belief, that the encroachments on the Indian lands were un- known to the president of the United States. The wit- ness also identified the signature of the prisoner in a let- ter to his son marked A, and referred to in the first spe- cification, in the second charge, and heretefore noted, as the same with that sent to the Little Prince. The witness on belog further interrogated, stated the language of the letter alluded to, to be, that the British government on application would cause to be re- stored to them their lands they held in 181 1, agreeably to the terms of the treaty of Ghent. Question by the prisoner. — Who is the Little Prince, or is he known by any other name ? OZZ MEMOIRS OF *^ns. He is known by the name of Tustenukke Hop- in, and is the second chief of the nation. Question by the prisoner. — Where is the letter you al- lude to, or in whose possession ? Ans. It was left in the possession of the Little Prince when I last sfiw it. Question by the prisoner. — Has this Little Prince no other name than what you state ? Ans. Not that I know of. Question f>y the prisoner. — Do you swear that the let- ter alluded to was addressed to the Little Prince ? Ans. I do not. It was presented to me by the Little Prince to read and interpret for him, which I did. Question by the prisoner. — Are you certain that the letter stated that the chief magistrate of the United States could have no knowledge of settlements made on Indian lands or injuries committed ? Ans. The letter stated that to be the belief of the writer. John Lewis Phenix, a witness on the part of the prosecution, being duly sworn, stated with regard to the Ist specification of the 2d charge, that being at Suwa- ny in the town about the 6th or 7th of April, he was awakened in the morning by Mr. Ambrister's receiving, by the hands of a negro, who got it from an Indian, a letter from St. Mark's, at that time stated by Ambris- ter to be from the prisoner. Question by the prisoner. — Did you see that letter or hear it read ? Ans. I did see the paper, but did not hear it read. Question by the prisoner. — Did you state that the let- ter was received by an Indian express ? Ans, So the black man that delivered It said. A question being raised by a member of the court as to the jurisdiction on the third chargp and its specifica- tion, the doors were closed, and, after mature delibera- ANDREW JACKSON. 323 tion, they decided that this court are incompetent to take cognizance of the offences alleged in that charge and specification. Peter B. Cook, a former clerk to the prisoner, and a witness on the part of the prosecution, being duly sworn, stated that about December or January last, the pris- oner had a large quantity of powder and lead brought to Suwany in his vessel, which he sold to the Indians and negroes, that, subsequent to that time, when he cannot recollect, Ambrister brought for the prisoner in his (the prisoner's) vessel, nine kegs of powder and 'a large quantity of lead, which was taken possession of by the negroes. The witness also identified to the follow- ing letters, referred to in the foregoing charges and spe- cifications, marked A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H, as being the prisoner's hand writing ; also the power of attorney No. 1, granted by the Indians to A. Arbuth- not. A. From A. Jlrhuihnoi to his son, John Arhulknot, dated Fort St. Marks J 2ll3, that the Auiericaus were to give up all our lands they had taken from us. Colonel Nirhidls left Mi. flambly in charge of the fort at Prospect Bluff; with orders to hear us, if any cause of complaint, and present the same to the British government ; but he turned traitor, and brought the Americans down on the fori, which was blown up, and many of our red breth- ren destroyed in it. VVe are therefore deputed to de- mand of your fxceliency the assihtatice of troops and ammunition, that w<^ may be able ptiectually to repel the attack of the Americans, and prevent their further encroachments ; and if we return without assistance, the Americans, who have their spi^s among us, will the more quickly come upon us. We most hunibly pray your excellency will send us mich a force as will be re- spected, and make us resppctable. [The following endorsed on the foregoing.] Charles Cameron, Esquire, Governor, Commander in in Chiefs puties from the Chiefs, and as my trouble and ex- oent-e can only be defrayed by permission to take goods to ilispose of amongst them, I pray your excellency will be jdeased to grant me sue!) a letter (»r license, as will prevent me from being capiured in case of meeting any Spanish cruizer on the coast of Florida. The court