CONTENTdm
British Columbia Historical Books Collection
Seal and salmon fisheries and general resources of Alaska. In four volumes
Jordon, David Starr, 1851-1931
Elliott, Henry Wood, 1846-1930
Maynard, Washburn, 1844-
Jackson, Sheldon, 1834-1909
Morris, William Gouverneur, -1884
Petroff, Ivan, 1842-
Townsend, Charles Haskins, 1859-1944
True, Frederick W. (Frederick William), 1858-1914
Brice, John J.
Stejneger, Leonhard, 1851-1943
United States. Department of the Treasury. Special Agents Division
"Contains correspondence between the State and Treasury departments on the Bering Sea question, 1895-6." -- Lowther, B. J., & Laing, M. (1968). A bibliography of British Columbia: Laying the foundations, 1849-1899. Victoria, BC: University of Victoria, p. 152.
v, 513 pages : tables, photographs (some folded), maps (folded)
application/pdf
SEAL AND SALMON FISHERIES AND GENERAL RESOURCES of ALASKA. IN FOUR VOLUMES. VOLUME I. WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1898. In the House of Representatives, March 2,1896. Resolved oy the Mouse of Representatives {the Senate concurring), That the Secretary of the Treasury he, and is herehy, authorized to print the reports, correspondence, charts, maps, and other documents, now on file in the Treasury Department, or other hranches of the Government, relating to the fur seal, salmon fisheries, and other matters pertaining to the Territory of Alaska; 3,000 copies to he printed, of which 750 shall he for the use of the Senate, 1,500 for the House of Representatives, and the remaining 750 copies for the use of the Treasury Department and other Departments whose reports are thus printed. Attest: A. McDowell, Clerk. In the Senate of the United States, March 11, 1896. Resolved,, That the Senate agree to the foregoing resolution of the House of Representatives. Attest: Wm. R. Cox, Secretary. II REPORTS ON CONDITION OF SEAL LIFE ON THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS BY Bf SPECIAL TREASURY AGENTS IN CHARGE, AND OTHERS, FROM 1868 TO 1895, BOTH INCLUSIVE, WITH COMMENTS THEREON, IN THE LIGHT OF SUBSEQUENT SCIENTIFIC INVESTIGATION. BY DAVID STARR JORDAN. 111 TABLE OF CONTENTS. Page. Prefatory note .*. 1 Protection of rookeries from marauders, hy Capt. W. A. Howard 3 Hah its of seals, hy Hiram Ketchum, jr., collector of Customs 4 Statistics of fur-seal trade for 1869, hy John T. McLean, Special Agent, Treasury Department 5 Affairs on seal islands in 1870, by Lieut. W. B. Barnes, R. C. S 13 Reports for years 1870-1877, hy Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department 15,21,23,35,39,46,50,61,72,86,90,98 Reports for years 1870 and 1871, hy S. N. Buynitzky, of the Treasury Department. 18, 31 Reports for'years 1871-1875, hy Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent... 22, 31, hi, 48, 49,53, 71,88 Affairs of natives, seal islands, hy H. W. Elliott, Special Agent, Treasury Department 51 Characteristics of fur seals, hy Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent 53 Management of affairs on St. George Island, hy William J. Mclntyre, Special Agent, Treasury Department 76,80 Criticism of Special Agent Bryant's reports 83 Reports for years 1877 and 1878, hy J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. 96, 98,110,113,131 Reports for years 1877 and 1878, hy J. M. Morton, Special Agent, Treasury Department 102,106,113 Reports for years 1879-1882, hy Harrison G. Otis, Special Agent, Treasury Department 114,116,125,127,128,132,141,152 Reports for years 1882-1884, hy Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent, Treasury Department 1 154,157,164,167 Report hy George Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent 162 Reports for years 1885-1888, hy George R. Tingle, Special Agent, Treasury Department 171,175,186,198,205,206 Report for year 1885, hy T. F. Ryan, Assistant Treasury Agent 183 Reports for years 1889 and 1890, hy Charles J. Goff, Special Agent, Treasury Department 214,228,230 Report for year 1889, hy A. P. Loud, Assistant Treasury Agent 225 Report for year 1889, hy J. P. Manchester, Assistant Treasury Agent »227 Reports for years 1890-1893, hy Joseph Murray, Assistant Treasury Agent 236, 292,359,364,423 Reports for years 1890-1893, hy A. W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent 239, • 297,363,428 Reports for years 18 0-1892, hy S. R. Nettleton, Assistant Treasury Agent.. 264, 311 Reports for years 1891 and 1892, hy W. H. Williams, Special Agent, Treasury Department | 271,300,304 Report for 1892, by J. Stanley-Brown, Special Agent, Treasury Department... 316 Statistics of seals taken for all purposes, 1870-1889. 364-407 Peport for 1893, by J. B. Crowley, Special Agent, Treasury Department 408 Report for 1893, by Lieut. D. J. Ainsworth, Acting Special Agent, Treasury Department 416 REPORTS FROM AGENTS, OFFICERS, AND OTHERS IN RELATION TO THE CONDITION OF SEAL LIFE ON THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS AND PELAGIC SEALING IN THE YEARS 1893-1895. Letter of the Acting Secretary of the Treasury transmitting reports to the Senate „' 447 Report on condition of the fur seals of the Pribilof Islands, by Charles S. Hamlin, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury 448 Reports for 1894 and 1895, by J. B.Crowley, Special Agent, Treasury Department 456,474 Appendix, by David Starr Jordan and George Archibald Clark 491 V PEEFATOEY 1STOTE. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, November 15, 1897. The documents contained in this volume, and the others which follow, extending over a period of twenty-seven years, contain some statements of opinion which in the light of more extended investigations are found to need correction or qualification. In view of this fact, Dr. David Starr Jordan, Commissioner in charge of Fur Seal Investigations, and Mr. George Archibald Clark, Secretary for the Fur Seal Commission, were requested to prepare an Appendix to each volume which shall contain desirable corrections. These appendixes appear at the end of the several volumes. L. J. Gage, Secretary. C Fb©&3 3 ANNUAL REPORTS TO THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT BY SPECIAL AGENTS IN CHARGE OF SEAL ISLANDS, AND OTHERS, ON THE CONDITION, ETC., OF THE SEAL ROOKERIES, PRIBILOF ISLANDS, FROM 1868 TO 1895, BOTH INCLUSIVE. 1868. Gapt. W. A. Howard: Protection of Rookeries from Marauders. Washington, D. C, April 16,1868. Sir : Depredations are being committed on the outer Aleutian, St. Paul, St. George, and St. Matthews islands, of Alaska, in the killing indiscriminately and out of season the sea otter and fur seals of those islands. A vessel has recently arrived at San Francisco with 10,000 skins on board. Indiscriminate slaughter (and the common use of firearms) out of season will annihilate in a very short period this timid and very valuable race of animals. It will be borne in mind these animals have been driven from the coast of California to this | ultima thule," and if driven farther north (which they must go) they will perish, as nature intended them for a milder climate than they at present inhabit. Since they have been domiciled in that region (Alaska) they have been protected by the natives and the Russian-American Fur Company, and have largely increased. None but the males of a certain age and in a certain condition have been slaughtered for their peltry or other purposes. One hundred and eighty thousand of the fur seal annually is sufficient for the market, and has never been exceeded. Sea otters are taken in limited numbers and only when in proper condition and in seasons when the young are capable of feeding and protecting themselves. Expeditions (well known) are being fitted out at San Francisco and Victoria, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I would most respectfully call the attention of the Department to the fact, considering the peculiar condition in which the country is at present held, and without laws for its guidance, are we not bound by a sense of honor and justice to protect (for the time being) from destruction the greatest interest of the country—the fur-bearing animals—until, at least, laws can be passed for their protection. Therefore, I respectfully request instructions may be sent to our revenue cruisers and officers to prohibit the taking or killing of any fur-bearing animals on the islands until the treaty stipulations have been complied with or laws and regulations enacted for the fur trade. I am, very respectfully, W. A. Howard, Captain on Special Service. Hon. Hugh McCulloch, Secretary of Treasury, Washington, D. G. 3 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Collector Ketchum: Habits of Seals, etc. San Francisco, Cal., October 26,1868. Sir: Since my arrival here I have had interviews with gentlemen representing the various rival interests connected with the fur-seal fishery in Alaska, and from their united testimony have obtained the following facts in relation to the sealing interest upon that coast: First. About the latter end of March or the early part of April in each year, the seals begin to move toward the uninhabited islands of St. Paul and St. George, in Bering Sea, the object being to accomplish the period of gestation, which is during the summer months. For this purpose they move like an army. At first a very few old male seals reconnoiter the coast, and if there are no alarming features they return and communicate with an advance guard of males, who upon their report make a more thorough reconnoissance of the coast, and their report being favorable, the main army, consisting of from 300,000 to 400,000 seal, advance and take possession of the tenantless coasts. Here they remain, bringing forth and nurturing their young until the first frost sets in (October or November), when they take their departure. Second. It appears to be universally conceded by those experienced in the business that loud noises, the appearance of blood, or the active signs of habitation deter the seal from settling upon the coast. For that reason the native hunters, both from motives of policy and in accordance with the regulations of the Russian Fur Company, have been in the habit of selecting the seal whom they designed to kill, driving him inland to the distance of a mile or over, and there dispatching him by a blow upon the head with a club. Great caution has to be exercised in driving him, because on account of his excessive fat and his fear combined he is apt to die in the transit, in which case the perspiration which he evolves loosens the fur and destroys the value of the skin. One well-directed blow, aimed at a point somewhere between the brain and the ridge of the snout, causes instantaneous death or insensibility, similar to the butcher's stroke between the horns of an ox. Third. Reckless hunting of the seal by inexperienced hands Will have the inevitable effect of driving him to other shores. It is even intimated that the Russian commissioner reserved Bering and Copper islands in the treaty of cession with the expectation that the improvidence of American adventurers would in a short time force the seal upon those coasts. Major-General Halleck informs me that a number of years ago the seal actually deserted the American islands and took refuge upon those reserved by Russia, and it was many years before they returned. From present information, it seems to me of vital importance that any legislation by Congress at its ensuing session should guard against the promiscuous killing of the seal, and it would be decidedly better if it were left altogether in the hands of native hunters. With great respect, I am, your obedient servant, Hiram Ketchum, Jr., Collector of Customs, District of AlasTca. Approved: Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Hon. Hugh McCulloch, Secretary of the Treasury. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Uxtract from a letter written by Hiram Ketchum, jr., to John Hogg, esq. # # There is a firm here named (I believe) Hutchinson & Co., represented by a couple of wealthy Jews, one a Mr. Schloss and the other a Mr. Wassermann, who have purchased the territorial claims, etc., of the Russian Fur Company, and have a nominal capital invested of, say, $300,000. • Mr. Schloss will probably leave here for Washington next week, where he will remain all winter endeavoring to procure legislation in favor of his interests. His right bower is Hon. William M. Stewart, Senator for Nevada. Interested in the company, which will eventually be an incorporation, are the Russian Prince Maksutoff, General Rousseau, Special Agent Dodge, etc. Their desire is to procure from the Government the exclusive privilege of killing the fur seal, subject to proper rules and regulations, and giving to the Government a tariff of, say, 50 cents per skin. Limiting the number of seals to be killed to 50,000 per annum, this would yield the Government a net revenue of $25,000. I have told them that such contracts are contrary to the spirit of our institutions, but they claim a precedent in the case of Mr. Martin Bates, who has the monopoly of the fur trade upon the Missouri River. They argue with great plausibility the Government must either farm the trade out to a monopoly or engage in it themselves. The fur seal commences to arrive at St. Paul and St. George, the main depots, about the month of March. At this time a few old males come to the islands upon a scouting expedition. They investigate and report to a reconnoitering body, who in turn report to the main body. At this time the natives remain closely concealed, kindling no fires and avoiding the slightest occasion for alarm. They do not kill over 50,000 in a year and these are taken from the males between 1 and 3 years old. The natives are Aleuts, semicivilized Indians, members of the Greek Church, living by the capture of the seal and otter, and requiring to be supported during the intervals when they are out of season. This firm allege that they are yielding that support to the natives now, and that it will become a duty incumbent upon the Government if they abandon it. # # # 1869. Special Agent McLean: Statistics, etc., of Fur Seal Trade. San Francisco, Cal., October 26,1869. Sir: In response to your letter of the 8th instant requesting me to procure and forward to the Department such reliable information as was to be obtained here in regard to the fur trade of Alaska, and more especially in relation to (1) the prices paid for fur seal and sea otter skins in Alaska since its cession to the United States, (2) the commercial classification of said skins and the prices paid for them by traders and manufacturers in this city, and (3) the invoice value of seal skins shipped from this port to London and other foreign ports, and the market value of sea otter skins and furs at the principal markets to which they are shipped, I have the honor to state that I have availed myself of the best sources of information within my reach on these various 6 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. points, sending copies of your letter to such importers, traders, manufacturers, and others as from their association with this trade and the Territory of Alaska were likely to have knowledge of any of the facts desired, and asking for such information as they possessed to be forwarded to the Treasury Department. The accompanying and inclosed replies to my request have been received. Document A: Statement from I. Mora Moss, esq., president, and Charles Baum, esq., secretary of the American Russian Commercial Company, having its office in this city and doing business in Alaska, with Document A, No. 1, accompanying the same, being a copy of a bill introduced in the House of Representatives March 29,1869, by Hon. A. A. Sargent to regulate the fur trade of Alaska. Document B: Statement from Messrs. Hutchinson, Kohl & Co., of San Francisco, a firm largely engaged in the Alaska fur trade, with statistics of furs collected at Sitka by the Russian-American Fur Company during the year 1866-67, and by Hutchinson, Kohl & Co. from December, 1867, to October, 1869. Document C: Statement from Mr. Taylor, of the firm of Taylor & Bendel, merchants, of San Francisco. This firm has traded for several years past in Alaska, Mr. Taylor having just returned from that country. Document D: Statement from Mr. Adolph Muller, trader in and manufacturer of furs in San Francisco, with Document D, No. 1, statistics of fur trade, and Document D, No. 2, propositions concerning Alaska seal fishery. Document E: Statement by Mr. E. S. Tibbey, of San Francisco, who has sent several trading expeditions to Alaska. Document F: Statement of A. Honchareuko, editor and publisher of the Alaska Herald at San Francisco. Document G: Letter of John F. Miller, esq., collector of the port of San Francisco, Cal., transmitting Document G, No. 1, being an abstract of imports and. exports of furs at San Francisco since the cession of Alaska to the United States, being a reply to a request from me for " a statistical statement from the records of the custom-house of the number and invoice value of the fur seal, sea otter, and other skins the product of Alaska shipped from the port of San Francisco to London and other foreign ports since the cession of Alaska." Document H: Statement of R. Korwin Piotrowski, United States storekeeper at San Francisco, lately an inspector of customs, and sent to Alaska by the Government to protect the fur-seal fisheries, in regard to Alaska fur trade, with Document H, No. 1, being a copy report of R. Korwin Piotrowski to Collector Miller on Alaska. Document I: Copy of the report on Alaska of Joseph Wilson, inspector of customs, to Collector Miller, Mr. Wilson being sent to Alaska by the Government to protect the fur-seal fisheries. Document K: Report on Alaska by E. 0. Jordan, inspector of customs at San Francisco, sent to Alaska by the Government to protect the fur-seal fisheries.1 While collecting the aforementioned statements from the different parties making them I have had frequent opportunity to converse with these and other persons here, who are more or less intelligent on the subject of our Alaskan possessions and their fur-seal fisheries. The almost universal sentiment in regard to these fisheries is that 1 The inclosures enumerated, with the exception of Documents C, H No. 1, I, and K; are missing from the hies. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 7 they should be open to the enterprise and capital of all American citizens; that all our traders should be allowed to go to the islands resorted to by the fur seal and sea otter, and there barter with the native Aleuts for the 150,000 skins of those animals which the fisheries will yield annually; that the Aleuts alone should be allowed to kill the fur seals, and that the Government should be paid a royalty of from $1 to $2 each for their skins as sold; that this trade in these fur-seal skins should be regulated by law, and that the Government should exert its authority at the seal islands to have the law enforced. Thus it is insisted the fisheries can be preserved, their product utilized, the natives have occupation and support, the Government derive a large revenue from them, and all American citizens have like privileges in connection with them. Under the law and the regulations of the Treasury Department, as at present established, the Government is at very great expense to protect these fisheries, but derives no revenues from them; and while, from motives of humanity, it allows the Aleuts to kill the seals for subsistence, the skins of the animals slain are all appropriated by the agents of Messrs. Hutchinson, Kohl & Co., of San Francisco, and Williams, Havens & Co., of New London, no other parties than the agents of these firms being allowed to land on the islands or barter with the natives for the skins. It would seem that the present policy of the Government in connection with these fisheries is susceptible of improvement which would result in a yield of revenue from them, while their products would be enjoyed alike by all our citizens, and this without the destruction or deterioration of the fisheries. All of which is respectfully submitted. Jno. T. McLean, Special Agent. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Document C.—Inclosure with McLean's Report of October 26,1869. San Francisco, Cal., October 20,1869. Sir: Tour communication of the 19th instant addressed to Messrs. Taylor & Bendel, of which house I am a partner, has been referred to me to answer in relation to the fur trade of Alaska for the information of the Secretary of the Treasury. The fur trade in general, with the exception of fur seals and sea otters, in Alaska will not compensate the trouble and expense of fitting out vessels for such purposes as long as the Hudson Bay Company hold trading posts in British territory, such as Fort Simpson, on the Stickeen River, and Fort Yukon, on the Yukon River, besides some smaller factories, as they can afford to give higher prices for furs and skins on account of cheaper cost of goods imported by them from foreign ports. Aside from this, the Indians can obtain all the rum which they need, a privilege which is strictly prohibited to American traders, which, however, is a wise measure taken by our Government, life and property not being safe among these Indians when under the influence of liquor. I have known cases where nearly whole tribes of Indians have traveled over 500 miles to buy their supplies from the Hudson Bay Company's stores in preference to trading with Americans. In regard to fur seals. 1 beg to state that we had last year a station 8 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. at St. George Island. From actual knowledge, I know that a contract was made with the Aleuts on that island for 35 cents for fur-seal skins for the first year (1868), to be taken out in trade, and I believe for 40 cents apiece for the next two years. This seems to be a very low price, but the expense of fitting out vessels, the high price of wages and provisions, and salary for agents nearly fourfold the cost price on the island, besides there are always more or less spoiled in salting tbem, which heretofore has been done by men who did not understand their business. All told, there were killed on St. George Island last year over 70,000 fur seals, of which 60,000 were killed by the Aleuts and about 10,000 by vessels' crews. The Aleuts are very careful about picking out those that are fit for killing, leaving the cows and pups under 3 years unmolested. The killing of these animals by anybody other than the natives should be strictly prohibited, as they might do more harm in killing 10,000 than the natives in killing 60,000. I can not say with certainty the number of seals taken from St. Paul and Otter islands, but I have no doubt they will amount to over 100,000, St. Paul being more than double the size of St. George Island, containing also more rookeries. Our house sold seal skins last year in this city for $4 (gold) a piece; but other parties who sent them to London at the same time received account sales, the prices obtained averaging from 26 to 30 shillings, which is equal to about $6.50 to $7.50 there, less freight, insurance, commissions, etc. In this market they are generally sold at an average price, but in London they are classified as follows: First, small, bringing the highest price; second, middlings, bringing the second price; third, large pups, bringing the third price; fourth, small wigs, bringing the fourth price; fifth, middling pups, bringing the fifth price; sixth, large wigs, bringing the sixth price; seventh, small pups, bringing the seventh price; black pups, cut and damaged. This year, however, the prices have declined, and I consider $3.25 (gold) in San Francisco a fair average price. Latest dispatches from London quote sales at 15 shillings. So far, all the fur-seal skins have been shipped to London, which has been the only place where they could be well dressed and cured. It is impossible to ascertain the exact number of sea otters killed in Alaska Territory, but from information received from the tyoons (chiefs) of several islands where the sea otter abounds, I have learned that from 2,000 to 2,500 are killed annually, to their knowledge, but outside of this, some whale ships and cod fishermen touch these several islands, where they obtain more or less skins from the natives, unknown to the tyoon. The price paid for sea otter skins at the islands last year was not over $20 (gold) apiece. Those which I obtained we could have sold in this market from $40 to $60, which we considered too little. We shipped them to Leipsic and realized only $30 average. This year, however, the prices here as well as in Europe have declined considerably, $25 here being considered a high price. Latest advices from London (which is the best market for these skins) quote sales at 175 shillings on an average, although on account of competition, especially on the island of Uhalaska, traders have to pay this year as high as $40 for medium skins. These furs, as well as the fur seal, have their different grades and ALASKA INDUSTRIES. V prices according to size and color of the skin and length of the hair, but the natives are very careful in selecting the animals, never killing pups when they can avoid it. The sea otter is very shy, and should never be killed with firearms. I have known instances that the noise of a paddle wheel or screw of a steamer has driven them from their grounds to seek some other more secure places. In regard to sea otter, I omitted to remark that a good many of these animals are caught on the northwest coast of California and Oregon, as well as in Lower California, whose skins are equally as good as those caught in Alaska, which are sold here at present at $20, gold coin; no restriction as to tilling or bringing them to this market. The foregoing I know from personal experience, having spent recently about six months on the northwest coast of Alaska and Bering sea. I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant, Thomas Taylor. John S. McLean, Esq., Special Agent Treasury Department, San Francisco. Gal. Document H, No. 1.—Tnclosure with McLean's Report of October 26, 1869. Custom-Hotjse, San Francisco, Cal., Collector's Office, September 2,1869. Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith the report of R. Korwin Piotrowski, esq., one of the four inspectors sent from this office on the 5th of March last, by order of the Department, to guard the islands of St. George and St. Paul, Alaska. I also inclose a printed copy of a letter from Mr. Piotrowski,1 written at my request after his return to this city, giving such information as he had gained while in Alaska in respect to the condition of the Territory and his impressions regarding the fur-seal interest, and the character of the natives. This letter is deemed to be. of some value, coming as it does from so reliable and intelligent a source, and I take pleasure in submitting it for the perusal of the Secretary of the Treasury. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, Jno. F. Miller, Collector. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Document I.—Lnclosure with McLean's Report of October 26,1869. San Francisco, Cal., September 27,1869. Sir: Directed by you in March last to proceed to Alaska for the purpose of assisting Inspector La Grange in preventing the landing of persons or merchandise upon any portion of the island of St. Paul, and such other duties as might be necessary in the performance of that trust, I embarked on the steamer Alexander on the 5th of March, 1869, and after a passage of fourteen days arrived at Unalaska, at which 1 The enclosure referred to in this letter is missing. 10 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. place we remained five days—the time having been consumed in discharging cargo and coaling—having while on shore constant interviews with the natives, whom we found to be quiet, inoffensive, and industrious. After coaling we proceeded on our journey, and in forty-eight hours arrived at St. Paul Island where we finally debarked. Everything had been provided for our comfort, though the weather* was exceedingly cold. On our arrival we found the bark Monticello laden with trading- goods from the port of Honolulu in the Sandwich Islands. We at once notified the captain, in accordance with our orders, that he could not land his cargo, and he immediately departed. After taking possession of the island for the Government nothing of importance transpired till the 27th of April, when the schooner Lewis Perry from San Francisco hove in sight. Manning our boats we at once attempted to board her and notify her captain not to land or allow any of his men on shore, but owing to the heavy sea prevailing at the time we found it impossible to do so. The schooner was blown out to sea, she having made two unsuccessful attempts to land on Otter Island, distant about 8 miles from St. Paul. Two days after she hove in sight again and we boarded her at once and notified the captain of our instructions, informing him that he must not land on Otter Island, Walrus Island, or the Island of St. Paul, or approach within the maritime distance indicated by law. Leaving revenue officer Lieutenant Barnes in charge, assisted by Lieutenant Mast of the Second Artillery and a detachment of ten men from Kadiak, furnished by General Davis, after being relieved by the steamer Lincoln on the 27th day of May, we departed from St. Paul and arrived safely at the island of Unalaska on the 30th of the same month, and there remained awaiting transportation till the 2d of August, at which time, procuring passage on the schooner Fanny, after a passage of nineteen days arrived in San Francisco. No portion of the islands named can ever be valuable for agriculture, though throughout the latter part of the summer the grazing is excellent and abundant, but owing to the humid nature of the climate it is impossible to cure the grasses or make them into hay. The cod fisheries are mainly confined to the islands of Unga, Unalaska, and Kadiak, the islands of St. Paul, St. George, and Otter being mainly valuable for the seal fisheries, which in the aggregate furnish annually about 75,000 seal skins. In addition to the above there were captured last year about 3,000 sea-otter skins. The seal skins, though only valued by Hutchinson, Kohl & Co. at the sum of $2 each, I am informed that the entire cargo brought in London $6.50 per skin, making in the aggregate a total valuation of $487,500; and 3,000 sea-otter skins valued at $20, which is far below their market value, would yield $60,000 more, making a total valuation of skins exported $547,500, or in round numbers over half a million dollars. This vast revenue, now controlled by a single company, would in twelve or thirteen years refund the entire sum paid for this territory to the Russian Government, and, if properly guarded, be to the Treasury of the United States a source of endless revenue. The matter of procuring this revenue will at once address itself to the wisdom of our Representatives at Washington. It would seem, as a matter of justice to the Government, that the advantages of this valuable trade should be made known as widely as possible, and there is no doubt but if the lease or franchise were to take place under proper Government restrictions to prevent the exhaustion of the animals, and put up in the city of New York, that at least one ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 11 quarter of a million of dollars annually could be realized by the Government from this trade alone. Cereals and vegetables it is impossible to raise, owing to the shortness of the season, and for all time these supplies will have to be had from the South. The necessaries of life are all cheap and abundant, but everything in the way of luxuries is enormously high. The natives are paid by the company 40 cents per seal skin and for otter skins from $1 up to $40 apiece. The natives, though earning a considerable amount of money, area thriftless,improvident people, and spend it as fast as they receive it. With regard to the mineral resources of the Territory I am entirely uninformed, having had no opportunity for observation, but on the island of Unga coal has been found, though on trial it is said to be of an inferior quality. With regard to the general resources of the Territory, I respectfully refer you to the very able report of Captain Piotrowski, who, speaking the Russian language fluently, is better qualified to furnish the general details than I feel myself able to do. All of which is respectfully submitted. I have the honor to remain, yours, respectfully, Joseph Wilson, Inspector of Customs. Gen. John F. Miller, Collector of Customs. Document K.—Inclosure with McLean's Report of October 26,1869. San Francisco, Cal., October 26,1869. Sir : In accordance with your request, I have the honor to submit a few items in regard to the seal fisheries, etc., of Alaska. On the 5th of March, 1869,1 received orders from Gen. John F. Miller, collector of the port of San Francisco, to proceed to the Island of St. George, Alaska, for the purpose of assisting R. Korwin Piotrowski, inspector of customs, in preventing the landing of any persons or merchandise upon any portion of said island. We arrived at the island on the 26th of March, where I remained until the 26th of May, 1869. I was then relieved by the United States revenue cutter Lincoln and taken to the Island of Unalaska, remaining at the latter for transportation until the 2d of August, when I procured passage on the schooner Fanny for San Francisco. During my sojourn upon the above-named islands I ascertained that the price paid by traders, etc., for fur-seal skins was from 25 to 35 cents per skin last year, and that the price this year was to be 40 cents, the market value of seal skins at San Francisco being from $4 to $4.50 per skin. About 140,000 fur seals were captured on the islands of St. George and St. Paul last year (1868). The seals come to these islands in May and remain until the latter part of October or the middle of November. During the time from October to November they are killed by the natives only; and none other than natives should be employed in the killing business for the following reasons: The inhabitants of those islands (St. George and St. Paul) where seals breed, have no other resources to live on than the seal hunting. The peculiar habits of the animal are perfectly known 12 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. only to the natives, who in the hunting season segregate the males from the females with astonishing adroitness and agility, and should therefore alone be permitted to kill them; besides it is the vital interest of the natives to protect and husband this their only source of and only means of existence. It is therefore thought by persons acquainted with those islands that the Government should limit the number of seals to be killed each year so as to protect the natives and also prevent the extermination of the fur seal. As for the sea otter, I can give but little information about them, any more than that from 1,500 to 2,000 are captured yearly about the Aleutian Islands, and by the natives only, who receive from the traders from $20 to $40 per skin—the skins selling in San Francisco for from $50 to $100. It is my opinion that the most important resources of the Territory of Alaska are the far-bearing animals, and that in no case should the indiscriminate slaughtering of these animals be permitted. Proper protection by the Government and a royalty imposed upon each skin would be the means of protecting the native population and a source of great revenue to the Government of the United States. Being unacquainted with the Russian language, my knowledge is but limited; but should the few items above, which have come under my observation, help to form an idea of the fur trade of Alaska, I will feel happy at the thought of contributing to so worthy an end. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. C. Jordan, Inspector of Customs. Jno. T. McLean, Special Agent, San Francisco, Gal. 1870. Extract from report of Gapt. G. W. Raymond, United States Engineer Corps and acting inspector of customs for AlasJca. San Francisco, Cal., January l, 1870. # # # # * My opportunities for observation at the various points in Alaska at which we touched in our journey to and from Norton Sound were so limited in comparison with those of many others who have visited and written concerning them that I refrain from attempting to give any account of them; but I should be remiss in my duty were I to close this report without making any reference to the most important and valuable portion of our newly acquired territory, the seal islands of St. Paul and St. George. However candid and intelligent observers may differ as regards the value and resources of other portions of the Territory, with reference to the immense value of the seal islands there can be but one opinion; but owing to peculiar circumstances the value of the seal fishery depends almost entirely upon the manner in which it is conducted, and I desire to record my opinion, with whatever weight may attach thereto, in favor of its being placed in the hands of one company of character, means, and ability j which should be held strictly responsible to the Government for the manner in which it is carried on. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 13 I will only allude to the danger which exists of the complete destruction of the seal trade by the interference of irresponsible and unscrupulous persons, for this danger has been pointed out and described at length by those whose opinions will carry more weight than my own; but I will briefly call attention to another aspect of the question. The Aleuts or native iuhabitants of these islands and those of the Aleutian Archipelago are a childlike and simple-minded people, who, although eminently capable of civilization, have not yet, in consequence of peculiarities of climate and the want of the civilizing effect of varied industries, attained to the power and ability of self-protection. These people are easily influenced by circumstances for good or evil. The policy of the Russian company, judged by its results, seems to have been a good one, and we should hesitate before we change this policy, which it will be for the interests of a great company to continue, for one which will expose the natives to the evil influences of unscrupulous adyenturers. It is true that "monopolies are repugnant to the institutions of a free people;'7 but so are Indians and uncivilized natives. In placing these people upon the seal islands, Russia assumed the duty of supporting, protecting, and civilizing them; and with the privileges and immunities which we have purchased, this duty has become ours until the time shall arrive when they may be competent to assume and exercise these rights and privileges of American citizens, by means of which they may protect themselves. With proper management I believe the seal fisheries maybe made to pay the Government a revenue of more than $100,000 per annum. We may, perhaps, in the future develop other sources of wealth in Alaska, but for the present this constitutes by far the most important; and it is to be hoped that it will not be sacrificed by allowing the business to fall into the hands of those who will certainly destroy it. I am under obligations for much valuable information and assistance to all the traders of northern Alaska. Respectfully submitted. Chas. S". Raymond, Inspector of Customs, Yukon River, Alasha. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. Lieut. W. B. Barnes, R. C. S.: Affairs on Islands. St. Paul Island, Bering Sea, June 14,1870. Sir : I would respectfully beg leave to make the following report: On the 27th of July, 1869,1 communicated to the Department all transactions connected with the revenue to that date, since which time occurrences have transpired that are incumbent on me to report. On my arrival at this island.the military sent here for my assistance issued orders taking command of the place. Alone, I was powerless to contend against it, although I did then protest. Lieut. James L. Mast, Second United States Artillery, in command of the troops, advised the headquarters at Sitka, General Davis commanding, that it would be useless to send provisions here to supply the natives. 14 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. I therefore at the time made an estimate and allowed the natives to kill seal to cover the amount. After taking these, the natives, with a petition, requested me to extend the number. The petition and a translation of the same please find inclosed. It is signed by the three chiefs and nine of the principal men of the island. After giving a careful examination to each point of this petition, I concluded, in consideration of other circumstances having occurred bearing upon the permission given to the steamer Alexander by Gen. G. H. Thomas, indorsed with authority from the Secretary of the Treasury (since proved to be one of God's providences), the natives being dependent on taking skins for their sustenance, and facts represented in their petition, I extended the permission to take more skins, the petitioners assuring me that they would in no manner take seals that would eventually accrue to the disadvantage of the Government, to theirs, or to the seal rookeries, thus affording the commander of these islands resources whereby their sustenance could be secured. The whole number of skins taken is 62,757, which are now on the island, thus allowing to each soul 28 cents a day during one year. I also beg leave to state a sad casualty connected with the cutter Lincoln when at this island on October 9, 1869. The captain's gig, while the crew were pulling her ashore from the vessel, was capsized by a heavy breaker, and three of the men were, unfortunately, drowned. Every endeavor was used to save them. The bodies were soon after recovered, and on the next day they were suitably and decently interred. I would also state that on Sunday, November 6,1869, a gale of wind commenced from the south and east, increasing rapidly until the 7th (Monday morning). The sea, as far as the eye could reach to the east, was a continual bed of foam, with heavy breakers vieing with each in size and anger, the wind blowing fearfully, making it almost impossible to stem its fury, the water rising very high, breaking over the beach, completely inundating the lower part of the village, so that a number of the inhabitants' dwellings were flooded, and they were obliged to move. The water in its course undermined a storehouse containing 300 days' Government rations for Lieutenant Mast, and other private property. The floor of the building was entirely washed away, the water in its strength carrying nearly all the contents into the sea. A very small portion of the stores was saved in a badly damaged condition. It was an act of Providence that the steamer Alexander was allowed to bring provisions, otherwise there would have been great suffering and privation here, and at this date (March 19, 1870) we are nearly destitute of provisions; flour is entirely gone, and but a few hundred pounds of old ship bread on hand. Of sugar, molasses, and butter we have none. The natives on the coast north of here, and all those of the Aleutian group, are dependent on this island for skins to cover their large canoes (bi-dar-ros) and small canoes (bi-darks). I have allowed all sea lion and old-wig hides, and oil to soak the same, to be shipped to Unalaska, from which place they are distributed by vessels touching at the different places free of expense. The amount sent this last season is 527 hides and 34 barrels of oil and blubber. August 20,1869, the steamer Alexander took 6,707 seal skins left here by Hutchinson, Kohl & Co. in the season of 1868. The army transport steamer Newbern arrived yesterday, bringing fresh troops for these islands, Lieutenant Huggins relieving Lieutenant Mast. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 15 I hereby acknowledge receipt of instructions of date February 2, 1870. The prohibition referred to has been and will be strictly enforced. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Winslow B. Barnes, Third Lieutenant, United States Revenue Service. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosure to report of Lieutenant Barnes, dated June 14, 1870. [Translation.] St. Paul Island, September 1,1869. On your arrival at this island you read your instructions in our presence. Those instructions were immediately translated to us, and we learned from them that the Secretary of the Treasury left to your judgment and intrusted you to designate the number of seals we can kill this year. Tou also handed us a translation of the order of 1868, by which the killing of seals was prohibited. The fulfillment of this order would have not only brought us to extreme poverty, but would have deprived us of means of subsistence. We have no money for changing the place of our residence, and the prohibition of seal-killing will cause our ruin. You decided upon a certain number of seals to be taken for our subsistence. Knowing that the fixing of the number of seals was left to you, we take the liberty to request you to increase the number of seals to be killed this season, and beg to explain hereby the reasons which prompt us to do so. Twelve cents a day is not sufficient for our food, and besides food we want warm clothing for the cold winter, and if we do not provide them our families will suffer from the rigor of the climate. Our houses must nearly all be repaired. Most of us have debts which we consider it our duty to pay before expending for ourselves. We have a church and a school which we support. We have widows and orphans who require the support of the community. Finally, we can not subsist on seal meat alone. The rigor of the winters and the discomfort of our dwellings made us acquire the habit of drinking tea, which warms and stimulates us. We are accustomed to this beverage, and it is difficult for us to dispense with it. We request you to give due attention to our wants, and trust that you will perceive the necessity of increasing the number of seals you have decided may be killed in one year. Special Agent Charles Bryant: Annual Report for 1870. Island of St. Paul, Alaska, July 14,1870. Sir : In compliance with the instructions of the Department of May 24,1870, ordering me to take charge of the sealing islands and to provide for the immediate wants of the inhabitants, if found in a condition 16 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. of necessity, I called on the chiefs at each island to give me a statement of the actual wants of the population. From the information so obtained and from the absence of provisions in the stores of Hutchinson, Kohl & Co. and Williams & Havens, it became apparent that measures should be taken for supplying the natives from such stores as were put on board the revenue steamer Lincoln in prevision of that emergency. 