GROUP OF ESKIMO MEN AND BOYS, TOGIAK RIVER, ALASKA. HELIOTYPE PRINTING CO. BOSTON GROUP OF ESKIMO GIRLS, TOGIAK RIVER, ALASKA. Photoffraphed by Messrs. Hartmann it Weinland . REPORT ON EDUCATION m ALASKA, MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS, SHELDON JACKSON, GENERAL AGENT OF EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 18 8 6. WASHINGTON: GOVEENMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1886. 7018 AL V '^ LETTER THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR, TRANSMITTING, In response to Senate resolution, February 15, report of Sheldon Jackson on education in Alaska. March 4, 188G. — Referred to the Committee on Territories and ordered to be printed. Department of the Interior, Washington, March 3, 1886. Sir : In response to Senate resolution of the 15th ultimo, I have the honor to transmit herewith the report of Sheldon Jackson on education in Alaska. Very respectfully, L. Q. C. LAMAR, Secretary. The President pro tempore of the Senate. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. Office of General Agent of Education in Alaska, Sitka, Alaska, February 1, 1886. Sir : In submitting my preliminary report as general agent of edu- cation in Alaska, I propose to take a brief survey of the country, its^ extent, physical characteristics, climate, and people. In no other way can a just estimate be formed of the peculiar difficulties under which the school work in Alaska must be conducted. In no other way can we be impressed with the peculiar needs of the field to which our sys- tem must be adapted in order to secure the highest success. Section 13 of the organic act providing a civil government for Alaska declares (see Appendix B) — That the Secretary of the Interior shall make needful and proper provision for the education of the children of school age in the Territory of Alaska, without reference to race, until such time as permanent provision shall be made for the same, and the sum of $25,000, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby appropriated for this purpose. This contemplates the establishment in Alaska of the public-school system of the States. To inaugurate such a system in Dakota or Montana with the assistance of railways and stage lines is one thing ; to do the same thing in Alaska, with its vast area, not only without public conveyances, except a monthly steamer in the southeastern corner, but without roads and largely without any means of transportation save the uncomfortable log canoes and skin bidarkas of the natives, is another and quite different thing. And yet the establishment of schools in Alaska will require tens of thousands of miles of travel — a fact which becomes obvious on a care- ful survej' of the field. AREA. Very few even of the more intelligent portion of American citizens comprehend its extent and physical characteristics. To say that Alaska contains 580,107 square miles gives no adequate conception of its great size. That impression is better secured by a series of relative comparisons. For instance, from extreme north to south is 1,400 miles in an air line, or as far as from Maine to Florida ; and from its eastern boundary to the end of the Aleutian Islands is 2,200 miles in an air line, or as far as from Washington to California. The island of Attu, at the end of the Aleutian chain, is as far west of San Francisco as Maine is east ; so that between the extreme eastern and western sections of the United States San Francisco is the great central city. 5 6 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. Or take another basis of comparison : Alaska is as large as all the New England and Middle States, together with Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Kentucky, and Tennessee combined, or as large as all the United States east of the Mississii)pi River and north Of Georgia and the Carolinas, or nearly one sixth of the entire area of the United States. It has a coast line of 18,211 miles, or nearly twice as many as the Atlantic and Pacific coast lines of the ren)aining portion of the United States. Commencing at the north shore of Dixon Inlet, in latitude 54° 40', the coast sweeps in a long regular curve north and west to the entrance of Prince William Sound, a distance of 550 miles, thence 725 miles south and west to Unimak Pass, at the end of the Aliaska Peninsula. From this pass the Aleutian chain of islands sweeps 1,075 miles in a long curve almost to Asia, the dividing line between Russia and the United States being the meridian of 193*^ west longitude. North of Unimak Pass the coast forms a zigzag line to Point Barrow, on the Arctic Ocean, and thence south of east to the boundary. ISLANDS. Alaska is a great island region, having off its southeastern coast a large archipelago. The 732 miles of latitude from Puget Sound to the head of Lynn Canal contain a remarkable stretch of inland ocean navi- gation, noted for its bold shores, deep water, numerous channels, in- numerable bays and harbors, abundance of fuel and fresh water, and shelter from the swells of the ocean. The southern portion of this great archipelago is in Washington Ter- ritory, the central portion in British Columbia, and the northern por- tion in Alaska. The portion in Alaska has been named the Alexander Archipelago. It is about 300 miles north and south and 80 miles wide, and is variously estimated to contain from 1,000 to 5,000 separate islands, 1,100 of which have been marked on the charts. The aggregate area of these islands is 14,142 square miles. Six hundred miles to the westward is the Kadiak group, aggregating an area of 5,676 miles ; then the Shumagin group, containing 1,031 square miles ; and the Aleutian chain, with an area of 6,391 square miles. To the northward is the Pribiloff" group (Seal Islands), contain- ing, with the other islands in Bering Sea, 3,963 square miles. The total area of the islands of Alaska is 31,205 square miles, which would make a State as large as the great State of Maine. MOUNTAINS AND VOLCANOES. Alaska is the region of the highest mountain peaks in the United States. The Coast Range of California and the Rockj' Mountain Range of Colorado and Montana iinite to form the Alaskan Mountains. This range, instead of continuing northward to the Arctic Ocean, as the old atlases represent, turns to the southward, at the upper Ramparts of the Yukon, extends through and forms the Aliaska Peninsula, and then gradually sinks into the Pacific Ocean, leaving only the highest peaks visible above the water. These peaks form the Aleutian chain of islands. The islands decrease in size, height, and frequency, as the mountain range sinks lower into the ocean. Unimak, the most eastern of the chain, has that magnificent volcano Shishaldin, 9,000 feet high ; then Unalashka, 5,691 feet; next Atka, 4,.S52 feet; then Kyska, 3,700 feet; and Attu, the most western of the group, only 3,084 feet high. In the Aliaskan Range are the highest peaks in the United States : EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 7 Mount Saint Elias, 19,500 feet high; Mount (3ook, 16,000 feet; Mount €rillon, 15,900 ; Mount Fairweather, 15,500 ; and numerous others. In addition to the Aliasl8-'60 a scliool building; was purchased. The annual reports of the trustees have (lisai)])eare(l, and tlieie is nothing to show the time when teaching coinnuMicecl. In ()<'tober, l.SG!), the council voted that the salary of tlie teacher should be 87.) per niontli in coin, and on March 1, 1871, it was ordered to be $LM ])er month, which evidently means that at the latter i)eriod the post commander withdrew the $50 per month which had been paid from army funds. On the 12th of August, 187J, permission was given the bishop of the Greek Church to teach the Kus- sian language one hour each day in the public school. During 1873 the school seems to have died out. In 1870 and 1880 another attempt was made to establish a school, which was taught by Mr. Alonzo E. Austin and Miss Etta Austin. In the winter of 1877 and 1878 I secured the appointment of Eev. John G. Brady for Sitka, and in April, 1878, a school was opened by Mr, Brady and Miss Fannie E. Kellogg. In December, through a com- bination of circumstances, it was discontinued. In the spring of 1880 Miss Olinda Austin was sent out from New York City, and commenced school April 5, in one of the rooms of the guard-house, with 103 children present. This number increased to 130, Then some of the parents applied for admission, but could not be received, as the room would not accommodate any more. Miss Austin received the support and substantial assistance of Cap- tain Beardslee, then in command of the U, S. S, Jamestown, who proved himself a warm friend of the enterprise. In July the school was moved to the old hospital building. In Xovember some of the boys applied to the teacher for permission to live in the school-house. At home, they alleged, there was so much drinking, talking, and carousing that they could not study. The teacher replied that she had no accommodations, bedding, or food for them. But they were so much in earnest that they said they would provide for themselves. Upon receiving permission, seven native boys, thirteen and fourteen years of age, bringing a blanket each, voluntarily left their homes and took up their abode in a vacant room of one of the Govern- ment bniUlings. Thus commenced the boarding department of the Sitka school. Soon other boys joined them. Capt. Henry Glass, who suc- ceeded Captain Beardslee in command of the U. S. S. Jamestown, from the first, with his officers, especially Lieut. F, M, Symonds, U. S. X., took a deep interest in the school. As he had opportunity he secured boys from distant tribes and placed them in the institution, until there were 27 boys in the boarding dei)artment. In February, 1881, Captain Glass established a rule compelling the attendance of the native children upon the day school, which was a move in the right direction and worked admirably. He first caused the native village to be cleaned up, ditches dug around each house for drainage, and the houses whitewashed. These sanitary regulations greatly less- ened the sickness and death rate among them. He ordered tlie houses to be numbered and an accurate census taken of the inmates, adults and children. He then caused a number of labels to be made of tin, one of which was tied around the neck of each child, with his or her number and the number of the house on it, so that if a child was found ou the street during school hours, the native policeman was under or- ders to take the number on the label and report it, or the teacher each day would report that such and such numbers from such houses were absent that day. The following morning the head man of the house to which the absentee belonged was summoned to appear and answer for 22 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. the child. If the chihi was willfully abseut, the head man was fined or imprisoned. A few cases of fine i)roved sufficient. As soon as the people found the captain in earnest tlie children were all in school. This ran the average attendance up to 230 and 250, the attendance one day reaching, with adults, 271. In April of that year Mr. Alonzo E. Austin was associated with his daughter in the school and Mrs. Austin appointed matron. In the winter of 1882 the school-house was burned, and the boys took refuge in an abandoned Government stable, which was fitted up for them. In the fall of 1882, after consultation with the collector of customs, the commander of the United States man-of-war, and the lead- ing citizens, I selected a new" location for the school outside of village limits and erected a two-and-a-half story building 100 by 50 feet in size. In 1884 the Girls' Boarding School at Fort Wrangell was removed to Sitka, and the united schools made a Government contract industrial and training school. The same season a second large building, 130 by 50 feet, was erected for the use of the school, and in March, 1885, there were 42 boys and 61 girls under training in this school. (See Appen- dix M.) ESTABLISHMENT OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS. On the 2d day of March, 1885, the honorable the Secretary of the Interior assigned the work of making provision for the education of the children in Alaska to the Bureau of Education. (See Appendix G.) It was a work of great magnitude, in a new and untried field, and with unknown difficulties. It was a work so unlike any other that the experience of the past in other Departments could not be the sole guide. It was a problem peculiar to itself, and must be worked out by and for itself. It covered an area of one-sixth of the United States. The schools to be established would be from 4,000 to 6,000 miles from headquarters at Washington, and from 100 to 1,000 miles from one another. And that in an inaccessible countrj^, only one small corner of which has any public means of intercommunication. The teachers of five schools in Southeastern Alaska would be able to receive a monthly mail; the larger number of the others could only receive a chance mail two or three times a year, and still others only one annually. It was to establish English schools among a people the larger portion of whom do not speak or understand the English language, the diffi- culties of which will be better appreciated if you conceive of an attempt being made to instruct the children of New York or Georgia in arith- metic, geography, and other common-school branches through the me- dium of Chinese teachers and text-books. Of the 36,000 people in Alaska, not over 2,000 speak the English tongue, and they are mainly in three settlements. It was to instruct a people, the greater portion of whom are uncivil- ized, who need to be taught sanitary regulations, the laws of health, imi^rovement of dwellings, better methods of housekeeping, cooking, and dressing, more remunerative forms of labor, honesty, chastity, the sacredness of the marriage relation, and everything that elevates man. So that, side by side with the usual school drill in reading, writing, and arithmetic, there is need of instruction for the girls in housekeeping, cooking, and gardening, in cutting, sewing, and mending; and for the boys in carpentering and other forms of wood working, boot and shoe making, and the various trades of civilization. It was to furnish educational advantages to a people, large classes . of whom are too ignorant to appreciate them, and who require some EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 23 form of pressure to oblige tlietu to keep their children in school regu- larly. It was a system of schools among a people, who, while in the m'ain only partially civilized, yet have a future before them as Ameri- can citizens. It was the establishment of schools in a region where not only the school-house but also the teacher's residence must be erected, and where a portion of the material must be transported from 1,500 to 4,500 miles, necessitating a corresponding increase in the school expenditure. It was the finding of properly qualified teachers, who, for a moderate salary, would be willing to exile themselves from all society, and some of them settle down in regions of arctic winters where they can hear from the outside world only once a year. To the magnitude of the work, and the special difliculties environing it, is still further added the complication arising from the lack of suffi- cient funds to carry it on, there being appropriated only $25,000 with which to commence it. GENERAL AGENT OF EDUCATION. From the nature and extent of the work it was at once apparent that it could not be efficiently carried on from the office at Washington alone, but required in addition an agent familiar with the country, and who should spend his summers on the field, determining the location of new schools, inspecting existing ones, and arranging with regard to build- ings, supplies, and teachers. Consequently on the 11th of April, 1885, the Secretary of the Interior directed the establishment of the office of " General Agent of Education in Alaska." (See Appendix D.) This action met with the hearty indorsement of the leading educa- tors of the United States, who for several years past have manifested an interest in the establishment of public schools in Alaska. (See Ap- pendix E.) SCHOOLS IN SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA. In Southeastern Alaska the establishment of schools, in comparison with the difficulties met in other sections of this land, was easy, as four of the seven schools can be reached monthly by the mail steamer. Further, schools had been kept at all these points but two, for several years by teachers in the employ of the Board of Home Missions of the Presbyterian Church. This missionary organization was the first of the American churches to enter that neglected land. Finding no schools, they established them side by side with their missions, proposing to fur- nish educational advantages until the General Government should be ready to do it. Therefore last fall, wherever the Government was ready to undertake the work in any village occupied by the Presbyterians, they turned over their schools to the Government. As the Presbyterians had a body of efficient teachers already on the ground, acclimated, expe- rienced in the work, more or less acquainted with the native language, and possessing the Confidence of the people, it was both more economi- cal to the Government and for the best interests of the schools that they should as far as possible be re-employed, which was done. Special requests having been received for an early inauguration of the public-school system in Sitka and Juneau, I gave them my first atten- tion. 24 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. OFFICIAL INTERFERENCE. At Sitka I met witb considerable annoyance and opposition from some of the liite officials stationed tliere. For reasons best known to them- selves, those officers directly or indirectly threw their official influence in opposition to the school and mission Wdrk. This commenced while I was superintendent of the industrial school at Sitka, and was continued after I resigned that position and accepted the Government agencj'. This opposition culminated on the 19th of August, 18iS5, at which date I went aboard the monthly mail steamer with school desks and furni- ture for the Government school at Wrangell, and with charts, maps, «&;c.,for the schools at Hoonah, Haines, Juneau, Wrangell, and Jack- son ; also with the papers and instructions necessary to set them iu operation early iu September. I was also expecting to visit Killisnoo and see what arrangements could be made for a school there. Just as the gang-plank was to be drawn in before leaving I was arrested by Deputy Marshal Sullivan, and with unnecessary rudeness hustled off the steamer. After the arrest I was locked up in a cell until the steamer was out of reach, when I was taken before the judge, arrange- ments were made for increasing my bonds to $3,200, and I was set free. As we have only one mail steamer a month they accomplished their pur- pose in detaining me at Sitka. Last spring District Attorney Haskett, through false representations to the grand jury, succeeded in securing four indictments against me for building fences and making other im- provements for the training school, on Government land it is true, but land which had been set apart for the school by Congress. The four in- dictments were for different stages of one and the same offense. If the alleged acts had really beeu committed the penalty is from $25 to $500. The bail was placed at the extreme limit, $500 for each case, accepted by the judge, and the trial set for the Il^ovember term. At the time of the sailing of the steamer Mr. Haskett secured from Judge McAllister a warrant for my arrest, requiring me to appear before the court and increase the amount of my bonds. This could have beeu done in ten minutes and I have been allowed to go about my ofticial duties. Although it was well known that I intended leaving on the steamer, the warrant was not issued until 9 o'clock a. m. on theda^^ the steamer sailed. Eveu then the serving of it was held back until 3 p. m., the hour the steamer sailed. The warrant required me to be taken be- fore the judge "forthwith," instead of which I was locked up in a cell. The feeling of indignation against both Mr. Haskett and Judge McAllis- ter over this last official outrage was very great. Russians, natives, and Americans alike condemned it in unmeasured terms. This was the end of their official power to hinder the school work, as the next mail steamer brought the news of their removal from office and the appointment of others in their stead, who are manifesting a very marked interest in the schools. The new district attorney. Col. M. D. Ball, gave early atten- tion to the indictments against me. Finding that the matter on which the four indictments for obstructing a road were based was not, under the laws of Oregon, a criminal offense, nor an indictable offense, but at most a misdemeanor, cognizable before a justice of the peace, and also finding that the obstruction in the one case was purely technical and iu the others an alteration of the road which came within the spirit of the law, he moved, at a meeting of the United States district court, Oc- tober 5, 1885, that the cases be dismissed, which was done. The affair V BUILDING rsKD BY U. S. PUBLIC SCHOOL, HAIXES, ALASKA. From a pliotouiaph by Kev. E. S. Willaid. BUILDING USED BY U. S. PUBLIC SCHOOL, SITKA, ALASKA From a sketrli liy Mr. Salomou Ripiusky. EDUCATION m ALASKA. 