adjourned to meet to-morrow morning at (3 o'clock. Fort St. Marks, iSth April, 1818. The court convened pursuant to adjournment. — Pre- sent Major- General E. P. Gaii>es, president. Members. Colonel King, Colonel Dyer, 336 MEMOIRS OF Colonel Williams, Lt. Col. Lindsey, Lt. Col Gibson, Lt. Col. Elliott, Major Muhlenberg, Major Fanning, M^jor Montj^omejy, Majvir IMinton, Captain Vashon, Captain Crittenden. Lt. J. M Glassell, Recorder. When the further examination of the witness, Peter B. Cook, took place, viz. : Question by the prisoner. — How lonjr have you been acquainted with the settlements on the Sahwahnee ? Jins . Between six and seven months. (^nes. by the P For what term of years did you en- gage to live with the prisoner ? Jliis. For no stated period — I was taken by the year. Ques. btf the P Were you not discharged by the pri- soner from his employ ? Jins. He told me he had no further use for me after I had written the letters to Proviilence, Qm€S. VYhere did you stay after you were discharged t Jins \ staid in a small house belonijing to a boy call- ed ""t Juhu, under the protection of Nero. Q?(es. Whwt was the subject matter of the letters you wrote to Providence ? Jins After being refused by the prisoner a small ven- ture to Providence, I wrote my friends for the means to trade by myself Qwes by the P Do you believe the prisoner had know- ledge of the venturr*'s beinj: on board the schooner ''' Jins. \ don't believe he did. It was small and in my trunk. Q /es by the P. Do you know that Ambrister was the agent of the [irisoner ? Jitis I do not. Ques. Do you think that the powder and the lead shippeti would more than supply the Indian and negro hunters ? ^'ins, I did nut see the powder and lead myself, but ANDilEW JACKSO.V. 33? was told by Bowlegs that he had a great quantity he had there keeping' to fight with. Q,ues. Did the Indians reside on the «ast side of the river ? Ms. They did. Q,ues. You were asked if the negroes and Indians, when the letter marked A, was communicated, did not take up arms ? Had they received information of the defeat of the Indians at Mickasuky prior to that time ? jins. It was afterwards, I believe, they received the information Q,ues. Did not Bowlegs keep other powder than that got from the prisoner .'' jins He had some he got from the Bluff, which was nearly done : he said his hunteis were always bothering him about powder. Ques. Did you state that at the time Ambrister as-» cended the river, there was no other vessel at the mouth of tlie river ? Jins. There was none other there : there was one had sailed. Qi^es. There is a letter A spoken of: how do you know that the son of the prisoner had that letter in his possession ? Ans 1 saw him with it, whicli he dropped, and a boy called John, picked up and gave it to me. 0«e5 You stated that the Indians and negroes doubt- ed the fidelity of the prisoner in sending letters to the Prince Regent : do you think the prisoner would have been punished by them, iiad he not complied with their wishes ? Jins. I do not know. Qwes. Do you believe the prisoner was compelled t© write the Indian communications ? Jins. He was not compelled. Ee 338 WEMOIPvS OF Continuation of the minutes of the proceedings of a special court, whereof major-general Gaines is president, con- vened by order of the '26th of ^pril, 1818. Fort St. Marks, 27th April, 1818. The court proceeded to the trial of Robert G. Am- brister, a British subject, who, beins: asked if he had any objections to any one of the riiembers of the court, and replying in the negative, was arraigned on the fol- lowing charges and specifications, viz. Charges against Robert C. Jlmbrister^ now in custody, who says he i.s a British subject. Charge 1st. Aiding, abetting, and comforting the enemy, supplying thfm with tiie means of war, ht- being a subject of Great- Britain, at peace with the United States, and lately an ufficer in the British colonial ma- rines. Specification 1st. That the said Robert C An)brister did jjive intelligence of the movements and operations of the Anicrican army between the 1st and ^Oth of March, 1818, and did excite them (the ne^^roes and In- dians) to war against the army of the United States, by sending their warriors to meet and fight the American army — whose government was at peace and friendship with the United States and all her citizens. Charge 2c/. Leading and commanding the Lower Creeks in carrying on a war against the United States. Specification Is/. That the said Robert C, Ambris- ter, a subject of Great-Britain, which government was in peace and amity with the United Stales and all her citizens, did, between the first of February and twenti- eth uf [March, 1818, levy war against the U^nited Slates, by assuming command of the Indians in hostility and open war with {he United States, and ordering a pavty of them to meet the army of the United States and give them battle, as will appear by his letters to governor ANDREW JACKSON. 