"To the Editor—Boston Herald:"In 1832 Henry Rowe Schoolcraft led an expedition through the wilds of Northern Minnesota and discovered what he believed to be the source of the Mississippi. Being at a loss for an appropriate name to bestow upon the lake which constituted this supposed source, so the story goes, he asked a companion what were the Latin words signifying 'true head,' and received in reply 'veritas caput.' This was rather a ponderous name to give a comparatively small body of water, even though the Father of Waters here took his first start in the world. The explorer, therefore, conceived the idea of uniting the last two syllables of the first word with the first syllable of the second, thus, by a novel mode of orthography, forming a name which might easily pass for one of Indian origin—Itasca. A person versed in orthographical science would probably perceive at once that the name did not belong to the same family of harsh Indian appellations which have affixed themselves permanently to many towns and rivers in Wisconsin and Minnesota, but was more allied to the softer language of southern Indian nations. But it has now been discovered that Lake Itasca is notveritas caput; andLake Glazier, discovered in July, 1881, by Captain Willard Glazier, must be regarded by all future generations as the true head of the Mississippi."The Mississippi, on its first stages, flows in a northerly direction, the whole system of small lakes which contribute to it being surrounded on the north and west by an amphitheatre of hills.Lake Glazierlies above and beyond Lake Itasca, and its waters have an elevation of probably seven feet above that lake, being connected therewith by a small, swift stream. Lake Itasca is composed of three arms, extending in the form of a trefoil, having a length of five miles and an average width of about one mile. The upper, or southern end of its middle arm apparently terminates in a swamp, which might easily have deceived any one not familiar with the country. But Chenowagesic, Captain Glazier's Indian guide, who had for years used the region of these lakes for his hunting-ground, readily made his way through the reeds and rushes at the mouth of the connecting stream.Lake Glazierat its outlet presents another barricade of reeds, through which the party made their way in their canoes."Lake Glazieris about two miles in length by a mile and a half in breadth. Its shores, instead of being low and marshy, as are those of many of the neighboring lakes, present finely wooded slopes and surround the lake in what would have been the shape of a perfect oval, had not a bold, rocky promontory indented its southern end, and given to it the outline of a heart. On the point of this promontory is a spring from which flows ice-cold water. The waters of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, proceeding from springs, some of them in the bottom of the lake itself, and the others at a greater or less distance from its shores."Lake Glazierhas three small feeders, one of them named Eagle Creek, entering it near its outlet, and taking its rise a mile or so farther south, in a small pond or lakelet, upon which Captain Glazier bestowed the name of 'Alice,' after his daughter. Eagle Creek runs nearly parallel with the western shore of the lake, a little distance from it. Two streams, two or three miles in length, flow northward intoLake Glazierat its southern extremity on eitherside of the indenting promontory. Excelsior Creek, so named because it represents the very highest water of the Mississippi, is the longer of these. Deer Creek, to the eastward, and rising a little nearer the lake, has been so named for the reason that numbers of deer were seen in its vicinity."Lake Glazieris thus supplied by three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior and Deer Creeks, now named in the order of their importance, and as uniting these waters in one common reservoir, this lake is undoubtedly entitled to be regarded as theveritas caput—the true head of the Mississippi."Pearce Giles."Boston, August 6, 1886."
"To the Editor—Boston Herald:
"In 1832 Henry Rowe Schoolcraft led an expedition through the wilds of Northern Minnesota and discovered what he believed to be the source of the Mississippi. Being at a loss for an appropriate name to bestow upon the lake which constituted this supposed source, so the story goes, he asked a companion what were the Latin words signifying 'true head,' and received in reply 'veritas caput.' This was rather a ponderous name to give a comparatively small body of water, even though the Father of Waters here took his first start in the world. The explorer, therefore, conceived the idea of uniting the last two syllables of the first word with the first syllable of the second, thus, by a novel mode of orthography, forming a name which might easily pass for one of Indian origin—Itasca. A person versed in orthographical science would probably perceive at once that the name did not belong to the same family of harsh Indian appellations which have affixed themselves permanently to many towns and rivers in Wisconsin and Minnesota, but was more allied to the softer language of southern Indian nations. But it has now been discovered that Lake Itasca is notveritas caput; andLake Glazier, discovered in July, 1881, by Captain Willard Glazier, must be regarded by all future generations as the true head of the Mississippi.
"The Mississippi, on its first stages, flows in a northerly direction, the whole system of small lakes which contribute to it being surrounded on the north and west by an amphitheatre of hills.Lake Glazierlies above and beyond Lake Itasca, and its waters have an elevation of probably seven feet above that lake, being connected therewith by a small, swift stream. Lake Itasca is composed of three arms, extending in the form of a trefoil, having a length of five miles and an average width of about one mile. The upper, or southern end of its middle arm apparently terminates in a swamp, which might easily have deceived any one not familiar with the country. But Chenowagesic, Captain Glazier's Indian guide, who had for years used the region of these lakes for his hunting-ground, readily made his way through the reeds and rushes at the mouth of the connecting stream.Lake Glazierat its outlet presents another barricade of reeds, through which the party made their way in their canoes.
"Lake Glazieris about two miles in length by a mile and a half in breadth. Its shores, instead of being low and marshy, as are those of many of the neighboring lakes, present finely wooded slopes and surround the lake in what would have been the shape of a perfect oval, had not a bold, rocky promontory indented its southern end, and given to it the outline of a heart. On the point of this promontory is a spring from which flows ice-cold water. The waters of the lake are exceedingly clear and pure, proceeding from springs, some of them in the bottom of the lake itself, and the others at a greater or less distance from its shores.
"Lake Glazierhas three small feeders, one of them named Eagle Creek, entering it near its outlet, and taking its rise a mile or so farther south, in a small pond or lakelet, upon which Captain Glazier bestowed the name of 'Alice,' after his daughter. Eagle Creek runs nearly parallel with the western shore of the lake, a little distance from it. Two streams, two or three miles in length, flow northward intoLake Glazierat its southern extremity on eitherside of the indenting promontory. Excelsior Creek, so named because it represents the very highest water of the Mississippi, is the longer of these. Deer Creek, to the eastward, and rising a little nearer the lake, has been so named for the reason that numbers of deer were seen in its vicinity.
