24: “A Proclamation” Letter to residents of the Oregon Territory: On October 11, 1855, a proclamation was made by Governor George Curry, Oregon Territory, in calling for the formation of mounted volunteers to handle the Indian problems and to remain in force until discharged. Each company was to consist of one captain, one first lieutenant, one second lieutenant, four sergeants, four corporals and sixty privates. Each volunteer, if possible, was to furnish his own horse, arms, and equipment. There was no mention of the uniform, if any, at all.

43: ‘55ER (Company F) Account: NOTE: After the war, ‘55ER gave this account about the provisions which were and were not provided by the Oregon government: “At the time we were called out, we were promised remunerative wages to go and fight the Indians in that country (the Walla Walla Valley and other parts of Eastern Washington Territory). Farm labor at that time was $2.00 per day. For the horse that I furnished and rode though, that service I was offered $225.00 in gold coin. I would not take it. He was appraised into the service at $225.00 by men appointed by the governor and sworn to do their duty. No government forage was furnished our horses. No sufficient amount of provisions was furnished us. No bedding was furnished us except what we paid for ourselves. (And more than likely, they were in their own cloths!).”

The First Regiment of the Oregon Mounted Volunteers was created on October 11, 1855. It was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel James K. Kelly. It consisted of 10 companies, all from counties in the Oregon Territory. Those counties which participated in the upcoming events were: Companies A (Multnomah County); B (Wasco County); F (Marion County); H (Linn County); I (Benton County); and K (Marion County) with Companies D (Washington County) and E (Yamhill County) coming up from Fort Henrietta on the last day of the battle, December 10, 1855, with supplies.

On October 16, 1855, Fort Walla Walla, which was located at the mouth of the Walla Walla River at the Columbia River, was abandoned by the Hudson’s Bay Company due to the Indian uprisings which were starting to occur in the valley thus leaving their entire supply of goods for the taking.

It was reported that the Indians, with Chief Peopeomoxmox leading the way, had taken possession of the fort and had burned and pillaged it thus taking and distributing all the goods left by the Hudson’s Bay Company.

This was a job for the US Army to settle the problem. However, this was not to be the case for there was a difference of opinion in regard to the control of the field operations between the US Army regulars and the volunteers. The US Army wanted to take charge of all military operations but the volunteers wanted a separate organization and independent action.

As it was, the US Army refused to muster in the volunteers into the regulars and General Wool refused to join the regulars in a winter campaign against the Indians thus withdrawing his forces, including the Washington volunteers from the field leaving the Oregon troops to meet the enemy east of the Cascades unaided by the regulars.

The following are “first hand” accounts and events by some of the Oregon Mounted Volunteers in getting to and establishing what was to be known as Fort Henrietta on the Umatilla River, south across the river from present day Echo, Oregon.

November 8, 1855 (Thursday):

23(G): Curry to Nesmith: Companies B (Wasco County) and H (Linn County) were ordered by Governor George L. Curry of the Oregon Territory, to proceed toward Fort Walla Walla.

28: Colonel Kelly to Nesmith: Major Mark Chinn was presented orders from Col. Kelly to proceed towards Fort Walla Walla with Companies B and H, First Regiment Oregon Mounted Volunteers… “I gave orders to Major Chinn to proceed with the left column of the regiment, composed of companies B and H, from this post (Fort Dalles), to Fort Walla Walla, and occupy that place.”

November 9, 1855 (Friday):

23: Curry to Nesmith: It was reported by Governor Curry to Colonel Nesmith that the Indians in the eastern part of the Territory had gone to war and that the Indian agency on the Umatilla River had been burned. This was a “frame structure about eighteen or twenty feet square and one story high built 1852, with a stoned-up well.”

November 11, 1855 (Sunday):

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: Company H (Linn County) departed The Dalles for the Walla Walla Valley (ahead of Major Chinn and Company B): “We were detained there (Fort Dalles) until the 11th of November at which time the Linn Company started on march.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “The evening of the 11th, after we left The Dalles, it rained and snowed considerable, and about 8 o’clock PM, it cleared up and froze quite hard for this time of year, making it very disagreeable; making some of the boys to thinking, as a rather cool and rough introduction to war, as some of them had not an opportunity of making their tents.”

November 12, 1855 (Monday):

28: Kelly to Nesmith: “Owing to the difficulties of obtaining the means of transportation for provisions and stores, he (Major Chinn) was unable to proceed (to Fort Walla Walla) until the 12th (of November) when he took up his line of march having supplies for 60 days for the men under his command.”

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: “On Monday, the 12th, with Company B, I left The Dalles, and encamped on Ten Mile Creek.”

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account/28: Kelly to Nesmith/30: “Luke” to Dryer: After difficulties were met in obtaining the means of transportation for provisions and stores for his troops, Major Mark A. Chinn, along with Assistant Surgeon, Dr. A. E. Atkinson, left Fort Dalles with Company B (Wasco County) and proceeded towards Fort Walla Walla. The major route that they followed was the Oregon Trail route, east, towards the Umatilla River. Encamped on Ten Mile Creek. James Sinclair, who was in charge of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Walla Walla was with the command also.

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “Next (This) morning, it presented a wintery appareance, the hills were all covered with snow, the mountains white, grass scarce and frozen, and no wood insight that could be obtained, but green willows. Men were cold, wet and shivering, all must be endured.”

November 13, 1855 (Tuesday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: “Early the next morning (November 13, 1855) (we) reached the Deschutes River where the train of wagons were being ferried over with the assistance of Company B. The river was low and the channel full of large rocks, making such difficulty that it was a late hour when we reached a camping ground on the Columbia (River), three (3) miles above the Deschutes (River; West of present day Biggs Junction). Here the orders were opened and read, and upon advisement with the officers of my command, the plan of the march was determined.” Indians were seen on the surrounding hills above the troops.

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: Linn County, Company H, was camped at the mouth of Deschutes River on its west side when “we were joined by the Wasco County, (Company B).”

“We then had seven provision wagons and one ammunition wagon, besides about 25 pack animals to cross over the river and guard on the expedition. We had considerable trouble in crossing over the wagons and loads, as owing to the low state of the water we had to unload the wagons and take part at a time. We forded with our riding horses.”

November 14, 1855 (Wednesday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Major Chinn and his command left the Columbia River following the old emigrant road and made a dry camp, inland from the Columbia River, about six miles west of John Day’s River. By a “dry camp” meant that there was no stream for water purposes.

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “We left the Columbia on the 14th, and took the old emigrant road for John Day’s River, all in good spirits and glee, made a dry camp.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “We made a dry camp five miles beyond (west of) John Day’s River.”

November 15, 1855 (Thursday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Major Chinn and his command continued their march on the emigrant road, crossed the John Day River, “and at an early hour encamped on Rock Creek, about a mile above the point where the road leaves the stream.” Here “we had fine grass, an abundance of water, good wood for their fires, fresh beef and a clear day.”