339 Cameron of New-Providence, dated 20th March, 1818, which are marked A, B, C, and D, and the testimony of Mr. Peter B. Couk and capt. Lewis, of the schooner Chance. By order of the court. J. M. GLASSELL, Recorder. To which charges and specifications, pleaded as fol- lows, viz, : To the first charge and specification— JVbi guillij. To the second charge and specification — GuiUy and justification. The court adjourned to meet to-morrow morning at 7 o'clock. Fort St MarkSy ^UhJlpril, 1818. The court met pursuant to adjournment. Present, Major-General Gaines, President. Members. Colonel King, Colonel Dyer, Colonel WiUiams, Lt. Col. Liodsey, Li. Col. Gibson, Lt. Col Elliott, Major Muhlenberg, Major Fanning, Major Montgomery, Major Mi n ton, Captain Vash.on, Captain Crittenden. Lieut. J. M.Glassell, Kecorder. The recorder then read to the court the following or- der, viz. : Head (Quarters, Division of the South, Adj. Gen^s. Office ^ St. Marks, 28/4 .^pn/, 1818. GENERAL ORDER. Capt. Allison, of the 7th infantry, is detailed to form a supernumerary member of the special court now sit- ting at fori 8t. Marks. By order. ROBERT BUTLER, Adj. Gen. 3-10 MEMOIRS OF Pursuant to the above order, the supernumerary member took his seat. John Lewis Phenix, a witness on the part of the pro- secution, being duly sworn, stated, that, about the 5th or 6ih of April, 1818, his vessel and himself having been captured by the prisoner, and he brought to Suwany as a prisoner, there was an alarm among the negroes and Indians, created by learning some news from Mick- asuky, at which time the prisoner appeared active in sending orders, and sending a detachment to meet the American army. The witness also stated, that the pris- oner appeared to be a person vested with authority among the negro leaders, and gave orders for their pre- paration for war, providing amtnunition, &c. And that the leaders came to him for ordtrs. The prisoner fur- nished tiiem with powder and lead, and recommended to them tlie making of ball, &c. very quickly. The witness also stated that the prisoner occasionally dres- sed in uniform, with !iis sword ; and that, on the first alarm, which he understood was from Mickasuky, by a negro woman, he put on the uniform. The witness further stated, that some time about the 20th March, 1818, the prisoner, with an armed body of negroes, {24 in number,) came on board his vessel, and ordered him to pilot them to fort St, Marks, which, he stated, he intended to capture before the Americans could get there — threatening to hang the witness if he did not obey. .Qucs. by ike court — Did you ever understand by whose authority, and for what purpose the accused came into the country ? Jim. I have frequently heard him say, he came to attend to Mr. Woodbine's business at the bay of Tam- per. Qwc5. hij the prisoner — Did I not tell you, when I came on board the schooner Chance, I wished you to pilot nje to St- Marks^ as I was inforQied thei two ANDREW JACKSON. 341 Americans, by the names of Hambly and Doyle, were confined there, and I wished to have them relieved from their confinement ? Ans. You stated you wanted to get Hambly and Doyle from St. Marks. I do not know what were your intentions in so doing. Qwes. Did I not tell you that I expected the Indians would fire upon me when arriving at St. Marks ? ^^ns. You did not : you stated that you intended to take the fort in the night by surprise. (lues. Did you see me give ammunition to the ne- groes and Indians ; and, if so, how much, and at what time ? Ans. I saw you give powder and lead to the negroes when you came on board, and advised them to make balls ; and I saw you give liquor and paint to the In- dians Qiies. Have you not often heard me say, between the 1st and 20th of April, that I would not have any thing to do with the negroes and Indians in exciting them to war with the United States ? ^ins. About the 15th of April, I heard you say you would not have any thing to do with the negroes and Indians : I heard notliing about exciting them to war. Q^ues Can you read writing .? ^713. Not English writing. (lues. Did you not hear me say, when arriving at Suwany, that I wished to be off immediately for- Prov- idence .'