"Lake Glazieris thus supplied by three feeders, Eagle, Excelsior and Deer Creeks, now named in the order of their importance, and as uniting these waters in one common reservoir, this lake is undoubtedly entitled to be regarded as theveritas caput—the true head of the Mississippi.
"Pearce Giles.
"Boston, August 6, 1886."
We insert here an interesting letter from Paul Beaulieu, Interpreter to the United States Indian Agency, White Earth, Minnesota. Mr. Beaulieu is a very intelligent half-breed, about sixty years of age, and has lived nearly all his life in the neighborhood of the headwaters of the Mississippi. His testimony, therefore, upon a subject with which he must necessarily be familiar, will have due weight with the inquiring reader:
"U. S. Indian Service,"White Earth Agency, Minnesota,"May 25, 1884."Dear Sir:—I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the sixteenth instant. In reply, I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for a score of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca, which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this country, was never by them considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I have received a map showing the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier in 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change a feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide, Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean byus, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) thatLake Glazieris located at the right place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi."With respect, yours truly,"Paul Beaulieu,"U. S. Indian Interpreter."
"U. S. Indian Service,
"White Earth Agency, Minnesota,
"May 25, 1884.
"Dear Sir:—I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the sixteenth instant. In reply, I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for a score of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca, which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this country, was never by them considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I have received a map showing the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier in 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change a feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide, Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean byus, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) thatLake Glazieris located at the right place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi.
"With respect, yours truly,
"Paul Beaulieu,
"U. S. Indian Interpreter."
An eastern correspondent addressed the following communication to the Saint PaulDispatch, in which he claimsthat the discovery of the true source of the Mississippi should be credited to Captain Glazier:
"To the Editor—Saint Paul Dispatch:"Having been a resident of Minnesota in 1855, I wish to say a word about Captain Glazier and his discovery. Minnesota, at the time of my residence there, was thinly settled. Minneapolis and Saint Anthony were both straggling villages. Saint Paul could boast of something like 10,000 population. The nearest railroad point to the latter city was one hundred and thirty miles distant. In winter Burbank's Northwestern Express carried the mails and the very few passengers that could muster courage to make the toilsome journey; and well do I remember my trip over this route. I know that, at that time, there was a question with the Sioux, Chippewas and many pioneers as to Lake Itasca being the source of the Great River. There was a settled opinion that something would be found beyond that would eventually prove to be the source of that stream. I believe Captain Glazier to have been actuated by a desire to establish the truth of this problem. Interested parties may seek to withhold from him his rightful due as a discoverer, but notwithstanding these attempts, in some schools in this region,Lake Glazieris taught as the true source of the Mississippi. To attempt to discredit one who took front rank for the preservation of the Union, and who suffered in many rebel prisons, is altogether unworthy of the parties who are making themselves conspicuous in the matter."J. C. Crane."West Millbury, Massachusetts, January, 1887."
"To the Editor—Saint Paul Dispatch:
"Having been a resident of Minnesota in 1855, I wish to say a word about Captain Glazier and his discovery. Minnesota, at the time of my residence there, was thinly settled. Minneapolis and Saint Anthony were both straggling villages. Saint Paul could boast of something like 10,000 population. The nearest railroad point to the latter city was one hundred and thirty miles distant. In winter Burbank's Northwestern Express carried the mails and the very few passengers that could muster courage to make the toilsome journey; and well do I remember my trip over this route. I know that, at that time, there was a question with the Sioux, Chippewas and many pioneers as to Lake Itasca being the source of the Great River. There was a settled opinion that something would be found beyond that would eventually prove to be the source of that stream. I believe Captain Glazier to have been actuated by a desire to establish the truth of this problem. Interested parties may seek to withhold from him his rightful due as a discoverer, but notwithstanding these attempts, in some schools in this region,Lake Glazieris taught as the true source of the Mississippi. To attempt to discredit one who took front rank for the preservation of the Union, and who suffered in many rebel prisons, is altogether unworthy of the parties who are making themselves conspicuous in the matter.
"J. C. Crane.
"West Millbury, Massachusetts, January, 1887."
Letter from Mr. John Lovell, geographer and historian, and one of the leading educational publishers of the Dominion of Canada:
"Captain Willard Glazier:"Dear Sir:—I owe you an apology for not having earlier acknowledged your courtesy in sending me a copy of your remarkably interesting work 'Down the Great River.' Owing to illness and a variety of calls on my time, I had not an opportunity ere this of finishing the reading of it. I have no hesitation in saying that it is most interesting and instructive, especially where you so ably summarize the results of former expeditions, and where you describe in animated language the aim, course, and outcome of your own explorations. You have had an experience which has fallen to the lot of few travellers, and, in certifying the source of the Father of Waters, have rendered a great service to the cause of geographical discovery. The account of your voyage from the newly discovered Source to the Gulf of Mexico gave me much pleasure and information. The patience and endurance of the brave fellows who were with you, considering the distance, in canoes, is worthy of praise. Your own able management of the expedition is worthy of all commendation and of substantial and immediate thanks from the good men of your own wonderful country."Again I sincerely thank you for your handsome and most acceptable present."With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir,"Yours faithfully,"John Lovell."Montreal, October 17, 1887."
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I owe you an apology for not having earlier acknowledged your courtesy in sending me a copy of your remarkably interesting work 'Down the Great River.' Owing to illness and a variety of calls on my time, I had not an opportunity ere this of finishing the reading of it. I have no hesitation in saying that it is most interesting and instructive, especially where you so ably summarize the results of former expeditions, and where you describe in animated language the aim, course, and outcome of your own explorations. You have had an experience which has fallen to the lot of few travellers, and, in certifying the source of the Father of Waters, have rendered a great service to the cause of geographical discovery. The account of your voyage from the newly discovered Source to the Gulf of Mexico gave me much pleasure and information. The patience and endurance of the brave fellows who were with you, considering the distance, in canoes, is worthy of praise. Your own able management of the expedition is worthy of all commendation and of substantial and immediate thanks from the good men of your own wonderful country.
