Three Rivers
Hudson~Mohawk~Schoharie
History From America's Most Famous Valleys
The
Life and Times of
Sir William Johnson, Bart.,
by William L. Stone
Vol. I
Albany: J. Munsell, 78 State Street, 1865.
Thanks
to James F. Morrison for loaning his book for the purpose of putting it on
the internet.
Contents
CHAPTER I.
1534-1741.
Plan of the present work, 9-Success of the French in winning the confidence of the Indians; one exception to this success, 10-Inconsiderable attention paid to the Five Nations by the first three English governors, 11-Enterprise of the Jesuit missionaries during the peace of 1667, 12- Efforts of Governor Dongan to thwart the influence of the French, 14- Convention of the Five Nations at Albany in 1684, 15-Success of Dongan's efforts, 16-Neglect of Indian affairs in the colony of New York during the Leislerian administration, 17-Count Frontenac vainly attempts to detach the Confederates from the English interest, 18- Defeat of De Calliers, Governor of Montreal, by Major Peter Schuyler, 19-Colonel Fletcher succeeds Ingoldsby as governor. Ingoldsby holds a council with the Five Nations at Albany, in 1692, 20-Governor Fletcher takes Major Schuyler into his councils, 20-Count Prontenac captures two of the Mohawk castles, 21-Schuyler takes the field in pursuit. The purpose of the Oneidas to make peace with the French frustrated by Governor Fletcher, who calls a council of the Confederacy in July, 1693, 22-Count Frontenae makes another effort to subjugate the Five Nations, 28-The Earl of Bellamont succeeds Governor Fletcher, 24-Colonel Schuyler visits England in 1710 with five Iroquois chiefs, 26-Senecas prevented from turning their arms against the English by the peace of Utrecht in 1713, 27-The Confederates meditate hostilities against the Catawbas and Cherokees. Numerical strength of the Tuscaroras, 28- They are taken into the Iroquois Confederacy, which is henceforth known as the Six Nations, 29-General Hunter goes back to England, leaving Schuyler at the head of the colonial administration. The latter holds a treaty with the Six Nations, 29-Failure to expel the Jesuit emissary, Joncaire, from the Senecas, 30-William Burnet takes the reins of government in 1720. Endeavors to break up the Indian trade between Albany and Montreal, 30-Passage of an act for that purpose, 31-Trading post established at Oswego in 1722. Beneficial effects of Burnet's policy, 31 -The establishment of an English post at Oswego, a source of great displeasure to the French. Mr. Burnet meets the Confederates at Albany in 1727, 32-Mr. Montgomery succeeds Mr. Burnet in the government, 38-Revival of the trade between Albany and Montreal, 34-Death of Montgomery. Rip Van Dam succeeds him for a short period, 34-Stormy administration of Governor Cosby, 35-The Six Nations again resume hostilities against the southern Indians. The latter are defeated with the loss of twelve hundred braves, 35-George Clarke, after a brief struggle with Rip Van Dam, is commissioned lieutenant governor, 36- Recommends to the assembly various important measures, 37-The election between Adolphe Philipse and Gerrit Van Horn contested., Eloquence of Mr. Smith on the occasion, 89-Increased political excitement during the years 1738-l739. Reasons for it, 41-Demand for a permanent supply bill. Dissolution of the assembly. Temper of the new one, 43-The governor yields to the assembly, 44-Mr. Clarke complains bitterly of the continued encroachments on the crown by the people, 45- The assembly decline making an appropriation for rebuilding the chapel among the Mohawks, 47-War declared against Spain, 47-Grand council of the Confederacy held at Albany by the lieutenant governor in 1741. Satisfactory result, 51-The famous negro plot. Incidents connected with it. 52.
CHAPTER II.
1742-1744.
Prominence of
SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON in the colonial annals of the United States. His life
and character hitherto but imperfectly understood, 56- Family and descent.
His uncle Sir Peter Warren, 57-Marriage of Sir Peter Warren. Birth of Sir
William Johnson, 59-Arrival in America, 60-Takes charge of his uncle's estate
in the Mohawk valley, and keeps a country store. Means of both uncle and nephew,
at this time, small, 60-Receives advice from his uncle, 61-His style of living.
Description of his person. His success in winning the confidence and affection
of the Mohawks, 64-Proposes to erect a saw mill. His education, 66- Difficulty
in fixing the exact date of his marriage. Character of his wife, Catharine
Weisenberg, 66-the Six Nations in 1742, send a large delegation to Philadelphia.