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “(This) morning (we) moved on to Rock Creek, across Day’s river. This dry camp and the long drives just following, has been found to be pretty hard on Uncle Sam’s stock, and each day’s drive made them more sluggish, and as the wagons were individually loaded, there had to be additional strength applied to whip.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “On the evening of the 15th, we heard an unusual loud sound, like the firing of a cannon, but I was so distant, we were unable to tell what or where.”

November 16, 1888 (Friday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Major Chinn and his command marched over some alkaline bottoms and soon “encamped on Willow Creek, at a late hour, after experiencing much difficulty in finding water and grass.”

26: Raymond to Noble: John McBean left the Walla Walla Valley with a letter of communication to John Noble from Narcisse Raymond, Frenchtown resident.

November 17, 1855 (Saturday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Major Chinn and his command of Companies B and H, continued their march east. They soon “reached Well Springs.” Not seeing any signs of Indians made the Major uneasy. While camped at Wells Springs, (between 10 o’clock and midnight), John McBean (son of William McBean) and his team of riders, brought a letter from Narcis (Narcisse) Raymond, a Hudson’s Bay Company employee who had settled in the Walla Walla Valley and who was dispatched by the Indian agent, (Nathan Olney) in regard to the Indians in the Walla Walla Valley, told the Major of the destruction of the settler’s property and the “seizure of (Fort) Walla Walla by Peopeomoxmox.”

“I was also informed by Mr. McBean that Peu-peu-mox-mox had sent forward a body of Indians to watch our approach, and much other information as to the number and disposition of the Indians. From this information, I concluded that it was impossible for me, wit the force which I have, to reach Walla Walla, and form a junction with Colonel Nesmith; the Fort itself and the natural fastnesses being occupied by about 1000 Indians, and I determined to push on to this river and make a fortified camp, and await reinforcements or further developments with regard to the number and situation of the enemy before advancing.”

Major Chinn thus sent an express with a dispatch to The Dalles informing Col. Nesmith of the problems as was related to him by McBean.

25: Major Mark Chinn to Colonel James Kelly: “I have with all convenient speed, made my way to this point, encountering nothing in the way of hostility. The country to this point is deserted. Tonight, the messengers (John McBean) who bear these letters, arrived in camp, bringing me from N. Raymond, intelligence of the danger of the settlers, the destruction of Messers. Brook’s and Bumford’s property and of the seizure of (Fort) Walla Walla by Peopeomoxmox, and the number and the condition of my enemy.”

“Mr. Sinclair, assures me, from the information I gather from those messengers, that the position of Peopeomoxmox is inaccessible with my force. At present, the only plan which presents itself to me is that I shall proceed to the Umatilla and fortify myself until either reinforcements arrive or the right column may create a division in my favor. With 150 more men, and one or two field pieces, I might take Fort Walla Walla; with the men at my command it is impossible. The news from Raymond has been of incalculable benefit. My design had been to move direct on to Walla Walla by the river road, in which case, from the nature of the ground, the command would have been at the mercy of 1000 Indians. If Mr. Raymond is correct in his information, I shall probably reach the Umatilla tomorrow or the next day.”

26: Raymond to Noble: A letter was delivered to Major Chinn and is related here “At my (Narcisse Raymond) arrival here (Walla Walla Valley) I found a great change. Peupeumoxmox with all his men encamped near the Fort, and had pillaged and distributed the goods to other Indians so as to have them on his side. The Deschutes River Indians have joined the Umatilla Indians and are doing their utmost to raise them up. In regard to these Indians here, we can not complain yet. But the worst news I obtained on reaching my home, was to be informed that all your buildings at Wyeletpoo (Whitman’s Station, Whitman Mission) were pillaged and burned, all but a few articles which the old woman saved and your cattle pretty nearly all gone. Those who had burned the houses and pillaged them, were Frank, Talman, Peter (your man), and some other Indians from the other side. Those who took the cattle were Telquawieet’s people (say Palouse Indians). Howlishwampoo, in particular, did all he could with the rest of the chiefs here to prevent the above from taking place but in vain, and he barely escaped being killed in this affair.”

“They (Cayuses) also have had horses and cattle stolen from them, but notwithstanding these difficulties, they have remained firm, and disposed and determined not to join the unfriendly Indians. Those who are urging the Indians to hostilities are John Whitford and Talman. John Whitford, when I went down with your cattle, advised the Indians of the Umatilla to follow and shoot me because I was the man who had five of their people hung and would have them all killed. But “Five Crows” said “No, let him go, it’s to long since this took place”. We hardly expect to see of you, being surrounded by enemies, who daily threaten to kill us, and there is no way just now to get out of danger. Hence the reason why a good force should be forwarded without loss of time.”

27: Captain Thomas Cornelius (Company D) Account: He reported to his commanding officers the condition of his company while still in the Yakama Country: “In pursuance of the general order of Col. Nesmith, I have duly inspected the men and animals in Company D of the regiment, and beg to leave to repeat to you, that I find none of my men or animals in a condition to warrant them to enter upon an expedition to the Walla Walla country, and that it is necessary that my command should be supplied with fresh animals, and with blankets, shoes, and clothing, before performing further duty.” Captains A. J Hembree, Company E, and Captain Charles Bennett, Company F, also made a similar request.

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “We camped at Well Springs, all a little tired…the boys carried the sage brush for the fires and cooked their bread and beef that they felt like they needed something to strengthen the inner man.”

“About midnight an express arrived in camp in charge of McVain (McBean) and DeLoye, half breeds, by which we were informed that the Indians had about 100 men in possession of Fort Walla Walla, and that there were some 800 or 1000 Indians in the vicinity of that place and Whitman’s station, ready to receive us. Major Chinn sent by express, (the same express went on to The Dalles) to The Dalles for reinforcements.”