"Again I sincerely thank you for your handsome and most acceptable present.
"With sincere respect, I remain, dear sir,
"Yours faithfully,
"John Lovell.
"Montreal, October 17, 1887."
The following letter will speak for itself. Mr. Gus. H. Beaulieu, of White Earth, Minnesota, Deputy United States Marshal for the district, is an educated half-breed, and cousin of Paul Beaulieu. His home is on the Chippewa Indian Reservation, within sixty miles of the source of the Mississippi. In this letter he presents the Indian theory as to the comparative volume of water in the two lakes—Glazierand Itasca:
"Captain Willard Glazier:"Dear Sir:—I have been somewhat interested in your discussion regarding the source of the Mississippi. Even had you never proclaimed to the world your discoveries, from information received by me from Indians and old mixed-blood Indian voyageurs, there would have always been a doubt existing with me as to whether Itasca was the head of the Mississippi."Henry Beaulieu, a brother of Paul Beaulieu, always maintained thatLake Glazierwas the true source of the Mississippi. I remember that, after his return from Itasca with Mr. Chambers of the New YorkHerald, I think in 1872, he said that Winnibegoshish or Cass Lake might as well be called the source of the Mississippi as Itasca. Other mixed-blood have repeatedly stated the same thing. I mention this to show you what the general opinion is among Indians and those of mixed blood."Chenowagesic's theory concerning the head of the Mississippi is this: That while Itasca presents a larger surface thanLake Glazier, it does not contain as much water as the latter. He arrives at this conclusion from the fact that Itasca freezes over two or three weeks beforeLake Glazier. This, he says, is a sure sign that the latter lake is the deeper of the two, and contains more water. His arguments in favor ofLake Glazierare rather novel, and, as a matter of course, are taken from an Indian's standpoint."Yours truly,"Gus. H. Beaulieu."White Earth, Minnesota, December 17, 1887."
"Captain Willard Glazier:
"Dear Sir:—I have been somewhat interested in your discussion regarding the source of the Mississippi. Even had you never proclaimed to the world your discoveries, from information received by me from Indians and old mixed-blood Indian voyageurs, there would have always been a doubt existing with me as to whether Itasca was the head of the Mississippi.
"Henry Beaulieu, a brother of Paul Beaulieu, always maintained thatLake Glazierwas the true source of the Mississippi. I remember that, after his return from Itasca with Mr. Chambers of the New YorkHerald, I think in 1872, he said that Winnibegoshish or Cass Lake might as well be called the source of the Mississippi as Itasca. Other mixed-blood have repeatedly stated the same thing. I mention this to show you what the general opinion is among Indians and those of mixed blood.
"Chenowagesic's theory concerning the head of the Mississippi is this: That while Itasca presents a larger surface thanLake Glazier, it does not contain as much water as the latter. He arrives at this conclusion from the fact that Itasca freezes over two or three weeks beforeLake Glazier. This, he says, is a sure sign that the latter lake is the deeper of the two, and contains more water. His arguments in favor ofLake Glazierare rather novel, and, as a matter of course, are taken from an Indian's standpoint.
"Yours truly,
"Gus. H. Beaulieu.
"White Earth, Minnesota, December 17, 1887."
The evidence here presented in support ofLake Glazier, is, in our judgment, most conclusive; we may add, overwhelming. Many of the most prominent citizens of the State in which the Great River takes its rise volunteer their endorsement of a claim, of the merits of which, they must necessarily be better informed than persons living at a remote distance from the head of the river. State authorities, including the Governor and his staff; senators and representatives, many of whom have resided from twenty to forty years in Minnesota; pioneers, clergymen, and school-teachers, with many of the leading citizens; editors, school-superintendents, professional men, and others, strongly affirm that Lake Itasca is not the source of the Mississippi, but that the lake to the south of it, definitely located by Captain Glazier, is the primal reservoir ortrue sourceof the Father of Waters. These witnesses, moreover, unequivocally assert that the credit of the discovery should be awarded to the man who made it, notwithstanding the groundless opposition of a few cavillers who have never themselves visited within many hundred miles a region they affect to be so marvelously familiar with.
From His Excellency, A. R. McGill, Governor of Minnesota:"Captain Glazier's claim to be the discoverer of the true source of the Mississippi seems reasonable, to say the least. I have been a resident of Minnesota twenty-six years, and never until Captain Glazier's expedition, heard the claim of Itasca being the source of the Great River seriously questioned."
"Captain Glazier's claim to be the discoverer of the true source of the Mississippi seems reasonable, to say the least. I have been a resident of Minnesota twenty-six years, and never until Captain Glazier's expedition, heard the claim of Itasca being the source of the Great River seriously questioned."
From Hon. Horace Austin, Ex-Governor:"I think that it would be a very proper thing to do under the circumstances that Captain Glazier's services should be recognized by the passage of a bill by the Legislature giving his name to the lake which is the real source of the Mississippi."
"I think that it would be a very proper thing to do under the circumstances that Captain Glazier's services should be recognized by the passage of a bill by the Legislature giving his name to the lake which is the real source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. W. H. Gale, Ex-Lieutenant-Governor, Winona"I have been a resident of Minnesota for more than twenty-eight years, and I believe it was the generally accepted opinion of the people of this State that Lake Itasca was the source of the MississippiRiver, until after the expedition of Captain Willard Glazier, and his publication to the world that another lake south of Lake Itasca was the true source, to which lake has been given the name ofLake Glazier. This is now generally recognized as thetrue sourceand head of the Mississippi, and Captain Glazier as the man who first made known that fact to the world."
"I have been a resident of Minnesota for more than twenty-eight years, and I believe it was the generally accepted opinion of the people of this State that Lake Itasca was the source of the MississippiRiver, until after the expedition of Captain Willard Glazier, and his publication to the world that another lake south of Lake Itasca was the true source, to which lake has been given the name ofLake Glazier. This is now generally recognized as thetrue sourceand head of the Mississippi, and Captain Glazier as the man who first made known that fact to the world."
From F. W. Seeley, Adjutant-General"I desire to say, in justice to Captain Glazier, that, having been a resident of Minnesota for twenty-five years, and quite familiar with the geography of the State, it is my belief that he was the first to discover the true source of the Mississippi River and publish it to the world."
