Thoughts on Theology and a Cure for Frostbite

       When we last left David Jones, he was visiting the Shawnee capital of Chillicothe.  We’ll pick up his story there.

       Saturday 23 [January 1773], in company with Mr. Irwine, went to see captain Mc Kee, who lives three miles about west and by north from Chillicaathee [Chillicothe]in a small town called Wockachaalli,  which signifies Crooked Nose's Place.  Here the captain's Indian relatives live, and some others.  This seems only a new town, not having as yet much ground cleared.  'Tis situated east of a creek, which I suppose to be a branch of Paint Creek.  Some of the Indians of this town have a large number of the best horses in the nation; nor are they worse supplied with cattle, so that they chiefly live by stock.  Captain Mc Kee was very courteous, and still promised well.—Returned the same evening to Chillicaathee.  The day following, being Lord's day, remained at Mr. Henry's reading [Thomas] Sherlock on revealed religion, which is a good book on that subject, and may be profitable to the reader: but if the author could have visited the Indians, he might have saved many arguments, and perhaps been more fully convinced, that without revelation there would have been little, or rather no religion among mankind.  It is granted, that the apostle speaks of the Gentiles which have not the law, yet do by nature the things contained in the law, &c.  'Tis true that nature may direct to some parts of the second table of the law, which includes our duty to man; but it is far from being evident, that it directs to the first table, which includes our duty more immediately to God;  nay, the scripture sayeth in this point, "that there is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.(Rom. 3:11)”  Had a deeper sensation of this truth, when amongst the Indians, than is common with us.  In this town were near twenty white people, some at least of them were disposed to hear the gospel, but dare not preach without leave from the Indians; for tho' when among us they are lambs, found them lions at home.  To be debarred from preaching on the Lord's day was very grievous, and made the day seem very long; nay, it seemed impracticable to attempt social prayer, for not a minute was certain to be free from the insults of rude heathens.  How great is the mercy to enjoy opportunities of worshipping God without fear! yet alas! how many are insensible of it! and under all advantages, remain  real heathens  in practice; “how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?”  ¹

 

       Here among the Shawnee Jones became more convinced of man’s utter inability to worship God in spirit and in truth apart from God’s own revelation of Himself in the Bible.  It is no coincidence that in those cultures that are without access to Bible we see the worst excesses of human nature.  What is equally sorrowful for Jones is the realization that in “civilized” cultures, where men have the opportunity to worship God freely, people often neglect to do so and take such freedom for granted.  How much greater judgment will those incur who, having free access and exposure to Scripture, refuse to obey its commands?

       Mr. Henry has preserved a good conscience so far in respect of the Sabbath, that he said, he always refused to work at his trade for the Indians on that day, and repeatedly giving them the reason, was so far successful that few applications are made on that day for work—the Indians now knowing when it comes.  He told me they were not a little troublesome at first on this account, but by utterly refusing and giving them the reason why he would not work, they were reconciled.  From this instance, am persuaded, if the traders were unanimously to refuse trading on the Lord's day, the heathens thereby might be brought into better regulations; but what is to be lamented, some of the traders are not concerned about conscience in this matter, and it never can be well accomplished except they are unanimously agreed.  When I came first to this town, two of our canoe-men lay under the hands of an old squaa [squaw], having had their feet badly frozen in travelling from Siota.  'Tis likely they came with loads of rum by night, for if this article is seen, 'tis common for the Indians to rob them without apology.  One of the men indeed had his feet very badly frozen.  Having applied to me, let them know that what medicines were in my possession, were not adapted to the complaint, must have recourse to the productions of that soil; therefore prescribed the following poultice, which in a short time absolutely performed the cure in a surprising manner, quickly separating the  mortified  flesh.  As it is cheap, and may be depended upon in similar cases, shall communicate it for the benefit of such as are pleased to use it.  

       Take the fresh bark of sassafras roots, pound it in a mortar very fine: then boil it a little in water, mixing it up into the consistency of a poultice with Indian corn meal.  Apply it once in twelve hours as warm as it can be endured.  Its operation is attended with a sensation almost equal to burning, but this abates as soon as the mortified flesh is separated.

       Hats off to Moses Henry!  In spite of the Indians’ animosity towards any expression of Christian worship, Henry refused to be pressured into violating the Lord’s Day by working.  One wonders if the other traders had unanimously followed his example, how much greater would the impression made on the Shawnee have been.  I also think it is remarkable that a preacher like Jones would be a quasi-doctor as well.  Where he picked up this natural home remedy he doesn’t say but it is obvious that it wasn’t known to the Shawnee at that village.  The next time I suffer severe frost bite, and I have some sassafras roots nearby, I’ll know what to do!

