lTif(iTi"natloTi foT- by 18 56 Glass ___^ Book__//^ INFORMATION KANZAS IMMIGRANTS: PREPARED BY ■,a- THOMAS H. WEBB, SECRETARY OF THE NEW ENGLAND EMIGRANT AID CO. SIXTH EDITION REVISED AND ENLARGED. BOSTON: PRINTED BY ALFRED MUDGE AND SON, No. 21 School Street. 18 56. ^^ ^^f y JDffice 0f ll]t lleto (gitglnni €imgnmt Jiii Campn2, ►" No. 3 Winter Street, HEAD OF THE SECOND FLIGHT OF STAIRS, ON THE LEFT. OFFICEHS, ELECTED JUNE 1st, 1855 PBESIDENT. JOHN CARTER BROWN, of Providence, E. I. VICE PRESIDENTS, ELI THAYER, of Worcester; J. M. S. WILLIAMS, of Qimbridge, Mass. TREASURER. AMOS A. LAWRENCE, of Boston. SECRETARY. THOMAS H. WEBB, of Boston. DIRECTORS. Wm. B. Spooner, of Boston ; Samuel Cabot, Jr., M. D., of Boston ; John Lowell, of Boston; Le Baron Russell, M. D., of Boston; Charles J. Higginson, of Boston; Wm. J. Rotch, of Neiv Bedford; J. P. Williston, of Northampton ; Wm. Dudley Pickman, of Salem; R. P. Waters, of Beverly ; R. A. Chapman, of Sprinr/fieM ; John Nesmith, of Jewell; Moses Davenpoi't, of Newburyport ; Charles H. Bigelow, of Lawrence ; Nathan Durfee, of Fall River ; Wm. Willis, of Portland, Me. ; "Franklin Muzzy, of Bangor, Me. ; John D. Lang, of Vnssal- boro\ Me. ; E. P. Walton, ofMontpelier, Vt. ; Jos. A. Gilmore, of Concord, N. H. ; Ichabod Goodwin, of Portsmouth, N. II. ; Thomas M. Edwards, of Keene, N. II. ; Albert Day, of Hartford, it. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. Messrs. J. M. S. Williams, Eli Thayer, John Lowell, S. Cabot, Jr., M. D., R. P. Waters, Le Baron Russell, M. D., and Charles J. Higginson. SECRETARY'S ADDRESS, THOMAS H. WEBB, M. D. Secretary New England Emigrant Aid Company, BOSTON, MASS fc^s- \M 2,(, Office of the N. E. Emigrant Aid Co. No. 3 Wifiter St., Boston, March 15, 1856 } In answer to the numerous inquiries respecting Kanzas, daily addressed to the Secretary both by letter and ill person, the following pamphlet has been prepared, which contains as concise and definite replies as can conveniently be furnished at short notice. It is scarce- ly necessary to say that no methodic arrangement has been attempted. I would premise that — The Company has not endeavored, neither does it now endeavor, to entice people to go to Kanzas, — it has not paid, neither does it intend to pay, in whole or in part, the expenses of transporting individuals to; or of supporting thefn after their aii^ival in, the Ter- ritory. Its course has been and still is, to use all the means in its power, to collect the best and most reliable infor- mation relative to the Territory, and furnish the same to those desiring it. Each individual having received, and duly weighed the information, must then decide for himself, whether or not it is advisable to immigrate. If the decision be to go, the Company will do all in its power to speed him on his destined way, and afford him such facilities in locating as it may from time to time be enabled to do. The principal advantages to be derived through the Company are, diminution in the rates of fare, — protection, as far as possible, from the imposition practised on the unwary by runners, speculators, and others, — advice, through agents in Kanzas, relative to selecting suitable sites for settle- ments, and (what we deem the paramount advantage,) the opportunity of forming communities at once, and thus, early enjoying, all the benefits resulting from association, instead of locating, as is usually the case, at wide-spread distances, and in consequence, genera- tions passing by, before any of the benefits and piivi- 6 INFORMATION AND ADVICE the bnggage is checked, must be sure to have it at- tended to, and to receive the duplicate or counter check from the Baggage Master. Change of Baggage. — Whenever, on the route, a change of baggage is to take place, each individual should, for the greater security, personally see that his own is carried with the rest to the railroad or boat, as the case may be. If mislaid, prompt notice shonld be given to the Agent having charge of the Party, that he may at once notify the Conductor, or other suitable Railroad or Steamboat Officer. Freight. — When freight is to be sent, the owner or his agent should obtain from the Transportation or Forwarding Agent at Boston, or at the other places of forwarding, a receipt in duplicate for its safe delivery at St. Louis. On the owners arrival at Sl^ Louis, if in advance of the freight, he should leave one of the re- ceipts with some forwarding house, that of Messrs. F. A. Hunt & C0.5 No. 19 Levee, is recommended, who will take charge of shipping it to Kanzas City, or Leav- enworth, for the usual commission. The owner should not pay freightage until the goods are delivered to him or his order, at the place designated. The packages, if to be sent by the Michigan Cen- tral Railroad route, should be [Owner's name here.] marked R. R. Kanzas City. Care of C. & M. R. R. Chicago. To the care of F. A. Hunt & Co., 19 Levee, St. Louis. If the Lake Shore Railroad be preferred, substitute in the square) the following, viz : Lake Shore Route. Time Contract. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 7 Packages, marked as above, can be forwarded from the Freight Depot of the Western Railroad, Lincohi Street. If forwarded from the Fitchburg Freight Depot, substitute in the square, N. for W., or prefix American to Lake Shore Route. \( the Ncio York cj* £Jrie Railroad is preferred, sub- stitute, in the square, N. Y. & E., for W. & C, and send the packages to the Providence Railroad Depot, Pleasant Street, near the foot of the Common. All articles not immediately wanted, had better, for economy's sake, be sent as freight. The charge per 100 lbs. from Boston to St. Louis, will be about $2.50 ; average time 18 days. Shipping Freight. — It will be still more economi- cal, and far better, where the quantity of freight is large, to ship it to New Orleans^ and thence send it by steamer to St. Louis. In this case, mark as before, with 7ianie and desttnation ; and in addition. Care of E. M. Daly & Co., New Orleans, to he forwarded to F. A. Hunt 6j' Co., No. 19 Levee, St. Louis. Such freight left with Messrs. Allen & Weltch, No. 129 State Street, Boston, will be duly shipped. Freight to New Orleans, 5 to 6 cents per cubic foot ; $2 to $3 per ton ; barrels, capable of holding 150 lbs., 25 to 30 cents each. Cost from New Orleans to St. Louis about 50 cents the 100 lbs. Time, usually 20 days to New Or- leans, and about the same thence to St. Louis. .Insur- ance the whole distance, 2J per cent. No Pledge Required. — The emigrants come under no written or verbal obligation or pledge to the Com- pany ; they leave here free agents, and it is hoped they will continue so to be. Still, knowing that the great object is to secure freedo^n for all, it is presumed that no one will be so dishonest as to avail of the advantages and privileges that may be secured through the Com- pany's means, and then war against its principles. If, however, Parties entertaining adverse sentiments, desire to be forwarded by the Company, it will be done cheerfully, under the full conviction that when they see 8 INFORMATION AND ADVICE the great benefits, and decided advantages resulting from free labor, a great majority of them will become worthy and efficient allies. The Company does expect, however, that all who go out binder its auspices will do so with the intention of becoming actual settlers. Neither is it necessary for an individual who purposes removing to Kanzas, to become a member of the Com- pany, in order to join one of its Parties. Unless such an one has ample means, instead of subscribing for Stock, let him husband his means, in order to make them as available as possible after he arrives at his new abode. What to take, and where to buy. — Most articles not owned, had better not be purchased prior to reach- ing St. Louis or Kanzas City. Good clothing, suited for service, not show, such as is adapted for this section of the Country, also bedding, (not beds, on account of their bulk,) and perhaps some choice articles of furni- ture, had better be sent along ; but most of the necessa- ries for house-keeping, also agricultural implements, &c., can be obtained on reasonable terms at the places a^bove designated. Indeed, all ordinary articles of house-keep- ing, husbandry, &c.. may be now obtained in Lawrence, Leavenworth, and probably some other settlements within the Territory, on as reasonable terms as else- where. — Mechanics, who will require their tools imme- diately, had better take them along at baggage prices ; time being to them money, they will save by this course. Cattle. — The price of good working cattle, horses, cows, , and 32^ ^ . The Kaitzas Herald of Freedom under the date of Feb. 10th. 1855, says, " but once has the mercury gone down to zero ; and by those long on the ground we are assured that this is an uncommon occurrence; while the mean of all the observations will average only at the freezing point. Where we would ask, could a more delightful temperature be found ? None who have designed to make Kanzas their homes need be deterred from coming from any fear in respect to extreme cold. When the time shall arrive that we shall be surrounded with the comforts and conveniences of the older States, such a thing as discomfort on this account will be unknown." During the past winter, (1^55-'56) th©.re has been some very severe weather in the Territory. A portion of December and January proved colder than has any corresponding period for more than twenty years. Under date of December 29th. the Editor of the Herald of Freedom writes, the thermometer has ranged be- tween zero and 22° below that point for the last week, for \yhich he cannot account, excepting upon the supposition " that the weather table of the latitude of Gluebec has been substituted for that of Kanzas." The latter part of January, snow was six inches deep at Lawrence, and in the river bottoms, at some places, there were drifts, several feet in depth ; the ground was frozen a foot and a half deep, and the river was * In our former editions we expressed a hope tliat Dr. Clark would con- tinue his valuable and highly interesting meteorological obsei-vations. These however, were interrupted by his sudden decease, and it is to be regretted that no one has since taken sufficient interest in the important subject, to Bystematically pursue the investigations by him so praiseworthily commenced. TO KANZAS EMIGRANTS. 15 covered with ice of the same thickness. By the latest accounts received, the rigor of winter had abated.* The winters are, notwithstanding, usually mild, and there is rarely suflicient snow for sleighing. A gentle- man of high respectability, told the writer, that soon after he took up his residence near Kanzas, he pur- chased an excellent, new sleigh, which he used a few- times that winter, and before another opportunity occurred (several years subsequently) the vehicle was so far decayed as to be utterly unserviceable. On the subject of luinter weather we have dwelled at some length, as numerous inquiries have been and are constantly being made in regard to it. We will briefly glance at the other seasons. Our acquaintance with Kanzas, writes Mr. Brown, ranges through seven and a half months, commencing with* the middle of November 1854. Those months, with the exception of April, have been ail we could have desired. April, owing to the high winds that prevailed, (which was also true in other sections of the Country,) proved very unpleasant. June was one of the most * Lest some individuals, forgetful of their own recent experience here, should imagine Kanzas a second Siberia, and the reports heretofore given of its climate, high colored and deceptive, it may be well to state that the past winter has been an extremely rigorous one throughout the Union, and in Italy and various other parts of Europe celebrated for a mild climate. In Philadelphia, the coldness of the month of January was eight degrees below the average for the last thirty years. At ileadville, Pa., Januaiy 25tli. the Thermometer fell to 30° below zero. So cold has it been in South -Carolina, Avhich has usually been supplied with ice from New England, that some per- sons have cut and stored away their own ice. In Mobile, on Jan 22d. the mercury stood at 25 '^ , and ice on the shady sides of the streets gave no indi- cation of thawing. In New Orleans, ice formed on the canals and in the gutters an inch thick, and in exposed situations much thicker. Water, in cisterns, was frozen in the faucets, so that it could not be drawn, and icicles were hanging around; fires and overcoats, and warm coverings at night, were in great demand. In Texas, on'thc upper Brazos, the Thennometer stood atone degree below zero ; cattle were dying and several travellers had peri>^hed from the severity of the cold. Similar instances might be adduced suflicient to fill many pages, were it neccssaiy. As with the land, so has it been with the water : Long Island Sound has been closed ; the Western rivers blocked with ice ; the Mississippi for all purposes of navigation has been shut its entire length ; even the inhabitants of '* the briny deep" have been suft'erers; the Nantucket Inquirer of January 23d. advises us, the excessive cold weather has been particuliM^y severe upon the eels on the coast, hundreds of bushels of which have been driven ashore and raked up on the beach. 