"I desire to say, in justice to Captain Glazier, that, having been a resident of Minnesota for twenty-five years, and quite familiar with the geography of the State, it is my belief that he was the first to discover the true source of the Mississippi River and publish it to the world."
From Moses E. Clapp, Attorney-General:"From such information as I have on the subject, I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published accounts of the explorations of Captain Willard Glazier."
"From such information as I have on the subject, I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published accounts of the explorations of Captain Willard Glazier."
From H. W. Childs, Assistant Attorney-General:"There is, in my opinion, no reason or ground for disputing Captain Glazier's claim to have located the body of water now undoubtedly regarded as the source of the Mississippi River, and appropriately namedLake Glazier."
"There is, in my opinion, no reason or ground for disputing Captain Glazier's claim to have located the body of water now undoubtedly regarded as the source of the Mississippi River, and appropriately namedLake Glazier."
From J. K. Moore, Private Secretary to Governor McGill:"From the evidence, it seems clear to me that the actual source of the Mississippi River had never been recognized until Captain Glazier made its discovery in 1881."
"From the evidence, it seems clear to me that the actual source of the Mississippi River had never been recognized until Captain Glazier made its discovery in 1881."
From Gus. H. Beaulieu, Deputy U. S. Marshal, District of Minnesota:"Having been born and raised in the State of Minnesota, and a resident of White Earth Indian Reservation, and being familiar with the Indian traditions, I certify that Itasca Lake had never been considered the source of the Mississippi by the best informed Chippewa Indians. Although I had never seen any published maps to the contrary, prior to the expedition of Captain Glazier in 1881, from the best information I have among the Indians, I now regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River. I regard his chief guide, Chenowagesic, as the best authority among the Indians regarding the section of country about the headwaters of the Mississippi, and consider him thoroughly reliable."
"Having been born and raised in the State of Minnesota, and a resident of White Earth Indian Reservation, and being familiar with the Indian traditions, I certify that Itasca Lake had never been considered the source of the Mississippi by the best informed Chippewa Indians. Although I had never seen any published maps to the contrary, prior to the expedition of Captain Glazier in 1881, from the best information I have among the Indians, I now regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River. I regard his chief guide, Chenowagesic, as the best authority among the Indians regarding the section of country about the headwaters of the Mississippi, and consider him thoroughly reliable."
From Ed. W. S. Tingle, St. Paul Globe:"After a study of the literature of the subject, I am convinced that the lake to which the name ofGlazierwas given by the Glazier exploring expedition is undoubtedly the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier was the first to call general public attention to the fact."
"After a study of the literature of the subject, I am convinced that the lake to which the name ofGlazierwas given by the Glazier exploring expedition is undoubtedly the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier was the first to call general public attention to the fact."
From Rev. W. T. Chase, Pastor First Baptist Church, Minneapolis:"There seems no reasonable doubt that the actual source of the Mississippi had never been recognized until Captain Willard Glazier made its discovery in 1881. Captain Glazier merits the gratitude of every citizen of the United States who is interested in knowing all that is knowable about the great Father of Waters."
"There seems no reasonable doubt that the actual source of the Mississippi had never been recognized until Captain Willard Glazier made its discovery in 1881. Captain Glazier merits the gratitude of every citizen of the United States who is interested in knowing all that is knowable about the great Father of Waters."
From Ex-Mayor Pillsbury, Minneapolis:"From the best information I have been able to obtain, I am satisfied that Captain Willard Glazier was the first person that discovered the true source of the Mississippi."
"From the best information I have been able to obtain, I am satisfied that Captain Willard Glazier was the first person that discovered the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. J. L. Pitner, Pastor Methodist Episcopal Church, Minneapolis:"From the evidence I have examined, I am convinced that the real source of the Mississippi was not known prior to 1881. I am quite sure the claims ofLake Glazierare not ill-founded, and that in its deep, cool bosom the Great River takes its rise."
"From the evidence I have examined, I am convinced that the real source of the Mississippi was not known prior to 1881. I am quite sure the claims ofLake Glazierare not ill-founded, and that in its deep, cool bosom the Great River takes its rise."
From John E. Bradley, Superintendent Public Schools, Minneapolis:"From such examination as I have been able to give to the problem of thetrue sourceof the Mississippi, it seems to be satisfactorily established thatLake Glazieris to be so regarded."
"From such examination as I have been able to give to the problem of thetrue sourceof the Mississippi, it seems to be satisfactorily established thatLake Glazieris to be so regarded."
From Hon. Samuel E. Adams, Member of the Minnesota Historical Society, Monticello:"I have no doubt of the correctness of Captain Glazier's statement that he discovered the new source of the Mississippi now bearing his name."
"I have no doubt of the correctness of Captain Glazier's statement that he discovered the new source of the Mississippi now bearing his name."
From John H. Elliott, Secretary Y. M. C. A., Minneapolis:"I have no hesitation in stating that I believeLake Glazierto be the real source of the Mississippi River, and that Captain Glazier's claims are entitled to respectful and grateful recognition."
"I have no hesitation in stating that I believeLake Glazierto be the real source of the Mississippi River, and that Captain Glazier's claims are entitled to respectful and grateful recognition."
From J. S. McLain, Evening Journal, Minneapolis:"I have no reason to question the claim of Captain Glazier to have been the first to correctly map the section of country about the source of the Mississippi, or that the body of water which bears his name is the true source of the Great River."
"I have no reason to question the claim of Captain Glazier to have been the first to correctly map the section of country about the source of the Mississippi, or that the body of water which bears his name is the true source of the Great River."
From Albert Shaw, Minneapolis Tribune:"Unquestionably Captain Glazier may claim the credit of having called public attention to the fact that there is a lake beyond Lake Itasca which is more strictly to be considered as the source of the Mississippi. That the lake will always be calledLake Glazier, and that it will henceforth be spoken of everywhere as the source of the Great River, I have no doubt; nor do I doubt the propriety of the name."