Its object, 66-Proceedings of the council, 68- Tact of Lieutenant Governor
Thomas, 69-Interesting historical incident during the sitting of the council,
71-Complaint made by the Indians against the governor and people of Maryland.
Misunderstood on the part of Virginia, 73-A party of Indians invade the county
of Augusta, and kill several Virginians. Correspondence between lieutenant
Governor Gooch and Lieutenant Governor Clarke in relation to it, 73- Jacobus
Bleecker sent to Onondaga by the Indian commissioners, 74- Another embassy
sent to Onondaga. Result of these missions, 76- Arrival of Admiral George
Clinton as the successor of Lieutenant Governor Clarke, 77-Opening speech
of the new governor probably moulded by Chief Justice De Lancey. Tone of the
speech, 79-Sketch of Chief Justice De Lanoey, 79-De Lancey, in behalf of the
assembly, draws up an humble address, 80-The governor signs all the bills
presented to him, 81-Removal of Mr. Johnson from the south to the north side
of the Mohawk. Opens a correspondence on his own account with the opulent
house of Sir William Baker & Co., London. Grows in the public estimation,
81-Lays the foundation of his future prosperity on the basis of honorable
dealing, 82-The government of New York a.uthorized to issue letters of marque
against Spain, 82-Activity of Captain Warren at sea. Captures a privateer
and is promoted, 86-Clinton communicates to the assembly advices of the intended
invasion of England by "a Popish Pretender," 87-Holds a conference
with the Six Nations at Albany, 88. -Expresses apprehensions for the post
at Oswego, 89-Lays before his council a communication from the commandant
at Oswego, in relation to the designs of the French against that post, 90-Grand
Indian council at Lancaster in 1744. Its proceedings in detail, 91-109.
CHAPTER III.
1744-1746.
Repose of the
colonies under the administration of Sir Robert Walpole, broken by the declaration
of war against France. Attempts of the French upon Acadia and Placentia, 110-Declaration
of hostilities announced to the general assembly by Clinton. Strong measures
urged for the protection of the colony and city of New York, 111. The build
ing of a strong fort in the vicinity of Crown Point recommended, 112- Cowardly
retreat of the English traders from Oswego. The house pledge the ways and
means for putting the colony in aposture of defence, 118-Thee Caughnawagas
take up the hatchet against the English, 114-Special, allowances voted for
the defence of Albany and Schenectady, 115-The French again active in their
endeavors to win the Six Nations from the English, 116-Mr. Bleecker is despatched
into the Seneca country. Returns and reports favorably. Another report from
a French deserter, 117-Arrest and discharge of David Leisberger and Christian
Frederick Post. Governor Shirley proposes the capture of Louisburg, 118- Description
of the harbor and defences of Louisburg, 119.-Shirley communicates his plan
to the ministry, 120-Circular letters sent to the several colonial governors,
122-Lukewarm reception of the scheme by New York. its cause, 122-Conduct of
the assembly, and its dissolution by the governor, 122-128-Preparations of
Shirley for the capture of Cape Breton, 129-The command of the land forces
given to Colonel William Pepperell, 130-Circumstances which favored the undertaking,
132-Unfitness of Shirley to direct the conduct of the expedition, 133-Commodore
Warren assumes command of the naval forces, 136-Progress of the seige, 138-Success
of Warren in cruizing off the harbor, 142- Surrender of the city, 146-The
Mermaid despatched to England with. the tidings. Effect of the conquest in
Europe and America, 148-Honorable rewards to the master spirits of the expedition,
149-Unwillingness of the parent government to reimburse the colonies for their
expenses, 150-Efforts to detract from the just fame of the Provincials defeated,
151-Discussion respecting the relative merits of Pepperell and Warren, 156.
CHAPTER IV.
1746-1746.
David
Jones of Queens county, elected speaker of the new assembly, 157- Clinton
urges upon the assembly the importance of reinforcing the forces of Pepperell
and Warren. Both branches of the assembly respond cordially. Indian relations
of the colony again critical, 158-Dissatisfaction among the Six Nations. Examination
of John Henry Lydius, 159-Animosity between the Mohawks and the people of
Albany. - - Conrad Weiser sent on a friendly tour among the Six Nations, 160-
Reception of Weiser. Accusations against the Albanians by the Confederates,
161-The commissioners of Indian affairs announce the approach of scalping
parties of Canadian Indians. Barbarities of these Indians on the frontier
of New Hampshire, 162-Attention of the assembly called to these outrages.
