Robert Parks' 1st Cherokee Regiment Day Book

Dec 1st to Dec 31st, 1862

Monday 1st
Dec

Capt
Inclosed please find our regular morning report. Co A as marked Detached Service were Col Waties escort to Maysville Col also as marked absent without leave both failed to comply with the Cols order are yet in and near Maysville. Cos C F & H as absent with leave were permitted to move their families to some place of Safety by order of Col Watie and have not yet returned Part of other companies are absent upon the ground, but all are over going their time. I have had Charlie Holt to report a list of 77 men ready for Service and are to meet and come in to Camps on next Thursday. I have enrolled them and so soon as they organize and elect their officer I shall report the same to you.
RC Parks Lt Col comdg

Genl
In consequence of disobedience and disrespect of Order and regulation I am compelled to make application to you for an appointment of a General Court Martial for the trial of Several Officers charged in this Regiment with Non Compliance and refusal to obey written instruction and positive Orders and by the earliest day possible, will be most Suitable for disposing of such cases.
Very truly Your Obt Servt
R C Parks Lt Col Comdg Che Regt
Lt Brown will detail a small detachment of Capt Foremans Co E and proceed a cross the river and Scout the country below the mouth of the Illinois River, and report to this Hd Qtrs as early after as possible.
R C Parks Lt Col Comdg
Che Regt
Issued order for _________ and organizing of company reported by Charlie Holt being _______ on Canadian and else where for the Service under the 1st Cherokee Regt.
All Officers NC & Soldiers who are absent without written permission and all Officers & Soldiers who have already over stayed the time for whitch their permission were given are forthwith to be reported to these Hd Quarters with the date of each grant of permission opposite their respective names
And every Commander of Companies now present will proceed directly to make such report upon honor and Send the same in immediately.
By Order of RC Parks
Lt Col Comdr Che Regt

Tuesday
Dec 2nd
Wm Marshall Sentenced to 4 days fatigue duty and a fine of Ten dollars are to be ________.
Special Order 10 - The Standing Committee appointed to try the right of property will proceed immediately to ascertain the rightful ownership to 2 yoke oxen and one 2 horse wagon taken by Capt Perry Brewer under Order from the house of Dick Thompson (Federal) and now claimed by Dick Thompsons wife under claim as held as separate Property The committee will report the result of this examination immediately after.
RC Parks Lt Col
Comdg Che Regt

Capt J Thompson A Q M 1 st Che Regt will cause immediately to have one 2 horse wagon and 2 yoke oxen delivered over to Mrs. Thompson having shown satisfactory proof this day of the afore said property as being her own and as such not Subject to confiscation from the desertion of Dick Thompson her husband as was supposed.
RC Parks Lt Col
Comdg Che Regt

Special Order,
All Officers and Soldiers in Confederate Service are hereby warned and prohibited the taking of the property effect and household of Mrs. E Thompson who has this day given satisfactory proof of her having and have always held her own and separate property from that of Dick Thompson her husband who has deserted the Southern Cause and joined our enemy.
By RC Parks Lt Col
Comdg Che Regt
The above Order were issued in consequence of a decision of a Court respecting the rights of property by Elizabeth Thompson, wife of Dick Thompson
by Capt M C Fry
John Kell Lt
Lut W H Mayes
Tom Anderson Clerk
Col S_____ Watie came in from _____. Capt L_____, Inspection of Salt Note & c

Capt E J Howland President of the Court called Dec 2nd at Cabbin Smith house for the trial of Sergt Moore and other - where in Sergt Moore was accused of using disrespectful language to his Superior Officer while in the discharge of his official business & c. And it became the court to find him guilty, Therefore wherein he received Sentence of being reduced to rank & 4 days fatigue duty. I have examined the proceedings of afore said Court in the aforesaid case, and beg leave to refer the case again to your [Constitution] hoping it may please the Court to so modify the above sentence as will allow the prisoner to retain his Officers and only reduce him to such punishment as will early teach him with what respect to bestow upon his Officer.
R C Parks Lt Col
Comdg Che Reg

Webbers Falls Dec 2nd

Capt E J Howland
President of Court Martial
Col Watie coming in, and having granted priviledge and ____ under the case of Sergt. More was submitted to him and was Order to be left as desided by the Court
Encampment one mile and a half above the Stores of McDaniel & Fondsworth and about 400 yards up the river from Cabin Smith house.
A large ravine or channel running down on the right of our camp and joining into the Sand bar some one hundred and fifty yards below our encampment, In going in from the west crossing the river you come upon a very high and complete wall of natural embankment running parallel with the channel and extending down to the bar on the right and Several hundred yards trip the bottom across the inner side is a fine Second bench or platform extending the full length and some 4 to 6 feet below the top of the embankment. Inside this and toward the river is our encampment Scattered promiscuous without center or regularity. The natural position of our encampment is one of the finest we have ever had from the embankment the Surface of the ground is very favorable running in parallel embankment but a few feet below the main outer embankment. Along our line of encampment next the river is another embankment much higher and parallel with the other whitch would be a work of considerable advantage should any attempt be made to attack our encampment. In Case such were attempted our full line could be drawn up in line of battle in one straight line covering the passage up the river And should it be necessary the [same] could be done covering the crossings of the channel, to the North is a vast [curve] break ending in the bend of the river some 3 miles bove where the mountains Set in down the river towards the Falls we have a fire embankment by the channel of the river guarding well the road leading to and from the Falls. I am strongly attatched to our encampment as a natural fortification considering all points it has never been but by no place that we have ever found.
Clothing we learn from our expressman were upon the road and our supplies were very limited only being sufficient to cause dissatisfaction in our [regiment]. We received Maj Gen Hindman Salt elevators who upon calling for rations were issued 3 years of corn to the [Man] - Received some encouragement from Hd Qtrs in the way of Genl Ander[y] All fair promises; All are to come after we are continually fed from Such Airs prescription and never are known to be supplied only in that ______ article.