"Unquestionably Captain Glazier may claim the credit of having called public attention to the fact that there is a lake beyond Lake Itasca which is more strictly to be considered as the source of the Mississippi. That the lake will always be calledLake Glazier, and that it will henceforth be spoken of everywhere as the source of the Great River, I have no doubt; nor do I doubt the propriety of the name."
From Judge John P. Rea, Commander-in-Chief G.A.R., Minneapolis:"I have resided in Minnesota eleven years, and always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard the fact questioned until within the past four or five years. From all the evidence I have upon the subject, I am satisfied thatLake Glazieris the true source."
"I have resided in Minnesota eleven years, and always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard the fact questioned until within the past four or five years. From all the evidence I have upon the subject, I am satisfied thatLake Glazieris the true source."
From G. M. Wing, Secretary North-West Indian Commission, Minneapolis:"Concerning the real source of the Mississippi, I would say that the lake which Captain Willard Glazier has located, and which he claims to be the source, is no doubt more properly the true source of this Great River than Lake Itasca. There is no doubt whatever in my mind but that Captain Glazier was the first person to discover that fact, and make the same known to the world; and that fact alone, though it might have been visited before, should entitle him to the honor of naming the same. I have been over the route traversed by Captain Glazier and party, and find that the map which he has published is a correct delineation of that section."
"Concerning the real source of the Mississippi, I would say that the lake which Captain Willard Glazier has located, and which he claims to be the source, is no doubt more properly the true source of this Great River than Lake Itasca. There is no doubt whatever in my mind but that Captain Glazier was the first person to discover that fact, and make the same known to the world; and that fact alone, though it might have been visited before, should entitle him to the honor of naming the same. I have been over the route traversed by Captain Glazier and party, and find that the map which he has published is a correct delineation of that section."
From Hon. J. G. Lawrence, Ex-Senator, Wabasha:"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of having discovered the true source of the Mississippi in a lake above Lake Itasca, and now namedLake Glazier."
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of having discovered the true source of the Mississippi in a lake above Lake Itasca, and now namedLake Glazier."
From Judge L. A. Evans, Ex-Mayor, Saint Cloud"First Mayor of Saint Cloud, and have served six terms as such. Have resided in Saint Cloud for thirty years. I believe thatLake Glazieris the true source of the Mississippi River, and this is the opinion of the majority of the people residing in this part of the State."
"First Mayor of Saint Cloud, and have served six terms as such. Have resided in Saint Cloud for thirty years. I believe thatLake Glazieris the true source of the Mississippi River, and this is the opinion of the majority of the people residing in this part of the State."
From Will E. Haskell, President and Managing Editor, Minneapolis Tribune:"There can be no longer any doubt, when the question is carefully considered, that the credit of discovering the true source of the Mississippi belongs to Captain Willard Glazier. Captain Glazier's discovery has now become an accepted geographical fact, and future generations of school-boys will speak knowingly ofLake Glazier, as we did in our youth of Itasca."
"There can be no longer any doubt, when the question is carefully considered, that the credit of discovering the true source of the Mississippi belongs to Captain Willard Glazier. Captain Glazier's discovery has now become an accepted geographical fact, and future generations of school-boys will speak knowingly ofLake Glazier, as we did in our youth of Itasca."
From J. O. Simmons, Little Falls."Have been a resident of Little Falls for the past twenty-nine years; County Attorney and justice of the peace for several years; would state that I am personally acquainted with the half-breed Indian interpreter, Paul Beaulieu. Have known him since June, 1857, and know him to be a person of intelligence, great experience, and personal knowledge of the northern portion of Minnesota, which up to very recently has been a vast wilderness occupied only by the Chippewas. Have often conversed with him relative to the country northof us, and speaking of the Mississippi, have heard him say that Lake Itasca was not the fountain head; that there was a stream emptying its waters into Itasca from a lake a short distance above the latter, and which, in his opinion, was the true source. Since Captain Glazier's exploration, I accept the lake bearing his name as the true source of the Mississippi."
"Have been a resident of Little Falls for the past twenty-nine years; County Attorney and justice of the peace for several years; would state that I am personally acquainted with the half-breed Indian interpreter, Paul Beaulieu. Have known him since June, 1857, and know him to be a person of intelligence, great experience, and personal knowledge of the northern portion of Minnesota, which up to very recently has been a vast wilderness occupied only by the Chippewas. Have often conversed with him relative to the country northof us, and speaking of the Mississippi, have heard him say that Lake Itasca was not the fountain head; that there was a stream emptying its waters into Itasca from a lake a short distance above the latter, and which, in his opinion, was the true source. Since Captain Glazier's exploration, I accept the lake bearing his name as the true source of the Mississippi."
From Rev. Andrew D. Stowe, Rector, Trinity Church, Anoka:"This is to certify that from the testimony of Indians and Half-breeds living at White Earth Agency, Minnesota, during my residence there of two years, I am persuaded thatLake Glazier, instead of Itasca, is the real source of the Mississippi."
"This is to certify that from the testimony of Indians and Half-breeds living at White Earth Agency, Minnesota, during my residence there of two years, I am persuaded thatLake Glazier, instead of Itasca, is the real source of the Mississippi."
From D. Sinclair, Winona:"In the autumn of 1862 I spent several weeks in that portion of Northern Minnesota, extending from Crow Wing to Leech Lake, and the country about Red Lake, in company with Paul Beaulieu, the well-known Indian guide and interpreter. During a conversation as to the source of the Mississippi, Beaulieu informed me that Lake Itasca was not the real source of that river, but that a smaller lake, located a short distance south of Itasca, was entitled to that distinction. After investigating the matter recently, I have no doubt of the genuineness of Captain Glazier's claim to be the person who first publicly established the fact that the lake which now bears his name is the true source of the Mississippi River."
"In the autumn of 1862 I spent several weeks in that portion of Northern Minnesota, extending from Crow Wing to Leech Lake, and the country about Red Lake, in company with Paul Beaulieu, the well-known Indian guide and interpreter. During a conversation as to the source of the Mississippi, Beaulieu informed me that Lake Itasca was not the real source of that river, but that a smaller lake, located a short distance south of Itasca, was entitled to that distinction. After investigating the matter recently, I have no doubt of the genuineness of Captain Glazier's claim to be the person who first publicly established the fact that the lake which now bears his name is the true source of the Mississippi River."