16 INFORMATION AND ADVICE lovely months ever known. In July, the range of the Thermometer was from 90 ^ to 100 ^ , between the hours of 10 A. M. and 3 P. M. ; although from the prevalence of gentle winds, the temperature was much cooler to the senses, than is above indicated. However hot may be the weather through the day, it is refreshingly cool and invigorating in the night ; so that indeed a blanket is, not unusually, very acceptable. May, June, and July are pronounced " model months." In August there were just rain and warmth enough to make a healthy and fertile Country ; during the hottest days, the Thermometer ranged between 90 ^ and 94 ^ . September was " a most lovely month " with the excep- tion of the first two or three days, and the last six, when the wind was rather higher than usual, and the atmosphere cold and damp. October, from the 1st. to the 20th., was generally pleasant and beautiful. From the 20th. to the 25th., high north and north-west winds prevailed, the Ther- mometer, through the day, standing below the freezing point ; from that time to the 10th. of November, excepting one day, it was so mild and pleasant that ''workmen were constantly engaged out of doors, and the masons were busy erecting composite walls, which cannot be built during freezing weather." But little rain fell, and only a few flakes of snow were seen in the air, which melted before reaching the ground. *' Taking the month as a whole, we are not conscious of having experienced one so mild and pleasant." Rain. — The annual fall of rain is under thirty inches. The rainiest period usually is from May 10th. to June 10th. ; during v/hich, and at all times, when severe rain storms occur, the roads are somewhat heavy, the creeks troublesome to ford, and travelling becomes tedious. There is very little rain in Midsummer or Autumn ; sometimes indeed,' scarcely as much as is desirable for farming purposes. During the rainy period, very few days pass by without the sun being seen, at least for a short time. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 17 Provisions. — There has been no deficiency of these ; tor ill Lawrence, as elsewhere, the demand produced a supply, by prompting those residing on the borders of the Territory to bring of their abundance to_the Settle- ment ; and the competition was sufficient to keep prices reasonable. This undoubtedly will hold true at other settlements. After the first year or two, the settlements will not only supply themselves, but have a surplus to dispose of. A market for all such surplus may, for years to come, be found near at hand, inasmuch as thousands are pass- ing through that region every year, along the California, Santa Fe, and Great Salt Lake City routes, all of whom require more or less supplies ; besides, the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, and soon a line of railroads, will afford facilities for reaching other markets. Prices Current. — -As inquiries are constantly being made respecting the cost of various articles, the follow- ing Prices Current are presented, showing the state of the market at the Company's first settlements, at Law- rence and Topeka. The prices, with slight variations, will probably answer for the other settlements. PRICES CURRENT. LAWRENCE MARKET. Corrected weekly for the Herald of Freedom. Corn — 50 to 75 cents per bushel ; Corn meal 31 per 50 lbs. Beans — §3 50 per bushel. Flour — In Sacks, 36 25 per hundred ; Superfine, $6. Green Apples— $1 a $1 25 per bush. Dried Peaches — $2 50 per bushel. Butter — Fresh, 30 cents. Beef — 6 a 8 cents per lb. Pork— In bulk, $6 a $6 50 per bund. Hams — Smoked, 15 cts. Bacon, 12 cts. Prime Pickled Pork, 15 cents. Lard — 15 cents per lb. Tallow — 12 1-2 cents per lb. Cheese — 20 cents per lb. 2* Lawrence, February 9, 1856. . Tea— Black, 70 a 80, Green, 80 a $1 per lb. Tobacco — 25 a 70 cents per lb. Sal.eratus — 10 a 12 1-2 cents per lb Bar Soap — 10 a 12 cents per lb. Coarse Boots— 33 a 33 50 per pair. Blankets— $2 a 315. Buffalo Robes— 33 a 38. Calicoes — 10 a 15 cents per yard. De Laines — 25 a 35 cents per yard. Sheetings — Coarse, 8 a 12 cents ; Domestic, 9 a 10 cents ; Bleached, 10 a 15 cents. Lamp Oil — 31 25 per gall. Burning Fluid— 31 25 per gall. 18 INFORMATION AND ADVICE Eggs— 25 cents pev cloz. Salt— Coarse and table, $1 50 per bushel. Sugar — New Orleans, 7 a 12 cents; Crushed, 16 cts. ; White, 12 cts. MoLAssKS — Sugar house, 75 cents ; Golden Syrup, 95 c. ; Syrup, 70 c. Rice — 12 1-2 cents per lb. Ckacivers — 15 cents per lb. CoDi isii — 10 cents per lb. Mackerel — 15 cents per lb. Potatoes, Irish— $1. Squash — 1 cent per lb. Coffee — 14 a 16 2-3 cents per lb. Iron — Bar, 8 cts.; Rounciaud Square, 9 a 10 cts. ; Nail rod, 12 1-2 cts. Nails — $8 per hundred. Hides — Dried, 8 cts.; Green, 4 cts. Hay— $8 a SIO per ton. LuMBER^S25 a $85 per thousand ft Hard Wood — $3 per coi-d. Shot— 12 1-2 cts. per lb. ; Lead, 10 cts. ; Powder, 35 a 50 cts. Window Sash — 8 a 10 cts. per light. TOPEKA MARKET. Corrected weekly hy Allen <^ Gordon, for the Kanzas Tribune. Beef per lb 5 a 6 Bacon per lb , 10 Ham 12 Flour, s. f. per cwt $7 00 " Fine ....^6 00 Eggs per doz 30 Corn Meal $1 25 Beans per bushel $3 50 Lard 12 Cheese 18 a 25 Cofiee 20 Codfish 15 Butter 30 Pickled Porli per lb 10 Glass per doz 50 a 1 10 Sash per light 8 a 12 Vinegar per gaU 35 Candy 30 Raisins 20 a 30 Starch 15 Sala^ratus per lb 10 Burning Fluid $1 40 Lamp Oil per gall $1 25 Tallow per lb 12 Salt per bag $6 00 Potatoes ...$1 75 Sugar, brown, per lb , . . 10 " crushed 15 " refined 16 Syrup $1 25 Molasses per gall 70 a 80 Drillings ,12 a 15 Bleached Muslin 10 a 15 Domestics per yard 10 a 25 Stove Pipe per lb 15 a 16 Lumber per M $25 00 u 35 00 Wood per cord $2 00 a 3 00 Saws, cross-cut, American plate, per fopt $1 80 ToPEKA, February 18, 185G. Saws, cross-cut, German $1 00 Cook Stoves, Ohio pattern, No. 4, funiiture $27 50 Cook Stoves, Ohio pattern. No. 3 $23 50 Cook Stoves, Ohio pattern, No. 2 $18 20 Cook Stovea^ Charter Oak, No. 4 $36 00 Cook Stoves, Charter Oak, No. 3 $32 50 Axes $1 50 Star Candles 30 Crackers 25 Nails all kinds 8 a 10 Nail Rod Iron 10 Hoop Iron 15 One-eight 10 Three-eights round and square.. 11 Seven-eights oval 10 Iron flat bars, [heavv,] per lb 9 LligH] 10 Blankets per pair $2 50 a 15 00 Cassinetts 50 a 1 00 Flannels 25 a 50 Calicoes 8 a 15 All other articles of merchandise at corresponding rates. Ponies $25 a BO 00 Horses $75 a 125 00 Oxen per yoke $75 a 100 00 Cows $25 rt 35 00 Sheep $2 00 rt 3 00 Bedsteads $4 00 a 12 00 Chairs $6 00 a 18 00 Bureaus $16 00 a 40 00 Tables $5 00 a 10 00 TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 19 Modes of Conveyance. — Vehicles are very frequently passing between Kanzas City, Lawrence, and Tojjeka, by which means those who intend locating in the vicinity of said towns will be conveyed there, for about four dollars the passage. Persons and Parties destined for other sections of the Territory may engage conveyance, at Kanzas City; or will probably adopt the course pursued by some who have preceded them; viz., those who intend to be Farmers will purchase their teams, and thus atford means for taking along the baggage of all their associates. There is a regular line of Stages between Kanzas City and Lawrence, also between Leavenworth and Lawrence,, and Kanzas City and Osawatomie. In the course of the season, it is expected that one or more steamboats and flat boats, constructed for the purjHjse, will ply on the Kanzas river, ascending 150 miles or more, according to the stage of the water, and the encouragement extended to the enterprise. We consider that no more profitable business could be engaged in, than that of transporting freight to the various settlements on Kanzas river. It is true that the state of the river during a large part of the boating season of 1855 seems to militate against such an opinion. That season, however, was an extraordinary one ; the Kaw river being, throughout the period, lower than it had been known to be for twenty-five years ; and the cause which produced this, also serious- ly aftected the Missouri and other Western rivers ; viz. the small quantity of ice and snow in the Mountains the preceding Winter. The great abundance of both the past Winter, gives promise of a good state of navi- gation the coming season. Competent judges inform the writer that the Kaw River, will, on an average, be navigable, at least as far as Lawrence, three years out of four, through the greater part of the Missouri river season ; when not navigable, the Boat could be remu- neratively employed on the Missouri, conveying flour up, or grain down. To ensure a profitable business, 20 INFORMATION AND ADVICE attention to several points is absolutely requisite ; the Boat must be of very light draught ; the Captain must be an experienced, sober, active and energetic man ; and the Pilot must possess, and bring into practice strict temperance principles. Accommodations in the Territory. — It was origi- nally intended to establish Receiving Houses at the principal Places, for the temporary accommodation of new comers. This was done at Lawrence. But the necessity for them is in a great measure superseded by the opening of Boarding Houses at the Settlements. Were it however otherwise, not being constructed on a locomotive principle, settlers ought not, and probably would not he so unreasonable as to expect to meet with them everywhere throughout that vast region ; neither are they requisite in a large majority of cases, (however convenient,) inasmuch as all who go out in the Spring and Summer, if industrious, will have time to provide themselves with shelter, prior to the ensuing winter. The quickest, cheapest, and most comfortable way of securing shelter, at the onset, is to take along tents. These should be procured on the way out, at St. Louis. One of sufficient size to lodge four or live individuals may be had for from $8 to $10.* At Lawrence, the Company has erected a commo- dious stone Hotel, 50 by 70 feet, three stories high, and a basement ; this will accommodate a very large number of individuals and families. It is said to be the finest structure of the kind. West of St. Louis. Families. — Whether or not to take one's family along, or go ahead and prepare the way for it, depends on many circumstances, varying greatly in different cases, a knowledge of which is essential, satisfactorily to decide the question. Where the wife is feeble, has an infant, or several young children, or from any cause cannot lend a helping hand, she had better remain be- hind^ until the new ho7ne is provided for her ; or, if taken along, she had better be boarded at the nearest * See further on p. 24. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 21 convenient place to the spot selected for a location. If, on the other hand, the woman is the man, or is in truth a helpmate, and can cheerfully submit to roughing- it for a while, if the children be of an age and character suited to prove serviceable, let them he taken along. If families remain back, it will be unnecessary to return for them, as there will always be some one going out under whose charge they can be placed! DoARD. — This can be obtained at Boarding Houses in Kanzas City, Mo., and at Lawrence, Topeka, Osa- watomie, Manhattan, Leavenworth, and Council City, K. T., and perhaps at some of the Missions, for from $3,00 to $4,00 per week. At hotels it will be much higher : probably about $7,00 per week. Employment. — Work is 7iot guaranteed by the Coni- pany to any one ; but wherever settlements already are, or hereafter maybe started, ^ooc/ mechanics will find employment at remiinei^ative prices] particularly car- penters, masons, blacksmiths, harness-makers, brick- makers, &c. Gov. Reeder, wrote in December, 1S54 — " This is a most lovely and promising country. There is no finer under the sun, and next summer it will be a rich harvest for all kind of building mechanics and laborers. Last season stone masons and carpenters got $2,25 and S2,50 a day, laborers $1,25 and $1,50. A legion of them will be needed early in the spring and all summer. If you have any to spare send them along. "We shall pay out in the Territory near a million of dollars in building, and a man can be earning the highest wages and getting a good farm at SI. 25 per acre at the same time. The Government alone will spend $100,000 or $150,000 in stone buildings, at Fort Kiley. The stone mason, carpenter, brickmaker, bricklayer, plasterer, laborer, limeburner, &c., can lay the foundation of a fortune here the first year. Send them on, I know they will not repent it. We have as yet had nothing I would call winter, and I doubt if it will be any colder. Spring opens about the 1st of March, and mechanics, &c., should be here at that time. There are some twenty towns laid out, the greater part of which must be built up, to say nothing of farm houses, &c." As already suggested, the Company advises no o?ie, entirely destitute of mca7is, to go out, at this early period; individuals who can command the requisite funds (which indeed are but small,) to sustain them the 22 INFORMATION AND ADVICE first year, in other words until a crop is raised, or em- ployment is sure, can go in perfect safety, and unques- tionably should better their condition by going ; others mat/ find sufficient work to supply means, but it is pre- mature for a very large number of such to go, although thus far the supply of laborers has not kept pace with the demand ; men of determined energy, great self-reli- ance, industrious and temperate habits, who are not easily disheartened, and whose indomitable perseverance will enable them to surmount such obstacles as the set- tlers of new regions will be obliged to encounter, though less perhaps in Kanzas than in most unreclaimed regions, such need not hesitate to immigrate, though dependent solely on their hands and daily exertions for a liveli- hood ; all others, who are thus destitute, should " bide their time." Climate* and Diseases. — ''The only objection we have found to the climate of Kanzas, thus far," (says the Herald of Freedom,) "is the heavy winds, which usually blow from one to three days at a time over the prairies, making it rather disagreeable to be exposed out of doors. We think the wind and storms are not more violent than in Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio." Professional men pronounce the climate a remark- ably healthy one, admirably adapted to those having a tendency to diseases of the lungs. It is in a great measure free from that pest of many Western places, intermittents, or fever and ague ; (chills and fever, or shakes as popularly termed ;) cases can and do occur there, mainly however, from imprudence ; and probably will be met with to some extent, on the first breaking up of the lands ; but such is the character of the country, and consequent deficiency of existing material, it is not probable that it will become one of the permanent dis- eases of the region. * Some remarks bearing on this, will be found under the head of Weather We now speak of it in relation to its healthfulness. TO KANZAS IxMMIGRANTS. 23 During the past Summer (1855) this disease prevailed at most of the settlements, far more generally than had been anticipated. But, from a personal examination of the locations, and an inquiry into the habits and modes of living of the sufierers, the writer is convinced that ix very large proportion of the cases, with ordinary care, might have been avoided, and after their occurrence, with prudence and judicious remedial management, might have been promptly cured. It should not be for- gotten that during the period referred to, exciting and predisposing causes were more active and virulent than usual, as is evident from the fact that various Indian tribes, in Kanzas Territory and elsewhere, reported a greater prevalence of the disease than had occurred for many years previously ; and from the additional facts that it raged with unwonted violence in those sections of the West usually afflicted with it, and that it also appeared in many quarters (as in the interior of Ohio,) where it never before manifested itself. It is said that this disease when it attacks Indians, yields more readily to medicines, than when Whites are the suiferers. Prior to the appearance of the cholera, a period of six years elapsed without a single death occurring, to the knowledge of Dr. Lykins,* between Kanzas City, Mo., and the region of the Big Blue, in the vicinity of Fort Riley ; a distance of 125 miles West. From October to August, previous to the irruption of that disease, there was an almost complete immuni- ty from sickness. The most sickly period is in April and May, when bowel complaints, having a typhoid tendency, prevail. Most sickness in the Fall occurs from the middle of August to the middle of September, and then bilious remittents and intermittents occur ; some seasons, typhoid fever makes its appearance, w4iich it * To this gentleman we are under great obligations for his unceasing kind- ness, and his assiduous professional attendance, during a period of six weeks, whilst we were confined with a severe attack of typhoid fever. We with much pleasure avail of this opportunity to recommend him to all who may need tlxe services of a kind and competent Physician. 34 INFORMATION AND ADVICE did last Fall for the second time only, in 12 or 15 years. A large portion of the cholera cases of which we hear so much, particularly on the Western waters, and at the river towns, result from gross imprudence ; as is evident from the fact that from two thirds to three fourths of them break out early in the week, i. e. after the excesses indulged in, Saturday nights and on Sundays. In Winter, a few coughs and colds, and some cases of pneumonia or lung fever are met with ; — but little else. Cost of Building. — This of course must vary accord- ing to the material used, the size and style of the house, &c., &c. The main aim at first, when so many im- portant matters will require attention, should be to put up a cheap, temporary shelter. A tent costing from ^8,00 to $15,00 will accommodate five or six persons, tolerably Avell. A stone house, somewhat similar to the concrete form, may be built for from 12 1-2 to 14 cents the cubic foot. A house thus constructed, a story and a half high, will cost, ready for occupancy, from $300 to $500. A permanent log house of the same dimensions, from $100 to $250 ; one suitable for transient occu- pancy, from $50 to $100; the former would require the labor of four hands for two weeks, the last the same number for one week. In all cases, avoid lying immediately on the damp ground or green grass. Where material can be had, and it is difficult to conceive where it cannot, a flooring should be laid at once, no matter how rough and rude it be. At all events, elevate the resting place above both. By neglect of this simple precaution, much un- necessary sickness and suffering have been endured. The writer visited several tenements whilst in the Ter- ritory, where the grass under the bedding was rank with mould, and yet the inmates could not conceive why they were racked with pains more than their neighbors. Avoid building in the low bottoms, on the banks of the streams, or among the timber on the borders ; the more elevated the site, the less liability to sickness. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 25 The Kanzas Tribune recommends a Puncheon floor- ing, which the editor thus describes: " It is made by splitting a log in flat pieces, hewing one side to a {)lain surfiice, and notching the other down to fit sleepers. Small ogs are sometimes nearly split in two, ma"king large slahs, while larger ones are split in three or four pieces. After splitting the pieces, each end is laid on a piece of timber, in which is placed two pins to hold the puncheon on its edge, and thus it is hewed in the same man- ner as any other piece of timber, and turning it down, the edges are squared. After laying down a floor of this kind, the surface is fre- quently made even with an adze. It is a very substantial floor, and can be made quite handsome. These were the kind of floors almost universally used in the log cabins of the West. There is no use in being without a floor where there is timber enough to make one." Time of commencing farm work, its cost, the kind AND VALUE OF CROPS, &c. — Ou thcsc poiuts, WG avail of information furnished for publication by an individual bitterly and uncompromisingly opposed to the present New England movement, and who has exerted himself to throw all the im{)ediments and discouragements pos- sible in the way of those who contemplate emigrating from the Free States ; when such a person is compelled to make so flattering statements as the subjoined, there is no necessity for our friends ofl"ering any extra induce- ments to freemen to become citizens of Kanzas. It may be well to premise that the cost of hiring Prairie land broken up, will be about three dollars per acre ; and we understand that individuals, suitably prepared, and acquainted with the business, purpose pursuing it as a vocation ; so that what Gen. Stringfellow deems an insuperable difliculty in the way of New England and Western farmers, can easily be obviated ; and where no one can be hired, resort will be had to the very com- mon practice, of which he seems ignorant, of doubling, or trebling teams, and thus mutually aiding one another. He says : — ^ " The greatest difficulty is in the command of the requisite labor — the hands and team necessary to break and enclose the land. To one who has this, it is far easier and cheaper to make a farm of one hundred acres or more, in the prairie than in the timber. Indeed, in Missouri it is deemed better and cheaper in 3 26 INFORMATION AND ADVICE the end to make a farm of three hundred acres in the prairie and to haul the rails ten miles, than to clear timbered land. The plough used will turn over from twenty to twenty-six inches, and one team will break from two to two and a half acres per day. The cattle require no other feed, but will keep fat on the gi'ass while at work. The proper season for breaking prairie is from the first of May to the middle of July ; up to which time corn can be planted. The com is dropped in the furrow, by a boy who can sit on the plough, and is covered by the plough. It will usually mature and make good corn if planted as early as the first of June. That planted later will make good stock feed. Prairie may be broken up as late as the middle of August, and will, if sown, yield a wheat crop equal to any that can be afterwards grown on the ground. To one who has stock to feed, the crop of corn on the sod is always worth the cost of breaking ; and will, in a good season, pay for breaking and enclosing. In the second year, the farm is in perfect condition ! There are no stumps, but the sod is rotted, and your field clear of weeds and grass, is light and mellow as an ash-band. In the prairie, too, a hand can cultivate one-third more than in the timber. I ought here to say that both in Missouri and Kanzas the wi-nters are always dry, and with but little snow, and hence hands are able to work during the entire winter." As regards yield of crops, the same writer makes the following statement, to show the great profit of slave labor ; and we will not insult the good sense of our friends, by doubting for a moment that a /re^man can accomplisli as much as a 6on«/man. He says : — " Lying in the same latitude, immediately west, and along side of Missouri, the soil and climate of Kanzas cannot differ materially from those of Missouri. I am inclined to believe that Kanzas will prove even healthier than Missouri, there being less low marshy land in Kanzas. " Before leaving home, I procured from intelligent farm- ers in Platte, a country bordering on Kanzas, a statement show- ing the amount of land which one hand can cultivate, with the yield per acre, and the market price of the products at home. I have no hesitation in attesting its correctness. $425 00 585 00 600 00 225 00 100 00 TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 27 Amount of land to hand and yield per acre. Hemp — 7 to S acres, 800 to 1200 pounds. Corn — 10 to 15 acres, 10 to 20 barrels. Wheat — 10 to 15 acres, 20 to 45 bushels. Oats — 10 to 15 acres, 30 to 50 VALUE OF PRODUCTS AT HOME. Hemp— 2^ tons at $8 per ton, $200 00 Corn — 100 barrels at $1 per barrel, 100 00 Wheat — 5 acres — 100 bushels at 80 cents per bushel, 80 00 Oats — 5 acres — 150 bushels at CO cts per bushel. 