* Ans. I did not : after the alarm, you said you wish- ed to be off for Tamper. Ques. Did you not say to the accused you wished to visit Mr. Arbuthnot, at his store on Suwany, and get provisions yourself .' /his. I id not : I stated I wanted provisions. Qwes. Did I send or command any Indians to go and light tne Americans ? A71S. I did not exactly know that you sent them * Ee2 'o' 342 MEMOIRS OF the [ndians and nej^roes were crowding before youi' door, and yo:j were dividiu^ tho paiiit, Si,c. among the.n ; and J u-id'-rstood a party was j^oin^ to march, Q/(c'6\ Oi I I f)'ti give up the schooner to you in chargf;, as captain ? ins. After onr return from Suwany town, you di- rected me to take cliarge of her to go to Tamper. John I. Arbuthnot, a witness on the part of tlie prosecution, being duly sworn, stated tirat some time about the 23il of March, the prisoner came with a body of negroes, partly armed, to his father's store on Su- wany river, ami told the witness he had come to do justice to the country, by taking the good« and distri- buting them among the ne^^roes and Indians-— whicli the witness saw the prisoner do : and that the prisoner slated to him, that he had come to the country on Woodbine's business, to see the neoroes righted. The witness has further known the prisoner to give orders to the negroes, and that, at his su^i^gestion, a party was sent from Suwany to meet the Americans, to give them battle — which party returned on meeting the Mickasuky Indians in their flight. The witness also testified to the following letter, marked A, and referred to in the specification of the second charge, as the vvri- iing; of t.he prisoner. A. Mohert. C. Atnhrister io Governor Cameron, Sahwahiiee near St. Marks Forty March 20th, 1818. Sir — I am requested particularly by all our Indian, v^hiefs, to acquaint your excellency, that the Americans- have commenced hostilities with them two years ago, and have advanced some considerable distance in tiiis country, and are iiow making daily progress. They iay t!>ey sent a number of letters to your excellency,. ANDKEW JACKSON. 343^ but have never received one answer, which makes them believe that he never delivered them ; and will obli'^-e them much if you will let me know whether he did or not. The purport of the letters were, befi;f>in. Robert Christy Ambrister, j Who, being arraigned before a special court martial, upon the following charges, to wit : 348 MEMOIRS OF 1. AiiVing:, abetting, and comforting [the Indians ;] supplying them with the means of war, he bein«j a subject of Great Britain, at peace witi) the United States, and lately an officer in the British colonial ma- rines. Charge 2d. Leading and commanding the lower Creek Indians in carrying on war against the United States. To the first charge the prisoner al the bar pleads not guilty, and, as to the second charge, he pifads guilty, and justification The prisoner at the bar feels grateful to this honourable court for their goodness in giving him a sufficient time to deliberate, and arrange his defence on the above charges. The prisoner al the bar here avails himself of the opportunity of stating to this court, that inasmuch as the testimony which was introducer! in this case, was very explicit, and went to every point the prisoner could wish, he has nothing further to offer in his de- fence, but puts hims^'ir upon the mercy of the honour- able court. ROBERT C. AMBRISTER. Head-Quarters, Division of the South. Adjutant- GeneraPs Office, Camp 4 miles north of St. JWarAs, ^pril ^9th, 1818. GENERAL ORDER. At a special court martial, commenced on the 26th ' instant at St. Marks, and continued until the night of the 'i?8th, of which brevet Major- General E. P. Gaines is President, was tried A. Arbuthnot, on the following charges and specifi'^ations, viz : Charge 1st Exciting and stirring up the Creek In- dians to war against the United States and her citizens, ,, he, A. Arbuthnot, bf^ing a subject of Great-Britain, 1 with whoij the United Slatps are at peace. Charge 2d. Acting as a spy ; aiding, abetting, and ANDREW JACKSON. 