From William A. Spencer, Clerk United States District Court, Saint Paul:"I have resided in Minnesota upwards of thirty years, and until recently have always thought that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi; but after an examination of the claim of Captain Glazier to be the discoverer of the true source, I am satisfied his claim is well founded."
"I have resided in Minnesota upwards of thirty years, and until recently have always thought that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi; but after an examination of the claim of Captain Glazier to be the discoverer of the true source, I am satisfied his claim is well founded."
From O. C. Chase, Chairman County Commissioners, Otter-Tail County:"From information received, I am fully satisfied that Captain Glazier was the first person to publicly announce the true source of the Mississippi."
"From information received, I am fully satisfied that Captain Glazier was the first person to publicly announce the true source of the Mississippi."
From John J. Ankeny, Postmaster, Minneapolis:"From the best information I can obtain, I am persuaded that the source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published accounts of exploration by Captain Willard Glazier in 1881. I think, therefore, he is entitled to the credit of the discovery."
"From the best information I can obtain, I am persuaded that the source of the Mississippi had not been recognized prior to the published accounts of exploration by Captain Willard Glazier in 1881. I think, therefore, he is entitled to the credit of the discovery."
From P. P. Swenson, Sheriff, Hennepin County:"After a residence of thirty-two years in the State of Minnesota, until recently I have always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River. I am now well informed of its true source beingLake Glazier, having personally traversed that section of the State."
"After a residence of thirty-two years in the State of Minnesota, until recently I have always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River. I am now well informed of its true source beingLake Glazier, having personally traversed that section of the State."
From Freeman E. Kreck, Postmaster, Aitkin:"I have been a resident of Aitkin County since 1881; have been County Auditor for past two years, and for a time proprietor and editor of theAitkin Age. Since Captain Glazier's explorations I do not hesitate to say that I believeLake Glazierto be the true primal reservoir of the Mississippi, and I think I voice the sentiment of the majority of the residents of this section."
"I have been a resident of Aitkin County since 1881; have been County Auditor for past two years, and for a time proprietor and editor of theAitkin Age. Since Captain Glazier's explorations I do not hesitate to say that I believeLake Glazierto be the true primal reservoir of the Mississippi, and I think I voice the sentiment of the majority of the residents of this section."
From A. Y. Merrill, County Attorney, Aitkin:"I believe that the lake claimed to have been located by Captain Glazier is the real source of the Mississippi River."
"I believe that the lake claimed to have been located by Captain Glazier is the real source of the Mississippi River."
From J. W. Wakefield, Aitkin:"Resident of Minnesota for thirty years. Personally acquainted with Chenowagesic. Indian trader more than fifteen years. Thoroughly familiar with the Chippewa language. I recognizeLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River."
"Resident of Minnesota for thirty years. Personally acquainted with Chenowagesic. Indian trader more than fifteen years. Thoroughly familiar with the Chippewa language. I recognizeLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River."
From Lyman P. White, Ex-Mayor, Brainerd:"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1870. Built the first house in Brainerd. Have had charge of the town site for the Lake Superior and Puget Sound Company for sixteen years. I met Captain Glazier on his Mississippi trip, and fully endorse his claim to have discovered the true source of the Mississippi."
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1870. Built the first house in Brainerd. Have had charge of the town site for the Lake Superior and Puget Sound Company for sixteen years. I met Captain Glazier on his Mississippi trip, and fully endorse his claim to have discovered the true source of the Mississippi."
From W. W. Hartley, Brainerd:"Have been a resident of Brainerd for the past fifteen years. Editor and publisher of theTribunefrom 1875 to 1881, and postmaster from 1879 to 1886. Met Captain Glazier and his party here in 1881, bothen routeto the source of the Mississippi River, and on their return voyage by canoes to its mouth. Have no recollection of ever having heard any other than Lake Itasca claimed to be the source of the Mississippi prior to the Captain's expedition.Lake Glazierhas since been accepted and is believed to be its source."
"Have been a resident of Brainerd for the past fifteen years. Editor and publisher of theTribunefrom 1875 to 1881, and postmaster from 1879 to 1886. Met Captain Glazier and his party here in 1881, bothen routeto the source of the Mississippi River, and on their return voyage by canoes to its mouth. Have no recollection of ever having heard any other than Lake Itasca claimed to be the source of the Mississippi prior to the Captain's expedition.Lake Glazierhas since been accepted and is believed to be its source."
From J. H. Koop, Postmaster, Brainerd:"Have been a resident of this State for sixteen years. Met Captain Glazier at the time he made his expedition of discovery to the source of the Mississippi, and I recognize the lake bearing his name as its true source."
"Have been a resident of this State for sixteen years. Met Captain Glazier at the time he made his expedition of discovery to the source of the Mississippi, and I recognize the lake bearing his name as its true source."
From N. H. Ingersoll, Editor, Brainerd Dispatch:"I fully endorse the statement that Captain Glazier was the first to proclaim to the world thetrue sourceof the Mississippi."
"I fully endorse the statement that Captain Glazier was the first to proclaim to the world thetrue sourceof the Mississippi."
From Rev. Fletcher J. Hawley, D. D., Rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Brainerd:"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1880, and have not heard any one question the truth of Captain Glazier's claim to have discovered the true source of the Mississippi to be inLake Glazier."
"I have been a resident of Brainerd since 1880, and have not heard any one question the truth of Captain Glazier's claim to have discovered the true source of the Mississippi to be inLake Glazier."
From John F. Peterson, Register of Deeds, Minneapolis:"I have resided in Minnesota for the past eighteen years, and fully believe thatLake Glazieris the true source of the Mississippi."
"I have resided in Minnesota for the past eighteen years, and fully believe thatLake Glazieris the true source of the Mississippi."
From C. P. De Laithe, Superintendent of Schools, Aitkin County:"I recognizeLake Glazieras the source of the Mississippi River. Have resided in Aitkin for several years."
"I recognizeLake Glazieras the source of the Mississippi River. Have resided in Aitkin for several years."
