Letter from Edward Deas to George Gibson regarding about 523 emigrants, Dec. 31, 1835.

[ASP, Mil. Aff., v.6, p. 773]


Memphis, Tennessee, December 31, 1835.

General:

I have the honor to report that the emigrating party of Creek Indians arrived near this place today. I had the honor to address you from Tuscumbia, Alabama, on 21st instant, and from Paducah on the 28th instant, giving an account of our progress up to that time, and also the mode of proceeding intended to be pursued until our arrival at Fort Gibson. Nothing of particular consequence has since occurred. The boats were landed this morning on the opposite bank of the river to prevent the Indians having access to the whiskey shops of the town, and it is intended to proceed this afternoon. The party having charge of the ponies also arrived this morning, and will proceed without delay through the Mississippi swamp towards that destination. Thus far there has been but little sickness on our route, and no deaths since we left Tuscumbia. I have nothing further of interest to communicate at present.

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant,
EDW. DEAS, 2d Lieutenant and Disbursing Agent of Creek Emigration.

Gen. Geo. Gibson, Commissary General of Subsistence.