Case of Foreman & Cordrie
Cherokee Regiment Dec 3, 1862

I am very well aware that there are certain individuals now in our command who are ready and ever willing to pass sentence upon me for the course I presumed in taking and sending to Genl Cooper Head Qtrs the men who lately killed Lovely Cordrie Somewhere near or in the vicinity of Ft Gibson - And in Justice to myself and to Sustain the course that I saw proper to pursue in the case. I here set forth the particulars as well as is in my Judgment correct.
Return Foreman came to Qt M Camp where I was setting with many others [including] QM and others I asked him what news from the Pins - he reply none only he thought there was a few Settlers one in the vicinity of Tahlequah and that they have done the work for one of them (or one that goes with them) He stated that they heard of him passing or leaving some place below Park Hill and they went in persuit and he disarmed them and him upon whitch they made chase [running] upon him firing at him, and there they taken him prisoner and afterward killed him. States that himself and Andy Johnson and Henry Lawery were the 3 men who killed Cordrie, And that they were ready for trial. I Stated to him that it was my duty to send them below, not that they have killed a Pin, but for the special act of killing a prisoner. I consulted no person, only looking forward to Genl Orders and my duty in the position I accept in the Confederate Service.
Reports from other sources that satisfyed me in my being right in so doing was that the party killing Cordrie or a portion of it had threatened before and that Cordrie was caught near the place of Capt Lipe or Capt Fishs and was taken for several miles below near Gibson probibly before that place in the bottom where he was killed and left laying upon the ground. These reports as stated to me as fact that can be proven, and that Sertain individual taken the body and buried it I made no enquirie and have made no exception to ascertain fact or sent do comment upon the officers

1862 3 Dec
Wednesday
General Orders. All Company Commanders will [carry] immediate inspection of arms and equipment and have the same put in good order and ready for active duty and the OS of each company will report the Same to these Head Quarters.
Special Order
Leut Brown of Co E will report here immediately with his full command with arms inspected and ready for active duty with blankets & bedding & ce.

All ____________ footmen being to the Several Companies will report themselves Under arms at this Head Qtr by Sundown this [evening] for inspection.
_______ Col Stan L Watie
Comdg Che Regt

Orders came in by Express from Genl Cooper for our immediate march from here to Evansville, in consequence of having no clothing to distribute Sending only 300 Shirts Whitch is the upshot of all Genl Hindmans fine promises and [grand] Order for Clothing Reports exhibitions of our nakedness and fe c.
All preparations were made for a general move early in the morning. Order for equipment and extra bagage or Sugar & Iron and empty boxes were stored away at Webbers Fall and plenty beef [Order barbecued]

Commanders of Companies will pay strict attention to and see that such individual will supply himself with at least five days rations, cooked, and ready for a march by sunrise tomorrow morning by order Genl Stan L Watie Webbers Falls - Commanding 1st Che Regt

Ammunition will be issued to commanders of Companies ____ time this evening but none will be issued after. And every soldier is expected to have at least [ten ready]
All soldiers not having horses will be ____ under Command of One 1st Leut and one 3rd Leutent and are to farm a guard for Ammunition and ______ & 2nd Train & the officers having such Command are instructed to perform thire respective duties The same as if in their own Companies. And the Same order and discipline will be enforced upon the soldiers as if in there Several company comds Ammunition and train guards are to Keep well with the train always ready for any emergency and never allowed to Scatter there forces and lodge away time along road and by the ways -
Rode up with Capt John Vann and [remained] over night and bye the bye was loser of one box sugar to be sent for to Ft Smith.

Tuesday Dec 4
Col Watie has his Scout ready for moving just before night, Clothing came in late yesterday evening and was over hauled by the [box tons] before any sleep could be had, and Such parts picked over as was wanted and the negros - and teamsters were clothed before the Soldiers could have [any showing] Such as was cooked for by our Staff mess were the first to draw clothing before our Soldiers. The Col carried off all that had horses many of whom returned before the could cross the river
And from the manner in whitch they went off many more will be back before git very far from Camp.
Sleeted and rain in the afternoon and was rather disagreeable Some indication of bad weather. Head Quarters / 1 st Che Regt

Capt J W Wells
I am given to understand that the men Sent down by my order while left in comd. to Genl Coopers Head Qtrs to answer to charges against them for the killing of Cordrie, has been set at liberty by Genl Coopers order, whitch is altogether satisfactory with me. And I am pleased to see that the boys were not punished for what was decidedly taken by them as a good policy, but by no means approved by me and now in justification of the course that I saw proper to adopt in so doing, now compels me to make some more allusions to the case as I have had no Official information or instructions relative to it either by Genl Cooper or Col Watie Since Return Foreman reports the case to me himself States that he got information of Cordice leaving some house below Park Hill Just before he got to it and that himself Andy Johnson and Henry Lowery went in pursuit, and after riding some distance came in sight and made chase, and Cordrie running and tried to make his escape where upon he was fired upon and and after some further resistance Cordrie was captured and then taken prisoner and then the work was done for him. Other reports confirmed the fact of the captured as above stated and that Cordrie was brought some 12 or 14 miles to some place betwixt Gibson and Frozen Rock where he was killed by the parties and was buried near that place by some of the citizens This I report only as I got it. And as it was [revealed] Several months ago that Cordries life was threatened by parties of our Command and the accusion happening something after the stile as might have been expected I sent the boys down thinking it might learn them a lesson of some benefit Upon their return I am told they are or a part of them are boasting largely upon Genl Cooper Sending them back with particular instruction to kill every Pin they might find, which I feel confident is not exactly as is here stated to the young men of our Regiment but as I have had no Order upon the Subject am unable to say whether I have been taking undue austerity with our soldier or not, I rite you this for that information. And hope you will cause instruction give me only Such as will Set all minds at ease as to who shall have the right of Judging who shall live or who shall die.
Most truly your Obd Sevt
RC Parks Lt Col
Col Stand Watie Comdg
Cherokee Regt

Capt J W Wells
Col Watie crost the river yesterday evening about 4 0' clock P. M. at Webbers Falls and taken up his line of march in an easterly direction with some 400 men under 27 Officers and 4 days rations. Several men will follow on this day. The remainder are incampt here Composed of foot men and men of no arms
We are looking for another company in today that was to organize yesterday on Canadian who will be with out arms The Col took no wagon with him, the weather being so bad at the time of his start that he was fearful that the necessary speed could not be made with them. Clothing was received and issued before he got off. No news of enemy.
Your Respectful & Obt Sevt
R C Parks LtCol
Cmdg Camp at Webbers Fall

