The board has agreed with Samuel Kirkland to send a committee to visit him to observe the state of affairs among the Oneidas. They want Mr. Palmer to be more effective as a missionary. Miller talks about the state of the Indians and Palmer's role among them, emphasizing the need to break the communications gap between whites and Indians. The board resolved to employ Kirkland in translating certain things into the Oneida language. Upon completing this task he would receive $200.
Kirkland 22b (Articles of agreement between Kirkland and Wheelock , 1771.) At a Personal Interview of the Reverend Doctor Wheelock with the Reverend Mr. Kirkland , in order in an amicable and Christian manner to Settle Differences and Misunderstandings which have of late Subsisted to the great Dishonor of God, and wounding to the Redeemer's Cause. Hanover 30th October 1771. After Supplicating the Throne of Grace for Success in the Attempt, and a free and deliberate Reviewing and discoursing Show moreKirkland 22b (Articles of agreement between Kirkland and Wheelock , 1771.) At a Personal Interview of the Reverend Doctor Wheelock with the Reverend Mr. Kirkland , in order in an amicable and Christian manner to Settle Differences and Misunderstandings which have of late Subsisted to the great Dishonor of God, and wounding to the Redeemer's Cause. Hanover 30th October 1771. After Supplicating the Throne of Grace for Success in the Attempt, and a free and deliberate Reviewing and discoursing upon past Occurrences, it soon very evidently appeared that the great Causer of Discord and his Instruments had been very Busy, it was agreed upon to bury many things in silence which had been occasions of widening and continuing the Breech, which was the more easily agreed to as they soon found many misrepresentations made of Facts, and evil surmisings, inspired by evil Instruments, they conceded to the things following, viz. 1. that they never understood one another in many things till this meeting; and During the time of their misunderstanding instruments suitable to inspire jealousies and confirm each other in hard Thoughts and evil surmisings were not wanting, till Satan had gained his point. But they have now both conceived raised hopes that his mischief will finally fall upon his own head, and that order and unity will be the happy consequence of such jangle and confusion. 2. That Mr. Kirkland seems very sensible that his obligations to this Seminary and to the Honorable Trust in England are prior and much greater than to any other men or body of men. He also, when he put himself under the Honorable London Board in Boston, reserved, and they cheerfully granted him the liberty of performing any such agency for Dr. Wheelock , or this School, as should be consistent with the Business of his Mission, and that Honorable Board appeared well pleased with him, and are disposed to be generous toward his support. 3. That Mr. Kirkland continue his correspondence with Dr. Wheelock , and furnish him with such accounts as may be useful to promote the general design. 4. It is acknowledged upon review of past facts that Mr. Kirkland has suffered much in the Business of his Mission and his Expenses augmented for want of necessary supplies, especially in the year 1769 - which also acknowledged not to have been owing to any willful neglect of Dr. Wheelock . 5. That it is farther conceded that upon examining Accounts variety of circumstances and occurrences that Mr. Kirkland has acted with great integrity and a sincere, unfeigned Regard to the Honor and interest of Religion among the Indians in all the extraordinary charges attending his mission, particularly in the years 1769 and 1770-- Though his natural tenderness and openness of heart may have betrayed him into some charities where mature consideration would not have judged so expedient and that he may be too easily overcome by Indian importunity. Nor did the Doctor know till this day but that the whole of Mr. Kirkland's accounts and disbursments to the Indians had been reimbursed to him, for which he has paid interest for above two years. That it appears from Mr. Kirkland's accounts, that he has endeavored faithfully to improve what he has from time to time received through the hands of Dr. Wheelock with the Beneficence of Friends, for the furtherance of the Cause of God among the Indians, for his own immediate support, and in charities to the Indians, where necessity and the Honor of Religion required. that he has not laid up for himself or hired out the value of one shilling, and has nothing which he may properly call his own after seven years service, but his household furniture, horse, etc. 6. Also conceded that Mr. Kirkland has been friendly to this School since the unhappy misunderstanding took place between him and the Doctor, and ready to sacrifice his little all for Christ's Indian Cause; specified and confirmed by the following among other instances of like conduct. When the interest and credit of this School, about 2 years ago and since, were greatly exposed among the Indians, by false reports and unfriendly suggestions from evil minded Persons, of white people, Mr. Kirkland readily offered to stake his life against the sincerity of the Design, and the veracity and integrity of the Doctor and to remove the grand objection the Indians then made against embracing the Gospel, viz. "loosing their lands". - Mr. Kirkland often publicly declaring the true intent of the pious design and the founder of it, with all those he employed as Missionaries solemnly protested in the presence of nigh 200 Indians that he never would either purchase, accept