“From the news brought by McVain (McBean) and DeLoye, we anticipated some work to do soon, and as it was only a few miles along our road, where there was a battle in the Cayuse war (a few miles east, and to the south of the trail, of the camp at Well Springs), it was often repeated that a like scene might be re-enacted at the same spot.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “At 7 o’clock PM three men from Wasco (Company B), were sent from our encampment at Well Spring, to the Umatilla as scouts. At midnight, an express from Fort Walla Walla sent by Narcissa Raymond, a half breed and generally well known in the Willamette Valley. Raymond is said to be a brother-in-law of this old chief Peu-peu-mox-mox, and was sent from The Dalles, to see what was going on up there. He writes as follows: I arrived at the fort on Monday the 12th, and found the fort in the possession of the Indians and 100 of them stationed here, to hold the same. There are 100 Indians in Whitman’s Valley and thirty (30) men were always kept out as spies. Stock Whitley, the Deschutes chief, is some 10 o 15 miles above McKay’s claim, and altogether, they can muster 1200 warriors on the south and east of the Columbia, and they are determined to fight. (Chief) Peu-peu-mox-mox is in favor of killing everything, men women, and children, Canadian’s, Hudson’s Bay, and any body that is not a full blooded Indian. The Nez Perce Chief Joseph is doing all he can to stop the war. I( consider it very dangerous times and it was with considerable difficulty that I was enabled to get any one to venture out with the express as they will have to steal off in the night. All the French and half-breeds expect to leave tomorrow. The Nez Perce Chief Joseph sent an express for 60 men to guard them through safely. He says further that the Nez Perces are still friendly and that they intend to talk with Stock Whitley to leave their country. The Indians have burned and destroyed all the houses and property in the upper part of the country with the exception of Mr. McKay’s house and they have robbed it. He (McKay) says there is an American among the Indians who has a Cayuse woman for a wife, his name I have not heard. He is urging the Indians on, and should we get hold of him, he will fare rather poorly.” The express messengers saw fires on Butter Creek, as they came along, and supposed them to be Indians.”

“On hearing this report, Major Chinn sent a party of 5 men from Company B, to ascertain whether there were any Indians there or not, and if there were, to report as soon as possible. They passed 7 or 8 head of our beef cattle, which had escaped the guard. They reached Butter Creek about day-light (on the 18th), and they reported, saw 3 Indians…two mounted on grey horses and the other on a bay…and immediately returned, as ordered.”

“The Major, in council with the other officers, came to the conclusion, that in consideration of the intelligence received from the Fort (Walla Walla), he would send to The Dalles for reinforcements and wait on the Umatilla, until their arrival. It was considered improper to attack a thousand (1000) or more Indians with a hundred men. We have not more than that many available men, in case of an attack, having our prisoners, horses, ect., to guard.”

November 18, 1855 (Sunday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account/29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account /30: “Luke” to Dryer: Major Chinn’s command continued their march along the emigrant road passing the spot (to the south of the road) where a major battle was fought during the Cayuse War. It was thought by some that a like scene might be re-enacted at the same spot. Major Chinn and Companies B and H finally reached the agency on the Umatilla River between 8-9 PM. They found the agency in ruins.

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: “We reached the agency on the Umatilla at 9 o’clock on the night of the 18th.”

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “We marched from Well Springs to the Umatilla the 18th of November, got into camp about 8 o’clock at night.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “They (5 men from Company B) reached Butter Creek about day-light (on the 18th), and they reported, saw 3 Indians…two mounted on grey horses and the other on a bay…and immediately returned, as ordered. As they came back, they met the cattle, and attempted to drive them into camp. Upon looking behind them, they saw the 3 Indians, and raised the cry. They left the cattle and ran back to the camp just as we were ready to leave.”

“This report, with the news by the express, (last night), created considerable excitement, and an attack was expected today. We had already examined our arms, and either fired them off, or newly primed them, and received orders to carry our guns capped.”

“The Major formed the battalion and had every sixth man detailed as a horse guard, in the anticipated and expected attack. An advance guard of 20 men, were sent to look out for the enemy, and try and get our beefs. We had traveled near a mile, when we met the first three that had been sent out last night, and they reported having on chase after five Indians, but could not begin to keep up.”

“We traveled on a forced march for the Umatilla, and arrived at camp in perfect safety, at 8:00 P. M. When we got to camp, we found the advance guard there with the cattle, they having found them about 4 miles back.”

42: Private Samuel Warfield (Company H) Account: ‘We stopped at the old fort (Utilla Indian Agency which was destroyed) and built a stockade which stood on the west side of the (Umatilla) River just at the left of the road.”

FORT HENRIETTA

November 19, 1855 (Monday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: “Early in the morning our whole force”, (Major Chinn and Companies B and H), began to erect “a stockade on the site of the agency.” They had an “abundance of timber and water and tolerable grass for the stock.” By the time it was done, it was a fort of “large split timbers, 100 feet square of ground” with “two bastions (block-houses) of round logs on two of the angles, and from the rails found here, made two corrals for the horses and cattle.” Another source said it was “seven feet high”. Another source said that it was “a stockade of cottonwood timber split in long slabs and set up endwise in a trench about two feet deep, the timber reaching up about seven feet above the ground.”

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “Early the 19th, we commenced fort, (stockade), and corral for animals.”

“A small party of scouts out today saw nothing of the enemy but fresh tracks, but brought in an Indian horse.”

“At night, four scouts went up the Umatilla towards McKay’s and met a few Indians…were fired on…but they took after the Indians and ran them a short distance, when the Indians received reinforcements and returned on the boys, so they pushed into camp.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “Through the wisdom of Major Chinn, we are now detained, and are erecting a fortification at this place, (immediately on the ground where the house, known as the agency, stood, and which has actually been burnt to the ground,) dimensions as follows: Stockade, 100 feet square, two blockhouses, angling corners, 16 feet square, a horse corral, adjoining the stockade the whole width, and about 175 feet long, with a cattle corral, about half as large, adjoining the horse corral, the end of which is to be picketed, so that we can defend our stock as well as possible and not be exposed to the open fire of the enemy.”

“There is plenty of material here for our purposes, grass is not very good, but I think our stock will do very well, they look very well.”

30: “Luke” to Dryer: It was on this date that “Our little fort was christened in honor of the lady of Major Haller, (Henrietta Haller), who, when wagons for the transportation of our provisions from the Dalles to this place, could not be procured, generously came forward and proffered on for that use; an act worthy of a soldiers lady; our only regret is, that it is not a larger fort.”

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Major Chinn then sent 4 more scouts out going east along the (immigrant) road to McKay’s trading post located near where McKay Creek enters the Umatilla River. Here they “met a much superior force of Indians, and were fired upon.” The scouts took after the Indians running them a short distance when the Indians received reinforcements and took after the scouts pushing them back to the fort. “One of the scouts was thrown from his horse, losing his pistol, but all returned to camp safely. A party of men sent forward by Mr. James Sinclair, making their way to Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Colville, also returned having met the same Indians.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “There were two men from each volunteer company to go to McKay’s place to see what was going on. But before they got there, and while about 16 miles from here (Fort Henrietta), they met four (4) Indians and chased them about 300 yards when they were joined by four (4) more, and 5-6 more could be distinguished down on the flat some distance off. One of the boys who could speak their tongue hallooed to them and wanted to know if they were friends. The Indians gave them no answer, but one of them cried out to the others that they were pursued by the Americans and at the same time one of them wheeled his horse out of the road and fired two shots at the boys, both of which missed. The boys then charged on them and ran them some distance, but owing to the horses of the Indians being in a better condition than those of the boys, the charge was inefficient.”