Genl Cooper
Cmdg Ind Brigade
Scullyville
Charges preferred, Considerable 10th ____ Dec
Head Qr to Skullyville
Leut Ketchin Tehee Co H - for deserting Post and giving false alarm while on Piquet at Lynches [Tar]yard
Tom Anderson Adj
Leut John Childers, Co N leaving Post while in command piquet near _____ gap Horse Creek
Capt McFrye Co D
Capt Jas Butler Co G. for refusing to obey a written order for the Col commanding on Horse Creek
Sergt Maj J Morgan
Leut C V Rogers Co G for running horse against written order while on Horse Creek.
Sergt Maj Morgan
Leut James Benge Co N for running horse against written order Sergt Maj. J Morgan
Leut John Mclelance Co C for drunkenness and unbecoming conduct while on Special duty to Sherwood and Spring river battle ground.
Leut. Knight with Capt Butler Co G for illegally and unjustifiably arresting certain discharged Soldiers while going from place of discharge home, and detaining their [arms] from feeling of prejudice - Capt M C Frye

Capt Jas Butler for drunkenness and disorderly conduct while in command of Scout to Smith Mountain
Sergt Maj Morgan & Capt Frye
Capt charles Lowry Co C For absenting himself from the regiment without permission
Tom Anderson Adj
Leut John Mclelance for absenting himself from regiment without permission
Adjunct
Capt Bill Alberty absenting himself from duty and the regiment without permission.
Adj
Co D will see what amount of Labor is yet due from Wm Marshall being 4 days fatigue
David White Sentenced 6 days fatigue duty and fined seven dollars.

Dec 5 Friday
We moved a mile or so up the river near the head of the bottom. Our encampment was high and dry - being up on an elevated plain at the north end of a small field
Col ______ men continued to come in complaining of horses having been given out
Head Quarters
First Che Regt
A regimental Courtmartial is hereby appointed to meet at [Head Quarters] 6 day of Dec or as soon thereafter as practicable for the trial of such cases as are charged with being absent from their respective companies as may be charged, and such other cases as may be brought before in Court. Detailed for Court
Capt jack Spears
Lt Robt Miller
Capt C Lawery
Capt Howland Judge Advocate
No other officer than those appointed shall be allowed to assemble.
By order of R C Parks
Leut Col Comdg Camp
Dec 5th 1862
Such men as are sentenced to fatigue duty will be required to attend and keep fires and do Service as they may think proper
By Order of R C Parks LtCol
Comdg Camp Webbers Fall

All person reported for being absent without leave or written permission are hereby requested to appear before the aforesaid Courtmartial convened this day for the trial of such cases as may be brought before it, at Head Qtr and answer such charges & fail not
R C Parks Lt Col
Comdg Camp

Capt J W Wells
Sir - Since the Order of Maj Genl Hindman for a general [miner] I find it impossible to sent down the accused Officer of our Regiment _______ of the few who are in camp we have several who are somewhere below that we do not know the whereabouts and such as are here and would be incomplete to attend are the Cols only dependence I therefore am compelled to ask of you to allow us such time as would allow us that allowance of leasure as would justify our attendence all at one court, You can best judge of such time as we would have that ifficiency I hope we soon have such time as would allow our ___ to be S_____
Truly your Obdt Servt
RC Parks Lt Col
*I send you down the charges that are first to come before the court You will please place them on your docket and let us know at what other day after the 10th that would be more suitable Capt Vann

Dec 6th Saturday
Henry Thompson reports for duty in Capt Frye Co J
Charles Holt reports in Camp 17 men Drummed of [Service] Maj Thompson greatly dissatisfied and wanting to quit the Service Had all hands mastered on line at H Qtrs and Roll Call. Several recruits were proven and Capt C Holt and men was received and Sworn. Had only a few of his men, all did not come as the day was bad=day -
Our Salt men came down for a escort to go up to Judge McKeys lick
Capt J W Wells
I forward to you by bearer our regular report for the week early Monday 8th First, our rolls Stand very much as last reported, finding no marks upon the printed forms for sick absent, we have included them in the line of Absent with leave and making note of that fact up the _____. Such persons as is referred to as being absent without leave are those let off by Col Watie Several weeks back and are coming in very slow, they are laying of under the pretence of providing for their families. We are gaining a few recruits ever day or so. Capt C Holt reported his Company Organization, and excuses them for there non appearance by the inclemency of the weather You may find some other variations in our reports Organization [partley] from the present flustered State of the ______ regiment at this time, We have considerable some sickness lately, and it appears to be upon the increase.
Anderson Adjt
1st Cherokee Regiment

Dec. 7th 1862 Sunday
Capt J Wells
Sir I have hertofore had to my own knowledge, requisition drawn both for arms and ammunition and forwarded to Head Quarter where we have reason to believe and suppose they were promptly and duly noticed, and all proper attention paid them. We are absolutely in greate want of some direct assistance, and hope that though our [awkwardings]in, and _____ of, precise forms - and official Style would by no means be sufficient causes for any neglect, or [hindrance] to our supplies as is very _______ and requisite from the calls we have ventured to make. We are told here that [arises] and espionages are now plentiful down at or about Ft Smith and Van [Bureu], Since the troops in that vicinity their late outfits We have Signed Requisitions for a very Stout supply of _____ for our unarmed soldiers, and have been willing that we even git the arms of such Soldier who have been gitting better out fits, and would be glad to have received the old [shot] gives that has lately been giving way for the new arms, received, and anything like Cap & Cartridge boxes would do better, and more ____ of Ammunition than nothing. I have signed Requisition that with a little constructions would answer to a call of that nature, and as far as I can learn and from hung nothing from them after has been past by as worthless.
I have also signed requistion for Ammunition, giving the kind, quality, and dimention of our few guns and in turn receive a keg or so of Course Musket Powder at other times all lead, then Cannon Powder, and have on hands at least 3000 imitation of [Q D Caps] - one from every six will fire. And upon our last requisition for Caps we received 500 Musket Caps - that are generally used on holster Pistols, Muskets and all kinds of long range guns, and was sufficient to give to such man wanting such, for the p____t Scout about 3 caps to the [peice], at the same time we have nine kegs of Musket Powder of th every coursest class ---unless we can induce some on, by some means, to assist and [astance] oru progressive State, You need not be surprised at goose quills. Clockwheels and red ribbon, hated, Confederate drudges, and dead drags non ______ on to the [Confederate government] Our QuarterMaster has not, and cannot at present raise Confederate money anough to pay an expressmans nights lodging, and the continual cry is we have non on _____ - but next week come down and I will there try and furnish you some, to come or go down it cost money and a living to git anywhere. And so we have been partly [horsed] off and elbowed from Stern to Stearn, - pressing, Jayhawking - and issuing Certified assent until we have become a terror and dread to our own country and friend
Should your supply departments not be able to fill the above Requisitions - I shall, Capt, depend upon You to have it, Officially O______ and forwarded to Brigadier Genl Rome for the necessary supplies
Very Truly Your Obt Sevt
R C Parks Lt col
Cmdg Post Webbers Fall