349 comforting the enemy, and supplying them with the means of war. Charge 3d. Exciting the Indians to murder and de- stroy William Hambly and EUmund Doyle, confiscate their property, and causing their arrest, with a view to their condemnation to death, and the seizure of their property, they being citizens of Spain, on account of their active and zealous exertions to maintain peace between Spain, the United States, and the Indians. To which charges the prisoner pleaded not guilty. The court, after mature deliberation on the evidence adduced, find the prisoner, A. Arbuthnot, guilty of the first charge, and guilty of the second charge, leaving out the words ^^ acting as a spy ;" and, after mature reflection, sentence him, A. Arbuthnot, to be suspended hy the neck, until he is dead. Was also tried, Robert C Ambrister, on the follow- ing charges, viz. Charge Ist. Aiding, abetting, and comforting the enemy, and supplying them with the means of war, he being a subject of Great-Britain, who are at peace with the United States, and late an officer in the British co- lonial marines, Cijarge 2d. Leading and commanding the lower Creek Indians in carrying on a war against the United States, T" which charges the prisoner pleaded as follows : to the 1st charge, not guihy ; to the 2d charge, guilty, and justification. The court, on examination of evidence, and on ma- ture deliberation, find the prisoner, Robert C. Ambris- ter, guilty of the 1st and 2d charges ; and do, there- fore, sentence him to suffer death, by being shot. The members requeuing a re-consideration of the vote on this sentence, a. id it being liad, they sentence the pris- oner to receive fifty stripes on his bare back, and be confined with a ball and chain, to hard labour, for twelve calendar mouths. Ff 350 JMEMOIRS OF The Commanding General approves the finding and sentence of the court in the case of A. Arbuthnot, and approves the finding and first sentence of the court in the case of Robert C. Ambrister, and disapproves the re-consideration of the sentence of the honourable court in this case. It appears, from the evidence and pleading of the prisoner, that he did lead and command within the ter- ritory of Spain, (being a subject of Great-Britain,) the Indians in war against the United States, those na- tions being at peace. It is an established principle of the laws of nations, that any individual of a nation making war against the citizens of any other nation, they being at peace, forfeits his allegiance, and be- comes an outlaw and pirate. This is the case of Robert C. Ambrister, cletirly shewn by the evidence adduced. The Commanding General orders that brevet Major A. C. VV. Fanning, of tlie corps of artillery, will have, between the hours of 8 and 9 o'cloc^k, A M. A Arbuth- not suspended^by the neck with a rope, until he is dead, and Robert C. Ambrister to be shot to death, agreeable to the sentence of the couit. John James Arbuthnot will be furnished with a pas- sage to Pensacola, by the first vessel. The hpecial court, oi which brevet Major-General E. P. Gaines is President, is dissolved. By order of Major-General Jackson. ROBERT BUTLER, Adjutant-General. Many British prints, and what excites rather ^)ity than indii^nation, many Amnrican prints, have bestowed upon the administration, and Gtw. Jack- son, the most opprobrious epithets, for their pro- ceedings in relation to the capture of St. Marks and Pensacola, and the execution of Arbuthnot and Ambrister ! The justice of heaven is often recog ANDREW JACKSON. 351 nized in bringing the solitanj murderer to justice; and although it is ever a solemn scene, human tri- bunals are justified in inflicting it. Is it because these miscreants occasioned blood to flow from hundrrds of bosoms, that they are to be screened from punishment ? They were murderers, in the strictest sense of the word. Britain and Spain, were both at peace with America; they therefore could not claim the rights of prisoners of war. They lived by the knife, the tomahawk, and the musket, and they justly expiated their crimes upon the gibbet. The Seminoles liad been conquered ; their pow- er broken ; their warriors dispersed ; and their in- stigators punished. At the very moment when Gen. Jackson was about to discharge his army, in- formation was received by him, that many recent murtlers had been '' committed on the Alabama, by a party of the enemy from Pensacola, where they were furnished with provisions and ammunition by a friendly power /"^ Governor Joseph Masot^ had succeeded Gonzalez Manrequez, in the gubernatorial authority of Flor- ida ; but although there was a change of men, there was no alttration in mtasures. The hostile savages were stili fostered, armed, and instigated to war, in the capital of Florida. Gen. Jackson, re- solved a£;ain to '' carry our arms where he found our * Vide Gen. Jackson's address to his army, 29th May, 1818. ^52 MEMOIRS OF enemies."