“As the Indians greatly outnumbered the Americans, the boys thought they would run and awake camp, and while doing so, the Indians turned and took after them at the same time discharging their guns and yelling like mad-men. The boys seeing themselves pursued, turned and made another charge on the Indians which again proved fruitless and the jaded horses of the volunteers, not being able to come near the enemy.”

“The volunteers then turned for camp again, without returning the Indian’s fire, thinking that the Indians would make another charge on them, when their shots would be used to some purpose.”

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account/28: Colonel James Kelly to Nesmith: Also on the evening of the 19th at Fort Dalles, Col. Nesmith received Major Chinn’s dispatch of the 17th and Nesmith immediately ordered Captain Munson’s Company I (Benton County) forward to reinforce Major Chinn. Captain Wilson’s Company A (Multnomah County) and Captain Cornoyer’s Company K (Marion County) were also sent to reinforce Major Chinn along with Lieutenant Colonel Kelly in command.

26: Raymond to Noble: John Noble, who was in The Dalles, received the letter from Narcisse Raymond, delivered by John McBean. It was also related that “All the French families, and most of the Cayuses, went into Red Wolf’s (Nez Perces) country, under the protection of Chief Joseph.”

28: Colonel James Kelly to Nesmith: After receiving Major Chinn’s dispatch to Colonel Kelly, who (Kelly) was still at The Dalles, Colonel Kelly wrote the following to Colonel Nesmith: “In pursuance of directions to me from his Excellency the Governor of Oregon on the 8th inst, I gave orders to Major Chinn to proceed with the left column of the regiment, composed of Companies B and H, from this post (Fort Dalles) to Fort Walla Walla, and occupy that place.”

“Owing to the difficulties of obtaining the means of transportation for provisions and stores, he was unable to proceed until the 12th inst., when he took up his line of march having supplies for 60 days for the men under his command.”

“This day I received from him a dispatch dated Well Springs, November 17, 1855, stating that Fort Walla Walla, as he had been informed, was already in the possession of Peu-peu-mox-mox, chief of the Walla Walla tribe of Indians, and that this chief had taken a position which was inaccessible to the forces under his command. Major Chinn states that he has been informed that the number of the enemy is about one thousand. I herewith enclose a copy of his communication to me.”

23 (D): A Volunteer Account: “On the evening of the 19th, an express reached here (Fort Dalles) from Major Chinn, in command of the left column, informing us that Peu-peu-mox-mox with his warriors had crossed over and taken possession of Fort Walla Walla, and the property of Brooks, Noble and Bumford had been destroyed by fire and their stock driven off. Colonel Nesmith immediately ordered Captain Munson with his company forward to reinforce him.”

November 20, 1855 (Tuesday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: “A detachment under command of Lieutenant Burrows advanced towards Fort Walla Walla, and meeting a small body of Indians, pursued them to within 8 miles of the Fort, finding all attempts to overtake them, or to bring on a conflict, futile, he deemed it advisable from the hour to return.”

About 8:00 PM another scout, including Lieutenant Jeffreys and 15-18 men of Company B, “went up the Umatilla River where the trail intersected the river between the Cayuse country and the Walla Walla, and waited in ambush for any passing Indians. Finding all quiet at 10 o’clock PM, he went on to McKay’s.”

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “John M. Burrows, 2nd Lieut., Company H, (Linn County), with 20 men, were sent on a scout towards Walla Walla, and after traveling about two miles and a half, they saw Indians which they pursued with all haste about six miles and ascertained their number to be about 15, (could not tell as the Indians were about 500 yards off and kept galloping about)…the Indians could keep away from them, they halted in 500 yards of them and fired two guns at them, which the Indians answered by a close shot, and bantering and other Indian performances.”

“Our boys fired another shot at them and then divided out with the hope of surrounding the redskins, but with great speed they fled on their noble steeds toward Walla Walla. It being late in the evening, our men returned to camp.”

“About 8 o’clock PM Mr. Jeffries, 1st. Lieut., Wasco County, started with about 15 men up the Umatilla, intending to go to McKay’s some 16 miles distant and expected to get back before morning.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “The work on the fort is going on very well and I expect it to be finished in the count of three more days. I consider we are perfectly safe in our position here, without the fort, but the place is very good and I think a proper place for a fort as it will be a stronghold at all times and fifty men will be able to defend themselves successfully against several hundred Indians.”

“A detachment of 20 men under the command of Lieutenant Burrows, Company H, went out as scouts in this vicinity. They reported having seen 8 or 10 Indians. They fired three times, the Indians returning the compliment, but the distance was so great between the (two) parties that neither of the fires took effect. The detachment brought in a horse belonging to the Indians.”

“Lieutenant Jeffreys of Company B, went out (this evening) with 15 men, on a scout.”

November 21, 1855 (Wednesday):

23 (A, G): Major Mark Chinn’s Account: Lieutenant Jeffreys command of eighteen (18) men, “went on to McKay’s, which he reached at 2 o’clock AM. He found the house on fire, supposed to have been ignited early in the evening (of the 20th). The property was all destroyed but one wagon; in the brush an ox had been killed and burned; no Indians to be seen, but a large body had evidently been there. He then followed up the Tehoutinse (McKay Creek) some 8 miles” seeing signs of the Indians “where they had been driving large quantities of stock toward Walla Walla. He then crossed over to Birch Creek, 3 miles, and followed the stream to the mouth and rested until day.” Here “they found an ox supposed to be the property of Stock Whitley”, a chief within the Deschutes tribe. They then “crossed the river (Umatilla River) to the emigrant road, 4 miles below McKay’s” cabin site. “Fresh signs covered the hills leading to Walla Walla. They then followed the road back to this point (Fort Henrietta) and arrived in camp half past 3 today.”

Major Chinn thought it impossible with the force that he had to attempt an advance on (Fort) Walla Walla, without two more companies of troops and some field pieces as it was evident that the Indian force may have been mounting to from 1200 to 1500 warriors. He therefore sent another courier to The Dalles asking for more troops and artillery to assist him in moving upon Fort Walla Walla.

29: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: Referring to Jefferies march up the Umatilla River…“but they have not returned, and it is 3 o’clock (PM).”

“We have been expecting an attack here from the Indians, but we now suppose there is not much probability of such a thing, however, our fort is pretty much completed, besides the block-houses, and one of them is nearly done, so we will be in readiness for battle any time.”

“I suppose we will keep a standing force at this place and keep scouts in the country until we receive aid sufficient to push the war into their very midst. We have provisions enough to last this command about one month and a half. Our horses are very near as good as they were when we left the valley.”

“Lieutenant Jefferies and command have returned and report that the houses, fence, and everything at McKay’s have been burned by the Indians. Also that several cattle had been there. They saw no Indians.”

44: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “The party (of Lieutenant Jefferys, Company B, have not yet returned (now 3 o’clock, P. M.). A party of 6 men went out this afternoon to see what is detaining them.”