1 therefore requested the commander of the Lincoln to land on the islands all the bread and flour which might be possibly spared from his vessel, as well as the provisions specially ordered by Department's telegram to the collector of customs at San Francisco dated June 8,1870. The following supplies were put at my disposition: Bread and flour, 20,000 pounds; sugar, 4,000 pounds; tea, 525 pounds; salt (as per report of July 5), 10 tons. The native population on St. Paul being 240, and on St. George 132, all these stores will be divided between the two islands to correspond as nearly as possible with the proportion of said population. The amount of provisions usually required per month for an average family of six persons, as stated by the chiefs, has been, since the treaty of cession, as follows: Bread and flour, 120 pounds; sugar, 15 pounds; tea, 3 pounds; seal flesh from 60 animals of medium size. These figures, when multiplied by the number of average families (62 x 6=372), give the amounts required for one month on both islands: Bread and flour, 7,440 pounds; tea, 186 pounds; sugar, 930 pounds; seal flesh from 3,720 animals. As my calculations at San Francisco had to be reduced to the lowest rates in view of the fact that the Lincoln would take a large quantity of coal at Nanaimo, it necessarily follows that the provisions now on hand can not last four months, as I expected, if no reduction is made from the requisition of the chiefs. It being desirable to satisfy the natives to the same extent as was done under the control of private companies, I determined to issue rations without reduction, in the hope that the Department will find means to forward more supplies during the three months from the date of this letter, through which period my present supplies will carry me at the above rates. The mode of issuing and distributing provisions, determined upon after consultation with the chiefs, will be on each island as follows: A committee of three chiefs elected by the people will receive every week from the officer in charge a weekly proportion of provisions and receipt for the same in a book provided for that purpose. The distribution will be made by the chiefs under the supervision of said officer. As to the seal flesh, I determined to allow the killing from time to time of such numbers of seals as will be actually eaten. No killing will be permitted for the purpose of putting up dried seal flesh for the coming winter, unless the prohibition contained in my instructions is expressly revoked by further orders from the Department. In regard to the skins of animals which will be killed for flesh, I considered but just tnat the natives should salt, preserve, and hold at the disposition of the Government such quantity of choice skins from each killing as will be sufficient to cover the actual cost of provisions and salt issued to them up to the date of said killing, adopting the usual market price of skins on the islands (40 cents) as a standard of calculation. By this arrangement, after three months from date, a lot of 2,100 choice skins on St. Paul and 1,500 on St. George will be held free of any private claim at the disposition of the Treasury Department. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 17 These 3,600 skins, if sold at auction in San Francisco, would probably realize from $10,000 to $12,000 in coin, and thus, after deduction of about $2,000 for the supplies now granted and the expenses of transportation and sale, a fund of about $8,000 might be created to cover further expenditures on behalf of the natives of the sealing islands. With reference to the balance of skins which will remain in the hands of the natives after deduction of the number reserved as above, I did not consider it advisable, in the absence of any instructions on this point, to interfere with the desire expressed by the natives that they might be allowed to exchange or sell said skins for the purpose of procuring from the stores now on the islands dry goods, clothing, crockery ware, hardware, and various small articles to which they have been accustomed for many years past. A sufficient stock of these commodities is still extant on the islands from last year's supplies, but more clothing will be absolutely required for the coming winter. In this connection I beg leave respectfully to invite the attention of the Department to the fact that the Aleutian population of the sealing islands has, with very slight variations, the same wants as any rural community in the Christian world. Should the killing of seals be permitted to cover the wants for the whole year, the required number of seals to be killed would be in all (from July 15 of this year) 44,640 (3,720x12). Coming to that part of the instructions given me which refers to suggestions as to the future action of the Government in regard to the sealing islands, I have to state that under the pressure of urgent business—conferences with natives, attendance to the counting of skins to be taken on the steamer Alexander, and in view of the necessity of sending this letter as soon as possible—I can only advert to such features as require prompt and immediate action. Should-no change have occurred in the legislation or in the views of the Department in regard to the sealing islands, I would suggest that the following supplies be forwarded with all possible speed, to secure the subsistence of the population for eight months from October 15 of this year to June 15 of 1871: Bread and flour, 59,536 pounds; sugar, 6,740 pounds; tea, 1,488 pounds; salt, 45 tons; wood for baking purposes, 10 cords. If the temporary arrangements adopted by me are approved and authority should be given me to prolong the same for the coming winter, I would suggest that Hutchinson, Kohl & Co. may be authorized to send to the islands the necessary stock of clothing, dry goods, hardware, etc.; otherwise, that measures be devised to provide for those commodities on account of the skins which may be taken to San Francisco at the end of this year's sealing season. In view of the very limited capacities of our revenue cutters for carrying freight, it would seem advisable to charter a sailing vessel for the purpose of carrying supplies to the islands and taking to San Francisco such skins as may be ready for shipment. Should any information be desired on that behalf, I would respectfully refer to Capt. O. M. Scam- mon, commander of the Lincoln, who is well acquainted with the resources of the Pacific Coast and has devoted much attention to the subject under consideration. As soon as circumstances will permit I will devote myself to the completion of a detailed plan of administration of the sealing islands. In connection with this matter I would respectfully request that Mr. Buy- nitzky be relieved from the island of St. George as soon as practicable H. Doc. 92 2 18 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. and ordered to assist me at St. Paul for some time before leaving for Washington. I consider it particularly desirable that he should become thoroughly acquainted with all the details of the plan to be submitted by me to the Department. I am, sir, very respectfully, Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Hon. Geo. S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Report of S. HT. Buynitzky, of the Treasury Department, stationed at St. Paul Island, Alaska, in charge of the seal fishery. I Washington, D. C, December 30,1870. Sir : By letter of instructions of May 25, 1870, I have been detailed to the islands of St. Paul and St. George, Alaska, there to act under the orders of Capt. Charles Bryant, special agent of the Treasury Department, and also to obtain and report to the Department such information as might be acquired relative to the seal fishery and the commercial interests of the islands and of the country generally. Concerning my action at the islands under the instructions of Capt. Charles Bryant, I beg leave respectfully to refer to Mr. Bryant's official reports. As to the information which I have been able to acquire relative to the seal fishery and the commercial interests of the islands and of the country, I have the honor to submit the following: The islands of St. Paul and St. George, owing to their isolated position, their climate, and the configuration of their shores, seem to have been particularly designed by nature for the propagation of the species of seals commonly known under the name of fur seal and scientifically classified under the appellation of u Phoca ursina." The number of fur seals congregating every summer at the islands is literally beyond computation. At the commencement of spring they begin to appear in the Bering Sea, coming from the Pacific through the straits of the Aleutian islands, chiefly through Unimak Pass. Full-grown males (called bulls) are the earliest visitors at the islands of St. George and St. Paul. They approach the islands in the last days of April, and after a careful survey of their habitual resting grounds settle thereon, to await the arrival of the females, which takes place considerably later. The seals invariably select for their resting grounds (rookeries) such beaches as are strewn over with large bowlders, affording a safe hold against the sweep of the surf. Flat, sandy beaches are carefully avoided by them, probably on account of the danger to which the new-born seals would be exposed of being carried off by the sea before they have learned to live in that element. From the day of their settling on the rookeries to the epoch of the appearance of the females the bulls sleep almost without interruption. Toward the end of May they begin to look out for the coming of their families. The females (cows) generally recognize their former mates, and land at their respective rookeries. There being a considerable difference between the male and female in regard to age of puberty (6 years for the male and 2 for the female), this species is necessarily polygamous, and an average family numbers about ten cows to one bull. The rookeries nearest to the water are occupied by the propagators, while the minor individuals of the tribe ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 19 have to camp on the slopes, where they are more exposed to the danger of being cut off from the sea and to become the prey of the hunter. The hunting begins as soon as the resting grounds are fully occupied, which generally happens about the end of June. It is carried on until the middle of November, when the seals leave the islands, to disappear for five months in the vast expanse of the Pacific. The surrounding, driving, killing, and flensing of the fur seals has been reduced to a science by the natives of the islands. A day is waited for when the direction of the wind allows of a rookery being approached so that the game can not scent the hunters. A party of from twenty to thirty men, armed with clubs, cautiously advance along the shore until the retreat of the animals toward the sea is cut off by the line of hunters. Then, at a signal from the chief of the expedition, the men rush up the cliffs and drive toward the interior of the island as many seals as have been surrounded. When the herd has been driven to a certain distance from the shore, a halt i&made, and a sorting of the game as to age, sex, and condition of the fur is effected. This operation requires the exercise of a lifelong experience, and is of the utmost importance, as the killing of females, which are easily mistaken for young males even by the natives, would endanger the propagation of the species, and the slaughtering of males under 2 or over 4 years old would be a useless extermination, their furs having little value for trade. The sorting once accomplished, all the animals not destined for killing are allowed to escape toward the rookery, and the balance of the herd is driven to the slaughtering grounds, situated near the salt houses. Great care is taken, when driving, that the animals do not become overheated, for should this happen the skins would become worthless, the fur falling off. On reaching the slaughtering grounds, the drove is allowed a rest of two or three hours, after which, at a signal given by one of the chiefs, the killing is effected with wonderful rapidity. I have seen a drove of 1,600 seals dispatched by 30 men in little more than an hour of time. As soon as the animals are killed, all available hands, men, women, and children, rush to the work of flensing, which has to be finished as soon as possible, to prevent the carcasses from stiffening. Every part of the animal is turned to account—skin, flesh, blubber, and intestines. The skins are immediately taken to the salt house and placed in large vats, the fur side down, and the flesh side plentifully sprinkled with salt. When the skins have been thoroughly saturated with salt, which process requires about forty days, they are taken up and shaken. Then another lighter coating of salt is applied, and they are booked up in folds, ready for shipment. The commercial value of fur-seal skins depends upon their size, and particularly upon the quality of the fur. The greatest proportion of first-class skins are obtained from seals 3 years old. London is the most important and almost the only market for fur-seal skins. There they are manufactured into elegant furs by a series of technical operations, the secret whereof is jealously kept by a single firm. The prices obtained in London by American tradersfor seal skins shipped in 1867 and 1868 ranged from 16 to 30 shillings per skin, according to quality. The cost of each skin rendered at London, including compensation of natives, expenses for salt, shipment from the islands to San Francisco, transshipment for Europe, freight and commissions, amounted to $1.50 in gold. This was the figure of costs when the price paid by the tra'ders to the natives for each skin was nominally from 20 to 40 cents, but actually less, as the same traders realized on some articles furnished to the natives a profit of nearly 100 per cent. At present, 20 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. when the Alaska Commercial Company has fixed the price to be paid to the natives at 40 cents per skin and the advance on San Francisco prices of commodities brought to the islands at only 25 per cent, the above figure of costs will be considerably increased. Some increase of costs will be occasioned by the obligations assumed on the part of the company as to the establishment and keeping of gratuitous schools for the natives, and also by certain additional advantages vouchsafed to the natives, as appears from the instructions of the company to its agents, a copy whereof is herewith submitted. So that in future the actual cost of each seal skin rendered at London will amount to no less than $2, exclusive of the pro rata of the rental and the tax imposed by the conditions of the lease. The fat or blubber of all the seals killed for their skins is not more than sufficient to supply the want of fuel at the islands. Although every chip of driftwood is carefully collected by the natives and brought with great pains to the village from the remotest points, almost all of it is used up in the repairs continually required by the rapidly decaying woodwork of their miserable dwellings, and only a small quantity may be reserved for the purpose of kindling the seal-blubber fires. The summer temperature at the islands being 45° and the mean temperature of the year about 38°, the dwellings, which are nothing better than cellars covered with turf, have to be heated all the year round. Notwithstanding the enormous quantity of seal blubber consumed at the islands, a considerable amount of it might be converted into seal oil for exportation. Thousands of old bulls, which have become useless for the purposes of propagation and are an incumbrance to the rookeries, might be killed for their blubber, and thus a new and profitable article of trade added to the resources of the islands. Unfortunately, the market price of seal oil is lower than the tax offered on this article by the competitors for the lease of the islands, and consequently this branch of industry has no chance of being developed. The population of the islands, numbering 240 on St. Paul and 125 on St. George, are mostly Aleutes, some half-breeds, and a few descendants of Kamchadales brought over from Kamchatka by the vessels of the Bussian- American Company. Their mother tongue is the Aleutian—a language spoken with slight variations all over the Aleutian islands and the southeast coast of the Alaskan peninsula. The Bussian language is understood by all and is intelligently spoken by many. They all belong to the Greco-Bussian Catholic Church, and are sincerely attached to their religion. According to the statement of the natives of the islands of St. Paul and St. George, a notable improvement in their material welfare has taken place since the transfer of the Territory to the United States. Still, their prosperity is far from being in harmony with the importance of their share in the production of wealth. Their dwellings—damp, insalubrious hovels, constructed of driftwood and sods—are particularly in painful contrast with all other conditions of their life. There being no building materials at the islands, the natives are unable to accomplish any considerable improvement in their system of building without assistance on the part of the Government. The prevalence of inflammatory diseases of the lungs, mostly due to the miserable condition of dwellings, requires the presence of a medical practitioner at each island. The recall this summer of the United States troops, and therewith of the contract doctors who were attached to the military posts at the islands, leaves the population without medical assistance. Some provision toward supplying this want is absolutely ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 21 necessary. The only place in the Territory besides the islands of St. Paul and St. George which I had the opportunity to visit, was Unalaska, the most important of the Aleutian islands. Situated near the Unimak Pass, which is the best entrance to the Bering Sea, and possessing a good harbor, Unalaska is visited by vessels engaged in the fur trade more than any other port, not excepting Sitka. The principal settlement of the island is Iliuliuk Harbor, with 300 inhabitants. It is the religious metropolis of the Aleutian tribe. From this point the light of Christianity spread all over the Aleutian archipelago. Here lived the apostle of the Aleutes, Father John Yeniaminov, whose name and teachings are reverently transmitted from father to son in every Aleutian family. Fishing and sea-otter hunting are the principal occupations of the inhabitants of Unalaska. Fresh and dried fish is the staple article of food. The sea-otter skins, of which the Unalaskans secure from three to four hundred a year, are traded at the rate of from $15 to $35 for clothing, hardware, crockery, sugar, tea, and tobacco. The Aleutian tribe, numbering about 3,000, represents nine-tenths of the trade of the Territory, and is unquestionably far in advance of all other tribes with respect to moral, religious, and social development. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, S. N. Buynitzky, Clerk. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. 1871. Special Agent Charles Bryant: Preliminary Report for 1871. Office Special Agency, St. Paul Island, May 19, 1871. Sir : I have the honor to report the arrival on the 15th of the present month at this island of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, laden with material and supplies for the island. As I have received no communication whatever from the Department by said steamer, I must conclude that such matter must have been sent by jaistake to Sitka, in which case I am not likely to receive it for a year or so, and I beg leave to request that as no vessels but those belonging to the Alaska Commercial Company visit those islands, instructions be given that all mails be forwarded to those islands from San Francisco direct. In the absence of any instructions, I shall be guided by a certified copy of the act of Congress authorizing the lease and the conditions of the lease as given me by the company. I am happy to report that thus far the conditions have been fully complied with. The store has been well stocked with goods of good quality and sold at low prices; provisions also the same. The health of the inhabitants has been very good since my last report. There have been 6 births and 6 deaths—1 adult, 2 boys—and 3 infants. The Alaska Commercial Company have brought at their own expense a physician to reside permanently on the island. In November last a school was opened for the natives, which was 22 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. attended by 29 pupils, which were between the ages of 5 and 17 years. The average attendance was 95 per cent. All manifested great interest in learning the English language and made good progress. All learned the alphabet, and many were able to read simple sentences. I herewith transmit a very able report of Acting Assistant Special Agent Samuel Falconer on the condition of the island of St. George, under his charge. I have the honor to be, respectfully, yours, Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Report of Assistant Agent Falconer.—Inclosure with report of Special Agent Bryant, dated May 19, 1871. St. George Island, Bering Sea, May 14,1871. Sir : Having been appointed by you October 10,1870, to act as your assistant on St. George Island, I beg leave to submit the following report. On arriving at my post of duty I was furnished by your late assistant, Mr. S. 3S". Buynitzky, the following statement, purporting to be the number of seals taken during his term of office, together with that of Lieut. B. Henderson, for the year 1870 up to time of writing: St. George Island, October 14,1870. There were taken this year, up to July 17, 2,434 fur seal; from July 17 to October 10, 4,352; atotahof 6,786. Of this number 1,500 skins are kept free from any private claim, subject to further orders of the Treasury Department. S. N. Buynitzky. In addition to this number, there were taken during the close of the season 473 fur seals, making a grand total of 7,259 for the year 1870. The number of seal pups killed during the whole season for native food foots up to 1,200, and are not included in the above figures. As the far-seal season was almost closed before my arrival, I am unable to furnish you with much of a report on this subject, but will confine my remarks chiefly to the native inhabitants of the place, together with other incidents of interest which happened from time to time. I was not long a resident of the place until I found, to my astonishment, a higher degree of civilization existing among them than I anticipated ; and I am happy to add in reference to this that the new arrivals who are in the employ of the Alaska Commercial Company proved to be no ways detrimental to them in their ideas, but on the contrary assisted them in carrying out this order of civilization into a higher degree of perfection. Indeed, I can not speak too highly of Mr. Brown, the agent of this company, who has been very particular in carrying out the conditions of the agreement between the company and the Government, and the many other acts of kindness shown them in aid of their comfort has rendered him quite a favorite among them. The company has furnished abundance of everything that is necessary for the comfort and sustenance of life, and. from the very low prices charged on many of the principal articles has left no room for complaints. In speaking of these people, I may safely state that I know of no class of the human race that enjoy themselves any more than they do. Scarcely has an evening passed over their heads but they have engaged in dancing or some other amusements. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 23 The health of the island is good, there being no disease of any kind upon it, the number of deaths since my arrival being 3, 2 of which were infants, and caused by sheer neglect of their parents; the other was a child of 5 years, the ailment of which had been of long standing. Quite different from that of last year, when there were 19 deaths recorded on the books kept by the chief of the island. From inquiry I have learned that many of the deaths referred to were caused by the manufacture and use of " quas," a kind of liquor made by the natives out of flour and sugar. This year there has been a stop put to the manufacturing of the article, the result of which will doubtless keep many from tilling early graves. The number of births up to date were 5; 4 of which are alive and doing well. On the 1st of November last a school was reestablished for the natives, the attendance on which numbers about 25, and from the advanced state they were left in by our friend Mr. Buynitzky it was no difficult task to get along with them. They are making rapid progress, and feel anxious to learn the English language. Men who have advanced to the age of 30 and 40 attend school and are making equal progress. The temperature of the weather I kept, and used Fahrenheit's thermometer. For the last two months of the year 1870 the mean temperature ranged as follows: For November, 30.80; December, 28.60; for January, 1871, mean 30.04; February, 23.22; March, 14.85, and April, 32.52. The coldest day during the entire winter season was on the 19th of February, the thermometer indicating as low as zero, although you will perceive that March was the coldest month by great odds. On the 2d of this month the ice made its appearance and landed on the north side of the island in a limited quantity, but day after day it forced its way along from the north until it made a complete bridge between this island and that of St. Paul. Indeed, I am of opinion that the whole surface of the sea to the north of this was a solid sheet of ice. In a report given by a former agent of this Territory, it was stated that the white bear was known to frequent these islands. At that time I doubted the assertion, but to-day I am ready to indorse it. Not that I have seen any pay us a visit, but it is not but what an opportunity has presented itself for them to do so. The schooner H. M. Hutchinson (owners, Hutchinson, Kohl & Co., San Francisco) sailed from this island on the 20th of October last in ballast, en route for San Francisco, E. Henning in command; also the steamship Gonstantine, same owners, sailed from here on the 12th of October last en route for San Francisco, with 1,800 salted seal skins on board taken from this island, M. C. Erskine in command. I am respectfully, your obedient servant, Samuel Falconer, Acting Assistant Special Agent. Capt. Charles Bryant, Special Agent of Treasury Department. Special Agent Bryant: Annual Report for 1871. Fairhaven, Mass., November 10, 1871. Sir: I have the honor to report the arrival at St. Paul Island, Alaska Territory, on the 31st of July last past, the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, from San Francisco, having on J 24 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. board as passenger Stephen N. Buynitzky, esq., a clerk of the Department, with authority to take charge of the islands and allow me to report for duty in the Atlantic States, and now beg leave to submit the following report: For the details of my administration from the time of my taking charge of the seal islands, July 10,1870, until the departure of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Constantine, October 12 of the same year, I beg leave to refer to my former reports, dated July 14 and October 12, respectively. The sealing season had so nearly expired at that time that only 1,600 seals were taken for their skins. November 2 about 4 inches of snow fell, and, it becoming sufficiently cold for the purpose, the natives commenced taking their supply of winter food and completed it the 11th of the same month, taking in all 2,800 young seals. These were obtained by driving the females with their young to the uplands, where the pups were caught and examined, males only being selected for this purpose, the others being allowed to return to the rookery. Those selected are driven to the village and slaughtered, after which the chiefs apportion to each family its part. Some families preserve by salting; others suspend the carcass on poles, allowing them to freeze, and are so preserved for eating fresh. These pups at the time are 4 months old, and weigh on an average 36^ pounds. Their skins have no commercial value. The principal occupation of the natives during the winter months is hunting foxes, which abound in large numbers on the island, for their skins for sale, and shooting such small game for food as can be found at that time of year. The present year the company has paid premiums to the parties getting the three highest numbers, and under this stimulant 1,400 were taken during the months of November, December, January, and February. During the holidays, from Christmas to Lent, there was much drunkenness from beer made by fermenting sugar and flour together. The evil became so great that it was found necessary to restrict the sale of sugar to a bare ration, sufficient for their tea, and even then so strong was their appetite that they would associate together and save their small allowance until enough could be had to have a holiday, as they term it. This was especially the case on birth and saint days. Fortunately, it does not make them quarrelsome. Twice I found it necessary to interpose my authority to prevent disturbance among the natives, and once a difficulty occurred between the first chief, when drunk, and one of the employees of the company, which led to some dissatisfaction among the people, but the trouble was amicably arranged. There is no authority in the native government or provision for punishing crime other than the church by penance, and this seems insufficient for this kind of misdemeanor. It would seem worthy of consideration whether authority should not ^be given the officer in charge of the island to impose small fines in these cases and apply the proceeds to relieving the necessities of the poor. The only possible place where a school could be accommodated was the dining room of the employees of the company, and that could be had only two hours each afternoon. As early as practicable a school was opened, and both parents and children were deeply interested in its success. It was attended by 29 scholars between the ages of 5 and 18, the average attendance being 95 per cent. All learned the alphabet, and many to read simple sentences. But great difficulty was experienced in enabling them to understand the meaning, their isolated condition being unfavorable to the development of ideas, and it was found ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 25 that the only effective method was object teaching, for which there existed a scant supply of material. The school had to be closed in April, and owing to the difficulty of many attending during the sealing season it had not been resumed. At the time of my leaving, August 15, a large building was being fitted expressly for the school and a place for the people to assemble. The past winter has been the most severe in long-continued cold weather in the memory of theoldest inhabitants of the island. On the 5th of February large bodies of drift ice came down from the north, enveloping the island on all sides, and did not finally disappear until May, a period of ninety days. Although no considerable ice formed along the shores of the island, huge sheets of this drift ice, 3 or 4 feet thick, were pushed by the tide high on the rocks, and remained, obstructing the rookeries, until late in June before melting. Owing to this cause the seals were a month later than usual in landing, and many landed in a crippled condition, exhibiting evidence of having suffered injury in working through the large bodies of ice to the south of the island. May 15,1871, the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander arrived from San Francisco, having on board the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company and a number of employees to reside permanently on the island. The steamer had also as passengers the Busso-Greek bishop from San Francisco, with his attendants, making a parochial visit and to minister to the spiritual wants of the people. The steamer having touched at St. George, in accordance with verbal orders given him by me Special Agent Samuel Falconer came to confer with me in regard to the affairs of that island. The steamer brought all needful supplies and material for conducting the business of taking seal skins. These were landed and a small number of seal skins shipped (3,448, as per certificate dated May 19,1871). The steamer sailed on the 19th for San Francisco. A small number of seals were taken for food dnring the month of May and the skins salted. June 1, the seals being present in sufficient numbers, the company commenced taking skins. This employed all the natives steadily, the working force of the island being just sufficient to perform the work in the given time. June 11 the company's bark Cyane arrived from San Francisco laden with lumber, wood, and salt for the island, There were several families residing on the island who came here in the employ of the former Bussian Fur Company from the island of Kadiak. At the time of the transfer of the Territory four of these contracted to work in the employ of Williams & Havens, of New London, Conn., to be returned by them to Kadiak at the end of the sealing season of 1869. It not being convenient for the agent of Williams & Havens to do this, they agreed with him to cancel said contract and received $100 each instead of the conveyance to Kadiak and have since resided on the island, sharing with the other natives in the labor and proceeds of the sealing business. As the bark Cyane was to return by way of Kadiak, and the agent gave them permission to take passage, four families availed themselves of it. These contained eight adults and five children. The bark having landed her supplies, sailed again on the 16th for San Francisco, via Unalaska and Kadiak, and the sealing was continued until July 31. July 31, the steamer Alexander arrived from San Francisco with supplies for the ensuing winter. After landing part of her cargo, on August 1 the steamer visited the island of St. George to land supplies and to 26 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. take on board skins. Stephen N. Buynitzky, acting under verbal orders from me, took passage on her for the purpose of conveying to Samuel Falconer a letter of appointment as special agent of the Treasury Department; also a letter of instructions from myself, a copy of which, with a copy of his report on the condition of that island, I herewith inclose. There are on the island a population of 370 natives, so called. These are about one-half pure Aleutian blood, the other half of Creole blood. In several the foreign element predominates. They have a well-organized system of government, under chiefs of their own selection, subject to removal at the will of the people whenever they choose. Those now acting have done so for three years, and are very efficient men. These exercise a kind of patriarchal supervision over the affairs of the whole people, but possess no power to enforce their authority beyond the expression of their will. This meets all their wants as a simple community, but there sometimes arise contingencies when this is insufficient. The proceeds of the sealing business are a common property, shared by all, and all are expected to participate in the labor. Sometimes, when debvering skins to ships, some are disposed to shirk their duty for apparently frivolous reasons. In such cases I have felt called on to exercise my authority. There is always a liability of differences arising between natives and the employees of the company which call for the exercise of judicial powers. These make it worth while to consider how far the resident officer should be empowered to act in cases where an appeal to the Department would require a year to get a decision. The population of St. Paul is 249; that of St. George 127. This is somewhat unequal in proportion to the labor and proceeds of the sealing business, St. Paul having two-thirds of the population with three-fourths of the labor and proceeds; but this will probably be equalized by the removal of some of the people from St. George to St. Paul. . The population of both islands—except the chiefs, who live in wooden houses of their own—are living in underground houses built of turf, containing three compartments—an outer one where, in an open space, the cooking is done, with blubber for fuel; a middle one, half workroom and half outhouse; an inner one, not larger than 10 by 12, lighted by a single sash. Not half of these have wooden floors or ceilings. Here, crowded together, without ventilation, to keep themselves warm as they best can by animal heat during long, tedious winters, sickness necessarily prevails, and without means to struggle against privation or for comfort, their average life is shortened, and their later years are full of pain and suffering, while full half the infants, for want of care, do not live six months. This is the condition where the experience of the military and civil officers and employees of the company demonstrates the climate to be especially favorable to robust health. I would most respectfully ask, in behalf of these people, that application be made to Congress for an appropriation to furnish material to build small, wooden houses above ground. There are native carpenters sufficiently skillful to do all the labor. All that is necessary is to furnish the material at the islands and place it in charge of the Government officer, who will see to its proper disposal and use. Such material would cost, at the island, $500 per house, and the number required would be, on St. Paul 40, and St. George 20. The company propose building such houses and allow the natives to live in them, but refuse to sell the lumber or houses to them, being averse to the natives acquiring any right or title to such property on the island. This, for obvious reasons, ought not to be. The natives are already more than sufficiently dependent on the company, and ought not to hold their houses at the will of the resident agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 27 Congress, by leasing their island and taxing its only industry, the seal fishery, so heavily as to preclude the company's being liberal, owe it to them to see that they have every reasonable comfort and are fully protected in their rights. It is doubtful whether, without the right of ownership in their houses, they can be induced to change their confirmed habits so as to secure the necessary conditions of cleanliness and comfort desirable for their better health. Some method might be adopted by which they might repay the outlay for their houses, as the proceeds of the seal fishery, $30,000 on St. Paul and $10,000 on St. George, annually paid by the company, is amply sufficient with proper economy for all the comforts and many of the conveniences of civilization. In my report to the Department dated October 15,1870, I had the honor of calling attention to certain exigencies existing under the new arrangement of affairs at the islands. One was that a suitable building be erected on each island for the accommodation of the Government officers, they being now dependent on the company, whose means are limited for their own employees. Another was that a physician be allowed for each island and paid by the Government, and that suitable buildings be erected for their accommodation. Should this be granted, I would suggest that one building be erected for both purposes, as less expensive. Still another was that an additional officer be allowed each island. This I deem important for the following reasons: The interests of the Government are too great to be left dependent on the health of a single officer, the great distance and infrequent communication rendering it liable that a whole year might elapse before the information could be transmitted and the want supplied. Another, and equally important, is that the nature of the business is such that the required knowledge necessary to keep the Government informed of its conditions in advance can only be obtained by a residence on the island at least one year and by careful observation comparing one year with another; nor can it be imparted to another -unless on the ground, and in the event of a change of officers the experience of the one leaving would be lost to the Government. The whole number of seals taken during the year 1869, as ascertained by actual count on their delivery in July, 1870, was— On St. Paul Island , 60,992 On St. George Island 24,909 Total 85,901 Seals Mlled during the year 1870. On St. Paul Island: From April 28 to July 1 3,988 July 1 to October 9 (salted) 6,449 Cut skins (not salted) 278 October 9 to November 30 (salted) 1,597 Cut skins (not salted) 202 Young seals killed for winter supply of food for natives 2,800 Total 15,314 On St. George Island: Previous to July 1 1,799 July 1 to October 10 4,987 October 10 to close of tbe season 473 Pups for winter supply 1,200 Total 8,459 Grand total for 1870 23,773 28 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Shins talcen during the present season, 1871, up to July SI. On St. Paul: May for native food 418 June 20,042 July 24 708 Cut skins rejected 335 Total | 45,503 St. George Island, as per report of Special Agent Samuel Falconer up to July 31. 17,000 Total on both islands up to July 31, 1871 62,503 Besides the above, 1 per cent should be allowed for loss by heating while driving and otherwise. This will cover all seals killed at the islands. During the interval between July 1, the date of the act authorizing the lease and its promulgation at the islands October 10, there was killed on St. Paul 6,449 and on St. George 4,987 animals for food for the natives. These were mostly 1-year-old seals, and their skins were not of prime value. Of these, there were reserved, in accordance with the plans stated in my report of July 14,1870, and salted on Government account on St. Paul 2,040 and on St. George 1,500 skins. These are the same mentioned in my report of May 19,1871, the necessary order for the shipment of which miscarried by mail, and I only received the certified coJ>y at the date of my leaving the island, when no opportunity occurred for shipping them, the steamer being loaded to her fullest capacity with skins belonging to her owners. The remainder of these skins are in the hands of the Alaska Commercial Company, and, not being worth the tax, are left on the islands. Skins damaged by cutting have always sold at half price in market, and the same rates have been paid for them at the salt houses. Since the leasing they, not being considered worth the tax, have been rejected by the company. This has resulted in no loss, as will be seen by reference to the foregoing statement. Formerly the average of cut skins equaled 6 per cent of the whole. Since their rejection the average has decreased to three-fourths of 1 per cent. About 6,000 gallons of oil have been rendered, at a cost of 25 cents per gallon by allowing the natives 6 cents per gallon for skinning and carrying the blubber to the place of* rendering—a compensation scarcely in proportion to the labor, as the saving of the oil doubles the skinning and carrying. The cost of rendering (25 cents) added to the tax (55 cents) makes a total of 80 cents per gallon at the island, while the market value is less than 50 cents. It must be obvious no company can afford to incur the expense necessary for carrying on a business involving such positive loss. In my opinion, no great revenue can be derived from taxing the oil, and as the natives are the parties most to be benefited by its saving by us, it affording an additional industry to their island, I would suggest that in place of a revenue tax there be established a regulation fixing a stipulated price, say 20 cents per gallon, to be paid by the company to the natives for all the oil shipped from the island. This would leave a margin sufficient to pay the cost of rendering and shipping. In this way about 50,000 gallons of oil may be obtained annually above or over what blubber is required by the natives for fuel. The proceeds of this would enable them to purchase wood or coal to warm their houses in winter, the blubber being entirely unfitted for that purpose, and is now burned in an outhouse for cooking only, the 60 cords of wood now annually distributed among them being insufficient for baking purposes. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 29 The breeding rookeries, so called, are the rocky shores selected by the old males for that purpose. They are of variable length, from one- eighth of a mile to 3 miles in length, and from 5 to 50 rods in width, separated from each other by intervals of sand beach from a few rods to 6 miles in length. The old males land early on these places and prevent any but females occupying them with themselves. All the other classes, with those selected for killing, occupy the uplands immediately in the rear of these. It is claimed by the natives that the seals return invariably the second year to their places of birth and, when not too often disturbed by driving, continue to do so. This is important, as will appear, and I have instituted experiments to determine the fact by having 100 male pups selected before I leave and marked by cutting off the right ear, on a rookery 1 mile north of the village, and a like number with the left ear, on the rookery to south of village. This has been done for two years, and next year the first will be old enough to be taken. The seals occupy the southeast and southwest shores of the island for a distance of 25 miles. For convenience and to save long driving three salt houses have been built, one at the village, one 5 miles west of that point, and one at the northeast point, 12 miles distant. It being more convenient to take and ship skins from the village, the tendency is to kill an undue proportion of the whole number taken from the island from the adjacent rookeries, which contain less than one-fourth of the number. To do this necessitates their being driven at too short intervals from the same places, so that those driven to the killing ground and allowed to return to the water as unfit for present use do not return to their old places, but shift to more distant parts of the islands. This has been the effect from the season of 1868, as over one-half the skins taken each year have been from these places. I would therefore suggest that a regulation be established requiring the seals to be taken from all the rookeries in such number as the size of the rookery bears to the whole number on the islands. The breeding males and females occupy the same ground from year to year without leaving their places until the end of July and no other classes mix with them. These have clearly defined boundaries entirely separate from the grounds occupied by the classes driven for killing, and are never disturbed by it. As these are the sources that produce the supply, and the age at which most of them are killed is 3 years, their condition will furnish a standard by which to estimate the product three years in advance. A careful comparison of their condition the present year (1871) with those of 1869 and 1870 shows a decrease in the number of females the present year equal to 10 per cent of the two former years, which showed a gradual increase. This might indicate a necessity for restricting the number to be taken, were it not that the excess of 1870 will compensate the deficiency for one year, but should two successive years of decrease follow it will be different. This decrease is the same on the rookeries where no seals have been taken since 1868 as on those that have been worked continually. Whatever may be the cause of this decrease I am sure it must be looked for outside the islands—a period of the year in which we have little or no positive knowledge of their habits. Sufficient search has been made for their winter abodes, with a view to taking their skins to prove they do not land in any considerable numbers on any known land. They begin to leave the islands early in October and by the middle of December have all left, and none are 30 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. seen again until April or May. A few hundred, mostly young pups, are taken by the Indians around Sitka, 1,200 miles east of the islands, during the month of December, and again in March on their way returning to the islands, and in February off the coast of British Columbia, but in such small numbers as to make no appreciable difference to the immense number that visit the islands annually. This is about all that is known positively of their winter habits. It is evident that sharks or other voracious fish prey on the young pups while in the water, from the fact that of more than a million pups annually leaving the islands not one-third return to them in the spring. The time of the arrival of the seals in the spring varies with the season from the middle of April to the middle of May, and they are present in sufficient numbers for taking their skins before the 1st of June. In such cases a discretionary power may be granted to the officer as the least interested party, but as this is the time when they are most easily disturbed, it should be done with caution. The new system may now be considered as fairly inaugurated, and although it has not been done without some friction on both sides, no serious differences have arisen, and it is now working harmoniously. The supplies have been abundant and of good.quality and sold in quantities desired, except sugar, which for reasons before stated has been restricted. All the conditions of the lease have been as fully complied with as the conditions of the situation permitted. The Alaska Commercial Company, by their previous establishment on the island and acquaintance with the business, have been able to meet these difficulties better than any other less favorably situated could have done; and in the suppression of intemperance and the introduction of sanitary measures I have had the hearty cooperation of the agent and employees of the company. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Bryant's Report, dated November 10,1871: Letter Bryant to Falconer. Headquarters Special Agency, St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 1, 1871. Sir : You are hereby instructed to see that the laws of the United States concerning the seal fishery under the contract with the Alaska Commercial Company are observed; that the natives are protected in their right, and in general you will perform all those acts which shall appear to be necessary for the interests of the United States in that island, and report all facts in connection therewith at these headquarters. Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Samuel Falconer, Esq., St, George Island. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 31 Inclosure with Bryant's Report dated November 10, 1871 Falconer. Report of Assistant Agent Special Agent's Office, St. George Island, August 3, 1871. Slr: I have the honor to report the arrival of the steamer Alexander at this island on the 2d instant, bringing a cargo of all needed supplies for the coming winter. Since the date of my last report, May 14,1871, the harmonious relations heretofore existing between the natives and the Government and company have continued uninterrupted, the natives having worked faithfully during the past two months in securing skins and provisions for their sustenance next winter, and I am happy to state that with the cooperation of the company's agent, Mr. Brown, I have succeeded in so far restricting the quantity of spirituous liquors brewed by them from their sugar and flour rations that no intoxication has been manifest. The number of skins secured to this date amount to about 19,000, of which some 17,000 of this year's catch and 3,000 of last year's, will be at present shipped per Alexander, as per certificates herewith inclosed. Please find also inclosed certificates for 20 cords wood turned over to the natives by the company for their use, in accordance with the terms of the lease, and for a full supply of salmon for gratuitous distribution during the winter. The meteorological record has been kept in accordance with your instructions, and returns are hereto appended showing an average temperature for the month of May, 38.32; June, 40.85, and July, 44.09. On the night of the 12th ultimo two sharp flashes of lightning were experienced, accompanied by thunder and heavy rain, and it was noticeable on the next morning the bachelor rookeries were nearly deserted, the seals having gone into the water. They, however, returned during the day. The school which was supported through last winter has been suspended for the sealing season, but will be again opened as soon as it shall seem profitable to do so. I am, respectfully, Samuel Falconer, Special Agent. Charles Bryant, Esq., Special Agent, Treasury Department, St. Paul Island. Report of Mr. S. JT. Buynitzky, of the Treasury Department. Island of St. Paul, August 10,1871. Sir : In pursuance of your instructions of June 28,1 took passage on the steamer Alexander, which left San Francisco on the 13th of July, and arrived here on the 31st. I immediately reported for duty to Capt. Charles Bryant, and was detailed by him on the following day to the island of St. George, where I remained five days, returning to St. Paul on the 6th instant. As Mr. Bryant has concluded to avail himself of the authority given him to return to Washington and to leave me in charge of the seal islands, I deem it my duty to lay before the Department such facts concerning the sealing business as seem to me to require an immediate modification of the law regulating the same. 32 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The first section of the act of July 1, 1870, makes it unlawful to kill any fur seals except in the months of June, July, September, and October. This restriction has evidently no other object than to prevent any killing of seals at a time when the. hunting of these animals might be prejudicial to the existence of the seal rookeries, but, probably owing to inaccurate information at the disposal of the framers of the bill, the limits of time are erroneously defined. The beginning of the hunting season ought to be determined by the condition of the rookeries at each season -, that is, no sealing should be allowed before the rookeries are definitely settled, which at some seasons happens to be the case in the month of June, but mostly in May. As to the limitation at the end of the season, I can not discover any practical reason therefor. The fact is that the security of the rookeries depends mainly on the manner of hunting, and but partially on the time. All restrictions as to time, while failing to attain the object in view, have proven prejudicial to the successful carrying on of the sealing business, and entailed an unnecessary loss upon the Treasury and a grievous hardship upon the native population of the islands. Owing to the enormous taxation falling in the shape of rental and of tax proper upon the sealing business under the present lease with the Alaska Commercial Company, the mode of carrying on the same had to undergo a radical change. Formerly every skin was worth taking; at present none but choice furs will pay. Hence the necessity of beginning the hunting as early as possible, taking very few skins in July, none in August, few in September and first half of October, and most at the end of the season, when the furs which are very poor during the summer months have become rich again for the winter, as is generally the case with all fur-bearing animals. The number of working days being necessarily limited at any season by the peculiar requirements of the seal hunting with respect to weather and direction of winds, and the number of seals to be taken from any one drove extremely restricted by the exigencies of the market and the difficulty in selecting the proper victims, it is next to impossible to prepare a large number of good skins within the limits of time prescribed by the law without exhausting the working energies of the population. In addition to the disadvantages above stated, a great difficulty arises from the change which has occurred in the tone of the foreign market since the cession of Alaska to the United States. The Bussian company used to contract with the London firms for a certain number of seal skins of average quality to be delivered on payment of a certain sum in bulk. At present the seal skins are taken in London at so much apiece, according to their size and the quality of the fur, so that seal skins have been—for instance, last year—sold in London in a dozen categories, ranging in price from 55 down to 7 shillings apiece, but few skins being classified in the higher and the greatest number in the lower categories. Thus, the average price obtained last year did not amount to 20 shillings per skin. Under the existing circumstances it is evident that the sealing business can not be successfully carried on without the utmost exertion on the part of the officers of the Government and the agents of the company, for the establishment of this new system certainly interferes with all former notions and habits of the natives and creates the necessity of a training altogether novel to them. However successful may be such training, no completely satisfactory results may be attained without the immediate removal of the existing restrictions as to the time of sealing. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 33 Coming to the result of this year's season, I take pleasure in stating, to the honor of all parties concerned, that they have done better than might have been expected under the difficulties described above, the number of skins reported for tax this season being over 60,000. I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient servant, Stephen N. Buynitzky, Clerk. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent Bryant; inclosing shipping receipts. Headquarters Special Agency, St. Paul Island, August 11,1871. Sir : I have the honor herewith to transmit a copy of certificate to collector of customs at San Francisco of shipment of fur seal skins per steamer of this date. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Special Agent Bryanfs letter of August 11,1871. Office Special Agency, St, Paul Island, August 11,1871, I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped per steamer Alexander, for San Francisco from St. Paul Island, 41,080 fur-seal skins of this year's catch and 300 fur-seal skins, in bundles, taken April 28,1870. Charles Bryant, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Inclosure with Special Agent Bryant's letter of August 11,1871. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 9, 1872. This certifies that I have shipped on board Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, consigned to the collector of customs, San Francisco, 3,541 fur-seal skins, the property of the United States. Charles Bryant, Agent in Charge Seal Islands, H. Doc. 92 3 34 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. &•' I'; ..- . >|f-ma' '::•:• 1872. i . Special Agent Bryant; inclosing shipping receipts. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 9,1872. Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith copies of certificates for the shipment of fur-seal skins from the seal islands, Alaska Territory, by the Alaska Commercial Company, of this year's catch up to date. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge Seal Islands. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure ivith Special Agent Bryant's letter of September 9, 1872. Office of Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, August 20, 1872. This is to certify that the Alaska Commercial Company have this day shipped on board their steamer Alexander, 21,000 fur-seal skins for transshipment at Unalaska to San Francisco by the bark Cyane or any one of the company's vessels, these being all of this year's catch. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge Seal Islands. Inclosure with Special Agent Bryants letter of September 9,1872. Office Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, September 9,1872. This is to certify that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board of its steamer Alexander, for San Francisco direct, 49,551 fur-seal skins, and included in this number are 7 casks of sample skins marked "Fur-seal skins, London," and numbered as follows: Cask No. 1, containing 25 skins, not bundled; cask No. 2, containing 30 skins, bundled; cask No. 3, containing 24 skins, not bundled; cask No. 4, containing 36 skins, bundled; cask No. 5, containing 32 skins, bundled; cask No. 6, containing 36 skins, bundled; cask No. 7, containing 36 skins, bundled. And further this is also to certify that the Alexander has on board, shipped at St. George Island, as per certificate of Assistant Agent Falconer, a copy of which is herewith inclosed, 8,877 fur-seal skins, the balance, 16,123, as per said certificate, having been previously shipped to Unalaska for transshipment to San Francisco, together with 21,000 from this (St. Paul) Island, as per certificate dated August 20,1872, all of this year's catch. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge Seal Islands. Assistant Agent Palconer; shipping receipt, quota of 1872. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, August 27,1872. This is to certify that there has been shipped this day, on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, 8,877 fur-seal skins, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 35 the balance, 16,123, having been shipped by the company's vessels to Unalaska a few days ago. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. 1872. Special Agent Bryant: Annual Report for 1872. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 5, 1872. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the affairs of the seal islands since my last, dated May 7,1872: July 12, the Alaska Commercial Company's steam schooner R. M. Hutchinson arrived at this island, having on board Father Nickoli, a priest of the Busso-Greek Church, who administered to the spiritual wants of the people and married four couples. The schooner sailed again on the 29th for St. George with Father Nickoli on board. August 15, the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander arrived, laden with supplies for this island, having previously touched at St. George on her way hither and landed supplies, together with the frame and material for the house to be erected for the use of the Government officers on that island. The Alexander brought, as employees of the company to reside permanently on the island, William Kapres, esq., as general agent of the company in place of Dr. H. H. Mclntyre, who returns to San Francisco, and E. 0. Church as a school-teacher. The steamer also brought to reside on the island Mr. C. P. Fish, esq., of the United States Signal Corps, for the purpose of establishing a signal station on this island. There being more than a full load of skins for the steamer ready for shipment, after discharging her cargo the steamer took on board from this (St. Paul) island 21,000 and from St. George Island 16,123 fur-seal skins and sailed on the 20th for Unalaska, to store them for transshipment from there on some other of the company's vessels to San Francisco. August 25, the Alaska.Commercial Company's bark Cyane arrived here from San Francisco, laden with salt, coal, and merchandise for the island, having on board a,s freight the frame and material for the house to be erected on this island for the use of the Government officers. August 29, the steamer Alexander returned from Unalaska, laden with salt and coal. September 2, the bark Cyane, having landed her supplies for this island, sailed for St. George, taking on board as passengers to Unalaska two native families, who wished to reside there; also, two other natives, who go to San Francisco to remain during the winter and return in spring. In my last report, of May 7, 1872, I stated some new facts in regard to the relative difference of value between seal skins taken in June and July and those taken in' September and October, owing to their shedding their overhair in the later season. There were taken during the month of June and July, 1871, on St. Paul Island 45,000 and on St. George Island 19,000 fur-seal skins; the remaining portion of the 100,000 to be taken that year were left for the months of September and October. It was found that about the middle of August the seals began to shed their overhair; the new covering appearing as short, black bristles in the fur injures the skin for manufacturing. In this condition they are called stagey. This condition continues until late in October. 36 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. This would be too late to take the requsite number within the time prescribed by law, so that in order to secure them they had to be taken in this stagey condition and were not of prime value. In my opinion there.exists no necessity for the restriction of the taking of skins after October or during the period they remain on the islands before leaving for the winter. The seals appear to be governed by the weather somewhat in the time of their arrival in the spring. They were first reported May 5 of the present season, but light snows being frequent kept the breeding grounds covered, so that they landed very slowly. The first drive for food was made May 15, obtaining 200 animals, but they were not present in sufficient numbers to furnish continuous occupation in taking them for their skins until June 10. In view of their depreciation in value by shedding late in the season, it was desirable to take as many as possible during the months of June and July, therefore all available native labor was devoted to this object, and the result was that on St. Paul Island there were taken up to July 27, 70,000 skins, the remaining 5,000 being left for the skins of animals killed by the natives for food in the months of October and November; at the same time there were taken, as per report of Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer, in charge St. George Island, 25,000 skins, thus making a total of 95,000 on both islands up to the end of July, 1872. The present season the beach masters or breeding bulls have landed in excellent health aud condition and in greater numbers, occupying much larger grounds than ever before. The females also come in sufficiently increased numbers to occupy all the ground thus mapped out, and the number of young seals produced greatly exceeds any former year. The weather, although excessively foggy and disagreeable to the residents of the island, has been especially favorable to the young seals. It is also observable that a larger number of yearlings or last year's pups than usual have returned to the island the present season. There is now only a deficiency of one class, that of the 4 and 5 year old seals. This is clearly traceable to the following causes: During the season of 1868 there were killed on both islands 220,000 animals for their skins, and in the season of 1869 85,000. At that time the relative value of the sizes or ages of the skins was not understood, and all the skins being paid for at the same price, the natives, who were quick to perceive the difference between taking a small skin and a large one and carrying it to the salt houses, killed all the yearlings they could. These were the products of 1867 and 1868. These were sent forward in 1870 to market and overstocked it with small skins. This created a demand for larger skins, and the Alaska Commercial Company instructed their agents to take all the large skins possible in 1871. This was done, and as many 4 and 5 year-old seals as could be were taken. This again fell on the already diminished product of 1867 and 1868. When these were sent to market they were found too old, and now, the proper medium being ascertained, the seals will be selected accordingly. It will be seen by reference to my report of November 30,1869, containing a detailed description of the habits of these animals, that this class of 4 and 5 year old seals perforin an important service along the shores during the season of incubation, but as there was already existing an excess of old bulls from former years, the detriment to the rookeries from the absence of this class, growing out of the excessive killing of 1868, can work no serious injury to the rookeries for these two years, and at that time they will be supplied from the growing seals. Under the present system the rookeries show a steady increase, that warrants ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 37 the assertion that by 1874 an addition of 30,000 skins may be added to the number now taken annually. The civil affairs of the natives have been administered by their chiefs with very little necessity for my assistance. There has been considerable drunkenness from the use of quas, or native beer, manufactured by themselves from fermenting sugar and flour together, and so fond are some of this artificial excitement that they save all that is sold for their families to use in tea or coffee until enough is obtained for a good drunk, and then indulge in it, and in two cases it has been necessary to confine the parties until sober to prevent them doing injury to their families or others. That they have worked well and faithfully the takin g of the 70,000 skins in so short a time bears evidence. The supplies have been of good quality and in sufficient quantity, and the prices reasonable. The school has been discontinued during the sealing season, but will be resumed again as soon as the vessels are gone. The company last year built six wooden dwelling houses above ground for the natives. These have not proved wholly a success for comfort and convenience, as was hoped. Six more are laid out and partially completed on an improved plan, based on last year's experience, which promise to attain more fully the object desired. The affairs of the island of St. George are in an equally prosperous condition, for the details of which I beg leave to refer to a copy of the report of Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer, in charge, inclosed herewith. I desire to bear witness to the able manner in which all my assistants have aided in forwarding my plans for the comfort and improvement of the natives. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge Seal Islands. Hon. George S. Boutwell, Secretary of the Treasury, Report of Assistant Agent Falconer: Inclosure with Bryant's Annual Report for 1872. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, , St. George Island, August 15, 1872. Sir : I have the honor to report the arrival of the company's steamer Alexander on the 11th instant, bringing Mr. Adams, who will relieve Mr. Brown, the present agent of the company, and Dr. Meaney, the newly appointed physician for the island, together with a full cargo of merchandise for the station and the material for the Government house. On the 29th ultimo the company's steamer H. M. Hutchinson touched here, having on board the Eev. Father Nickoli, a priest of the Busso Greek Church of the diocese of San Francisco, who attended to the spiritual wants of the people and performed the marriage ceremony for eight couples. The company commenced driving seals for their skins on the 3d of June last and discontinued on July 27, having secured 25,000, the full number stipulated in the lease for the year 1872. Last season only 19,077 skins were secured, as was reported, when it was the intention of the company to have taken their full number. 38 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. This, however, tuey were unable to do on account of the skins being stagey in the last part of the season, and for this reason the full complement has been secured in June and July. In reference to the appearance of the rookeries, I find that the seals are very numerous, much more so than they were last year, especially the old males and young bachelors, the class that is driven for their skins. In corroboration of this fact, I saw large numbers haul up at the foot of the high cliffs, apart and distinct from all the other rookeries, where they were never known to frequent before. From these places I deemed it advisable to have them driven away, as they could not be taken if allowed to remain. Why they should resort to places of this kind is more than I can conceive if it is not that they are prevented to some extent from landing on their usual places by the numerous old males that constantly guard the shore line. The number of breeding rookeries on the island is four, viz, North, East, Starry Athille, and Zapeny. They, too, seem to be in a flourishing condition this year, as their breeding grounds are enlarged to some extent. Their positions on the islands are as follows: Zapeny is on the southwest side, and about 5 miles from the village; Starry Athille is on the north side, 2 miles from the village; North rookery is also on the same side, and not more than 1 mile from town, and East rookery is on the northeast side, and about 2 miles .from town. The following figures will show the number of drives made from each of those places, also the number of skins obtained from each rookery during the season: Rookery. Number of drives. Number of skins. North 16 16 14 11 4,818 East 9,714 Starry Athille 5,274 5,194 Tntnl 25, 000 From the last-mentioned rookery two drives of 2,583 were made to the killing ground near the village, the balance being salted at that place on the rookery. A larger number of skins would have been secured this year had there been sufficient salt on hand with which to cure them. There has been, however, a salt house recently erected, which will contain all the skins taken at that place in future. The number of seals lost from overheating while driving was very small, not more than one in a thousand. I would also mention that great care has been taken not to molest nor disturb the breeding rookeries at any time during the season, and the same amount of precaution has been used after arriving on the field not to kill any that appeared to be the slightest damaged. As you will observe, out of the entire number taken this year only 164 have been rejected by the company on account of accidental cuts in skinning. This is considerably less than 1 per cent. 1 would also state that through the course of the season a few seals were killed in which were found buckshot and rifle balls. It would appear that they had been down about the coast of British Columbia or somewhere east of Sitka, as the natives on the entire Aleutian chain use no other weapons than the spear in killing seals. I also noticed a few this season apparently about 3 years old with the tip of the right ear off. Probably they were some of those clipped by your direction on ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 39 St. Paul two years ago, as no experiment of this kind had ever been tried on this island. Their arrival at the islands this spring was on the 6th of May, nearly the same time as last year, and on the following day I collected and took charge of all firearms belonging to the natives, as I did the year before. This I found to be necessary for the reason that there are two fresh-water ponds within gunshot of a like number of breeding rookeries where numerous flocks of wild fowl constantly frequent, and the temptation is so great that they can not resist shooting if allowed to retain their arms. The prevention of the use of firearms during the sealing season, together, with other precautions taken concerning the rookeries, is, in my opinion, the cause of the increase of seals on the island during the past two years. Mr. Lessen, your assistant, joined me early in May last and has ably assisted me in the discharge of the duties of the island since that time. The general health of the island has continued good. There has been one birth and one death since the date of my last report. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. Charles Bryant, Esq., Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. 1873. Special Agent Bryant: Annual Report for 1873. Fairhaven, Mass., September 30, 1873. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the condition of the fur seals and the general affairs of the seal islands since my last, dated September 9, 1872. At that time there had been taken and shipped from St. Paul Island, of the quota of 1872,71,070 fur-seal skins, the balance of the quota being left to be supplied from the skins of animals necessarily killed for food for the natives. Of this balance were shipped, as per certificate dated June 2,1873,3,906 fur-seal skins, making a total of skins shipped from St. Paul Island of the catch of 1872 of 74,976; so the account for seals taken stands as follows: Seals taken by the Alaska Commercial Company for their skins. For the month of— June July October Seals taken for. native food May August September October November December Total Number of seals killed. 36,068 33, 714 3,294 73,076 687 504 345 801 753 538 76,704 Skins salted. 35,976 33, 600 3,199 Condemned as valueless. 72, 775 687 489 117 774 401 457 75, 700 92 114 95 301 15 a 228 27 352 81 1,004 a Stagey Of these, 74,976 were shipped as above stated, the balance of 724 skins remaining over to be counted on the quota of 1873. 40 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Besides the above, there were taken in November 5,121 young male seals as a supply of seal flesh for winter food for the natives. This makes the whole number of seals killed on St. Paul Island during the year 1872 81,825. This gave 70 animals per family, with an average weight of flesh when dressed of 9 pounds, or 630 pounds per family, the usual supply. The skins of these have no commercial value. There were taken at the same time on the island of St. George by the Alaska Commercial Company and by the natives for food 25,164 seals. Of these, 25,000 were salted, the balance of 164 were rejected as damaged by cutting or otherwise. All of those salted were shipped in September, 1872. Besides, there were killed -for a supply of food for winter use for the inhabitants 2,090 young male seals. This gives a total for seals of all classes killed on St. George during the year 1872 of 27,254. Some changes are observable in the habits of the seals, growing out of the present system of killing 3, 4, and 5 year olds instead of 2, 3, and 4, as formerly, it having been ascertained that these sizes are of greatest value in market. There is a much smaller number of 5-year-olds seen swimming along the shore of the breeding rookeries during the period of copulation and more of the young females maturing are seen to pass up through the rookeries to the old males always gathered there. Where formerly the shore had been occupied in short sections with open spaces between, through which the young males passed to the uplands to lie down, these spaces have been filled by the addition of the annually increasing number of females maturing until these spaces have become closed and the rookeries form a continuous line along the shore, thus obliging the young seals to seek new resting places farther on, and where they accumulate in larger numbers and wider distances from the breeding places. This is rather an advantage than otherwise, as it facilitates the gathering them for killing with less liability to disturb the breeding seals. It was also observable that a much larger number of 1-year-old seals arrived on the island during July and August, as if the season had been more favorable for them while absent during the winter and the destruction of them less than usual. The seals began to leave the island in the latter part of September, and on the 27th of December had all left for the winter. The winter of 1872-73 was unusually cold and severe, the sea freezing around the island in February, and continued frozen until the 23d of May. This delayed the arrival of the seals at the island ten or fifteen days later than usual. The first seals were reported near the island on the 9th of May. The first drive for fresh food for the people was made May 23, when by driving from three places 297 seals were obtained. From that time they continued to increase, so that on June 3 the Alaska Commercial Company commenced taking them for their skins. At that time I estimated their number equal to what it usually is at twelve days earlier in former years or that they were twelve days behind their usual time. The females began to arrive June 9, and no change in their habits or movements was. observable except their increased numbers, from the annually maturing females, which I estimate at 5 per cent a year, or 15 per cent since 187D, the date of the lease. The Alaska Commercial Company made their first drive for the taking of skins June 2 and continued until July 23, having taken in all 74,397 seals; of these 73,884 were salted, 361 were spoiled by being cut in skinning, 152 were damaged by heating on the field before they could ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 41 be skinned. The account of seals killed up to August 1,1873, stands as follows: Taken by the Alaska Commercial Company- June July Total For native food in May. Left over from 1872 Grand total. Number killed. 38,070 36,327 74, 397 297 74, 694 Salted. 37, 732 36,152 Damaged by cutting. 73, 884 284 724 74,892 338 175 513 13 526 Of the above there were shipped, as per certificates to the collector of customs at San Francisco, copies of which are already deposited with the Department, as follows; July 14, 32,076; August 8, 5,100; August 9, 37,804; total, 74,980, a difference of 88 in excess appearing in counting the skins from the salt houses for shipment over the account as rendered on their being taken. There has been shipped from St. George Island, of the quota of 1873, as per certificates dated July 16, 5,286; August 10,19,464; a total of 24,750. Copies of these certificates have been already filed with the Department. A detailed report of the seals damaged or rejected has not yet been received. The same conditions in regard to the changes in their habits growing out of the established system of killing older seals were observable as noted last year. When the seal islands were visited by myself and Special Agent H. H. Mclntyre, in the season of 1869, there was no opportunity afforded for either of us to visit St. George Island to ascertain by actual observation its condition and proportion as regarded number of seals as compared with St. Paul. From the best sources of information then obtainable it was believed to contain from one-third to one- half as many as St. Paul, and on this information the number of seals to be taken annually was fixed at 25,000, and St. Paul at 75,000. It is now ascertained that the number of seals annually breeding on St. George is less than one-eighth of the number on St. Paul, and that the island of St. George can not be relied on to furnish the established quota of 25,000 skins annually of the desired size and quality to be of prime value, and to obtain the requisite number the past seasons it has been necessary to take seals too small for first-class skins. I therefore recommend that the number to be taken annually on the island of St. George be limited to 15,000. And in order that this may work no hardship to the people of St. George by depriving them of a part of their necessary support, I suggest that it be recommended to Congress to amend the act limiting the number to be taken on the island of St. Paul to 75,000 annually, so as to allow an addition of 10,000 to the quota of that island, which is amply supplied to yield the requisite number, and thus a portion of the population of the island of St. George may remove to the island of St. Paul temporarily during the sealing season, or permanently as they choose. In my report dated November 10,1871, I stated that I had caused a number of young male seals to be marked by cutting their ears. This was done to determine whether as a rule they returned to the rookery where they were born, as was claimed by the natives. This was done in 1870, and the present year they were 42 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. old enough to be taken for their skins; 6 out of 100 thus marked have been taken, 2 on the island of St. George and 4 on the island of St. Paul, and none of these were found on the same rookery where they were marked. This would go to prove that they are not governed by any special instinct to return to the exact place of their birth. This also furnishes some evidence of the percentage of seals that live to grow up. There yet exists but little information of their haunts or habits while absent from the islands. That they have numerous and powerful enemies is apparent by the great disproportion between the number that leave the islands at 4 months old and those that return again at 1 year of age. During the fall months, while the young seals are leaving the islands, schools of a small species of the whale (known among whalemen as the killer, from its sometimes attacking and killing the right whale) are seen in the vicinity of the islands, often apparently chasing the seals, and in one instance, while so doing, one ran into shoal water, was killed, and two seals were found in its stomach. From the most careful observation, extending over five seasons of sealing, I can not estimate the number of young seals that return the first year after birth to be over 30 per cent of the product, and that were no seals taken for their skins not over 10 or 12 per cent would live to the age of 5 years. Thus it is seen that the older the class of seals taken for their skins, the smaller the supply from which to take them. The breeding rookeries during the breeding season have a fixed and permanent character. They begin to fill at the water line and fill in equal numbers in a given space, extending their boundaries no farther than can be so filled, so that by carefully noting the boundaries from year to year an approximate estimate can be made of the ratio of increase by the addition of the young females maturing annually. These as compared with their area in 1870 now show an exj>ansion equal to 15 per cent in three years, or an annual increase of 5 per cent since the date of the lease. The full-grown males that do not find room on the breeding places gather as near as possible, to await for opportunities to supersede the weak and wounded while fighting for the possession of the females. Here the proportion their numbers bear to the necessities for breeding purposes can be readily estimated, and of this class for breeding purposes there is a full supply. The classes driven for their skins during the sealing season are too often disturbed to afford opportunity for estimating their numbers. But after the sealing is all done, and the full quota taken for the year, we know what remains as a future supply. In a few days they settle quietly on their resting places and can then be fairly estimated. On St. Paul Island there is evidence of a steady increase that exceeds the demand to fill the quota for that island, while on St. George, as before stated, the supply falls snort of the number necessary to furnish large- sized skins. All other conditions appear to be the same on St. George as on St. Paul, the females annually increasing in numbers, showing it to be only necessary to reduce the number of males taken for their skins to afford the necessary complement for breeding purposes. Thus maybe summed up the general condition of the fur seals at the seal islands, after three years' practical application of the present established system for their management. The number of breeding females has increased 15 per cent, while 100,000 males have been taken annually for their skins, and there is still left a surplus of males required for breeding purposes. The general affairs of the natives have been administered by chiefs of their own selection and in accordance with their former customs, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 43 with only such slight changes as the new conditions required, it being my policy to accustom them to rely on themselves in all matters that concern only themselves. Such incidents as seem worthy of note follow in their regular sequence. On the departure of the steamer Alexander for San Francisco, September 9,1872, 3 families and 7 unmarried parties, 17 persons in all, availed themselves of the privilege accorded them by the Alaska Commercial Company of a free passage on their vessels to and from the islands, to remove temporarily for the winter to Unalaska, intending to return to St. Paul again in the spring. With the departure of the steamer ended the sealing, and during the months of October, November, and December the natives were employed in work of grading and building the house erected for the use of Treasury agents and six other houses that were erected for the use of the natives by the Alaska Commercial Company. In November, the weather being sufficiently cold for the purpose, the necessary supply of seal flesh and blubber for winter use of the natives was secured and preserved by either salting or freezing. December 20,1872, in accordance with a regulation adopted by themselves, the natives made their annual division of the fund derived from the labor of taking the fur-seal and sea-lion skins, which amounted to $30,637.97. The same rules are observed as under the former Kussian company, they arranging themselves into four classes. Those who are most expert in skinning seals and otherwise good citizens constitute th ' first class, which contained 34 men; those who failed to come quite up to this standard constitute the second class, 23 men; those more idle and lazy, the third class, 4 men; while those sick and working irregularly, together with boys just learning to take seals, constitute a fourth class, numbering 10 men. It is always practicable to rise by merit from the lower to the higher classes. In this division the second class get 90 per cent of the first, the third class 80 per cent, and the fourth 70 per cent. To these is added one first-class share for the acting priest and two first-class shares set aside to create a fund to pay for a new church; in all, 74 shares. This gives as a first-class share, $451.22; second class share, $405.09; third class share, $360.97; fourth class share, $315.85. The same rules are observed on St. George Island in classification, but a given number of" skins are set apart according to classes for which each man is paid for taking: First class, 17 men, 971 skins, at 40 cents, $388.40; second class, 2 men, 935 skins, at 40 cents, $374; third class, 7 men, 821 skins, at 40 cents, $328.40; fourth class, 3 men, 400 skins, at 40 cents, $160. It will be seen by comparing the amount of the shares on both islands that St. George Island has already a larger population in proportion to the amount of skins taken and money received for them than St. Paul, therefore it will be necessary on diminishing the present quota of St. George to provide lor the removal of a part of the population to St. Paul. The census taken January 1, 1873, on St. Paul Island gives the number of the native inhabitants on the island 218. To these should be added the 17 now absent and properly to be reckoned as belonging to the island, making in all 235, showing a decrease since 1870 of 12 persons. These are divided as follows: Males, 114; females, 121. The oldest person was a female aged fifty-eight years; she has since deceased, leaving the oldest native now living fifty-six. There were during the year previous 4 marriages, 10 births, and 12 deaths, the mortality being greatest among young children, the average life of deceased being 7 i II 44 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. years and 4 months; average length of life of those now living, 22 years and 11 months. It will be seen that the severity of the climate is not favorable to longevity. During the winter and spring following there has been, up to August 1, 2 births and 12 deaths, mostly from consumption. A schoolhouse was fitted up and properly constructed and a school commenced October 2 and continued eight months, but on account of a prejudice among the people who have a fear that in learning English their children will forget their Eussian and weaken their attachment to their church only 7 attended regularly. Under the assiduous care of the teacher these made very commendable progress. There were at the same time three classes taught by natives, two in Eussian and one in Aleut; in all, 17 scholars attended schools of all kinds. Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer reports the same difficulties existing on the island of St. George in regard to securing attendance at school. (See copies of his report inclosed herewith.) The 60 tons of coal accepted in lieu of 60 cords of wood for gratuitous distribution was divided according to the population, 40 tons being received at St. Paul and 20 tons landed on St. George. It was stored until the severity of the weather rendered its use necessary, in December, 1872, when it was distributed hy the chiefs in weekly rations, and lasted until March 1,1873, after which the supply on hand by the Alaska Commercial Company for sale lasted until May. The store was well supplied with dry goods and provisions of good quality and sold at low prices and in such quantities as desired, except the article of sugar, the sale of which was limited to one half pound per person per week. This was necessary to prevent as much as possible the manufacture of quas, or native beer, and the drunkenness produced by its use, and it is believed that during the holy days very little of the small quantity sold was used for tea, being- saved in small parcels until sufficient had accumulated to brew into beer. The ice pack that completely inclosed the island in February remained until Ma.y 23, when it broke up and drifted to southwest, rendering it for the first time possible for a vessel to approach the island. The steamer Alexander arrived May 28, bringing mails, etc., from San Francisco, having on board the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company and a number of employees of the company to carry on the sealing. The steamer also brought as passengers from Unalaska the men that belong to the island who took passage to that place in September, 1872, to winter there. The steamer also brought two carpenters from San Francisco to frame and build a church for the natives, the people of both St. Paul and St. George having last year agreed with the Alaska Commercial Company to furnish the materials and a part of the labor for this rpurpose, to pay for which a fund nearly sufficient has been already accumulated by setting aside for that object two first-class shares of the seal fund annually. The materials have since then been landed on the island, and the church on St. Paul has been raised and boarded and will be completed before another year; that on St. George will be built during the ensuing winter. The steamers, having finished unloading and taken ou board the balance of skins left on the island to fill the quota of 1872, again sailed for Unalaska June 2 to reload at that place with lumber, coal, salt, and stores for the use of the islands, she being employed to ply between that place and the seal islands until the end of the sealing season. Immediately after the departure of the steamer the sealing commenced, and all the natives of the islands worked continuously, Sunday ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 45 excepted, until it was finished, July 23. Eight natives from Unalaska were brought up to assist in unloading vessels and do the other work of the company while the sealing lasted. An attempt was made on June 11 by the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company to induce the chiefs to adopt as a native, to share in the sealing and its profits, an employee of the company, a Spanish Creole, a native of the Ladrones Islands. This being contrary to the formerly established law of the Eussians, and the principle always kept in view in all legislation that to the natives of the island belong the privilege of doing the labor and receiving the pay, it was not permitted. In my report, dated November 10, 1871, I had the honor to recommend to the Secretary of the Treasury to ask for an appropriation by Congress for the purchase of lumber and material to enable the natives of the seal islands to build wooden houses for themselves. As the president of the Alaska Commercial Company voluntarily offered to build those houses and allow the natives to live in them free of rent, no further action was taken in the matter. There have since been built on St. Paul Island 13 such houses and so disposed of, and 3 more will be built this season. There are now 43 native families living in 35 turf huts. The proposition was made by the company to build a large number of these houses the present year instead of the church, but the people unanimously desired the church first. On St. George there have been built 3 houses for the use of natives, and 1 more to be built the present season. Arrangements were made with the general agent of the company before I left the islands by which the people will all be comfortably housed during the coming winter. A very large amount of the necessary supplies for the uses of the natives have been stored on the islands for the coming winter. Eighty tons of coal have been landed on St. Paul, but owing to the pressure of other matters the 40 tons for the natives had not yet been delivered to the Treasury agent in charge. The 20 tons for St. George Island have been delivered to the officer in charge and duly receipted for. The Alaska Commercial Company have this year introduced two labor-saving improvements on St. Paul Island of groat advantage to the people. The first is a moveable railway track placed on the beach, extending into deep water, so that boats come to and discharge their freight into cars to be hauled on shore. This saves the men from the necessity of wading through the water to land coal, salt, and other heavy articles on their shoulders as formerly. The other is the introduction of a horse and mules to haul the skins from the killing ground to the salt houses while sealing, instead of men bringing them on their shoulders. This improvement alone reduces the labor of taking the skins fully 25 per cent, and is the principal reason of the work being done so much earlier this year than before. It will be seen by the foregoing report that all the conditions of the lease have been fulfilled by the Alaska Commercial Company in a broad and generous spirit that entitles them to very high commendation. I inclose herewith copies of the reports Of Samuel Falconer, assistant Treasury agent in charge of St. George Island; and at the same time desire to express in the strongest manner my appreciation for the able manner in which he has administered the affairs of that island since the date of his taking charge, November 9, 1870. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent for Seal Islands, 46 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT. The seal skins being all cured and shipped on board steamer Alexan- der, she sailed for San Francisco September 9, to touch at St. George and take on board the remainder of the quota of that island. The general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company and employees, except the winter force of three men, returned to San Francisco; also, as passengers myself and family and Assistant Agent, H. W. Elliott and family. Samuel Falconer, esq., assistant treasury agent, remains in charge of St. George Island, acting under the following instructions: Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, April 24, 1872. Sir: You are hereby assigned for duty and placed in charge of Sfc. George Island. It will be your duty to see that the laws of the United States concerning the taking of far seals, under the lease with the Alaska Commercial Company, are observed; that the natives are protected in all their rights, and in general it will be your duty to perform all those acts which shall be for the interest of the United States and the comfort and improvement of the natives of the island. You are herewith furnished with a blank book to keep a record of the following objects, said book to be kept on the island for future reference. It will also be your duty to see that, when seals are driven for their skins, they are taken from all the different rookeries or families in such proportion as the size of the rookery bears to the whole number on the island. To keep a list of the number of seals killed, time of driving, and place from whence driven, with as near as may be the loss from overheating while driving or otherwise. To give special attention to the condition of the breeding rookeries as to their increase or otherwise from year to year, adding any observations pertinent to the object of their increased development that may suggest itself, and report the facts to me in detail as often as practicable. In addition, you are requested to give attention to the following itemss of observation and inquiry: (1) To prepare a list which will give the full name, sex, age, and condition, whether married or single or widowed, of every man, woman, and child now living on the island. (2) To prepare a list which will show the number of families and names of members living on the island. (3) Keep an accurate record of marriages, births, and deaths, and the causes of deaths as they occur. (4) Keep an accurate record of changes, removals, and arrivals of the natives to and from the island. (5) Keep a daily journal of the weather, together with any observations or remarks that are likely to be of future use to the general interests of the island. Assistant Agent Francis Lessen, a copy of whose instructions is herewith transmitted to you, will report to you, to assist in the performance of these duties. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Samuel Falconer, Esq., Assistant Treasury Agent. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, April 2d, 1872. Sir: Should Bishop John, of Sitka, wish to place a curate on the island of St. George to minister to the spiritual wants of the people, you will permit him to do so, admonishing him to confine himself strictly to his parochial duties. Respectfully, yours, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent, St. George Island. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 47 Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, August 1, 1873. Sir : You are hereby instructed that in all eases where skins are shipped from St. George Island on the vessels of the Alaska Commercial Company bound direct to San Francisco, without affording opportunity to communicate with this office, to give a certificate for the number so shipped to the master of said vessel on which the skins are so shipped; also forwarding two copies of the same to the Secretary of the Treasury and the collector of customs for San Francisco, one of these copies to be forwarded by the vessel taking the skins, and the duplicate copies should be sent the next opportunity occurring after, and report the same at this office at the earliest opportunity. You are further instructed not to permit any person or persons other than natives of the seal islands or directly in the employ of the Alaska Commercial Company, to reside on St. George Island without written permission from the Secretary of the Treasury. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Agent, in Charge of St. George Island. This last was necessary, as in some cases the vessels touch at St. George after leaving St. Paul on their way to San Francisco. The island of St. Paul is left in charge of Francis Lessen, esq., assistant Treasury agent, with instructions of which the following is a copy: Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, August 7, 1873. Sir : You are hereby placed temporarily in charge of the island of St. Paul, where it will be your duty to maintain the laws of the United States relating to the protection and preservation of the fur seals, the conditions of the lease with the Alaska Commercial Company, and the regulations of the Secretary of the Treasury under said lease for the taking of the same. It will be your duty to see that no. seals are killed except under the directions of the chiefs for the purpose and as provided in section 1 of the act entitled "An act to prevent the extermination of the fur-bearing animals in Alaska," approved July 1, 1870. .Yoti are further instructed not to permit any person or persons other than natives of the seal islands or directly in the employ of the Alaska Commercial Company, to land or reside on St. Paul except by written permission of the Secretary of the Treasury. However, should a curate of the Russian Orthodox Church, furnished with proper testimonials from Bishop John, of Sitka, wish to land and reside on the island to administer to the spiritual wants of the people, you are hereby authorized to permit him to do so, with the understanding, however, that in all civil matters he will be subject to the laws of the United States and the regulations of the Secretary of the Treasury which may be made in pursuance thereof. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Francis Lessen, Esq., Assistant Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent for Seal Islands. Hon. Wm. A. Biciiardson, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Bryant's Annual Report for 1873: Shipping Receipt. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, June 2,1873. Sir: This is to certify that the Alaska Commercial Company have this day shipped on board their steamer Alexander, for. transshipment on board bark Cyane, or other vessel, at Unalaska, for San Francisco, 48 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 3,906 fur-seal skins, all of last year's catch, being the balance of the quota of 1872. Yery respectfully, yours, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. Inclosure with Bryant's Annual Report for 1873: Shipping Receipt. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, July 14, 1873. Sir : I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board their steamer Alexander, from this island, for transshipment at Unalaska, on board the bark Cyane, for San Francisco, 32,076 fur-seal skins; also the same steamer has on board, shipped at St. George Island, July 7, 1873, 5,286 fur-seal skins, all of this year's catch. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco. Cal. Inclosure with Bryant's Annual Report for 1873: Report of Assistant Agent Falconer. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, May 27,1873. Sir : Having reported to you in detail in the month of August last concerning the fur-seal rookeries and the number of skins taken by the company leaves me but little to say on this subject at present, as nothing important transpired on the island since that time. The seals, however, continued in large numbers until late in autumn, a few remaining as late as the 19th of December. The number of pups and other seals taken by the natives for winter food at the close of the season foots up to about 2,000, the same as last year. The material for the Government house, landed here by the steamer Alexander in August last, was erected according to plans and specifications, with this exception, a rock foundation was placed underneath the building instead of posts, as the plan provided, there being good material near at hand for that purpose. I also found it necessary to erect an addition 9 feet square inclosing the back door, and furnishing a suitable place for water, coal, etc. The labor account for the erection of this building amounted to $377, as per vouchers herewith inclosed; also please find bills to the amount of $159.97 for necessary articles purchased for the use of the building; in all, $536.97. I may here state that the foundation when complete cost about $100 extra, thus making an additional expense, but as there were no posts on the island suitable for the purpose I was compelled to use the rock, which is, in my opinion, well worth the difference. The laborers were paid according as the work progressed, through m ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 49 the kindness of the Alaska Commercial Company, and at the same rate per diem as paid by said company when employed by them. Much difficulty was experienced during the erection from the continuous rains and general foul state of the weather. In consequence of this there was but one other building erected last season—by Mr. Adams, the company's agent, which was finely fitted up for a store, the old one having been converted into a schoolhouse. In September last the company's bark Cyane landed a large quantity of lumber for native houses, but their erection was prevented for like reasons already stated. In the month of October last the island was visited by a vast number of violent gales, causing buildings to shake to. the very ground. Fortunately no serious damage was done. The winter following was unusually rough and cold, the ice arriving as early as the 27th of January and remaining until May 21. The school was maintained through the winter, but has met with quite a drawback on the part of the children's parents, who entertain the idea that by acquiring an English education it will interfere with their religion. The absurdity of this has been.fully explained to them, and a few have consented to have their children attend, although not regularly, while others are still of the original belief. Thus, where no inducement is held forth by the children's parents, slow progress may be expected, though much pains have been taken by their teacher. Would it not be well to notify their bishop at Sitka in reference to this, who would be most likely to banish this erroneous idea from their minds entirely? The general health of the island is comparatively good, for the particulars of which I will refer you to Dr. Meany's report to the company's agent stationed on your island. The number of births since the month of August last is 4, and the number of deaths for the same period 2. The meteorological record for the island will be forwarded you in a separate inclosure. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent, in Charge of St. George Island. Inclosure with Bryant's Annual Report for 1873: Report of Assistant Agent Falconer. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, August 1, 1873. Sir: Owing to the lateness of last spring, the seals were about three weeks behind their usual time of arriving. This, however, would not appear anyways detrimental to them, as their breeding rookeries are in as good, if not better, condition this year than they have been at any one time since my arrival at the island, for I notice on some of the rookeries the passageways formerly occupied by young bachelors in hauling up on the back ground are completely blocked up by females, thus preventing the young seals from landing; and as the greater portion of this island's shore is composed of high cliffs, it renders it difficult for any great number to effect a landing. There are also numerous old males constantly guarding the shore line, which makes it still more difficult for the younger ones to work their way onto the background. Of this class there is a scarcity this year, and I am of the opinion it is in a great measure owing to above reasons. H. Doc. 92 4 50 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. From personal observations taken on your island last spring I am persuaded to believe that the proper number and ratio have not been assigned this island, for I do not hesitate in saying that St. Paul is better able to furnish 100,000 annually than St. George is 10,000. I would therefore suggest that the Secretary of the Treasury be informed of this, in order that the act relative to the number of fur seals taken on each.island might be amended, so that, say, 15,000 be taken on St. George Island and 85,000 on St. Paul. On the 4th of June the Alaska Commercial Company commenced driving seals for their skins, and during this month only 6,727 were obtained; but in July they came in greater numbers, and the company succeeded in securing their number, 25,000, by the 28th of this month. Should a warm dry season happen to set in, unfavorable for the hauling of seals, I feel confident that the number assigned this island could not be taken within the time considered best for the taking of skins. Thus the company would fall short of the desired number and the Government of the revenue, when in reality there are millions to be had on St. Paul. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. Capt. Chas. Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands, St. Paul. Special Agent Bryant: Supplemental Report for 1873. Fairhaven, Mass., December 4,1873. Sir: I have the honor to inform you that the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner William Sutton touched at the seal islands, Alaska, on the 4th of October last, for the purpose of taking to San Francisco Messrs. Mossman and Davidson, of that place, two carpenters, who had been employed in building the native church. By this mail I received a brief report from Francis Lessen, esq., assistant Treasury agent in charge of St. Paul Island, containing information of the condition of that island two months later than I left, August 9, the following of which is a copy: Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, October 4, 1873. Sir: I have the honor to submit to you a short report on the condition of this island. Since your departure, August 9, I have, according to your instructions, examined the near rookeries frequently, and on three occasions Mr. Adams, myself, and Bootrin, the chief, went in a whaleboat around the island to the western and northeastern point rookeries. I find our opinion on the unusual quantity of young seals (pups) and the good condition of the rookeries all agree. In regard to the health and comfort of the inhabitants, I have much pleasure to state that the management of the company's affairs under Mr. Adams, agent for the Alaska Commercial Company of this island, although short as yet, has proven to me sufficiently that he intends and does as much to improve their condition as circumstances permit. August 15 a division was made among the inhabitants of the earnings of this year's sealing, which amounted to $29,674.60, and was divided by the chief in my presence, as follows: 38 first-class shares at 100 per cent, $435.11 per share; 20 second-class shares at 90 per cent, $391.59 per share; 10 third-class shares at 80 per cent, $348.08 per share; 6 fourth-class shares at 70 per cent, $304.57 per share. On the arrival of the company's schooner William Sutton, October 4,1 received from the Alaska Commercial Company on account of the Government for distribution among the inhabitants of this island 27 barrels salted and 8,000 pounds dried fish, also 40 tons of coal, as provided for in the lease. The school for the education of the children was opened on the 1st of October, under the management of Mrs. Fish as teacher. Francis Lessen, Charles Bryant, Esq., Assistant Treasury Agent. Treasury Agent for Seal Islands. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 51 I learn that these have all been fully carried out and that they are now all comfortably housed. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent for Seal Islands. ' Hon. Wm. A. Bichardson, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent H. W. Elliott: Affairs of natives, Seal Islands. Washington, D. C, Gctober 31,1873. Sir : Three points connected with the general interests of the Government npon the Pribilof group of seal islands seem to call for your immediate personal consideration, and as such I take them from my general report and present them in this special communication to yourself. First. The annual waste of seal oil upon the Pribilof Islands. One hundred thousand seals are annually slaughtered, and the blubber suffered to rot and waste away upon the killing grounds, owing to the tax now levied by law upon every gallon of seal oil that may be made and exported to home ports. In this way over 40,000 gallons of excellent oil are annually lost to the aggregate of national wealth. As the matter now stands, no party can profitably render this seal blubber into oil and transport it 2,500 miles to San Francisco for market, and enter into successful competition there with the makers of lard, rape seed, and other oils, who have no such impost to support. I would therefore respectfully suggest that, as this waste of seal oil on the Pribilof Islands is a public loss, the tax now levied by law upon its shipment from the islands to home ports be abolished. Second. With regard to the inhabitants of the Pribilof Islands, who are the "natives," as specified in the law of the lease. This is a matter of great importance to these people, and to prevent confusion and illegal action in the future I earnestly urge upon you the propriety of settling this question beyond any possibility of evasion or misapprehension, for as the case now stands it is not clear or explicit as to what class of the classes of people now living upon the islands are u the natives" who are by law guaranteed, as they should be, the sole right of independent residence on the islands and participation in the sealing labor and reward. The people now living upon the islands may be divided into three classes, viz: (1) The natives, properly speaking, or those who have been born and raised upon these islands. (2) The people who were living there but not born at the time of the transfer of the Territory. (3) The people who were living and woridng upon the Pribilof Islands at the time of the granting of the present lease. If you decide exclusively in favor of the first class, you will deprive three-fonrths of the present population of the right to live and labor upon the islands. If you decide exclusively in favor of the first and second classes, you will deprive six Kadiak and Aleutian families of the right to live and labor there, a loss which the people could not well sustain, as their 52 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. working gang for the sealing business is none too large now, and many days during the press of the best driving and killing season in June and July they are short handed. But if you decide in favor of the third class also, and exclusively, you will settle the matter in the most satisfactory manner with regard to the wishes of the people themselves. Accurate records of the people living upon the islands at the time of the granting of the lease can be found in the church registers on both islands. A copy of theone on St. Paul I embody in my report, and the record with regard to St.* George was in the custody of Father Shaiesneekoff, of Unalaska, who was absent on the occasion of my being there August, 1873. Third. The brewing of beer, or "quas," upon the Pribilof Islands. The existing law, which prohibits the importation, making, or vending of spirituous or fermented liquors in the Territory, is an excellent one, but the natives can evade it almost everywhere, and do so by brewing a species of beer from sugar, rice, flour, etc., with which they become intoxicated; but upon the seal islands this law can be thoroughly enforced, and it should be done rigidly, with honest regard for the best interests of the people there, who had they the opportunity would be in a chronic condition of drunken debauchery. This is only natural on their part, for most of their time is passed in idleness, owing to their position and the character of service they are called upou to render, which engages them scarcely over two working months in the year. The Government agent upon these islands can quietly and effectually abate this existing nuisance of beer intoxication by marking the offending persons and instructing, or rather authorizing, the company's agent to discontinue the selling of sugar, hops, etc., to the parties who abuse the privilege of purchasing them, apnd this agent of the Alaska Commercial Company will cheerfully do so. As matters now stand the law is simply nothing in regard to preventing the great evil of intoxication among these simple people, carried out, as it has been, by the Treasury agent in charge of the islands during the season of my residence there in 1872-73. The physicians on the two islands should alone have the dispensation of liquor, and they should be well supplied with it for medicinal use ouly, but to all others living or visiting on the Pribilof Islands the law should be patent and real. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Henry W. Elliott, Special Agent Treasury Department. Hon. Wm. A. Bichardson, Secretary of tlie Treasury. Special Agent Bryant: Shipping receipt, quota of 1873. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 14,1874. Sir : I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company have this day shipped on board their steamer Alexander, for transshipment at Unalaska, 256 fur-seal skins of last year's catch, being the balance remaining on hand of last year's quota. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Gal. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 53 Special Agent Bryant: Shipping receipt, quota of 1874. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 14, 1874. Sir : I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company have this day shipped on board their steamer Alexander, for transshipment and storage at Unalaska, 662 fur-seal skins, being the skins of animals killed last year for native food, and to be counted as a part of the 'quota of 1874.. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. Special Agent Bryant: Shipping receipt, quota of 1874. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, July 10, 1874. Sir : I hereby certify that there has been this day shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander, for transshipment at Unalaska, 40,000 fur-seal skins, all of this year's catch. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Thomas Shannon, Esq., Collector of Customs, San Francisco. Special Agent Bryant: Shipping receipt, quota of 1874. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, August 7,1874. Sir: I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company have this day shipped on board steamer Alexander, for San Francisco direct, 49,238 fur-seal skins taken on this island this year. Said steamer has also on board 5,620 fur-seal skins shipped at St. George Island July 31, being the balance of this year's quota for that island. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. 187 4r. Assistant Agent Falconer: Report on characteristics of fur seals. St. George Island, Alaska, August —, 1874. Sir : Since my appointment as assistant Treasury agent on the island of St. George I have never made any report direct to the Department bearing on the habits and peculiarities of the fur seal. My instructions were to always report to Mr. Bryant, the agent in charge, but the only reports so- submitted were of a routine character, 54 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. concerning the taking of seals by the Alaska Commercial Company, their compliance with the laws of the United States and the lease under which they have been acting, and the various changes in the rookeries. To Mr. Bryant, as agent in charge of the seal islands, more properly belonged the duty to apprise the Department of the changes in the rookeries and the habits of this valuable animal, which constitutes the chief, if not the only, source of revenue derived by the Government from the possessions acquired from Russia. The reports submitted by Mr. Bryant to the Department at various times differ so widely from my views that I feel it incumbent upon me to communicate to the Department a summary of the result of my operations during my residence on this island. The report that I now have the honor to submit is based upon personal observations carefully made during the past four years, and is in the main corroborated by Mr. H. W. Elliott, who was at one time stationed with me on this island as an agent of the Treasury. I shall also speak on other topics of interest relating to the island and its inhabitants. THE ISLAND OF ST. GEORGE. This island is much smaller than St. Paul; is situated in latitude 56° 19' 16" north, and longitude 169° 19' 6" west; is 10 miles long, with an average breadth of about 3£ miles, and has an area of 27 square miles. The shores of the island are bold and rocky, and the cliffs are in many places perpendicular, and rise to a height of nearly 1,000 feet. The sides of these cliffs are the favorite resort of myriads of waterfowl, which come here every season to breed; while others breed under the rocks in the center of the island. During the spring and early summer months the natives very readily secure, without incurring much danger, all the eggs they desire. By stationing themselves along the edges of the cliffs, they entrap a great many of the birds by means of a net fastened over a hoop attached to the end of a long pole. The island is entirely destitute of timber. There is a heavy growth of grass during the summer, of an excellent quality, affording good pasturage for cattle, and sheep, and goats. The only wild animals besides the seal are the blue and white fox. The latter were very numerous when the island was first discovered by the Russians. The white fox evidently made its way to the island on the ice from the Arctic or mainland during some severe winter; but the appearance of the blue fox is unaccountable, as the Pribilof Islands and Attu, in the extreme western end of the Aleutian chain, are the only places in America where they are known to exist. St. George is 180 miles from the Aleutian Islands, 38 from St. Paul, and about 600 from the Arctic Ocean. The mean temperature during the winter is about 26° F., and in summer 43°. A great quantity of snow falls during the winter, most of which, however, is carried off by the strong winds which blow generally from the north in the winter season. During the summer it rains almost constantly, which, with the dense fogs that prevail during this season, accounts for the humidity of the atmosphere of the islands and their adaptation to the peculiar habits of the fur seal. THE HABITS OF THE FUR SEAL. About the 1st of May the bulls first make their appearance, approaching the shore with great caution and raising their heads at intervals well out of water. If everything appears satisfactory they haul up and ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 55 select their positions in the rookeries, where they remain during the breeding season unless driven away by man or the superior strength of their rivals who come later. They take neither food nor drink for three months, living entirely upon the absorption of their own blubber. When they take to water at the end of the season they are reduced in weight fully one-half. It has been frequently stated that the bulls, after making a recon- noissance of the hauling grounds, depart and return again in the course of a few days with large numbers of their kind, and at the first appearance of these sentinels the natives extinguish their fires. Both of these assertions are incorrect. When the bulls first land they will weigh from 450 to 500 pounds. They are about 6J feet in length and the greatest circumference from 5 to 6 feet. In ascertaining the weight of seals I have exercised great care, and have never yet seen .a fur seal that would weigh even 600 pounds. The male matures in eight or nine years and not sooner. The different yCars of progression can be readily traced from one year up to eight or nine; after that period I think it impossible to ascertain with any degree of accuracy the true age of a seal. None but a full-grown seal can maintain a position in the rookeries, and when tiie breeding season is over many of them take to the water to feed, and when returning to land to rest they haul up on portions of the rookeries other than the breeding grounds. The most desirable position for THE BREEDING GROUNDS appears to be loose belts of rocks which skirt the shore between high- water mark and the base of the cliffs. These grounds vary in width; generally they are from 25 to 100 feet, according to the formation of the shore; but when they are insufficient for their wants and all the available space has been taken up, I have seen them haul up on the back ground, sometimes scaling the sides of hills to the height of several hundred feet and at an angle of 30 degrees. By the 10th or 15th of June all the ground is occupied, each bull reserving for himself a space of 9 or 10 feet square for his family. Very little contesting for position takes j)lace until the arrival of the females. They commence to haul up about the middle of June, and continue to arrive until about the 10th or 15th of July. The engagements at this time (when the females are arriving) are very severe, often resulting in the death of one or both of the antagonists, and sometimes in the death of the female, who is torn in pieces by the bulls sooner than either would willingly yield her up to the embraces of a rival. Both the bulls and females when they first arrive are in excellent condition. A female is about one-fourth the size of a full-grown male. From the weights of several obtained in July, 1873,1 found them to average 80 pounds; when advanced in years, however, and they cease breeding, they become very fat and will then weigh from 100 to 120 pounds. When they approach the shore they are taken possession of by the bulls on the skirts of the rookery near the water's edge. When she reaches the shore, these bulls (generally the nearest one) will spring between her and the water and force her into his harem, where she remains until his attention is attracted by the coming of another female, and while he is endeavoring to secure the new arrival the other deserts to his next neighbor, who is always upon the alert for an opportunity of this kind to occur, and encourages the desertion. By these repeated desertions from one harem to another the entire rookery is filled. Sometimes in these desertions the female is 56 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. overtaken and captured by her first partner and severely chastised, the bull taking her up in his mouth and shaking her very much as a cat would a mouse. The female utters no cry, nor does she make any attempt to get away during the castigation, accepting her punishment with good grace and deserting again at the very first opportunity. The female always endeavors to select a permanent position in the rookeries before giving birth to her young, which generally takes place from two to six days after their arrival. THE PUPS. The pup when born will weigh from 6 to 8 pounds, is of a very dark brown (almost black) in color, and is covered with short hair and a little fur. After the first day it is able to sit up and nurse very much like a young dog. Its mother seems to be very much attached to it; is able to distinguish its cry from the thousands around her, and readily responds to its relief if it becomes lodged between the rocks and unable to extricate itself. When the pups are about six weeks old they receive their first lessons in swimming. They are forced into the water by their mothers and sometimes by the bulls. I have seen on one occasion a female carry her pup in her mouth and drop it in the water a few yards from land and leave it to make its way ashore unaided. Notwithstanding the seal belongs to the order of amphibia, the pup never instinctively seeks the water, and appears very much frightened on its first immersion, and paddles to the shore as awkwardly as the young of the canine or feline species. After a while they become expert swimmers and seek the water of their own accord, and seem to enjoy the sport very much, remaining in it the greater portion of the time. They return to land only when requiring food and rest. Before they become good swimmers and are able to battle with the waves a great many are killed by the surf dashing them against the rocks. In the years 1872 and 1873 about 4 or 5 per cent of the young pups were killed in this manner. When they leave the island in the fall they are exceedingly fat, and will weigh from 20 to 25 pounds. Previous to their departure about 2,000 of the male class are annually taken by the natives for food. These pelts have no commercial value. THE PERIOD OF COPULATION takes place a few days after the birth of the pup, and continues at intervals for a week for each female until the wants of the entire harem are complied with by the bull. The fertilization of the female as a general rule is effected by the bull in charge of each particular harem, and not by young males, as previously reported. The young males (bachelors) will invariably pursue the female after she leaves the harem and enters the water, but she always refuses him. The position and structure of the genital organs are similar to that of horned cattle, aud the manner of coition is not unlike that of the canine species. When pregnancy takes place the bull discontinues to a certain extent his surveillance and allows her to go unmolested where- ever she desires. Upon one occasion I saw a copulation take place in the water when the surf was breaking; the water, however, was not deep enough, except when the surf broke, to cover both of their bodies. A copulation may take place iu the water, but it is, in my opinion, unnatural and very rarely done. The time consumed in a copulation ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 57 is from five to eight minutes; but as the season advances and the vitality of the male is decreasing, and his procreative powers are somewhat exhausted, a greater length of time is required. The female arrives at puberty at 2 years and produces her first pup at the age of 3 years. This I very readily determined from the fact that when 1 year old both sexes haul up on the back grounds and are not allowed by the bulls to approach the breeding rookeries during the breeding season. CJpon returning to the islaud the following year the females enter the harems and the males of corresponding age take up the position they occupied during the year previous. The young female then receives the male for the first time and brings forth her pup the following year. The period of gestation, judging from the different observations I have made, is fifty weeks. The male arrives at the age of puberty at 3 years, but owing to an inferiority in size and strength he is unable to cope with the old bulls or maintain a position in the breeding grounds until he is fully 8 or 9 years old. THE FUR of the male is of a dark reddish-brown, mixed with black hair, with a silvery tip extending beyond the fur. The mane is quite shaggy, and is a shade or two lighter than the rest of the body. The older the animal the darker the fur until the seal reaches maturity. The fur of the female is similar to that of the male. The hair is shorter and of a brighter color, especially about the neck and breast, which is the principal means of distinguishing her from the male. The fur of the 3, 4, 5, and 6 year old males is the best for market, and in killing great care is taken to select the seals of these ages and this sex. The skin of the 5 and 6 year old commands the highest price in market. This, in my opinion, is due more to the difference in the size of the skin than in the quality of the fur, as the fur of the 3 and 4 year old males is equally as good as that of the older class. The quality of the fur and the size of the skin, however, varies in the ages in the same proportion as the quality of the wool and the size of the pelt of a flock of sheep. The fur is damaged to some extent by the animal crawling and rolling over the rocks, and also by the action of the weather. It is always desirable to obtain the catch as early as possible after the seals haul up, say in June and July, from the fact that after this period the skin becomes stagey—that is, the animal commences to shed the old hair, and the new hair making its appearance midway through the fur deteriorates the quality and throws it out of the category of prime skins. After reaching maturity and as they advance in years the quality of the fur becomes poorer, being somewhat long and coarse about the neck, and thin, short, and irregular about the loins and small of the back. The following table will show the weights of a number of male seals taken in the month of July, 1873, from 1 year old up to 6: Age. Weight. Pounds. 