* Encountering hardships and privations which he and the Tennessee Volunteers had for years encountered, they moved towards Pensacola. Conscious of having incurred the just vengeance of the American government and army, the governor remonHr cited against the procedure, in order to lay a foundation for a little more negociation with his *' adored master ;" but Gen. Jackson had no other power of negociating with Masot, than he had with Manrequez — ^^ from the mouths of his cannonJ'^-\ He entered Fensacola without opposition. The governor, his retinue, and his forces, retired to the fortress of Barancas^ which had been repaired, at jfimiensc Ci'pcn^e, since the explosion in the last war. It was here, that the American forces ex- pected the most determined opposition, from the superior advantages that the Spaniards possessed. But " he is doublij armUl ivho hath his quarrel just,'''' The garrison held out but one day, and surrendered upon the 28ih ?»Iay. The articles of capitulation are before the public, and are too long to be here inserted. .Upon the 29th May, G^n. Jackson commences his orders — " iJead-quarters^ Division of the South, 7V775rtv'?o/r(."— Speaking of the possession of this place, he says — " he has not been prompted to this measure from a wish to extend the territorial limits of the United States,"*^ Alluding, to the Spanish treaty, * Vide Chap, xii, f Vide Chap, xi. ANDREW JACKSON. 353 and the Spanish violation of it, he says—*' helpless women have been butchered, and the cradle stain- ed with the blood of innocence !" He assigned the command of Pensacoia to Col. King, *' as military and civil governor," and prepared to retire to his old head-quarters at Nashville. He arrived there late in June, and was received by a deputation of citizens, among whom was his gallant associate, Gen. Carroll. From that time to the present, (Nov. 1818,) Gen. Jackson has been assiduously engaged in the important duties devolved upon him, as " com- mander IN CHIEF OF THE DIVISION OF THE SOUTH." F(2 / :>ai. :viEM01RS o? CONCLUSION. Incidents of Gen. Jackson's life — his character. In concluding these Memoirs, I cannot omit to insert a few incidents of Gen. Jackson's life, which are not yet embraced in them» When sitting as judge of the supreme court of Tennessee, an atrocious culprit escaped from the custody of the sheriff; seized a loaded musket with a bayonet ; placed himself in the angle of two stone walls, and swore he would shoot the first, and bayonet tlie second man that attempted to take him. Tlie shcriii' ordered tgi men, as assist- ants, but they dared not approach him. The sheriff reported the fact to the judge. *' Summon 100 men, then," said judge Jackson. It was done ; but ihcy also feared to arrest him. Upon a second report—" Summon wf, then," said the judge. It was done. He descended from the bench — ap- proached the culprit with a stern countenance, and dignified Brmness — seized the musket with one hand, the culprit with the other, and handed him to the sheriff. In the most gloomy period of the Creek war, when Gen. Jackson's little army w^as in imminent ANDREW JACKSeN. 355 danger from the savages, and still more alarmed at the almost certain prospect of famine; when an aiarming despondency pervaded thf- hearts of those brave men, who wouKl face death in its most hor- rible forms, the general invited a number of his officers to breakfast with him- They repaired to his marquee, and found him sitting, with dignified composure, under a wide spreading oak, which had produced an a!)undant crop of acorns. " Sit down, gentlemen/' said the genera! : '' this is uy breakfast, and it is all I have to serve you with ; but a soldier never despairs. Heaven will bless our cause — will preserve us from famine, and return us home con- querors." The officers returned to their tents with increasing admiration of their general; ad- hered to him to the end of the war; and saw his predictions verified. The troops before New-Orleans embraced many of the first young gentlemen, in point of talents, education, family and fortune, in the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Mississippi : and among them were, of course, many of a rougher character. The pleasant raillery, which is the very zest of life^ when played oif by one gentle- man upon another, was unfortunatel}' practised up- on a captain of a company, who took it in high dudgeon. In imitation of the names of Indian chiefs, his men called him Capt. Fiat-Foot. He re- monstrated against it to Gen. Jackson, who plea* 356 MEMOIRS OF santly remarked — "Really, Captain, it is difficult getting along with those gay young fellows; but so long as they toil at the lines with such vigour, and fight the enemy with such courage, we ofticers must overlook a little innocent levity. Why, Captain, they call me Old Hickory ; and if you prefer my title to your's, I will readily make an exchange." The Captain retired, proud of the title of Capt. Flat' Foot. Pages might be filled in relating interesting anec* dotes, and incidents of Gen. Jackson, which