“Lieutenant Jefferys and party returned at half past 4 o’clock P. M. having been up as far as McKay’s place. Found his house and everything burned to the ground. They saw no Indians and found two horses and one beef, and brought them into camp.”

30: “Luke” to Dryer: “…we are now enclosed in a picket, 100 feet square, seven feet high, and have one block-house half built.”

“Luke” reflected on the march from Fort Dalles to the Umatilla… “Our march of six days from the Dalles here, was marked by no occurrences of sufficient interest to justify…we were fortunate in not losing more than two horses, and when it is remembered that we brought up eight ox and mule teams, besides many pack animals, all unprejudiced persons will acknowledge that it reflects great credit on Major Chinn and his adjutant, Dr. A. M. Atkinson.”

“Lieutenant Jeffreys has just returned from a scouting expedition to McKay’s and reports that he found it still burning at 11 o’clock AM and every appearance indicated that it had been left untouched until that morning. He and his party brought in four horses, the carcass of a large ox, still warm, and potatoes, peas, etc., which the latter, they found in caches. Everything, even the grain is destroyed. They saw no Indians, but fresh trails were everywhere visible.”

“We are anxiously awaiting the arrival of reinforcements and field pieces.”

November 22, 1855 (Thursday):

23 (C): Unknown, from Diary Account: “At 5 o’clock AM this morning, two scouts rushed into the Fort claiming that the Indians were upon us. Everyone was at his post in a moment, and in silence awaited the coming of the foe. But we waited twenty minutes in vain; the stock had been driven into corral, and every thing prepared to give them a warm reception. All remaining quiet for some time, Lieutenant Jeffries of Company B was sent out with a detachment of 25 men to scout around. In fifteen minutes on of his aids returned, reporting 200 Indians within one mile and a half of the Fort, and asking for a reinforcement of men to attack them. Whereupon 50 men volunteered and were sent out under Captain Layton.”

“Though they scouted the country around until night, the enemy still retreated and finally disappeared. This is a clear condition of the speed of the Indians’ horses telling well on their escape.”

It was found that “The Indians had left in one place, a large circle marked in the sand, and five smaller circles within it with a heart drawn. In two of the circles were sticking 4 little twigs each; in one, three; in one, two; and in the heart, one. This was understood by the old mountaineers to be a communication to Peu-Peu-Mox-Mox, announcing that the Cayuses, numbering 400, the Yakamas 400, and the Klickitats 300, the Deschutes 200, and the Palouse’s 200 warriors, were all one hostile tum-tum, and allies of His Bird Majasty. This would make their forces number 1500 warriors…a very probable interpretation.”

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “A clear frosty morning getting ready to start for the Walla Walla Country. It seems that nothing can be done in a hurry when we are at The Dalles by Company A for between liquor and grumbling we have had a hard time of it at this place. Pack animals are the poorest means of conveying freight that man ever thought of. Traveled 5 miles and camped on a little creek (following the Oregon Trail). This has been a beautiful day for November as it has not been warm enough to thaw in the shade. Wood is scarce and grass is plenty such as it is.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “About 12 o’clock there was considerable excitement here. Two of our spies reported that there was a party of three or four hundred Indians were coming down on the fort, and that we would have a bloody fight. Horses were brought in, men stationed at their respective places, and many Indians came into sight. Major Chinn displayed courage and bravery by elevating himself upon one of the block houses and giving commands. But I think the major was considerably excited.”

“The officers of both companies B and H displayed coolness, courage and ability during the preparations. The boys were all right and anxious for the red faces to show themselves, and if they had done so, we would have led them a merry string, and we could have whipped ten to one. But to our sorrow, they never came nearer than two miles from the fort.”

“It was ascertained that during the evening (of November 22, 1855) that there had been some 30 or 40 Indians come on to this river two miles and a half below here, after some provisions they had cached, which has since been found and about 2000 pounds of Indian muck-muck destroyed…a few bushels of potatoes were brought into the fort.”

23 (D): A Volunteer Account: Companies A (Multnomah County) and Company K (Marion County) left Fort Dalles enroute to Fort Henrietta and the Walla Walla Valley… “the companies of Captains Wilson and Cornoyer were sent forward.”

“…another express arrived from Major Chinn, stating that his front was meanaced with from 1000 to 1500 Indians…He asks for reinforcements with artillery to route them.”

November 23, 1855 (Friday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “A clear frosty morning the wind from the East. Received information that Major Chinn is stopped at the Umatilla by the Indians and we have orders to hasten to his relief. We have got material to make tents. Traveled 5 miles and camped on the little Deschutes River (more than likely on Eight Mile Creek). Nothing for wood, grass is scarce. A pack train came up with us (and Company K). Today a disagreeably cool one.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account/23 (D): A Volunteer Account: Colonel Nesmith ordered Captain Cornelius’s Company D (Washington County), Captain Hembree’s Company E (Yamhill County), and Captain Bennett’s Company F (Marion County), to report to Fort Dalles from their camp on the Klickitat River.

23 (C): Unknown, from Diary Account: “Having finished our subterranean magazine this morning, our ammunition was duly deposited in it. Our picket guard reported signal fires on the hills; a bright volumn of flame would shoot up into the air and then disappear.” These “signal fires” may have been “signalize every move of our troops to Peu-peu-mox-mox.”

23 (D): A Volunteer Account: “Colonel Kelly, at his own urgent request, was sent in command of the latter detachment (Companies A and K). Donnell’s pack train goes up with supplies in Colonel Kelly’s command. They left here (Fort Dalles) this evening and encamped on Five Mile Creek. These reinforcements will increase the left column to about 310 men.”

“This morning Colonel Nesmith sent an order to Camp Clikitat (Klickitat) for the three companies, commanded by Captains Cornelius (Company D), Bennett (Company F) and Hembree (Company E), to come into this place (Fort Dalles) to be held in readiness to be sent to Walla Walla.”

November 24, 1855 (Saturday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “A cloudy morning…traveled 5 miles and crossed the Deschutes River at it’s junction with the Columbia River….Traveled 6 miles up the Columbia River. The grass being very scarce. We turned up a ravine, the bottom of which was very rough owing to the great number of boulders in it. Water is found in puddles and holes, occasionally was we past up the ravine we could see where small springs broke out of the mountains surrounded by green grass. By the way, the grass is very scarce from the fact that the grass has been burnt up this past season. (We) camped 2-1/2 miles up the ravine from the Columbia (with Company K). Water, wood and grass better than could have been expected owing to the forbidding appearance of the country. The day has been clear and cool.”

43: ‘55ER (Company F) Account: “After getting to The Dalles, we soon loaded our mess mules and started for Walla Walla.”

23 (C): Unknown, from Diary Account: “The scouting party sent to Butter Creek (west of Fort Henrietta) reported nothing. Indian tracks were discovered today within 100 yards of the Fort. Everything dull about camp. The boys have mock courts, meetings, and concerts.”