33 to 46 53 to 68 Threeyears I 76 to 89 One year... Two years. Age. Weight. Four years Five years Six years . Pounds. 90 to 111 120 to 146 175 to 200 58 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. From the above table it will be seen that the weights with the different ages vary as in the case with other animals. A poor 3-year-old will not weigh much if any more than a 2-year-old in good condition, nor is the difference in their size very perceptible. To ascertain the age of a 2 and 3 year old is by no means an easy matter, as we have no means of determining, except by the size, and there is very little difference in them at these ages. A keen eye only, with long practice, can overcome this difficulty. When 4 years old and upward the mane on the back of the neck commences to grow, until the animal is 9 or 10 years old. After that period I have found it utterly impossible to determine their age with any degree of accuracy. NUMBER OF SEALS. In regard to the number of seals that annually frequent this island, I would state that a survey of the different rookeries was made in 1873 by Assistant Treasury Agent H. W. Elliott. Allowing 2 square feet for each seal and counting all classes, he estimates the total at 160,420. From a subsequent survey of the rookeries, however, it was found, owing to the increase of seals this year, that their capacity was underrated, there being a difference of 69,580 square feet, which on the above basis would make a difference in favor of the rookeries of 34,790 seals and the total at 193,210. Even this latter figure, in my opiniou, is considerably below the real number that frequent the island. It is utterly impossible to make other than an approximate estimate of their number. It would be about as easy to calculate the number of bees in and around a hive. This survey was made of the breeding grounds only, and the capacity of the hauling grounds was not considered, nor was the number in the water. It has, I believe, been stated that the seals never leave the rookeries until the fall. This is not the case, for at least one-fourth of their number is constantly in the water, and this, added to the number on the hauling grounds, would add 50 per cent to the number before given, making a grand total of 289,815 of all classes. In reports submitted to the Department a few years ago it was estimated that the number of seals upon this island was one-half the number on St. Paul. This is incorrect. From the best sources of information and from personal observations I am of opinion that to every one on this island there are twenty seals on St. Paul. THE MANNER OF KILLING as practiced by the natives, is very simple. About 2 or 3 o'clock in the morning a party of hunters, armed with hardwood clubs from 4 to 5 feet long and 2 inches in diameter, move quietly between the breeding rookeries and the background where the bachelors are lying. When they have advanced far enough to secure the desired number, a halt is made by the leader, who directs the drive inland a short distance, where they are separated into small lots of 100 and 200 each and slowly driven to the killing ground near the village, at the rate of half a mile per hour. Should the weather be warm and the grass dry, a much greater time is required. One man and a boy are generally appointed to the care of each lot when on a drive. Before killing, they are allowed to rest and cool for an hour or so, after which thirty or forty are selected from the main body, driven a few rods, and surrounded. Each native, with a few well-directed blows (sometimes one will suffice) over the head, soon dispatches all the desirable ones, while those that are rejected are allowed to return to the water. Those allowed to escape are generally from 15 to 20 per cent ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 59 of the entire drive—some being too small and others too old and large. The killed are then skinned, with the blubber on the pelt, and spread on the ground to cool, with the fleshy side down. The entire drive is disposed of in this manner. After they have all been killed, the blubber is removed fioin the pelt and the skin is taken to the salt house, each man skinning and cleaning about fifty per day. Upon the following morning the skins are counted by the chief, the agent of the company, and the Government officer, and are laid down in kenches or bins, with alternate layers of salt thickly spread over them, and are allowed to remain in this condition from six to eight days. They are then taken up, sprinkled with fresh salt, and rolled into bundles of two each and secured by strong cords. In this condition they are shipped to market. THE DEPARTURE OF THE SEALS. The old bulls are the first to leave the island in the fall, the migration southward commencing about the latter part of September and the first of October. From this time the number of seals gradually decreases until all have disappeared. The young pups and their mothers are the last to leave (with the exception of a few old bulls that remain behind to protect the females), which is sometimes as late as the middle of December. THE HOME OF THE SEALS. I have heard it frequently stated that the movements of the seal and its haunts after leaving the island are mysterious; and many theories are given tending to show that they are scattered over the vast waters of the Pacific Ocean, feeding and roaming at will, without any banded organization. While I was stationed at Sitka as deputy collector of customs, and subsequently an officer of a vessel plying along the shores of British Columbia and Alaska, I had many opportunities of acquiring from the natives and by personal observation many facts tending to convince me that the favorite haunts of this animal are the shores of British Columbia and lower Alaska. As they feed upon fish, and, like other animals, require a certain amount of rest and sleep, the numerous bays and inlets of still water which indent those shores seem to iue peculiarly adapted to the wants of those animals when they leave the islands. As the fish upon which they live are more abundant in shallow than in deep water, the theory that they seek the deep waters of the Pacific would seem to me without foundation. Another reason why they prefer these shallow waters is that they are less liable to come in contact with their formidable enemy, the "killer," a name—and it would seem an appropriate one—given to it by seafaring men. These animals are a species of whale measuring from 30 to 40 feet in length. They have a long fin on the back, and when swimming near the surface this fin appears well out of water. They frequent the shores of the Pribilof Islands in October and November and destroy-a great number of the seals. In support of this assertion I would state that in the year 1868 Mr. E. Norton, while on St. Paul Island, observed a killer chasing seals, swimming with such force that he ran aground and was unable to get off. When the tide went out Mr. Norton cut it open and found three seals in its stomach. It is very evident that many seals fall a prey to voracious animals; otherwise their increase would be greater. In my opinion, the destruction of the seal in the water is equal to the number taken on the land. 60 ALASKA INDUSTRIFS. SEA LIONS. There is on the south side of the island a small sea-lion rookery, where these animals number about 4,000. The greater portion of them remain around the island all winter, or until the ice drives them away. A great many are taken by the natives during this season for food, the flesh being of a much finer quality and flavor than that of the fur seal. The skins are used by the natives in the construction of bidarkas and bidarrahs (native boats). THE NATIVES. As is well known, the natives were brought by the Eussians from the Aleutian Islands and were upon the island when it was ceded to the United States. They are of a dark copper color, with long, lank, and black coarse hair. The beard is very defective and never makes any appearance until the man is well advanced in years, and then only a few straggling hairs. Their medium height is below that of the European, with a few rare exceptions. They are, like all semicivilized races, uncleanly in their habits and persons, and during my first two years upon the island it required a constant watching and teaching, both by precept and example, to make them understand that cleanliness in their persons and dwellings was necessary to preserve their health and prevent disease. They have not much gratitude, but are kind and tractable and easily managed. They are good natured and cheerful, at times slightly irascible, but are never cruel or overbearing, except when under the influence of quas. They possess one trait of character, I think, peculiar to themselves; that is, they never harbor revengeful feelings. I have known them to express a dislike for a person, but when he had left the island, perhaps never to return, they remembered only the kindness they received at his hands and never spoke ill of him. They are industrious, but not avaricious, and always appear ready and willing to obey the summons of their chief or the agents of the company or the Government. In their expenditures many of them are prodigal. This, however, may be partly attributed to the voluntary generosity of the company in providing for them comfortable houses rent free, furnishing them with excellent goods from the store at reasonable rates, paying them good wages for their labor, and supporting their widows and orphans. This seeming indifference in making provision for their old age may also be attributed to their knowledge of the fact that in the future either the company or the Government will be obliged to support them. Still I have always endeavored to make them understand that they must not indulge in lavish expenditures, but practice economy in the event of a change in their condition. They are all members of the Greek Church and appear very much attached to their faith, which I have always encouraged, as I have found that their church exercises a strong influence over them for good. The worst evil they are addicted to is quas drinking. This is a kind of beer they brew from flour and sugar, and sometimes from a small berry that grows upon the island. Their educational progress has not been very satisfactory, from the fact that they have an antipathy to the English tongue, believing that if their children grow up with a knowledge of our language and customs it will alienate them from the faith of their parents, and they accordingly encourage the absence of their children from the school. They desire that their children should acquire the Eussian language first, in order that they may be enabled to read ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 61 the liturgy of their church. For this purpose and when they have had school they would privately teach the Eussian tongue, the children all assembling at a particular house for this purpose. This religious prejudice is difficult to overcome, but their progress toward civilization, considering their ignorance and abject dependence under the Eussians, is certainly remarkable. If a priest were stationed upon each island who would instruct them in both languages and give them to understand that an English education would in nowise conflict with their religious duties, they would, in my opinion, encourage their children to attend school with more regularity. Their progress then would be swift and sure, as they are naturally apt scholars. The presence of a priest upon the island would also have a moral effect upon them that would be invaluable, and I would respectfully recommend to the Department that some provision be made for one on each island. The condition of the natives upon this island at the present time is in many respects equal to, if not better than, many of our own people in the agricultural districts. The Alaska Commercial Company have for the last four years, so far as I am able to judge, fulfilled every requirement of their lease, and in many cases have exceeded their obligations by gratuitous distributions to the natives of provisions, clothing, and fuel. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, SAmuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Assistant Agent Falconer: Shipping receipt, quota of 1874. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, July 12, 1874. This is to certify that there has been shipped this day, on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamship Alexander, 4,380 fur-seal skins for Unalaska, to be reladen at that place on board the Alaska Commercial Company's bark Cyane, for San Francisco. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. 1875. Special Agent Bryant: Annual report for 1875. Fairhaven, Gctober 11. 1875. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the condition of the seals and general affairs of the seal islands since my last report, dated May 12,1875. The first seals were seen in the vicinity of the island on their return, April 5, and the usual precautions taken to insure their not being disturbed. They came with their usual regularity and order, the full-grown males landing on the breeding grounds and the young males passing these to the hauling grounds. Enough of 62 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. the latter nad arrived to make a drive and kill for fresh food for the natives for the first time May 7, and only one more drive was made for this purpose before the 1st of June, the time at which the Alaska Commercial Company commenced taking the seals for their skins, after which the natives subsist on the carcasses of the seals killed for this purpose. There was on hand in the salt houses June 1, of the animals killed for food for natives from July 17,1874, to May 31, 1875, inclusive, 5,063 prime skins, to be counted as a part of the quota of 1875. The Alaska Commercial Company commenced taking seals for their SKins June 1, and continued up to July 22, taking in all 84,933 seals, from which 84,860 prime skins were salted. These, when added to the skins on hand June 1, as stated above, made a total of 89,923. This was all the Alaska Commercial Company desired to take for the quota of 1875, as it has been their invariable rule to ship a little short of the full quota and make up the deficiency from the skins of animals killed for native food after the count at the Mauds has been verified by the official count of the customs officers in San Francisco. No seals are allowed to be killed on the island except by permission of the Treasury agent in charge, and under the direction of the regular chiefs. When seals are killed for native food, care is taken, as far as possible, that only such as have skins of prime value are killed. These skins are all taken to the salt houses where the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company examines and accepts all that are of prime value, and they are salted as a part of the quota of the following year. Those rejected are thrown away as worthless. This waste is usually very small, except during the time from August 15 to October 15, when the seals are shedding their overhair, and the skins are of no value. An account is kept in the record book in the Treasury agent's office of all seals killed and for what purpose, and of all skins and what disposition is made of them. All skins accepted at the salt houses are counted in at the salting and again on their delivery for shipment by the Treasury agent, and there is always a slight difference, but the counting on their delivery is taken as the official count, as that is direct, while the count of salting extends over the operations of the whole year. Appended is a series of tables showing the number of seals killed, prime skins salted, and those stagey or of no value. The information of the Alaska Commercial Company's leasing the right to take seal was first made known at the island October 9,1870, too late for sealing that year, and the skins of seals taken for native food from July 10 to December 30 were shipped May 19,1871, amounting in all to 3,748. Fur seals killed on St. Paul Island during the year 1871.1 May 16 to 28, for native food June and July, by Alaska Commercial Company, for their skins.. August 11 to September 30, for nati.ve food October 2 to 31, by Alaska Commercial Company, for their skins.. Quota full November 7 to December 19, for native food Total Killed. 432 45, 008 1,349 29, 760 Prime skins salted. -118 44,674 882 29, 591 Skins damaged. 14 334 467 169 76, 549 1,376 75,565 1,352 925 76,917 984 21 1,008 'During the winter of 1871-72, S. N. Buynitzky -was in charge of the island, and the number of young seals was not recorded. Seal skins shipped for the year 1871. Per certificate dated August 11 41,080 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 63 Fur seals killed on St. Paul Island during the season, of 187$ Killed. Skins salted. Rejected. May 11 to 31, for native food 687 69, 879 6,023 687 69,576 4,678 June 1 to July 31, by Alaska Commercial Company for their skins. 206 1,345 76,492 5,121 74,941 1,551 Total 81 fil a 1 7J. QJ.1 1 551 ■ J., V J.^. Seal skins shipped in 1872. May 9, of the quota of 1871 33,806 August 2, of the quota of 1872 , 21, 000 September 9, of the quota of 1872 49,551 Total 104,357 . Fur seals killed on St. Paul Island during the season of 1873. May 23, for native food June 1 to July 24, by Alaska Commercial Company. August 4 to December 30, for native food Pups for winter food. Total Killed. 297 74, 397 1,793 76, 487 5,489 81,976 Skins salted. Rejected. 284 13 73,884 513 914 879 75, 082 75, 082 1,405 1,405 Seal skins shipped in 1873. June 2, of the quota of 1872 ." 3,906 July 14, of the quota of 1873 32,076 August 8, of the quota of 1873 5,100 August 9, of the quota of 1873 37,804 Total 78,886 Fur seals killed on St. Paul Island for the year 1874. From April 27 to May 30, for native food By the Alaska Commercial Company from June 2 to July 17. Quota full Seals killed for native food from July 23 to December 31. Pups killed for winter food Total Killed. 1, 279 87, 923 89, 202 3,585 92,787 4,897 97,684 Skins -r> . - •, salted. Rejected. 1, 270 87,802 89,072 2.959 92, 031 92,031 9 121 130 626 756 756 Seal skins shipped in 1874.] May 14, of seals killed for iood from July 23 to December 31, 1873 10, 1873 918 40, 000 Jtdy August 7, 1873 49,238 Total.J 90,156 1 This year the deficiency in the quota by the count of customs officers is not reported for correction. 64 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Fur seals killed on St. Paul Island for the year 1875. Skins of seals killed for native food from J uly 17 to December 31,1874, brought forward Seals taken for native food from February 10 to May 31 By Alaska Commercial Company from June 1 to July 22 Quota full Killed. 1,850 84,933 86,783 Skins salted. Rejected. 3,223 1,840 84,860 89,923 83 Seal skins shipped in 1875. May 28, of skins left over from 1874 3,856 July 8, catch of 1875 39,036 August 7, catch of 1875 46,974 Total 89,866 It will be seen by reference to the foregoing tables that there have been killed annually on St. Paul Island 5,000 seal pups, or young seals 4 months old, nominally for winter food. I can find no precedent for this previous to the transfer of the islands to the United States, only that to the natives the former Russian Fur Company allowed, as an extra indulgence after the close of the season's sealing, the privilege of taking 500 of these young seals for feasting. This, under the clause in the act providing for the lease that allows the killing of young seals for winter food, has been construed to mean these young pups instead of half-grown seals taken for food at other times. The skins of these pups are of no value as a part of the quota, and these seals yield only 8 pounds each of eatable flesh, and are nearly all immediately eaten up as a luxury, and the same number of half-grown seals required for salting for winter use as before. It seems a great waste. I have therefore limited the number to be taken on St. Paul Island to 3,000, providing, however, that as a substitute there shall be killed a sufficient number of larger seals whose skins may be salted as a part of the annual quota. In my opinion, this ought not to be allowed, or, if so, the number limited to 500 on St. Paul and 250 on St. George. The rule governing the taking of these seals for their skins is to take only such surplus males as are not required for breeding purposes, reserving all the females to be added yearly to increase the original stock. These animals being polygamous in their habits, one male being considered equivalent to ten or more females for breeding purposes, the sexes being produced in equal proportions, always leaves a surplus of males to be taken without loss or decrease in the yearly product. What the number of this surplus was could only be determined by a careful observation of their habits and necessities covering five or six years of the time it takes for the animal to mature. At time of writing my detailed report on the habits of these animals, dated November 30, 1869, it was stated to be 100,000. This number was based on the best information obtainable at that time from the natives of the island and the few employees of the former Russian Fur Company remaining in the territory. Since then a residence of seven successive seasons on the island in charge of these animals has furnished me with the desired opportunity for determining this surplus product by actual study of their habits and requirements, and the result is the killing of 100,000 per annum does not leave a sufficient number of males to mature for the wants of the increase in number of females. And as it is desirable to state some of the methods by which these conclusions have been reached by me, a brief restatement of the habits of these animals and the effect of the killing of 100,000 per year for the past five years seems necessary. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 65 The seais return to the islands in spring in the same order and at nearly the same date in point of time, the males always arriving first; those full-grown, or 7 or more years old, land on the breeding grounds and occupy them to the entire exclusion of all the younger ones, who are obliged to seek resting places elsewhere. They select for their breeding grounds the rocky slopes of the projecting points and headlands, each occupying as much space as he can defend from intrusion for the use of his anticipated family. These, for sake of distinction, are called " beach masters." When these grounds are fully occupied the remainder of full-grown males fight their way to the rear of these breeding places, and lie in wait for opportunities to rush down and forcibly occupy any vacancies that occur among the beach masters. These are called | reserves." When I first examined these grounds in 1869 none of these breeding grounds occupied continuous shore lines of more than a quarter of a mile without spaces between, where the younger seals pass to the uplands and lie down in groups by themselves; but in 1871 and 1872 the increase in the number of females so crowded the families that-these spaces were entirely filled by the breeding seals, and the seals less than 6 or 7 years of age were compelled to find resting places on the beaches at the head of the bays and coves formed by these projecting points and headlands. This removed them farther from the breeding places, and facilitated their being driven with less chance of disturbing the breeding seals than before, when the separate groups had to be gathered in the rear of the breeding seals and herded for driving. The first females arrive about the middle of June, two months later than the males, who have at that time all arrived and located in their places. The females do not land until forced to do so to give birth to their young, which generally occurs within two days, producing one at a birth each. Immediately after landing, the female is appropriated by the nearest male and forcibly added to his family, where she is jealously guarded until she has borne her young and been covered for the ensuing year, which occurs usually in three or four days after the birth. Then she is allowed to go at will, and spends the greater portion of her time in the water, returning to nurse her young when necessary, the young seal being cared for by the male. The females all arrive, have their young, and are covered by the end of July. Soon after this the males leave the breeding grounds and do not return to them again. The young seal requires to be 35 to 40 days old before going into the water to learn to swim, and to be 4 months old to acquire sufficient age and strength to follow the mother at sea. Hence it is very important that there should always be a sufficient stock of breeding males to insure the impregnation of all the females during their first heat in July, for the period of gestation being one year, if they miss the first heat and return in August or September they have their young in the next year too late in the season to give it time to get strength for living at sea. The young male seals return to the islands the first year at the same time of the females, in July, and for every additional year of age ten or fifteen days earlier, so that when they attain to puberty, at the age of 4 years their time of arrival is the same as the old seals—that is, from the 1st of April to the middle of June. These, on their arrival, not being permitted to land on the breeding places, join the younger seals on the beaches, where they lie quietly until the time of the female being in heat, when they leave the beaches and play along the shores of the breeding places constituting an auxiliary force in covering the females, many of whom escape from the shore to be met by these males who H. Doc. 92 5 06 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. copulate with them in the water. These beaches, occupied by the intermediate ages from 1 to 6 years old, together with the few superannuated ones whose age unfits them to cope with the beach masters, are called, to distinguish them from the breeding places, the hauling grounds. It is from this class, on these hauling grounds, that the seals are taken for their skins. These seals as they lie on the beaches are surprised by the hunters, cut off from the water, and driven inland in droves to the salt houses, where they are separated into groups of sixty or seventy at a time, and surrounded by the sealers with their clubs. Under the direction of the chief the prime seals are selected and killed and those too young or too old are allowed to go into the water and return to the hauling grounds again. These hauling grounds are swept and driven two or three times a week during the months of June and July and the prime seals culled out for killing, and every seal growing up has to run this gauntlet for his life his second, third, and fourth years before he escapes to grow up as a breeding bull. Thus it will be seen the method of killing does not admit of the setting apart of a special number and taking the remainder for the quota for market, and the only possible way to preserve the requisite number for breeding purposes is to restrict the number to be killed so far within the product as to insure enough escaping for this object. When the lease was put in practical operation in 1871 there was a very large excess of breeding males on hand. Since then this surplus has been diminished by the dying out of the old seals faster than there has been younger seals allowed to escape and grow up to fill their places, until the present stock is insufficient to meet the necessities of the increasing number of breeding females. The beach masters leave the island in August and September, and the females with their young from October to January, and do not return until the following July. Of their life while absent from the island we have no definite knowledge. They are frequently reported as being seen by coasting vessels on the coast of British Columbia and eastern Alaska during the months of December, January, February, aud March, and a few skins are taken by the Indians of that coast, but are not known to land and haul up on the shores anywhere. The most probable conjecture is that they remain near shoals and banks where fish and food abound during the winter months and gather the necessary stores of fat and blubber to sustain them through the summer. From the birth to the time of the seals leaving the islands at 4 months old the loss by death is comparatively small, but during the time they are absent from the island, from December to July, it is very large, only about 40 per cent returning at 1 year old, and this loss is still considerable the second year; after this they appear to be able to protect themselves, or rather avoid their enemies. What are their enemies is not fully known. In the month of September, about the time the young seals begin to go into the water, a species of small whale, called the "killer," make their appearance in the vicinity of the island in schools of from five to ten, and are seen near the shores apparently chasing the seals, who manifest great fear of them. Three instances have occurred where these killers have got in shoal water and have been taken and young seals found in their stomachs. These whales undoubtedly follow the seals to their feeding grounds and prey upon the young during the winter. These large and voracious animals are sufficient to destroy the young seals in great numbers, and their presence fully accounts for this immense loss. One other cause should be stated that has directly contributed to diminish the present stock of breeding males. During the season of ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 67 1868, before the enactment of the prohibitory law, the several parties sealing there took 240,000 seals, mostly of the products of the years 1866 and 1867. These would have matured and been added to the stock of breeding males in the years 1872 and 1873 and to this a part of the prospective deficiency is to be attributed. It became my duty, as a special agent of the Treasury Department, to reside on St. Paul Island during the season of 1869 for the purpose of studying the habits of the fur seals with a view to determining the practicability of preserving and deriving a revenue from the animals. At that time no opportunity was afforded of visiting the island of St. George to compare the number of seals breeding there with those on St. Paul Island, but from the best information obtainable it was believed to be equivalent to one-third of the latter island, and the proportion of the quota of that island was fixed at 25,000. In the year 1873 it was found that the proportion was too large, and for reasons set forth in my report of September 30 of that year the number of seals to be taken from St. George was fixed at 10,000, and 15,000 added to the quota of St. Paul. From the report of Assistant Treasury Agent SamUel Falconer, now in charge of that island (a copy of which is herewith transmitted), it will be seen that since that date the breeding seals have so increased as to warrant an increase in the quota of that island of 5,000, making it 15,000. Constant and careful attention has been given to the conditions and changes in the different classes of seals and the data kept for comparison from year to year, and the result, as summed up the present year, in comparison with 1870, shows the present stock of breeding females has steadily increased in a ratio of 5 or 6 per cent per annum added to the original stock, while the stock of breeding bulls has decreased by loss from age and other causes so much faster than there has been young seals grown up to replace them that its present condition is only equal to the present demand, and the stock of half bulls, or those to mature in the next two years, is not sufficient to meet the wants of the increase in the family. Under these circumstances I feel it my duty to recommend that for the next two years the number of seals to be taken for their skins be limited to 85,000 per annum, to be apportioned between the two islands as follows: From St. Paul, 70,000, and from St. George, 15,000. The civil affairs of the natives have been conducted by themselves through their chiefs of their own selection, and with two exceptions good order and quiet have been maintained. One of these occasions was while the chief was making his rounds at 2 o'clock in the morning to wake and send a party of men to drive seals, he came upon a party of four young men who had during the night been drinking quas, or native beer, and got into a drunken quarrel. While he was attempting to quiet them one of them struck him, inflicting a severe wound over the left eye. At this others interfered and separated the combatants, and while the chief went to the surgeon to have his wound dressed the party dispersed to their homes. The next day an investigation of the matter was had at my office, and the man was clearly proven in the wrong. The three chiefs, who exercise both the judicial and executive functions, decided to punish the offender by creating a lower class in the division of the seal fund for the purpose of punishing misdemeanors of this kind, and placing him in it, which would be equivalent to a fine of $80. This condition was accepted by the offender and finally executed in the regular order of settlement of the fund derived from the killing of seals and other labors done by the people as a community. 68 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The other case was one where one of the chiefs and a party of natives had made a lot of quas, and, through fear of detection, drank it in the night and came on the fields next morning under its influence. They were very careless about skinning and when the skins came to be salted it was found a much larger number were damaged by cutting than usual. It was necessary to call them up and give them a severe reprimand, on which they promised to do better, and the effect lasted until after the sealing was over. Twelve additional houses had been built this year up to the time of my leaving the island, and six more were in process of erection. These would be ready for occupation by October 1. This makes, in all, 64 cottages built by the Alaska Commercial Company for the use of the natives. These have been built with special reference to the wants of the people, and they are allowed to live in them free of rent. This gives each family a separate residence with ample accommodation, so that where rive years since the pooulation were crowded into mud huts, half underground, suffering from scrofula and other diseases incidental to living without cleanliness or ventilation, there now is a village of 70 houses with well-graded streets, and the advantages derived by the people from their improved condition are already apparent in the better health of the community. The quantity of fish and coal provided for in the lease for gratuitous distribution has been landed on the island, and will, in due time, be delivered to the custody of the Treasury officer in charge; and beside this a large supply of the latter for sale for the use of the natives. The supplies of dry goods and provisions have been of good quality and ample in quantity, and sold at rates not exceeding 25 per cent on the cost prices. The widows and orphan children have been fed and clothed at the expense of the company, and all the conditions of the lease have been fulfilled in a broad and liberal manner. The yearly account of the natives was made up for settlement, and the annual division July 24 is as follows: 1,930 seal throats,at one-third cent $6.43 66 sea lion throats, at 15 cents 9.90 547 sea lion skins, at 60 cents 228.20 53 sea lion small intestines, at 20 cents 10.60 109 sea lion large intestines, at 10 cents 10.90 908 cut seal skins, at 20 cents 181.60 74,791 cut seal skins, at 40 cents , 29,916.40 Total 30,374.03 This was divided among six classes, the whole containing 78 shares: Per share. First class, 36, at 100 $432.07 Second class, 21, at 90 388.88 Third class, 13, at 80 345.64 Fourth class, 3, at 70 302.45 Fifth class, 4, at 60 259.24 Sixth class, 1, at 50 216.03 At the end of the sealing season on St. Paul the party from St* George returned to that island, having the credit for taking 15,000 seals on St. Paul transferred to their island. On the return of Samuel Falconer, assistant Treasury agent, from his leave of absence in May last, he was again placed in charge of St. George Island, and William J. Mclntyre remained as his assistant. On the return of the steamer for the last time, August 1, to this island Assistant Agent William J. Mclntyre was ordered to St. Paul Island to act as an assistant to George Marston, assistant agent in ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 69 charge of that island. This removal was rendered necessary on account of the strong feeling of dissatisfaction of the people against his (William J. Mclntyre's) former administration at that place, they all asking either to have him removed or to be permitted to remove themselves, as they could not live with him on the island another winter. I was not able to visit that island until my return on my way down, when the steamer stopped there for six hours, and I availed myself of it to inquire into the truth of the complaints by the party of sealers who came over here to seal in May last, as stated in my report of May 28. These charges were fully sustained by the chief and people remaining on the island, the chief giving me a written statement in the Eussian language of the whole affair, with the desire to have it transmitted to the Secretary of the Treasury. (This letter is inclosed herewith.) The chief also informed me that the copies of the regulations of the company governing their employees in their relations with the natives, together with their letters of instructions from myself, that I had caused to be translated into Eussian and filed with them for their use, that Mr. Mclntyre took from them on his assuming charge of the island, he had returned again on Mr. Falconer's resuming charge. There were also many individual complaints made of meddlesome interference by Mr. Mclntyre in their private affairs, and of frequently disturbing their families by forcing their doors and rushing into their nouses with pistols at unseasonable hours of the night, searching under their beds for beer, and frightening their wives and children, and treating them generally with a harshness they never experienced from the Eussians. From my long experience of the natural timidity and docile obedience of these people under all reasonable circumstances, I am led to believe there must have been very strong provocation on his part to have made them prefer removing from the island to remaining on it with him another winter. Under these circumstances I could not have confidence in his ability or fitness to have charge of either island, and therefore ordered him to St. Paul Island, and assigned him for duty as assistant to Col. George Marston, assistant Treasury agent in charge of that island. I herewith append the letter of the chief and people of St. George Island, and beg leave to recommend that it be referred for translation to Stephen IS. Buynitzky, esq., a clerk of the Department, who was detailed to assist me as interpreter in 1870, and who while so employed resided four months on St. George Island as officer in charge, and who is personally acquainted with the people signing the letter. [Translation. St. George Island, June r, 1875. Hon. Captain Bryant : We, residents of the Island of St. George, notify you of our complaint and beg- that you will submit our humble petition to your President, for we feel aggrieved since the fall of November 29, 1874, and namely on account of the following facts: While one of our people, Aleute Ciprian Merkuliev, was absent on a hunting expedition in the west end Captain Mclntyre took his son to the school and shut him in. Toward dusk the boy escaped from the school and went to the west end to join his father. In the morning of the next day Captain Mclntyre sent a native after him, with orders that Ciprian Merkuliev, with his son, should return on that very day. Ciprian Merkuliev came back with his son on that very day and brought some wood for his own use; then Captain Mclntyre grabbed him from behind and tore his overcoat, and after that Captain Mclntyre said to Ciprian Merkuliev, "Wait for me, I am going to kill you," and ran after his pistol; then Ciprian Merkuliev ran away and concealed himself under a overhanging rock, having on only a shirt and a pair of drawers and without boots. He remained there two nights and two days and was found on the third day half dead, and was led back between two men. Captain Mclntyre let him stay at home several days and as soon as he was getting better led him to his (Mclntyre's) house, and after putting manacles on Ciprian Merkuliev's 70 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. hands confined him in the cellar and let the boy go free. After that Captain Mclntyre kept Ciprian Merkuliev several days in the cellar and finally released him. Since that time Captain Mclntyre gave us no peace; he incessantly visited our houses and forced our doors, and. even went so far as to prevent our working for the company, which paid us for our work. Since then we lived with him through the whole winter in daily expectation of being shot by him, and we do not want to live any longer with him on the island. NlCANOR VlKONLOV. Andronik Rezantzov. (Then follow the names of 26 Aleutes, affixed by themselves or on their request by those of their fellow-villagers who knew how to write.) Col. George Marston, the last appointed assistant Treasury agent, arrived and reported for duty at St. Paul Island June 27, and after a month of careful instruction in the special duties of his position, on my departure, August 16, he was placed in charge of that island during my absence on leave, with the following instructions: Treasury Agent Office, St. Paul Island, August 6,1873. Sir: You are hereby placed in charge of St. Paul Island during my absence on leave by the Secretary of the Treasury. It will be your duty to see that the laws of the United States concerning the taking of fur seals under the contract with the Alaska Commercial Company are observed; that the natives are protected in all their rights, and in general it will be your duty to perform all those acts which shall be for the welfare of the United States, and the comfort, improvement, and well- being of the natives of the island. Your station is provided with a book for keeping a record of all transactions and occurrences that may be useful in furnishing information for guidance in the future government of the affairs of the island. You will see that no seals are driven or killed except under the direction of the chiefs with your permission, and in killing for food for natives you will see that as near as may be only such seals are killed as whose skins may be of the class to be accepted by the Alaska Commercial Company as a part of the quota of next year, and m killing young seals for winter food you will limit the number to be taken to 3,000 instead of 5,000, as was done last year. You will, however, have a sufficient number of larger seals killed when the weather is sufficiently cold for their curing properly with salt to insure a winter supply of food in case the weather should prove too warm during the winter for the usual supply to be kept frozen. You will permit no person not a native of the seal islands to reside on the island, other than the employees of the Government or of the Alaska Commercial Company, with a written permission of the Secretary of the Treasury. You are further instructed that if any cases come within your knowledge of the natives brewing quas or beer from sugar, or you have reason to believe such natives are indulging in such practices you will be careful to see that it is broken up and that supplies of sugar and other articles from which such quas or beer is made are sold to them in such limited quantities as to prevent a repetition of such practices. By permission of the Secretary of the Treasury, a priest of the Russian orthodox church is permitted to reside on the island to minister to the spiritual wants of the people, with the understanding, however, that in all civil matters he will be subject to the laws of the United States and the regulations of the Secretary of the Treasury made in pursuance thereof. As soon after the leaving of the steamer as convenient for yourself and the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company, you will receive 40 tons of coal in lieu of the proportion for this island of the 60 cords of wood provided as a condition of the lease. You will, on receiving this coal, give to the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company a receipt therefor, and have this coal stored until, in your judgment and the chiefs of the people, its use becomes necessary, when you will cause it to be distributed to the people on the same principle and method as described on page 221 of the book of records for the island under date December 14, 1874. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. George Marston, Esq., Assistant Treasury Agent, in Charge of St. Paul Island. I have the honor to remain, yours respectfully, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Ron. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the reasury. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 71 Inclosure u-ith Bryant's annual report for 1875 ; report of Assistant Agent Falconer. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, August 1, 1875. Sir : I have the honor to report the arrival of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Alexander at the island for her last time this season. On her way down to Unalaska, July 10, there was shipped on board 6,338 seal skins, and to-day 3,662 as per certificates herewith inclosed, making in all 10,000 for this year. On the 1st of June last the company commenced driving seals, and finished on the 17th of last month. From the various observations taken of the seal rookeries this season, I find that the four on the north side of the island compare favorably with "that of former years, while the one at Zapadnie, on the south side, has increased at least one-third over that of any year since my arrival at the island, 1870. The young ones, from 1 year old up to 4, have also increased over one- half. Should this hold out, I am of opinion that 5,000 additional could be taken without detriment to the rookeries. As regards the old bulls, there seems to be a slight falling off which can be accounted for in a measure owing to the yearly increase of female seals. I would here remark, for some reason or other, which would seem unaccountable, the seals were about two weeks later arriving this year. 1 have nothing further of interest to communicate except the company is building a very fine church for the natives, and I think the majority of native houses, if not all, will be built this season. I am, respectfully, Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. Capt. Chas. Bryant, Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. Schedule of seals killed on St. George Island. This schedule comprises the number of seals killed on this island by the Alaska Commercial Company and natives from 1870 to 1875, both inclusive: xear. 1870. 1871. 1872, 1873 . 1874. 1875 Killed by company. 19,027 25,064 25,072 10, 027 10,031 Killed by Government agent. 1,500 Pups for food. Cut. Rejected. Accepted. Total. 1,200 2,090 2,100 2,191 2,446 97 164 180 78 63 64 72 27 31 7,259 19, 077 25,000 25, 000 10. 000 10, 000 9,959 21,167 27,164 27, 263 12,473 10,031 Total for 6 years 108,057 Pups for native use are not yet taken; therefore they can not be included in this list of 1875. August 1,1875. Samuel Falconer, Assistant Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Bryant; preliminary report for 1875. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 12, 1875. Sir : I have the honor to inform you of the arrival at this island on the 10th ultimo of the Alaska Commercial Company steamer Alexander, twenty-two days from San Francisco, laden with supplies for the seal islands; also bringing as passenger Samuel Falconer, assistant Treasury agent, returned from leave of absence, who reports here for assignment for duty. I have received no communication from the Department by mail, but learn from Mr. Falconer that Assistant Agent Francis Lessen had beeu relieved and another appointed in his place, and from his nonarrival must conclude he was detained on the road and failed to connect with the steamer, and may be expected to arrive here late in June. Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer will be again placed in charge of St. George Island, and no changes made until the arrival of the newly appointed agent. I have received the letter granting leave of absence to take effect at the close of the season, of which I shall avail myself, and would most respectfully request that the collector of customs at San Francisco be authorized to pay on my vouchers my salary from April 14 to August 31, inclusive. This advance is necessary to enable me to settle my bill in San Francisco and meet the expense of taking my family east. I have had no communication with the island of St. George since August last, as the steamer did not touch there on her way here, and as she will go to Unalaska from there on her way down before she returns here I am compelled to delay any report on that island until I receive the report of Assistant Agent William J. Mclntyre, now in charge. As there will be no opportunity for the Department to again communicate with these islands before my return to Washington, when I shall file a detailed report covering my six years' administration, I now only submit a brief statement of the occurrences since my last report, dated August 7, 1874. At that date the Alaska Commercial Company had finished taking seals for their skins, the number then taken being sufficient, when added to the skins of animals killed for food after the close of the last season, to fill the quota for 1874. There were taken for food after the close of the sealing season, from July 3 to December 30, 3,585 fur seals. Of these skins 626 were of no value, from the animals shedding their fur; the remainder, 2,959, were accepted and salted by the Alaska Commercial Company, to be counted as a part of the quota for the year 1875. The past winter has been one ot unprecedented mildness, the mean temperature of the months of November, December, January, aud February all being above the freezing point, while the lowest degree of cold occurred in March, the thermometer falling to 14 degrees above zero. Owing to the mild weather, the seals delayed their departure from the island much later than usual—considerable bodies of them remaining until February, and a few still lingered until March. The first seals returning the present season landed the 5th of April, and they are now present in about the same conditions as last year at this date. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 73 A census taken on January 1 shows the whole number of native pop ulation on the island to be 222, divided as follows Males. I Females. Whole number Children under 5 years Between 5 and 15 Births daring the year Infants less than 1 year old living January 1, 1875 Deaths during the year 103 8 17 5 3 3 119 17 28 9 6 7 These people are divided into 64 families living in 58 houses, 44 of them built of wood and all above ground, and 14 are turf huts built partially in the ground. The past year 21 cottages have been built and the church advanced as far as the material on the island permitted. This is the first year since I have had charge of the island in which the births have exceeded the deaths, and there is a marked improvement in the health of the population, partly due to the mild weather, but more to the advantages of improved houses and the facilities thus furnished for cleanliness, ventilation, and other comforts. The supplies have been abundant and the prices reasonable, except the article of coal. Had the winter proved severe there would have been some suffering. With the new houses this becomes one of the greatest necessities, and arrangements are now made to secure the landing of an ample supply for the present year. The 40 tons provided for distribution gratis by the lease was stored until January, when it was distributed proportionally to each family weekly, and the supply lasted until the end of March. The school was commenced in the first week of October and kept continuously, except public and church holidays. The first month a very general attendance was secured, but with the commencement of the church holidays the attendance fell off, and it was difficult, without actual compulsion, to secure so great an attendance as was desirable. Mrs. C. P. Fish labored diligently and perseveringly to accomplish her task, and a few who have become attached to her have made good progress in reading, writing, and simple arithmetic. The strong prejudice that exists among some of the more bigoted against their children learning English, lest it should weaken their attachment to the Eussian Church, prevents a cordial action on the part of many. In regard to the suppression of the making of beer, or quas, from fermenting sugar and flour together, some progress has been made, and there has been less drunkenness than in any former year. During the month of September berries were very plentiful. With their juice fermented with sugar the evil became so serious that I found it necessary to restrict the sale of sugar to 4 ounces per week for each person, and this sufficed to check the evil. This regulation was maintained until the berrying season had passed, when, on the promise of better behavior, the former ration was restored of one-half pound weekly to each person. But with this allowance some save theirs until sufficient is accumulated with which to brew a quantity of quas, and then the consequence is they drink it secretly until drunk and make a disturbance, when I find and destroy it. The civil government of the natives has been administered by their own chiefs, or tyones, as they are called. There are three of these who exercise both the judicial and executive functions, and I have always made it a point not to interpose my authority in their private affairs 74 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. unless necessary, and have only had two cases where interference was necessary to sustain the authority of the chiefs. Good order and quiet have been maintained, and all misdemeanors known have been punished. No serious acts, and only a few cases of petty theft occurred. On the morning of August 20 a schooner was reported approaching the island from eastward. Supposing it to be a vessel belonging to the Alaska Commercial Company a flag was set to indicate the point of landing, but when near the southeast point of the island she kept away and ran down toward Otter Island, about 8 miles distant, and lowered a boat that pulled to the landing. Lest the seals should be disturbed, I took one of the chiefs and a boat and started for the island. Before reaching it the vessel took up her boat and stood to westward. On landing I found no appearance of the seals being disturbed. The vessel still steering to westward at 3 o'clock, I returned to the village of St. Paul. As soon as I had returned the vessel changed her course and made for Otter Island again, and at dark was near its east point. Men were stationed on the rookeries to prevent any disturbance there. At daylight the schooner passed near the reef and along the southwest shore heading to north and passed out of sight behind the island. A messenger sent to observe her movements returned at noon reporting the vessel going around the island to northeast. The vessel after rounding the northeast point steered to eastward, passing out of sight. On the evening of the 29th of August some natives who had been out fishing came in at dark and reported a schooner at anchor behind Otter Island, and that boats were moving about and that they heard reports of guns and saw smoke as if they were shooting seals. Kerek Bootrin, the first chief, volunteered to take a boat and go and see about the truth of the report. Mr. Benjamin G. Mclntyre accompanied him, and from them I gathered the following statement: The boat arrived at the island half-past 11, and on crossing to the other side saw the schooner at anchor under a high bluff, completely concealing her from view from St. Paul Island. In the morning as soon as it was sufficiently light they launched their boat, and pulling around the island came on the schooner by surprise. Before she could get under way they were on board. It proved to be the schooner Cygnet, of Santa Barbara, Cal., Kemberly master. He was evidently much disturbed by being boarded so unexpectedly. The captain said he was hunting for sea otters, and had taken 160 pelts near the island of Saranak. There were the carcasses of two fur seals hanging in the rigging and the pelts lying on deck. Captain Kemberly said he had captured them in the water for fresh food for some Kolosh Indians in his crew. The boats were stained with blood, as if recently used. Captain Kemberly explained that they did not usually clean their boats until the end of the season. In the meantime the vessel had got under way and the boatsmen informed that tbey must leave or go to sea with them. Captain Kemberly stated that the vessel had been at anchor thirty-six hours when boarded by the boat. ISo doubt could be entertained that they were taking seals by shooting them in the water. The boat landed and examined the shore by daylight, and found no seals had been killed there. They then returned to St. Paul village. Sea Otter Island is a small, rocky island about 8 miles distant from St. Paul. It is one-half mile long and half that in breadth; its ends and farther side are perpendicular cliffs, against which the sea breaks and affords no foothold for landing. Its other side faces St. Paul and slopes from the center gently to the shores. Here is the only boat landing, and any object the size of a seal can be seen from the hill in the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 75 rear of the village. Should this attempt be repeated, it will be necessary to put a party on it to prevent its injury by disturbing the seals. As it is only a rock, without any reliable supply of fresh water, it will be necessary to have a large boat for the purpose of carrying supplies there. This island has no breeding rookery on it, but in the months of August and September 5,000 or 6,000 seals resort there to rest and play on its outlying rocks and ledges. I herewith inclose an affidavit sworn before me by Benjamin G. Mclntyre on September 10, that it may be of service should any proceeding be instituted. I have the honor to remain, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Bryant's letter of May 12, 18751 deposition of Mr. B. C Mclntyre as to invasion of rookeries by crew of I Cygnet." St. Paul Island, Alaska Territory, ss: Personally appeared before me, Charles Bryant, special agent of the Treasury Department under the act of Congress approved March 5,. 1872, B. G. Mclntyre, who, on being duly sworn, deposes and says: I am agent of the Alaska Commercial Company, in charge of said company's business at St. Paul Island, Alaska; that on the 19th day of August, A. D. 1874, the schooner Cygnet, of Santa Barbara, Captain Kimberly, appeared off said island; that on the attempt being made by Capt. Charles Bryant, special Treasury agent in charge of the seal islands, to board said vessel, she stood away after she had lowered her boat; that said schooner sailed around the island on the night of the 19th of August, 1874, and disappeared on .the 20th of that month; that on the 29th day of said month said vessel was again discovered by the natives of said island at anchor behind the bluffs of Otter Island, where she was engaged, as they believe, in unlawfully shooting fur seals in the water near said Otter Island; that on the night of the 29th of said month deponent went to Otter Island, under cover of darkness, where he hid until daybreak on the morning of the 30th of said month, when by pulling alongside said vessel, he suddenly surprised her crew and boarded her; that he saw on board said vessel the carcasses of several fur seals, and which were admitted to be such by the captaiu of said vessel; that the said Captain Kimberly informed deponent that he had on board the skins of several fur seals caught in the waters about the seal islands of Alaska, and requested deponent to inform the special Treasury agent in charge of the seal islands that he intended to keep said skins; that said Captain Kimberly informed deponent that he had endeavored to avoid seeing any person from the islands; that on different occasions deponent saw several shots fired from the deck of said vessel, and saw the boat lowered and something taken on board, which he believed to have been fur seals unlawfully shot and killed in the water adjacent to the islands. B. G. MCJlNTYRE. Done at my office on St. Paul Island, this 10th day of September, A. D. 1874. Charles Bryant, Special Treasury Agent, in Charge of the Seal Islands. 76 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Bryant; transmitting report of Assistant Agent Mclntyre, on raid of rookeries by schooner I Cygnet." Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 26,1875. Sir : I herewith transmit to the Department a letter with accompanying affidavit received from Assistant Treasury Agent William J. Mclntyre, concerning the killing of fur seals unlawfully by the officers or crew of schooner Cygnet near the island of St. George during the month of September of the year 1874. The letter will explain the whole proceeding, and the promptness and energy with which said assistant agent, William J. Mclntyre, acted was very commendable. This is the same vessel mentioned in my report of May 12, ultimo, and I have since learned said vessel has since been to the port of Victoria, British Columbia, and sold her furs, and refitted for another cruise in these waters this coming season. Every precaution will be taken to prevent any killing of seals by the officers or crew of said vessel, or to seize' her, if possible, in the act. I have the honor to remain, with respect, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Speeial Agent Bryant's letter of May 26, 1875; invasion of rookeries by crew of schooner " Cygnet." Island of St. George, Bering Sea, March 15,1875. Sir: On the 1st of September last the natives reported that the crew of the otter-hunting schooner Cygnet were shooting seals from the deck of the vessel as she lay at anchor in Zapadnie Bay, 5 miles from the village. When a seal was killed they would lower a boat, take it on board, and after skinning it would throw the carcass overboard. I immediately sent a party of natives to watch the Cygnet and ascertain if possible how many seals were killed, and also sent a letter to the captain of the vessel informing him that his actions were illegal, and that he must leave these shores at once. As there were no boats on the south side of the island, signals were made for a boat from the Cygnet to come ashore. The next day the natives informed me that the signals were unanswered, and that no communication was had with the vessel; that the crew had lowered two boats and were killing seals in the water under the cliff near the rookery, and that the seals were evidently very much alarmed, as they were leaving the breeding and hauling grounds and were taking to the water in great numbers. A heavy sea was running on the north side of the island, and the breakers rendered it extremely hazardous to launch the whale boat and sail around the island to Southwest Bay, and as the natives are poor sailors I did not deem it prudent to make the attempt. Still, I wished to give the captain of the vessel timely warning before proceeding to any harsh measures. I had armed the natives with the intention of repelling by force any attempts to kill seal on the rookeries or within rifle-shot of the shore if the crew still persisted in doing so after the receipt of my letter by the captain. I ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 77 had the natives carry one of their bidarkas across the island to Zapad- nie, sent the letter before referred to, and also requested an interview with the captain on the beach, which he at once granted. Captain Kimberly was very much astonished when informed that he was violating the laws of the United States; acknowledged that he had been killing seals, but maintained that the jurisdiction of the Government did not extend to the waters of Bering Sea, but only over the Pribilof Islands. I informed him that the phraseology of the act approved July 1,1870, was quite plain, and there was no mistaking its meaning; that the second section of said act provides, 1 That it shall be unlawful to kill any seal in the waters adjacent to said islands, or on the beaches, cliffs, or rocks where they haul up from the sea to remain; and any person who shall violate either of the provisions of this, or the first section of this act, shall be punished on conviction thereof, for each offence by a fine of not less than two hundred dollars, nor more than one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months, or by such fine and imprisonment both, at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction and taking cognizance of the offence; and all vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, whose crew shall be found engaged in the violation of any of the provisions of this act shall be forfeited to the United States." He replied that if that was the law, of course he had violated it, but had done so innocently; that he was engaged in otter hunting, and had at that time 200 skins on board; that he was looking for a kelp patch to the west of the island, where h'e expected to find otter in abundance, and was only waiting for calm weather so that he could hunt them in small boats, and that he had not fitted out for any purpose other than otter hunting. In reply to the inquiry as to why he had not answered my signals and sent a boat ashore, he replied that he supposed they were made by the natives, prompted either by motives of trade or curiosity, and therefore paid no attention to them. Had he known that they were made by white men he should have sent a boat ashore at once. I informed Captain Kimberly that he must return to me the skins of all the seals he had killed, and leave the shores of this island at once. The natives reported that he had killed 34 seals, but Captain Kimberly said that he had killed 35, and would bring them ashore at once, which he did. These skins I salted and stored in the company's magazine at Zapadnie, where I supposed they would be perfectly safe, but the foxes effected an entrance into the salt house by digging under the floor and destroyed every one of them. It may be proper, however, to state that these skins were deemed stagey by the company's agent, or I should have turned them in to the company to be included iu this year's quota. The Cygnet left that same afternoon (September 2, 1874), and has not been seen in these waters since. The captain's full name is Samuel Kimberly, and the second officer's Cannon. The latter was engaged in sealing on this island in 1868. I am, very respectfully, yours, Wm. J. MgIntyre, Assistant Treasury Agent, St. George. Capt. Charles Bryant, United States Treasury Agent, St. Paul. 78 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosure with Special Agent Mclntyre?8 letter of March 15,1877; deposition of Zecar Oustigoff. Personally appeared before me, William J. Mclntyre, assistant Treasury agent United States (appointed under the act of March 5,1872) at St. George Island, this 5th day of September, A. D. 1874, Zecar Ousti- goff, who, upon being duly sworn, deposes and says: That on the 1st and 2d of September, A. D. 1874,1 saw the crew of the schooner Cygnet, as she lay at anchor a quarter of a mile or thereabouts from the shore of said island of St. George, shoot and kill fur seals from the deck of said vessel and skin said seals on board; that the said crew did also shoot fur seals in the water under the cliff about 500 yards or thereabouts from the shore of said island; and that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, 34 fur seals were killed at the times and in the manner before specified; that fur-seal skins to the number of 35 were on the said 2d of September, A. D. 1874, returned to William J. Mclntyre, the Government officer on said island, and that I, by the direction of said William J. Mclntyre, did assist in the counting and salting of said skins in the salt house of the Alaska Commercial Company at St. George Island on the date last mentioned; and further, that the said 35 fur-seal skins were killed by parties other than the Alaska Commercial Company and without their consent, or the consent of the Government of the United States. Zecar Oustigoff. In testimony whereof I subscribe my hand and seal on the said 5th of September, 1874. Wm. J. McIntyre, I p. s.] Assistant Treasury Agent, United States Treasury Department. Special Agent Bryant; transmitting report of Assistant Agent Mclntyre on management of affairs on St. George Island. Treasury Agent's Office, . St. Paul Island, May 28, 1875. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the affairs of St. George Island. The steamer, when driven from her anchorage here on the 14th instant, proceeded to St. George, where, finding landing impracticable at the village, it went around on the opposite side, and after landing Assistant Agent Samuel* Falconer and Mr. George F. Adams, subagent for the Alaska Commercial Company, she proceeded to Unalaska, with the freight for St. George on board. Return- ing thence, she arrived at St. George on the 24th instant, and after discharging the portion of freight for that station, again left for this island, arriving here on the morning of the 25th. The steamer brought as passengers Father Inocent Shisenekoff, archpriest of the Russo- Greek Church for this district of the Aleutian and seal islands; also, Paul Shisenekoff, a former resident of this island, who has been to San Francisco to be ordained as a resident priest here; also, Zachar Shisenekoff and family, former residents here, who have been living at Unalaska. All these are to reside here except the archpriest, who will return to Unalaska after performing the necessary ceremonies for installing his brother as pastor over the church here. Five native laborers were also among the passengers, to do the labor while the natives here are employed in taking seals; also, one carpenter from ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 79 Unalaska, to take the place of the one who now returns to San Francisco. By this vessel I am in receipt of the report of William J. Mclntyre, assistant Treasury agent, who has had charge of St. George Island during the absence of Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer, a duplicate copy of which is herewith inclosed. It will be seen by this report that he has, without authority, incurred a bill for labor and material for painting and refitting the Treasury agent's house and the fence around it of over $107. The vouchers for this bill, together with the pay roll, have been forwarded for my approval. I have examined these and find the prices reasonable and just, and have approved them, and they will be presented to the collector of customs at San Francisco, and I have to request that their payment be authorized. As this bill is nearly double my estimates for this purpose, as asked for in my report dated August 7, 1874,1 can but think more has been done and greater expense incurred than the exigency of the circumstances demanded. It will be seen, also, that he asks for authority to put down a new floor and purchase a new stove and carpet and double bed. As both houses were built at the same time and furnished alike, with the exception of the bed (the officer then in charge preferring a spring bed to a mattress), and these articles here in this house scarcely half worn, I must consider that the necessity is not so great for their renewal as to justify my giving authority to purchase new ones without waiting the pleasure of the Department, though it requires a year to do so. I shall visit St. George as soon as the newly appointed assistant arrives. To do so now, aud leave this place for a month without an officer, would be detrimental to the Government interests. From the general tenor of the report it would appear that the affairs of the island had been very ably administered, but I regret to have to state that 1 have information from other sources going to show that Assistant Agent Mclntyre has been guilty of unwarranted harshness in his treatment of the natives. Gregore Kolichieff, the second chief of St. George Island, is here in charge of the working party of 11 men. Last evening said Kolichieff, accompanied by Keprian Makoolieff. Mcholi Ostigoff, Zecar Oustigoff, and Berese Gallanim, came before me and made the following charges: It would appear that Keprian Makoolieff has a son named Esau, a boy about 8 years old, and that instead of sending him to the English school kept by Mr. Mclntyre himself for the Alaska Commercial Company, his father sent him to study with aforementioned Kolichieff to learn Russian. In November, when the boy's father was away from home, Mr. Mclntyre went to said Kolichieff's house and forbade his teaching the boy Russian, and ordered him to send the boy to the school kept by himself. Kolichieff said he had no right to send the boy, as he was not the boy's father, whereupon Mr. Mclntyre took the boy to the schoolhouse and locked him in to keep him in all night, as a punishment for not coming to school. The boy, not being used to such treatment, escaped through the window in the night and fled to Zapadnie, a place on the opposite side of the island, distant 5 miles, where the father was gathering driftwood. In the morning Mr. Mclntyre sent Zahar Oustigoff to order the father to bring the boy home; aud immediately on their arrival he (Mr. Mclntyre) attempted to seize the boy, but the father would not let him. Mr. Mclntyre returned to his own house, got a pistol and pair of handcuffs, and again returned to the native's house for the purpose of punishing both father 80 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. £ for his life, fled from and son. Upon seeing this, the native, fearin his house, with only his pants and shirt, and in this condition hid him self in the cliffs at the east end of the island, where the people found him, on the third day after, so exhausted by cold and hunger that they had to carry him home on their backs. When they arrived there the doctor took charge of him. On the fourth day after, Mr. Mclntyre took him from his house, put handcuffs on,- and lodged him in the cellar of the company's house, a very cold, damp place, and kept him four days on bread and water. During all this time the son had been confined in a dark closet in the company's house and kept on bread and water. All agree in the truth of this statement, and say they never experienced such treatment from the Russians, and they all unite in asking me to remove him. They say they are afraid of their lives, and if he is to remain on the island they all wish to leave it. All the former residents say that the said Keprian Makoolieff is a very quiet, inoffensive man, and gave no occasion for such treatment and made no effort in self-defense. They also complain that, on assuming charge of the island, Mr. Mclntyre took from their chief the Russian translation of the act of Congress reducing the quota of skins for their island, with the necessary instructions I had given in relation to coming over here to help take seals, and told them he should govern them in his own way. This paper was of no real value to them, but they have a great reverence for a written document, and I find they considered this one as their guaranty for the right to come to this island and help seal and share in the benefits of it. I feel so thoroughly assured of his unfitness for the position that, were it practicable, I should ask his immediate removal. I shall order Mr. Falconer here on the next trip of the steamer, that I may go there and investigate these matters. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Special Agent Bryant's report of May 26,1875 Mclntyre. report of Assistant Agent Island of St. George, Bering Sea, May 20,1875. Sir: The steamer Alexander arrived here on the 8th of August last on her way to San Francisco and brought me your letter of instructions for the winter. About the middle of August last I punished three natives for drinking quas. I then informed all the natives that it was the intention of the Government to break up the practice of brewing and drinking quas on these islands, and that it must be discontinued in the future. This was the first as well as the last instance of quas having been made or drunkenness observed during the winter. The natives have been sober, steady, and industrious, and have conducted themselves upon all occasions in the most exemplary manner. I watched them so closely that they could not make quas and escape detection. There has been a great deal of sickness on the island during the past winter. At one time it seemed as if everyone in the village was down with sickness. From the 8th of August up to the date of this report there have been nine deaths and only four births. Among the deaths three were grown people and the remainder were children. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 81 Only one accident occurredduring the winter, and that was occasioned through carelessness in handling a gun, the charge of which passed through the native's hand, necessitating amputation at the wrist. The bull seals commenced to haul up on the 5th instant, and on the following day I called in all firearms and forbade any persons going near the breeding rookeries. Two thousand four hundred and ninety fur seals were killed for food. Of this number, 205 were accepted by the company to be included in the quota of 1875. Of the remaining, 2,100 were pups and the rest stagey. The school has been kept open in accordance with law, the average daily attendance being 11. The progress of the scholars has been very flatteringr I have had the Government house thoroughly cleaned, papered, and painted both inside and out with two coats. The inside 1 painted white and the outside a very pretty brown with white trimmings. I have also painted the fence a light brown. In the fall I banked the foundations up to the woodwork. A new floor is necessary for the office and large rooms. The old floor is badly worn and has shrunk a great deal. I have to request that you authorize me to put down a new floor during the fall or winter. A new stove is also wanted and a new carpet and double bedstead. These are the only additional improvements necessary at present. I considered the repairs made this spring absolutely necessary for the proper preservation of the property. The following is the meteorological record for the twelve months ending April, 1875: [Average above zero] Months. May June July August... September October... Temperature. 42.20 47.9 49.7 52.9 49 40 Months. November December. January.. February. March April Temperature. 40.22 33.2 36.11 37.3 32.26 32.26 I inclose a separate report concerning the killing of fur seals by the crew of the otter-hunting schooner Cygnet in September, with affidavit. I respectfully request to be furnished with a copy of the lease and all acts of Congress pertaining to the seal islands, and any other information pertinent thereto. In accordance with your instructions, I have turned, over all Government property to Assistant Treasury Agent Samuel Falconer, who arrived here on the 15th instant. At the close of the sealing season of 1875,1 shall make a report concerning the breeding and hauling grounds, the approximate strength of the rookeries, and the mode of selecting killing seals. I will then be able to verify my figures made this spring, and take advantage of the information acquired during the past year. While in charge of this island I have seen that the natives were protected in all their rights, and that the spirit of the act and lease was carried out in every particular. I am, very respectfully, yours, Wm. J. McIntyre, Special Agent, St. George. Capt. Charles Bryant, Special Agent, St. Paul Island. H. Doc. 92—-0 82 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Bryant; shipping receipts for 1875. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 28,1875. I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board steamer Alexander, from this island, 3,856 fur-seal skins, being the skins of seals taken for native food irom July 18,1874, to this date. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, July 8, 1875. I hereby certify the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board steamer Alexander, for transshipment at Unalaska, 39.036 fur-seal skins for the quota of 1875. Charles Bryant," Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Treasury Agent's Office, #2. Paul Island, August 7,1875. This certifies that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board steamer Alexander, M. C. Erskine, master, 46,974 fur- seal skins of the catch of 1875; that said company has also shipped 3,662 fur-seal skins from St. George Island of the catch of 1875, and that said steamer has on board 5,328 fur-seal skins from Unalaska covered by certificate of July 8, 1875. Total number on board, 55,964 skin_s. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. 1876. Special Agent Bryant; limitation of catch to 85,000 seals annually. Washington, D. C, March 2,1876. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following communication, asking your consideration of the subject-matter contained in my report, dated October 11,1875, concerning the limiting the number of fur seals to be taken by the Alaska Commercial Company on the islands of St. Paul and St. George for the ensuing year. It will be seen by a reference to said report that for reasons therein set forth it is desirable to limit the number of seals to be taken the present season to 85,000 instead of 100,000, as heretofore done; and, further, that the present proportion of 90,000 for St. Paul and 10,000 for St. George is not properly adjusted to the existing condition of the rookeries on said islands, and that it is desirable the proportion should be fixed at 70,000 for St. Paul and 15,000 for St. George. As the Alaska Commercial Company steamer will leave San Francisco on or about the 1st of April next for the seal islands to commence the season's operations, and no other opportunity will occur for communication before the season is over, an early consideration of this matter is desirable. I have the honor to remain, yours, respectfully, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. "~v ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 83 Special Agent R. W. Elliott; criticism of Bryanth reports. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, March 6, 1876. Sir : I have been informed, and I have learned from Mr. Clarke, Chief Division of Customs, that the Treasury agent, Mr. Charles Bryant, who is in charge of the seal islands of Alaska, has urged a reduction in the number of seals that may be killed this year in compliance with the provisions of the law approved July, 1870, on the ground that, after a residence on those islands and in charge of the sealing interests there during the last seven years, he has just discovered the fact that taking H)0,000 young male seals annually "does not leave a sufficient number of males to mature for the wants of the increase in the number of females," a statement which bears on its own face a self-evident contradiction. If Mr. Bryant had made no other report to the Secretary of the Treasury than the one quoted from above, his statements, indefinite as they are, would have much weight, and he could not be truthfully charged with inconsistency and want of correct appreciation of the duties devolved upon him by the Treasury Department; but, unfortunately for the character of this report, he has made six annual reports to. the Secretary of the Treasury prior to it—his last report of October 11,1875—and in each and every one of these reports Mr. Bryant's language testifies in positive terms to a steady increase in the numbers of the breeding seals; nowhere does he qualify or question this fact, which at the time I disputed in strong terms, as I do now. Now, in 1875, he comes before the Department with a statement which completely ignores his testimony for the six preceding years, and which he stoutly maintained, with the aid of his friends, in spite of my opposition to its truth. I remember a long aud a somewhat warm argument which took place between ex-Secretary Boutwell and myself in the fall of 1873 on this subject, in which he declared his firm belief in the truth of Mr. Bryant's testimony as to the great increase in the numbers of the seals, and refused to give in the least adherence to my statement to the contrary, and I then asked for Mr. Bryant's removal on the ground* that he was giving to the Secretary of the Treasury an altogether erroneous idea as to the condition of the seal life; and, indeed, Mr. Bryant carried this so far as to advise in one of his annual reports that an addition of 30,000 be made to the lawful 100,000 for the season of 1874. My theory as to the fact that these seals on the Pribilof Islands have attained for some time past their maximum limit of increase in a state of nature is based upon a rigid study of the subject on the ground during the seasons of 1872,1873, and 1874, and every step I have taken in arriving at this conclusion is based upon facts, surveys, and figures, as set forth in my report, and the originals I can produce at a moment's notice; while to the contrary Mr. Bryant has never made a survey of the area and position of these breeding grounds about which he speaks in such positive erroneous language, and can not lay before you a single record made by him on these fields which will bear him out in his assertions; it is mere guesswork with him, and he has never made a series of systematic consecutive examinations of the breeding grounds, which is absolutely necessary to the correctness of any theory which an officer of the Government may advance with regard to the condition of those scattered and extensive breeding fields of the fur-seals on the Pribilof Islands. I would, therefore, respectfully urge that Mr. Bryant be instructed 84 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. to do this season what he has never done as yet on the seal islands—to make a careful and thorough survey of the area and position of the breeding rookeries under his charge, so that these records may be compared with work done by myself in 1872 and repeated by Lieutenant Maynard in 1874, and reported upon at length and in detail by both of us. This work will show at a glance whether the seals have increased or diminished, and be far above the level of mere guesswork. There is one plain inference which can not fail to arrest the attention of the inquirer, and which Captain Bryant's reports confirm much more strongly than do my own, and that is the fact that if the females are uincreasing" at the rate of "6 per cent" every year it is proof conclusive that there must be males enough for the purpose of breeding or«> these rookeries could not expand. In view of this conflicting testimony of Mr. Bryant, I trust that you will give the matter your careful consideration before signing any warrant for reduction, based upon such evidence, when it is fully as probable that, the six reports of Captain Bryant prior to the one for 1875 are more correct than is the latter, though all of them are based upon conjecture and assumption, not rounded upon actual investigation; and, furthermore, it would give me satisfaction to meet Captain Bryant in your presence and there discuss this matter in full. It is in no sense a personal matter with me; it is one in which I feel naturally a deep interest, that will arise in anyone's mind after long and attentive study of the subject. I should have come forward to oppose any increase in the killing just as promptly as I do this proposition for diminution, unless such a proposition were based upon tenable ground. Very respectfully, your friend and servant, Henry W. Elliott. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. P. S.