Capt J W. Wells
Head Qrs 1st Brig
Ind Territory

Regimental Court Martial is hereby appointed to meet this day Dec 8th at these Head Quarters for the trial of Joseph Lynch & Walter Daniels Co L for absenting themselves from the regiment without written permission, and such other cases as may be brought before the court.
Detail for Court
Capt C Lowry Co C
Leut Robert Miller Co L
Leut Chas Woodall Co B
Capt G J Howland Judge Adt
No other Officer save those appointed shall be permitted to assemble.
by Order R C Parks
LtCol Comdg Camp
Webbers Falls

Capt Holt will take the men of his company and return to the Canadian or any other place that the remainder of his enlisted company can be found and there notify them of the necessity of their being soon in Camps. And all provost & guards who have not reported themselves to these Hd Qtrs in Compliance with Genl D. H. Coopers Orders are hereby notified to appear forth with and report for duty. All Confederate Soldiers of this comdg will also be brought in or otherwise be considered deserters.
Dec 7th 1862 By Order R C Parks Lt Col
Comdg Post Webbers Falls

All women and deserted families, whos husbands & fathers have deserted their homes, families and country, and joined the Pins and Feders are hereby offered the protection necessary to the safety and Security of their person, and such property as rightfully and by the existing law of Justice can be proven to be held seperate and exclusive of such Husband or man so deserting, And all person by such proof before Legalized authority Shall at all hazzard be secured and protect in such afore said property. And all Soldier in the Confederate Service are hereby forbidden, the taking or molesting of any afore mention property under the penalty of incurring an act deserving reverse punishment. And any person or person laying any claim or pretension to aforesaid property as can be proven as ever belonging to Such afore said deserters, And not sold by them for 6 month before the date of this Shall incur the penalty of the forfeiture of all property held by such claimant and subject to confiscation therefore
Dec 7th By Order R C Parks Lt Col
1862 Comdg Post Webbers Falls

We have nothing to do today And received no News from our forces. I have been very anxious to have some good news. Dr Fisk and myself were trying to have some cows sent to vacinate for Small Pox matter Camps reduced to Beef Salt and Spicewood Tea our corn wagons did not git this [coming from Hildebrand Place or we would have had 3 ears of corn each [Illegable sentence] We send down our report for the 8th by the Salt man detailed hand to drive Cattle aways, being cattle confiscated being Gunters and Ross -

Monday 8th Dec
Harry Shaw, tried by CourtMartial for Leaving Regiment without permission, was acquitted, Nothing further than detail for cole and beef and other necessarys for camping duties, received note from Hed Quarter regarding Tents & c.

Hd Qtr 1 Che Regt

Capt J W Wells
Sir The tenting of this regiment will be found apportioned as follows To _____
41 - A Tents open in front - to 945 men
23 men to each tent
2 Wall Tents for 52 men or 26 men to each tent
J Thompson Capt
Approved RC Parks Lt Col Comdg Webbers Falls

HeadQuarters 1st Che Regt
Genl
I hereby nominate for Regimental Ordinance Sergt - for this 1st Che Regt Charles E [Edwards] of Co K and have assigned him that Office until further orders R C Parks Lt Col
Comdg Post Falls

Capt J W Wells
Inclosed please find a true report of Tents now on hand in our command, and a ____ ___ of last morning report, and compaired the asme with Genl Orders - No 27
I do not think i tnecessary to enclose any Requisition, as it is but very seldom we are able to have one filled
Very Truly Your
Obt Sevt
Cmdg Post Webbers Falls R C Parks LtCol

Tuesday 9th Dec
Col D W McIntosh
Dr Sir Complaints have been made here of Creek from your Comd or native who have fire and said to be yet killing hogs and cattle belonging to our Citizen in and about [Bayou] Salt Lick If such is the case, you will please use your endeavor to prevent the same I hope you will do so, as our folks are very anxious to get back to their own homes and kill their own property R C Parks Lt Col

All persons who may go, or come from any place knowingly where the Small Pox may be caught and come in to our Camp Shall be arrested and tride by CourtMartial for such offence, and [punished] as the Court may think proper
R C Parks LtCol
Leut Ketcher Teehee will take a detail of men and proceed down to the falls and there stop our wagons coming from Scullyville and stop all men who may be coming up from Scullyville and have the teamsters and other to stop in Bill Doubleheads houses and there await further orders. R C Parks
Che Regt Dec 9th 1862 Comdg Post

Capt W Wells
The [board] of this is in pursuit of his nephew Jas W Martin, who was taken by Genl Marmadukes men while on Scout in the vicinity of Tahlequah. The Negro boy as is referred to you can best investigate their cases and decide upon their fates, as is necessary
I know nothing of the parties spoken of only can refer you to Capt Joseph Martin who is uncle to Jas W Martin.
Yours truly & Respectfully
RC Parks Lt Col
Comdg Post

Wed 10th
David Vann I inclose to you a blank form whitch I hope you will fill out each day in every _______ and return the same - Tuesday 16th in ______
Very Truly Your friend
RC Parks
Comdg Webber Falls