A general council with the Indians recommended, 163-Proceedings of the council.
Speech of Hendrik, 164- Suspicions of the Massachusetts commissioners, 170-Clinton
communicates the result of the council to the assembly in a special message,
172-Burning by the French and Indians of the settlement at Saratoga, 178-Destruction
of the village of Hoosick, 174-Governor Clinton reproves the assembly for
its indifference, 175-Communication from Colonel Philip Schuyler laid before
the privy council. Dissatisfaction at the removal of the local militia from
the city, 176-Prospect of a gloomy winter. Exciting rumors, 177-Clinton asks
for an appropriation to build a stone fort at the great carrying place between
Hudson River and Lake Champlain, 178-Doubtful position assumed by the Confederacy,
179-- The importance of an alliance with New England for mutual protection
appreciated. Commissioners appointed for that purpose, 180-The question of
parliamentary law and prerogative before the council and assembly, 181-The
assembly driven from the city by the small pox, 182-Discussion of the revenue
bill by the council and assembly, 183-The victory with the representatives
of the people, 185-Resolution adopted directing the erection of six strong
block-houses. Appropriations for other important objects, 186-Clinton again
asks for reinforcements for Pepperell and Warren, and is refused. Reluctance
of the assembly to cooperate with the New England colonies not easily explained,
186.
CHAPTER V.
1746.
Commencement of
the brilliant public career of Sir WILLIAM JOHNSON. He erects a valuable flouring
mill. Builds an elegant stone mansion, and calls it Mount Johnson. Becomes
known to Governor Clinton, probably through the influence of Chief Justice
De Lancey, 187-His commercial affairs widely extended. Is engaged in shipping
furs to London. Is commissioned a justice of the peace for Albany county.
Begins to participate largely in the political concerns of the colony, as
shown by the return of Mr. Holland to the assembly from Schenectady, 188-The
exact date of his wife's decease not known. Birth of a sou- John Johnson,
and of two daughters-Mary and Nancy. Is rapidly gaining an ascendency over
the Iroquois Confederacy. Manuscript letter from James Wilson to Johnson,
189-Comprehensive views of Shirley, 190-Communicates them to the government
of New York, 191-The duke of Newcastle's letter laid before the council, 192-Joyful
reception of these communications by the legislature and people, 193-Inaction
of the parent government, 196-Expedition against Quebec abandoned, 198-Activity
of the French, 199-Alarm of the North American seaports on the approach of
D'Anville's fleet, 200-Quarrel of Chief Justice De Lancey with Governor Clinton.
Causes which led to it, 201-Governor Clinton arrives in Albany to meet the
Six Nations. Finds very few Indians in attendance, 202-Burners of a French
expedition against Schenectady communicated to Clinton by Johnson. 204-Growing
disaffection of the Six Nations, 206-The Jesuits succeed in gaining over some
of the chiefs, 206-Mr. Clinton avails himself, in the Indian department, of
the services of Mr. Johnson. Qualifications of the latter for this branch
of the public service, 207-Mr. Johnson exerts himself successfully in winning
back the friendship of the Confederates. Prevails upon them to attend the
council, 208-Is adopted by the Mohawks, and invested with the rank of a war
chief, 209-Receives from the Mohawks an Indian name. Enters Albany at the
head of a party of Mohawks, dressed and painted as a warrior, 210-Dr. Colden
opens the council with a speech, 211-Reply of the Indians, 213-An alliance
defensive and offensive formed with the Iroquois Confederacy, 216- Astonishing
ignorance of Mr. Clinton in relation to affairs in New England, 217-Efforts
of the Canadian governor to neutralize Mr. Clinton's proceedings, 218-The
Caughnawagas, instigated by the French, vainly attempt to dissuade the Six
Nations from their recent alliance, 219- Impossibility of the Iroquois Confederacy,
from their geographical position, remaining neutral, 219.
CHAPTER VI.
1746.
The Canadian Indians
desolate the New England frontier, 221--Number Four. Upper Ashuelet and Bernardstown
attacked, 222-Command of the posts west of Hoosick mountain confided to Captain
Ephraim Williams, 224-Vaudreuil invests Fort Massachusetts, 225-Bravery of
the garrison, 226-Its capture, 227-Remarkable conduct of the Indians, 228-
Active operations against Crown Point abandoned, 229-Mr. Johnson directed
to organize war parties of Indians to harrass the French settlements, 230.-The
preparations of the French for the reconquest of Cape Breton prove abortive,
232-Disasters to D'Anville's fleet, 233-Suicide of D'Estournelle, 234-Governor
Clinton returns to New York. Dissatisfaction with the Indian commissioners.