45 00 Total least yield at lowest prices, Hemp — 4 J tons at $ 1 30 per ton. Corn — 300 barrels at $2 per barrel. Wheat — 5 acres — 225 bushels at $1 per bushel, Oats — 5 acres — 250 bushels at 40 cents per bushel, G-reatest yield at highest prices, $1,510 00 This will, doubtless, seem an extravagant estimate ,' yet the quotations of the markets will show that the maximum prices are less than the present market prices. Hemp has sold during the past season for $150 per ton. Wheat is worth $1,25 per bushel, and corn $3 per barrel. The yield, too, is often greater than the highest. But it is not less true that the greatest yield and highest price are not often together. My object is rather to show the least yield and the lowest price. To a distance of 150 miles west, the soil is but little, if any inferior to that of Missouri. Its great staples must be hemf^ and tobacco — ^ '^ =-'^ I need hardly say that the grains and grasses will all succeed, where hemp and tobacco can be grown. I have said that Kanzas was not suited to the poor man ; I only intended to refer to those who design to till the ground. [ ! ! ! ] But to the poor mechanic it offers great inducements. To all carpenters especially, and to stone and brick masons it will give constant employment at high wages. The rudest beginner receives $1,50 per day — good workmen, as journeymen, receive in regular employment from two to three dollars per day. Their expenses are light, the cost of living being low." It has been so often alleged against the Company and its Agents, that they have portrayed in glowing and 28 INFORMATION AND ADVICE deceptive colors, the beauty and fertility of Kanzas Territory, and thereby allured people to migrate thither, who, had the truth been fitly spoken, would never have wandered from their homes, — and as the allegation is made, not only by those openly opposed to our move- ments, but by many in our very midst, who covertly side with the enemy, or are led astray by the disheart- ening statements of returned discontented ones, we sub- join the opinions of two other writers, whose character and standing are vouched for by pro-slavery presses. The first extracts subjoined, are from a letter written by a gentleman at Platte City, Mo., Nov. 30, 1855, and addressed to a friend in Georgia. That there may be no mistake as regards his hostility to us, we copy a portion of his second paragraph. " I live in sight of Kanzas. My first two children were born there. You are aware that on the passage of the Kanzas-Nebraska Bill, New England rose in her might, formed aid societies, and vomited forth on us all the dirt and filth of her degraded fanaticism." After much in the same style, he declares. " As far as health, climate and profit of negro labor is concerned, this is better than any country in the Union. It is true, we have hot and cold, wet and dry weather, but I never saw the country where a man can be more independent, and make his bread and meat with less 'capital than here. * * Ten or twelve furrowt run in corn will make ten barrels to the acre. One thousand pounds of hemp is a common crop to the acre. Wheat and oats do well ; oceans of grass and swarms of cattle ; and withal good markets for everything. " This is the stake that poor, barren New England contends for and hates to surrender ; and it remains for the South to say. Your blood and treasure paid for half of the seven territories, which at present belong to the United States. Has not the South manliness to take possession of one ? And if you don't get Kanzas, which one can you get ? None, none. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 29 "We want your moving population to come here. We want your poor and rich, who are inclined to move at all, to come to Kanzas, and while they thns secure this glorious Territory to the South, and the Union to us all, take my word as a man of honor, they will reap a rich harvest in their own personal advancement.'' Our other witness is the Hon. Sterling G. Cato, one of the Territorial Judges, who holds his appointment under the administration of President Pierce. In a let- ter of recent date, addressed to his brother, residing at Eufaula, Alabama, he says, " The people here are quiet and orderly, sharp and intelligent ; a little rough in manners, but warm-heart- ed and cordial. This is as fine a country as any on the face of the earth, and the profits of its productions woiUd far exceed those of the cotton fields of the South. All kinds of grain, grass, clover and hemp, yield a rich product. I have no doubt but that slave labor would yield in hemp, corn and grain, at least from thirty to forty dollars per acre annually. I have seen no poor land, it all seems to me richer than the best Chattahoo- chee bottom, and most of it just such ^and as in the adjoining Missouri, counties, is now seeing at from $20 to $50 dollars per acre. Corn is now selling at twenty cents per bushel, and the product estimated at one hun- dred bushels an acre ; and hemp crop (six tons per hand,) at $140 per ton, awd you see at once how labor is more productive her^ than at the South. It is im- possible to give an «ndequate idea of the beauty and fer- tility of the soil a^jd country ; generally rolling, without a great deal of timber, but, as I understand, abounding in coal for ^res, and stone for building and fencing; good we/is of water can be obtained anywhere, besides frequent streams running through the prairies." To the preceding we would add, three of the best branches of business to engage in, are wool growing, stock raising, and dairy farming, for which purposes there probably is not to be found a superior region j and those who early embark in either, will in a few 3# 30 INFORMATION AND ADVICE years realize large fortunes, as the fruits of their in- dustry. Land Warrants. — The inquiry is often made of us, whether Land Warrants are or will be available in Kan- zas ? We answer, if the holders of them are not, or do not intend to become actual settlers, they cannot at present locate them either in Kanzas, or Nebraska ; for lands must first be surveyed, offered at public sale, and rendered subject to private entry, before they. can thus be taken up. These Warrants will,, however, be receiv- ed in payment for preemption claims. To holders, therefore, who are actual settlers under the preemption law, they will prove as good as money, when pay day comes, for securing their 160 acres of land.* The Indian tru,st lands will not be subject to Land Warrant locations, if Government act in good faith ; as by treaty they are to be sold for the benefit of the Indians. Fencing, &c. — To fence with rails will cost about sixty cents per rod ; stone walls can be built for about one dollar per rod ; and what is known in the Territory as picket fence, for forty cents per rod. Indians. — From the Indians, the original and rightful owners of the soil, the settler has nothing to fear, so long as in his intercourse with them, he squares his conduct by the Golden Rule. The poor native has in times past suffered more, and now has far more to appre- hend, from the white man, tham the white man from him. Most of those with whom ihe settlers will come in contact, are in what we call, a semi-civilized state ; they are not roving, '' wild Indians," here to-day and there to-morrow, but have permanent locations, cultivate the soil, raise some cattle, sow' and plant ; and from them, on fair terms, the immigrants may obtain vegeta- bles, fencing stuff, &c. &c. Many of these, particularly among the Shawnees, the Wyandots, and the Delawares, are highly intelligent, and have a good common school education ; among ♦These remarks will not apply to Warrants issued under the Act of 1850. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 31 them will be found active and shrewd business men ; some speak French and English almost as fluently as their native tongue ; and among the females some may- be met with who have received instruction in Music and Drawing. Twice in the course of liis tour, the writer had the pleasure of an interview with an individ- ual, a Pottawattomie by birth, and a Ottawa by adop- tion, who received a liberal education in one of the Collegiate Institutions of Western New York ; he is a worthy member of church, and a philanthropist, whose face is never averted from the needy, nor door closed against the weary and way worn traveller. Among most of the tribes, Protestant and Catholic Missions have been established for many years, and accomplished much good. Until recently, the Friends and the Baptists have supported schools in the Shawnee Reserve. It is a subject of great regret that at a time when above all others it is of the utmost importance that the principles of '' pure and undefiled religion " should be inculcated, the Baptist Board, and we think the Friends, have abandoned their vantage ground, and left their former pupils and their descendants to go astray, or be subjected to the tender mercies of those who have not their welfare at heart. We must think those Denominations have acted under wrong impressions, and that they will ere long renew their works of benev- olence and Christianity. Towards this ill-fated race, were the hand of friend- ship more frequently extended, than the weapon of de- struction levelled, were the policy of Government one of peace rather than of war, of civilization than of brutali- zation, or what it threatens to be, of extermination, it would be far more to the credit of the white man, and we should eventually be convinced of the erroneousness of the long prevalent opinion, that the red man is irre- claimable. This Company has always enjoined upon its Agents and upon settlers, to avoid committing trespasses upon any of the Indian tribes. Pursuing this course, it has 32 INFORMATION AND ADVICE declined making locations at several desirable sites where towns have since been established, by those less scrnpulons, against whose incursions, the Indian Agents, the ostensible and legal guardians and protectors of the tribes, have raised no successful opposition. Settlements and Population. — The first settlement under the auspices of the Company was commenced in August, 1854. A few months subsequently, Gen. B. F. Stringfellow, in a long Letter addressed to certain members of Congress, with the view of '-enlightening " the people of the South, " touching the settlement of Kanzas Territory, and its adaptedness to slave labor," uttered the following sentiments and predictions: "I was somewhat alarmed when I saw our Southern friends seemingly ready to surrender it, deterred by the declaration of those on whom they were accustomed to rely, that ' it was not adapted to slave labor,' while, at the same time. Abolitionists were organizing their com- panies, with millions of capital to colonise that Terri- tory. Yet I never despaired ! I still declared that, though sent out they could not remain, they could not live in the prairies." ********* =M' District one " included the toAvn of Lawrence, to which those sent by the Abolition Societies were forwarded. Those Societies show, by their reports, that they have transported to Kanzas 3,000 during the past summer; and I incline to the belief that the number is not over stated. Of that number, you will see, there were left on the day of the election, but 248 ! Of these, I am credibly informed, 150 left on the day following the election, having complied with their contract in voting. Others have since left, and I can safely say, that of the Avhole batch, there will not by March, [1855] be fifty left in the Territory ! They were not such men as could settle a prairie country." ******** " It is not adapted to the making of towns; it is not suited for little farms ; it cannot be settled by those who have not the command of labor. TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 33 " To the farmer who has no * help,' — but is depen- dent on his own unaided labor, Kanzas is, of all, the least desirable country; it cannot be settled by such." # # # # * # * #' '*In no instance has prairie land been first settled by poor men. After a country is settled, and every facility is afforded, it is just possible for one here and there to make a farm on the prairie. In Missouri such in- stances even yet, are rare." If the above opinions, so magesterially set forth, be taken as correct, then the results to which we shall now refer are more astonishing, and magnificent, than any of the fairy work described in the thousand- and one stories of the Sultaness of the Indies, and in com- parison therewith, the fabled wonder of the Dragon's teeth shrinks into utter insignificance. The ninety -eight men, which are said to have re- mained in the Territory on the 30th. of November, 1854, the poor remnant of three thousand, and these shortly to be blotted out, as though they never were, not beings ^^ such men as could settle a prairie coiin- ^;-y," have since increased to hundreds, and now to thousands ; the Population of