This is a letter written from Blairsville on January 20, 1838 to Govenor George Gilmer from John Butt, Jr outlining concerns about recent legislation authorizing Military companies, for the removal of Creek and Cherokee Indians, to be formed in counties where such companies did not previously exist. Apparently, Johns brother, Alfred, had organized such a company before the legislation was enacted and another one was being formed by Samuel Patterson. The letter outlines concerns that Pattersons Company will commit unprovoked violence against the Cherokees because his (Samuels) brother had been killed by Indians. Transcription: Dear Sir, I take action to drop you a line to inform you that the people of this county or a part of them is labouring under difficulties in consequence of the act passed at the last legislature authorizing companies to be raised by volunteers in the counties containing the Cherokee Circuit. You will see by examining the act that it authorized companies to be made up where there has not been companies made up and commission hear to four (heretofore) for the protection of said county or words to that amount. There was a company made up and commissioned here in this county 3 or four months ago for that purpose and as such there is no call agreeable to the act for any other company but there is a Gentleman in this County by the name of Samuel Patterson who is prejudice against the former Company and has got a parcel of men to form themselves into a company threw ambition and has been to your Excellency and says he has got a Commission which if he has it is unauthorized agreeable to the Act in my opinion you will please examine the Act particular and say which of these companies has the preference if any should be called out. I am fearful if Mr Pattersons company goes into service there will be cutting and slashing as he is prejudice against the Indians for it was his brother that got killed last fall which was supposed killed by the Indians. The former company is Mr. Alford Butt my brother and he holds himself in readiness subject to any call by you or any Legal authority. With high respects I remain your truly . John Butt, Jnr
Posted on: Thu, 20 Nov 2014 00:45:55 +0000
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