The management of the Indian department devolves chiefly upon Mr. Johnson,
235.-Trouble between Governor Clinton and his assembly, 236-Henry Holland,
by order of Colonel Roberts, breaks open the public store houses in Albany,
238-The assembly urged to their opposition of the governor by De Lancey, 240-Holland
declared guilty of a high misdemeanor, 241 -Review of Holland's conduct, 242-The
Schuylers take offence at the growing influence of Johnson, 248-Johnson becomes
contractor for supplying the Oswego garrison. First step taken toward the
establishment of Kings, now Columbia college, 245-Mr. De Lancey makes another
demonstration against his rival, Dr. Colden, 246-Johnson pays a visit to Governor
Clinton in the autumn. Receives from the governor the rank of colonel. Is
recommended by Clinton, through the duke of Newcastle, to his majesty's favor,
247-The operations of the New Englanders in Nova Scotia end disastrously.
Inactivity of the enemy during the winter, 248.
CHAPTER VII.
1747.
Shirley
conceives the project of a descent upon Crown Point, 249-New York deems the
plan impracticable, 250-Active correspondence between Clinton and Johnson
in relation to the Indian service, 251-Exertions of Colonel Johnson, 254-Letter
from Colonel Johnson to Governor Clinton, 255-Enumeration of scalps taken
from the enemy, 257-Attack on Charlestown, N. H., 258-Raising of the seige,
260-Rebuilding of Fort Massachusetts, 261-Clinton again involved in controversies
with his legislature, 262-Letter from Clinton to Johnson regarding the disloyalty
of some Albanians, 266-Mutiny of the levies at Saratoga, 267-Report of the
committee, charged with the preparation of an address to the governor, 273-The
attention of the assembly called to the disaffection among the northern levies.
Reply of the house, 274-Movements of Sir Peter Warren. Appointed second in
command under M. Anson, 275 -Is promoted to the rank of rear admiral of the
white, 277-Meets with great success in his cruizes, and is returned to parliament,
278.
CHAPTER VIII.
1747.
Military
affairs in the north in a deplorable condition. Desertion of the troops.
Murders by the enemy, 279-Captain Chew defeated near Lake Champlain by M.
Lacose, and taken prisoner. Schuyler marches to repel the invaders, 280-The
Six Nations complain to Schuyler. Clinton concerts measures with Schuyler
for relieving Oswego. Governor Shirley meditates an attack upon Crown Point,
281-Clinton lays Shirley's plan before the assembly, 282-Is received coldly,
283-Activity of the enemy. Saratoga surrendered. Johnson writes to Clinton,
284-He demands a guard to escort the stores to Oswego, 286-The assembly refuse
to allow them, 287-Letter from Clinton to Johnson, 288-High estimation in
which Johnson was held by Clinton. Cause of Johnson's jealousy toward Lydius,
291-Johnson returns from an expedition against Crown Point. The fort at Saratoga
in danger of being evacuated through want of provisions, 292-More trouble
between Clinton and the assembly, 293-Colonel Roberts directed to send three
companies to Saratoga, 294-Colonel Johnson visits New York to consult with
the governor respecting tho condition of the colony. His advice, 295-Clinton
and Shirley still cling to the expedition against Crown Point. The former
again appeals to his legislature and dwells upon the views of Johnson, 296-The
assembly respond coldly, 299-The assembly in secret sitting attack Colonel
Johnson. Reasons for this attack, 301-Clinton charges the house with falsehood,
and adverts to the services of Johnson in terms of high praise, 305-The hopes
of the colonies fall to the ground. The duke of Newcastle orders Clinton and
Shirley to desist from the intended expedition, 310-Trouble with James Parker,
printer to the assembly, 311-Clinton proposes to detail large bodies of the
militia for the defence of the frontiers, 312-The assembly charge the governor
with inconsistency, 314-Clinton again involved in controversies with the assembly
on the question of prerogative, 316-He dissolves the assembly much to its
surprise, 318-Review of the controversy, 320- Difficulty between Commodore
Knowles and the citizens of Boston on the subject of press gangs. Shirley's
house mobbed, 322-Order restored, 325-Governor Clinton presses the command
of the northern frontier upon Colonel Johnson. The latter is entrusted with
the duty of effecting a complete reorganization of the militia. All confidence
reposed in him, 326.
CHAPTER IX.
1748.