25 lias attracted so nuich attention that I inclose the record of the court.* (See Appendix K.) Previous to his removal from office, United States District Attorney Haskett, by means of persistent misrepresentations and the matter-of- course manner in which many persons sign petitions, secured a number of signatures to a petition asking for my removal. But after the ofticials who were active in the matter were removed from office by the President, causing the special pressure on the com- munit}- to cease, there was a reaction in public sentiment. Two i)rominent citizens who had signed the petition for my removal afterward offered to go on my bonds, and others apologized, explaining that at the time they diublic schools and leave all persons to the fullest exercise ot th.eir religious liberty. Assur- ances of their desire to co operate with the (xovernment in the schools have been received from the Episcopal, Moravian, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, and Congregational bodies. Interviews have also been held with the lepresentatives of the Koman Catholic body. Up to the present time, however, arraugemeiits have been effected and work com- menced only by the E[)iscopalians, Presbyterians, and Moravians. Co- operation with others is hoiked for during the coming season. NATIONAL AID TO EDUCATION AND ITS BEARING ON ALASKA. In view of the coming discussion in Congress of the "Blair bill," I deem it important to offer the following preliminary estimate respecting- the illiterate population of Alaska between the ages of 10 and 2b years, both inclusive, and to recite the considerations which have led me to the conclusion below set forth. Mr. Ivan Petroff"'s enumeration of the population of Alaska (page 33 of his special report, in United States Census of 1880, Vol. VIII) is as follows: Sivisiona. Total. White. Creole. Eskimo. ■ , . Atha Thlinget. Hydah. 3,094 6,870 8,911 2,451 4 352 3,094 is 3 82 34 293 ' 19 4 27fi 2,557 255 i 506 1,890 i Ku,skokwim \\l ' s' nsfi 479 917 ' 2,211 1 864 326 6,437 Southeastern Total :,. 7,748 230 788 33, 426 430 1,756 17, 617 2, 145 i 3, 927 6,763 788 Mr. Petroff does not discriminate between the sexes or the several ages of the population; but we may assume that the conditions as to sex do not differ materially from those existing in the adjacent "terri- tories and Arctic islands" belonging to the Dominion of Canada, where the British census of 1881 reported 28,113 males and 28,333 temales. The partial returns made by Kussiau ofiicials from 1818 to 18(31, quoted EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 35 iu Mr. Petrofif's paper, give nearly the same proportion of the sexes^ each being about half the population. The proportion of minors to adults, as understood by the officials of the United States census and by statistical wiiters of recent date ia this country, is not indicated by any of the statistics quated by Mr.. Petroff'. The nearest approach to such a distinction is that made in the partial census of 1839 by the Hudson Bay Company and quoted on pp. 30, 37 of :Mr. Petroff's report. The free natives thus reported numbered 4,121 "adults" and 2,439 ''children"; but the circumstances of that cen- sus indicate that stature, strength, and child-i>ro(lucing ca])acity may- have had Hjuch more to do with the assignment of many individuals to the "adults" rather than to the "children." I, for these reasons, venture to estiiuate the population of Alaska as to age by the enumeration of the population of Washington Territory,, the organized Territory nearest to Alaska, with the following result: Minors under 10. Territories. Minors, 10 to 20. | Adults, 21 and over. Number. Washington . Alaska 7.^ 116 ' 33,426 i 19, 396 8,631 Per cent. 25.8 Number. Per cent. Number. 15, .'■)o3 ) 6, 921 5 40, 167 17, 874 Per cent. In the year 1880 the condition of affairs was about as follows : The 430 whites mentioned iu Mr. Petroff's enumeration were fairly- instructed adults ; about 800 of the Creoles, or Russo- Alaskans, men- tioned were able to write, nearly all of these being adults. Of the Alaskan races 1 estimate that the number able to write was as follows: Aleuts, 500; Thlinget, 200; Hydah, 100; making 800 more such persons. There were, therefore, about 2,030 persons to be de- ducted from the estimated population ten or more years old, leaving 22,765 persons ten or more years old unable to write at that time. STATISTICS. SCHOOL AT JUNEAU. [Miss Marion B. Murphy, teacher.] Monthly attendance. Date. Total attendance. June, 1885 July, 1885 August, 1885 ... September, 1885 October, 18h5 . . . November, 1885 December, 1885. January, 1886 . . February, 1886 . March, 1886 April, 1886 May, 1886 Juiie, 1886 Average attendance. Boys. Girls. 40 II 23 18 12 18 16 22 15 51 39 41 35 41 28 43 29 43 • 31 28 24 21 20 15 17 Adults. 36 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. Statistics — Continued. SCHOOL NO. 1, SITKA. [Miss Margaret Powell, teacher.] Date. Jane, 1«85 .J«ly, 1685 August, 1885 ... ^September, 1885 ■'October, 1885... 3S^oveniber, 1885 "December, 1885 . -January, 1886 . . February, 1886 . Jtfarch, 1886 .... April, 1886 Jtf ay, 1886 June, 1886 Monthly attendance. Total Average Boys. attendance. attendance. 17 16 11 31 19 21 22 14 15 22 16 16 26 21 16 34 27 23 31 27 19 43 29 24 44 39 21 43 35 25 37 28 22 51 26 26 46 37 24 Girls. SCHOOL AT FORT WRANGELL. [Miss Lydia McAvoy, teacher.] September, 1885 1 41 ■October, 1885 i • 53 3fovember, 1885 : 70 'December, 1885 ' 69 -January, 1886 65 •February, 1886 '• 67 March, 1886 | 47 April, 1886 | 35 'MsLV, 1886 j 39 •June, 1886 1 33 I SCHOOL ATi JACKSON. [Miss Clara Gould, teacher.] •September, 1885 i 59 •October, 1885 78 T^ovember, 1885 76 December, 1885 •■ 87 January, 1886 ' 77 February, 1886 i 84 •March, i8R6 1 35 April, 1886 j 30 May, 1886 13 20 30 36 30 29 29 37 33 30 30 3L 35 15 13 16 10 5 7 SCHOOL AT HAINES. [Miss Sarah M. Dickinson, teacher.] September, 1885 40 October, 1885 77 November, 1885 68 December, 1885 81 January, 1886 | 84 February, 1886 88 March, 1886 91 April, 1886 106 May, 1886 106 13 10 8 26 22 19 53 29 25 74 35 27 73 36 26 77 36 26 78 37 28 82 43 37 58 43 37 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 3T Siatislics — Continued. HOONAH SCHOOL. [John W. McFarland, teacher.] Date. September, 1885 . October, 1885* .. November, 1885 . December, 1885.. January, 1886 ... February, 1886 . . March, i886t Monthly attendance. Total i Average attendance, attendance. 39 19 68 101 117 115 115 Boya. 19 Girls. AdaUs^ 20 * No school on account of a drunken spree of the natives. Total enrollement np to March 3 was 165. SCHOOL AT UNALASHKA. [Salomon Ripinsky, teacher.] t Estimated. October, 1885 .. November, 1885 December, 1885. January, 1886 . . February. 1886 . March, 1886 .... April, 1886 May. 1886 June, 1886 SCHOOL AT SITKA, NO. 2. [Miss Kate A. Rankin teacher to March 15, 1886; Miss Elizabeth Pattou teacher after March 15,1886.5 December. 1885 77 January, 1886 1 77 February, 1886 i 76 March, 1886 i 56 April, 1886 56 May, 1886 53 June, 1886 1 48 SCHOOL AT KILLISNOO. [George B. Johnston, teacher.] February, 1886 March, i886 ... April, 1886 . . . . May, 1886 June, 1886 1? 10" 11 » Summary of monthly attendance at th^ public schools in Alaska — 1885-'86, Place. i >-> 1 o O > o 'A 6 Q i 1-5 i P< & 3 1 75 17 46 31 30 22 34 22 41 59 40. 37 26 53 78 77 45 90 34 70 76 68 44 76 31 69 87 81 44 77 101 67 43 65 77 84 44 77 117 72 44 07 84 88 43 76 115 74 43 47 35 91 40 56 165 .52 37 35 30 106 36 56 41 51 39 13 106 35 53 32 Sitka, No. 1 Fort "Wrangell 4& 33i 35. Sitka No. 2 1 4& 89 08 1 ..1 50 58 30 58 34 24 32 1 1 1 { 1 S8 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. ^ lu connection with this report I have the honor of inclosing you sev- •eral important papers. As tliey furnish vahiable information concern- iug the history and progress of school work in this section and some of the conditions wLich more or less modify it, I would recommend that they be printed as an a|)pendix. Through the courtesy of the United States Coast and Geodetic Sur- Tey I inclose two maps to accompany the report. These maps are the only ones in existence that give the location of all the schools. As they embody the late explorations of Lieutenant Kay, 1881-'83; Lieutenant Schwatka, 1883; Lieutenant Stoney, 18h3-'85; and Lieutenant Allen, 1885, tbey will be of great interest to the public and prove an important contribution to geographical history. I also inclose a few photographic illustrations, showing the location of some of tlie schools, the appearance of the Eskimo on the Kuskokwim Kiver, and their surrouniigh the Presidenl. In 1877 Kev. Sheldon Jackson, D. D., superintendent of Presbyterian missions for the Rocky Mountain Territories, having had his attention called to Alaska, visited the southeastern ])ortion, and established the first American school in that section on the lOth o iAugust, 1877, with Mrs. A. K. McFarhuid as teachei-. Later, he ('stal)lished schools at Sitka, Haines (Chilkats), Boyd (Hoonah^), and Jackson (Hydalis). Re- turning to the States, Dr. .Jackson commenced an agitation to arouse the dormant public sentiment of the country in behalf of a government and schools for Alaska. He held public meetings in many of the leading cities and nniny of the ])rominent towns from the Pacific to the Atlantic, delivering from 1878 to 1884 about nine hun- dred a have jurisdiction, subject to the supervision of the district judge, iu all testamentary and probate matters, aud for this purpose their courts shall be opened at stated terms and be courts of record, aud be provided with a seal for the authentication of their official acts. They shall also have power to grant writs of habeas corpus for the purpose of inquiring into the cause of restraint of liberty, which writs shall be made returnable before the said district judge for said district ; and like proceedings shall be had thereon as if the same had been granted by said judge uuder the general laws of the United States in such cases. Said com- missioners shall also haA'e the powers of notaries public, aud shall keep a record of all deeds aud other iustruments of writing acknowledged before them aud relating to the title to or transfer of projierty within said district, which record shall be subject to public inspection. Said commissioners shall also keep a record of all fines and for- feitures received by them, aud shall pay over the same quarterly to the clerk of said district court. The governor appointed uuder the provisions of this act shall, from time to time, inquire into the operations of the Alaska Seal and Fur Company, and shall annually rejiort to Congress the result of such inquiries and any and all viola- tions by said company of the agreement existing between the United States and said company. Sec. 6. That the marshal for said district shall have the general authority and powers of the United States marshals of the States and Territories. He shall be the executive officer of said court, and charged with the execution of all jirocess of said . court and with the transportation aud custody of prisoners, and he shall be ex-officio EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 41 keeper of the jail or peuiteutiary of said district. He shall appoint four deimties, who shall reside severally at the towns of Sitka, Wrangell, Unalashka, and Juneau City, and they shall respectively bo ex-ot'ticio constables ancf executive officers of the com- missioners' courts herein. provided, and shall have the powers and discharge the duties of United States deputy marshals, and those of constables under the laws of the State^ of Oregon now in force. Sec. 7. That the gener,il laws of the State of Oregon now in force are hereby de- clared to be the law in said district, so far as the same may be applicable and not in conflict with tlie ]>rovisions of this act or the laws of the United States; and the sen- tence of imprisonment in any criminal case shall be carried out by conlinemeut in the jail or penitentiary hereinafter provided for. Eut the said district court shall have ex- clusive jurisdiction in all cases in equity or those involving a question of title to land, or mining rights, or the constitutionality of a law, and in all criminal offenses which are capital. In all civil cases, at common law, any issue of fact shall be determined by a jury, at the instance of either party; and an appeal shall lie in any case, civil or criminal, from the judgment of said conmiis^sioners to the said district court where the amount involved in any civil case is two hundred dollars or more, and in any criminal case where a fine of more than one hundred dollars or imprisonment is im- posed, upon the filing of a sufficient appeal bond by the party appealing, to be ap- proved by the court or commissioner. Writs of error in criminal cases shall issue to the said district court from the United States circuit court for the district of Oregon in the cases provided in chapter one hundred and seventy-six of the laws of eighteen hundred and seventy-nine ; and the jurisdiction thereby conferred upon' circuit courts is hereby given to the circuit court of Oregon. And the final judgments or decrees of said circuit and district court may be reviewed by the Supreme Court of the United States as in other cases. Sec. S. That the said district of Alaska is hereby created a land district, and a United States land-office for said district is hereby located at Sitka. The conmiis- sioner provided for by this act to reside at Sitka shall be ex-officio register of said laud-office, and the clerk provided for by this act shall be ex-officio receiver of pub- lic moneys, and the marshal provided for by this act shall be ex-officio surveyor gen- eral of said district, and the laws of the United States relating to mining claims, and the rights incident thereto, shall, from and after the passage of this act, be in full force and effect in said district, under the administration thereof herein provided for, subject to such regulations as may be made by the Secretary of the Interior, approved by the President: Provided, That the Indians or other persons in said district shall not be disturbed in the possession of any lands actually in their use or occupation or now claimed by them, but the terms under which such persons may acquire title to such lands is reserved for future legislation by Congress: And provided farther^ That parties who have located mines or mineral privileges therein under the laws of the United States applicable to the public don.ain, or who have occupied and improved or exercised acts of ownership over such claims, shall not be disturbed therein, but shall be allowed to i)erfect their title to such claims by payment as aforesaid : And pro- vided also. That the land not exceeding six hundred and forty acres at any station now occupied as missionary stations among the Indian tribes in said section, with the improvements thereon erected by or for such societies, shall be continued in the oc- cupancy of the several religious societies to which said missionary stations respect- ively belong until action by Congress. But nothing contained in this act shall be construed to put in force in said (listrict the general land laws of the United States. Sec. 9. That the governor, attorney, judge, marshal, clerk, and commissioners pro- vided for in this act shall be appointed by the President of the United States, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall hold their respective offices for the term of four years, and until their successors are appointed and qualified. They shall severally receive the fees of office established by law for the several offices the duties of which liave been hereby conferred upon them, as the same are determined and allowed in respect of similar offices under the laws of the United States, which fees shall be reported to the Attorney-General and paid into the Treasury of the United States. They shall receive respectively the following animal salaries : The governor, the sum of three thousand dollars; the attorney, the sum of two thousand five hundred dollars; the marshal, the sum of two thousand live hundred dollars; the judge, the sum of three thousand dollars; and the clerk, the sum of two thousand five hundred dollars, payable to them quarterly from the Treasury of the United States. The district judge, marshal, and district attoruey shall be paid their actual, necessary expenses when traveling in the discharge of their official duties. A detailed account shall be rendered of such expenses under oath, and asto the marshal and dis- trict attoruey such account shall be approved by the judge, and as to his expenses by the Attorney-General. The commissioners shall receive the usual fees of United States commi.'