All persons both Citizen and Refugees noncombatants claiming to be peaceful citizens, who have so Subjected themselves as to claim partial favors and clemency of both Confederates and Federals, are hereby so Ordered, and not allowed to visit or come within The lines of our encampment without written express permission, under no pretence What ever. And any such aforesaid person who may be caught within the lines of our Camp Guards shall be charged as a spy and tried as such by CourtMartial.
[And all such communication with the Pins and all person who may be found within five miles of this camp are strictly forbidden, and any person who may be found chargeable with [cursing] on Such Shall be tried the same as is set forth in first case.]
And whoever [may] relieve the enemy with money ________ or ammunition or knowingly protect and harbor or hold correspondence with, give intelligence to any enemy shall suffer death or such other punishment as may be inflicted by a Court Martial.
R C Parks Lt Col Comdg Ft Webber Falls

Thursday 11th Dec
Leut Rogers Co [G] will Take a detail of men and proceed with [greate dispatches] in the direction of Evansville and if posable deliver a letter to Col Stand Watie, where ever found And should any discovery be made of any movement by the enemy he will dispatch to us by one of his party immediately, and should it be found imposable to git through to the Col we will not use too greate a risk of being taken By Order R C Parks Lt Col
Capt [Joe] Vann & Capt C Holt appears and have come in contack and Capt Joe Vann it appears is abov getting all of Capt Holts men. Capt Joe Vann having been duly appointed in times past to H______ of a company of Provost Guards And Capt C Holt finding a soft place in Capt Vanns slackness to bring his company in to the regular Service, Capt Holt seeing the handle, caught at the bate and went the rounds in pursuit of Staffing for such a company as would acknowledge his as its [pate.] Where up Capt Vann finding himself some beneath the age of non-combatance, and upon finding Holt about being Successful he turns out upon Nettles.

Moved Camps - After Sending Genl Cooper dispatches on to Col Watie and Col D N McIntosh - Also received letter from Genl Cooper, Our News is Camp _______ Just below the fall _____ hard on to the river and cain bottom. Dr Evans passes up to Creek Regiment where he has been assigned to duty Hd Qtrs

Genl
Yours of yesterday was received early this morning, And in compliance I forwarded to Col Stand Watie your letter by an officer and 8 men, we have heard nothing from the Col Since his departure from here, am looking every hour for Something from him Yours to D N McIntosh was forwarded immediately upon its receipt.
I am informed that his forces are considerably scattered and that the Col has only one or two Cmpanies now on duty I have our trains and men in as near a condition to move as I will ever considering our condition being dependant ____ cane and grass for forage but am at all times ready to try and comply with our Order Your Obdt Servt
R C Parks Comdg

Hd Qrtr 1 st Che Regt
Webbers Falls CN
Genl D H Cooper Superintendent Indian Affairs
Sir I have been necessarily compelled in Several instances to portion out small quantities of corn that we have bought for our regiment, to citizen and refugees who come petitioning for a sufficient quantity to [feed] women and children. And knowing as I do, the Scarcity of the article and the greater demand for such a substance among the remaining citizens here and above this point I could not refuse dividing in every case that I thought deserved it And as I have no wish to trespass, I would be glad you would give me some instruction in regard to it, and what disposition are to be made of such case. We have no one here who are interesting themselves in that relation.
Your Obt Servt
R C Parks
Comdg Post

Hd Qtrs 1 st Cherokee Regt
Dec 12th 1862

Genl
Friday 12th Dec Upon the evening that Col Watie crossed the river here and was marching in the direction Of Evansville, a raid was made in the neighborhood of Tahlequah by a force of 2 companies numbering not over one hundred men under Capts White Ketcher and [Fish Fredesul], Cherokees who its said captured Mr Hawkins and Hitchcock together with some others whose names I can not now remember, at any rate are led to the belief of its being an easy Capture, excepting Mr Hawkins - who we are led to believe a good Southern man The extent of damage done we are unable to learn, though from the short time they remained they could not have done much as they came over and returned across Illinois the same day at or near the same time a small party made their appearance a short distance [near] Gibson. Robert A____ Irons and after other family carried of some horses Nothing farther
Your Obdt Servt
R C Parks
Comdg Post

Dec 13th 1862
Forward letters and dispatches to Genl Cooper Sends detail of eight men under officer with two wagon to Shell corn at Hildebrands place and to be sent to Mill at [Tuckabatch] base northfork. Received Story from return soldier from Col Watie Comdg, who states that dispatches were received at the camp near Dutch Mills from Col Watie and Capt Wells to the effect of a great battle coming of in the neighborhood of Cane Hill Battle ______ Sunday and was fought furiously until late at night was renewed early Monday morning and ceased some where about 11 O' clock. Federal are said to have given away and was pursued in the direction of Bentonville leaving behind some 6000 killed and wounded 200 wagons 15 pieces Cannon and all other [stores] Our loss was not known but reported considerable Same source state that Col Waties force killed some 10 or 14 Pins in passing through from here to Evansville One of Capt Spears men report Some of Choctaws as being very bad, having while in the vicinity of Flint that 4 Choctaw men did actually ketch and ravish a woman supposed to be a Pin.
Saturday 13th
Received late last night 1500 water proof Caps, Tenting & c. Appointment of C Edmonson to Ordinance Sergt.
Rained very steddy and deep clouds [very heavy] and constant showers set in. One case of the Small Pox made it appearance in our hospital yesterday. I visited the Hospital and finding in the Small Pox had Mr [Reliet] moved down to Mr Somebody - old stone house.

Capts Howland, Foreman and Alberty you are hereby appointed aboard of [Servay] to examine and take account _______ of the Clothing and Tents received by A. G. M. for our regiment and give in an exact report of the number and condition of the same to A. G. M.

Wagons came in rather early with a few more _____ [quilts] and ______ mutton _____.

Camp Guards shall have a Guard fire and Shall remain at all times there when not on Post. Every Camp Guard Shall Serve a Tour of 24 hours - whitch time will be divided in to as many reliefs as the Sergt Maj May think necessary
Sentinels shall stand or walk their post and are to hault and demand pass or permission of every person who may wish to pass. The Highest respect is due a Sentinel, and no person has either the right or privilege of Joking or Jesting with them, while doing duty on post.