Prominence of
Johnson in the affairs of the colony-Accepts the command of the troops for
the defence of the frontiers. Devotes himself to the management of the Indian
department. Becomes favorably known to the colonial and British government.
Employs as his housekeeper, Molly Brant, 327.-Beneficial effects of this Indian
alliance, 328.-New assembly chosen. The governor's opening speech conciliatory.
Arent Stevens succeeds Mr. Bleeker, deceased, as government interpreter to
the Indians, 329.-The dissolution of the old assembly produces a better state
of feeling in the new one. The answer of the council to the governor's speech
moved by De Lancey, 330-Resolutions passed for repairing the fortifications
along the frontiers. Robert Charles appointed agent for the colony, to reside
in London with a salary of 200 pounds per annum, 331-The action of the assembly
attributed to a desire to supplant Clinton in the gubernatorial chair by Sir
Peter Warren. Warren not a party to this intrigue, 332-Discontent of the Six
Nations. Alarming intelligence from Colonel Johnson and Lieutenant Lindesay
of Oswego, 332-Colonel Johnson directed by Clinton to make a tour in the Indian
country, 333-Objects to be attained by this tour, 334-Johnson summons a council
of the Confederacy at Onondaga. Arrives at the Onondaga castle, and meets
with a flattering reception, 335-Proceedings of Johnson at the council, 336-Communicates
to the Indians, the intention of Clinton to meet them at Albany, 339-He recommends
to the governor strong legislative enactments to prevent the sale of rum to
the Indians, 341-A grand council of the Six Nations at Albany, long in contemplation
by Clinton and Shirley, 341-Clinton's efforts to second Shirley's plan for
an expedition against Crown Point fruitless, 342-Complains to the lords of
trade of the continued encroachments of the assembly upon the crown. Lays
before the assembly Colonel Johnson's report of the council at Onondaga, 343-Urges
an immediate exchange of prisoners. The assembly recommends the sending of
a flag of truce to Canada, 344- Colonel Beekman prefers a charge against the
governor, 344-Important tidings received from Europe, 345-Letter from Clinton
to Johnson, announcing that preliminaries of peace had been signed at Aix
la Chapelle, 346-Clinton, accompanied by Dr. Golden, arrives in Albany to
attend the grand council. Unprecedented number of Indians present, 348-Proceedings
of the council not important, 349-Massacre at Schenectady. No accurate account
of it in existence, 350-General result of the council satisfactory, 363-Heart
rending tragedy in the town of Hoosick, 354-The borders of Massachusetts and
New Hampshire again suffer from the enemy, 361-Narrow escape of Captain Melvin
and his party, 362-The enemy generally successful in these border skirmishes,
363-Captain Eph. Williams narrowly escapes capture, 364-Serious trouble among
the troops stationed at Albany and along the frontiers. The commissioners
refuse to execute the orders of the governor, 365.-Complains of this in a
letter to Colonel Johnson, determines to reassert the prerogative in the strongest
terms, by bringing the supply-bill to a direct issue, 366-The assembly refuse
to grant it, 368-Various successes of the English fleet in the West Indies,
369-Definite treaty of peace signed at Aix la Chapelle. End of the old French
war, 370-The Confederates demand the release of their braves in Canada. Negotiations
between Clinton and La Galissoniere in relation to the exchange, 371- Embassy
of M. Francis Marie. Suspicions of Johnson, 372-Mutual dissatisfaction of
all parties, 373.
CHAPTER X.
1749-1760.
Johnson is entrusted
with the transfer of the prisoners. Success of his negotiations, 374-Apprehensions
of the Mohawks artfully increased by La Galissoniere. Johnson writes Clinton
upon the subject. Reply of the governor, 375-Johnson summons both of the Mohawk
castles to a conference. Happy results, 376-Trouble between the Indians and
a few Albany traders. Proclamation of the governor in regard to it, 377 -
General exchange of prisoners effected, 877-Remarkable energy of Colonel Johnson,
378-He thwarts all the plans of Galissoniere and is priests, 379-Encroachments
of the French in Nova Scotia, 377 - Colonel Johnson is appointed by the crown
to a seat in his majesty's council for the province of New York, 380-This
appointment, though unsought, by no means a surprise, 381-Wranglings between
the governor and his assembly continue. The post at Oswego in danger of being
given up. The assembly dissolved and writs issued for a new one, 382-The assembly
allow Colonel Johnson part of the debt due him for provisioning the Oswego
garrison, 383-Contemptible conduct of the assembly toward Johnson. Falsely
charges him with peculation, 384--Resignation of Johnson as superintendent
of Indian affairs. The step not entirely unexpected by Clinton, 385.