November 25, 1855 (Sunday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “Went up the ravine about 1 mile and came to the Immigrant Road. The rode passed through rolling prairie covered with dry bunch grass where it had not been burnt off. Traveled 21 miles and crossed the John Day River. (Went) 3 miles up Alder Creek and camped (with Company K). Grass scarce and wood and water plenty. The banks of this creek are lined with Alder. This creek has been known by the names of Rock Creek and Cedar Creek. We heard that the Indians promised to give us battle on Friday next. This day has been cloudy and cold.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: Captain Cornelius’s Company D, including brothers Privates Robert M. and William C. Painter, began their march to Fort Henrietta from The Dalles following the Oregon Trail eastward. “We crossed the Columbia River, and arrived at The Dalles. We are ordered to march to Fort Walla Walla.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “Captain Munson arrived with his company (Company I) and were received with three long, loud hearty cheers. Captain Munson carried letters from Colonel Nesmith and (Colonel) Kelly, informing us of the results of the expedition of the right column of the 1st Regiment Oregon Mounted Volunteers; and also informed us that Colonel Kelly would be up in a few days with more reinforcements to this column.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account/35: Private George Hunter (Company I) Account: “Our stock is looking very poor; grass is very scarce and poor…green nutritve tufts being like Angels’ visits…few and far between. At 1:30 o’clock PM, the advance guard of Company I (Captain Munson) arrived and at 3 o’clock PM, the command came up.” The Captain carried letters informing the command that Colonel Kelly would be up in a few days with more reinforcements for the column.

November 26, 1855 (Monday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “This morning we elected William Bailey (as) 2nd Sergeant. Colonel Kelly came with our company this morning. Traveled 3 miles up Alder (Rock) Creek and camped (with Company K). The grass is scarce along this creek. The country which we traveled is rough and barren in appearance. The soil is too sandy to produce well. This is a pleasant day.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “We remained in camp, three miles from The Dalles, on Three Mile Creek.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: There was lot’s of talk around Fort Henrietta concerning the Volunteers wanting to fight the Indians right then and now. “The officers of both companies (B and H) had made verbal requests to that effect repeatedly but Major Chinn thought differently and refused, until reinforcements that had been sent for would arrive.” However due to Major Chinn’s reluctancy to do so: “Captain Layton made out (a request) and by Lieutenant Jeffreys, presented to the Major (Chinn), the following written request: Deeming it necessary and proper at the present time that the vicinity of Fort Walla Walla be reconnoitered by our forces at this post, I would hereby ask the privilege of taking Companies B, H, and as many of Company I as it may require to form one hundred and fifty men, for the above stated purpose, to proceed on the 27th November 1855. Yours, (Captain) Davis Layton.”

“A council of war was immediately held, and a majority was in favor of the movement. But the major thinking it rash and improper, dissolved the assembly and would not grant the request, but said if nothing else would do or satisfy the men, he would take them and make a trial, but his better judgment would teach him to the contrary. It was thought that such a course would be too much like mutiny; therefore it was not adopted. I do not make the statement as a charge against the major, but merely to show that we are willing, ready and anxious to do what we can to render good service to our country in this campaign o bring the savage depredators to justice. The views of Major Chinn may perhaps be the best; but it is generally thought by his men that he exercises most too much caution in his orders. But time will prove those things.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account: “Signal fires were seen…and an Indian trail was discovered…fresh. A council of war was held and it was decided expedient to await the arrival of Company A, Captain Wilson, and Captain Connoyer’s Company before attacking Fort Walla Walla. The nights are cold; ice is 4 inches thick (on the Umatilla River).”

November 27, 1855 (Tuesday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “This has been a tolerable pleasant day. The country through which we travel today is very near barren. There is nothing to be seen but sage (brush) and scattering bunch grass and here and there a few scrub Cedars. The soil is almost entirely sand. The surface of this country would be a drifting sand if it were not for the little weeds and grass that grow on its surface. Traveled 25 miles and camped on Willow Creek (with Company K). There is more evidence here of the hard ships of the Immigration to Oregon than I ever saw before the bones of cattle, wagon irons and 16 graves. They all appear to have been made in 1852. Grass and wood plenty…water rather scarce.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Remained in camp. Several of the boys have obtained discharges, and are leaving for home.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “A party of 25 men under the command of Lieutenant Jeffreys having went out in the morning of the 27th. (That evening) “They had seen three Indian spies…the spies were taking their course towards Walla Walla. (The) men followed them, going within three miles of the fort, when they stopped, put out a guard, and held a council, when they concluded they had better return.”

“On the 27th, Captain Layton (Company H) went out with a party of 25 men, detailed with 12 others of Company H, who stole off and joined them, making 37 men. They started out at dark (6:30 PM) and when they were within 3-4 miles of Fort Walla Walla they ascertained that the Indians were awaiting an attack from us.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account: “A scouting party of 25 men under the command of Lieutenant Jeffreys, Company B (Wasco County), started for the vicinity of (Fort) Walla Walla. At 3:00 PM, no account having been received of the first party, a second party was sent out. A scout returned reporting 30 Indians between here and Jeffrey’s party, and Captain Layton, Company H (Linn County), was ordered with his command to follow at 6:30 o’clock PM. Great anxiety was felt for the safety of all. Mr. Sinclair and myself (?) were out constantly scouting around, but saw no Indian signs.”

November 28, 1855 (Wednesday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “The country for which we traveled today is about the same as yesterday so far as the soil and vegetation is concerned. The face of the country is not so broken as that of yesterday. I noticed on the left a long line of Juniper trees. Camped at the well spring. The water of this spring is slightly warm and slightly coffee colored. Traveled 10 miles (and camped with Company K west of Butter Creek). No wood here but sage and Juniper. Grass scarce. A disagreeably windy day driving dust and sand about furiously.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “We marched for Walla Walla, and encamped on Ten Mile Creek.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: Upon Lieutenant Jeffreys return from their scout on the morning of the 28th, it was learned that “they had seen three Indian spies the evening they went out (evening of the 27th), the spies were taking their horses towards Walla Walla.”

“The Major (Chinn) ventured to give Lieutenant Hannan (Company I) permission to go out to the relief of Captain Layton’s party (supposing them to be in action with the Indians) with a party of 40 men. But, to show the zeal of our men, 27 more of the boys stole off and went alone. They met Captain Layton’s party about 15 miles from here, returning. This latter party had with them 17 head of Indian horses and colts. Lieutenant Hannan’s party came back with them.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account: “At 7:30 AM Lieutenant Jeffreys party returned, having been within 3 miles of Fort Walla Walla. Reports that he saw Indians, in fortified positions on rocky points, and his party came near being surrounded by Indians. He did not meet either of the other parties. Lieutenant Archimedes Hanan, Company H (Linn County), was ordered with 25 men to follow Captain Layton and his party this morning. He started at 9:00 AM. 17 fine Indian horses were captured today. This evening scouting parties all returned to camp. Signal fires were seen this evening…supposed to be the announcement of the coming of our reinforcements.”

November 29, 1855 (Thursday):

37: Sergeant A. B. Roberts (Company A) Account: “Upon our arrival at Fort Henrietta, we found everybody anxious to push to the front, but it was decided that the move would not be made until at dusk the next evening.”

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “A cloudy day, a few drops of rain in the evening. The country about the same as yesterday. After crossing Butter Creek we noticed a smoke signal on the Umatilla below where we expected to find Major Chinn. We left the road to our right and traveled in the direction of the smoke but the prickly pears were so disagreeable to our horse’s feet as to cause us to return to the (Immigrant) Road. The smoke was past or at the same time some concluded that it had been raised by the Indians to give notice that we were coming. This is the Indian mode of informing each other of the approach of the enemy.”

“Major Chinn’s command was not aware of our coming till they saw two fires at two different places on the Mountains last night which was a sign that two Companies were coming. This signal was noticed in regard to the approach of Captain Munson’s Company I. We reached Major Chinn and encamped on the Umatilla River and found that he had built a picket fort with two bastions. It is somewhat difficult to say whether such precaution was necessary or not if reports be true or not. The simple fact is that Major Chinn is a shrewd Lawyer but no warrior. It seems that the Volunteers have committed a great blunder in electing their field Officers for every one that had an opportunity to prove himself has lacked that courage and bravery so necessary in a military commander. Wood and water abundant, grass scarce owing more to the fact that it has been eaten up than the poverty of the soil for in my opinion the soil is fertile along the bottom of this River. We (Company’s A and K) were received by the Companies at this place with all the demonstrations of joy that they were capable of. Indeed they appear to be men that would do themselves and the country an honor if they had the man to led them to the battle field.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Remained in camp, waiting for supplies.”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “Colonel Kelly, Captain Wilson (Company A) and Captain Cornoyer (Company K) with their companies, accompanied by Nathan Olney and 10 or 12 Indians from the Dalles, arrived. A grand salute was fired, and three welcome cheers were given them. We expect to leave for Walla Walla tonight.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account: “Today a column was seen moving on the road and presently Colonel Kelly and Nathan Olney rode into camp with Company A and Captain Cornnoyers Company K and a large pack train in charge of Olney’s Indians.”

“The reinforcements were most joyfully received, with one round, and cheers, by way of salute. We were delighted to see them all, as it brings us into action sooner…we are all weary of delay.”

“Captain Wilson and Lieutenant Pillow (Company A) look pretty well worn down…Tonight a council of war was held, and it was decided to go on. We move the day after tomorrow.”

Upon reaching Fort Henrietta, near present day Echo, Oregon, the Colonel learned from scouts that the Indians were in possession of Fort Walla Walla. In the 1887 book, “Reminiscences of an Old Timer” by Colonel George Hunter (Company I) (35), he and two others were part of a scout expedition for who were to go to the fort and look over the surrounding country. What they saw were some Indian camps in the area thus they rode back to Fort Henrietta to report their findings. Once learning that the Indians were in possession of the fort and that they had occupied the fort by force, the Colonel was determined to march against the Indians at once.

November 30, 1855 (Friday):

23 (E): Olney to Palmer: Nathan Olney informed his superior, Joel Palmer, that Col. Kelly had assumed command of about 300 troops at Fort Henrietta and that “He intends leaving at this place 20-25 men in charge of the baggage wagons, and some provisions that he can not take with him proceed by a night march at once to Fort Walla Walla where he expects to arrive at day light on the day following, and attack the Indians who it is supposed are encamped at or near that point in large numbers.”

“The troops have on hand about 20 days provisions and about 110 rounds of ammunition (each). Colonel Kelly is determined to push the war forward and pressing the enemy (Indians) as hard as possible while the provisions and ammunition lasts. Delay will tend to dishearten the men and weaken the authority of the officers and shorten those supplies. The blow must now be struck while the men are eager for the fight and have the means of fighting.”

“Six of the Deschutes Indians came up with me (are) to act as spies and guides. I have also Tababoo, my Interpreter, and John McBean who speaks the Walla Walla language and knows the country well, besides knowing where a great many of their caches and stock are.”

37: Sergeant A. B. Roberts (Company A) Account: “Colonel Kelly, during the day, had scouts carefully guarding the surrounding plain (so) that no spying eyes should observe our preparations.”

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “Rained last night and rained today till noon. This has been one of the windiest days I ever saw. It blowed down the tents in spite of all we could do. We had to go to the bush in the evening to cook our grub. Thomas Kelly in company with several others went down river 2-3 miles and found several Indian cashes that had been broken open by the Volunteers before one of which contained potatoes, a few of which I saw. They were fine, the other contained Camus Bread Root. It was a good substitute for bread. Thomas Kelly brought some Camus Bread Root and one cake of the Bread to camp. The volunteers have taken 17 horses and one cow of the Indians a few days ago. This fort is on the same ground that the agency buildings stood on before they were burnt by the Indians.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Marched 12 miles, and encamped after night. A very disagreeable day.”

31: Unknown to Dryer: “We (Companies A and K) arrived at this fort (Fort Henrietta) last evening (November 29, 1855). The column consists of five companies: A, B, H, I and K, making a force of about 300 effective men….I send this hastily written note by the express which leaves this evening.”

December 1, 1855 (Saturday):

5: Private Plympton Kelly (Company A) Account: “This is a pleasant day. A general inspection of arms was had today and distribution of ammunition. All the beef has been issued today that is on hand so we will have to make a drive on the Indians before we get anymore shortly. This morning an express was sent to The Dalles for more provisions.”

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Marched 35 miles, and encamped on John Day’s River. But little wood.”

23 (C): Unknown from Diary Account: “This is a clear beautiful day. Our horses took leave of us last night, and a party of scouts was sent out in pursuit of them this morning. We expect other Companies and howitzers today, and if we don’t take Fort Walla Walla, we deserve to be whipped.”

December 2, 1855 (Sunday):

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “We marched up the river 3 miles, and thence east up Rock Creek 3 miles, and encamped. Good grass and plenty of wood.”

43: ‘55ER (Company F) Account: “When we got to Fort Henrietta, on the Umatilla River, we learned that the main body of the Cayuse tribe of Indians were at Fort Walla Walla at the mouth of the Walla Walla River. We were all ordered to get our suppers over as soon as possible and make a hasty night ride (of 40 miles) to strike the Indians in their camps just at the peep of day (We had just traveled 25 miles before we struck the Umatilla River and our horses were very tired).”

32: Sergeant H. A. Hogue (Company H) Account: “We didn’t get off last night as we expected. It is snowing like the mischief this morning. There is to be 25 men from the different companies under command of Lieutenant Snord, of Company I, with the teamsters and ect., are to be left at this post. The command to move for Fort Walla Walla tonight to besiege the fort and prevent the Indians from escaping until field pieces can be had, and then storm the fort. It is thought by many that the Indians will abandon the fort, but we will know for sure in 24 hours.”

“Captain Bennett, of Marion County (Company F), has just arrived with his company of 43 men. He goes on with the command making in all some 360 men. From the best information we can get, the Indians number 1500 at Fort Walla Walla.”

TROOP MOVEMENT FROM THE DALLES TO FORT HENRIETTA

COMPANY	LEFT FORT DALLES	ARRIVE FORT HENRIETTA	DAYS TRAVEL
Company A Multnomah County	November 22, 1855	November 29, 1855	8
Company B Wasco County	November 12, 1855	November 18, 1855	7
Company D Washington County	November 29, 1855	December 5, 1855	7
Company E Yamhill County	November 29, 1855	December 5, 1855	7
Company F Marion County	November 24-25, 1855	December 2, 1855	8-9
Company H Linn County	November 12, 1855	November 18, 1855	7
Company I Benton County	November 20 (?), 1855	November 25, 1855	6?
Company K Marion Couny	November 22, 1855	November 29, 1855	8

Colonel Kelly’s command, consisting of Companies A, B, F, H, I and K, First Regiment, Oregon Mounted Volunteers, left Fort Henrietta late in the evening of December 2, 1855 enroute to the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Walla Walla which was located on the north side of the Walla Walla River near its mouth to the Columbia River. (Continue their march in Chapter 2; December 2, 1855).

December 3, 1855 (Monday):

23 (F): B. F. Dowell Account: Private William C. Andrews, Company I, in the detachment that was left at Fort Henrietta, was killed and scalped by the Indians while guarding the horses during the night. (It was reported, that his scalp was used to taunt Colonel Kelly’s troops during the Battle of Walla Walla).

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Marched 25 miles, and encamped on Willow Creek. Wood scarce, and grass short. Very bad water.”

December 4, 1855 (Tuesday):

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Marched 20 miles, and encamped at Well Spring.”

December 5, 1855 (Wednesday):

22: Private Robert and William Painter’s (Company D) Account: “Marched 25 miles and arrived at Umatilla, at Fort Henrietta.”…Captain Thomas R. Cornelius’s Company D (Washington County) and Captain A. J. Hembree’s Company E (Yamhill County), finally arrive at Fort Henrietta in order to reinforce Colonel Kelly’s command.

36: Captain A. J. Hembree (Company E) Account: “Marched 20 miles to the Agency. Snow and rain. W. Andrew buried today killed by the Indians yesterday.”

December 9, 1855 (Sunday):

36: Captain A. J. Hembree (Company E) Account: “This morning received a message from Colonel Kelly to march for him immediately at Walla Walla.”

The reinforcements at Fort Henrietta received an express from Colonel Kelly. He informed them that they had fought the Indians for two days and were still fighting; that a number had been killed on both sides. They wanted immediate assistance. The troops, Companies D and E, started for the Walla Walla Valley that evening and traveled all night and into the next day. (23) (Continue their march in Chapter 9; December 9, 1855 and Chapter 10; December 10, 1855).

DOCUMENTS USED

“We Were Not Just Summer Soldiers” a daily account (in diary form) by Plympton Kelly, Oregon Mounted Volunteers, Company A (FHA);

22. “Journals of the Indian War of 1855-1856 (The Robert and William Painter Accounts)” by Orin Oliphant, Washington Historical Quarterly, Vol. 15, No. 1. January 1927 (FHA);

“OMV’s Fort Henrietta: On Winter Duty, 1855-56” by J. W. Reese, Oregon State Historical Society (FHA):

Major Chinn’s Account: House Journal, 1855-56;

Letter of a “55’er”: The Oregonian, March 1, 1897;

Unknown, from a Diary Account a Letter from “Y” in Portland Oregon Weekly Times, December 8, 1855;

“A Volunteer Account”, Democratic Standard, December 6, 1855;

Olney to Palmer; (Oregon Superintendency of Indian Affairs (National Archives microfilm, M-2, Roll 5), Letter Books, Vol. D, 370-371);

B. F. Dowell Account, The Oregonian, December 29, 1855

Journal of the House of Representatives of the Territory of Oregon,1855-56 (Salem, 1856, appendix, 61(Referred to as the “House Journal, 1855-56”);

“A Proclamation” Letter to residents of the Oregon Territory, October 11, 1855, Unknown newspaper article, (FHA);

The Oregonian, November 24, 1855: November 17, 1855 letter from Major Mark Chinn to Colonel James Kelly (FHA);

The Oregonian, November 24, 1855: Narcisse Raymond’s letter to John Noble, (FHA);

The Oregonian, November 24, 1855: November 17, 1855 letter from Captain Thomas Cornelius to Commanding Officers, (FHA);

The Oregonian, November 24, 1855: November 19 , 1855, Col. Kelly to Nesmith, (FHA);

The Oregon Statesman, December 8, 1855: November 21, 1855 letter to The Oregon Statesman from “H” (Sergeant H. A. Hogue, Company H), (FHA);

The Oregonian, December 1, 1855: November 21, 1855 letter “Luke” to Dryer, (FHA);

The Oregonian, December 8, 1855: November 30, 1855 letter “Unknown to T. J. Dryer, (FHA);

The Oregonian, December 8, 1855: December 1, 1855 letter H. A. Hogue (2nd Sergeant, Company H) to T. J. Dryer, (FHA);

“Reminiscences of an Old Timer” by George Hunter, Company I (Benton County), First Regiment, Oregon Mounted Volunteers, 1887 (FHA);

“Yakima Indian War Diary” (of Captain A. J. Hembree, Oregon Mounted Volunteers, Company E, Yamhill County), Washington Historical Quarterly #16, (1925) (FHA) ;

“The Yakima War of 1855: The Campaign to Walla Walla: The Capture of the Most Noted War Chief of the Pacific Coast” by (Sergeant) Alvin Brown (A. B.) Roberts (Oregon Mounted Volunteers, Company A, Multnomah County), Clark County History, 1967, (FHA);

“Finding the Trail in Oregon” by Keith F. May (2000);

42. “Warfield’s Story of Peo-Peo-Mox-Mox (Private Samuel Warfield’s, Company H, Account” by Clarence Andrews, Washington Historical Quarterly, 1934, (FHA);

“The Cayuse War” by ‘55ER (Company F), The Morning Oregonian, March 1, 1897 (Also 23-B) (FHA);

The Oregon Statesman, December 1, 1855: November 20, 1855 letter to The Oregon Statesman from “H. A. Hogue” (Sergeant H. A. Hogue, Company H, Account), (FHA);