the Territory, at the lowest estimate, has reached 25,000, and according to the mtelligent correspondent of the Missouri Democrat, who writes under date of Jan. last, it has reached 60,000 ; three-fifths of whom entertain Free State sen- timents. Although the Territory '' is not adapted to- the mak* ing of towns, ''^ the following, which contain from three hundred to eighteen hundred inhabitants, have already sprung into existence ; viz. Lawrence, Topeka, Man- hattan, Osawatomie, Hampden, Council City, and Leavenworth ; to which may be added the smaller set- tlements of Waubonse, Blanton, Brownville, Big Springs, Easton, Ohio City, Ocena, and the German Settlement on Upper Mill Creek. Although " ?io^ suited for little farms, ''^ the whole country, round about every one of the above named 34 INFORMATION AND ADVICE towns, is so completely occupied with them, that it is extremely difficult to find an unimproved track whereon to locate. Further, though ^^ it cannot he settled by those who have not the command of labor, ^^ and " /o the farmer who has no help, Kanzas is, of all, the least desirable country,^' the name of just that description of settlers is legion, and " the cry is still they come." From Law- rence to Topeka, the traveller is never out of sight of the dwelling, or cornfield of such a settler ; and let him direct his steps whithersoever he may, towards the Wakarusa, up the Kanzas, along the Big Blue, on the banks of their numerous tributaries, down upon the Neosho, in the Osage country, or elsewhere, the well tilled land, the cultivated fields, the luxuriant crops of grain, all betoken that the indomitable will, the untiring energy, the persevering industry, the unceasing activity of freemen have placed their inefifaceable stamp upon the soil ; and the humble dwellings as unmistakeably show that those freemen belong to the class who arc ^^ dependent on their own unaided labor,^^ for prosperity and success. It is the bone, and sinew, and muscle of the ^^poor me?t," the sturdy yeomanry of the land, which have wrought such astonishing changes, in such an almost incredibly brief space of time ; of ^'poor men,'^ by whom it is asserted, *'m no instance has prairie land been first settled,''^ and of whom it is declared to be ^^ jnst possible for one here and there to make a farm on a prairie, after a country is settled and every facil- ity afforded.^'' ! II Men, poor, perhaps in purse, but rich in the mental, moral, and physical resources which in reality constitute men, and without which, even with the wealth of Croesus, they would be poor indeed. Of some of the principal settlements we have named, there are subjoined brief and hasty sketches ; our limits not v/arranting us in going much into detail, nor in specially noticing all of them, however gratifying it might be to us. *rO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. ts Lawrence. This was the first settlement made un- der the auspices'of the Company. The Pioneer Party, which started from Boston July 17th. 1854, ^r5^ pitched their tents " within a stone's throw from the bank of the river." The Second Party, which arrived early in September following, judiciously encamped on the high ground, in the rear of the now flourishing town, near the great California trail. These Parties united their forces, and went vigorously'to work on the present town site. This spot was thus described by George S. Parks, Esq., as it appeared to him in June, 1854. " On both sides of the river, above the Wakarusa, there are excel- lent bottom lands ; and, a short way beyond these, another fine site for a town presents itself on the north side — while still farther up on the south bank, the high prairie comes right down to the water's edge, presenting another appropriate place, where the busy hum of commerce may by and by speak the presence of a city. Here we saw numerous cabins of settlers ; and away, as far as the eye could reach, in a southwesterly direction, the prairies werc< high and rolling like the waves of Old Ocean. Southward, beautiful grov(?B dot the prai- rie, and the dark line of timber that stretches along the Wakarusa valley — with the great Prairie-mound, so to speak, fixed there as the land mark of perpetual beauty — the meandering river, with its dark skirting forests of timber on the north — all are scenes in Nature's magnificent Panorama, here brought within range of vision. Pro- ceeding north, high rich bottoms extend for many miles, and we saw vast thickets of grape-vines, pea-vines, raspberries, and pawpaws. The timber was principally oak, walnut, ash, hickory, mulberry, hackberry, linden, cotton-wood and coffee-bean." Surely all who have heard the "busy hum," and witnessed the activity and industry which have since characterized that place, so clearly indicating that '' Young Anierica " is there, will feel constrained to acknowledge, in regard to the above writer, that the spirit of prophecy was in him. Lawrence received its present appellation in Septem- ber, 1854. The name was selected, as we were in- formed at the time, " first, in honor of the Treasurer of the Emigrant Aid Company, Amos A. Lawrence, Esq., both as an individual and officer of the Company ; second, because the name sounded well, and had no bad odor attached to it, in any part of the Union, or world ; and lastly, because the citizens preferred it to any other." 36 INFORMATION AND ADVIOE The town was surveyed by Mr. A. D. Searl. The streets, thirty-two in number, running horth and south, are named after the several States constituting the Union. The rnain street is called Massachusetts, she having been the prime mover in the enterprise ; to the east of this are twelve streets which are designated by the names of the remainder of the '' old thirteen ; " to the west are niiieteen more, which bear the names of the other States, in the order of their admission, begin- ning with Vermont and ending with California. All of these are eighty feet wide, with the exception of Mas- sachusetts Street, which is one hundred feet. At right angles to these, run other streets, which are named after individuals, distinguished for their Patriotism, Philan- thropy, and Love of Liberty, Within the town limits are numerous parks, which* bear, among others, the honored names of Washington, Franklin, LaFayette, Hamilton, Roger Williams, Fulton, and Clinton. The first elevation in the rear of the town, was«called Oread Mount in compliment to Eli Thayer, Esq. This was originally set apart for Schools and Churches ; the still more elevated ground further back, known as Capitol Hill, was designed for County and other Public Build- ings. " It embraces an extensive, slightly rolling prairie for the business streets, and a large park, and also high table lands and beautiful inclined planes, for public buildings and residences. Its geographical position is not inferior to its topographical ; and that it will equal any other in character and enterprise, none will doubt who know the inhabitants." The town contains many substantial stone buildings, a fine stone Hotel, already alluded to, and known as the Free State Hotel, three Saw Mills, a good Grist Mill, several large wholesale and retail stores, at one of which $20,000 worth of goods were disposed of the past year, two printing offices and many other estab- lishments. Ground has already been broken for a Unitarian, and soon 'will be for a Congregational FOR KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 37 house of Worship. Members of other Denominations are also actively engaged in raising funds for Church edifices. The inhabitants number about fifteen hun- dred ; and nowhere throughout tlie Union can there be found a town, which, proportioned to its size, contains so large a number of liberally educated individuals. TopEKA. This is the second place, in time, estab- lished as a Free State settlement. The site was selected by the Agents of this Company, and on their recom- mendation, certain individuals of the Fifth Party here drove down their stakes on the 29th. day of November, 1854 ; they were a few days after joined by " the ad- vance column " of the Sixth Party, and on the 5th. of December, an organization was completed, and the town founded ; subsequently further accessions were made 10 their number, and they rapidly advanced in prosper- ity ; so that it has at length become the third town in the Territory, in point of size and importance. It lies on the south bank of the Kanzas River, about 75 miles from the mouth, 25 miles west of Lawrence, and 75 miles east of Fort Riley. The town is one and a half miles square ; the streets are one hundred feet wide, running from Kanzas River to Shungamung, or Red Horse Creek ; the house lots are 75 feet front, and 150 feet deep. It contains several stone structures, a number of stores, two Printing offices, from each of which a weekly Newspaper is regularly issued ; a Saw Mill, Grist Mill, and other conveniences; ground has been broken for a Methodist Church, 40 by 60 feet in dimensions; the foun- dation of a new Hotel was commenced, and many new buildings were being erected as the cold weather set in. It is the centre " of one of the largest, unbroken tracts of beautiful, healthful, and productive farm claims of which the Territory can so justly boast. Its local nat- ural advantages are unsurpassed. The purest water can either be obtained from the living fountain, or by the sinkmg of wells to a depth less than twenty-five feet. — Stone for building purposes, of the finest quality and in 4 38 INFORMATION AND ADVICE inexhaustible quantities, abounds within the city limits. Brick of superior richness of coloring and hardness of finish, are furnished at the yard at less than six dollars per thousand. The purest limestone and sand for building, can readily be procured within the city limits and the immediate vicinity. Within a range of three miles from the city, several veins of stone coal have been opened which our smiths pronounce but little inferior to the Pittsburg, Pa. coal. Convenient to To- peka, there are large tracts of excellent timbered land. It is connected with all the prominent places in the Territory, by old and well travelled roads — among which is the regular established route from Indepen- dence, and Kanzas City, Mo., to California, making its crossing of the Kanzas River at this place, by the old and well known Papan Ferry." It was here that a Convention of Delegates assembled, and framed the Constitution of the projected State of Kanzas ; and here also the first Legislature under the Constitution, contemplate assembling on the fourth of March next. The Kaw land, over against Topeka, on the opposite side of the Kanzas River, ccuitains a fine tract of heavy timber, one mile in width, and twenty-one miles in length. Within a circuit of four miles around this town, there were by estimate, when the writer was there, a thousand acres of cornfields, Avhich at a very low calculation, would yield 25.000 bushels of grain ; a large amount consider- ing that is was on the sod, that a few months only had elapsed since the first furrow was cut, and that there was a constant demand on every one's time, for the multiplicity of purposes requiring attention at the birth of a settlement. A traveller in that region, about two months subse- quent to the period when the place was founded, writes, " passing a few cabins of actual settlers, we came upon a beautiful rise of ground, at the western end of a high and exceedingly rich bottom. Here is TO KANSAS IMMIGRANTS. 