CHAPTER
XI.
1750-1751.
The peace of Aix la Chapelle received by the colonies with strong feelings
of dissatisfaction, 386-Proves to be a peace only in name. Boundaries between
the English and French possessions left undetermined, 387-The French occupy
the valley of the Ohio. La Presentation founded by Rev. Abbe Piquet, 388-Sagacity
of Picquet. La Presentation destroyed by Gage in 1757, 389-Jean Coeur, a French
emissary, stirs up the Six Nations against the Catawbas. Johnson advises Clinton
of the fact 390- Clinton acting upon the suggestions of Johnson, summons the
Confederacy to meet the Catawbas in Albany. Determines to have the ends of
the council take a wider scope, and asks the different colonial governors
to send delegates, 391-Johnson informs the Mohawks of the governor's intentions.
The invitation of Thomas Lee of Virginia declined by the Six Nations, 392-Commissioners
present at the council, 393- The Six Nations are grieved at the resignation
of Colonel Johnson. They despatch a fleet runner for him, 394-Johnson arrives
in Albany to attend the council. Is requested by Clinton to continue in the
charge of the Indian department, but peremptorialy declines, 395-Is willing
to render every assistance in an individual capacity, 396-Johnson takes the
oaths of office as a councillor. Clinton opens the council, 396- Reply of
the Confederates. Address of Mr. Bull, commissioner from South Carolinia,
397-Speech of the Catawba king to the Six Nations, 398-Treaty between the
Six Nations and the Catawbas concluded, 400--Clinton lays before his council
letters from Colonel Johnson and Captain Stoddard of a startling nature. Designs
of the French upon Oswego, 402-Col Johnson sent down to the house by the council
to demand certain vouchers. They are refused, 403-Churlish treatment of the
governor by the house, 404-Master stroke of policy on the part of Mr. Clinton,
405-The French plan farther encroachments upon the territory of New York.
Meditate the establishment of a missionary and military post at Oswego. The
design frustrated by Johnson. The council grant him Onondaga lake with the
land around it for two miles in width. Otherwise than this his debt from the
colony never paid, 406.
CHAPTER XII.
1752-1768.
Dawning of a new era in American literature, 407-Johnson indulges in literary pursuits, and sends to London for books, 408-Takes special Interest in the intellectual culture of the Mohawk children. Becomes a prominent patron of the mission school at Stockbridge, 409-Places Joseph Brant under the charge of Dr. Eleazer Wheelock at Lebanon Ct., 410-Closing years of Sir Peter Warren. His death announced to Johnson in a letter from his brother Warren Johnson, 411-William Smith appointed to the seat at the council board, left vacant by Sir Peter Warran's decease, 412-Principal features of the new assembly, 413-Clinton consults Colonel Johnson in the appointment of a new board of Indian commissioners, 414-Fees of Chief Justice De Lancey, 415-He ceases his opposition to the governor, 416-Difficulty in collecting the Oswego duties John De Peyster and Peter Schuyler Jr. charged with speculation. Johnson requested to sift the matter, 416-Makes his report, 417-Hostile Indians still hover along the northern frontier, A party of St. Francis Indians surprise and capture John Stark, afterward the hero of Bennington, 418-Clinton's opening message to the assembly, 418-French again active, 419-Johnson apprised of the movements of the enemy. Alarm of the Six Nations, 420-Indian affairs sadly neglected since the resignation of Johnson. King Hendrik visits Clinton in New York. Complains bitterly of the frauds to which the Indians were subjected in the sale of their lands, 421-Reply of the governor. Disgust of Hendrik, 422-The general assembly request Clinton to send Johnson to Onondaga to pacify the Six Nations, 424- Johnson summons the Mohawks to Mount Johnson, 425-Sets out on his mission, 426-Conference at Onondaga attended with happy results, 427- Arrival of Sir Danvers Osborne as the successor of Governor Clinton, 428-Strange conduct of the new governor. He commits suicide. Suspicions of foul play clearly without foundation, 429-Mr. De Lancey takes the reins of government, 430-His opening message to the assembly, 481-Change in the administration productive of one good result, 438.-Death of Governor Clinton. His character, 434.
1753-1754.
