OSHKOSH COURIER

December 14, 1854

 

            FRIGHT WITH AN INDIAN – On Tuesday last, Mr. H.J. Whicher, of this village, was riding on horseback through a portion of Waupaca County, some distance from the village of New London, when he observed an Indian eyeing him closely.  Thinking nothing of the matter he rode slowly on his way.  When about four miles from New London, he came to a portion of the road which ran through a swamp, far from human habitation, and which was very narrow, when he espied an Indian lying on the ground, with is face from him.  The horse he rode (a pony owned by Reeder Smith,) stopped and refused to pass him. – Supposing the Indian drunk, Mr. W. got off, intending to haul him out of the road.  But before he could touch him, the Indian sprang for the horse – which was between the two – saying “Mine!” and got partly stride when Whicher seized him to pull him off.  The Indian drew a knife, struck at him, and though Whicher partially warded off the blow, it cut through an overcoat, coat, vest and three shirts, and inflicted a slight flesh wound in his side.  Before the Indian could strike again, Mr. Whicher had him on the ground choking him.  The Indian’s knife soon dropt from his hand, ere which Mr. W. had his own open.  He says he then tried to get off the Indian, but the fellow held his grasp firmly.  Whereupon Mr. W. dealt him ten or eleven stabs, until he let go when he ran for life, fearing that the Indian’s whoop, sounded in the commencement, might attract others.  He says the Indian did not stir when he left him!

            An armed party has since visited the spot, but found no Indian.  They report that the ground gave evidence of a desperate fight. – Probably other roving Menominees removed the body.

            For months past, the Indians have been very saucy to the settlers on the borders of their land.  They go into houses when the men are absent, and take what they want.   -  Appleton Crescent.