39 situated the new City — Topeka. The right kind of men and enterprise are found here ; and though later in the start than her neighbors, she is thought to bid fair to equal any, and outstrip many, in the race for population. " As we rode west from the high ground on the out- skirts, we found ourselves in the midst of one of the most delightful farming countries I ever beheld ; and often, as from some new point the landscape would present itself in a new and more attractive view, the exclamation would escape from one and another ' How grand! What a glorious country!' Far to the south was the line of timber pointing out the path of the Wakarusa, a little rivulet now, but soon, when swollen with the spring rains, to be a mighty, impetuous river, coursing its way onward to join the Kanzas below Lawrence. Nearer rises a high mound, named, proba- bly on account of its imposing appearance and lofty grandeur, Webster Peak. To the north, lies the valley of the Kanzas with its rich bottoms and heavy forests. All the intervening country, for many miles in extent, is one of the most rich and rolling prairies that I ever beheld. It cannot be long ere the hand of industry and skill will convert this lovely country into an Eden." Manhattan. — This town is located on the fork of land made by the junction of the Big Blue with the Kanzas River. The location is a beautiful and highly advantageous one, and the men who formed it, are distinguished for their enterprise, perseverance, ener- getic powers, and moral worth. The view from the summit of Bhie Mont is magnificent, and it would be difficult to decide between this, and the panorama dis- played from Capitol Hill. Lawrence, to which, if either, the preference should be awarded. The rich prairies in the vicinity, and the nearness of a good market for all the surplus stock of grain that may be raised, the purity of the streams, the abundance of living springs that swell out upon the sides of the 40 INFORMATION AND ADVICE valleys, all offer strong inducements to those in search of desirable locations here to establish themselves. The original association that formed this settlement consisted of a small number of individuals, mostly from New England. These afterwards were joined by another party from Ohio, who at first located a few miles west of Fort Riley, but were induced to abandon that site and remove here, by the liberal offers made them. Manhattan is 75 miles west of Lawrence, 125 miles from Kanzas city ; 15 miles E. of Fort Riley. This was, the past year, and probably will be for many years to come, a good market for all the produce that may be for sale, inasmuch as being a distributing post, it will have need of large supplies. The Commissary con- tracted the past season for 1200 tons of hay, paying for the same $7 per ton on the ground, $12 delivered at the Fort. Land yields from three to four tons to the acre, and much of the grass was to be had for the cutting. He also agreed to take all the corn procurable at $1.50 per bushel. The town and suburbs embrace about 1400 acres, which have been regularly platted. The main street is 100 feet, and the others 60 feet wide. Several parks or squares have been laid out in different sections of the town. The house lots are fifty feet front, by one hundred and fifty in depth. In one of the parks, a public well had just been completed when the writer was there. At twenty-six feet below the surface, a peat-bed, between layers of clay, was struck, and a foot deeper, the remnants of the trunk of a tree. Tusks and bones of supposed extinct animals have been dug up in the vicinity, as also above Fort Riley. Manhattan has the Kanzas River on the south, and the Big Blue on the east; the latter empties into the former near the town ; the Kanzas is a muddy stream, but the Blue is filled with clear, pure water. From Blue Mont, at the north, a splendid view may be had of the town, the rivers, and the neighboring region. By a circuitous bend of the Kanzas, an extensive TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 41 peninsula has been formed south of the town, which is admirably calculated ' for a stock farm; and by a bend of the Blue, first to the west and then to the south, aided by the Kanzas River, another peninsula is formed east of the town, bounded on the north and west by the Blue, and on the south by the Kanzas. Here, for a long period, was the head quarters of the Kaw Indians, and so continued to be until 1840, when by a sudden rise of the river, an inundation was caused, resulting in the loss of many lives, and the destruction of much property; on account of which the place was abandoned. The Settlement contains a large structure as a Town Hall, twenty Cincinnati built houses, and others of "domestic manufacture," a Saw Mill, and a Grist Mill. The soil in the town is eight feet deep. In the imme- diate vicinity are many beautiful farms ; as well as numerous prairie and wood claims, yet untaken. With- in 30 miles there is woodland, in tracts of one thousand acres. On the route thither, the writer passed through tall, thick grass, which ot\en completely hid from sight both horse and rider, and the latter could only with much difficulty, make any progress. Within a circuit of five miles, it is estimated there are at least six hun- dred inhabitants. Some of the finest farm claims in the Territory are to be found in this section, and particularly on Wild Cat creek, in the valley of the Big Blue, and on Cedar Creek and other of the tributaries of the Blue. The earliest settler here was Hon. Mr. Houston, who located in this region when no other than Indians were round about. He is a highly intelligent, strong-minded, clear headed, active and industrious person, who would be an accession to any place. Among the earliest who migrated from the E., and here selected a local habitation, was the Rev. I. T. Goodnow, a Teacher of repute, formerly the Principal of an Academy in E. Greenwich, R. I. In a letter by him written last Spring, respecting this place, he says: 4* 42 INFORMATION AND ADAICE " A City Association consisting of thirty-five persona has been formed at the junction of the Big Blue and Kanzas rivers. If pro- perly luanagad, and filled up with the same kind of men who are now here, it is destined to sway a large influence in the afiairs of this Territory. " Never have I seen a site possessing so many natural advantages — the beautiful with the practical — as this. It is situated at the base and between two high bluffi, one and a half miles apart. It is a beautiful plain extending from both rivers, and rising grudually into high lands between the two bluffs. The plain furnishes an excellent chance for stores and business, and the highlands for private resi- dences. The material for building is abundant in the shape of lime- stone in the bluffs. The surrounding country for a great distance is rich with sufficient timber for building purposes for years. The landings upon both rivers are good ; and the military road from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Ililey, and the Central Railroad to the Pacific must both pass through the place, as the great natural highway pointed out by the finger of Omnipotence. " The country around is filling up with the right kind of settlers. The distance from the borders is such, 130 miles, and the journey has been so trying, that we get the wheat, while the chaft'of emigration blows aAvay, or does not reach us. We still have fine claims open near us ; but we particularly need men of capital and business tact to give their entire attention to city affairs. The present occupants care more for their farm claims than city interests ; hence the fine oppor- tunity for tradesmen, &c. " It is a great country, and multitudes are flocking in ; yet ' still there is room.' Here is a field to labor, worthy of the most talented, the best of men. But we must have men, not afraid of hard work, willing to rough it. ' Where there is a will, there is a way- ' Though confined to tlie shade, the school-room, for the last eighteen years, I find myself a match in hardship and endurance, for the strongest, most robust men." The writer had the pleasure of tarrying a short time with Mr. Goodnow. and his farm bore indubitable evi- dence that it was under the control of no idler. His corn appeared to have been subjected by him to the process that young ideas formerly were, and had in consequence learned to shoot ; for it stood 12 and 14 feet high ; and corn from tJds year's seed, 3 feet high ; pumpkins and water melon vines, al^ from this year's seed, were going ahead rapidly. Mr. L. observed that corn, without planting would yield 20 to 30 bushels to the acre ; on the sod, 40 to 50 bushels ; and the second year from 75 to 100 bushels. With such men as the two named, and their asso- FOR KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 43 ciatcs T)r. Hunting, Messrs. Pifer and Thurston, the - Rev. Messrs. Dennison, Blood, Lovejoy and others, this Place cinnot but prove prosperous. Hampden.— This is situated fifty miles due South of Lawrence, on the Neosho river, near the great crossing of the Indian trail, which leads S. from Fort Leaven- worth, and extends across to Wolf Creek. It was first "settled upon" by a company of ninety individuals, chictly from Hampden Co., Mass. ; hence its name. They- commenced operations on the 27th. of April, 1855. One of the residents, under date of July 18th. says : '' I have a store where I keep most of the neces- saries of life, for sale at fair prices. I have ox-teams leaviwg here every Monday for Kanzas City, and also returning leave Kanzas every Monday, carrying freight for $1,25 pr. hundred, and passengers for $5, including board. We have good covered waggons, and fnrnish camp utensils, provisions and blankets, and shall try to make travellers as comfortable as possible. The teams always carry the mails with them. Passengers wishing to come will do well to apply Saturday morning, as the teams will "usually leave Kanzas City on Saturday, and come out in the evening on to the Prairie, and there spend the Sabbath. We feel great need of a Physi- cian. We have the gospel preached to us, and our people in general feel quite contented, and would not leave Hampden for any other place in the world." Persons who may be going there without a guide, should take the Santa Fe road to Black Jack, thence to the General Agency, and from there by the head of Long Creek to the point of destination. The Company originally selected a site one mile wide, and two long, on the high lands between the Neosho river and Wolf creek, for a town ; around this is located a township six miles square, through the entire length of which the streams above mentioned pass, on their way to the Arkansas. At this Settlement an excellent Saw-mill has recent- ly been erected of a sufficient capacity to furnish all the lumber at present required. 44 INFORMATION AND ADVICE OsAWATOMiE. — This town "is situated upon the Osage river, about one hundred miles from its source, in the midst of a growing country, unequalled in the character of its soil and climate — is connected with Kanzas City, Mo., by two excellent lines of stages, and at high water with St. Louis by the river. Possessing a steam Saw Mill, lately erected at the cost of $12,000, and with other improvements of a similar nature in progress, this town seems to be the centre around which the wealth and energy of that section is gathering." The site was selected by Samuel C. Pomeroy, Esq., in 1855 ; it was surveyed and platted by A. D. Searl, of Lawrence, and under the judicious management of O. C. Brown, who has the spirit of go-ahead-ativeness largely developed, it is rapidly increasing in size, num- bers, and influence. A newspaper is about being pub- lished, and an Academy for teaching the ordinary, the higher, and the ornamental branches of Education will soon be established there. It has a good house of en- tertainment, the best as regards ''comforts" in the Territory; a blacksmith's shop, and several stores. It is in a section that is said to be more heavily timbered than any other in the Territory. In addition to the ordinary forest trees, red cedar and sugar maple are here found. It is located in the forks of the Osage, between the Mara is de Cygnes and the Polawatomie branches. It is 50 miles from Kanzas City, Mo., and the same dis- tance from Lawrence, K. T.; the three places forming a triangle. The name is Yankee Indian, derived from Osage and Potawatomie. A writer under the signature of Old Settler, says: "this Place is located on the Osage, one mile above its junction with Potawatomie creek. For three miles their course is but about one mile apart, and the divide gets up so high as to overlook the heavily timbered bottoms of the two rivers and their branches. Upon this high Prairie, skirted on each side with oak openings and ridges, lies half of the town site TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 45 of Osawatomie. The other portion is sixty feet above the bed of the rivet. Here there is a great abundance of timber of the best quality, limestone, coal, brick, clay, 6oC. Already houses of good style are built. For some months regular religious services, conducted by Rev. Mr. Adair, Congregationalist, and Mr. Finch of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and supplies from outside by the Baptist clergy have been enjoyed there. A Sunday School has also been in operation, The inhabitants are from almost every State in the Union ; but the town was commenced and is carried on chiefly by New Yorkers, Eastern, and Western men. A deep cut is made in the banks of the streams for the cross- ings ; and a ferry-boat has been placed upon the Osage. I will close this brief letter by saying that the people in these parts came here to stay. They are pleased with the climate, soil and country, and nothing seems to trouble them but the fact that they are at present deprived of their political rights." Leavenworth. — This is situated on the same range of hills with, and three miles S. of. Fort Leavenworth, and is secured by a rock bound bluff. Its extent along the river is one mile. The claims, on which the town is situated, were located June 11th. 1854. The Asso- ciation was formed on the 13th. with thirty-two original members, afterwards increased to over one hundred. The town was divided into one hundred and seventy- five shares. It is handsomely laid out in blocks, with streets running in parallel lines N. and S., and E. and W. The first building was completed and occupied Sep- tember 15th. 1854 ; now, Jan. 1856, there are three hundred and seven buildings, including stores, groceries and boarding houses, two well furnished livery stables, and a saw-mill, the receipts from which, clear of all expenses, are said to be 200 per cent. Some of the mercantile houses, according to report, dispose of from $30,000 to $40,000 worth of goods of various descrip- tions. The number of inhabitants are about fifteen hundred. 