Sunday 14
We were all day dividing a few Suits of clothing and dividing a few small dress coats betwixt the officer. Many more Suits were wanted and considerable grumbling Still continued in consequence Officers were situated all in line and the A.G.M. requested to issue the coats to them. Some got good Coats, but many a large man got such as would have hardly fit their youngest boys - Ark River, Canadian and Dirdy raised considerably.
Head Quarters 1 st Che Regt
Genl
Sir I cannot think, you are rightfully [appraised] of the way and manner in whitch our Salt Works are now being conducted here we have but the one Saline now being worked, and each set of [opperaters] claim to be making salt, under grants from Government or by military authority, we have the third time called afore them for a Supply for our Small Command and was at last able by waiting a few days to git four bushels - while we know Salt has been made and sold to near every one person am able to pay four dol per bushel I suppose they claim the right to one half for the making whitch they are selling at a very high price and the other half whitch is intended for the C.S.A. at two dol per bushel, harldy ever turns out anything.
Wagon came from a distance and are supplied and Citizens and refugess having the camp [wrate] bill can git very r______. This morning the Saline changed hands again used the new opperators - have brought up several wagon from below, to be loaded immediately, and should they engage in the packing [Trade], and becoming business we can hardly git another supply this winter I taken it upon myself the other day to send to the operators a blank form, to have filled and returned to me, giving the amount made every 24 hours and sold CSA every 24 hour and the amount sold citizens in same Time and the price to each and quantity so dispersed the 6 days following. And from what I can learn I may look for no reply. Should we be entitled to any portion for CS army use we ought have it, and Should we be allowed to furnish our destitute families with that article I feel [inclined] to think it could be done at a more reasonable rate than four dol per bushel Very truly Your Obdt Servt
R C Parks Lt Col

Genl
I am strongly impressed with the idea, that above and aside from our regiment we can easily raise one good company of artillerymen, and by the advantage of this winters drill we could turn out next Spring with a force fully capable of rendering good service and far superior to any Indian force you have ever had.
I write directly hoping you may consider our case and let us know immediately whether, we could have a company of this kind carefully drilled at some suitable point this winter and give us little pieces of cannon next spring. I have strong confidence in what we might do provided we had the chance, and feel decidedly safe in saying that we will yet have considerable fighting to do for our Country and would be glad we could have every advantage that could be allowed.
You will please let us know your advise and whether we may trouble _____ in raising a company or not from our men. We would be pleased with having the first Indian Artillery company and would regret very much indeed at giving it now to our enemy. Your Obt Sevt
R C Parks

H Qtrs 1st Cher Regt
Dec 16 1862
Genl
We have now received a very good supply of tenting and when we git all up that has been granted us I dare say we will have plenty in clothing, we ______ are much better off. Yet we have several barefooted and other with a skant supply of winter dress. We are now in greater hopes of our being as well supplied as we could expect under the pressure of events. We are deficient in arms & ammunition now and find it a great drawback to our service. We have requistion in for both articles and am awaiting every day to hear of them being filled. Our Camp now are being filled entirely with a new set of Spirits Since shoes, clothing and Tent have been among us. Our rank are upon the increase and our hopes are brightening every hour and Just so soon as you are able to supply us with plenty of arms ammunition and a little to eat we will be found as merry as Killkussey cats. One case of Small Pox has shown itself among our men. One from the party of Livingstons men, that I suspected of having it in this company was the first to take it. I am very much afeard we will be troubled with it. We have a great deal of winter fever, our sick reports are gaining rather largely upon our returns, This weeks returns will show an increase from 53 to 91 whitch is too great for the increase you will find in our full total of men present One company of Major Bryants Battalion is here, and parts of the two companys just being raised of whitch we make no report yet though we are issuing rations to and [hours] on duty
R C Parks Lt Col

Held CourtMartial and one case of the rights of property Col Jno Drew came down. Head some [women] in with us. Capt B Alberty Leuts Watie & [Severny] were on CourtMartial. River high and upon ________ We had another time dividing clothing among the men, having only a few suits it became very tedious We had our paper all arranged for to send below Just so soon as the stage of the water will permit.

Dec 16 1862
Refugee Supplied Public
Dec 12th Received of Joe N Chandler five bushels corn for the use of my destitute family.
Aunah Ratliff
Dec 12th Received of Joe N Chandler five bushels corn for the use of my destitute family
Elzira Rogers
Dec 13th 1862 Received of Joe N Chandler five bushels corn of my destitute family.
Susannah Woodard
Dec 12th 1862
Received of Joe N Chandler five bushels corn for the use of my destitute family.
Sarah Fields
Dec 12th 1862
Received of Joe N Chandler five bushels corn for my destitute
Elizabeth Fields
Dec 16th 1862 Received of Joe N Chandler six bushels corn for the use of my destitute family
Capt B Wisner

Head Qtrs
1st Che Regt
Genl
Sir, I regret having so often to call your attention to matters of our conserns but from the interest felt for both the wellfair of our Soldier and Confederacy it becomes necessary for some persons to have you rightfully informed upon the present condition of Our soldiers and the different department of our regiment and to its possible results Provided some immediate remedy are not considered in proper time. Therefore what I intend alluding to and refer to your consideration are unmistakable fact whitch are sure, and may be expected. We have received and dispatched 500 suits (a Jacket & pr Pants) 500 pr Drawers 500 shirts 378 Hats & caps 78 Comforts and Oil blankets 52 drip coats 25 [over] shirts 300 pr shoes & boots 19 1/2 pr wool socks.
These have don very well so far, and I have not the least doubt but we will yet receive a s______ We have disposed of them the best we could giving the most bar and needy first & so on
But what I wish to remind you of is our condition after having received and dividing these off. Now among all the suits and clothing issued there is not 20 person from the whole, who can show the Second Suit or change Such was our destitute condition at the time of our getting our Clothing, Such clothing as was worn before was not actually worth picking up again after once getting it off. This fact I call to your attention, not by no means that we expect you to attend to all department of your Division, but we do know that many persons employed whose duty it is to pay due attention to such are after apt to neglect Such to the last hour and that a very few words from yourself in that direction would be worth more than all the letters we could write them Our train too deserves immediate care and attention and should nothing better be done than grazing for these by Spring we will have no mules as well as horses we are grazing upon the best we can find and our stock has never all their [own] time. Still our mules are failing fast, and are not now able to draw half loading. Some have in the last few day died, and by the last of January I cannot Safely say we will be able to serve one team, our horses are becoming just as useless. And should no movement North be expected, Our trains had much better be taken South till Spring for public safety, We would ourselves prefer remaining upon our soil but can see but little help Such mules and horses would be for us, in this country. Can we only get our own subsistence we would be highly pleased & cc
Truly Your Obdt Servt
R C Parks Lt Col
Post Webbers Falls

Dec 17
Wanted for the 1st Cherokee Regiment a company of artillerymen, active, healthy, and able bodied. Single men are preferable as close application to drill will be required during the winter All preferring that Service will call in at our Head Quarter and have their names enrolled.

