PREFACE. THE Compiler of this volume is a native of Michigan, and although long an exile from its borders, he has never lost his affection for the beautiful country. He has revisited it a number of times, and in a former publication did what he could to make known its physical attractions and aboriginal lore. Whilst cognizant of the fact that an admirable History of the Territory was in existence, and that one or two good Gazetteers of the State had been published, he felt convinced that there was still needed, for the use of the general public, a more comprehensive volume, and that want he has now endeavored to supply. His leading object has been to prepare an authentic book of reference, rather than to make any display as a writer; and while he has been contented to perform the duties of a literary scout, the success of his present enterprise has been assured by the effective artillery of James H. Lanman and General John Robertson. To the first, who is a relative of the Compiler, he is indebted for the history of the Territory, from its earliest settlement down to the organization of the State; and the latter, who was the able and indefatigable Adjutant-General of Michigan during the War for the Union, has contributed a complete account of the important part which the State took in subduing the Rebellion. Not only has he chronicled the action of the Legislature, but he has taken special care to place upon the record, in compact form, the heroic achievements of the Officers and Soldiers who have honorably identified their names with. the State of their nativity or adoption. With regard to the biographical part of this volume, the Compiler alone is responsible. Although most of this information has been obtained from original sources, he did not deem it advisable to amplify his records more than was absolutely necessary. He regrets, however, that a few of his notices are more brief than they should have been; and, if any persons have been omitted altogether, who deserved notice on account of their association with Michigan, it is because his efforts to obtain the proper data were un successful. His leading intention has been merely to give the salient points in the lives of the persons who pass under consideration, referring the reader, who may desire further information, either to the historical narratives in the present volume, or to the more elaborate biographies hitherto published. Indeed, so far as the numerous officers are concerned, who acquired reputation during the Rebellion, or died the death of heroes, their services were found to have been so well depicted by General Robertson, that the Compiler has generally omitted their names altogether in his department of the work. To the many friends who have kindly assisted him, by their correspondence, he would tender his grateful acknowledgements. And, to the People of Michigan, he now dedicates this Historical Record, as an expression of his regard for their superior intelligence, persevering enterprise and exalted patriotism. GEORGETOWN, D. C., November, 1870. CHARLES LANMAN. CONTENTS. FIRST PART. CIVIL HISTORY OF MICHIGAN. General Description of the State.-Its Soil and Scenery; Heavily Timbered Land; First Advance of the French Missionaries and Travellers.-Brebeuf; Daniel; Pijart; Colonial Pioneers.-Merchants; The Rangers of the Woods; The French Peas- British Troops Advance into Canada; Battle of Quebec; Death of Wolfe The Fur Trade and American Independence.-Hudson's Bay Company; English Organization of the North-western Territory.—Arthur St. Clair appointed Governor; cil at Detroit; Message from the Spanish Settlements on the Banks of the Mississippi; Campaign of General Harmar; Campaign of General St. Clair; Campaign of General Wayne; Extension of French Settlements; Michigan surrendered to the United States; Condition of the Territory in connection with the Fur Trade; Currency employed in the Fur Trade...... Condition after the Surrender of the Posts.-Michigan erected into a Territory; General Hull appointed Governor; Detroit destroyed by Fire; Administration of the Law; Third Indian Confederacy under Tecumseh and the Prophet; Le Marquoit; Land Office established; Walk-in-the-Water; Population in 1811; Memorial from Michigan praying Aid from the General Government; Savage Outbreak; Operations on the Wabash; American Fur Company. War between Great Britain and the United States.-Defenceless condition of Michi- Transition from Territory to State.-Lewis Cass appointed Governor of the Terri- .... PAGE 58 64 69 79 85 91 Agriculture.-Population and Statistics; Government Lands; Value of Crops; Railroads.-Michigan Central Railroad and its Branches; Michigan Southern The Fisheries.-Their Commercial Value; Variety of Fish Taken; Principal Lo- gan.. Recent Developments.-The Grand Traverse Region; The Sand Dunes on Lake PAGE 103 107 115 120 124 126 130 133 140 SECOND PART. HISTORY OF MICHIGAN DURING THE REBELLION. Military Department of Michigan from 1861 to 1871... 143 Prefatory Notes.-Love of Michigan for the Old Flag; Necessity of an Historical 144 146 |