46 INFORMATION AND ADVICE The Methodist Church South, and the Northern Methodists, Old School Presbyterians, Baptists, Luther- ans, and Catholics hold regular worship here. There were two newspapers printed here; viz., the Territorial Register^ which, a few months since, was violently taken possession of, and thrown into the river, on ac- count of its too liberal principles, and the Kanzas Weekly Herald, a strong pro-slavery print, which we presume still is in operation. Leavenworth commands the trade of the surrounding region for some distance. It is said to hold out great inducements to the merchant, mechanic, and poor man. This site has been supposed to be within the Indian reserve, and therefore immigration to it has not been recommended ; the question is not yet satisfactorily de- cided ; though as it is publicly announced that there are $13,000 in the Treasury, to meet any liability in procuring a title, it is probable, whether in or out of the Reserve, those now in possession, will retain it. Council City. — For the following notice of Council City, we are indebted to a gentleman for whom we have great regard, and who is amply qualified to judge in the case. He says, " This place was located under the auspices of the American Set- tlement Company of the City of New York. It is located in the circle formed by the Switzler and Dragoon Creeks. This circle is made by the general course of these Creeks, much after the shape of the arms when the hands are brought together; the widest place being at the elbows. The confluence of these streams is al)out eight mih's beloAv their affluence. The City Site is about the centre on a beautiful and inclining plane, and perhaps is not surpassed for eligibility for a town, in the Territory. The great 'Sante Fe Road,' passes through very nearly the centre. East and West; and is intended to pass directly through the City 8ite. Council City is about 90 miles west of Kanzas City, Mo.; forty miles South-West from Lawrence ; twenty miles South of Topcka and the Kanzas River ; sixty-five miles South-East from Fort Riley ; forty miles East from Council Grove, and equi distant from the Northern and Southern lines of the Territory. It has good water, both from springs and wells ; the average depth of the wells are about twenty feet. Coal of a good quality is found in great abundance, cropping out on the banks of the creeks. A good breadth of tiuabor linos these streams, varying in width from TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 47 half to U "ii^c« 5 generally hard timber, cedar, and the black walnut, the latter grows large ; often three feet across at the butt. It is computed that there is from six to eight thousand acres of tim- ber in a radius of four or six miles. The best of hme stone quarries abound, laying up to the surface, and quarried out at a small ex- pense, suitable for buildings, lime, or fence. There has also been a marble quarry discovered within eight or ten miles of tiiis city, said to be very beautiful and abundant. It is believed the only marble that has been as yet discovered in the Territory. This of itself would be suiScieut to claim the Capitol buildings at this point. I must not be understood as putting in a special plea for this city as entitled to the Capitol of the new State, that must ere long come forth from the occidental settlement of this wild, but most lovely country. Like most of the new towns that have been laid off, it is sur- rounded by a very large and rich agricultural district, with gentle ■rolling, undulating prj^iries. There is a population at this point, in a circuit of six miles, of about one thousand. And affording still great inducements for set- tlers wishing either Country or Town investments. The inhabitants composing this settlement are mostly from the Eastern States, and of a moral and intelligent character." One of the most recently founded Free State Settle- ments is that of Millard, respecting which the follow- ing statement has been furnished us : — *' Millard — The site of Millard was selected by a Compaijy from Cincinnati, Ohio, and named in honor of Capt. David Millard, one of the early steamboat pioneers, who explored and ascended the River with the Steamer ' Hartford,' in the summer of 1855. The town is situated upon a gentle slope in the forks of the Kanzas River, adjoining the U. S. Military Re- servation, near Fort Riley, in the midst of a beautiful and fertile country, and is the highest navigable point on the River. It is 140 miles from Kanzas City, 130 from Leavenworth, and 100 miles from Lawrence. The overland route, and U. S. Military roads to Sante Fe and California, and the Utah and Oregon trails, pass directly through the town. In consequence of this great inland traffic, all kinds of produce bring high prices, with an increasing de- mand. The Fort, also, affords an excellent market for all the products of the farmer. 48 INFORMATION AND ADVICE The prices of produce, at this point, are not affected by competition from Missouri. The Millard Association, with a view of supplying, with manufactured articles, the outfitting trade of the interior, and the vast travel across the barren wastes of Western Kanzas, was incorporated October 3d. 1855, under the name of ' The Cincinnati and Kanzas Man- ufacturing Company,' with an authorized capital of $250,000, and will carry out its design by establishing manufactories, and the encouragement of all kinds of mechanics. Its attention, however, will first be directed to fur- nishing Mills and other convenien(*es for the use of settlers, in the vicinity. The disadvantages often experienced by settlers in a new country of being deprived for a long time of schools, churches, &c., will be obviated, as there will soon be here all the privileges of an old and densely populated country. There are many desirable claims yet open near by, and to the farmer, merchant, and mechanic, this point offers unusual inducements. Timber, and fine building stone abound in the vicinity, as, also, all the material for concrete houses, which is easily and cheaply ob- tained. The Osage Orange hedge for fencing is adapted to the soil and climate, and can be grown at a trifling expense. A railroad from Fort Leavenworth on the Missouri River to Fort Riley is already projected, and will soon be built ; and to obtain suitable grounds ior depots, shops, (fcc, must go through the reservation, to the town. The Pacific Railroad, now open from St. Louis to Jefferson City, will be completed into Kanzas in a few years ; passing up the south side of the River through Kanzas City and Lawrence, and along the divides, crossing the River at the confluence of the Smoky Hill and Republican forks. The terminus of this great enterprise will probably TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 49 be for many years somewhere in this vicinity, near the western limit of the fertile domain, before crossing the barren wastes to the smiling borders of the Pacific." German Settlement. — This is sitnated on Upper Mill Creek. It consisted in October last of abont fifty claimants, most of whom had planted crops of corn and potatoes. According to Mr. Hohenick, the entire popu- lation are pleased with the country, thinking it equal in fertility to any land in the Union. He reports excellent water-power for mills, and a good supply of timber. The signs of bituminous coal are good, and he says that when the veins are opened, there will be sufficient for extensive manufacturing operations. We would call the attention of German immigrants to this location, believing, from our own personal know- ledge of the neighboring region, that it is a highly ad- vantageous one. We are desirous of giving some account of the numer- ous other Free State settlements, as well as a more complete one of those herein referred to; but we are not now so well prepared as we wish to be for the pur- pose. It is our intention to give a somewhat minute description hereafter, if some good friends at each place will aid us in collecting the requisite materials. The inquiry may be made, to which of the above- named settlements does the Company give a prefer- ence ? To which would they advise settlers to direct their course ? We answer, the Company neither persuades persons to go to, nor dissuades them from settling at, either ; each has its advantages, each its peculiarities ; and whatever might be the opinion of the Company, every individuul would or ought to select the one or the other, or avoid all, as his own interest dictates. The Company, it should he distinctly understood, is sending to Kanzas ; it knows neither North, South, East^ nor West, to the exclusion of the remainder ; it is desir- ous of seeing the whole peopled with good men and true, who will maintain their own rights, and resj)ect those of others ; who, whilst they resolutely resist being 5 50 INFORMATION AND ADVICE encroached upon by the lawless and reckless, whence- soever they may come, will carefully refrain from com- mitting unjust acts, or uttering harsh epithets against others, simply for a difFerence of opinion ; who, save in extreme cases, will rely for victory upon the teachings of the Bible and instructions of the Ballot-box, instead of the influence of the bottle and destructiveness of the musket ; discarding the bottle altogether, and reserving the musket as a dernier resort. Religion and Education. — At Lawrence there are several regularly constituted Religious Societies of vari- ous denominations ; viz : Congregationalists, Unitarians, Methodists, Baptists, and United Brethren. A free school is established there, in which the ordinary branches are taught, and measures are in train to found an Academy for instruction in the higher branches. An Athenaeum has also been instituted ; by members of which, discus- sions are regularly held, and lectures delivered. Con- nected with this Institution is a Public Library. Sun- day School Libraries also exist there. AH of these means, for securing and elevating the mental and moral condition of the community, have made considerable advancement, and will soon be in full operation at Topeka^ and the other settlements of the Company. The powerful influence for good exerted by these, is clearly manifest. The writer met many on their way, in pursuit of a new home, who wished to be directed where they could find a Yankee settlement ; giving as a reason for the inquiry, that they Avished to locate near one, being thus sure of a school for their children, and of religious services on the Sabbath. In behalf of each and all, the Secretary earnestly solicits contributions in money or books ; the former he will endeavor judiciously to convert into books ; of the latter, almost every one has more or less, which, having done their mission here, ivill still prove of exceeding value, for a similar purpose, in our new settlements. If the Secretary'' s efforts are approved and seconded by our friends here, he will be enabled to transmit to the TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 51: Territory^ hij every Pariy^ a package^ the contents of which may prove of incalculable importance to our friends there. Game. — Game is quite abundant in some sections of the Territory, lliough but little occurs in others. Sev- eral varieties of squirrels, ducks, geese, turkies, prairie hens, ifcc, were seen by the writer. In the Neosho val- ley, and other parts, deer are found. Herds of buflalo were within sight from Fort Riley, while the writer was in that section, although the present regular range of this animal, which is likely soon to become extinct, is farther W. and N. W. The streams abound with