would clearly show, that although austere dignity is his predominating characteristic, he still possesses the most amiable and benevolent heart. But the work is already extended much beyond the original de- sign of it. One subject, however, must not be omitted ; that of duelling. That Gen. Jackson has a number of times, entered the field of single com- bat^ is not disputed ; but that he ever entered it the aggressor, is most unequivocally denied. Tliat he has that susceptibility which is always a concom- itant with genius and greatness, is admitted ; but that he ever wantonly provoked an honourable man to resort to the sword or pistol for redress, is inad- missif)Ie. Gen. Jackson respects his fellow men, ac- cording to their merits; and he respects himself according to his own. He is never guilty of insult- ing with wantonness, and will never be insulted with impunity. ANDREW JACKSON. 357 If Gen. Jackson, in repelling and punishing llie rude attacks that have been made on his fame and his honour, has resorted to a mode of redress, not sanctioned by the laws of his country, it is a mode which legislatures have hitherto been unable to re- strain. In concluding these memoirs, I attempt with deep solicitude, briefly to pourtray the exalted character who is the subject of them. ANDREW JACKSON was born a great man- he was born free. The first dawning of his intellect elicited the independence of his spirit. As if his youthful blood instinctively glowed with indigna- tion, at the iijiserles his ancestors had SiiSjained from abused power, the first signal act of his life was performed in resisting it. Intuitively great, he ex° plored the regions of science with the rapidity of thought. Acute in observation, he studied men as he mingled with them. Aspiring in his views, he sought for a capaciou« field as the scene af his ex- ertions. He entered the stage of life entirely alone. With no extrinsic advantages to raise him into life, he sought no aid out of himself, and he received no aid but what he commanded by his own energy. A theoretical and practical statesman, he led the peo- ple of Tenness(;e, to the adoption of a constitution, to give permanency to their civil rights — \ soldier from boyhood, he led his fellow citizens to the frontiersj to preserve them from devastation, and 358 MEMOIRS Of the settlers from massacre. Unsatisfied with a mi- nor station, every step he gained in his ascent to the temple of fame, gave hira new vigour in ascending still. He became a senator of the American Re- public; and to shew the worhi that his greatness was not derived from his official elevation, he re- tired to the post of ** honour — a private station." When the olive of peace ceased to wave over the repul)lic, and the clarion of war assailed the ears of her citizens, his military character suddenly devel- oped itself. Enjoying the tranquil charms of do- mestic felicity, the soothing suggestions of inactivi- ty urged him to rest. But he was horn for his country — his country was endangered — its hopes were fixed upon him, and he eypoused its cause. Devoted to the cause of his country from princi- ple, he scarcely breathed, after subjugating a savage foe, before he Thundered defiance to the conquerors of the Old World. Upon the banks of the majes- tic Mississippi, he soared before his enemies, in sheets of fire — he rendered every defile a Thermo^ pi^'la, and every plain an Amaralhcn. He is deeply versed in the science of human na- ture — hence he is rarely deceived in the confidence he reposes in his friends, and knows well how to de- tect his enemies. The first he loves, and sets the last at defiance. In the discharge of official duties, he imparts dignity to the office, and secures respect ANDREW JACKSON. 359 to hiniself^ — in the circles of private life, he is affa- ble, without descending to low familiarity. In his person, he is above the ordinary height, elegantly formed, but of very spare habit. But, " toil has strung his nerves^ and purified his blood^^ and he can bear any fatigue within the power of human endurance. The features of his face have that striking peculiarity, which immediately at- tracts attention. His lare:e, dark blue eyes, are set- tled deep under prominent arching eyebrows, which he can clothe in frowns to repel an enemy, and dress in smiles to delight his friends— his whole person shows that he was born to command. In fine, he is loved by his friends — respected by his enemies— the favourite of his country, and the admiration of the world. f ■^ ^^A V '^^ c. ^-^^ 3fe .^^ >>, ..^^ ^^ ^,.. ..^^ '-^ H \ '■??^^>■ :^" .^ A, o "i- % #■ =r# ,.:^^ \ /f "'^ ^ '^r 'V,