-sioners and justices of the peace for Oregon, and such fees for recording in- struments as are allowed by the laws of Oregon for similar services, and in addition a salary of one thousand dollars each. The deputy marshals, in addition to the usual 42 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. fees of coustablea in Oregon, shall receive each a salary of seven hundred and fifty dollars, which salaries shall also be ])ayaltle (iiiarterly our. of the Treasury of the United States. Each of said othcials shall, before entering on the duties of his office, take and subscribe an oath that he will faithfully execute the same, which said oath niay be taken before the judge of said district or" any United States district or circuit judge. That all officers appointed for said district, before entering upon the duties of their offices, shall take the onths required by law, and the laws of the United States, not locally inapplicuble to said district and not inconsistent with the provisions of this act, are hereby extended thereto; but there shall be no legislative assembly in said district, nor shall any delegate be sent to Congress tlicrefroui. And the said clerk shall execute a bond, with sufficient suieties, in the penalty of ten thousand dollars, foi' the faithful performance of his duties, and tile the sanie with the Secre- tary of the Treasury before entering on the duties of his office; and the commission- ers shall each execute a bond, with sutUcient sureties, in the ])enalty of three thou- sand dollars, for the fiuthful performance of their duties, and tile the sanje with the clerk b(rfore entering on the duties of their office. Skc. 10. That any of the public buildings in said district not required for the cus- toms service or military purposes shall be used for court-rooms ami offices of the civil government; and the Secretary of the Treasury is hereby directed to instruct and authorize the custodian of said buildings forthwith to make such repairs to the jail in the town of Sitka, in said district, as will render it suitable for a jail and peniteutiary for the purposes of the civil government hereby ])rovided, and to surrender to the marshal the custody of said jail and the other ))ublic buildings, or such i)arts of said buildings as may be selected for court-rooms, offices, and officials. Sec. 11. That the Attorney-General is directed forthwith to compile and cause to be printed, in the English language, in pamphlet form, so much of the general laws of the United Slates as is ajiplicable to the duties of the governor, attorney, judge, clerk, marshals, and commissioners api)ointed for said district, and shall furnish for the use of the ofilicers of said Territory so many copies as may be needed of the laws of Oregon applical)le to said district. Sec. 1"2. That the Secretary of the Interior shall select two of the officers to be ap- pointed under this act, who, together with the governor, shall constitute a conmiis- •siou to examine into and report upon the condition of the Indians residing in said Territory, what lands, if any, should be reserved for their use, what provision shall be made for their education, what rights by occupation of settlers should be recog- nized, and all other facts that may be necessary to enable Congress to determine what limitations or conditions should be imposed when the land laws of the United States shall be extended to said district ; and to defray the expenses of said commission the sum of two thousand dollars is hereby appropriated out of any moneys in the Treas- ury not otherwise appropriated. Sec. 13. That the Secretary of the Interior shall make needful and i)ropeT I'rovision for the education of the child'ren of school age in the Territory of Alaska, without ref- erence to race, until such time as permanent provision shall be njade for the same, and the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, is hereby ai)propriated for this i)urpose. Sec. 14. That the provisions of chapter three, title twenty-three, of the Revised Statutes of the United States, relatipg to the unorganized TeVritory of Alaska, shall remain in full force, except as herein specially otherwise provided ; and the importa- tion, manufacture, and sale of intoxicating liquois in said district except for medici- nal, mechanical and scientific purposes is hereby prohibited under the peualties which are provided in section nineteen hundred and fifty-five of the Revised Statutes for the wrongful importation of distilled spirits. And the President of the United States shall make such regulations as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this section. Approved, May 17, 1884. Appendix C. Depaktment of the Interior, Washington, D. C, March 2, 1885. Sir: Section 13 of the act providing a civil government for Alaska devolves upon the Secretary of tiie Inteiior the duty of making needful and ])roper provision for the education of children ot school age in that Territory until permanent provision shall be made for the same. The nature of the duties assigned by section 516 of the Revised Statutes to the Commissioner of Education would seem to point him out as the proper officer through whom the purpose of Congress should be carried into execution. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 43 I have To request, therefore, that yon i)repare a plan of operation and initiate snch steps as are necessary and projjcr for carryinjj into ettcct the legislation above referred to, reporting the results of the same as may be hereafter directed by the Secretary of the Interior or whenever in yonr judgment there may be occasion for so doing. Verv respectfully, &c., II. M. TELLER, Secretary. The CoMMissiONEK OF Education. Appendix D. Departmknt of the Interior, Bureau of P^ducation, JVnsMngton, D. C, Jpril 9, 1885. Sir: In carrying out the orders of the Department under the law providing for the estaldishment of common schools in Alaska, I tind a condition of facts which I wish to submit t() vonr consideration, together with a recommendation. The nearest school in Alaska will be about 4,.">00 miles from Washington, and all of the schools will be widely separated from each other, some of them doubtless over (3,000 miles from this city. Tlie appropriation of .iji'i.j.OOO for the entire work is very small, and much should be done in the way of inducing the conuuunities where there is money to co-operate in bearing expenses, and thus increasing the amount to be accomplished by the small fund at connnaud. I see uo way to organize schools sulificiently under these circum- stances l)Mt by the appointment of some one in Alaska as a general agent of educa- tion. Residing at Sitka, this superintendent could go out in the naval vessel to visit the several chief centers of ])opulation where schools can be established, and iutej-est the people, .jndge intelligently of the requirements for buildings, teachers, »fec., and thus furnish the data for intelligent direction of the schools, here in Washington. I there- fore recommend that a general agent of education for Alaska be appointed by the Secretary of the Interior, to report to this ottice for orders and instrnctions, at a nominal salary of . 11,^00 a year, which will but little more than cover exjjenses. Be- fore conelnding to make this recommendation I may add that I have conferred, with a considerable number of very intelligent persons who have visited Alaska, all of whom thoronghh concnr in the view that it would be impossible to manage schools there etticiently without a local superintendent. The governor of the Territory when here recently expressed himself to the same effect. In looking for the projier person to become snch an a gent, I hud no one either so well qnalihed or so strongly recommended as Mr. Sheldon Jackson. He has re- peatedly visited considerable portions of the country, and written a book which is a popular source of information in regard to its people and their progress, and led the way in the establishment of the schools at present taught in the Territory, and is now their superintendent. He was nn.inimously fecommended for the position of snuer- intendent of instruction by all of the private organizations some time since aiming to promote education in Alaska, and by a considerable number of [irominent men. I have known Mr. .lackson thoroughly for a considerable number of years. He is a Christinn gentleman, of excellent ability, great energy, and, I believe, specially fitted to carry through, successfully, the plan of estal)lishing schools in that far oti' country. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, vour obedient servant, JOHN EATON. % Commissioner. The Hon. Secretary of thk Interior, fVa>ihi»gton, D. C. Approved : L. Q. C. Lamar, Secrttarij. Appendix E. national educational association. Officei-s for 188^-'86. President. — N. A. Calkins, of New York. Secretarij. — W. E. Sheldon, of Massiichusetts. Treasurer. — E. C. Hewett, of Illinois. Vice-Presidents. — F. Louis Soldan, of Missouri ; S. T. Dntton, of Connecticut ; James MacAlister, of Pennsylvania ; L. I). Brown, of Ohio ; Julius D. Dreher, of Virginia ; 44 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. S. M. Finger, of Nortli CaroUna; Edwjinl E. Sheib, of Louisiana ; J. Baldwin, of Texas; J. VV. Stearns, of Wisconsin ; J. L. Pickanl, of Iowa ; Z. Richards, of the Dis- trict of ColuniUia ; Ella C Subin, of Oregon. Coii)i,selors at large.— John Eaton, of the District of Columbia ; E. E. White, of Ohio. Counselors. — W.J. Corthell,of ISIainc ; C. C. Ronnds, of New Hampshire; Justus Dart, of Vermont; Sarali E. Doyle, of Rhode Island ; Charles D. Hine, of Connecticut ; McLain,of New York; W. N. Barringer, of New Jersey ; H. S. Jones, of Pennsyl- vania ; G.Stanley Hall, of Maryland ; S. C. Armstrong, of Virginia : S. B. Brown, of AVest Virginia; Charles E. Taylor, of Noith Carolina; V. C. Dibble, of South Caro- lina; J. M. F. Irwin, of (Jeorgia; Jnlia Tntweiler, of Alabama; J. R.Preston, of Mis- sissippi ; K. Nicholson, of Louisiana; O. V. Hayes, of Arkansas; Clara Conway, of Tennessee; W, D. Parker, of Wisconsin; R. D. Allen, of Kentucky ; Robert Steven- sou, of Ohio; 0. S. Westcott, of Illinois; S. S. Parr, of Indiana;. Henry Sabiu, of Iowa; Irwin Shepard,of Minnesota ; J. S. Cowdin, of Florida ; H. C. Spear, of Kan- sas; E. H. Long, of Missouri ; W. VV. W. Jones, of Nebraska; John Swett of Califor- nia; A. Gove, of Colorado; G. C. Hall, of Arizona; F. H. Crawford, of Oregon ; J. M. Feudley, of Texas; J. S. Ingraham, of Washington Territory; J. M. Covner, of Utah; W. H. H. Beadle, of Dakota; A. S. Nichols, of Montana; John Hitz, of Dis- trict of Columbia ; J. H. Covell,of Indian Territory; Charles S. Young, of Nevada; Larkm Dunton, of Massachusetts ; W. H. Payne, of Michigan. At the Twenty-fifth annual session of the National Association, at Saratoga Springs, July 14-17, 1885, the following resolution was adopted: "This association rejoices to know that Congress has provided for schooling the children of Alaska, and that Dr. Sheldon Jackson has been designated as agent to organize these schools. We know of no one so well qualified as he is for this distant and difficult task, and we send him our heartiest greetings." Appendix F. [Extract from the report of the Hon. A. P. Swiaeford, governor of Alaska, to the Secretary of the Interior, 1885.] EDUCATION. The organic act approved May 17, 1884, provided an appropriation of $25,000 " for the education of the children of school age in the Territory of Alaska, without ref- erence to race," and by act of July 4, 1884, a further appropriation of $L'S,000 is made " for the support and education of Indian children of both sexes at industrial schools in Alaska." By the terms of the first-mentioued act the honorable the Secre- tary of the Interior is required to make such proper anit to the isUuid i)f Saint George, a fact jirati- fyinjj; to all those who, like myself, ft el interested in the future moral develoinnent of the Aleutian population. On the I4th instant I was jtresent at the examination of a school of twelve hoys and six girls in English reading; they 7l. Siu : I have the honor to report. * » » The school whieli was sui)ported through last winter has been susj)endeil for the sealing season, but will be again opened as soon as it shall seem profitable to do so. I am, respectfully, SAMUEL FALCONER, Special Agent. Charles Bkyant, Esq., ^ Special Agent Treasurt/ Department, Saint Paul Island. Fairiiavex, Mass., November 10, 1871. Sir: I have the honor to report. * * * The only po.ssible place where a school could be accommodated wasthe dining-room of the employesoltlie conii any, and that could l)e had only two hours in each afternoon. As early as |)ractieable a school was opened, aud both i)areuts and children were def))ly interested in its success. It was attended by 21) scholars between the ages of live and eighteen, the average attend- ance being O.') per cent. All learned the al})habet, and many to read simple sentences, but great ditticulty was experienced in enabling them to understand the meaning, their isolated condition being unfavorable to the development of ideas, and it was found that the only effective method was object teaching, for which there existed a scanty supply of material. The school had to be closed in April, and owing to the dilHculty of uumy attending during the sealing season, it hail not been resumed. At the time of my leaving (August 15) a large building v.'as being litted expies.sly for the school and a place for the people to assemble. There are on the islands a population of 376 natives, so called ; these are about one- half pure Aleutian blood, the other half Creole blood; in several the foreign element- predominates. They have a well-organized 8y\stem of government, under chiefs of their own election, subject to removal at the will of the people, whenever they choose. Those now acting have done so for three years, and are very efhcient men. These exerci.se a kind of patriarchal supervision over the affairs of the whole people, but pos- sess no power to enforce their authority beyond tlie expression of their will. This meets all their wants as a simple community, but there sometimes arise contingencies when this is insufficient. I have the houor to remain. Hon. Geo. S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. CHARLES BRYANT, Special Agent Treasury Department. Treasury Agent's Office, Saint Paul Lsland, Alaska, September 5, 1872. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the affairs of the Seal Isl- ands since my last, dated May 7, 1872. The school has been discontinued during the sealing season, but will be resumed »gain as soon as the vessels are gone. I have the honor to remain. Hon. Geo. S. Boutwell, Seoretary Treasury. CHARLES BRYANT, Treasury Ayent in charge Seal Islands. 48 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. Assistant Tjjeasury Agent's Office, Saint George Island, May 27, 1H73. Sir : Having reported to you in detail in the month of August last — The school was maintained through the winter, but has met with (juite a drawback on the part of the children's parents; tliey entertain the idea that by learning an English education it will interfere with their religion. The absurdity of this has been fully explained to them, and a few have consented to have their children attend, although not regular, while others are still of the original belief. Thus, where no iudncenient is held forth by the children's parents, slow progress may be expected, not but what much pains has been taken by their teacher. Would it not be well to notify their bishop at Sitka in reference to this, who would be most likely to banish this erroneous idea from their minds entirely f * * # * * .' * SAMUEL FALCONER. Assistant Treasury Agent in Charge of Saint George Island. Faikhaven, Mass., September ZO, 1873. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the condition — The census taken January 1, 1873, on Saint Paul Island gives the number of the Dative inhabitants on the island 218; to these should be added the seventeen then absent and properly to be reckoned as belonging to the island, making in all 235, showing a decrease since 1870 of 12 persons. These are divided as follows : Males, 114 ; females, 121. A school-house was fitted up and pi'operly consecrated, and a school commenced Octobers, and continued eight months; but on account of a prejudice among the people, who have a fear that in learning English their ehildrcn will forget their Rus- sian and weaken their attachment to their church, only seven attended regularly. Under tbe assiduous care of the teacher, these made very commendable jirogress. There were at the same time three classes taught by natives, two in Russian and one in Aleut; in all, 17 scholars attended schools of all kinds. Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer reports the same difficulties existing on the island of Saint George in regard %o securing attendance at school. * ir * It # 7f * CHARLES BRYANT, Treasury Agent for Seal Islands. Treasury Agent's Office, Saint Paul Island, Alaska, May 12, 1875. Sir : I have the honor to inform you of the arrival at this island, on the 10th ult., ■of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, 22 days from San Francisco. * # #"# « # * The school was commenced in the first week of October, and kept continally, ex- cept public and church holidays. The first months a very general attendance was secured, bnt with the commencement of the church holidays the attendance fell off, and it was diflicnlt, without actual compulsion, to secure so great an attendance as was desirable. Mrs. C. P. Fish labored diligently and perseveriugly to accomplish her task, and a few who have become attached to her have made good progress in .reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. The strong prejudice that exists among some of the more bigoted against their children learning English, lest it should weaken their attachment to the Russian church, prevents a cordial action on the part •of many. I have the honor to remain, CHARLES BRYANT, Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 49 Fairhavex, Mass., August 1, 1877. Sir: I bare the honor to submit the foUowinp; brief report on the affairs of the Seal Ishiucls from the date of mv hist report, dated September 2(i, 1876, to Mav 15^ 1877. The school was commenced October 2 — Miss Juniatte B. Pierce as teacher — and con- tinned to the end of May. At tlie commencement a full attendance was secured, which continued until the holidays in January. From that time it was difficnlt to secure a full attendance, from hick of interest and appreciation by the parents of the chihlren. Tliose who attended reguhirly made very good proujress, but owing to their having no iiractical use of the English language outside of the school-room, there is very little exhibition of its knowledge, unless they are questioned directly for the purpose of drawing them out. * ^^ * * 1 # # I have the honor to remain, yours, respectfullv, CHARLES BRYANT, Ex-Treasury Agent for Seal Islands^ Hon. John Shekmax, Secretary of the Treasury. Office of the Treasury Agent, Saint Paul Island, Alaska, May 1.3, 1878. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following statement relative to alfairs at the seal fisheries since the date of my last report in May, 1877 : ■» * ■♦ * " * X * A school was maintained on the island from the 17th of September, 1377, to the 17tb of May, making eight months. As the people were very desirous of tbe establishment of a Russian school, the nse of the company's school-house was granted for that pur- pose in the afternoons, and the English school has therefore been held only during the morning hours. This arrangement has served to dispel the objection heretofore held by the people to their children attending the English school, which they con- tended would effectually interfere with the acquisition of the Russian tongue, in which their church service is conducted. Before the opening of the Englisli school, I took pains to explain to the pai'ents the importance of sending their children, and stated to them that every child of proper age and condition would be required to attend. Treasury Agent Moulton has since given his close personal attention to this matter with very excellent results. The average attendance of boys and girls during the term was about thirty, which was much larger than has ever been given to any pre- vious school. Under an excellent lady teacher the progress made by the children la the elementary branches has been very commendable. The population of this island on the 1st day of January, 1878, was 257, divided as follows: Males, 118; females, 139. ^ The number of births during the year 1877 was 13, and the number of deaths 18. » # » # ■ # # * Very respectfully, J. M. MORTON, Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. [OflBoe of Special Agent, Treasury Department, in charge of Fur Seal Islands, Alaska.} Saint Paul Island, June 1, 1879, Sir : I have the honor to report my arrival here on the 27th ultimo to enter upon the discharge of my duties as special agent. * * » I found Assistant Special Agent J. H. Moulton in charge, and obtained from him in- formation touching the condition of affairs on the ishmd during the past winter, which has been generally favorable, and of which I submit herewith a brief report. * » » I have no report from Saint George Island. The English school here was taught three hours each week-day from September 2, 1878, to May 8, 1879 — eight months — with an average daily attendance of '^S out of a total of 42 on the school roll. The Russian school was taught from two to three hours a day (in the afternoon) with an average attentlance of about 44. Assistant Special Agent Moulton appears to have 7018 AL 4 50 EDUCATION ]X ALASKA. takeu great iuterest iu the Euolisli school, and to have exerted liimaelf to promote its efficiency, as also has the teacher, James Butrin, a native Aleut, educated iu Ver- uiout. * * * Respectfully, your obedient servant, HARRISON G. OTIS, Special Jgent Treasury Department, in charge of Fur Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman. Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, I). C. [Office Special Agent Treasury Department, in charge of Seal Islands.] Saint Paul Island, Alaska, July 30, 1880. Sir : I have the honor to sirbmit the following report on the results of the sealing season, just closed, on the islands of Saint Paul and Saint George, and other aftairs of the Seal Islands, during the year which has elapsed siuce my last annual report. The native population of Saint Paul Island, as shown by the census taken on the Ist of January, 1880, embraced 83 resident families, and a total of 278 souls. During the year there were 9 marriages, 19 births, and 18 deaths on this island. Saint George Island, by the census takeu July 1, 1880, had a total population of 92 souls; the families numbered '-^5, and there were 4 marriages, 5_l)irths, and G deaths during the year. # * * if » * s English schools have been maintained during eight months of the year on both islands. They were well taught, and the progress made by the pupils iu their studies was not discreditable. The attendance on the Saint George school was good, being 100 per cent, of the whole number of pupils enrolled — 24. There was something of a falling oil' in the attendance on this island over that of the iirecediug year, the per- centage being but 7.5 of the enrollment — 40. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant. HARRISON G. OTIS, Treasury Jgent, in charge. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, Saint Paul Island, July 30, 1881. Sir : I have the honor to submit my annual report on sealing operations and other affairs at the Seal Islands during the past year. * » * * * • * * The last census of Saint Paul Island, taken December 31, 1880, shows a total native population of 279 .souls. Two marriages, 21 births, and 20 deaths occurred during that year. Saint George Island, by the census of July, 1881, had a total native population of 102 souls. Two marriages, 6 births, and 6 deaths occurred during the year on that island. ******* English schools have been maintained by the lessees on each island during eight mouths of the year, three hours of the day. The enrollment of children of school age was, on Saint Paul Island, 40 ; on Saint George, 28 ; total, 68. The average attendance was a fraction less thau 62. The progress made is percepti- ble, though not rapid as heretofore. On Saint Paul Island a Russian school has been kept by a sub-priest (uuder a concession formerly made) during most of the same period, about three hours a day, five days a week, church holidays excepted. These holidays are very frequent, amouutiug to some thirty-three during the last school term, and interfere seriously with the regularity of the school attendance. On this account I made the rule that, without encroaching upon the regular church holidays or customs, the English school hours should either be increased or the term extended so as to make it equivalent to not less than two hundred actual school days of not less than three hours each. **.**#*« I remain, sir, your obedient servant, HARRISON G. OTIS, Treasury Agent, in charge. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 51 Offick of the Special Agent, Tkeasury Department, Saint Paul Island, July 21, 1882. Sir: I have tbe bouor to vsubinit the foUowing report of the sealing business at the Seal Islands of" Alaska, for the year ended July 20, 18^2. •» * ■ » # ' * * » The mortality upon this island since January 1, 1882, has been greater than for the same time in any year since the lease to the Alaska Commercial Company. Thirty-six deaths have taken place, of which 13 were adult males, 9 adult females, and 14 were children. Pneumonia and consumption are the principal fatal diseases. The people are irregular in their habits, careless in exposing themselves to the elements, do not have good nursing and attention while sick, and appear to be reckless and fearless of death. if # # « « 4> » There has been no manufacturing or drinking of quass bj"- the natives-siuce I ar- rived here, in May. The prohihitiou of the sale of sugar, except for the sick, seems to have suppressed this evil, which has heretofore been a curse to the people. The amount of money to be distributed to the natives of Saint Paul this year is §32,008.36. This has been equitably apportioned to the widowfe of sealers who have died since the end of the last season, and to the present working force, according to the merits of each individual. The natives are better paid, according to the amount of work they do, than any class of laborers in this or any other country. The payment to each man amounts to more than the earnings of an ordinary labor- ing man at the East for a year, with constant employment. In addition, the Alaska Company furnish them with house, meat, fuel, salt, and schools free of charge. They are indeed highly favored, and, as wards of the 'Government, luxuriously provided for. The amount to be distributed at Saint George is $8,000. The long exemption from labor, from the end of one season to the beginning of the next, is detrimental to the natives. It is a sort of enforced idleness. They must of necessity employ their time unprofitably if not engaged in actual industry. * * * Many of the jjcople are improvident. A few of them are economical, and have de- posits at interest with the Alaska Commercial Company, aggregating on both islands on the 1st day of June, 1881, $23,087.81. Every person receiving a share in the dis- tribution is required to keep to his credit enough to secure to his family a weekly payment of $3 until the next distribution is made. This insures to every family a living beyond the habits or improvidence of the husband. The Alaska Commercial Company support the widows and orphans of those sealers •who have died without leaving property. #»**#♦# The health of the natives on Saint George has been good ; only two deaths have occurred there in a year, and those were children. Respectfully submitted. HENRY A. GLIDDEN, Special Agent, Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Office of the Special Agent, Treasury Department, Saint Paul Island, Alaska, July 30, 1883. Dear Sir : I submit the following as my annual report of the condition of affair* at the Seal Islands of Alaska for the year ending July 30, 1883: The health of the natives on both islands has been unusually good ; no epidemic has occurred, and few deaths have taken place. The population of Saint Pan?, as by census taken on the Ist day of January, 1883, is as follows: 77 families; whole number of actual residents, 231. Adults 62 5 to 17 years 21 Under 5 years 18 101 females. Adults 76 .5 to 17 years 38 Under 5 years 16 130 52 • EDUCATION IN ALASKA. The population of Saint George, as by census taken August 1, 1883: 27 families; ■whole number actual residents, 104. MALKS. I'EMALKS. Adults 2S Adults /.... 32 Youths 18 Youths 22 Infants : 3 Infants 6 44 ! GO The conduct of the people has been exceptionally good since my last report. There has been no nuiking or drinking of quass, so far as I am informed, and no case of in- toxication has come to my knowledge. Tliis is undoubtedly the result of stopping the sale of* sugar except in cases of sickness and upon tbe order of the physician in charge. The people are very orderly and i)eaceable. There has been no disturbance of any kind, except in one instance, hereafter mentioned. They dress and live well, and imitate the Americans in that respect to a large degree. They have been obedi- ent to mj^ orders and are easily controlled. They are but grown children in many respects, and at times ueed moderate puuishment. All that is necessary to control them is firmness and uniformity of discipline. Eespectfully yours, Hon. Charles J. Folgbr, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. HENRY A. GLIDDEN, Special Agent, Seal Islands. Offick of Special Agent, Treasury Department, Saint Paul Island, July 31, 1884. Sir : I have the honor to submit to you my annual report of the condition of affairs at the Seal Islands, Alaska, for the year ended July 30, 1884, as follo-ws : The census of Saint Paul, taken January 1, 1884, shows: Total number of nativ^es belonging to the island 219 Residents of other islands visiting here 11 Total 230 Composed of 99 males and 131 females. * # » » # * if The ceusus of Saint George, taken January 1, 1884, shows : Total number of native inhabitants, 111 ; composed of 47 males and 64 females. The school maintained on Saint Paul during the past year has been more than usu- ally prosjierous under the guidance of a new teacher. The number of pupils regis- tered 54, and the average daily attendance for eight months, 51.59. In this we chal- lenge comparison with the schools of an enlightened civilization. Very respectfully, yours, HENRY A. GLIDDEN, Treasury Agent, Seal Islands. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, P. C. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, Sai7it Paul Island, Alaska, June — , 1885. Sir : * * * The school has been well kept, and the attendence equal to any in the United States, in proportion to the number of scholars. There has not been a single unexcused absence. The system of fines for being absent which I inaugurated two years ago has proved successful. I have not realized a single fine for non-attendance during the past year. The percentage of attendance for eight months is 98 — very good for half-civilized children ; fully equal to any civilized. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, Hon. Daniel Manning, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. H. A. GLIDDEN, Treasury Agent, Seal Islands. education in alaska. 53 Appendix H. exploratiox on the upper yukon' river by rev. vincent c. sims, of the church missionary society (episcopal) of england. Rampart House, Mackenzie River District, yorthwe>it Tcrritorif, Canada, November 2'3, 1883. My Dear Mr. : When 1 last wrote 1 was at Peel River, but about a month after, I came down here to await the breaking np of the river. While here I wa« very busy with the Indians, who wei'e coming in from all directions with their spring fur hunts. At that time of the year thei'e is no night here (in the summer the sun doesn't set at all), and if I had wished I could have liad plenty of visitors at midnight, as most of the Indians are up then, preferring to sleep in the day. I left on June 15 and returned August 2.5. Three Indians accompanied m«, and we traveled in a bark canoe. Our course lay down the Porcupine River, and as the current is strong we went along quickly. On the way down I came upon a party of Indians from the Ramparts, and spent a couple of days with them. I could not st;)y longer, as provisions were scarce, so off we went again. The Porcupine becomes a good-sized stream as it nears the Yukon, and there is some pretty scenery on its banks. Bnt it is at the iuuction of the Porcupine with the Yukon that the finest view is to be obtained — such an immense body of water — it was really grand. A little paddling up-stream brought us to old F'ort Yukon, once a post of the Hudson Bay Con)pauy, but aljaiuloned by them when Alaska became a part of the Uniteil States. Most of the buildings are still standing and are partly occupied by Sanyoolyi, the chief of the Yukon Indians. This old mau 18 a famous chief in these parts, and he is held in great awe by the Indians. Ilia fame, I am sorry to say, is not good ; he has taken several lives, and as he is a very powerful man and exceedingly passionate, the Indians fear lest he shall do so again. He has several wives and a large family, but I am thankful to say that the sous do not take after their father; indeed I have real hopes that one or two of them are sincere Christians. The old chief gave us a most gracious reception, and of course we feasted, partly at my expense, though. I soon saw, however, that we couldn't stay there — the salmon had not commenced to come, geese and ducks were scarce, no moose had been killed, so that provisions were scarce. While there, however, there was plenty to do. The Indians crowded round to be tauglit, and to buy books, and what I saw 0f these people made me wish that I could stop longer with them. However, that was impossible, so the next day we resumed our journey. We had now four days' hard paddling up-stream agaiust a strong cur- rent before we should see the next baud of Indians. It was pretty stiff work, although we kept out of the main stream as much as pos- sible, keeping along close to the shore. It wasu't always very safe either. Some- times we would be creeping under high banks undermined by the water, which would every now and then fall in with a tremendous crash, or perhaps we would be paddling along lines of fallen wood, against which the strong currcMit would threaten every moment to dash us. Once or twice we knocked a. big hole in the canoe, but happily for us we were at places where we could get ashore; otherwise the conse- quences might have been more serious. Provisions were not over-abundant, but we were never without a meal ; the boys always managed to kill something, chiefly ducks and geese, though both of these were unusually scarce. Sometimes we were putting to shore with little or nothing for supper and breakfast, when all at once a few geese would start up close by, and our stock of provisions would be replenished for another meal or two. And it is very noticeable that, after we reached the Indians and were able to get fish and meat from them, we hardly ever saw a goose or duck. God's faithfulness made me feel ashamed of my unbelief, for although I had told the boys that we were on God's work and He wouldn't let us want, I must confess that I didn't ahvays feel so confident. On our fourth day we reached the Upper Ramparts, which is the name given to the mountains among which the river runs, and which afford some very beautiful scenery sometimes. At this .place we came upon another band of Indians, who welcomed us with firing off guns and plenty of hand-shaking. Scarcity of food prevented us stopping more than a couple of nights. They had enough to provision us to the next band of In- dians, but not enough to keep us there any time. But they worked me well while I was with them, and I was cheered by the desire they manifested for instruction. The head man of the band was the eldest son of Sanyoolyi, and he had followed his father's example and taken two wives. I spoke to him about it, and he confessed that he was wrong, and before I left it was settled that one of his wives should leave him. On starting off again we were accompanied by some Indians in their canoes, and 1 may mention here that two of these Indians continued with us during the rest of our jour- ney up the river, traveling with us at least 300 miles in order that they might get 54 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. more instruction. Three days up-stream brought us to a large band of Han Kuitchin (River Indians), or, as tliey are sometimes called, Gensdos Fous, a name of which they are not proud, and which they might, with some reason, plead that they don't deserve. These were the first Indians I have seen in this part of the coimtry who live ia houses; I think, however, they only do this in the SMmiiicr, as in the winter they are generally on the move. They gave me a warm welcome, provided me with a large tent capable of containing a good number of people, and crowded round me for their first lesson. From this time until ten days later, when I left them, I did nothing but teacli from morning till night. Morning and evening i>rayers were conducted, the intervening time being occupied by school. I should weary you if I entered into details. Suffice it to say that almost all seemed most eager to learn, and there were some in i)articnlar who gave me good hopes that a real work of grace was going on in their hearts. I would hear them singing hymns when I went to sleep, and I would hear them again when I awoke in the morning. Whether they were at it all night I can't say; I only know that sometimes when I woke up in the night singing would be going on still.' The salmon were now beginning to come, but I fear my teaching sadly interfered ■with the lishing, and many a salmon I think passed that spot in safety because the minister was on the bank teaching. It was almost amusing sometimes to watch the struggle evidently going on in the Indian's mind. He wanted to tish, but he saw others being taught, and he wanted to le.irn too, and often the temptation would bei too strong, and tlie net would give place to the book. Three days' journey up the river brought us to another band of the Han Kuitchin, and with these I remained a week. My experience here was the same as that given above — they gave me no rest, and I could only get it by running into the woods and hiding myself, and then the mosquitoes visited me. I was not very sorry when we started again, for I needed a little rest. It was four days' journey to the next Indians, and on the way we were stirprised to meet a survey party,* sent out by the United States Government, coming down the river on a raft. They were as surprised to see me as I was to see them, and plied me with questions about the country, which, I am afraid, I was not enlightened enough to answer very correctly. I suppose one result of their visit will be a new map of the country, or at all events of the Yukon, which is much needed, for the present ones are by no means correct. Two days after, we arrived at Fort Reliance, and found assembled there the largest hand of Indians we had yet met. They were also tbe wildest, and have the reputa- tion of being very troublesome sometimes with the fur traders. They treated me well enough, however, and during the fortnight I staid among them I saw enough to give me a very hopeful view of the progress of the work among them. I was con- stantly em)>loyed teaching them, and some of them m.ide very rapid progress while I was thert!. Some of them were very impatient, and thought I did not teach them- enough, and sometimes when I was at my meals, or trying to get a little rest, a head ■would be yioked in and " Minister, come and teach us," would be the cry. But I was forced to be idle sometimes, for I was really ill part of the time, and I think if I had had much more of it I should have brought on a severe attack of illness. But for all that, although it was hard, it was a very happy work ; the field was white unto the harvest, and I thank God that I was privileged to enter in and do a little for Him. I haven't dwelt much upon the dark side, peihaps because I experienced so much of the bright. But of course there is a dark side, which only makes it more neces- sary that the Gospel should be taken to them. The state of morals is very bad, espe- cially among the women, and they have great faith in " medicine-making." They fear their medicine men, who take advantage of their superstition and rob them right and left. These Indians are called the Trodh tsik Kuitchin, and I think their country lies within the British boundary line, which is close by Fort Reliance. There were Indians from other tribes also there, some from aiiove and others who had come across country from the Tanana River. They had never seen a minister of the Gospel before, and they begged me most earnestly to go back with them to teach their people. One (a chief) said, " They were not pleased ; God did not care for them or He would have sent a minister to them." 1 told him that God cared for them very much, and had told His people to send ministers everywhere to teach people, but that they liad not obeyed Him. Now one had come to them, and I promised that next year, if possible, I would visit their country. I hope (D. v.) to do so next summer, and by the time you get this I suppose I shall be thinking of turning my face home- ward again. While with the Trodh tsik Kuitchin I met a Mr. Carr, from Arizona, a nephew of General Carr, who I believe holds a command somewhere among the Apaches. He * Lieut. F. Schwatka, TJ. S. A. THE REV. J. ADOLPHUS HARTMAXN. Published throusli tlie courtesy of Mrs. Frank Leslie. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 55 had spent tlie winter in the country, and was now wanting to get out. I was glad to have a white coiupauioa again, and we got on well rogetlier. I was waiting for the steamer which conies up every year to trade with the Indians, and I hoped to go further up the river in ber, but >>he didn't turn up, so we went down to meet ber, and fouiul tbat an accident had happened to the machinery, and she could proceed no further. Mr. ]\[cQuc.sten, the agent of the Alaska Commercial Com]>any, received nie most kindly, and (damages having bt;en repaired as far as possible) gave me a passage down to Fort Yukon, so tbat that part of the journey was accomplished in a decidedly comfortable way. We parted at the Yukon, and we once more took to the canoe, and commenced our return journey up tiie Porcu})iue. We encountered much bad weather, which de- layed us a great deal, so that it was our tenth day before we arrived at the Ramparts, thankful to God that we had been brought in safety to the end of our journey. We had traversed altogether a little more than 1,000 miles; baptisms, 115, chiehy chil- dren. Next year I intend (d. v.) to go down to Nuklukahyet, see the Indians there, go up the Tauana Eiver, and from thence cross the country to the Yukon. I am anxious to see the Indians at Nuklukahyet. Arcluleacon McDonald previously visited them, and they wish for another visit very much. Appendix I. [Diary of Kev. J. A. H. Hartmaun.] EXPLORATION IN WKSTEHX ALASKA 1?Y THE MOKAVIANS, REV. J. A. H. IIARTMANN AXD W. H. WEINLAXD, 1884. April 14, 1884. — I left New Fairtield, Canada, for Bethlehem, having been invited to consult with the directors of the Society of the United Brethren for Propagating the Gosjiel among the Heathen as to proposed expedition to Alaska. April 15. — Very early in the morning I arrived at Bethlehem, and was kindly enter- tained at the house of Brother Edm. de Schweinitz. In the evening there was a meet- ing of the board. Brother Weinhind and myself were provided with ample funds for the journey proposed to us, and received leave to act as circumstances might require. Our outfit was to be procured at San Francisco. The purchase of photographic ap- paratus was also sanctioned. April 16. — In the evening there was a farewell meeting in the large church, at which the claims of Alaska were brought forward. At this service there also took place the ordination of Brother John Killbuck, who is to supply my place at New Fairtield dur- ing my absence. * « * April 27, Sunday. — We arrived in San Francisco in the morning, put up at the Russ House, and went to a Congregational church in the evening. April 28.— After breakfast, I went in search of Captain Healy of the United States. revenue cutter Corwiu. After some inquiries at the Government buildings, I went on board, but the captain was ashore. I found him at last in the Merchants' Ex- change, and learned that the vessel was to sail on the 3d oft May. We purchased part of our outtit, rubber boots, coats, and blankets, rifle, shot-gun, and fishing tackle. April 29. — After breakfast we went on board the Corwin, and saw the captain again. We then procured cauned provisions for Alaska; also an aneroid barometer, a ther- mometer, telescope, blankets, printed cotton, a tent, an ax, hatchet, and saw. May 2. — Through the Lord's mercy I was directed by Captain Healy to the Alaska Commercial Company. I told ilr. Sloss, one of the partners, that the object of our visit to Alaska is to prepare the way for preaching the Gospel to the Eskimos. He seemed favorably impressed with the undertaking, and we felt his sympathy was with us. The company gave us a letter of introduction to Mr. Newman, of Uualashka, asking him to render us all the assistance in his power. Before leaving San Fran- cisco, we deposited with them our return ticket and surplus money, with directions to send them to the Bethlehem Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in case it were the Lord's will that we should not return. Since we had entered into negotia- tions with this company, I will just mention a few details concerning them. The Alaska Commercial Company is at ])reseut all-powerful in Alaskan waters, and almost monopolizes the fur trade of tbat country. They have three main stations, Uualashka, Saint Michael's, and Kadiak, and also the Seal Islands. Their traders on the Aleutian Islands and at the mainland stations of Nnshagak, Togiak, and Kuskokwim are sup- plied with goods for trading from Uualashka, those in the south of the i)eninsula from kadiak, and those in the Yukon district from Saint. Michael's. The large steamer, St. Paul, 1,000 tons burden, sails between Uualashka, Saint Michael's, and the Seal Islands. 56 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. The smaller eteanier Dora and tlio schooner Matthew Turner are principally used in carryinj;' goods to and ironi San Francisco and Unalashka to the mainland. On the Eiv<;r Kjisle, aud the jonruey thither occupies three (lays. June 15, Sunday. — Owing to contrary north winds we were unable to resume our journey. Mr. Lind is very friendly and obliging', and wouhl like to see us establish a school at Kolnuikovsky. From him and his interpreter we gathered the following facts with regard to the beliefs and superstitions of the Eskimos. They know noth- ing of an Almighty Creator, but imagine that all things came spontaueouslj' into being. They believe in a future life, Ijut have no conception either of a heaven or a hell. They are alraid of the spirit of a deceased person (or, as they name it, his shadow), though they do not quite know how it can injure them. The Eskimo knows when he is doing wrong. They tto not believe in a Good Spirit, though tliey conceive the existence of an evil one. They think that such natural phenomena as thunder and lightning are due to the agency of some superior being. Any one carried otf by sickness is said to die a natural death, whilst all cases of sudden disease are attributerecautious. I had to pray for help to endure the hardships and fatigues of the way. We camped for the night at lookhlagamute. June 30, Monday. — Our rubber boots ])roved very serviceable in the wet weather prevalent again. The wind was favorable throughout the whole of the day, except at those points where the river made a bend. The boats were laden with goods al- most to their utmost extent, and, perched on the top, we sat, or knelt, or squatted, leaning first on one side and then on the other, and now and then standing up, iu order to give our limbs as much change as possible. Cold and shivering, and aston- ished that we were able to bare exposure to such inclement weather, we continued our journey, the Lord sustaining us. For a short distance it blew almost a gale, and the large square sail had to be reefed. Landing amid wind and rain at Kalkhagamute, we cooked and ate our dinner among the dripping bushes iu a low scrub close to the village. Then going with Mr. Lind into the village, we entered the kashima and warmed ourselves. KSKIMO MOXUAIKNTS, KU8KOK\VIM KIVER. From a photograph by Messrs. Hartiuauu &. Weinlaml. FliAMES FOK DKYIXG FISH. From a photogrfiph by Messrs. Hartuiaun it Weinlaml. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 65 On our trip vre were greatly anmsed by one of tlie natives, an oarsman in another boat. His only garment was an old, worn-out wkin parka; and this being soaked through and through, and his hair drijiping with wet, we called him the " watei'-rat, "; for he looked more like that than anything else. He is a good si)ecimen of a weather- beaten Eskimo, quite inditferent to the attacks of the mosquitoes in Avarm weather, as well as to wind and rain in wet. All the natives we met were very friendly, nor did Ave ever detect them in any attempt to steal; they seem to be an honest i)eople. Jtili/ 1, Tuesdan. — Starting at S a. m., we reached Ookhogamute after a run of three hours, and there halted for dinner. I entered one of the barrabaras, which are built like the kashima, but are smaller. If these places were kept clean they might be comfortable enough ; the inconvenience caused by the smoke might be ubviated by the erection of an iron stove in the center, with a pipe passing through the roof. They are certainly warm dwellings, and with a little troiible could be finished oif in- side and made lit for the habitation of white men. Dormeutotf's boat sail being old, Laving sutfered from the strong wind, was taken asHore and mended by some of the Eskimo women. Whilst I stood watching their mode of sewing, a young woman rose, came up to ine, and commenced crossing herself at a great rate. I stopped her, say- ing, "That will do," when she desisted, and returned to her occupation. One unus- ually tall man arre-ted my attention, his large hands presenting a striking contrast to the .generally diminutive size of that member amongst the Eskimos. The weather cleared up somewhat while we staid here, but the wind was decidedly cool. The fine weather did not last long. Soon after we started the sky again be- came overcast, the wind abated, and a tine drizzling rain set in. The banks now be- came higher, and were lined at the Avater's edge with graA^el. On we went in a set- tled rain. I got out our tent and covered myself Aviih it, with my back turned to the storm. Brother Weinland and I sat side by side, comfortmg one another with the re- flection that this unpleasant state of things could not last long. At H p. m. we made for the lower end of an island where we wished to encamp for the uight. 'We had considerable difficulty in accomplishing our jjurpose, as our large skin-boat was so heavily laden. The current is here very strong, and our crew of eight men were either tired or lazy. Amid pouring rain tents Avere pitched, a fire Avas kindled, and supper cooked and eaten. Our blankets, as well as our other AA'raps, felt damp, but the Lord jireserved us from harm, and Ave slept well. July 2, Wednesday. — Though the weather outside was tempestuous, Ave pavssed a com- fortable night inside our tent. Mr. Liud calls his eight oarsmen a lazy set of men, and says that the natives do not respect a man unless they fear him. He further stated that it would be out of the question for him to love the natives. We found, however, by experience, that it is quite possible to manage the Eskimos without resorting to severe and unkind measures. The wind rising at 10 a. m., Ave resumed our journey in the rain. The strength of the current three times baffled our endeavors to round a low bank Avhich stretched far out into the river. This circumstance caused our helms- man to giA'e vent to his feelings in strong language, Avhich he afterwards begged us to excuse, stating that such Avas not his Avont. One more long and strong pull and the hoisting of the sail just at the proper moment crowned our efforts with success. A favorable breeze soon brought us to a small A'illage, Avhere we halted for dinner. Then on again in wind and rain until 11 p. m., when Ave at last reached our camping jdace and pitched our tents within a day's journey of Kolmakovsky. The Lord be praised! July 3, Thursday. — Mr. Lind left us with two natives iu our three-holed bidarkaat? a. m., and, as Ave afterwards learnt, reached Kolmakovsky about noon. We in our large boat had a long and tedious day's journey. The wind dying away completely, some of our men went on shore and toAved the boat along for a considerable distance by means of a rope fastened to the mast. This was hard work. Mr. Lind's place at the helm was taken by a native trader who had joined us. This man's features dif- fered from those of the Eskimos, and we were thus reminded of the fact that we were approaching the boundary line separating the Eskimos from the Ingaliks of the in- terior. All day Ave Avere passing along a range of high, snoAv-covered mountains. For the greater part of the way, however, these were hidden from our view b^' a lower, "wooded range, skirting the bank of the river. Occasionally Ave enjoyed a peep into pine-covered glens. As we came in sight of Koluuikovsky we were very much amused with Tetka, Mr. Lind's interpreter, who blew off a can and a half of powder Avith an old musket to give notice of our approach. At last, alter a journey of nine days from Mumtrekh- lagamute, we reached Kolmakovsky at 9 p. m., and right glad we were to enter Mr. Lind's hospitable dwelling. The Lord has wonderfully helped us thus far, and we belieA'e that He Avill aid us throughout the rest of our journeyings, and guide us to the attainment of our object, namely, the discovery of a suitable place for the estab- lishment of a mission amongst the Eskimos. July 4, Friday. — Mr. Lind having prepared a good bed for us on the floor, on a large spring mattress (a special luxury), aa-b had promised ourselves a good night's 7018 AL 5 66 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. rest. Scarcely had we laiu down, however, when tlie mosquitoes besau attacking us iu a most iiersisteiit manner. We bore it for a time, but at hist the buzzing of these little creatures increased to such an alarmiug extent that up we both started, almost simultaneously, to take vengeance ou our persecutors. A wholesale massacre com- menced, and continued by the light of a candle for at least an hour. At last, thinking we had completely got rid of these unwelcome visitors, we returned to our tine spring mattress. But, alas, our room was soon again tilled with fresh swarms of these in- sects. They got the better of us, and kept me, at least, awake all night. It is im- possible to ignore them. They, assert their presence far too demonstratively to admit of that. Kolmakovsky consists of seven log-buildings, built in the form of a square, open towards the river. That hexagonal erection, the fort iu days gone by, is forty years old. The church, an old building, with a rather rough interior, contains a few shabby oil paintings with candlesticks in front of them. The (ireek priest from the Yukon, a half-breed, conies hither everj( winter. On receiving notice of his intended visit, a number of natives assemble here, some of them from a considerable distance. The priest keeps no services ; his chief pastoral duty is to perform the marriage ceremony. The fact that this place is under Greek Church intlueuce militates against its selec- tion as the site of a mission station. - A beginning might be made here, how-ever, by opening a school, for though the pojtulation is lliin and scattered, there are a num- ber of "children in the place and neighborhood. Messrs. Lind and Zipri have seven, and their employes several. The former says there are about fifty children at Pai- mute, a village ten miles higher up the river. Juhi ."i, Saturday.— Wexe,, as was the case at the lower station, we are well enter- tained and cared for. The weather is still very changeable, being alternately bright and rainy. I was engaged for the greater part of the day in developing the photo- graphs taken ou our journey. Mr. Liud made Brother Weinland a present of a beau- tiful paika, or skin coat, and a pair of boots. July ii, Sunday. — Mr. Liud having paid oft' his men, they had all left, and the place seemed quiet in consequence. The a\ eather continued dull and showery. Wherever our miesionaries may ultimately settle, they cannot but feel isolated and lonely in this country. All the white traders we have met with have adopted native women as their partners. The civilized Eskimo women seem very decorous in their manners and behavior. Their children are of prepossessing appearance, are dressed in Euro- pean fashion, and are trained in the ways of their white fathers. July 7, Monday. — The weather was wet all day, and everything in our tent feels damp. It is astonishing to us that we do not suffer from this trying weather, but the Lord wonderfully preserves us from all harm. Mr. Lind has the finest Eskimo dogs we have met with. I succeeded iu photo- graphing his favorite. One drawback attending the.se dogs, however, is the noise they make at night. One begins the howling, another joins him in a different key, a third and a fourth swell the discordant chorus, and each terrible outburst lasts at least five minutes, with various crescendos and diminuendos. We were frequently obliged to laugh at the very absurdity of the uproar, though it invariably roused us from our sleep. The next day Brother Weinland and I went ten miles up the river to see the village Napaimute. We found a few barrabaras, all in a dilapidated condition, and not many inhabitants. The journey thither took two hours and a quarter, but we returned with the stream iu fifty-five minutes. Juhi 9, Wednesday.— Cheered by the promising appearance of the weather, we began packing up our things after breakfast. Hitherto we had been cared for by the traders, but now we were about to be cast entirely upon our own resources. We were obliged to make our way back to Nushagak iu our long skin-boats, a distance of about COO miles. Equipping ourselves with the provisions necessary for the comparatively short journey to Mumtrekhlagamute, we left Kolmakovsky at 2.20 p. m., after bidding good-bye to Messrs. Lind and Dormeutotif and their wives, who had still before them a 20 days' tedious journey up the river to Venizali. Mr. Lind kindly lent us one of his boats, as one of ours had been left at Nicolai's for repairs. He also sent with us a young native about sixteen years of age, as a fourth oarsman, the elder Washili having been left at Mumtrekhlaoamute to superintend the repairing of oue of our boats. The weather was fair, and we traveled so rapidly that in five hours we trav- ersed a distance which had been a two-days' journey in coming up the stream. We stopped at the spot which had been our second last haltiug-place when ascending the river. Here the natives lighted a fire, and presently our supper of tea, bread, and fried salmon was ready. A little before nine we resumed our journey, intending to proceed all night if possible. At midnight we found that we had traveled as far as in three days whilst^ascending the stream, and thought it best to encamp for the re- mainder of the night. Not having been able to secure an old tent for our men, we shared ours with the younger Washili and the boy, leaving the other two to find shelter as best they might. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 67 July 10, Thursday. — Contrary to our expectations, it rained during the night. Whilst we were having our breakfast the weather cleared somewhat, and we again started on our way a little after 11. Whi'o we stopped for dinner oif the village of Ugavik, a number of natives came in 1 heir bark canoes to see us, astonished, no doubt, by the unusual sight of white men on the river. Here we procured a large salmon iu exchange for a small piece of tobacco. Starting again we had a race with the natives, which caused great amusement ro all. Soon the I'ain began again in right good earn- est. The traveler sitting in the bidarka up to his waist is better able to protect himself against -the wet than when seated in the open skin-boats, provided he is furnished with a rain-coat, such as we, unfortunately, had not. Our heavy rubber coats, made to open in front, were not sufficient to protect us from the wet. I may here give my readers a description of the native rain-coat, such as we procured at a later stage of our journey. It is made of the intestines of the seal or walrus, so closely sewn together by native women as to be waterproof. The shape is that of a wide shirt, opening at the top into a hnofi, titting closely round the head. The coat is tied round the outside circular rim of the hole in which the traveler is seated, and in this way the rain is i)revented from entering the boat. The garment is made so large and roomy that its wearer can pull iu his arms and warm his hands iii his coat pockets. As we did not yet enjoy this protection, we were obliged to fortify our- selves agaiust the wet by means of our rubber coats and blankets. The lad who had accompanied us from Kolmakovsky, having nothing on but an old dilapidated skin parka., got thoroughly wet. The poor fellow was naturally very talkative, and had hitherto kept up a constant chatter with the others, but now re- lapsed into silence. He shivered all over and seemed no longer able to paddle. Having passed otir tifth camping place of the upward voyage, our men redoubled their exertions, and we soon reached a small fishing station occupied by only two Eskimo families. Here we halted for the night. The natives were very friendly and obliging. As this place is situated near one of the pine forests here and there skirt- ing the river, the mosquitoes were very troublesome. We are gradually getting into the way of cooking our own meals, and being in good health, are able thankfully to enjoy whatever the Lord gives us. To-daj^ we traveled about sixty miles. July 11, Friday. — We set off again at 8.30 a. m., the weather being tine, though the sky was clouded. Traveling is pleasant enough as long as the rain keeps off, and the wind drives away the mosquitoes. After dinner an aged native, evidently suffering from some complaint, tried to ex- plain to us the nature of his disease, but in vain. A few pills seemed to satisfy him. Poor fellow! how we wished we could help him. The missionaries who may be ap- pointed to the work in Alaska ought to have some medical knowledge. At 7.30 p. m. we stopped to take supper not far from the place where we had passed the tirst night after leaving Mumtrekhlagamute on our way up the river. During the afternoon's voyage the water, lashed by the wind into considerable waves, occasionally washed over the forepart of our boats, wetting the man in the front hole. At 8.15 p. m. we se* out once more, with the intention of reaching Nicolai's station that night if possible. Our oarsmen making every exertion, we arrived at Mum- trekhlagamute about 10 p. m. We thus completed the first stage of our homeward journey, having traversed a distance of about 240 miles iu two and a half days. Every one at the station seemed to have retired to rest, but presently all were astir, and our boats were soon hauled on shore and unloaded. After partaking of a cup of tea and some bread and butter, prepared for us by Mrs. Nicolai, we retired to our tent, thank- ful to the Lord for having pres( rved us thus far on our way down the river. July 1*2, Saturday. — During the night the wind was high, shaking our tent consider- ably, though not disturbing us. We learnt from Nicolai that his trading journeys extend to the low country lying along the coast between the Kuskokwim and the Yukon, and even to the island of Nunivak. Missionaries settled here would be able to travel about in comi^any with Nicolai aiicl have the benefit of his assistance. We learnt to like him and his wife, they were so quiet, i)leasant, and obliging. Nicolai is very anxious to learn English, of which language he has some slight knowledge. He would soon attain a certain degree of proficiency, and would then make an excellent interpreter for the mission- aries on such journeys. He hopes and expects that the missionaries will settle at his station. July 13, Sunday. — About mid-day, the weather promising to clear up, old Washili insisted upon starting. We told him that we should continue our journey on the morrow, but were not ready to do so to-day. Nicolai very promptly settled him by telling him to go alone if he was in such a hurry to be off; the other three did not manifest the same impatience. July 14, Monday. — I bought from Nicolai an old tent for the use of our men, and a skin parka, which his sister enlarged and made comfortable for me. We sold him our rifle, as we had not found any use for it. Our equipment for our three weeks' journey to Nushagak involved quite a formidable 68 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. list of articles. Our sii))itlie8 incIiuUd : tea, 5 pounds; sugar, 30 pounds; salt, 1 paorkel; ground cofit'ee, 2 tins; butter, 1 tin; pei)i)er, 1 tin; condensed milk, G tins; canned fruits, 1 dozen tins ; jiilot bread, 1 box. Further, we bad with us a shot-gun, with aiuuiunition, a lent, tberuiMueter, harometer, telescope, compass, saw, hatchet, ax, spade, matches, candles, two satchels containing a change of underclothing, our bed- ding, the ])hotographing apparatus, and, for purposes of barter with the natives, two pieces of jiriuted calico, together with au assortment of knives, pijjcs, beads, and forty-ftlur pounds of tobacco. How sucli a quantily of things were to be packed into or onto oup two bidarkas it was hard to say. But it was accomplished. These last are 27 feet long, about 22 inches wide, and a loot deep at the center hole, tapering fore and aft to a point. The boats were covered with skins of the sea lion, and fun.ishcd with holes tor three oc- cupants. After ]»acking all our things into bundles sufficiently small, we put them through these holes and pushed them into the corners with a stick. We had to be careful to leave i-oom for our legs, as we were obliged to sit with ihem stretched out, being unalile to assume the crouching posture of the natives. Our tent poles, frying pans, and other articles of iucouvenieut shape were fastened by straps to the tojt of the boats. Thus equipped and ready for our long return journey to Nushagak, we bade farewell to Nicolai and his family. At 8 a. m. our boats were launched, and we took our s^ats, each in the center hole of his respective bidarka. Our bedding, being folded up, served as a cushion. The text for the day was : " There failed not aught of any good thing which the Lord had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass." (Josh, xxi, 45.) We looked back on the past with thankfulness, and forward to the future with confidence and courage. He who has helped us hitherto — Will help us all our jonruey through. Six miles from Mumtrekhlagamute lies Napaskiachamute, on the left bank of the river. It would appear to be a large village, and to be sufficiently near the trading post to be readily accessible to missionaries stationed there. A two hours' voyage thence brought us in sight of Napahaiagamute, lying not far from the high laud on the right bank of the stream. Towards noon we reached Lomavigamute, where we procured some tish in exchange for a little tobacco, and enjoyed a good dinner. The wind by this time had abated, and the water was as smooth as glass. Traveling under such circumstances was most pleasant. Far away on the southwestern horizon blue sky appeared, an indication of coming fine weather. All felt cheered and hope- ful. The ebb tide favoring our course, towards evening we pitched our tents for the night at the village of Naghaikhlavigamute. Our boats with their cargoes were car- ried up the bank and placed on the grass near our tents. This was our usual mode of procedure w^heu camping for -the night. July 1.5, Tuesday. — We started at 8 a. m., with the ebb of the tide, and hoped to make good progress during the day, the weather being fine ; but our men took it into their heads to work across the river, the opposite bank of which was just visible. About noon, therefore, we landed at a village on the other side, called Chlugachamute. Here our crews gave us to understand that they would not be able to proceed until the tide was again up, and we were obliged to wait there for three weary hours. We examined th^ village, and found it to be one of the dirtiest we had seen. It is situ- ated on a very small and very muddy creek, left dry at low tide. Rotten fish lay all around, offensive both to sight and smell. The staple food of the Eskimos consists of fish found in such abundance that the people are inexcusably wasteful in their use of them. The natives eat them either raw or dried, or in the first stage of putrefaction. To produce this they dig a hole in the ground, into which they place grass or matting; they then fill the cavity with fish, covering it over with grass and earth. The heads and roes of salmon are sub- jected to the same treatment. The latter, from being a beautiful pink hue, become ■white and slimy. I was able to eat the dried fish, but, unless in a famished condition, could not bring myself to touch what was partly decomposed. At last we continued our journey. When in the middle of the stream we only just succeeded in passing over a mudbank. Then we understood why our crews had ■waited for the tide. Having been without food since morning, and the sun's rays being hot and untem- pered by any refreshing breeze, I became very drowsy and fell asleep. Presently I was awakened by the voiceof Brother Weinland, as he endeavored to induce our crews to proceed on their way. Our boats were lying alongside one another, and some of the young men had gone to sleep. At last Brother Weinland succeeded in persuading them to move on. Reaching Apokachamute early in the evening, we were obliged to encamp here for the night, as our men were unwilling to proceed any farther. A number of natives assisted in hauling our boats up the steep banks. We were both very hungry, and ate with great relish our supper of fried salmon, bread and butter,. f BIDARKA TIJAVELIXG; liEADY TO STAHT. fFrom a photograph l)> Messrs. Hartiuann & "U'einland. ESKIMO VILLAGE, KIYACK, DOG-SLEU, ETC. From a photojriapli by Messrs. Harliuann & Weinland. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 69 anA canned peaches. Whilst preparing; supper, we observed a funeral proces.sion makinjj its way towards the place of bnrial. Some men carrvinf; a rude coffin headed the humble cortege, then came others bearing the dead body wrapped in fur. The remains of the departed were followed by the bereaved widow and children, and by other persons carryin. A communication from Mr. A. H. Allen, master of the city school, asking for an in- crease of his salary from $25 to l|40 was presented, when Mr. Corcoran presented res- olution 105, increasing the school teacher's salary to $35 per mouth from and after this 16th day of January, which, on motion, was adopted. On motion of Mr. Burns, Mess''s. Corcoran, McKuight, and Lieutenant Mitchell were appointed a board of school trustees for the ensuing year. WM. H. WOOD, Mauor. Hall of City Council, January 28, 1673. . A communication from George R. McKnight, esq., tendering his resignation as a member of the board of trustees of the Sitka public school, was read, and on motion his resignation was accepted ; whereupon Henry E. Cutter was elected to till the va- cancy. On motion Maj. J. Stewart was elected to till a vacancy in said board of trus- tees, occasioned by the departure of Lieutenant Mitchell. Hall of City Council, Fciruary 4, 1873. A communication from Maj. J. Stewart, thanking the council for the compliment paid him in electing him a member of the board of school trustees. P. Burns's bill for wood furnished public school at sundry times, amount $2, was or- dered paid. Appendix K. In the district court of the United States for the district of Alaska. At a term thereof begun and held at Sitka (May term) on the 5th day of October, 1885. Present, the honorable Edward J. Dawne, judge. The following order was made and entered of record, to wit : In the United States district court for the district of Alaska. The United States ) V. > On indictment for obstructing public roads. Sheldon Jackson. On indictments Nos. 19,20, and 21. In the.se causes the indictments are set aside and defendant's bail exonerated upon motion of the United States district attorney, made for the reason that the indict- ments are neither of them indorsed "A true bill" and such indorsement signed by the foreman of the grand jury, as required by sec. 6, ch. vii, page 348, and applied by sec. 115, ch. s, page 355, criminal code of Oregon, upon sec. 715, ch. x, page 445, of which said indictments are founded, and which omission has been held by the court as sufficient ground for dismissal in case No. 18. And the district attorney asks to have it spread upon the record that he will not, of his own motion, nor, unless required to act upon the complaint of some party who shall feel aggrieved by the alleged obstruction, take further action in the premises, for the reasons : (1) That the code of Oregon, sec. 5, ch. 1, page 461, provides, in express terms, that offenses defined in section 715 (under which theseindictments are found) shall be subject to the jurisdiction of justices of the peace, whose authority is conferred on United States commissioners in this district under section 5 of the organic act. (2) That the known and well-defined facts which constitute the alleged offense are not such as, in his opinion, would warrant a conviction by a trial jury, the obstruc- 80 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. tiou in one case being purely technical and not supported by reason for its application, and in the others an alteration having been made which comes within the spirit of the Oregon law (its letter not beingcapable of being applied f(n' want of county court machinery), in that it not only does not " materially increase the distance, to the in- jury of the public," but in fact is in all respects "equalto the old for the convenience of travelers," and will be, when completed, superior. Which re(inest is granted. EDWARD J. DAWNE, District Judge. TiiK United States of America, District of Alaska, ss : I, A. T. Lewis, clerk of the United States district court for the district of Alaska, do hereby certify that the foregoing copy of an order of court, made on the 5th day of October, IS-^."), of the May term, Hon. Edward J. Dawue, judge, has been by me compared with the original, and that it is a correct transcript therefrom and of the whole of such original, as the same appears of record on the journal at my ofHce and in my custody. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said court, at Sitka, in said district, this 5th day of October, 1835. [seal.] ANDREW T. lewis, Clerk. Appendix L. STATEMENT OF FACTS IX RELATION TO THE TROUBLES IN THE tITKA IN'DIAN INDUS- TRIAL ^JS'D TRAINING SCHOOL AT SITKA, ALASKA, IN 1685, BY PROF. A. J. DAVIS, THEN SUPERINTENDENT OF THE TRAINING SCHOOL AT SITKA, ALASKA, NOW CON- NECTED WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION OF THE STATE OF PENN- SYLVANIA. On the 11th day of March, 1885, I arrived at Sitka, Alaska, and at once assumed charge of the Inclian school as its superintendent. The steamer on which I traveled from Portland, Oreg., to Sitka had among its pas- sengers an Indian wt)man who took passage at Victoria, B. C. From all that I ob- served while on board the steamer, together with what I gathered from conversation ■with others on the route, I had every reason to believe the woman to be of very doubt- ful character. This woman claimed to be a cousin of one of the young girls in the training school, and soon after her arrival at Sitka she had issued a writ of habeas corpus for the person of the young girl in question. The girl was taken before Hon. Ward McAllister, United States district judge. As soon as I heard of the proceeding I hastened to the court. This was about 9 o'clock p. m. When I arrived in the court- room the evidence for the plaintiff was almost all heard. When I succeeded in gain- ing the attention of the court I stated that I was now superintendent of the school and desired to be heard, adding that from what I had seen and heard while on board the steamer I did not regard the woman as a fit person to whom to conlide a young girl. The court refused to hear me further, and peremptorily decided that the woman could take the girl, w^hich she did accordingly, and left on the steamer early on the following morning. Neither time nor opportunity was given me to secure counsel or make a defense. Subsequent events did not change my opinion of the character or purpose of the woman. The effect of the rulings of the court in this and a subsequent case was to cause almost one half of the children to run away from the school, and to prejudice the natives against placing other children in the institution. The fate of many of the larger girls who ran away may be inferred. A letter just received from one of the emidoy6s of the school states: " One of the Home girls who ran away last summer came up to the house sobbing as if her heart would break, and begged us to take her back again. She had lived a very wicked life since leaving the Home, so with aching hearts we were compelled to refuse her." I have many reasons to believe that some of the civil officers at that time in the Territory were inimical to th,e school and were responsible for much harm done. My connection with the school made me cognizant of much that Hon. Sheldon Jack- son did while he had charge of the institution, and while I was in the Territory I failed to see any disregard on his part of the lawful rights of parents and citizens. His zeal, energy, and thorough devotion to the work are to be commended. He was- abused and persecuted by those who should have seconded his efforts, and many acts were resorted to in order to hinder his plans. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 81 I deem it due to Dr. Jackson that the above facts should be known, and that he should be permitted to complete the work he has begun and continued with so much efficiency and personal sacrifice. A. J. DAVIS. St'atk of Pennsylvania, County of Dnuphin, ss : On the 6th day of February, A. D. 1886, personally appeared before me, a notary public, residing in the said city,* A. J. Davis, who, having been duly affirmed accord- ing to law, deposeth that the facts set forth in the foregoing statement are correct to the best of his knowledge and belief. A. J. DAVIS. -Affirmed and subscribed before me the day and year aforesaid. [SEAL.] ' "^ J. WESLEY AWL, Notary Fublic. Appendix M. Annual report of training school at Sitka, Alaska, for 1884-'S5. Sitka, Alaska, July 1, 1885. Sir: I have the honor to send you the following annual report of the Indian in- dustrial and training school, Sitka, Alaska, for the year ending June 30, 188.'>: As this is the first report to your office from this school, a brief preliminary state- ment is in order. In the spring of 1876 nine Tsimpsheau Indians came up the coast from Port Simp- son, British Columbia, and took a contract for cutting wood for the military post then at Fort Wrangell, Alaska. At the close of their contract, in the fall, as they were about returning to Port Simpson, Clah. who had been the leader among those Indians, was persuaded to remain and open a school. Such was the anxiety of the ])eople to learn that his school was attended by 60 to 70 adults, -besides children. "These people," said a sailor, " are crazy to learn. Going up the beach last night I overheard an Indian girl spell- ing words of one and two syllables. Upon looking into the house, I found that, un- able to procure a school-book, she was learning from a scrap of newspaper that she had picked up." Touched by the eagerness of this people to learn, a soldier at the post wrote to Major-General Howard, then in command of that military district, asking if some society could not be interested to send them a competent teacher. The letter was placed in my hands in May, 1877, and immediately published in the Chicago Tribune. To gain a better understanding of this movement of the natives for a school, I made them a visit in August, 1877. In passing through Portlaud I found a teacher who had had large experience in mission work and Indian schools — Mrs. A. R. McFarlaud — wliom I took with me. Going ashore upon our arrival, August 10, I heard the ringing of the bell for the afternoon school, and went directly to the school house. About twenty pupils were in attendance, mostly young Indian women. Two or three boys were present; also a mother and her three little children. As the women took their seats on the rough plank benches each one bowed lier head in silent prayer, .seeking divine helj) in her studies. Soon a thoughtful ludiau man of about twenty-five years of age came in and took his seat behi'nd the rude desk. The familiar hymn "What a friend we have in Jesus" was sung in English; a iirayer followed in the Chinook jargon, which is the conmion language of the various tribes on this coast, closing with the repetition, in concert, of the Lord's Prayer in English. After lessons were studied and recited, the school arose, sung the long-meter doxology, and recited in concert the benedic- tion. Then the teacher said, " Good afternoon, my pupils,'" to which came the kindly response, " Good afternoon, teacher." , The school was in full operation, but under great difficulties. They greatly needed maps and charts ; they were also in great need of a school-house. At the time of my visit they were renting a dance-hall for a school-room. Upon the return of the miners for the winter tlie hall had to be given up, and the school was held in a dilapidated log house. I found their stock of books inventoried as follows: four small Bibles, four hymn books, three primers, thirteen first readei's, and one wall chart. Mrs. McFarlaud was at once placed in charge of the school, with Clah as an assist- ant, and Mrs. Sarah Dickinson, a Christian Tongass Indian, as interpreter. Early in the history of her school Mrs. McFarlaud found a difficulty in holding her girl pupils. According to the customs of their people, they were frequently hired or sold by their own mothers to white men and others for base purposes. And the brighter the girl * Harriaborg. 