From J. H. Hallett, Brainerd:"I recognize the lake discovered by Captain Glazier as the real source of the Mississippi. Have been an Indian trader for the past fifteen years."
"I recognize the lake discovered by Captain Glazier as the real source of the Mississippi. Have been an Indian trader for the past fifteen years."
From Hon. N. Richardson, Little Falls, Judge of Probate of Morrison County:"I have resided on the banks of the Mississippi for thirty-one years. Met Captain Glazier at Little Falls with his exploring party, that visited the headwaters of this river in the summer of 1881. From information derived from sources that I consider reliable, I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River. Have been a member of the Minnesota Legislature for three terms."
"I have resided on the banks of the Mississippi for thirty-one years. Met Captain Glazier at Little Falls with his exploring party, that visited the headwaters of this river in the summer of 1881. From information derived from sources that I consider reliable, I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River. Have been a member of the Minnesota Legislature for three terms."
From O. L. Clyde, First Lieutenant, National Guard, Little Falls:"I have been a resident of Northern Minnesota for twenty years, and always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard any thing to the contrary until the year 1881, when Captain Glazier explored the Upper Mississippi, and made his report of the same. I now recognizeLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River."
"I have been a resident of Northern Minnesota for twenty years, and always supposed that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi. I never heard any thing to the contrary until the year 1881, when Captain Glazier explored the Upper Mississippi, and made his report of the same. I now recognizeLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River."
From Moses La Fond, Little Falls:"Lake Glazieris now considered the true source of the Mississippi. I am one of the old pioneers of this State, having resided in the northern section for over thirty-two years, and was a member of the Legislature in 1874."
"Lake Glazieris now considered the true source of the Mississippi. I am one of the old pioneers of this State, having resided in the northern section for over thirty-two years, and was a member of the Legislature in 1874."
From R. Cronk, of the Government Survey, Sauk Rapids:"This is to certify that I was compass-man on the survey of township 143 north, range 36 west of the 5th principal meridian, which embraces Itasca Lake, (the Indian name of which I understood to beOmushkosor Elk Lake,) and hereby affirm thatLake Glazieris the only well-defined body of water emptying into Lake Itasca, and in my opinion is the true source of the Mississippi."
"This is to certify that I was compass-man on the survey of township 143 north, range 36 west of the 5th principal meridian, which embraces Itasca Lake, (the Indian name of which I understood to beOmushkosor Elk Lake,) and hereby affirm thatLake Glazieris the only well-defined body of water emptying into Lake Itasca, and in my opinion is the true source of the Mississippi."
From Hon. T. G. Healey, Ex-State Senator, Monticello:"Have resided in Monticello since 1856. I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River, and it is now so regarded by the people living in this section of Minnesota."
"Have resided in Monticello since 1856. I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Mississippi River, and it is now so regarded by the people living in this section of Minnesota."
From William Tubbs, Postmaster and Ex-County Auditor, Monticello:"Have resided in Minnesota twenty-nine years.Lake Glazieris regarded by the people generally of this section as the true source of the Mississippi."
"Have resided in Minnesota twenty-nine years.Lake Glazieris regarded by the people generally of this section as the true source of the Mississippi."
From W. J. Brown, Principal of the High School, Monticello:"I considerLake Glazierto be the true source of the Mississippi, and know of no other. I teach the same in the public schools of this place, as also do my assistants."
"I considerLake Glazierto be the true source of the Mississippi, and know of no other. I teach the same in the public schools of this place, as also do my assistants."
From Commander A. H. Fitch, J. S. Cady Post, G. A. R., Department Minnesota; Anoka:"I am fully convinced that the body of water, known asLake Glaziersince 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and not Lake Itasca."
"I am fully convinced that the body of water, known asLake Glaziersince 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and not Lake Itasca."
From J. M. Tucker, M. D., Hastings:"I believe Captain Glazier's claim to being the discoverer of the real source of the Mississippi isjust, and have never heard it questioned. It must stand as one of the facts of history."
"I believe Captain Glazier's claim to being the discoverer of the real source of the Mississippi isjust, and have never heard it questioned. It must stand as one of the facts of history."
From Daniel O'Brien, Police Justice, Hastings:"I am satisfied that the lake to the south of Itasca, located by Glazier, in 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier is entitled to whatever credit there is in the discovery."
"I am satisfied that the lake to the south of Itasca, located by Glazier, in 1881, is the true source of the Mississippi, and that Captain Glazier is entitled to whatever credit there is in the discovery."
From J. R. Lambert, Ex-Mayor, Hastings:"It has been a generally accepted fact that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River, and like many others who have preceded me in giving testimonials in favor of Captain Willard Glazier's claim as the discoverer of a body of water now known quite generally asLake Glazier, and so represented in many of our standard geographical works, I cheerfully admit that Captain Glazier is entitled to credit as the discoverer."
"It has been a generally accepted fact that Lake Itasca was the source of the Mississippi River, and like many others who have preceded me in giving testimonials in favor of Captain Willard Glazier's claim as the discoverer of a body of water now known quite generally asLake Glazier, and so represented in many of our standard geographical works, I cheerfully admit that Captain Glazier is entitled to credit as the discoverer."
From S. Westerson, Chairman, Board of County Commissioners, Hastings:"It seems to be clearly proven that there is a lake—now calledLake Glazier—which is the true source of the Mississippi, discovered by Captain Willard Glazier in the year 1881, and that said Captain Glazier was the first man to make it public. The honor, therefore, in my estimation, is due to him."
"It seems to be clearly proven that there is a lake—now calledLake Glazier—which is the true source of the Mississippi, discovered by Captain Willard Glazier in the year 1881, and that said Captain Glazier was the first man to make it public. The honor, therefore, in my estimation, is due to him."
From B. B. Herbert, Editor, The Republican, Red Wing:"After a careful examination of the claim made for and against the reputed discovery of the head of the Mississippi, by Captain Willard Glazier, I am convinced that he was the first to question the received statement that Lake Itasca was its source; and first to connect the lake, which some respectable geographers have called by his name, with the Mississippi as its source. Having lived in Minnesota, on the banks of the Mississippi, for nearly thirty years, had any other person claimed to have discovered any other source than Lake Itasca, I should have been informed thereof."