of or any way own one foot of lands on the west side of Hudson's (or Albany) River, during his life which has given the Indians, in general and to some of them surprising, satisfaction and in a great measure removed that almost fatal embarrassment to propagating the Christian Faith among them. Many of the most sober and judicious have since observed to Mr. Kirkland that the Indians never would have conceived the least suspicion of his design nor of his generous and worthy employer had it not been for suggestions of that nature from the white people. And in consequence of this declaration and covenant with the Indians (which he deems sacred and holds inviolable) has refused to accept of several offers made him by gentlemen, in some late purchases of lands in that vicinity. That as the Doctor understands that representations have been made and transmitted home, as though Mr. Kirkland was extravagant in his expense among the Indians (particularly the two last years he was in the Doctor's immediate employ) if the honorable trust in England have received any such accounts the Doctor prays they may be burnt and of which desire he will give them the earliest intelligence. The Doctor never himself accused Mr. Kirkland with extravagance in his expenses, nor ever supposed he spent more than was useful and he (Mr. Kirkland ) thought to be necessary (considering the practice of the Jesuits who used to clothe the widow and fatherless and had large pensions for this same purpose) and if Mr. Kirkland had descried of the Doctor the double of what he did expend, he would have at any time been welcome to it, so long as he appeared engaged in the redeemer's cause, and that the Doctor has been always sorry Mr. Kirkland did not see cause to build a more reputable house and accept other accommodations for his comfort which the Doctor formerly desired him to lay out for. Nor does the Doctor conceive any suggestions of the nature have any justice in them, or that any judicious man will think they have, who only considers his situation, expense of transportation and the occasion he has taken to give to the poor among his people. That the reasons of Mr. Kirkland extraordinary expenses for the three years past, are, his building himself an house, procuring household furniture, moving his family and relieving the distresses of a number of his people. That Doctor Wheelock and Mr. Kirkland have agreed never to receive any reports of one another tending to discord, till they have opportunity by personal interview, or by writing to each other upon the head. If this had been done when they were so very far from suspicion of the evil that has happened, the Devil never would have had the door which he has found to disturb their Peace. That the Doctor has ever been much concerned for Mr. Kirkland's comfort and the success of his Mission, but through a multiplicity and variety of Business, with Mr. Kirkland's great distance etc. has been prevented the doing many things for Mr. Kirkland which lay much upon the Doctor's mind and which he took many endeavors for - particularly, the fixing a pension upon Mr. Kirkland , agreeable to the proposal of the Honorable Trust in England. [(On the back of the last page is the following memorandum in Kirkland's writing: That Mr. Kirkland be paid for those disbursements to the Indians, in the year 1770, viz. a pair of working cattle, plow, chain, etc. which were, in consequence of the Doctor's former advice and direction, given to the Indians in his name. Also œ27 L. M. that Mr. Kirkland have a Bill of Exchange given him on John Thomas Esquire for his arrearages N.B. Either, or neither of the above, as the Reverend Doctor pleases.) The paper is endorsed in Wheelock's hand in the margin of page 1: Articles of Agreement Between Mr. Kirkland and myself. The first sixteen and one-half lines, as far as the asterisk, are in Wheelock's writing; the rest in Kirkland's. Erasures are all as in the manuscript.] Show less
Attributes the late misunderstanding to the work of Satan. Recognizes that Samuel Kirkland's commitment to the London Board of Correspondents in Boston now more important than his other (earthly) commitments. Kirkland did suffer for supplies under Wheelock's patronage, although this was not because of willful neglect on Wheelock's part. Kirkland has not personally benefitted from any patronage, but has put it all into his mission work and the support of his family. Kirkland has also been supportive of Dartmouth. Wheelock "never himself accused Kirkland with extravagance". Wheelock and Kirkland agree not to believe reports injurious of the other until the injured party can be questioned on the issue.
Davis is in dire need of money and asks Samuel Kirkland to send some by safe hands or by Kirkland's neighbors. He hopes Kirkland will continue his Magazine subscription. He says that seven copies are forthcoming.
Sale of a seven and one-half acre tract of land located in Paris to Samuel Kirkland for twenty shillings. -- Verification of deed by James Dean, Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Oneida County, January 21, 1799.
George laments that he has not been able to visit his father and assist him in his affairs. Political and other affairs both at home and abroad have put George and other up and coming businessmen in an embarrassing and unfortunate situation. His sense of honor and concern for reputation has forced him to make many sacrifices. He bitterly explains that his "honesty has been trifled with" and his "generosity abused". He tells his father that he stands to lose 30,000 dollars unless action is taken.