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)      David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 41-2. 
2)      Ibid., p. 42-4.

David Jones Visits Chillicothe

       When we last left David Jones he was visiting the Shawnee Indians in the town of Piqua.  Let’s pick up his story there.

       Wednesday  13 [January 1773], Mr. Irwine invited the king and some of his friends to take breakfast with me, having previously informed him that I was no trader, but was a good man, whose employment among white people was to speak of  God  and heavenly matters, and came with that view to see my brothers the Indians.  None of this nation ever saw a minister, except a chance one at some fort; so that they have little prepossessions only what are natural.  When the king met me, it was with all appearance of friendship, and respectfully gave me the right-hand of fellowship, with some kind of obeisance.  His friends that came with him he ordered to do the same.  When breakfast was ready, which consisted of fat buffalo, beavers tails and chocolate—in a solemn manner, acknowledged the goodness of  God,  desiring Mr. Irwine to acquaint him with the design of my proceeding, and he said the king approved well of it.  In our conference at breakfast, he desired to know my business among them, seeing that I was no trader—told him that I could not give a full answer, being a stranger to their language, and not yet having got a good interpreter to speak for me, but expected one, and then he should fully know my business.  At present told him only a few things, because Mr. Irwine could not interpret only in common affairs, not having long traded in this nation.—Kishshinottisthee is indeed a man of good sense, and by all that appeared was my hearty friend.  He was desirous that I should instruct them into the knowledge of God, but he was only one, and there were many against me, especially at Chillicaathee [Chillicothe].  During my present stay, visited the king in his own dwelling, and was always received kindly, treating me with hickory nuts, which is part of their food, being much superior to any of that kind in our eastern world.  He is neither distinguished in apparel or house, that being one of the least in town, being about fourteen feet by twelve.  He may be said to possess some degree of hospitality—being much indisposed one day, the king's wife came with what was thought might suit a weak stomach as a present to me; the dish consisted of pumkins [sic] which had been dried, but were now boiled, and with it some bears oil to eat with the pumkin.  As it was a demonstration of benevolence, tho' my appetite was poor, yet I eat a little.  About, this time it snowed near six inches deep, and for some days it felt near as cold as winter in Philadelphia, though it is thought to be about two degrees south, so that cold weather in common is not long.  Before removal from this town captain [Alexander] Mc Kee, in company with major Smallman arrived.  Mr. Mc Kee is now agent for this department of Indians, and as his influence might be great, acquainted him with my design.  He appeared to be pleased, promising to do what was in his power to make my journey prosperous.  The Indians having told me, that my old interpreter David Owens was down Ohio below the falls towards the Waabash [sic] river, therefore inquired of Mr. Mc Kee for an interpreter—he recommended one whose name is Caesar, who was a foreigner, and, as he said, understood something about religion, and therefore would be best for an interpreter on that subject—but was so unhappy as never to see him.  We parted expecting to see each other at Chillicaathee.  It was with reluctance this town was left, before an opportunity was obtained to instruct the Indians; but being destitute of an interpreter, concluded to move to the chief town. ¹

       The first thing that really struck me as interesting about this part of Jones’ narrative was his description of his meals.  Buffalo, beaver tail, and chocolate doesn’t sound like the “breakfast of champions” to me but it must’ve been well-liked by the Indians.  I also find it interesting that the Indians were drinking chocolate when Joseph Doddridge had referred to it as “slop” and implied that only “people of quality” would drink it (see my earlier blog post “Joseph Doddridge on Backcountry Foodways”).  Boiled pumpkin with bear oil sounds interesting too, but I’d give it a try!  I also found it intriguing how many famous characters Jones happened to run into during his travels.  We have already seen him cross paths with the famous frontiersman George Rogers Clark and with the famous traders John Baynton and George Morgan.  Now we see him meeting the trader Alexander McKee.  McKee, an associate of George Croghan, had a Shawnee wife and lived with that tribe while trading amongst the tribes north of the Ohio River.  In just a few years, with the outbreak of the War for Independence, McKee will be viewed with great suspicion by the Americans as being too closely aligned with British interests in the region.  McKee will eventually cast in his lot with the British and even take part in Indian raids against the western settlements.  But for now he seems to be genuinely interested in helping Jones in his missionary work. 

