PBA Galleries

Secretary of War John C. Calhoun writes to the Indian Agent for Missouri, Benjamin O’Fallon. On Aug. 18, 1819: “In addition to the instructions which were given to you on the 8th March last, you will consult with Colonel Atkinson, as commander of the military department, on all subjects connected with your duties as Indian agent, and keep him regularly informed of all your proceedings… It is deemed necessary that there should be a prefect understanding between the Indian agent and the commander of the military department…” On July 12, 1820: “…Your conduct and proceedings for conciliating the Indians within your agency, are very satisfactory, and I confidently expect, there will be no relaxation in your firmness and vigilance, to advance the interests of the U. States…” On May 22, 1821: “…I am glad the disposition of the Indians generally within your agency continues friendly. The impression made upon them by our troops and boats is a very happy one, and I hope you will be successful in your efforts to preserve it, in case it may be necessary to withdraw a part of the troops. I approve of the objects for which you propose to send a deputation from the Indians in that quarter, to the seat of government, and the only objection to giving the permission of the government, at present, is the low state of the appropriation for the Indian Department…” On May 29, 1822: “Sir, Genl. William Clark, late Governor of Missouri Territory, has been appointed under an act of Congress passed at the late session, Superintendent of Indian Affairs at St. Louis, and, by direction of the President, his superintendency will embrace the several Indian agencies in the Mississippi and Missouri. You will, therefore, upon the receipt of this, correspond with him in relation to your duties…” Included in the lot are two "envelopes" (made from folded sheets of paper) addressed to O'Fallon, from Calhoun. Provenance: Descended in the Benjamin O’Fallon family.