Period reached when the active public life of Colonel Johnson begins, 436-Claims of England and France to the Ohio valley, 486-Formation of the Ohio company, 487-Christopher Gist sent to explore the country. Commissioners treat at Logstown with the Mingoes and Shawanese, 438- The French call to their aid the spiritual arm, 439-La Jonquere seizes the English traders. George Washington sent by Governor Dinwiddie to remonstrate with the French commander, 440-His reception by St. Pierre, 441-Mr. De Lancey informs the assembly of the encroachments of the French, 441-Niggardly spirit of the assembly, 442-The lieutenant governor answers the quibbles of the assembly and prorogues that body, 444-Virginia raises a regiment of six hundred men, 445-Washington with his troops reaches Will's creek, 446-The fort at the Monongahela captured by Contrecoeur, who names it Du Quesne, 447-Washington is put on his guard by the half king, 447-Defeats De Jummville. Builds a fort at the Great Meadows which he called Fort Necessity, 448- Surrendered Fort Necessity to De Villiers. The French left in undisputed possession of the basin of the Ohio, 449.
CHAPTER XIV.
1754.
Congress of commissioners
assemble at Albany. Its object, 450-Colonies represented. Backwardness of
the Six Nations in arriving. Jealousy of the Indian commissioners toward Johnson,
451-True cause of the reluctance of the Indians to attend the council. Lieutenant
Governor De Lancey called to the chair, 452-Opening speech of De Lancey to
the Indians, 453-King Hendrik replies, 454-The venerable Mohawk brave utters
a scathing phillipic, 456-Speech of his brother Abraham. Desires that Colonel
Johnson may be reinstated. Biting irony of the speech, 456-Johnson prepares
an answer, which is delivered by the lieutenant governor, 457-Johnson, at
the request of the commissioner submits a paper on the management of the Six
Nations, 458-Measures urged by him, 459-Origin of the Wyoming lands, 460-The
Connecticut delegates purchase the lands of the Six Nations. Extent of the
land thus purchased, 464-Plan of a general federal union taken into consideration,
465-Plan not adopted. Why it was not, 466-Savage hordes let loose upon the
whole frontier. The storm bursts with all its fury, 467-Dutch Hoosic burned
by Schaghticoke Indians. Vigorous measures of Shirley, 468-Captain Ephraim
Williams given a command with the rank of major. De Lancey vies with Shirley
in efficient preparations for defence, 469-The French meditate a descent upon
the lower settlements. Johnson places the militia in a condition for efficient
service. Difficulties between the militia and regulars at Schenectady, 470-De
Lancey announces to the general assembly the defeat of Washington at the Great
Meadows, 471-Want of harmony in the assembly 472-Origin of the famous college
controversy, 472-The church party writhe under the lash of William Livingstone,
474-Charter of the college granted by Lieutenant Governor De Lancey. He and
Johnson become warm friends, 475-Rev. Mr. Barclay resigns his post among the
Mohawks for the rectorate of Trinity Church, 476-A fort on the Hudson river
above Albany ordered to be built, 477-End of the college controversy, 478.
CHAPTER XV.
1755.
Vascillating course
of the Newcastle ministry. Edward Braddock sent to America with two regiments,
479-Dieskau and Vaudreuil arrive at Quebec. Surrender of two French men-of-war.
General assembly again convened, 480-Johnson arrives in New York to take his
seat at the council board. Delivers to the lieutenant governor a letter from
the Mohawks, 481-Shirley again agitates the question of a descent on Crown
Point. Thomas Pownal sent as commissioner to New York. Meets with a cold reception,
482-Braddock calls a conference at Alexandria. Four separate expeditions against
the French planned, 483- Johnson receives the command of one of them, with
the rank of major general. Form of his commission. Receives also the appointment
of Indian affairs, 484-Summons the Confederacy to a grand council at Mount
Johnson. Informs the Indians of the arrival of General Braddock, 485-The Confederacy,
through Hendrik, express great satisfaction tion at his being "again
raised up," 486-Johnson, by a stirring speech, persuades them to take
up arms in favor of the English, 488 -Shirley hastens to Boston to prepare
for the expedition under his command 489-The assembly of New York, urged by
De Lancey, enter with alacrity into the work of raising troops for Major General
Johnson, 490-Conquest of Acadia, 491-Character of the AMdians, 492-Brutality
of General Monckton, 493-Cruel fate of the Acadians, 494-Expedition of Braddook,
494-His defeat, 496-The half king at the solicitation of Johnson, offers his
services to Braddock, and is refused, 497-The French prevail on several Indian
tribes to take up the hatchet. Susquehannas and Catawbas remain faithful,
498-Shirley's expedition against Niagara, 498-It proves abortive, 490-All
eyes turned to the expedition under Major General Johnson, 600.
CHAPTER XVI.
1755.
The forces destined
against Crown Point assemble at Albany. General Lyman is sent forward with
the greater part of the troops. Johnson delayed by the leaky condition of
the bateaux, 501-Difficulty between himself and Shirley. Shirley's conduct,
502-He is piqued at the seeming neglect shown to his position, 504-Johnson
heals the dissensions sown among the Indians by Lydius. Arrives at the great
carrying place, accompanied by Hendrik and Brant, 506-The New England troops
burn to retrieve the disgrace of Braddock's defeat. General Lyman builds Fort
Edward, 506-Johuson reaches Lake St. Sacrament, and names it Lake George.
Is joined by Lyman, 507-His dissappointment at finding so few of the Six Nations
at the lake. Hendrik attributes it to Shirley, 508-Johnson's plan of operations,
510-Movements of Dieskau. A courier sent out by Johnson killed by the enemy,
511-A council of war called. Hendrik's advice, 512-Dieskau arranges an ambuscade.
Deaths of Hendrik and Williams, 518-The French fail to take advantage of their
first success. The attack on Johnson's camp begun by the French regulars,
514-Dieskau attempts to turn Johnson's right. He fails. Desperate fighting
by the Provincials, 515-Utter route of the French. Dieskau, seriously wounded,
is taken prisoner. Last words of Gardeur St. Pierre, 516-General Johnson receives
a severe wound and is forced to retire to his tent. Captain Maginnis defeats
the remnants of the French army at Rocky Brook, 517-Losses of the English
and French. Singular historical fact, not generally known, 517-Johnson sends
circular letters to the colonial governors. His treatment of Shirley vindicated.
The Indians return home, 518-Building of Fort William Henry. Want of alacrity
shown by the New England troops, 519-Efforts of Johnson to allay all jealousy,
520-Favorable opinion of Johnson by a New England officer. Scouting parties,
under Rogers, annoy the enemy in the vicinity of Crown Point. Johnson disbands
his army and returns to Mount Johnson, 521-He is severely censured. Review
of his conduct, 521-Manuscript letters now first brought to light, afford
a complete vindication of his conduct, 528-He is created a Baronet of Great
Britain, and receives the thanks of parliament. Is greeted with an illumination
and a triumphal profession by the citizens of New York, 525- Summing up of
the results of the battle of Lake George, 526.
CHAPTER XVII.
1755-1756
Sir Charles Hardy
arrives in New York as the successor of Sir Danvers Osborne. His first message
to the assembly, 530-Good feeling between the new governor and his legislature,
531-Hardy appoints a day of thanksgiving, and sets out for Albany to hasten
the departure of the levies 532-Accomplishes little by the visit. Announces
to the assembly Johnson's victory over Dieskau. Demands the settlement of
a permanent revenue on a solid foundation. The assembly allude especially
to the advantage gained by Johnson, 533-Governor Hardy's demand for a permanent
support met with quiet indifference, 534-The St. Francis Indians resume their
incursions in the New Hampshire border, 535- Shirley, now commander-in-chief
of the forces in America, arrives in New York and summons a grand congress
of colonial governors, 536- Lays before it his plan for the next year's campaign,
which meets with the general approval of the congress, 537-The assembly of
New York look coldly upon the proposed expedition against Ticonderoga, and
Shirley, in disgust, returns to Boston, 538-Tart correspondence between Johnson
and Shirley, 538-The latter yields the point, 539-Johnson is appointed by
the crown, " SOLE SUPERINTENDENT OF THE AFFAIRS OF THE SIX NATIONS AND
OTHER NORTHERN INDIANS," 540.
APPENDIX.
I. Letter from
Colonel William L. Stone to the chiefs and warriors of the Senecas, acknowledging
his adoption as a chief of that nation, 541.
II. " A memorandum for trifles sent to London for through Captain Knox,"
by Sir William Johnson, 546.
III. Sketch of Colonel Ephraim Williams, 547.
IV. Sketch of King Hendrick, 549.
V. Sketch of Fort William Henry (engraving) 553.
VI. Manuscript letter; Sir William Baker to Sir William Johnson, 554.
Copyright © 1998, -- 2003. Berry Enterprises. All rights reserved. All items on the site are copyrighted. While we welcome you to use the information provided on this web site by copying it, or downloading it; this information is copyrighted and not to be reproduced for distribution, sale, or profit.