Starts dispatches down to Genl D H Cooper Received letters from him and Hindman relative to a move by a party of Pins in this direction from Cane Hill Call upon men for [registration] showing all the ammunition Serviceable hours.

Head Qurts 1st Che Regt
Dec 17 Webbers Fall

Dec 17th 1862
Genl your Order was received late yesterday evening I immediately [cause] our Ordinance supplies to be carefully examined and find it impossible to furnish a very large Scout. All the Ammunition used by us in last tour above was spoiled by becoming dampened. Our men were for some time in a heavy rain and having no cartridge & Cap [bars] ______ very last
I will go out myself in command of about one hundred men and shall try and comply with your request. I leave Maj Thompson in command of our encampment and train. I Shall upon every necessary occasion report to you without delay.
Truly & Respectfully
RC Parks Lt Col
Blank forms of Inspection Report will be filled directly and forwarded to Head Qtrs, through Capt J W Wells - also a Requisition for Ammunition will be made out and forwarded from our Ordinance Sergt, approved by commander and directed to Division Department through Capt J. W. Wells
No passes will be granted for a longer [Term] then 3 days only then when actively _____ from sickness & other [cures] equally as requested
Camp Guards will by all means be ______ and kipt up night and day - allowing no one to pass - only such as abtain passes-
Capt Jm vanns - camping will be received and furnished [Lowe] Tenting and provision as worth of our Soldiers and enlisted upon our duty report
The arrangement of our next Camp must be more _____, like,
Our wagon might be sent up above gibson for some wheat and sugar [yit]in that [gather] All care and attention must be paid on ______ and when needed bread & _____ must be sent [from ou own Camp for them]
Head Qtrs - 1st Che Rgt
Col D W McIntosh

This morning I will go myself with a Scout Ordered out across the river I may be in the direction of Tahlequah & Grand River Should you send any Scout out you must advise them as my being [in the] country above some where. Our Flag is 2 red strip white bar on the middle, and nothing more -
Respectfully & Truly Yours
R C Parks Lt Col
Cmdg Post Webbers

Dec 18th
I gathered up a Scout of Something over one hundred men and crost over the river near our Camp. River deep. had to cross at several fords. Taken road leading to Mackeys Place and [Lick] past Mackeys place about sun down and got to Robin Lovetts where we camped for the night 20 miles We were only able to get a little fodder for our horses and a little meat for ourselves. We made fires of his yard fence and he was the loser of several B__ J____s 2 shovels and several chickens. As for how much else I am unable to say.
Dec 19th
We moved early up to Jack Cookstons where we had plenty corn & oats and hog meat as Jack Cookston was with the Pins we taken the liberty of foraging off him at his own expense. We keep a good guard over the houses at every place and allowed nothing disturbed only such as we needed and was compelled to eat. Our advance captured a Cherokee at home by the name of Bird, we taken him for a pin and carried him along with us.
After a late and very good breakfast we left by the Park Hill road Sending out Scouts in Several directions. Near Park Hill our advance saw some person disappear to our right through the woods. Also routed some Pins and negros found Jim Ross horse lot where they were pening horses. We got a musket they had dropped and one or two poney left in the lot, 12 miles
Tahlequah 5 miles We searched Dobson Races place for corn, found none worth taking, boys gits in to a [bea] _____ or so. Leut Wm Turner comes up on our right with old Capt Kerr a prisoner, caught near the mouth Barren Fork. Kerr had [darken] the woods and aimed surrounding our line Just after we past Park Hill and in doing so he took up a breast our right flankers The boys had exchanged horses with him before they got up to me, giving him and ordinary poney for a large Chestnut Sorrel mare. I had him to give his Great Coat to one of our Soldier and another of them gives him an old Pin hat for a neat black hat. I only remained in town a very short while Saw aunt Susan Taylor who had Just returned from Hildebrands Mill. Had no news of any importance. Lead out from Tahlequah upon the Maysville Road. Took the left and encamp at Judge Thorns, 8 miles. Bought stock fodder and pork.

Dec 20th Up bright and early and upon the road leading to upper Spring Creek where we found corn and beef a plenty, at a Pins house where we expected to find a few Pins but was disappointed only finding a few women and a fine lot of children. This house was completely robed We found several articles Just brought down from the Federal Camp Alma Salt, new prints and many small hicks, here the boys Swapped horses again with these Pin women, in the evening we past on down the Creek and over to Joe Vanns place on Vanns Prairie, where we encamp for the night 25 miles Myself and Capt Blue Alberty roade up to Joe Rillys, 5 miles and back had plenty wheat, pork and eatables.

Dec 21st
We rolled out upon the road down the Grand River Way, past Several Pin houses but could not come up with any Pins We stopped late in the eavning and fed and ate at Hawks Place, where we find plenty corn and [stuffed] pork. We stopped for the night at Old Dan Colstins Place, where we got pork, had Corn with us we had brought down from Hawks where we lost Kerr, guard went sleep and allow him to walk off. Boys gits 2 [guard horses] here, both were tied up and fed near the house.