Kirkland 138a Letter to Samuel Kirkland from John Sergeant S. July 9:1791 Reverend and Dear Sir Am happy to be dismissed from the Court a few days since - hope you will take all possible care of my people - Wish you to preach once at Tuscarora and that Mr. Occam might be there unnoticed believe it might do him much good - Mrs. Sergeant urges to have me tarry till after her visit - and fully determined - if I can get the money will send you 12 or 15 dollars to buy a good Cow for Jacob Gonk s wife Show moreKirkland 138a Letter to Samuel Kirkland from John Sergeant S. July 9:1791 Reverend and Dear Sir Am happy to be dismissed from the Court a few days since - hope you will take all possible care of my people - Wish you to preach once at Tuscarora and that Mr. Occam might be there unnoticed believe it might do him much good - Mrs. Sergeant urges to have me tarry till after her visit - and fully determined - if I can get the money will send you 12 or 15 dollars to buy a good Cow for Jacob Gonk s wife he is one of Captain Hendricks companions if you can help her about a Cow - wish you to do it or give her the money - she I suppose has little or nothing to eat - a very clever woman - Wish you to exhort the people to take good care of fences and fetter unruly horses - give my love to Captain John tell him to keep up good courage - we shall be along by and by all is well. Joseph wants to stay and work to get him some clothing yours most sincerely in haste J Sergeant Reverend Mr. Kirkland [addressed on other side of sheet] The Reverend Samuel Kirkland Clinton Reverend John Sergeant July 1 1791 Show less
Kirkland 57b Declaration of Neutrality, 1775 (The first declaration of neutrality issued on the American continent. This is the original document, written by an Oneida Indian, one of Samuel Kirkland's pupils, and signed by 12 sachems of the nation. It was addressed to the people of New England, and a copy of it was taken by a delegation of the Indians to Hartford, Providence, and other towns in the Eastern part of the country. Other papers in our possession show why the Oneidas were unable Show moreKirkland 57b Declaration of Neutrality, 1775 (The first declaration of neutrality issued on the American continent. This is the original document, written by an Oneida Indian, one of Samuel Kirkland's pupils, and signed by 12 sachems of the nation. It was addressed to the people of New England, and a copy of it was taken by a delegation of the Indians to Hartford, Providence, and other towns in the Eastern part of the country. Other papers in our possession show why the Oneidas were unable to carry the rest of the Six Nations with them in the matter of neutrality.) Kanonharoghare, June, 1775. These may Certify all whom it may concern. That we the Chiefs, head men, councilors warriors, and young men of the Oneida nation, this day assembled together considering of affairs of importance, we say that these may certify all whom it may concern that we are altogether for Peace, and not only we of the Oneida nation. But other nations with whom we are connected. our desire is to be neutral in these critical times--in these times of great confusion: we desire not to meddle with any disputers that are now in agitation. Let our English Brethren be assured of this truth that if we were called to assist them against any other Power that would not find us Backward in the Least. But we would Evidence to the world our regards fro the English nation by fighting for their defense as in time past although at the expense of our own lives, and Let all our New England Brethren be fully assured by these lines and the token of friendship we send with lines, that no one shall prevail with us, or persuade to take up arms against you our English Brethren. we will not give you the least disturbance-- and we will exert our utmost Endeavors to keep our Brethren the Six Nations and others further Back from disturbing you in the Present difficult times. So Let all be easy in their minds we are for Peace; ye are Brethren that are at variance and this is the reason we desire to be neutrals. we are in sincerity your very dear and true-friends Indian of the Oneida nation and we hope that peace may be restored soon between Great Britain and her Colony Wrote by Jacob Reed , an Oneida Indian, the Interpreter. (The Indian "signatures" follow, written by Reed rather illegibly. Among them are the names of Thomas, Skenandoa, and Hendrick, whom we know as particular friends of Kirkland , often mentioned in his correspondence.) Show less
Interpreted by Jacob Reed. The Oneida Nation hereby declares its neutrality, recognizing the past patronage of the English, but refuses to fight against the New Englanders.
Note
Description: (Note: This is the first official declaration of neutrality made on the North American continent) Includes a transcription.
Kirkland 243a Ralph W. Kirkland to Samuel Kirkland March 14, 1806 Honored Uncle - Yours by Mr. Bingham I have received and will attend to the contents. The reason why I have not been out before now, is because I have been obliged to pay very close attention to a sick Brother, both by day and by night. He is much better and is able to come into the Store a little, but not to do anything. I send to Aunt 2 lbs Coffee and a roll of Butter, which will be good with a little Codfish if it should be wan Show moreKirkland 243a Ralph W. Kirkland to Samuel Kirkland March 14, 1806 Honored Uncle - Yours by Mr. Bingham I have received and will attend to the contents. The reason why I have not been out before now, is because I have been obliged to pay very close attention to a sick Brother, both by day and by night. He is much better and is able to come into the Store a little, but not to do anything. I send to Aunt 2 lbs Coffee and a roll of Butter, which will be good with a little Codfish if it should be wanted etc. Also some papers from Boston. No letters. Mr. L. has had a letter from Reverend J. T. Kirkland , all well etc. I hope to be able to ride out tomorrow evening. I am Respectfully yours R. W. Kirkland . Friday 2 o'clock PM March 14, 1806 Reverend Samuel Kirkland . Reverend Samuel Kirkland Paris Mr. Bingham Family Letters 1806 and 1807 R.W. Kirklands March 14th, 1806 Show less
Ralph W. Kirkland apologizes for not getting out before now, but he has been nursing a sick brother. He sends two lbs. of coffee, a roll of butter and papers from Boston.
The committee decides that Samuel Kirkland's petition for aid will not be granted, because his initial advances to the Hamilton Oneida Academy were made without the thought of reimbursement.