Gaines Asks Aid From The Governor
After the council, General Gaines at once sent by special messenger the
following letter to Governor Reynolds:
" Headquarters, Rock Island, June 5, 1831. "John Reynolds, Governor of
Illinois.
"Sir: I do myself the honor to report to Your Excellency the result of my
conference with the chiefs and braves of the band of Sac Indians settled
within the limits of your state near this place.
"I called their attention to the facts re-ported to me of their disorderly
conduct towards the white inhabitants near them. They disavow any
intention of hostility but at the same time adhere with stubborn
pertinacity to their purpose of remaining on the Rock River land in
question.
"I notified them of my determination to move them, peaceably if possible,
but at all events to move them to their own side of the Mississippi River,
pointing out to them the apparent impossibility of their living on lands
purchased by the whites without constant disturbance. They contended that
this part of their country had never been sold by them. I explained to
them the different treaties of 1804, '16 and '25, and concluded with a
positive assurance that they must move off, and that I must as soon as
they are ready assist them with boats.
"I have this morning learned that they have invited the Prophet's band of
Winnebagoes on Rock River, with some Pottawatomies and Kickapoos, to join
them. If I find this to be true, I shall gladly avail my-self of my
present visit to see them well punished; and, therefore, I deem it to be
the only safe measure now to be taken to request of Your Excellency the
battalion of mounted men which you did me the honor to say would
co-operate with me. They will find at this post a supply of rations for
the men, with some corn for their horses, together with a supply of powder
and lead.
"I have deemed it expedient under all the circumstances of the case to
invite the frontier inhabitants to bring their families to this post until
the difference is over.
"I have the honor to be, with great respect,
"Your obedient servant,
''EDWARD P. GAINES.
"Major-General by Brevet, Commanding.
"P. S. Since writing the foregoing remarks, I have learned that the
Winnebagoes and Pottawatomie Indians have actually been invited by the
Sacs to join them. But the former evince no disposition to comply: and it
is supposed by Colonel Gratiot, the agent, that none will join the Sacs,
except, perhaps, some few of the Kickapoos. E. P. G."
Early Settlements of Rock County
Source: Historic Rock Island County, pub. Kramer & Company, Rock Island, Illinois, 1908