7018 AL G 82 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. the greater her danger; for, as she improved in the school, she began to dress more neatly, comb her hair, and keep her jierson more cleanly ; the dnll, stolid cast of coun- tenance gave way to the light of intelligence, and she began to be more attractive, and consequently in greater demand. To save these girls necessitated the estab- lishment of a "home" into which they could be gathered, and thus taken out from under the control of their mothers. Consequently a home was added to the school in October, 1878, and kept in what was formerly the hospital building of the mili- tary post. In July, 1879, I made a second trip to Alaska, taking with me Miss Maggie J. Dun- bar, of Steubenville, Ohio, as teacher. Relieved from the care of the school-room, Mrs. McFarland was able to give her whole time to the boarding and industrial de- partments. Duriug that season I commenced the erectiou of a large two-story building, with basement and attic, 40 by 60 feet, for the use of the home and school, which was com- pleted the following season at an expense of $7,600. In March, 1882, the school was divided, Rev. John W. McFarland taking the boys' and Miss Dunbar the girls' department. lu Septeijiber, 1882, Miss Kate A. Rankin was placed in charge of the industrial department. On the 9th of February, 1883, the school buildings were burned to the ground, and the school again found shelter in the old military hospital. In the summer of 1884 the school teachers and pupils were removed to Sitka. In the winter of 1877-'78 I secured the appointment of Rev. John G. Brady for Sitka, and in April, 1878, a school was opened by Mr. Brady and Miss Fannie E. Kel- logg. In December, through a combination of circumstances, it was discontinued. In the spring of 1880 Miss Oliuda Austin was sent out from New York City, and re- opened the school April 5, iu one of the rooius of the guard-house, with 103 children present. This number increased to 130. Then some of the parents applied for ad- mission, but could not be received, as the room would not hold any more. Miss Aus- tin received the support and substantial assistance of Captain Beardslee, then in command of the United States ship Jamestown, Lieutenant Simonds, and other naval officers, who proved themselves warm friends of the enterrrise. In July the school was moved to the old hospital building. In November some of the boys ai>plied to the teacher for permission to live at the school-house. At home there was so much drinking, talking, and carousing that they could not study. The teacher said she had no accommodations, bedding, or food for them. But they were so much iu earnest that they said they would provide for themselves. Upon receiving permission, seven Indian boys, thirteen and fourteen years of age, bringing a blanket each and a piece of tin for a looking-glass, voluntarily left their homes and took up their abode in a vacant room of one of the G»vernment buildings. Thus commenced the boarding department of the Sitka school. Soon other boys joined them. One was a boy who had been taken out to be shot as a witch, but was rescued by the offlcers of the Jamestown and placed in the school. Capt. Henry Glass, who succeeded Captain Beardslee iu command of the Jamestown, from the first, with his officers, took a deep interest in the school. As he has had opportunity he secured boys from distant tribes and placed them in the school. In February, 1881, Captain Glass established a rule compelling the attendance of the Indian children upon the day school, which was a move in the right direction and has worked admirably. He first caused the Indian village to be cleaned up, ditches dug around each house for drainage, and the houses whitewashed. These sanitary regulations greatly lessened the sickness and death-rate among them. He then caused the houses to be numbered, and an accurate census taken of the inmates — adults and children. He then caused a label to be made of tin for each child, which was tied around the neck of the child, with his or her number and the number of the house on it, so that if a child was found on the street during school hours the Indian police- man was under orders to take the numbers on the labels and report them, or the teacher each day would report that such numbers from such houses were absent that day. The following morning the head Indian of the house to which the absentee belonged was summoned to appear and answer for the absence of the child. If the child was willfully absent^ the head man was fined or imprisoned. A few cases of fine were sufficient. As soon as they found the captain in earnest, the children were all in school. In April Mr. Alonzo E. Austin was appointed principal of the school and Mrs. Aus- tin was appointed matron. On the 24th of January, 1882, the old Russian log hospital building that sheltered theschool was burned, and the pupils were placedin anabandoued Government stable, which was roughly fitted iip for them. w 5 ^ r !z; r EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 83 In the Slimmer of that yeai, Tiy tlio advice of the naval commander, the collector of customs, and a few of the leading citizens, I selected a tiact of land outside the village as a permanent location for the school, and erected "Austin -Hall," a large, two-story building, 100 by 50 feet in size. Mr. Walter B. Styles was placed in charge of the in- dustrial department. NKW BUILDINGS, ETC. During the fall and winter of 18ir4 the following buildings were erected: Central Hall, a two-story fiame building, 1:30 by 50 feet in size; this building contains school rooms, dining hall and kitchens both for school and teachers' mess, sewing rooms, girls' dormitory, teachers' r«A)ms, &c.; it was occupied January 1, 18b5. A laundry, one aud one- half story, 20 by 'Uli U et ; a bakery, ( ne and one-half story, 14 by 25 feet ; and a wagon-shed, 30 by 10 feet. Iron pipes have been laid lor half a mile from the buildings to Indian Kiver, fur- nishing the institution with an abundant supply of pure soft water. EMPLOYES. Sheldon Jackson (July, 1884, to March, 1885), superintendent. A. J. Davis (March to June), sui)eriutendent. William A. Kelly (June), superintendent. Eev. Alonzo E. Austin, assistant superintendent and chaplain. Johu Walker (Indian, July to March), industrial teacher. Thomas Heaton (March to June), industrial teacher. Mrs. A. E. Austin, matron boys' department. Mrs. A. R. McFarland, matron girls' department. Miss Kate A. Rankin, sewing department. Miss Margaret Dauphin, laundry and kitchen. Miss R. A. Kelsey, school-room. W. D. McLeod, machinist. M. Cragiu, watchman and assistant. David Jackson (native), boot and shoe department. Sergeant Myers, U. S. N., volunteer drill master. There have been in connection with the school during the year 47 boys and 90 girls, making a totaV attendance of 137. The average age of the boys has been 14 years and of the girls 10^. There have been one marriage and three deaths. One of the girls married the inter- preter of the Takoo Mission. A boy and a girl have died of consumption and a girl of pneumonia. This was the first death in the boys' depaitment during the five years' history of the school. The several tribes are represented as follows : Tribe. Boys. Girls. Total. 22 16 3 1 4 12 10 10 1 3 3 30 6 5 3 1 3 1 2 34 Kaksahtes of Sitka 26 13 2 7 Yakatat 3 30 Chilkat 1 7 Takoo 5 3 1 Stick 3 Hydah 1 2 Total 47 90 137 On account of causes hereafter mentioned the school closes the year with only 26 boys and 33 girls. Total present attendance, {)<). All the pupils are required to be in the school-room half the day and the work-rooms the other half. In the school-rooms they pursue the studies usual to the primary aud intermediate grades, aud are making fair progress when it is considered that their studies are in. 84 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. to them, a forei'j;n language. An analogous position would be to attempt to instruct the children of New York or Massachusetts in arithmetic, geography, grammar, &c., through the medium of Chinese teachers and text-books. Without any legal power on the i)art of the teachers or public sentiment atnong the parents, to hold the chil- dren, and with the direct or indirect opjiositiou of several of the Government officials, it has been very difficult to exercise the authority necessary to secure the best results in speaking English. INDUSTRIAL. All the mauual labor of the institution is performed by the children themselves un- der the supervision and instruction of the teachers. There is not a hired servant about the establishment. The older and more advanced girls in charge of the divi- sions and of the teachers' kitcheu are paid a small compensation ; also the older boys in the carpenter shop. THE GIRLS. The girls are divided into three classes and serve in rotation iu each of the three divisions. (1) Kitchen a»d diniiu/ department. — Much of the time and strength of this depart- ment is taken up in the necessary work of providing the daily meals. More and more attention will, however, be given to training the pupils in the best method of cooking meats, fish, and vegetables, the preparation of corned, smoked, and pickled meats and fish; the drying and preserving of berries ; the care of winter vegetables ; making yeast and l)aking bread; the care of milk; butter and cheese making; the proper washing of dishes and care of kitchen utensils, and the care of store-room and pantry ; also the setting, waiting vipou, and clearing off of tables ; the care of knives, forks, spoons, &c. (2) The dormitort/ and sewing department. — In the dormitory, halls, &c., the girls attend to the sweeping and scrubbing of floors, dusting, and orderly arrangement of furniture; making of beds; care of slops; simple adornment of walls; cleaning and care of lamps; care of clothes, closets, bedding, &c. As they have nothing of this in their native homes it is a long step forwai'd in their civilization. In the sewing department they are taught the usual cuttiut:' aud making of clothes ; the changing, mending, aud patching of garments ; knitting and darning ; practice with the sewing machine, &c. They are fond of aud excel iu sewing aud knitting, aud it is doubtful whether any equal number of white girls gathered promiscuously into a school would do as well. (3) The laundri/ department. — In addition to the usual weekly washing and ironing of the clothes, bedding, &c., of the pupils, special instruction will be given in the manufacture of lye from wood ashes, of soft-soap and starch. THE BOYS. The boys in a general way are divided into two classes for work. The smaller ones cut and carry in the fire-wood, keep the grounds cleaned up, and do the chores gen- erally. The larger ones cut and raft the logs for fire-wood, draw the seine wheu fish- ing, and work in the carpenter-shop. j\Iuch of the work of the past year, of extract- ing stum))s, grading and ditching land, rafting logs aud lumber, procuring and carry- ing rock for foundations and lumber for the buildings from the beach (there are uo horses or oxen here) has been done by tlie boys of the school. They also did much of the work of erecting the main central building of the institution — a house two and a half stories high, 130 feet long, and .^)0 feet wide. This was done under the super- vision of the head or " boss" carpenter, John Walker, himself a full-blooded Indian, educated at the Forest Grove Indian School. Having no roads or appliances for getting logs out of the woods, the custom of the country is to find a suitable tree so near the ocean shore that, when cut, it will fall into the water. The logs are lashed together, and when the tide is in the right direction froated to their destination. The available trees near to Sitka having been cut oft", the schoolboys are compelled to go from 8 to 12 miles away for their annual supply of fire-wood.' This adds greatly to the ftitigue aud dauger of the work. Our boats have been driveu ashore, aud occasionally a raft scattered by a storm, but so far no lives have been lost, and the boys have gained practice in seamanship. FISHERIES, ETC. A seine has been provided and the boys have packed thirty-four barrels of choice salmon for the use of the school. As fish is one of the chief commercial commodi- • EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 85 ties of the country, and one which will furnish the natives with an ample and relia- ble means of support, special attention will be given to it. The boys will be instructed in the names, habits, and commercial value of the Nariouskiuds of fish in their waters ; improved methods of taking and preparing tln'oi for market : the making and mend- ing of nets; the managenient and repair of boats; rope-sjdicitig and sail-making; swimming; naval drill ; together with instruction concerning the tides and the use of the compass. CAItPEXTER SHOP. The erection of buildings for the institution during the i)ast year has given a special impetus to wood work. The native races on this coast are noted for their skill in the manufacture of canoes, and carving in wood, stone, and metals, so that the boys very readily and (juickly become skillful in the use of tools. As an encouragement to the boys, the scho(d has very properly been given the contract of making the school fur- nituie for all the Government schools in Alaska. During the coming year some atten- tion will be given to the manufacture of household furniture. It is also hoped that a cooper-shoj) may be opened to provide barrels and casks for the salting of hsh. AGRICULTURAL DEPARTMENT. An injunction having been served on the officers of the school, through the malice ol United States District Attorney IJaskett and Judge McAllister, preventing work on the school property at the time the vegetable garden should have been planted, but little has been raised this season. In previous seasons the school garden has been the mcst flourishing one in the place. Since the dissolving of the injunction by the court, considerable has been done in removing stun^ps, and grading antl ditching land. It would be well if the Government would set apart a special sum for carrying on, in connection with the school, of an EXPERIMENTAL FARM. There is a wide diversity of views concerning the agricultural and horticultural capabilities of this region, and necessarily great ignorance. The early Russian set- tlers were here for furs, and the more recent Americans for trading and mining. No systematic eftbrt intelligently prosecuted has been made to ascertain what can or cannot be raised to advantage. The industrial and training school of this distant and but little known section of the United States furnishes a basis for a department that shall make careful experiments extending over a term of years to ascertain the vegetables, grains, grasses, berries, and small fruits, apples and larger fruits, trees, flowers, &c., best adapted to the country: the best methods of cultivating, gather- ing, and curing the same; tree planting, and grafting of fruit trees; the develop- ment of the wild cranberry; cattle, hog, and poultry raising; and butter and cheese making. If the Government will determine what can be done in this direction, both settlers and the natives will utilize the information gained. Such a course will add both to the wealth of the country and the comfort of the people. BOOT AND SHOE SHOP. No systematic training has yet been given in this important department, although considerable has been done in the way of repairing shoes. More and more prominence will be given this department as the work develops. HOSPITAL DEPARTMENT. As the work of the school becomes more systematized, special instruction will be given both sexes in phjsiology, the laws of health, common sanitary regulations, simple remedies, treatment of accidents (particularly cuts and gunshot wounds), treatment of persons rescned from drowning; cooking for, waiting upon, and nursing the sick. OFFICIAL INTERFERENCE AND THE RESULTS. The native races upon this coast are a docile people and easily influenced by those in authority. While the country was under naval rule Captains Glass, Beardslee, Lull, and others gave their in fluence in favor of the school, and the school room was crowded with pupils. 86 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. • III the fall of 18S4 the naval rule was superseded by that of the civil government. As the securing of the civil goveruiueut was largely dueto the friends of the school (Report of Coniinissiouer of Education for 1832-'8:}'), they had a right to expect the friendly co-operation of tlie new officials. Further, the native races compose lifteeu-sixteeuths of the population to be cared for, and have a claim upon the attention of the officers. Still further, Congress had voted an appropriation for the education of these people, and the most important services the officers could render the Government and the country was to throw their whole official influence in favor of the education of the native races up to American citizenship. Had tliey done this — had they followed the example of the naval commanders that had preceded them, and made the natives feel that the officers really desired the regular attendance of the children at school — all of the native schools would have continued to make prog- ress and pi'oduce results satisfactory to the Government. But, very strangely and unexpectedly Governor Kinkead (the few weeks he spent in Alaska of the year he was governor). United States Judge Ward McAllister, jr., United States Marshal Hillyer, and Deputy Marshal Sullivan, directly or indirectly threw their influence against the schools, and the native parents soon learned that the officers did not care whether they sent their children to school or not. The most open opposition, however, came from United States District Attorney E. W. Haskett. Secretly pushed forward by others, as it is believed, he sought to disturb the school in the occupancy of the laud upon which are situated the school buildings and im- provements. Following the precedent made in the orgauization of the Territorj' of Oregon, and afterwards that of Washington, Congress in the organic act providing a civil govern- ment for Alaska euacted as follows: And provided also. That the laud, not exceeding 640 acres, at any station now occu- pied as missionary stations among the Indian tribes in said section, with the im- provements thereon erected by or for such societies, shall be continued in the occu- pancy of the several religious societies to which said missionary stations respectively belong until action by Congress. Mr. Haskett, working upon the race prejudice of the Russian Creoles, made them believe that the Government was giving to the Indians lauds that their children ■would some day need. This resulted in two or three so-called "citizens' meetings," mainly composed of Creoles, at which resolutions were adopted and sent to Washing- ton protesting against the industrial school being allowed the use of the land re- served by Congress for it. At these meetings the United States district attorney was the chief speaker, and in his incendiary harangues assured them that the school had no right to the laud where its buildings are, and that if any Russian wanted any of the laud claimed by the school all he had to do was to go and occupy it. As a con- sequence oue of the simple-minded Creoles vsrent into the front yard of the school, staked out the corners of a house, and commenced getting out the foundations. Sev- eral others were preparing to do the same thing. This necessitated the immediate construction of a fence in front of the school grounds. Upon the setting of the posts, Mr. Haskett encouraged the Creoles to make a complaint that the school was obstructing a jjublic highway, because the fence was not 30 feet from the center of a road used as a public highway, but which has no legal status as such. The fence was the same distance from the road as every other fence on it, and was built in uniformity with them. Through misrepresentations to the court an injunction was secured against all the officers and employes of the school forbidding the completion of the fence, the clearing out of underbrush and grading of the land, construction of walks, or even any work upou the school build- ings themselves. At the May term of court the injunction was dissolved, on a demurrer to the peti- tion, on the ground that the complainants were not adjoining property holders and had no legal right to complain. The same result would have been reached if the case had been tried on its merits, us all the allegations iu the complaint were untrue. Upon the acqusitiou of Alaska in 1867, a company of United States troops was sta- . tioned at Sitka. In procuring their fuel they first cut the trees accessible from the beach. When those nearest to the beach were gone, they naturally cut those adjoin- ing, all the time penetrating farther into the woods, and farther from the beach. After the first rise of ground at the beach the land is swampy, and iu order to get out the firewood the troops made a temporary corduroy road. The farther they penetrated the forest for wood the longer the road grew, until, when the troops were withdrawn iu 1877, it was nearly half a mile long. After the departure of the sol- diers the road was practically abandoned. It commences on the beach and abruptly terminates in the woods. Its commencement, ending, and whole course is on the laud reserved by Congress for the school. * See Appendix A. EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 87 In order to inclose the school bnildings and secnre better discipline, the snperin- tendent of the schools needed to fence across this former wood road. This he had a legal right to do, but be refrained from doing so until the school constructed a better I'oad at the side of the school grounds to take the place of the former wood road through them. The new road is better and more convenient to the villiige than the old one, and when extended will make a straight street from the beach to the cemetery. (.See the record of the court on the change of roads, page 79.) The cemetery has no road to it, but is reached by a trail through a swamp from tin; wood road. Any other community would cordially acquiesce in this change, better both for the school and the general public, but here, through the feeling created by District Attor- ney Haskett, the change is met with the threat of mob violence. The culmination of these difficulties occurred in March last. Upon the 11th of March the United States monthly mail steamer arrived, bringing an Indian woman of questionable character, w^ho claimed possession of one of the girls in the school. The girl is a half-breed, about twelve to fourteen years of age, and an orphan. . She is a good English scholar and quite attractive in her personal appearance. The woman claimed to be a relative (I believe a cousin). She had no papers of guardianship or any proof to support her claim; nor was she the guardian of the girl even according to Indian customs. The white father had left his illegit- imate child and her mother. The mother died. On her dying bed, as I was informed and believe, she gave the child to Mrs. A. R. McFarland, superintendent of the Girls' School and Home at Fort Wrangeli, to bring up in that school. And after the death of the mother the child was taken from her mother's house to Mrs. McFarland's. If any one was entitled to be considered the legal guardian of the child, in a country where, at the time, there was no law applicable to such a case, it was Mrs. McFar- land. The officers of the school very properly refused to let the child go. The woman then, at the instigation and with the assistance of some evil-disposed white men, took out a writ of habeas corpus. A special term of court was held at 8 o'clock in the evening. The officers of the school were refused a hearing,* and the girl was given into the cu.stody of the woman. Last winter an Indian sorcerer and his wife brought their daughter, about twelve years of age, and placed her in the school for five years. A short time afterwards, having an opportunity of selling her to some visiting Indians, they came and asked to lake her out of the' school. This was refused by the superintendent. They then oifered to send her brother in her place. The superintendent replied that he would take the boy if they wished, but would retain the girl. They then offered him $10 in money if he would let the girl go. Failing to procure her, they hired two Indians to steal her. These men were concealed in the woods near by, a week before they were discovered and captured. Whilw these events were transpiring the first girl had been taken from the school on a writ of habeas corpus. Encouraged by this, the same white men as in the first ca.se assisted the sorcerer in securing a writ, and the girl was pro- duced in court. Upon this occasion the judge ruled — (1) That the verbal contract of the Indian parents in placing their child in .school was not binding. (2) That as a white man cannot ii^ake a contract with an Indian a written contract would be illegal. {'^) That if the officers of the school attempted to restrain the children from run- ning away or leaviug whenever they wished, they would be liable to fine and impris- onment. Judge Dawne, who succeeded Mr. McAllister as U. S. judge of Alaska, upon open- ing his court took an early opportunity of reversing these decisions, and decided that the natives of Southeast Alaska were'not Indians; that they could make contracts, sue and be sued, and do whatever any one else could do before the law. The decisions of Judge McAllister left the officers powerless to maintain discipline. If a child failed in his les.sous, quarreled with his .schoolmates, neglected his work, or transgressed the rules of the school, and any attempt was made to correct him, in a fit of anger or sulkiuess he could leave the .school. The court had thrown the doors wide open, and evil-disposed men took special pains to inform the natives and encour- age them to remove their children from the school. To add to the difficulties of the situation, about that time one of the school girls died of pneumonia. She had careful unrsingand every needed attention, even to the medical attendance of the surgeon on the United States man-of-war, the Pinta. After the burial some one started the story that the matron had bewitched the girl and cau.sed her death. Soon there was an excited mob at the school clamoring; to take their children home for fear the matron would kill them also. If the civil officers had then used their influence with the Indians to quiet the excitement and keep the children in school, they would have succeeded, and both parents and children would have been thankful after it was all over. On the contrary, the marshal, the inter- ' See testimony of A. J. Davis, Appendix L. 88 EDUCATION IN ALASKA. preter, and especially tlie United States district attorney, helped tlie matter along, 80 that, through their influence and the superstitious fear of the Indians, in a few days forty-seven children were taken out of school and remanded back to the filth, superstition, degradation, and vice of their native condition. Among those removed from the school was a girl seventeen years of age who had been sold into prostitution by her own mother. In some way she had escaped and found both an asylum and a home in the school, but now she was turned loose to destruction. Another girl, of fifteen, and her sister ten years of age had been picked up on the beach at a mining camp. They were without friends or home, almost without cloth- ing, and in a starving condition. Through neglect and cruel treatment, the younger one was almost blind. These orphan sisters were taken into the school, fed, clothed, and kindly cared for. Medical attendance was provided and the blind one-restored to sight. The sisters were making fair progress when the break came and they were taken in charge by an aunt. The elder one was sent into prostitution, and the aunt is living ott" the wages of the child's shame. The younger one, in a few days, escaped from her relatives and returned to the school. When her aunt came for her she clung to one of the lady teachers and had to be taken away by force. Again she returned to the school and again was torn away. She returned the third time. It seemed so inhnman and outrageous to force the poor child into a life that she was making such desperate efforts to escape that the officers of the school refused to let her relatives have her, preferring that, if she must be taken away, the responsibility should rest upon the court. Another girl, of fourteen, when about to be sold into prostitution for the benefit of a distant relative, escaped from her grandmother, who was guarding her, and came to the school. As a result of the decision of the court, she, too, was remanded back to the care of her heathen relatives, and has been lost to a virtuous life. Another, a girl of about seventeen, was being sold into prostitution by her step- mother and aunt. The two women, quarreling over the division of the blood money, came to settle the dispute before Mr. A. T. Lewis, clerk of the court. Mr. Lewis, whose influeuce is on the side of humanity and the school, took the girl from her un- natural protectors, and placed her in the school. She, too, has gone back to her former abode of cruelty. Some three years ago, a little girl was accused of witchcraft. The tribe bound her ■with a rope. A stalwart chief, holding one end of the rope, walked in advance, drag- ging the child after him, while another came behind holding the other end of the rope. These men were the admiration of the tribe for their bravery in holding be- tween them a puny, starved girl of ten. She was rescued by Professor Austin, who was in charge of the school, and given a home. During the troubles she was returned to the tribe, and may yet be tortured to death as a witch. Another was the slave of a prominent chief. After his death his two widows treated her so cruelly that she ran away, and was found hid under the church. She was taken into the school and furnished protection and a home. A man that married one of the widows claimed her as his property, and tried to get possession of her, but in vain. But now that the school is powerless to protect the orphan, the escaped slave, and the helpless child, she has gone out from under its care, and her future re- mains to be seen. Another, to prevent being married to her stepfather and becoming a plural wife with her own mother, ran away and came to the school. P\)r a long time she did not dare visit her mother, and when at length she ventured to visit home, they locked her up in a room to keep her. After some days she again escaped and returned to the school. Now under the hostile influences that surrounded the school, she has been led away, and is living a life of sin in a mining camp. And thus also among the boys. One had been sold as a slave twice before he was brought to the school. Another had been shot as a slave and a bullet sent crushing through his shoulder. Another had been tied up as a witch and kept four days without food, when he was rescued. Another when born was about to be killed })y his parents to save the trouble of taking care of him. A neighboring woman took pity on the babe and removed him to her own house. When the school commenced he was placed in it. Many others had come under the protection of the school through trials and dangers. They were making good progress in books and industrial pursuits, and advancing in the ways of civilization. The older ones were looking forward to the erection of American homes for themselves, Avhen the break came and the work was greatly set back. Thus an institution, established at great expense, supported in part by an annual appropriation of Congress and equipped to do a good work, is criiipled, and the pur- pose of the Government to civilize the natives is hindered by the opposition of the officers previously named. For seven years earnest men and women, exiled from friends and society in this far-off laud, amid many hardships and privations, have toiled to overcome the preju- EDUCATION IN ALASKA. 89 dices of the natives and secure their children, that by means of an industrial educa- tion they may be lifted out of the degradation of their fathers into respectable citi- zenshiii. And now to see it possible for Uuited States officials and others in one month to take forty-seven children out of an industrial school strougly emphasizes the need of such legislation by Congress that schools supported iu whole or in part by the Government shall be protected from the malice of evil-disposed white men on the one hand, and the whims of degraded ignorant parents on the other. There is a great and growing work to be done by this institution, but in order to secure the best results it is necessary to have some law by which the children can be legally held for a sufficient number of years to form civilized habits of thought, work, and life. Trusting that your office will prepare and present to Congress the needed legisla- tion, I remain, with great respect, yours truly, SHELDON JACKSON, United Slates General Agent of Education in Alaska. The CoMMissioxER OF Indian Affairs. Sketch Map of SOUTH EAST ALASKA I Futjnislied "by the U. S. Coast and Geodetic Survey SEx,8t^ 49 1 INDEX. Page. Abaknakik 58 Afognak 14 Akiagauiute 64 Alaska Comiuercial Coinpauy's stations 55 Alexander, Fort 57 Alexander Archipelago 6 Aleuts, character of 14 Aleutian district 9 Apokachamute 61 Area of Alaska 5 Attu 5, 15 Auke tribe... 17 Aurora borealis 7 Aziavigamute 72 Belkoffski 16 Bethel 29 Borka 16 Bristol Bay, population in 13 Bureau of Education, in charge of Alaska schools 42 Burial customs of Eskimo 60,69 Canoes, birch-bark 64 Cape Constantine 57 Cape Neweuham 59 Cape Pierce 59 Cape Prince of Wales 12 Children removed from school by writ of habeas corpus 87 Chilkat tribe 17 Chlugachmute 68 Climate 8 Davis, Prof. A. J., sworn statement of, concerning official Interference witk the schools 80 Diomede Islands 12 Dogs, Eskimo 58, 66 Education, general agent 43 Education, establishment of public schools 22 Education fund, how secured 38 Education by Russians 14, 15, 19, 20 Education by Presbyterians 17, 18, 21, 81 Education by Alaska Commercial Company 45 Education by others 20,75 Eskimo, or Innuit 11 Eskimo beliefs 60 Eskimo burials 60,69 Eskimo diet 61,68 Eskimo fishing 62 Eskimo marriage 61, 63 Fort Alexander 57 Fort Reliance 54 Fort Wrangell 18,26,30,81 Fort Yukon 53 General agent of Education in Alaska 23, 43 General agent, indorsement by National Educational Society of 44 General agent, transportation of 32 Geueral agent, imprisonment of 24 Gilchgik 73 Glaciers 7 91 92 INDEX. Page. Good News Bay 58 Government for Alaska 39 Greek Chnrfh services 59 Habeas corpus, writ of, for removal of children from school 87 Hagemeister Island 59 Haines mission school 17 Haines public school 26, 36 Hanegah tribe 19 Hartmann, Rev. J. A., explorations of 29,55 Hoochinoo tribe 18 Hoonah tril)e 17 Hoonah schools 17, 26, 37 Hydah 18 Igagik 59 Ikaliulkhagamute 73 Intoxication on the Kuskokwim unknown 69, 73 Ingerachtshuk 73 Inghakfuk 73 lookhlagamnte 64 Islands 6 lulukiak 64 Jackson mission school 18 Jackson public school 27, 36 Juneau public school 25, 35 Katliak Island 6 Kadia k population 13 Kadiak school 14, 27 Kake tribe 18 Kalkhagamute 64 Kamleika, or rain coat 67 Karluk 14 Katmai 14 Kikchtachpit 74 Kikkhlagauiute 64 Killisnoo school 27 King's Island 13 Kisianmnte 72 Kivigalogamute 64 Kolmakovsky 61,65,66 Kotzebtie Sound 12 Kulluk Bay 74 Kuskokwagamute 61 Kuskokwim River 58,59,61 Kiiskokwim River population 13 Kuskokwim River school (Bethel) 29 Lomavigamute 68 Makalkah 71 Mosquitoes 54, 61, 62, 66, 76, 71 Mountains 6 Mumtriichagamute 70 Mumtrekhlagaraute 62 Naghaikhlavigamute 68 Napahaiagamute 62, 68 Napaimute 66 Napaskiachamute 68 Napaskiagamnte 62 National aid in Alaska 34 National Educational Association, resolution of 44 Nazan 15 Nikolski 15 Nuklukahyet 55 Nunaliiguk 73 Nuuivak 57 Nunivriak 73 Nushagak .57, 58 Nushagak River 57 Nushagak, contract for school at 29 Official interference with schools 24,79,85 Ogavigamute 64 INDEX. 93 Page. Old Harbor 14 Ookhogamute t>5 Orlova 14 Point Barrow 12 Popnlat iou 10 Xatiouality of, not Indian 10 On Arctic region 11 On Bristol Bay 13 On Cape Prince of Wales 12 Ou Kotzebue Sonnd 12 On Kuskokwim River 13,61 On Norton Sonnd 13 On Nusliagak River 58 On Yukon River 13 Porcnpiue River 53, 55 Portland f'O Port Simpson Bl Pribilotf Islands 30 Quincliacbamute 69 Ramparts of the Yukon 55 Reliance, Fort 54 Religious bodies, co-operation with 34 Rivers 7 Saint Elias Mountain 7 Saint George Island 15, 45 Saint Lawrence Island 13 Saint Michael 13 Saint Michael school 29 Saint Paul Island 15,45 Salmon 57, 58, 62 Schools : Appointment of general agent 23, 43 At ^nke " 17 At Taku 17 Attendance, summary of 37 BuUdiugs 32 Bureau of Education in charge of r - 42 Early American, at Sitka 20,75 Establ ishment of public 22 Fund for, how secured 38 Industrial training 30 Moral training 31 Obligatory attendance 31 Official interference with 24,79,85 Public, at Bethel 29,37 Public, at Fort Wraugell 26, 36 Public, at Haines 26, 36 Public, at Hoonah 26,37 Public, at Jackson 27, 36 Public, at Juneau 25,35 Public, at Killisnoo 27 Pnblic, at Nnshagak River 29 Public, at Saint Michael 29 Public, at Sitka 25,36 Public, at Unalashka ■- 28, 37 Russian, at Kadiak 14 Russian, at Sitka 19 Russian, at Spruce Island 14 Russian, at Unalashka 15 Seal Islands 45 Sitka trainiug, annual report 81 Swineford, extract from Governor's report 44 Seal Islands 15, 45 Shipwreck of teacher 27 Shishaldin Volcauo 6 Shuiuagiu Islands 6 Sims, Rev. V. E., exploration of, ou Upper Yukon 53 Sitka citizens' school 20, 75 Sitka mission school 21, 30 94 INDEX. Sitka ))ublic schools 25, 36,37 Sitka Kussiau schools 20 Sitka tribe 19 Sprinjjs 7 Spruce Island 14 Stikiiie tribe 18 Sunset o8,60 Supplies for a canoe trip 68 Taku school 17 Taku tribe 17 Tauana River 55 Tattoo marks 59, 61 Teachers, character of 33 Teachers' institute 33 Temperature 8 Thlin3 Yukon River 7,28,53 ILLUSTRATIONS. Paga Typical Eskimo man 11 King's Island cave dwellings 13 Saint Paul Village 15 Hydah house and totem pole 18 An Alaskan cailon 18 Sitka 22 School-house at Haines 25 School-house at Sitka 25 Unalashka 28 Saint Michael 29 Group of Eskimo boys and girls, uncivilized 34 Eev. J. A. Hartmann 55 Eskimo family, uncivilized 62 Eskimo family, civilized 62 Eskimo burial monuments 64 Drying fish 64 Traveling with bidarka 68 Eskimo village 68 Sitka Bay 76 Sitka training-school 82 Map of Alaska 89 Map of Southeastern Alaska 89 95 o