gar, buffalo, whitefish, and a large variety of others. Arms. — Should they be taken along for protection against Indians, for hunting, &c. ? Our opinion of the red man has already been given ; viz : as a general rule, if treated kindly and met as a man, he will behave like a man ; but if treated like a wild beast, you must ex- pect him to conduct like one. Still, as impositions are constantly being practised on him, and trespasses com- mitted upon his rights, by vagabonds of our own race — of instances of which we ourselves have had repeated cognizance = — it is not impossible, though hardly proba- ble, that some roving bands from the distant plains, or fastnesses of the Rocky Mountains, may, under exas- peration, make their appearance on the borders ; and as " an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," and ''discretion is the better part of valor," it would be well for all to go prepared for such emergencie-s. Besides, it would be somewhat vexatious to a hungry man (and one who intends to be a pioneer m,ust expect often to he a-hungcred) to see game fleeting by him, which might liave furnished him many a good meal, and be none the better for it, because, presuming there was no use for powder and ball, he went to his new home without them. Thus did not the hardy pioneers of the days of our ancestors. Moreover, wolves, rat- tlesnakes, and other reptiles of various forms, will be 52 INFORMATION AND ADVICE occasionally encountered, or be detected around the claims ; and although the former, like many enemies in human shape, who make much noise, are great cowards, and seldom attack one, excepting when they are sure of an advantage, it is advisable to be prepared to give them a warm reception. Whether there may be any other use for arms, the writer, perhaps, is not qualified to judge ; but, in accord- ance with the old Latin maxim, that it is permitted to be taught by an enemy, he thinks it sufficient, and will probably be perfectly satisfactory to inquirers, to adduce the opinion of the Hon. David R. Atchison, on this point. In a Letter of very recent date, to a gentleman at the South, he says : '' Let your youn^ men come forth to Missouri and Kanzas ! Let them come well armed, with money enough to support them for twelve months, and deter- mined to see this thing out! One hundred true fnen will be an acquisition ! The inore the better.''^ " We want men — armed men. SVe want money; not for ourselves, but to support our friends who may come from a distanced *' Let your young men come on in squads, as fast as they can be raised^ well armed. We want nojie but true Tnen.^^ Such is the advice of one wha, we are told, '• has oc- cupied, for a quarter of a century at least, an eminently high position among the statesmen of the Union, and who, in the Senate of -the United States, over which he presided with so much satisfaction to that body, fairly earned a reputation of which few can boast " The advice of such an one, on the present subject of inquiry, it would ill become us to gainsay. We cannot refrain from quoting this gentleman's con- cluding sentiment, and most cordially reiterating his hope : "TT^e hope that there will be an uprising of tJie people in every county and town in the State, and that while our young men ivill in hundreds respond to the call of TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 53 Ka?izaSj the old and the weallJiy will give that aid, ivhich if icitlihcld ivill keep from '• there' many a daunt- less spirit, brave hearty and strong arm.'''* Size of Parties. — Parties, for their own comfort and convenience, shonld not exceed one hundred persons ; and a larger number the Company does not advise to go at once ; neither is there a necessity for it, as at least weekly opportunities will be furnished ; indeed, one- half that number would be still better. The capacity and accommodations of the Missouri river Boats vary ; but a certain ji umber can be well cared for ; and the Company discountenances any unreasonable crowding on board of those Boats ; it possesses not the magic power, as some unreasonably think, of enlarging the Boats' capacity to correspond with a Party's wants, or desires. The Agents therefore are enjoined against countenancing or permitting, so far as they can exercise a control, one over the proper number, from taking pas- sage in any Boat ; if a contrary course be persisted in, however, it must be at the risk of those ivho will not be advised ; and not on the responsibility of the Company. As nevertheless there will unquestionably be for some time a great rush, and Parties will be very large, not- withstanding the advice of the Company, every one who goes must be content to submit to various inconven- iences, more especially in the Boats and at the Houses of Entertainment where they may temporarily stop. Those who go out early in the Spring will of course meet with more annoyance than those who leave later; but, on the other hand, they will have a greater choice as regards location, and will sooner enjoy the right of exercising the glorious privileges of freemen ; a matter of great moment to them^ and of vast 7noment to all who may subsequently become citizens of the Territory. Temporary Organizations. — Parties are advised to pursue the course of those who went out last season, and form on the route, (whilst Steamboating it up from St. Louis, or previously,) some temporary organization for the benefit of all. 5* 54 INFORMATION AND ADVICE By doing this, and appointing committees to act for all, there will be little danger, of what many fear, that undue advantages will be taken of them by cattle and produce dealers at Kanzas City and elsewhere. Should impositions be attempted, by deputing certain individ- uals of shrewdness and good judgment to go to the towns a little removed from the river borders and make the requisite purchases, sellers will soon find it for their interest to deal justly and act uprightly ; and none but fair prices will be demanded. In these cases, as in all others of doubt, take counsel of the Coinpany's Agents ; as your and their interests are not antagonistic. Modes of Communication. — All Letters sent to the care of Samuel C. Pomeroy, Esq., Kanzas City, Mo., will be forwarded, as opportunies offer, to the individ- ual's address. Those intended for Lawrence, Topeka, or Leavenworth. K. T., may be addressed direct, as a Post Office has been established at each of these Places. In cases requiring more speedy communication, advan- tage can be taken of the Telegraph, as an Office is es- tablished at Kanzas City, by means of which intelli- gence may be speedily conveyed to, or received from, all prominent points throughout New England, the Western, Middle, and Southern States. Company's Aid. — To correct an error that exten- sively prevails, it is well to slate, what may be inferred from our introductory remarks, that the Company fur- nishes no direct pecuniary aid to individi^als. Its main objects are not eleemosynary or charitable, in the ordi- nary acceptation of the word, — but philanthropic. It has not the means to assist, nor, had it, could its officers devote the requisite time to investigating the merits of individual cases ; these must be left to the care of the local auxiliary Leagues, which are recommended, if they extend a helping hand, to aid, not by gift, but by loan. The Company's means have been, and if continued to them, will be, employed to encourage the formation of settlements, and to advance the prosperity and pro- TO KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 55 mote the welfare of the various communities that may- be established ; in a word, to make, as far and as fast as possible, each place, a settlement of freemen, by in- troducing such conveniences, founding and encouraging such institutions and establishments, as now charac- terize New England homes, and such as the true prin- ciples of Freedom and the pure spirit of Liberty invari- bly show are so essential to the perpetuity of good Governments, and prove absolutely requisite for securing and sustaining the greatest good of the greatest number. The Company deals with persons as constituting Communities ; the Auxiliary Societies or local Leagues deal with thmn in their individual capacities. Sources of Information. Newspapers. — Those who are desirous of procuring a large amount of infor- mation at a small expense, and of being kept posted up on Territorial affairs, should subscribe to the Kanzas Herald of Freedom, published weekly at Lawrence, K. T. ; the first volume, just completed, contains a greater quantity of material of a practical character than is elsewhere to be found. Ttie second volume was commenced, on the ninth of the present month, (Feb.) this, therefore is a favorable time for subscribing. By sending address and subscription, ($2,) to the Secretary, the Paper will in due time be forwarded. We believe " The F\-ee State " is also still continued at Lawrence. At Topeka are published '* The Kanzas Tribune," and " The Kanzas P^-eeman ; " at Osawato- mie, " The Osawatomie Times." Books. — Rev. Edward E. Hale, of Worcester, Mass., has prepared a work entitled " Kanzas and Nebraska," and Rev. O. Boynton, of Cincinnati, another, styled "Journey through Kanzas;" both of these deserve a perusal. Price of each in paper covers, 50 cts. ,* in cloth binding, 75 cts. Maps. — No satisfactory Map has as yet appeared; neither can an accurate one be constructed until the Territory has been surveyed. A Map, which may an- swer for general purposes, although it presents many 56 INFORMATION AND ADVICE inaccuracies, has been published by J. H. Colton, New- York ; price 25 cents. Another one, which we have not seen, but judge to be at least as good, from the character of the gentleman by whom it was constructed, Lieut. S. Eastman, U, S. A., has been more recently issued by a Philadelphia house. Plans. — A Plan of Lawrence has been published from actual survey; price, mounted and varnished, $1,25; in sheets, on drawing paper, 75 cents ; on bank note paper, suitable for mailiiig, 50 cents. Any of the preceding may be had by addressing the Secretary, postage paid, inclosing the price, (and If to be transmitted by mail, the amount of additional cost,) in current money or postage stamps. APPENDIX. Plats have been published of Osawatomic, of Millard, and, we understand, of Manhattan — perhaps also of other of the Settlements ; of this, however, we have no knowledge. SuRVEYor^, General's Office. — The President has or- dered this to be removed from Wj^andot to Lecompton. Freight. — For general directions see p. 6. When sent by the Great Western Railroad route, Packages should be marked as follows, viz. : G. W. R. I [Owner's name here.] Time. Kanzas City, Mo. via. Joliet. Care of F. A. Hunt & Co., No. 19, Levee, St. Louis. Bills of Lading for this route will be furnished at No. 21 State Street. Guarantied time, 20 days. Present rates, $2.45 per 100 lbs. Post Offices. — Post Offices have been established at the following settlements ; and Post Routes were to be in opera- tion to them on and after January 1st. 1856, viz. : Big Springs, Blanton, Council City, Easton, Grasshopper Falls, Juniata, Lawrence, Leavenworth City, Manhattan, Ocena, Osawatomic, Topeka, Waubonse. KANZAS IMMIGRANTS. 57 Diet. — Persons cannot be too cautious in regard to tins, more especially whilst on the Boats of the Western Rivers. The style of living differs so essentially from that to which most have been accustomed, and there is so much to tempt end pamper the appetite, that very few can indulge freely, without suffering some inconvenience, and often very serious consequences. The only prudent, as well as the safest course, is to select the plainest food, cooked in the simplest manner. Labor. — We think there will be considerable demand for most kinds of labor the present year, at the various Settle- ments ; certainly at Lawrence and Topeka, Mdiere many buildings, private and public, will be erected. Wages. — These of course must vary much with the wants of the employer, and the qualifications of the employee. At Fort Riley, where Government the past year has been erect- ing extensive stables, and other buildings, giving employ- ment to many hundreds of mechanics and laboring men, the rates when the writer was there in September last were as follows, viz. : Common laborers received 81,50 per day and board. Ordinary Masons ^2,40 per day and board, Master Masons and Master Lime Burners $3,00 per day and board, Wood Choppers, 81,25 per day and board. Teamsters, $1,00 per day, the year round, and board ; they having nothing to do with loading and unloading of the teams. CD CO o o O 00 CZ) crq 3 y s- 1— '• ta o (S". 1 &I m •tJ a 1 ^ f:^ CD o tr^