       Friday 22, in company with Mr. Irwine, set out for Chillicaathee, and arrived there in the afternoon. Here Mr. Irwine kept an assortment of goods, and for that purpose rented an house from an Indian whose name is Waappee Monneeto in English, often called the White Devil, but the word Monneeto is not of any certain signification.  Went to see Mr. Moses Henry a gunsmith and trader from Lancaster. This gentleman has lived for some years in this town, and is lawfully married to a white woman, who was captivated so young that she speaks the language as well as any lndian.  She is a daughter of major Collins, formerly an inhabitant of the south branch of Potomack, but now lives near the Little Canhawa on Ohio.  Mr. Henry lives in a comfortable manner, having plenty of good beef, pork, milk, &c.  His generosity to me was singular, and equal to my highest wishes.  Soon after my arrival, dieted altogether with Mr. Henry; but slept on my blankets at Mr. Irwine's.  By living on such victuals as formerly used, soon recovered my health, in a comfortable degree.  Chillicaathee is the chief town of the Shawannee Indians—it is situated north of a large plain adjacent to a branch of Paint Creek.  This plain is their corn-field, which supplies great part of their town.  Their houses are made of logs, nor is there any more regularity observed in this particular than in their morals, for any man erects his house as fancy directs. North of this town are to be seen the remains of an old fortification, the area of which may be fifteen acres.  It lies near four square, and appears to have had gates at each corner, and in the middle likewise. From the west middle gate, went a circular entrenchment including about ten acres, which seems designed to defend on all quarters.  This circle included a spring.  Mr. Irwine told that another exactly in this form is to be seen on the river Siota, the banks of which remain so high as to, intercept sight of men on horseback.  'Tis evident to all travellers [sic] that this country has been inhabited formerly by a martial race of mankind enjoying the use of iron, for such entrenchments, as appear in various places, could not have been made otherwise: but of this part of antiquity we shall remain ignorant. ²

       Isn’t it odd that, as Jones describes it, the ancient fortifications here seem to show more intentional design than the dwellings of the contemporary Shawnee?  Could this be yet another example of the “devolution” described in Romans 1, where advanced cultures who refuse to worship God eventually suffer cultural degradation?  His description of the dwellings being built “as fancy directs” also reminds me of the Book of Judges where “every man did that which was right in his own eyes.”  So many parallels here to the end result of Christ-less lives.  What will be the result of Jones’ visit to Chillicothe?  Lord-willing we’ll pick up the story in our next post.

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)      David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 39-40.

2)      Ibid., p. 40-1.

David Jones Visits Piqua

       When we left off our story of David Jones’ travels through the Ohio country, he had just rejoined his party after having been lost in the wilderness.  We pick up his story there.

       Saturday 9 [January 1773], Mr. William Butlar [Butler], by an accident having got part of his goods wet, was so retarded in his voyage, that we overtook him, though he set out several days before us.  In company with his canoes, we passed a place where some rude Indians were, who had behaved insolently to Mr. Butlar. Our canoe-men, understanding the disposition of Indians, for their safety, made themselves near half drunk, and as they passed the Indians made such a horrid bustle, that the Indians were afraid to molest us, as they said afterwards.

       I THOUGHT at first this was only an excuse for excess, but was afterwards convinced that Indians are extremely afraid of any person intoxicated; for they look on such as mad, and among themselves in such a condition are always for killing.  Encamped this night near the crossings of this river, and slept safely, though not without fear. ¹

     When I read this account, I immediately thought of another David many years before who, in attempting to flee King Saul, feigned madness so they he could dwell safely amongst the Philistines (I Sam. 21:10-15).  The idea in pagan cultures was that those who exhibit clear manifestations of insanity are controlled by powerful spirits.  The ruse worked here for Jones’ compatriots as well.

      [Sunday] 10 Being the Lord's day, but as none is kept here, moved up as far as a place called Kufkinkis.  It is common here to disload some part of the canoes, and from hence carry the goods on horses to the towns.  The land here is level and good, and it is said that the place takes its name from an old Indian of the same name, who used to winter here.  This river comes much nearer to some of the towns, but as it is very crooked, it makes the distance so great, it is judged expedient to disload part here.  Near us were encamped some Indians, which were going to Pickaweeke [Piqua] an Indian town near to Deer Creek.

       Monday 11, Mr. Butlar and Mr. Nailar concluded from hence to take part of their goods by land, on horses brought from the towns for that purpose.  Being very desirous of leaving the canoe, as the season was now cold, requested Mr. Butlar and Mr. Kelly to intercede for me to obtain a horse from the Indian that was going to Pickaweeke.

       I HAVE reason to esteem these gentlemen for their assistance on this occasion, for with fair speeches and good treatment, a horse was granted to me; but it is probable a large reward was viewed by the Indian, for they are very mercenary.

       Set out about 11 o'clock, and came that night to Paint Creek, which is esteemed about fourteen miles; the last part of the road is near due north.  The Indian name of this creek is Alamoneetheepeeca, the English of which is Paint Creek. This creek takes its name from some kind of paint that is found in or about it. It comes from the west, and empties into Siota [Scioto], near where we encamped.  The water is clear and beautiful, demonstrating that it originates from good springs. On some branches of this creek are situated some chief towns of the Shawannees, to be described hereafter.

       Tuesday 12, having taken breakfast with Mr. Butlar and Mr. Nailar, set out for Pickaweeke in company with my Indian friend, whose name is Cutteway, his wife and some others.  It may be well thought that my journey was solitary, for three words of the Shawannee language were not known by me, and as little English by my fellow-traveller [sic]; so that we could converse none by the way.  The day being cold induced us to ride fast, so that about two o'clock we came to the town.  About one mile from the town my Indian friend cast off, and hid part of his load, and leaving the women behind, made signs for me to ride on with him.  Perhaps the reason of his conduct was, lest we should be molested by drunken Indians; for when they are intoxicated, their abuses are not confined to white people, but they will even rob Indians. Drawing near the town, many thoughts arose about the event, for to me it was not known that there was one white man in town; but all anxiety was removed by seeing Mr. Joseph Nicholas, a former acquaintance when at Fort Pitt.  With kindness he received and entertained me with such refreshments as the situation afforded.  While we were refreshing ourselves Mr. John Irwine came in, and invited me home with him.  Mr. Irwine's chief habitation is in a small town, situated W. N. W. of Pickaweeke about three miles.  By the English it is called Blue Jackets Town, an Indian of that name re-siding there.  Before this is described, it is proper to take notice of Pickaweeke—it is situated south of a brook that, east of the town, empties into Deer Creek.  It takes its name from a nation of Indians called Picks, some of them being the first fettlers—the word signifies "the place of the Picks."  Now it consists of about one hundred souls, being a mixture of Shawannees and other nations, so that it is called a Shawannee town.  It is the most remarkable town for robbers and villains, yet it pretends to have its chief men, who are indeed very scoundrels guilty of theft and robbery without any apology or redress. Some of these took four or five mares from Mr. McMechen on Ohio, nor was there any prospect of redress.  Leaving this, went with Mr. Irwine to his habitation.  This town is situated east of Deer Creek, and north of a large plain.  This creek is clear and beautiful, appearing useful for mills and healthful for the inhabitants.  The buildings here are logs, their number about twelve.  This is a peaceable town, and in it lives Kishshinottisthee, who is called a king, and is one of the head men of this nation. The English of his name is Hardman. ²

       In our next post, Lord willing, we will see what happens to Jones as he visits the Shawnee.

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)      David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 35.

2)      Ibid., p. 35-8.

Winter Travel on the Ohio River

       In my last blog post of the story of David Jones’ travels through the Ohio country he was just lamenting the passing of his friend, the Rev. John Davis.  That’s where we pick up the story now.

       No scene of life past at that time more affected me than the death of Mr. Davis; but since that, met with something that touched my soul more to the life, as will appear at the close of this journal. At this time my health was greatly impaired, and now having lost my good friend, had thoughts of returning home.  While ruminating on this subject, a canoe came along bound for the Shawannee towns. It partly belonged to Mr. John Irwine, an Indian trader, with whom I was acquainted. It was 60 feet in length, and at least 3 feet in breadth; fitted out with six hands and deeply loaden [sic]. The name of the chief hand is James Kelly, who offered to take me along.  Resolved to go, supposing that travelling by water might be a means of restoring health; hoping also that I might meet with my interpreter.

       December 27 [1772], in the morning parted with my brother and other friends, committing the event to Providence; set out in my voyage to the Shawannee towns. The weather was snowy and severe, yet being lapped up in blankets received no damage.  At night encamped on the west side of Ohio, and by the assistance of a large fire, slept more comfortably than could be imagined, by those who are strangers to such lodging.

       Monday 28, the wind blowing from the S. made the river so rough, that most part of the day it was impossible to travel.  It is said by the traders, that the wind almost universally blows up Ohio, especially in winter, nor do I remember it otherwise: if this continues to be the case, it must be of great advantage to trade on this river. Perhaps it would puzzle the greatest philosopher to assign a natural cause for the wind's blowing up this stream in the winter; but it is plain Providence has so ordered it.  At evening Mr. Kelly concluded, that as the wind abated, it was duty to continue at the oars all night: therefore we set out, and it was thought by morning we were about eight miles below the little Canhawa.  This night was severely cold—the canoe was loaded near eighteen inches above its sides; on this was my lodging. Though well furnished with blankets, was afraid my feet would have been frozen.  It may be well supposed that thoughts of sleep in such apparent danger were not the most pleasing; for moving a few inches in sleep, would have made the bottom of Ohio to be my bed.  Many thoughts arose in my mind what might be the event: at last believing that God had a command of my thoughts in sleep, and could keep me from dreaming or starting in my sleep, committed all into his hand, and slept without fear.  In the morning found myself safely preserved, through the care of him whose tender mercies are over all the works of his hands. ¹

       I can almost imagine myself on that canoe, piled high with supplies, lying on the top, covered in blankets.  Having done some cold weather camping myself, I can attest to the fact that the feet are the hardest part of the body to keep warm.  Keep your feet warm and the task of keeping the rest of your body warm becomes much easier.  Added to the difficulty of staying warm is the necessity of staying still.  Like Jones I would be worried about tossing and turning right off the edge of that canoe and right into the river!  How little do we really trust in our great God to watch over us?

       Tuesday 5 [January, 1773], the water being deep, the men rowed the canoe about six or seven miles, and were obliged to encamp—I went myself on land and killed some turkies for provisions.

       Wednesday  6, moved slowly—spent some time in getting poles for the canoe—the wood used is called paupaw, it is very light, and bears a kind of fruit in shape resembling a cucumber, but too luscious  for some stomachs.  This night our lodging was bad, occasioned by rain.

       Thursday 7, as the canoe was poled up the stream, for the advantage of killing game, chose to walk on land; but mistaking the way that the river turned, lost myself on the largest walnut bottom that ever I met with before.  After some time, found myself mistaken—what added to my surprise, night approached, and the sun did not shine.  After ruminating on my case, and recollecting the courses I came, concluded that I knew which way the west lay; therefore set off and run over several bad places, till at last the top of a very high hill appeared.  Exhilarated with the view, with not a little speed to this my course was bent; but before it was ascended far, had the pleasing prospect of the river, yet was at a loss to determine whether the canoe was below or above me.  Went first up the stream, some times whistling, and at other times hollowing till discouraged—then returned down the stream for some miles, till I was satisfied that they were above me—thence returning up again, expecting, little else than to be left in this solitary wilderness, with no provisions, and little amunition [sic] to kill any: but while musing thus, heard them fire at their camp for me.  Returned the report, firing as I went; but as the wind blew towards me, they heard me not, though happily their guns were always heard. With as much speed as the darkness of the night would permit, being directed by their continual firing, at last arrived safe at the camp, and was received joyfully; for their distress seemed greater than mine, lest some evil had befallen me, and they should bear the blame. This day passed a large creek on the west side of Siota, and several small ones on the east side.  ²

       I can’t say that I’ve ever been truly lost in the woods.  Jones’ predicament would have been far worse than most anything we would face today.  Yes, he had a gun and some powder and some ammunition but he carried with him no extra provisions.  This is the winter, after all, and Jones would have been all alone in a land that presented him with a hostile environment if not hostile native tribes.  One shouldn’t mistake Jones for a mere “city slicker.”  He seemed to be able to handle himself pretty well in the wilderness, but his real deliverance came from God.  Even so, in our own lives we often fool ourselves into thinking that our own arm brings us deliverance.  Father, forgive us!

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)      David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 27-8.

2)      Ibid., p. 33-4.

An Untimely Passing

       In our last post we left David Jones speaking with some Indians at Ft. Pitt in the summer of 1772.  We’ll pick up his story there.

       July 28, parting with all friends at Fort Pitt; set out for the Jerseys; passed through the settlement of Monongehela, preaching in various places; came to my own house in the latter end of August; found all well, through the kind providence of God, who doth always preserve us through all the dangers of life.

       Health was so much impaired by the great fatigue of this journey, that it was with reluctance a second was undertook; but fearing the bad consequences of disappointing the Indians, was resolved to proceed on all events. Left my house and family on the 26^th of October all well, but alas! all of them I never saw more. My parting at this time went so to my heart, that it seemed as if this journey should finish my days on earth. It was like death itself, but for my word's sake would go: but had it been known how little in reality the Indians cared for my visit, might have contented myself at home.

       For the conveniency [sic] of carrying provisions, and as a defence against storms, went this time in a covered wagon [sic], in company with a person desirous to see the new country, with a view of settling there. Our carriage rendered our journey less expeditious, and in the event proved considerable loss to me; for the axletree broke in the Allegini [sic] mountain, going down to the Great Crossings—parted with it on such disadvantageous terms, that about five pounds loss was sustained. Met with discouragements also while in Philadelphia, for there some money was expected to pay my interpreter, but none could be had, only one gentleman, as I parted with him, put three or four dollars in my hand. Some were so good as to trust me a small sum in such goods as were necessary for my journey.—It filled me with some astonishment to see professed christians so unconcerned about the conversion of the heathens! When the Son of Man cometh, shall he find faith on earth!

       Messieurs [John] Baynton and [George] Morgan were kind enough to furnish me with some necessaries for my journey, and it is hoped that it will not incur displeasure to give credit for their generosity. We travelled so slow, and could make so little way over the Allegini [sic] mountain, that we arrived not to Redstone till November 17.

      How hard it must be for all missionaries, who leave home and family not knowing whether or not they will see them again in this life.  Certainly the faithful minister of the Gospel will go forth trusting in the all-benevolent God whom he serves, but what discouragements must he overcome in his work?  Even Jones admits here that the Indians he was laboring and suffering to serve seemed to be generally indifferent to his work.  Added to that is the further frustration of the lack of support for the work from fellow Christians back home.  Praise God for Christian businessmen! Baynton and Morgan were from the firm of Baynton, Wharton & Morgan which was based in Philadelphia and was actively engaged in the trans-Appalachian trade amongst the various native tribes and others.  Whatever their motivations for supporting Jones may have been, at least they were willing to spend some money in promoting his work.  Are we supporting the work of foreign or domestic missions in our day?

        A few days before me the Revd. John Davis came here [Redstone], intending to go with me to Ohio.    It surprised me to see him so much impaired in his health.  Conversed, and found him resolved to go with me, at least as far as Ohio.  Endeavoured to dissuade him from his purpose, fearing the event, (which in time came to pass) but could not prevail; therefore consented, intending submission to the will of God.   When we came to the house of my interpreter, found that some time before our arrival he had, in company with some Delaware Indians, gone far down Ohio; he left word that I might find him about the Shawannee towns, or some where along Ohio.  This was very discouraging, as I knew of none so well qualified as himself to answer my purpose.  Excited with hopes of finding him, in company with Mr. Davis and some more, set out for the river Ohio; but by high waters, and bad stormy weather, our journey was so retarded that we arrived not to Ohio till Dec. 2.  When we came to the house of Dr. James McMechen, formerly neighbour to Mr. Davis, he seemed to forget his complaints, and his heart was exhilarated upon feeing his old acquaintance, and the river Ohio, after such a tedious journey. But alas! dear man, his time was short, for on the  13^th day of said month, he departed  this life, and left me his remains to commit to the earth. My distress was not small on this occasion, for materials to make a coffin, and a spade to dig the grave.  Was relieved by hearing that in a cabin at some distance there were some sawed boards, and a spade could be had in going about eight miles.  Having got the materials, and assisted by a man a little used to tools, made him a coffin.  Happily I had carried some nails with me, so that he was buried with some decency.  During the time of his illness, he was very submissive to the will of God; and was so far from the fear of death, that he was often heard to say, "Oh! that the fatal blow was struck!"  He had a complication of disorders, and all medicines used either by Dr. McMechen or myself seemed to have none effect.  When he drew near his last, he was very delirious, and could give few rational answers, tho' he still knew me, and would always have me by him, till all senses failed.  To compose him a little, gave him a strong anodyne, which had so much effect, that for about fifteen minutes he enjoyed the use of his reason.  In this time he told me, that he firmly believed the locality of heaven—that in a little time he expected to be with Christ, and see and know him as he is now known and as he is not known.  He said his faith in his Saviour was unshaken.  Then he made as humble addresses to God, as ever I heard drop from mortal lips.  Soon after his delirium returned, and never remitted more.  On the 13^th of December 1772, being the Lord's day, about an hour and an half before the sun set, this great man took his final departure from this world of sorrows.  Alas! what devastations and destruction has sin brought upon the human race! that the wise, the reverend head must return to dust! and can we who are alive, love so merciless an enemy! forbid it Lord!—Mr. Davis, it is well known, was a great scholar, possessed of a good judgment, and very retentive memory. He had truly a great soul, and despised any thing that was little or mercenary.  In our journey he told me one reason why he left Boston was, because he abhorred a dependent life and popularity: that if God continued him, he intended to settle in this new country, where he could preach the gospel of his Saviour freely. His address, in all his religious, performances was easy, sweet and pleasing: his private conversation both informing and engaging; though at times he was a little reserved, yet it was only when not suited. And what exceeds all, I believe he was a humble disciple of our blessed Saviour. In this point, was more confirmed by conversing with him in our journey, than what I had been in any part of former acquaintance.

       Being conscious that poetry is not my gift, yet as the following verses are expressive of Mr. Davis's faith, thought it not amiss to insert them here, as an epitaph to that worthy man, viz.

How learn'd, how fam'd, now avails me not!

By whom admir'd, or by whom begot!

Ohio's bank my body now confines

In safe repose, till Christ in triumph shines;

But when the last trump's alarming sound

Shall shake the foundations of the ground:

And Christ in full glory shall descend.

The rights of pure justice to defend:

Then in bright honour shall this body rise.

To meet my dearest Lord up in the skies.

       The remains of this worthy man are interred near a brook, at the north end of the level land adjacent to Grave Creek: about sixteen feet N. of his grave stands a large blackoak tree; on this the name of Mr. Davis, the date of the year, and day of the month, are cut with my tommehock [tomahawk]. This is the present monument; but Dr. McMechen intended a tomb for him. He was the first white man buried in this part of the country, but not long after a child was laid by him. Here a Baptist meeting-house is designed, as the most central place in this part of the country. ²

       What trials David Jones passed through at this time!  He was separated from home, suffering privations in the wilderness and now even bereft of the company of a fellow Christian.  Imagine not only having to bury a friend but having to travel some distance just to obtain the tools necessary for doing the job!  Through all this Jones’ faith remains strong.  Lord, may the same be said for us; may we also be found faithful in spite of our various trials.

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)      David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 21-3.

2)      Ibid., p. 23-6.

David Jones Preaches The Gospel

In our last post, we saw David Jones preaching amongst the natives in the Ohio River country.  Today we will pick up the story with a look at Jones’ exposition of the gospel to those who had never heard it before.

Tuesday  July 14 [1772], in company with messrs. [George Rogers] Clark, Higgins and my interpreter [David Owens], set out for Fort Pitt; and as it was sometime before the Indians would be at Fort Pitt, took another tour through the desarts [deserts] to Ohio. Preached on the Lord's day in a cabbin near to a creek called Weeling [Wheeling], to about 15 auditors. In the afternoon having sent word, a few Indians met me, one of which was Frank Stephens.  Having all set down on deerskins presented to us for that purpose by the Indians, addressed them on these subjects, viz.  I. The state in which God created man. 2. His fall. 3. The promise of a Saviour; his coming and sufferings. 4. The work of God in renewing our souls to qualify us for heaven, and enabling us to believe on the Saviour. "On this occasion was very sensible of the great difficulties of speaking on such important subjects to these poor heathens, who were strangers even to the historical accounts thereof.   After due deliberation spoke to this effect, viz. "You see, my brothers, that man is now very bad; he does many bad things; he has a wicked and bad heart: but when God made him at first he was all good, all love. Then he loved God, and loved one another, God said to him, if you will only obey me, you shall always live in a happy state; but if you disobey, you shall surely die, and be miserable. But afterwards man thought, may be, he might be happy and not die, even if he disobeyed God.  Then he did that which God told him he should not do. But oh! immediately he lost all his good, and became very bad, having no love to God,  nor to one another. In this state God looked on him and said, ah! you have disobeyed, and would not believe me: you must now die, and you deserve to suffer for-ever: yet I have compassion on you, though you do not deserve it, and will send you a Redeemer. After a long time the Redeemer came, and so great was his love for us, that he himself in our stead endured all the punishment due to our transgressions, in order to make peace between God and us. Now God saith that all that believe on this Saviour shall be happy for-ever. And to prepare us for that happiness, God by his great power changes the temper of the hearts of all that believe: then they love God and one another.  God takes delight in them, and when they die he takes them up into heaven to be forever with himself."—Some white people besides my own company were present: it was observable, that some of them were more affected than when they had been more immediately addressed. By what appeared expectations were raised; but these Indians had no further opportunities, being in time of the second visit down Ohio with my interpreter.

Monday July 20, set out for Fort Pitt; had a small path called Catfish's Road, which led us through the country between Ohio and Monongehela; had the pleasure of seeing a large extent of good land, but few inhabitants; it is somewhat uneven, but most part habitable.— Came to Fort Pitt on Wednesday July 22; remained about six days; had an opportunity of conversing with several principal Indians of different nations: they all spoke very agreeably, and seemed pleased with my intentions of instructing them. It is possible that these men were honest; but am now so well acquainted with Indian deceit as to know, that when they are among us, to pretend to love what will best recommend them, is their common practice. Being informed that it was some time before any further intelligence could be had respecting my visit: therefore wrote another letter to the Delaware king and chiefs of the nation, informing them, that I had been long from home; could stay no longer at present; but they might expect me out again in the fall. This was interpreted to one of the chiefs, and with it a belt of wampum delivered with a speech. Was informed all were delivered carefully but saw not the person in my second visit. ¹

Lord willing we will take up Jones’ story again in our next post.

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)   David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 19-21.

David Jones Visits The Ohio Country

In some previous posts we looked at the missionary activity of David McClure, the Congregationalist minister, amongst the Indians in the years just before the American War for Independence.  I have recently been reading the journal of another faithful Gospel minister, the New Jersey Baptist preacher David Jones, relating his travels to the western country during the same time period.  Jones left Ft. Pitt in June of 1772, in the company of George Rogers Clark and others, traveling by canoe through the Ohio country in order to visit the various tribes.  Here is one incident he relates in his journal.

Saturday June 13 [1772], moved to a creek by the Indians called Caapteenin, i.e. Captains Creek [Captina Creek].  This creek comes into the river from the west side, and is supposed to be about 75 miles E. S. E. from Newcomer's town, which is the chief town of the Delaware Indians.  We encamped opposite to Caapteenin on the east side of Ohio.  Here were some families of Indians—we went over and conversed with them, and in the evening some of them returned the visit.  Mr. Owens [the interpreter] was well acquainted with some of them, and let them know what sort of a man I was.  They all shewed respect to me; even when some of them afterwards were drunk, they were civil to me, and would take me by the hand and say, " You be minsta.”  Here we spent the Lord's day: in the evening instructed what Indians came over.  The most intelligent auditor is called Frank Stephens.  He could speak no English, but in this point, was at no loss when Mr. Owens was with me.  In this interview, spoke on many subjects, and asked several questions, among others, whether he believed that after death there is a state of eternal happiness and of misery? he replied, this he believed—he proceeded and said, "he considered  God as the Giver of all good things; if he killed a deer he thought God  gave him that good luck."  What he said on this subject raised my expectation, for we know that man is more prone to forget the providence of God, than his existence.  While many things were said concerning God, he gave great attention.  At this, time I felt myself much distressed how to speak so as to make him sensible of the way and manner that we received the scriptures from God.  At last these ideas arose in my mind, which were communicated in words to this effect, viz. “Long ago, oh! very long ago : sometimes at one time, and sometimes at another time, God had good men on the earth ; and by his great power,  God did so confine the imagination of these good men, that at that time they could think nothing but what God would have them think.  And while they were thus under this great power of God, they wrote the scriptures, which tell us all things that we should believe concerning God, and all things that we should do to please him. This was the same as if God had spoken himself."—This I must say, though I have firmly for many years past believed that the holy scriptures were given by inspiration of God, yet never had before a deeper sensation of their exalted dignity.  What a mercy is it that we are thus directed of God! how awful must the case of such be, who either despise or neglect instructions from heaven itself!—What was said on this subject much affected Frank, who replied, "that he believed long ago Indians knew how to worship God,  but as they had no writings they had lost all knowledge of him: yet sometimes some of them tried to worship him, but knew not whether their services were pleasing to him or not;" and indeed this must have been the case with all, had not God been pleased to reveal his will to us; for no man hath seen him; but says the Evangelist, "the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him."  This brought to mind, what formerly had been quoted in conversation from a certain author, viz. "a philosopher was demanded by an emperor to give an answer to two questions; the first was, whether there is a God? having proper time given to ruminate on the subject, returned an answer in the affirmative: the second was, how to worship God acceptably? after due deliberation answered, that this never could be known, except  God  is pleased to reveal it himself."  Seeing that this is the case, from hence it appears, how exact we should be in all our religious obedience to God; and never deviate from the directions given us in the holy scriptures: for all additions, though under the specious name of decency and order, must be an abomination in the sight of God.

       By this time we were surrounded by the evening shades, and repose demanded an end to the present interview—informed Frank, that it was the custom of good white folks to pray to God, before they went to sleep—that we were now going to pray, and would pray for him—and tho’ he understood not what was said, yet may be God would give him good thoughts while I was speaking.  With this we all rose up to pray; the Indians rose likewise, being previously informed by the interpreter.  With a solemn heart and voice addresses were made to God. —Was informed that during the time the Indians looked very seriously at me.  When prayer was ended, Frank told my interpreter, that my voice affected his heart; that he thought I spoke the same way that our Saviour did when he was on earth.  It is likely that this Indian had heard of our Saviour from the Moravians or their Indians.  It was said by Mr. Owens, that it was common among the Delawares, to mention the name of our Saviour: but the case is otherwise among the Shawannees.  An answer was expected here by the ambassador sent to the chief town of the Delaware Indians; but a trader having brought rum, all prospects of doing good by any longer continuance, were at an end; and the ambassador delaying his return, concluded to go down to the Little Canhawa, to view the land.  This was near 70 miles below, and from Grave Creek to the Little Canhawa,  the river Ohio may be said to run S.W. but it is very crooked, turning to many points of compass. ¹

How God was pleased to bless the efforts of this faithful minister we shall see later, Lord willing, in some future posts.

Christ, not man, is King!

Dale

1)   David Jones, A Journal of Two Visits Made to Some Nations of Indians on the West Side of the River Ohio in the Years 1772 and 1773 (Burlington, NJ: Isaac Collins, 1774), p. 14-17.