Dec 22nd
We left early passing 14 Mile Creek at Sam Walkingstick and fed and eats at a Creek house near Capt Lipes place, we stopped early at Lipes place and encampt for the night had plenty Sheaf wheat to feed upon
I taken 16 men and went in to Tahlequah by the Seminary. Ms Coral had just returned from the Federal Camp. Left them at Royes Mill, returned to Camp late at night

Dec 23rd
Sends Kerrs son home by Leut Rogers - raid we crossed the country to Patricks place below Park Hill. Sent Scouts in to Park Hill - could not hear of any Pins or Federals - Fed and ate plenty at Patricks. Left late and remained over night at Robin Lovetts
Dec 24th Wednesday
Left Robin Lovetts very early and past down Greenleaf, Crossing river at Joe Hildebrands place. Discharged our guns, git in to Camp late 2 O' clock. Dick Griffin Scouts gits from the Bayou. States that the Federal and Pins were seen marching in to Gibson about sunset.
25th Thursday
Col Sends out piquets to guard the fords on the river as high up as Joe Hildebrands. I roade up to Tom Starr on the Canadian. Had a deer hunt in the evening found no game.
26th Friday, went out again, hunted all day - found no gaim Gits 2 boxes sugar of Jack Walker - who had got in from Texas

Dec 27th Saturday
Myself Walker & Starr road over to Camps on Dirdy, Col was out up the river upon a Scout, Train was ready from [moved] camps Major had left with the command to look for a camping place. Wagons left not knowing where to go too. I followed after the train, men were scattered in all confusion, bout dark I found the train trying to cross Dirdy at Drews Lick. Only a few wagons were able to git over
Received note from D N McIntosh to Col Watie Stating he had captured a Creek, Capt of a Creek Company in the Federal Service, [Tulse Finney] and that he States to him that 200 Cherokees, 500 Creek 300 Feds were in Gibson and had come to turn the Creeks over to them or Commence hostility Captain [Tules Finney] was ______ to our camp and found to be an old neighbor of mine. I was unable to learn much from him as he would not talk english
We also learned from Capt Leuex that one hundred armed men, Feds had came in to the Agency and ______ _____ Col McIntosh and had a letter to deliver to him. They had nothing to say to others and would not see no one else would suit. Col McIntosh was not to be seen and then ______ about 3 hours and returned. The party was composed of Federal, Creek and Cherokees under a flag of truce, crossing the river up near that point I saw Capt Leuex, late after night and learned all he knew regarding the Creek and Feds when upon I concluded to have our Train moved South, had mules and trains soon upon the road for Canadian to cross the river and remain for further Orders
Dec 28th Sunday
Train on - We ate our beef and moved down to Derdy 6 miles where Col Watie came to us had no new from either McIntosh or the Federal We learn that our train was safe Cross the Canadian River, had nothing to eat but Park killed hogs and from the bottom I taken 5 men and returned to the piquet near Dick Croplins where we were guarding the ford above the falls I returned late in the night bought 50 [ears] corn at _____, for [300]

Webbers Falls
Dec 27th 1862
Genl
Inclosed you will find Col D N McIntosh letter to Col Watie and one to yourself - Col Watie is out somewhere up the river I send our train cross the Canadian river and there await further order
A Federal Capt with one hundred armed men crosst the river near the agency and show greater friendship to the Creeks.
I am fearful our Creeks will not do much fighting. I am afraid to trust to them. We would be glad you could send up a sufficient force to cope with the enemy mention by Col McIntosh Col Phillips is said to be in command of the Federal forces. A pretty strong force from below is all I think will save our Creeks
Yours & cc Truly
R C Parks

Brg Genl D H Cooper
Comdg Ind Ter
Monday 28th Dec
I was Ordered out by Col Watie to Scout in the direction of Gibson I called out 100 men, found 55 semiusable horses, left with the whole I could raise [rearing] piquets at Hildebrand Place. Went in by a trail [may] cross mountain by Starr deer in the water. Leut Bill Brewer with 6 or 8 men were my advance had rough road, and nothing to be found upon the way Our advance caught Starr due at home Setting at the [boards] near where his wife was washing he was dressed in Jeans Pants, Fed Jacket and a new shawl round his head. Brewer state that when he discovered them he attempted to run towards the house whereupon Return Foreman, headed him off from that direction and was [snapped] at by Foreman he then attempted to _____ the creek when he was fired up by Foreman and Jeff Bean. Foreman pistol ball catching his neck vein and Beans discharged from double barrele shot gun lodged a little below the shoulder, killing him dead upon his feet
Return Foreman, got his gun, Hat, belt and pistol Cartridge Box & c Crossed river at the Downing Ford. Saw Monty Cryer who had been a prisoner in the Federal Camp. He states the Federal forces at no more than 500 men.
We played off for Federal up Mrs Gage - her husband and 2 sons both serving in the Federal Services
We fed and had meat and honey from here, we encampt in the bottom at Bill Lowry Place on the byou Creek learned for sertain that the Federal had left and recrosst the line

Tuesday 30th We marched by a trail way for the old Cherokee Agency where we fed our horses upon Sheaf wheat found at Wm West place he being with his sons in the Federal Service. Meets with Mr Starns on his way from the Federal line where they released him yesterday while on line of march he reports only 500 hundred He meets with stragglers all the road from Broad Town to Park Hill but none after leaving that point
He states that all the negros in the country had been taken off. We returned down by Gibson where we received dispatch from Col Watie. Stating that Genl Hindman had fallen back from Ft Smith and that the Federal had possession of Van Buren and Ft Smith and that Genl Cooper was falling back upon the Boggy Depot road and that Col Watie was ordered to fall back up Washitaw Riv Joe Cribbs place on Canadian and Perryville, we crossed river at Rabbit ford Killed a yearling and packed it to Cordys Creek where we encampt I sent up a dispatch to Col McIntosh to fall back upon Camp Johnson South of South Canadian 200 Creek had just left Gibson before we got in, they returned by way of Mouth Grand River to the Agency Here we learned that a partie of 300 Federal and Indians, the day after entering the Agency under a flag of truce returned by way of the Rabbit Ford reentering the Agency And upon thire return burnt up Ft Davis The Creek forces had been furloughed and was all at thire homes at the time and men fears were intertaind _____ they might turn over to the Federal.
Wednesday Dec 31st 1862
Very cold. We moved early down the road toward _____ Town. [Leave] Hildebrands we taken right hand road or trail and stick the Dirdy road near the Louis Keyes Place, ponies began giving out and men began to duck paddle it.
Encampt under the mountain, 6 miles, bove Tom Starrs, had very good beef and a warm night of it.

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