—To more fully illustrate the natare of my objection to Mr. Bryant's testimony, I inclose a compilation from the several reports of that officer made to the Secretary of the'Treasury during 1869-1875 inclusive. • H. W. E. Inclosure with Special Agent Elliott's report of March 6,1876. EXTRACTS FROM CAPTAIN BRYANT'S REPORTS. [Report dated November 30,1869.] It will also be seen that the great importance of the seal fishery is not to he calculated from the basis of its present yield, as with proper care the number can be increased until both islands are fully occupied by these valuable animals. [Report dated November 10, 1871.] The breeding males and females occupy the same ground from year to year, without leaving their places until the end of July, and no other classes mix with them. These have clearly-defined boundaries, entirely separate from the grounds occupied by the classes driven for killing, and are never disturbed by it. As these are the sources that produee the supply, and the age at which most of them are killed is 3 years, their condition will furnish a standard by which to estimate the product three years in advance. A careful comparison of their condition the present year (1871) with those of 1869 and 1870, shows a decrease in the number of females the present year equal to 10 per cent of the two former years, which showed a gradual increase. This might indicate a necessity for restricting the number to be talc en were it not for the excess of 1870, which will compensate the deficiency for ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 85 one year; but should two successive years of decrease follow, it will be different- This decrease is the sani" on the rookeries where no seals have been taken since 1868 as those that have been worked continuously. Whatever may be the cause of this decrease, I am sure it must be looked for outside of the islands, a period of the year in which we have little or no positive knowledge of their habits. Sufficient search has been made for their winter abodes, with a view to taking their skins, to prove they do not land in any considerable numbers on any known land. They begin to leave the islands early in October, and by the middle of December have all left, and none are seen again until April or May. A few hundred, mostly young pups, are taken by the Indians around Sitka, 1,200 miles east of the islands, during the month of December, and again in March, on their way returning to the islands, and in February off the coast of British Columbia, but in such small numbers as to make no appreciable difference to the immense number that visit the islands annually. This is about all that is known positively of their winter habits. It is evident that sharks or other voracious fish prey on the young pups while in the water, from the fact that of more than a million pups annually leaving the islands not one-third return to them in spring. In the concluding sentence of this extract, Mr. Bryant makes a statement that is merely a matter of conjecture on his part; it is just as near the truth to say that half of the million pups born this year return next. He nor no one else would be justified in making either of these statements so positive, for the data does not exist. [Report dated September 5, 1872.] The present season the beachmasters or breeding-bulls have landed in excellent health and condition, and in greater numbers, occupying much larger grounds than ever before. The females also come in sufficiently increased numbers to occupy all the grounds thus mapped out, and the number of young seals produced greatly exceed any former years. The weather, although excessively foggy and disagreeable to the residents of the islands, has been especially favorable to the young seals. It is also observable that a larger number of yearlings or last year's pups than usual have returned to the island the present season. There is now only a deficiency of one class, that of the 4 and 5 year old seals. This is clearly traceable to the following causes: During the season of 1868 there were killed on both islands 220,000 animals for their skins; and in the season of 1869, 85,000 for their skins. At that time the relative value of the sizes or ages of the skins was not understood, and all the skins being paid for at the same price, the natives, who were quick to perceive the difference between taking a small skin and a large one, and carrying it to the-salt houses, killed all the yearlings they could; these were the products of 1867 and 1868. These were sent forward, in 1870, to market, and overstocked it with small skins. This created a demand for larger skins, and the Alaska Commercial Company instructed their agents to take all the large skins possible in 1871; this was done, and as many 4 and 5 year old seals as could be taken. This again fell on the already diminished product of 1867 and 1868. When these were sent to market, they were found too old, and now, the proper medium being ascertained, the seals will be selected accordingly. It will be seen by reference to my report of November 30, 1869, containing a detailed description of the habits of these animals, that this class of 4 and 5 year old seals perform an important service along the shores during the season of incubation; but as there was already existing an excess of old bulls from former years, the detriment to the rookeries from the absence of this class, growing out of the excessive killing of 1868, can work no serious injury to the rookeries for this two years, and at that time they will be supplied from the growing seals. Under the present system the rookeries show a steady increase that warrants the assertion that by 1874 an addition of 80,000 skins may be added to the number now taken annually. [Report dated September 30, 1873.] The breeding rookeries during the breeding season have a fixed and permanent character. They begin to fill at the water line, and fill in equal numbers in a given space, extending their boundaries no farther than can be so filled, so that by carefully noting these boundaries from year to year an approximate estimate can be made of the ratio of increase by the addition of the young females maturing annually. These, as compared with their area in 1870, now show an expansion equal to 15 per cent in three years, or an annual increase of 5 per cent since the date of the lease. The full-grown males that do not find room on the breeding places gather as near as possible to await for opportunities to supersede the weak and wounded while fighting for the possession of the females. Here the proportion their numbers bear to the necessities for breeding purposes can be readily estimated, and of this class for breeding purposes there is a full supply. The classes driven for their skins 86 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. during the sealing season are too often disturbed to afford opportunity for estimating their numbers. But after the sealing is all done and the full quota taken for the year we know what remains as a future supply. In a few days they settle quietly on their resting places and can then be fairly estimated. On St. Paul Island there is evidence of a steady increase that exceeds the demand to fill the quota for that island, while on St. George Island, as before stated, the supply falls short of the number necessary to furnish large-sized skins. All other conditions appear to be the same on St. George as on St. Paul, the females annually increasing in numbers, showing it to be only necessary to reduce the number of males taken for their skins to afford the necessary complement for breeding purposes. Thus may be summed up the general condition of the fur seals ^at the seal islands after three years' practical application of the present established system for their management. The number of breeding females has increased 15 per cent while 100,000 males have been taken annually for their skins, and there is still left a surplus of males required for breeding purposes. [Report dated August 4, 1874.] As the class of seals killed for their skins are mostly 4 years old and they do not mature until 6 years, the fall effect of the additions of 15,000 increase on the quota of this island the present year can not be fully estimated until two years more, when those that have escaped to grow up this year will be sufficiently matured to be of service. In my opinion any further increase in the number of seals to be taken annually would result in future injury to the rookeries. [Report dated October 11,1875.] At time of writing my detailed report on the habits of these animals, dated November 30,1869, it was stated to be 100,000. This numher was based on the best information obtainable at that time from the natives of the island and the few employees of the former Russian Fur Company remaining in the Territory. Since then a residence of seven successive seasons on the island in charge of these animals has furnished me with the desired opportunity for determining this surplus product by actual study of their habits and. requirements, and the result is the killing of 100,000 per annum does not leave a sufficient number of males to mature for the wants of the increase in the number of females. And as it is desirable to state some of the methods by which these conclusions have been reached by me a brief statement of the habits of these animals and the effect of the killing of 100,000 per year for the past five years seems necessary. Constant and careful attention has been given to the condition and changes in the different classes of seals, and the data kept for comparison from year to year, and the result, as summed up the present year in comparison with 1870, shows the present stock of breeding females has steadily increased in a ratio of 5 or 6 per cent per annum added to the original stock, while the stock of breeding bulls has decreased, by loss from age and other causes, so much faster than there has been young seals grown up to replace them that its present condition is only equal to the present demand, and the stock of half-bulls, or those to mature in the next two years, is not sufficient to meet the wants of the increase in the females. Under these circumstances I feel it my duty to recommend that for the next two years the number of seals to be taken for their skins be limited to 85,000 per annum, to be apportioned between the two islands as follows: For St. Paul Island, 70,000, and for St. George Island, 15,000. Now, as these reports run, Captain Bryant will be perfectly consistent if he advocates an increase of 30,000 to the lawful quota next year, and what's to prevent him on the ground of his taking? Special Agent Bryant; preliminary report for 1876. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, May 25,1876. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following brief statement for your information: Immediately after my personal interview with yourself on March 22, having been notified by the president of the Alaska Commercial Company that their vessel would sail for the seal islands on or about the 15th of April, and also being informed by the district ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 87 attorney for the district of California that my presence was required there as a witness for the United States in the case pending in the court for trial in the seizure of schooner San Diego, I lost no time, but proceeded at once to my home in Fairhaven, Mass., from which I started for San Francisco March 30, arriving there April 7. The sailing of the steamer was delayed until April 27, and arrived at Unalaska May 10. After coaling and discharging freight, the vessel again left for the seal islands, arriving at St. George on the evening of May 17 and ancnored, when a boat came off, and after a brief interview with the officer in charge, Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer, he returned to the shore with mail. During the night a severe gale came on, preventing all communication with the shore next day; and on the day following the steamer was driven to sea again, and after two days' storm she arrived at St. Paul Island. In my brief interview with Assistant Agent Samuel Falconer, in charge St. George Island, I learned of the general good health of the people during the winter and that the affairs of the island were in a satisfactory condition. I have just received his report, copies of which will be submitted by next mail. I am pleased to be able to state that I found the general condition of the people of this island in an equally satisfactory condition, aud a more detailed report will be forwarded next mail. The winter has been very severe and large bodies of ice were driven from the north down around the island during March and April, which has delayed the seals in their landing, but they are now arriving in greater numbers and promise to be present in as large numbers as usual by the 1st of June. In my report to the Department on the affairs of the seal islands, dated October 11,1875, for reasons therein set forth, I recommended the number of seals to be taken the present year on the St. Paul Island be limited to 70,000 instead of 90,000 as heretofore. I believe the change necessary for the preservation of sufficient numbers of male seals for breeding purposes, but as I have received no communication from the Department and have therefore no authority to act in the matter other than by recommending to the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company, a voluntary action on their part, and am informed by him that so well assured is the Alaska Commercial Company of this necessity that they will take only 75,000 seals on St. Paul Island the present year. I also recommended that the number to be taken on St. George Island be fixed at 15,000 instead of 10,000 as heretofore. This increase is warranted by the increase of male seals on that island the past two years, and seems the more necessary from the fact that the number of people residing on that island is so large in proportion to the number of seals taken there that the compensation received for taking 10,000 is barely sufficient for them to purchase the necessities for their living with the greatest economy. In my letter to the Department dated March 6,1876,1 requested that there should be furnished for the use of the offices of the Treasury agents on St. Paul and St. George islands each a copy of the Revised Statutes of the United States; also two blank books for the keeping of the records of the islands, and a scale for weighing mail matter. As none of these have been received, or any communication from the Department, I must conclude they have gone to Sitka. If this is so, I shall not get them for at least one year and possibly longer, and I would 88 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. again state that as the Alaska Commercial Company only sends a ves- sel to these islands twice a year, the only direct way to forward mail matter is to direct it to their care, 310 Sansome street, San Francisco, Cal. This Company will send one more vessel to these islands, to leave San Francisco the 1st of August next, and it is the only opportunity to communicate this year. Assistant Treasury Agent W. J. Mclntyre, who has during the past winter resided on this island, is now assigned for duty on St. George Island. Yours, respectfully, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Fur Seal Islands. Hon. B. H. Bristow, Secretary of the Treasury. Assistant Agent Falconer's report of affairs on St. George. Assistant Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, September 29, 1876. Sir : From the most careful observations obtained of the breeding rookeries this season, I find that they are somewhat fuller this year than last. Although their positions change a little from year to year, so that it is almost impossible to ascertain to a certainty, yet 1 am of opinion they are steadily increasing. The old bulls, too, are quite numerous, much more so than they have been for the past two or three years. There is not a sand spit or resting place around the island but on what they are to be seen. I noticed, too, a large number of this class on the outskirts of the rookeries badly used up owing to their continued warfare with each other, struggling for positions in the harems. They were fearfully lacerated about the neck and foreflippers; many of them were minus an eye, and, in some cases, both were out. The most perceptible difference this season has been with the young ones, such as are driven for their skins. In places where 1,000 had been obtained heretofore, double that number has been taken this year at a single drive. If the 5,000 has not been added to this island by the last session of Congress as we recommended last year, I would most earnestly request that it be done by the coming one, for the island can well afford 15,000 annually. There are no parties better able to judge and determine the proper ratio for each island than the resident agents, who have had years of experience and have watched the rookeries carefully. The company began driving seals on the lstof June,-and secured their number (10,000) on the 7th of July—all of which were shipped on board their steamship St, Paul on the 15th of July last, as per certificate forwarded you at that time. On the 19th of June a small schooner appeared off the west end of the island, which subsequently proved to be the Cygnet, of Santa Barbara, Cal., and anchored opposite Zapadnie rookery, on the south side, some little distance offshore. She did not appear to engage in shooting or spearing seals, nor did her crew attempt to land, probably for the reason that the rookeries were well guarded by natives, who remained there dav and night. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 89 In this position she remained for eleven days, after which she took her departure through the night and has not been seen here since. I have, however, learned through Captain Erskine that a small vessel answering her description has been seen around Otter Island. This is the same little schooner and captain that was here killing seals two years ago during my absence East, and was allowed to slip through the hands of William J. Mclntyre, who was then in charge of the island. I am also informed that the schooner Ocean Spray has been around your island this season killing seals, and has since been seized by Colonel Wood, deputy collector at Unalaska, and taken to San Francisco via Sitka. It would appear from the way those small vessels are cruising around our islands, snooting and spearing seals contrary to law, that the service of a revenue cutter is much wanted. In fact, I know of no part of the Territory where a cutter is any more needed than here during the summer season, and I would request that the attention of the Secretary be called to this fact, for unless the islands are protected in some such way as this there will be others engage in the enterprise in future. ISo doubt captains or commanders of cutters will use very plausible arguments against coming here, but I see no reason why a vessel could not visit the islands with perfect safety, say once in ten days, with headquarters at Unalaska. Beceipts for Government and native coal, also for 20 barrels fish, have been forwarded you in a separate inclosure. I am, respectfully, Samuel Falconer, Late Assistant Treasury Agent. Capt. Chas. Bryant, Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. R. R. Mclntyre, agent of Alaska Commercial Company; poaching schooners. San Francisco, August 15,1876. Sir : I regret to report that the agents of the Government and company in charge of the seal islands have not been entirely successful in protecting them from marauders during the past sealing season. On the 13th of June, 1876, the schooner Ocean Spray, Butler, master, brought to the islands a piratical crew, commanded by one Dr. Thatcher, who was formerly connected with a similar expedition in the schooner San Diego, and comprising, in addition to the usual number of sailors, twenty-six Indians from British Columbia, with an interpreter from Victoria. By stress of weather a canoe load of Indians, with Dr. Thatcher, was thrown upon St. Paul Island after attempting unsuccessfully to gain a footing upon Otter Island, and from these men we learned that the Ocean Spray is owned in San Francisco and chartered for this cruise by one Frank Howell and his partner, by the name of Mbby or Kibbetto. From the admissions of Dr. Thatcher.it appears that he intended to place his entire force of Indians upon Otter Island, armed with modern weapons, and to hold it against any force from St. Paul, while his crew proceeded to capture seals on and about the islands. This design was frustrated only by the unusual prevalence of fog, 90 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. which resulted in throwing him into our hands, and by the fact that his crew of Indians mutinied after he was allowed to proceed on his illegal voyage by Special Agent Bryant, who interfered unwarrantably and contrary to his duty, as we believe, in permitting the vessel and her criminal commander to escape after we had fairly captured them. The schooner was subsequently seized by Deputy Collector Woods at Unalaska and taken to the district of Oregon. On the 15th of June, 1876, the schooner Cygnet appeared off St. Paul Island, where she still remained on the date of our departure, having been last seen as the fog cleared up on the 14th of July. She was engaged in shooting seals in the water, in which she appeared to be very successful. On one occasion she approached within rifle shot of a densely populated seal rookery, where she was observed by one of our employees. He states that 30 shots were fired and 17 seals taken from the water at this time within two hours. On another occasion the Cygnefs crew effected a landing on Otter Island, where she captured, as a count of the carcasses showed, 300 seals in a single night. The following night she was pursued by Special Agent Mclntyre and Company's Agent Adams and overtaken, but as the boats neared her they were warned off with the threat that they would be sunk if they.came alongside. The company's schooner General Miller was sent in pursuit of the Cygnet, in charge of Acting Deputy Collector Armstrong, on the 1st instant, but as the latter vessel is a fast sailer it is very doubtful whether the Miller can overtake her. I am, very respectfully, H. H. McIntyre, General Agent of Alaska Commercial Company. Gen. J. F. Miller, President of Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. Special Agent Bryant; annual report for 1876. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 26,1876. Sir : I have the honor to inform you of the arrival at this island on the 22d ultimo, of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul laden with stores and supplies for the seal islands. I received no communication from the Department by this mail. Assistant Treasury Agent George Marston has received two letters dated August 18, 1876, marked u O. W. P." in the upper left-hand corner, the first informing him his appointment under the act of Congress approved July 31, 1876, as assistant Treasury agent for the seal fisheries in Alaska at a salary of $2,190 per annum is to be discontinued from September 30, 1876. The second, of the same date and mark, is a reappointment under aforesaid act of Congress, approved July 31,1876, as an assistant agent for the seal fisheries at a salary of $2,900 per annum in place of Samuel Falconer, superseded, and he is assigned to take charge of St. George Island accordingly. William J. Mclntyre, assistant Treasury agent, also received a letter of the same tenor and date notifying him that his services as assistant Treasury agent are discontinued from September 30,1876, and he will return to Washington per steamer St. Paul. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 91 I have the honor to submit the following brief report on the condition of the fur seals and the general affairs of the seal islands for the present season up to date. The large quantity of drift ice from the north that remained melting around the island during the month of May so chilled the waters as to delay the seals in their first arrival twenty days later than usual. We were able to make the first drive for native food May 23. As soon as the water became warmer they arrived more rapidly, so that by the 10th of June they were plentiful enough to proceed with the taking them for skins with as much dispatch as the number of men employed could do so, and up to August 2 there had been 79,400 salted, including 4,852 left over from 1875 of animals taken for food for natives. The account is as follows: Left over from 1875 Taken by Alaska Commercial Company for skins. For food from August 10 to September 1 Total. Killed. Skins salted. 5,321 74,550 648 4,852 74,548 619 Stagey. 80,519 80,019 469 2 29 500 Seal skins shipped as per certificates: July 27 55,538 September 26 24,322 Total 79,860 Showing a difference between the counting when salted and when delivered of 159 less skins. In my report dated October 11, 1875, for reasons therein set forth, I recommended that the number of seals to be taken on this (St. Paul) island be limited to 70,000 instead of 90,000 as heretofore, but receiving no authority to do so the matter was left to the discretion of their agent by the Alaska Commercial Company, and so well satisfied was he of the necessity of a reduction in the quota that he decided to take only 80,000. The weather proved very favorable for the seals until July 10, when heavy rains fell, accompanied with high winds, and it has continued with little variation up to date. This, occurring as it did just at the time the females were leaving their young, has resulted in a much greater loss of young seals than usual. The condition of the different classes of seals as they have returned to the island shows that the scarcity of full-grown breeding males still continues, the proportion on the rookeries being 1 to 17 females; this, in accordance with the result of my observation, should be 1 to 10 females. Where the females are so greatly in excess they fail of being impregnated for their young during their first heat and go over until their second heat, when the old males have nearly all left the island and herd with the younger males on the hauling grounds. As their period of gestation is a year, they bear their yourig a month later, which gives it that less time to mature strength for following the mother to sea at the end of the season. It is particularly observable this year that a very large number of the young seals have been produced a month later than formerly, and they are still hovering on the rookeries with their mothers, too young to go into the water. The taking of 80,000 instead of 90,000 this year leaves 10,000 more 5-year-olds to increase the breeding males, but as these will not mature for service on the breeding ground until two years 92 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. older, I still should recommend that for next year the quota of this island should be limited to 80,000. The females do not land until ready to produce their young, and for the foregoing reasons have been later than usual, but they show ample evidence of an increase of 4 or 5 per cent over last year. Of the hol- luschickie, or young males, between the ages of 2 and 5 years there is quite a visible increase shown by their proportions when seals are driven in to kill for food since the quota was full. The number of the yearlings or last year's pups that have returned to the island is greater than any year since 1872. This would indicate that the condition of their life during the past winter while absent from the island had been more favorable, and that the loss or destruction from their enemies had been less than ordinary. These classes all show a considerable increase in number over last year. The civil affairs of the natives have been administered by the chiefs as heretofore. There has been considerable drunkenness from beer made by themselves from fermenting sugar and flour on church holidays, but no serious disturbance. Their account was made up and their annual division of the seal fund made August 9, the amount to their credit being— 79,241 prime seal skins, at 40 cents $31,696.40 759 cut seal skins, at 20 cents 151.80 189 sea-lion skins, at 60 cents 113.40 Total 31, 961.60 This was divided by them as follows: Two first-class shares were allowed toward the payment of their new church, two for the resident priest and one for the archpriest at Unalaska, and a donation of $100 to Kazan Shisenekoff, a native residing here who has no share of the sealing. Class. Number of sbares. First 64, at$l Second I 13, at 90 cents Third 8, at 80 cents.. Fourth Kazan Shisenekoff. Total 3, at 70 cents Value of share. $378.40 340. 56 302. 72 264. 88 Total. $24, 271.60 4,427.28 2,421. 76 794.64 100. 00 31,961.28 This division differs from former years in making only three classes for the sealers instead of four, and setting apart a fourth class, composed of the widows and families of the sealers deceased during the year previous. They say that this change is necessary, as the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company construes article 12 of the company's regulations in requiring them to support the widows to mean only necessary articles of subsistence. They wish this share given for a fund to enable them to buy from time to time such other articles as their comfort and convenience require. The islands have been fully supplied with all such articles as the comfort and convenience of the natives required, except the article of coal for sale. The last winter was unusually long and severe. The drift ice from the north remaining about the island uutil late in May rendered a larger supply of coal than was ordinarily necessary. I have the assurance of the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company that this contingency will be provided for in future. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 9Q o In regard to the details of affairs on St. George Island, I have to state that I am in receipt of a copy of a certificate of the shipment of the full quota of seal skins at that island (10,000), July 15,1876, accompanied by a private letter from Assistant Treasury Agent Samuel Falconer, stating that his full report would be forwarded to this office on the return of the steamer St. Paul. The weather obliged the steamer to pass the island on her way hither without landing, and as she will not return here after going there, I have no information of later date than that certificate. I wish to call especial attention to this point: Und er the original act of Congress authorizing the lease of these islands, approved July 30,1870, from imperfect information concerning the number of seals breeding on St. George Island, the proportion of the quota for that island was fixed at 25,000 and St. Paul at 75,000. It was found in 1873, from information based on actual observation, that this proportion did not correspond with the true proportion of numbers of seals breeding on the two islands, and the proportion was changed, giving to the island of St. Paul 90,000 and St. George 10,000 per annum. As the island of St. George had one-third of the native population, this decrease in the number of seals taken there worked a great hardship in depriving them of the means of their necessary support, and to obviate this a portion of the number of sealers were permitted to come over and reside during the sealing seasons of 1871-75 on St. Paul, and assist in taking the increased number of that island and in sharing in the proceeds. This gave some dissatisfaction to the natives of St. Paul, so that when it became necessary for me to recommend, as I did in my report dated October 11,1875, a reduction in number of seals to be taken on St. Paul Island, for reasons therein set forth, I recommended that the proportion for St. George should be increased 5,000. This was not done. These same reasons being now in full force, I would again recommend that the quota for St. George be fixed at 15,000 per annum, as the rapid increase of male seals on that island since the reduction of its quota in 1873 will fully warrant this increase. This, with 80,000 on St. Paul, will make the full quota for both islands 95,000 for 1877. Eespectfully referring to my report from this island dated July 26, informing the Department of attempts by unknown parties to take seals from Otter Island, I would further state that Otter Island is a small islet adjacent to St. Paul, being G miles distant from its most southern point in a southwest direction and 8 miles distant from the village. It is about 1 mile long and one-half mile in breadth, and contains an estimated area of 150 acres. It lies with its longest diameter parallel to St. Paul. Its two ends and farther side are bold, precipitous bluffs, rising directly from the water from 50 to 250 feet in height, affording no landing for boats and scarcely for seals. From its rim-like edge it slopes gently to the shore of the northeast side, presenting its slightly concave surface to view from St. Paul like the side of the roof of a house, so that in a clear day any object the size of a man moving on its surface can be seen from the hill in the rear of the village on the latter island. In this way the parties were discovered on the 26th of June, as stated in my report of July 26. On this side is the boat landing, and that is available only in a smooth sea when there is no surf. This inclined plane affords a most convenient hauling ground for seals, but there is no breeding rookery there, nor do any female seals visit the island. It is the habit of the young male seals, from 2 to 5 years old, to return to the island at the same time as the old ones, but being prevented from landing on the breeding places by the latter, their only object is to seek some other resting j)lace, where they can lay at rest and wait until old 94 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. and strong enough to contend for their share in the females. In this way from 5,000 to 6,000 young males gather annually during the months of June and July on the island, where they remain until about the 15th of August, when the breeding rookeries break up and the females go in the water. These then leave their hauling ground and go in the water with them, and from that time not more than fifty to one hundred seals are found hauled up on the island. These seals are produced on St. Paul Island, and are as much a part of its rookeries as though Otter Island was attached to and a part of St. Paul, and the killing of seals there would have the same effect on the rookeries of the latter as if taken on it. In hazy weather vessels can sight this island in the daytime without being seen and in the night run in under its high bluffs and anchor, completely concealed from observation from St. Paul, while their boats can land and take seals, knowing that a boat approaching from St. Paul can be seen in ample time to escape to a safe distance; so that the only sure way to prevent these raids is to keep a party of natives on the island, as has been done this year. It is well known, that, from some oversight in framing the act of July 30,1870, authorizing the lease of St. Paul and St. George islands, this island was not included in that act, and that the penalties prescribed in that act do not attach to Otter island, and many believe it to be entirely without the protection of law. Under these conditions the high prices obtained for seal skins are a strong temptation, and it is to be expected that these attempts will be repeated, particularly while the risk of detection and capture is so slight. I would therefore recommend that such legislation be obtained in this matter as will extend the penalties of the act of July 30,1870, over this Otter Island, placing it on the same footing in relation to the law as St. Paul and St. George islands. So great a portion of the weather during the sealing season remains foggy that the only sure protection of the seals against being disturbed on this island is to have a party stationed on it. To do this properly a house should be built with sufficient room to accommodate an officer and five natives to serve as a boat's crew. Such a house, with stove and fixtures, could be built here at an expense not to exceed $300. During the months of June and July the natives of St. Paul would all be required to work at sealing, and the men could not be obtained for a boat's crew; but at Unalaska plenty of men could be employed at a rate of $20 per month, which would amount to $200 in gross for the two months. After the sealing season was over these could be returned to Unalaska and men furnished from here at very slight expense. Should the Department decide to authorize the carrying out of any of the foregoing suggestions by furnishing the proper authority, I could purchase the material and have the house built here, but the boat would have to be procured and forwarded from San Francisco, with all its furnishings—sail, oars, compass, anchor, etc. These could be purchased and shipped to me by the collector of that port. There is no supply of good fresh water on Otter Island, and all their supplies would have to be carried from this place. I would further state that owing to the swift and changeable currents in the straits between the islands, the frequent and long-continued fogs, the passage of open boats from island to island is very hazardous, exposing the party to the chances of being lost for a day or two at a ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 95 time, and to avoid this risk it would be desirable to have a large sailing boat of 8 or 10 tons, large enough to be safe in a moderate storm, and decked over, so that, in the event of being caught in a fog for three or four days, the crew would be safe and comfortable. For such a boat there is a good and safe harbor, with 4 feet draft of water. Such a J)oat would be very useful in pursuing or capturing vessels which should attempt to shoot seals near the shore. In this way fuller protection could be given to the interests of the Government here and at much less expense than by sending a revenue cutter into these waters. I would further state that such a boat as is required for the officer that should take charge of Otter Island is also much needed by the officer in charge here for the purpose of boarding suspicious vessels and for visiting distant points of the island in the care of the seals. One would do for both purposes, and I therefore would most respectfully request that such a boat be furnished this station, with authority to employ crews in cases of boarding vessels disturbing the seals. I have the honor to remain, yours, respectfully, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. Lot M. Morrill, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure xvith Special Agent Bryanfs annual report for 1876; shijyping receipts. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, July 27,1876. Sir: I hereby certify that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board the steamer St. Paul 55,538 fur-seal skins of the quota for this island for 1876. The steamer also has on board 10,000 fur-seal skins shipped July 15 from St. George Island, being the full quota for that island this year. Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 26,1876. Sir: I hereby certify* that the Alaska Commercial Company has this day shipped on board the steamer St. Paul 21,322 fur-seal skins of the quota for 1876. Yours, respectfully, Charles Bryant, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. 96 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 1877. Assistant Agent Moulton; report as agent in charge, during illness of Special Agent Morton. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, August 4, 1877. Sir: I have the honor to report that Mr. Morton is too ill to make his report in time for this steamer. A full report will be forwarded at a later date. I can say for Mr. Morton that the condition of the island is most satisfactory. Inclosed please find my report of the condition of St. George Island, also copies of the certificates of shipment of fur-seal skins from both islands. After I had counted the skins on board at St. George (15,000) I took passage on board the steamer St. Paul for this island to relieve Mr. Morton, who was to go to the States. He is too ill to leave by this steamer, but will leave at a later date. I have counted, on board the steamer St. Paul, 60,526 fur-seal skins taken from this island, making a total for the two islands of 75,526. I have forwarded to the collector of customs in San Francisco copies of the inclosed certificates. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Treasury Agent of Seal Fisheries. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosure with Assistant Agent Moulton's letter of August 4,1877; report of affairs on St. George for 1877. Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, Alaska, July 28, 1877. Str : I have the honor to report that the sealing season of 1877 commenced June 1, ended July 10. The total number of seals taken during the season was 15,000. During the month of June there were taken 9,987. This is the highest number ever taken in the month of June. The following statement will show from where the seals were taken: Starry Ateel and North Rookeries 7, 010 East Rookery 6,601 Zapadnie Rookery 1,389 It will be seen from the above statement that there were taken from Zapadnie but 1,389. The reason so few were taken from that place was owing to the season being very unfavorable for driving seals so far, the distance being 5 miles from the village. I think it will be advisable to take at least 5,000 from there the next season, and they should be salted on that side of the island. To attempt to drive that many seals to the village would result in great loss to the Government. The total loss to the Government the past year is 2,042. Below is a statement of the loss during the past year: Pups killed for native food in November, 1876 1,500 Pups killed by hoys through mischief, September, 1876 55 Seals died from heat and exhaustion 125 Seals killed for native food in October, 1876 187 Skins cut and rejected by the Alaska Commercial Company, season of 1877 175 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 97 The 55 pups killed by boys were stoned to death under the cliff's. It appears from the records in this office that some effort was made to discover the guilty parties, but without success. All the rookeries are in excellent condition and show a large increase over last year. The rookeries and hauling grounds show an increase of at least 33£ per cent over last year. This increase is seen in all classes of seals. The breeding rookeries are so full this year that the bulls and cows began to cover parts of the hauling grounds. The chief of the natives informs me that he has never seen so many seals on the island before. The school closed June 1, and the progress made by the scholars was quite satisfactory. The average attendance was 24. The general health of the island is good. Since August 1,1876, there have been 7 births and 10 deaths. Since October, 1870, there have been 44 deaths and 40 births. The present native population is 98, divided as follows: Adults. Youths Infants Total Males. Females. 19 27 19 17 4 12 42 56 Widows 9 Families 27 There has been but very little quas drinking on the island since my arrival in May, and as a general thing the natives have been orderly and industrious. Their earnings for the past year foot up $9,118. The coal, salt, and salmon for native use have been delivered to me, and are of good quality. The supplies furnished the widows and orphans are abundant and of good quality, and all goods for sale to the natives are first-class and sold to them at not more than 25 per cent above cost price in San Francisco. The terms of the lease on the part of the lessees are being carried out in good faith. In my efforts to prevent drunkenness and maintain order on the island I have received the cordial support of the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company. I have granted permission to Eoff Philimonoff and Platon Vicoloff to visit the island of St. Paul and remain during the coming winter. The Alaska Commercial Company's steamship "St, Paul arrived to-day and took on board 15,000 seal skins for shipment to San Francisco. Inclosed please find duplicate copies of certificate of the same. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Treasury Agent, St. George Island. J. M. Morton, Esq., Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. H. Doc. 92 7 sijjl a 98 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosures with Assistant Agent Moulton's report of August 4,1877; shipping receipts. Island of St. George, July 28,1877 This is to certify that 15,000 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, hound for San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, August 3, 1877. This is to certify that 60,526 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, hound for San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. Assistant Agent Moulton; report of affairs on islands during illness of Special Agent Morton. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 25, 1877. Sir : I have the honor to report that owing to the serious illness of Mr. J. M. Morton, Treasury agent, he is unable to complete his report on the seal islands in time to forward it by the revenue cutter Richard Bush, which is due here about the 28th instant. He is at present improving, and without doubt will be able to complete it within a very short time. I am authorized by Mr. Morton to state that the condition of affairs on the seal islands is satisfactory; that no change in the present rules relative to the taking of seals is deemed necessary; and that the Alaska Commercial Company have fulfilled the terms of their lease in every respect. I am further authorized to state that Mr. Morton, being too ill to avail himself of the leave granted him to be absent from the island during the present winter, has sent for his family to join him in the spring, with the view of his remaining here some length of time before visiting the States—at any rate, during next year and perhaps the following. Mr. Morton, being out of danger and improving in health, has directed that I return to St. George Island the first favorable opportunity. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Treasury Agent. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Special Agent Bryant; annual report for 1877, previous to his removal from office of special agent in charge. Fairhaven, Mass., August 1,1877. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following brief report on the affairs of the seal islands from the date of my last report, dated September 26,1876, to May 15, 1877, at which date the office and property of the Treasury agency was delivered to my successor, John M. Morton, who had arrived at the island the evening previous. A reference to my report of September 26 will show that the weather ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 99 from July 10 up to date had been exceptionally unfavorable to the welfare of the young seals, and had resulted in a greater loss than in previous years. This condition of unfavorable weather,with frequent and severe storms, continued through the whole season; October 30 and 31 a severe gale occurred, accompanied with a heavy fall of snow, covering the breeding grounds to the depth of 10 inches,which drove all the seals into the water. When the storm ceased, the snow melted, and large numbers of the females returned to the shore without their young, and remained several days searching and calling to find them,and then left the island for the winter. As many of these young seals thus driven into the water by the storm and snow, for reasons stated in my report of September 26, were too young to live in the rough sea, it is apparent that a very considerable loss in the product of this year is to be looked for; and as the time that these mature for the taking of their skins at 3 years old will be the season of 1879, careful attention should then be given to guard against the effect of this loss, and preserve a sufficient number of breeding males to supply the rookeries. When the usual time (the middle of November) arrived for taking the supply of young seals for native food for winter, it was found, after driving all the rookeries, only one-half the number necessary could be taken, and this deficiency had to be made up by driving and killing older seals, which resulted in the loss of 600 skins, that number being too small to be accepted by the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company as fit to salt. But few seals remained on the island after the storm, and those only whose young were too immature to live at sea, the great body of them leaving on an average of one month earlier than usual; but this did not affect the time of their arrival in the spring, the first seals being seen returning April 24, and there were enough landed to make the first drive for fresh food May 22. The following table will show the date of seeing the first seals and time of making the first drive for food from 1871 to 1877: 1 Year. 1871. 