"After a careful examination of the claim made for and against the reputed discovery of the head of the Mississippi, by Captain Willard Glazier, I am convinced that he was the first to question the received statement that Lake Itasca was its source; and first to connect the lake, which some respectable geographers have called by his name, with the Mississippi as its source. Having lived in Minnesota, on the banks of the Mississippi, for nearly thirty years, had any other person claimed to have discovered any other source than Lake Itasca, I should have been informed thereof."
From W. W. DeKay, Red Wing:"From such information as I have upon the subject, I regard the lake located by Captain Glazier, to the south of Itasca, as the true source of the Mississippi. I have resided in Minnesota for thirty-three years."
"From such information as I have upon the subject, I regard the lake located by Captain Glazier, to the south of Itasca, as the true source of the Mississippi. I have resided in Minnesota for thirty-three years."
From William Moore, Superintendent of Schools, Lake City:"Knowing the facts in regard to Captain Glazier's discovery of the true source of the Mississippi, as brought out by public discussion, I am convinced that he is justly entitled to be considered the discoverer of the source of the Mississippi River."
"Knowing the facts in regard to Captain Glazier's discovery of the true source of the Mississippi, as brought out by public discussion, I am convinced that he is justly entitled to be considered the discoverer of the source of the Mississippi River."
From George C. Stout, Mayor, Lake City:"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the honor of first discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River."
"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the honor of first discovery of the true source of the Mississippi River."
From D. O. Irwin, Postmaster, Lake City:"I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized before the published account of explorations by Captain Glazier; and I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River."
"I am convinced that the actual source of the Mississippi had not been recognized before the published account of explorations by Captain Glazier; and I regardLake Glazieras the true source of the Great River."
From H. L. Smith, Editor and Proprietor of the Graphic, Lake City:"I am fully convinced thatLake Glazieris the real source of the Father of Waters. Have resided in Minnesota seventeen years."
"I am fully convinced thatLake Glazieris the real source of the Father of Waters. Have resided in Minnesota seventeen years."
From F. J. Collins, Mayor of Wabasha:"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the credit of having discovered the true source of the Mississippi River. I have resided in Minnesota thirty-one years."
"I have no doubt that Captain Glazier is fully entitled to the credit of having discovered the true source of the Mississippi River. I have resided in Minnesota thirty-one years."
From Hon. James G. Lawrence, Ex-State Senator, Wabasha:"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of discovering the true source of the Mississippi, in a lake above Lake Itasca, now named after him,Lake Glazier."
"I believe Captain Glazier is certainly entitled to the credit of discovering the true source of the Mississippi, in a lake above Lake Itasca, now named after him,Lake Glazier."
From D. L. Dawley, Principal of Schools, Wabasha:"I believe Captain Glazier to be the real discoverer of the true source of the Mississippi River."
"I believe Captain Glazier to be the real discoverer of the true source of the Mississippi River."
From S. B. Sheardown, M. D., Winona:"I believe that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of discovering the real source of the Mississippi River. I have been a resident of Minnesota over thirty-one years."
"I believe that Captain Glazier is entitled to the credit of discovering the real source of the Mississippi River. I have been a resident of Minnesota over thirty-one years."
From Judge A. F. Storey, St. Vincent:"I have no hesitancy in saying that there can be no question, but, thatLake Glazieris the true and primal source of the Mississippi River."
"I have no hesitancy in saying that there can be no question, but, thatLake Glazieris the true and primal source of the Mississippi River."
From James A. Thompson, Postmaster, Leech Lake (the nearest post-office to the source of the Mississippi):"I am of opinion thatLake Glazieris the source of the Mississippi. I have talked on this subject with some of the Indians who accompanied Captain Glazier on his exploring expedition in 1881, and they all say it is the last lake; that they went all the way in their canoes, and could go no further. It is the general belief here that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source."
"I am of opinion thatLake Glazieris the source of the Mississippi. I have talked on this subject with some of the Indians who accompanied Captain Glazier on his exploring expedition in 1881, and they all say it is the last lake; that they went all the way in their canoes, and could go no further. It is the general belief here that LAKE GLAZIER is the true source."
From Paul Beaulieu, United States Interpreter, White Earth Indian Agency:"I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for scores of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca,which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this part of the country, was never by them considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I received a map showing the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier, 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change the feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot any longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide, Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean, byus, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) thatLake Glazieris located at the right place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi."
"I would respectfully state that according to the ideas of the people of this section of country, for scores of years past, in alluding to Lake Itasca,which is known only as Elk Lake by the original inhabitants of this part of the country, was never by them considered as the head or source of the Father of Running Waters, or May-see-see-be, as it is by them named. I received a map showing the route of exploration of Captain Willard Glazier, 1881, and being well acquainted with his chief guide, Chenowagesic, who has made the section of country explored by Captain Glazier his home for many years in the past, and who has proved the truth of his often repeated assertion, when maps were shown him, that a smaller lake above Lake Itasca would in time change the feature of those maps, and proclaim to the world that Lake Itasca cannot any longer maintain its claim as being the fountain head of Ke-chee-see-be, or Great River, which is called May-see-see-be, by the Chippewas. The map as delineated by Captain Glazier's guide, Chenowagesic, and published by the Glazier party, is correct; and it is plain to us who know the lay of this whole country (I mean, byus, the Chippewa tribe in particular, also the recent explorers for pine) thatLake Glazieris located at the right place, and is the last lake on the longest stream of the several rivers at the head of the great Mississippi."
The discovery and final location of the source of the Great River of the North American Continent by Captain Glazier has received general recognition in this country and in Europe, and our aim to place before the reader of this volume, material to assist him in forming his judgment on the validity of the author's claim, would not be attained if we omitted to include in theseaddendathe following evidence, the nature and weight of which we think should carry conviction to the mind of every impartial critic.
A report of the discovery was duly sent to Hon. Charles P. Daly, President of the American Geographical Society, New York, and by him forwarded to the Editor of theNew York Herald, and published by that paper, accompanied by a map of the region explored, showing the true source of the Mississippi.
A report was also sent to the Royal Geographical Society, London, England, and the following courteous reply received: