Webmaster's Note: This remarkable letter, probably written as part of a series of individual letters sent to the commanders of the various forts in the Michigan Territory, brought the first news of the "Battle of Bloody Lake." Captain Gehan likely transcribed much of Col. Henry Dodge's own words as he quickly wrote each communication, and handed them to express riders. Gehan addressed this particular communication to Captain John Sherman at Mound Fort, near the Blue Mounds.
The letter is presented substantially as written, with only modest correction for purposes of clarification.
Fort Union 17th June 1832Capt. Sherman
Sir--
The following facts stated in the letter eddrest [addressed] to Capt. Hord Move by Genl Dodge Doled [told] 16th Inst viz 1 Gent. the 5 men kiled at Spafford farm was Burried by our men Yesterday. This morning the Sacks Kild one of our men within one quarter of a mild of their fort we immediately perseude on the trail with 29 men in No was fortunate in overtaking & kild ten of them wich we considered composed the hole party. Our men charge them and rec’d there first fire Wells and Morris are mortally wounded Saml. Black is severely wounded but not mortal. Thomas Jenkins flesh wounded not mortal 21 of our men charged on the Indians on [illegible] the rest ware taking care of our horses and guarding the swamp in which we found them The men behaved with grate ---Grate Gallantry and bravery on this accasion they deserve the confidence of there countryRespectfully Yours in Hast[e]
Francis Gehan
Capt. Commanding
Capt. Sherman
Blue Mound
Source and credit: Wisconsin Historical Society collection.