1872. 1873. 1874. 1875. 1876. 1877. Seals first seen. May 1.. May 5.. Apr. 21. Apr. 23. Apr. 27. do.. Apr. 24. First drive :or food May 16 May 14 May 28 May 6 May 7 May 28 May 22 In 1871 and 1872 they were delayed by ice in the water melting, rendering it too cold for them to pass through. It will thus be seen that the time of their first arrival varies but little from year to year. The winter proved the most severe in storms of wind and severity of cold since the transfer of the Territory to the United States, the heavy gales bringing large bodies of drift ice from the Gulf of Anadeer, that completely inclosed the island on the 24th of December, and the severe cold of January and February froze the mass solid, so that the island remained inclosed by it until May 5. The island was supplied with all the necessary stoves for the use and comfort of the natives. Coal, however, was not on sale to the natives. Of this article, as stated in my report of September 26,1876, the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company had promised to send after the date of that report, and two attempts were made, one in January, 100 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. another in April, to reach the island by a schooner with the necessary supply, but owing to the ice they were not able to approach near enough even to see the island. Early in March the temperature rose, and the weather continued as remarkable for its mildness as the winter had for its severity. Owing to this the people were able to collect driftwood sufficient to meet their necessities, so that there was no real suffering, as must have been had not the spring weather proved unusually warm. This experience demonstrates the necessity of having stored on the island by the Alaska Commercial Company, for sale for the use of the natives, a sufficient supply to meet their necessities before the season is so far advanced as to risk communication being prevented by the ice. The 40 tons provided by the conditions of the lease for gratuitous distribution among the natives was duly delivered to my charge and stored until the 1st of December, when the severity of the cold necessitated its use, from which time a weekly distribution of 80 pounds per week for each family was made, and in this way it served to meet the necessities of the people for cooking their food until the end of March, from which time they were able to collect driftwood enough to serve them until the arrival of the seals and blubber was obtained. There being 80 fires necessary, this 40 tons gives each fire one-half ton of coal for the winter, and this barely serves their necessities for cooking, and they require an additional 40 tons, for sale by the Alaska Commercial Company, to make their families reasonably comfortable. This, for some reason or other, the general agent has been unwilling to furnish, and in my opinion a regulation should be established by the honorable Secretary of the Treasury requiring that a supply of 40 tons of coal for St. Paul and 20 tons on St. George Island should be provided by the company and sold the natives annually. This, with the 60 tons provided for in the lease, is the smallest possible amount which will render them comfortable; and having placed them in houses above ground and rendered this a prime necessity, it belongs to them to furnish this supply, for which they are abundantly able and willing to pay. The priest and his assistants went to the Island of St. George for a parochial visit in July, to return in September. The weather not permitting the steamer St. Paul to touch there on her return to the islands in September, they were left there until January, when the schooner touched there, laden with coal, on her way to St. Paul, and they embarked on her, but the ice preventing the schooner reaching St. Paul, they were taken to Unalaska and remained there until the arrival of the steamer St. Paul, in May, when they returned to the island again, together with a party of natives belonging to this island, who had spent the winter at Unalaska. The services and business of the church were in the meantime conducted by the second chief and a deacon. The civil affairs of the natives were managed by the two chiefs, with the advice and approval of myself. There was some drunkenness during the holidays from quas, or beer brewed by fermenting flour with the sugar bought at the store for their tea and coffee, but no quarrels or disturbance arose more than the breaking of a window. This was punished by a fine to pay for the damage and a prohibition from purchasing sugar for a time. The school was opened October 2, Miss Juniatte B. Pierce as teacher, and continued to the end of May. At the commencement a full attendance was secured, which continued until the holidays in January. From that time it was difficult to secure a full attendance, from lack of ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 101 interest and appreciation by the parents of the children. Those who attended regularly made very good progress, but owing to their having no practical use of the English language outside of the schoolroom, there is very little exhibition of its knowledge unless they are questioned directly for the purpose of drawing them out. The Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, from San Francisco, arrived at the island the evening of May 14, by which I received Department letter dated March 3, 1877, marked | G. N. L." in the upper left-hand corner, informing me that my letter of September 24, 1876, asking permission to return to Washington at the end of the sealing season of 1877, with a view to resigning my position, had been received; and by the same letter I am instructed to proceed at my earliest convenience to San Francisco, Cal., reporting my arrival there by telegraph. My resignation was accepted to take effect on my arrival at that port. I *aiso received Department letter dated March 13, also marked a G. 1ST. L." in upper left-hand corner, .amending the letter of March 3, so as to accept my resignation on the arrival at the island of John M. Morton, appointed as my successor. In pursuance of these instructions, on the 15th of May I delivered to John M. Morton the charge of the island's Treasury agent's house, furniture, and all property belonging to the Treasury agent's office, including records of the island, taking passage on the steamer St Paul for Port Townsend, thence by steamer to San Francisco; arriving there, proceeded by rail to Fairhaven, Mass., June 30. I would most respectfully represent that when I made application for leave of absence to return at the end of the sealing season of 1877, with a view to resigning my position after filing my report, it was with the understanding that by the letter of my appointment, dated September 11,1875, marked u L. G. M.," my time and expenses in traveling were to be paid from the date of my departure to my arrival at home from the seal islands. Eow, I would most respectfully represent, that the making of my resignation take effect on the arrival of the notification at the island subjects me to a loss of time not contemplated in my letter of appointment. I would further represent that in the settlement of my account (July 21) the account of the expenses of travel from St. Paul Island to Washington on leave of absence in September of 1875 and my return to the seal islands in May, 1876, both falling in the fiscal year from July 1, 1876, to June 30, 1877, the allowance being but $600 and my expenses for those two passages being $715.28, exceeded the appropriation by $115.28, that sum was disallowed in the settlement, thereby subjecting me to the direct loss, I having been obliged to incur and pay that in the discharge of my duty to the Department. In view of the foregoing statements, I have inclosed herewith vouchers for the amounts claimed by me, and would most respectfully request your favorable consideration and approval of the same, and that the amounts thus called for be included in a deficiency bill and Congress asked to make the necessary appropriation, as was done in the cases of Assistant Agents Samuel Falconer and William J. Mclntyre, who were discharged under somewhat similar circumstances in October, 1876. I herewith transmit the certificate giving the authority under which I have acted while in charge of the seal islands in accordance with instructions contained therein. . I would further state that, in closing my official connection with the Department and retiring to private life, should any of the information I have obtained while in the discharge of my duty or the results of 102 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. my observation while in the Territory of Alaska be thought of use, a letter addressed to me, stating the matter, will meet with a cheerful response. I have the honor to remain, yours, respectfully, Charles Bryant, Ex-Treasury Agent for Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury. 1878. Special Agent Morton; annual report for 1877. Office of Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, May 15,1878. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following statement relative to affairs at the seal fisheries since the date of my last report in May, 1877: In explanation of my failure to transmit official letters to the Department by either of the vessels touching here last fall, I would respectfully state that on the 18th of last July I was suddenly prostrated by sickness and thereby confined to my bed until the middle of the following October, since which time no opportunities of communication have been afforded. During my illness Treasury Agent J. H. Moulton was present on this island acting in my official stead, he having reported here from St. George Island July 29 per Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul for the purpose of remaining in charge during my then contemplated absence ihrough the winter months. As no means were afforded of reaching St. George Island subsequent to the time when my restoration to health was thought to be assured, Mr. Moulton has been compelled to remain here during the winter, and now awaits the first opportunity to proceed to his proper post of duty. The full number of seal skins taken by the Alaska Commercial Company during the season of 1877 and shipped by its steamer St. Paul, August 5, was as follows: On St. Paul Island (including 1,469 skins of seals killed for food) 60,526 On St. George Island (including 256 skins of seals killed for food) 15,000 Total on both islands 75,526 The total catch of fur seals on St. Paul Island for all purposes during the year 1877 is shown in the following table: Number killed. Skins salted. Skins rejected. By the .Alaska Commercial Company.. 59,087 4,041 5,007 59,057 2,854 30 For natives' food, during the year ...... ......... 1,187 Young seals for winter food (skins of no value) Total 68,135 61,911 1.217 The skins which are shown in the above table to have been rejected by the company were mostly from seals killed for food in August, September, October, and November, when they were shedding their hair and fur, and therefore worthless. It is worthy of note that the* shedding or ll stagey" season of the past two years has been of much ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 103 longer duration than is general, and that the loss in skins of seals which were necessary to be taken for food during that time has thereby been unusually large. It may be remarked, however, that the waste in this respect during the past was much less than that of the previous year. Relative to the killing of young seals late in the fall for winter food, I would respectfully state that there have been heretofore taken for such purpose from 4,000 to 5,000 annually. As the skins of these young animals possess no commercial value, and are not, therefore, accepted by the company as a part of the yearly quota, it was my desire to limit the number taken on this island to 3,000 and to substitute in their stead animals of proper condition to furnish prime skins; but when the time arrived for securing this supply of meat it was found that the skins of all the larger seals continued stagey, with the prospect that they might remain so until their departure from the island, and as it would have involved a greater actual loss to have killed such seals at that time, and in order to insure a full supply of winter meat, I was compelled to permit the maximum number of young seals to be taken. Of large seals killed for food after the close of the sealing season, I may report that there now remain in the company's salt houses on this island 2,522 skins, these to be included in the company's quota for the coming season. Regarding the general condition of the seal life on this island during the past summer a favorable report may be made. The large rookery bulls, which are the first seals to reach the island in the spring, arrived somewhat behind the general time, owing to the late season; this, however, did not delay the approach of the cows nor prevent the rookeries from filling as early as usual. The nonbreeding seals, to which the killing is confined, also presented themselves slowly during the early part of the summer, but were present in sufficient numbers on the 4th of June to permit an inauguration of the sealing, which progressed favorably and was completed as early as the 14th of July. Of seals of this class it may generally be stated that their movements to and from the land during the season are variable and irregular, and that it is not, therefore, practicable to obtain reliable data upon which to base a report of their condition as compared with previous years. The weather proving favorable, their greatest numbers are usually represented after the close of the sealing, when, their grounds are no longer disturbed by the sealers. At such a season of the past year I may state that the general appearance of their hauling grounds presented no material changes from that of the previous year, so far as the closest observations could determine. The residence of the breeding seals on the island during the season assumes a permanent character, and as the general arrangement and disposition of the families are very regular and systematic, it is practicable, by a close scrutiny from year to year of the grounds occupied by seals of this class, to detect any material increase or diminution which may occur in numbers. From a comparison of my observations of the breeding rookeries on this island during the past season with Treasury Agent Elliott's survey of their boundaries in 1872 and 1873,1 find in most of them a very appreciable expansion, and in none any noteworthy contraction. In general terms, I may report the condition of all the rookeries as very satisfactory. There has been a marked increase of cows since 1872, and there is as yet no evidence that a supply of large bulls sufficient for breeding purposes has not been preserved. It will be observed from the report of Treasury Agent Moulton that 104 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. the rookeries on St. George Island are in excellent condition and that a very material increase in all classes of seals has taken place. In view of all the facts as above represented, I see no warrant in suggesting any changes relative to the quotas as at present established for the respective islands. The natives of this island received gratuitously from the company during the fall and winter 40 tons of coal, 60 barrels of salmon, and casks and salt for the preservation of meat in requisite numbers and quantity. All widows and orphans have been supported by the company. A physician has been employed and medical attendance and medicines have been furnished without charge. Between the agents of the lessees and the natives harmonious relations have at all times prevailed, and the general treatment extended to the latter has been in full accord with the generous policy which characterizes the company's dealings with this people. A school was maintained on the island from the 17th of September, 1877, to the 17th of May, making eight months. As the people were very desirous of the establishment of a Russian school, the use of the company's schoolhousewas granted for that purpose in the afternoons, and the English school has therefore been held only during the morning hours. This arrangement has served to dispel the objections heretofore held by the people to their children attending the English school, which they contended would effectually interfere with the acquisition of the Russian tongue, in which their church service is conducted. Before the opening of the English school I took pains to explain to the parents the importance of sending their children, and stated to them that every child of proper age and condition would be required to attend. Treasury Agent Moulton has since given his close personal attention to this matter with very excellent results. The average attendance of boys and girls during the term was about thirty, which was much larger than has ever been given to any previous school. Under an excellent lady teacher the progress made by the children in the elementary branches has been very commendable. During the past year the native people of this island have received from the company for labor performed the following moneys: In taking— 59,709 seal skins at 40 cents each $23,883.60 490 cut seal skins at 20 cents each 98.00 244 sea-lion skins at 60 cents each. 146.40 Total 24,128.00 The above amount was divided as follows under the direction of the chiefs: 63 first-class laborers (each) $310.74 11 second-class laborers (each) 279. 66 4 third-class laborers (each) 248. 59 1 fifth-class laborer 186.44 1 seventh-class laborer 124.30 Irregularly distributed 170.00 For incidental labor about the village the people have received in addition to the above amount about $3,400. The population of this island on the 1st day of January, 1878, was 257, divided as follows: Males, 118; females, 139. The number of births during the year 1877 was 13, and the number of deaths 18. The steam revenue cutter Bush first arrived at this place June 9, when a detail of one officer and two men was made from that vessel by Captain Bailey to serve as a guard on Otter Island during the sealing ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 105 season. For their accommodation a suitable house was erected on said island by the Alaska Commercial Company. The cutter subsequently visited the islands respectively on July 21, September 9, September 29, and September 30, finally departing for San Francisco October 9. That no unlawful attempts were made during the season to procure seal skins is without doubt due to the cutter's presence in these waters. The Alaska Commercial Company's schooner General Miller touched here August 11, landing lumber. On August 21 the whaling bark Osmanli, of New Bedford, appeared off this island, but did not come to the anchorage. A boat was, however, sent on snore from that vessel with a request to be supplied with a few fresh vegetables, which were furnished by the company's agent. On September 29 the steamer St. Paul arrived here from San Francisco, bringing additional supplies for winter. Salt and coal were landed at Unalaska for future use at the seal islands. Relative to the matter of quas brewing by the natives of this island, I may now report that a wonderful abatement of that evil has been effected, if not its entire suppression. Since October but three offenses in this regard have come to my knowledge, and since February none at all. This has been accomplished mainly by restraining, temporarily, every person who has made quas from the privilege of purchasing at the company's store sugar, molasses, and other articles which enter into the manufacture of said liquor. I have to state, however, that during the early part of the sealing season there was considerable drunkenness and not a little violence and disorder, chiefly on the part of the young men. Through intemperance, one man, two women, and a girl lost their lives the same night, having been suffocated by the burning of the wall paper of a room in which they lay intoxicated. In connection with this subject, I beg to refer as briefly as possible to the removal from the island in June last of a young Russian named Kicholas Krukoff. About that time a most disgraceful drunken debauch occurred on the island, which was participated in by as many as thirty persons, men and women, and which finally led to a severe affray among a party of young men, with whom appeared said Krukoff as an active belligerent, although he, himself, was not intoxicated at the time. Before peace could be restored on that occasion I was compelled to incarcerate Krukoff, together with four other persons, in one of the company's warehouses over night, to accomplish which act it was found necessary to call in the aid of the native chief and the company's agent. Affairs of this nature had become of frequent occurrence, and the one in question was of a character especially flagrant and shameful. I could not, therefore, but regard it as my duty to take some further action looking to the punishment of the guilty parties and to prevent, if possible, a repetition of a like scene in the future. With such end in view I invited to my office the.native chiefs and elders of the people, together with the resident Greek Catholic priest, and I impressed upon these persons that it was a duty they owed to the community to take an interest in this matter and to assist the Treasury agent ;n preserving peace and order in the village. After a long and earnest conversation relative to this subject, in which a very becoming interest and responsibility was manifested by all present, they agreed in the punishment of the mau Krukoff, whose offense, in their minds, was greatly aggravated by the fact that he was not intoxicated at the time of said disturbance, while the rest were under the influence of liquor and could not be held responsible for their actions. They further charged that he had always been a prominent ringleader in affairs of a like nature ALASKA INDUSTRIES. which had theretofore taken place; that he had on one occasion made a murderous assault on the chief, without provocation, which came near proving fatal to that individual, and that through his generally bad character and notorious conduct had rendered himself personally obnoxious to the greater portion of the people. It was therefore unanimously agreed that an example should be made of Krukoff by removing him from the island. From my own knowledge of his general character and conduct in the past, and as the least severe punishment, and the only one which seemed to be practicable, I resolved to act in the matter in accordance with the people's suggestion, feeling assured the best interests of the whole community would thereby be promoted. He was accordingly placed on board the revenue cutter June 11, and subsequently landed at Unalaska, where the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company directed provision to be made for his support until such time as it might be deemed advisable to permit him to return to the island. The past winter here has been one of unusual severity. A minimum temperature of 21° F. below zero was indicated and a mean for the month of February of 6° above. The fall of snow has been heavier than for many years previous. The natives have, however, passed a comfortable winter. The coal gratuitously distributed by the company, together with driftwood, which was cast upon the island in unusually large quantities last fall, furnished an ample supply of fuel. The general health of the natives during the winter has been unusually good and their condition in other respects has improved. These facts are in a great measure due to the absence of quas* Indeed, this matter of the consumption of intoxicating drinks is one whose importance can not be overestimated, considered with reference to its influence upon the welfare and prosperity of the people. I may state that without thorough and permanent reformation in this regard all efforts looking to any material improvement in their general condition must prove of little avail. Yery respectfully, J. M. Morton, j Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Special Agent-Morton ; annual report for 1878. San Francisco, Cal., September 4, 1878. Sir : I have the honor to report as follows relative to affairs at the seal islands since the date of my last yearly report, May 14, 1878: By the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer, which arrived at St. Paul Island May 12,1 received from the collector of customs at San Francisco a certified copy of your telegram to him dated April 24, relative to the number of fur seals to be taken by the Alaska Commercial Company during the season of 1878. Said telegram read as follows: You are authorized to send written instructions to John M. Morton, Treasury agent at the seal islands, that the quota of seals for the present year shall be fixed ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 107 at 20,000 at St. George anu 80,000 at St. Paul, providing, in his judgment, such change of quota may be found proper and desirable and the other circumstances connected with the killing of seals shall fully justify it. Referring to the above telegram in my letter to the Department dated May 15,1 used the following words: As to the small increase authorized in the quota of St. George, I may state that this is fully justified by the improved condition of the rookeries and hauling grounds on that island last season. I beg to say that this statement, which was based upon the report of Assistant Treasury Agent Moulton, although believed by me to correctly represent the conditions at St. George, yet, upon reconsidering the subject and after further consultation with Mr. Moulton, I thought, as a matter of prudence, it would not be best to take more than 18,000 seals on that island t he present year; and as I felt assured, from close personal observations at St. Paul last season, that the balance of the fall quota could be safely taken at that place, I thought it proper to change thequotafor St. George to 18,000, and t hat for St. Paul to 82,000, believing from the tenor of your instructions that I would be authorized to take such action in the premises as would seem, in my judgment, best calculated to guard the interests of the Government and natives of the islands. When the sealing commenced at St. Paul, June 8, there were then in the salt houses of the compauy on that island 3,430 skins taken from seals killed for food under my direction last fall and during the month of May of the present year. These were accepted by the company as a part of this year's quota, and the balance of the quota was really taken by the 18th of July. At St. George the season's work did not progress so rapidly, owing to the fact that the tillable seals did not appear in large numbers during the month of June. The last seals were driven there by the company July 21. I may state that on both islands the business has been somewhat delayed by unusually warm weather, which is unfavorable to the rapid driving and killing of seals. This especially interfered #at St. George, where there are fewer natural bodies of water into which the seals may be driven and cooled while being conducted to the killing grounds. The general condition of the seal life at the islands the present year presents no material change from that of the season of 1877. From careful observations of the breeding rookeries at St. Paul during the summer, I may report that the same excellent and healthy condition is maintained which characterized them last year. The stock of young seals born during the season was apparently full and in every way satisfactory, while the display of young males or kill- able animals was to all appearances somewhat better than last year. The report of Treasury Agent Moulton, herewith inclosed, gives a very favorable account of the seal life at St. George. Mr. Moulton's observations extend over two seasons, and I may remark that his statements are fully confirmed by the natives of the island with whom I conversed upon a late visit I made there August 9. The facts which I gathered from all sources at St. George concerning the present condition of the seals there warrant the statement that 20,000 skins may be safely taken there in the year 1879. I would therefore respectfully suggest that the quota for the islands next year remain as fixed in your telegram to the collector of customs at San Francisco, dated April 21,1878, viz, 20,000 at St. George, and 80,000 at St. Paul. 108 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The following table will show the number of skins shipped from the islands belonging to the quota of this year, certificates of which shipments have already been transmitted to the Department: From St. Paul Island: Shipped to Unalaska for transshipment, thence by schooner to San Francisco— JuneS 2,738 July 24 11,320 14,058 Shipped direct for San Francisco— August 17 | 67,942 From St. George Island: Shipped direct for San Francisco " 12,058 Remaining on St. George Island 5,942 Full quota taken by the company in the year 1878 100, 000 I would state that the skins remaining on St. George Island will be shipped by one of the company's schooners later in the fall. As said skins were officially counted by Assistant Treasury Agent Moulton before his transfer to St. Paul, I have given to the company permission in writing for their shipment, and have directed Mr. Moulton to certify to the same, as the schooner which takes the skins will touch at St. Paul. The Alaska Commercial Company has produced on St. Paul Island during the summer 15,000 gallons of seal oil. The labor of taking the blubber from the carcasses and transporting it to the oil works was performed by white employees of the company, assisted by Unalaska natives, brought there for the purpose on the company's steamer in the spring. The general agent of the company explains that this was necessary, for the reason that there is no available labor on the island for this purpose. Kelating to this matter, I found on file in this office a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, dated March 13,1874, addressed to Treasury Agent Bryant, then in charge of the seal islands, in which it is ordered that the Alaska Commercial Company " shall pay, as a compensation to the natives of the islands for their time and labor in skinning and delivering the' blubber at the place of rendering the oil, 10 cents for each gallon of oil taken," and "that such fee or tax shall be collected under the supervision of the Treasury agent, and be applied by him to the general welfare of the natives of the islands performing such services." I beg to state that the nature of this order was unknown to me until I found it among the files in this office, which was subsequent to the commencement of the business of oil making by the company, and as I discovered upon investigation that all the men and boys on the island who could be relied upon to properly perform the work of taking the blubber from the seals were actively engaged in the sealing, and having received no instructions from the Department relative to the matter, I permitted the business to progress during the season, the Unalaska men performing the labor. The shipment of the 15,000 gallons of oil was allowed with the understanding that the company shall hereafter pay, for the benefit of the natives of the island, a tax of 10 cents per gallon on said oil, providing it shall be decided by the Department that the tax is, under the circumstances, properly collectible. I would respectfully state that I did not feel authorized myself to collect said tax, for the reason that the order of the Department requires that it shall be collected and expended for the benefit of such natives of the island as perform the services. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 109 I am advised by the general agent of the Alaska Commercial Company that should the company be required to pay the natives of the island 10 cents per gallon for each gallon of oil which may hereafter be rendered it will be compelled to abandon the business, as the price which the oil now commands in the markets (about 35 cents per gallon, as I am informed) would not under such conditions justify its continuance. As the islands do not furnish a proper class of laborers for this work-, for the reason that it must be carried on while the sealing is in progress, and as the revenue already received by the natives from the sealing is largely in excess of what their wants require, I would respectfully suggest that the order'taxing the seal oil be revoked, and that the company be permitted to employ natives of other islands to perform this work. I may state that such of the Aleuts who are unfitted for the business of sea-otter hunting, which is the chief occupation of that people, often find it difficult to procure the means to sustain life during the long winters which prevail in Alaska. At Unalaska Island, which is nearest to the seal islands, and where the largest population is found, there are always a few of this destitute class who are anxious to find employment at the seal islands, which, in addition to furnishing a certain supply of money, affords an opportunity to obtain necessary supplies of meat and blubber for winter's use, to them indispensable articles which can not always be procured elsewhere. I have to report that the vessels touching at the islands this'season were the company's steamer St. Paul and the schooner Bella, also belonging to the company. There have been no unlawful attempts to procure seal skins from any of the islands. In the matter of suppressing the evil of quas brewing, I have continued to exercise the most diligent efforts, and I am glad to report that but one occasion of quas drinking has occurred since my last report. The great reform which has been effected in this regard has already resulted in substantial benefits to the people, as witnessed in the improved condition of the general health and public morality. I have heretofore failed to report that I visited St. George Island early in the spring (May 22), when I ascertained that the people of that place had passed a comfortable winter, and that the general health had been unusually good. All freely testified to kind and considerate treatment at the hands of the company's agents. Owing to the fact that there was no officer on the island during the winter, quas drinking was indulged in to a considerable extent, and some drunkenness prevailed. In other respects, however, I am assured that the interests of the Government and natives have not suffered. Very respectfully, J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. f 1 110 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosure with Morton's annual report for 1878; account with Alaska Commercial Company. Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. George Island, Alaska, year ending May SI, 1878. Dr. Aug. 5, 1877. 15,000 fur-seal skins, taken in June and July, 1877, and shipped to San Francisco by Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul. Cr. July 25,1877. By the following, as required under its contract with the Government of the United States: 20 barrels of salmon; 20 tons of coal; barrels and salt for the preservation of meat, as required; maintenance of school eight months, commencing September 17 and closing May 15. J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent. Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. Paul Island, Alaska, year ending May SI, 1878. Dr. Aug. 5, 1877. To 60,526 fur-seal skins, taken during June and July, 1877, and shipped to San Francisco by Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul. Cr. July 26,1877. By the following, as required by its contract with the Government of the United States: 60 barrels of salmon; 40 tons coal; casks and salt furnished as required; maintenance of school eight months, commencing September 17 and closing May 17. J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent. Inclosure with Morton's annual report for 1878 ; report of Assistant Agent Moulton. Treasury Agent's Office, St. George Island, August 15,1878. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report of affairs on this island for the season of 1878. I returned to the island from St. Paul May 19, and found affairs in a favorable condition: The Alaska Commercial Company commenced driving seals for their skins June 10, and the last drive was made July 21. There were taken during the month of June, including 425 skins taken from seals killed for native food, 5,641 skins. There were taken in the month of July 12,536 skins. Total accepted by the Alaska Commercial Company since last report, 18,177 skins. In addition to the above there were killed for food for the use of the natives 74 seals, the skins of which were stagey, and therefore worthless ; 1,000 pup seals, the skins of which have no market value; 45 seals perished on drive, and 147 skins were rejected by the Alaska Commercial Company, being under size. Total seals killed, 19,443. The seals killed by the Alaska Commercial Company were driven from the several rookeries as follows: June 10, North 325 June 14, Southwest Bay 1,074 June 17, North Starry Ateel and East June 19, Southwest Bay June 22, North and Starry Ateel.. June 25, East June 27, Southwest Bay une 18, Southwest Bav 858 717 570 324 851 517 uly 1, East..,,,... 644 July 2, North and Starry Ateel 980 July 4, Southwest Bay 1,433 July 8, East 793 July 10, North and Starry Ateel... 1,333 July 12, Southwest Bay .. 328 July 13, South west Bay 1,025 July 15, East 1,592 July 17, North and East 1,290 July 19, North and Starry Ateel... 1,577 July 21, East 1,291 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Ill The seal rookeries are in line condition, and the breeding rookeries show no diminution in the numbers of cows and pups. All classes of seals are as plentiful as last season. The school commenced September 17, 1877, and closed May 17,1878. Average attendance, 19 scholars. The general health of the people has been remarkably good during the past year, there having been but two deaths since July 15, 1877. At the present date there is but one person on the sick list. The following is the recapitulation of the census taken July 15,1878: Males. Females. Total. 23 14 5 32 10 11 55 24 16 Total 42 53 95 Families 26 Births 3 Widows 8 Deaths 2 Orphans 10 Gain, 1: Wife of Foka Shane, from Unalaska. Loss, 5: Widow Sleboif and family, removed to St. Paul. The following named are the only cases of intoxication since the last annual report: Foka Shane, Eoff Philimonoff, Martin Popoif, and Loverenty Merentroff". As a general thing, the natives have been orderly and industrious. There has been paid to them during the past year for sea-lion skins $145.50; wages, $1,583.15; fox skins, $383.50, and for 18,000 seal skins $7,200, divided as follows: Fourteen first-class shares, at $300.50 per share; 6 second-class shares, at $290.50 per share, and 5 third-class shares, at $250 per share. There has been received, for distribution to natives, 20 tons coal, 20 barrels salmon, and an unlimited quantity of salt. The supplies furnished the widows and orphans are abundant and of good quality. All goods for sale to the natives are first-class and sold to them at fair prices. I can conscientiously say that the terms of the lease on the part of the lessees have been carried out in good faith. In my efforts to prevent drunkenness and maintain order on the island, I have always received the cordial support of Mr. Morgan, Alaska Commercial Company's agent, and Mr. Eedpath, assistant agent. Permission has been granted Widow Anna Popoff, son, and daughter to visit St. Paul Island, with the view of remaining there permanently. I would respectfully state that some of the natives desired to throw out Maria Molavansky when they made their annual division of the proceeds of the sealing. After carefully looking into the matter I decided that it could not be done without doing great injustice to a deserving woman, as well as the head of a large family. From the records in this office I find that sbe has been considered the head of a family, and has received a fair share of the proceeds of the sealing since 1870. The records in the Alaska Commercial Company's office show that she has received a share and been considered the head of a family since 1869. This woman is not a married woman, yet she is the mother of four living children by native men of these islands. On the 9th instant the steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. B. Erskine, master, arrived from St. Paul Island, and shipped on board 12,058 fur-seal skins, taken on this island during the present season. There are IP 112 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. remaining in the village salt house 173 seal skins, from seals taken for food, which will be taken up the next season's catch. There are remaining in the salt house at Southwest Bay 5,942 fur-seal skins of this season's catch, which, I presume, will be shipped per steamer St. Paul on her way to San Francisco. On the return of the steamer to St. Paul I shall take passage for that island in compliance with your instructions. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Treasury Agent, St. George Island. J. M. Morton, Esq., Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Special Agent Morton; inclosing shipping receipts. San Francisco, Cal., September 2,1878. Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith the following certificates of shipments of seal skins by the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, said skins belonging to the quota of the islands for the year 1878: Shipped to Unalaska for transshipment by schooner to San Francisco: Certificate No. 1, dated June 8, St. Panl 2,738 Certificate No. 2, dated July 24, St. Paul 11, 320 14,058 Skipped for San Francisco direct: Certificate No. 3, dated August 10, St. George 12, 058. Certificate No. 4, dated August 17, St. Paul 67, 942 80,000 Remaining on St. George Island for shipment later by schooner 5^942 Total 100,000 Very respectfully, J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosure with Morton's letter of September 2, 1878; shipping receipts. Island of St. Paul, June 8,1878. This is to certify that 2,738 far-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul to Unalaska for transshipment thence by schooner to San Francisco, said skins forming a part of the quota of this island for the present season. J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, July 24,1878-. This is to certify that 11,320 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, for transshipment at Unalaska, by schooner, to San Francisco, said skins belonging to the quota of this island for the present season, J. M. Morton, Treasury Agents ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 113 Island of St. George, August 10,1878. This is to certify that 12,058 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. E. Erskine, master, to San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, August 17,1878. This is to ■certify that 67,942 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul to San Francisco, said skkis belonging to the quota of this island for the present season. J. M. Morton, Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, October 8,1878. This is to certify that 5,942 fur seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner Bella, Captain Peterson, master, for San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. Assistant Agent Moulton; supplemental report, 1878. Treasury Agent's Office, St. Paul Island, September 29,1878. ■ Sir : I have the honor to report that affairs on the seal islands are in the same satisfactory condition as at the date of last report, with the exception of one case of quas brewing on St. George. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Treasury Agent. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of Treasury, Washington, D. C. Special Agent Morton; inclosing statistics of seal catch. Indianapolis, Ind., November 26,1878. Dear Sir : In accordance with your request I inclose herewith a statement of fur seals killed on the seal islands since 1870, as shown by the records in the office of the Treasury agent at St. Paul. The record of seals killed the present year is necessarily incomplete, as my departure from the islands occurred before the supply of meat for the winter was taken. I am, very respectfully, etc., J. M. Morton, Special Agent. H. B. James, Esq., Washington, D. C. H. Doc. 92 8 ■ 114 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosure with Morton's letter of November 26,1878; statistics of seal catch on St. Paul Island, 1870 to 1878, inclusive. [From records in Treasury agent's office, St. Paul Island.] For natives' food, unde of Treasury ag r direction ent. By the Alaska Commercial Company for their skins. Full number accepted for the quota of the year, including skins oi seals killed for food. Total Tear. Bachelors. Pups or young seals. Number of skins salted. Skins salted. Rejected as ■worthless. killed for all purposes. 1870 (a) 2,341 6,916 2,090 4.867 6,282 5,061 4,041 908+ (a) 3,877 5,121 5,489 4,897 3,745 3,958 5,007 (a) 2, 290 5,365 1,198 4,232 5,784 3,064 2,854 908 6,017 74,627 69, 576 73,884 88,058 84, 860 74,137 58, 732 78. 570 6,017 74,627 74,941 74,892 89, 986 89,687 79, 983 60, 201 82, 000 6,017 1871 1,008 206 514 110 . 58 21 30 36 81 853 1872 81 819 1873 81 977 1874 1875 97,932 94, 945 1876 83,177 1877 67,810 1878 79 514 Total 32,506 32,094 25,695 j 608,461 1,983 632,334 675,'044 a No record. Inclosure with Morton's letter of November 26,1878 ; statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, 1S70 to 1878, inclusive. [Taken from Treasury agents' records St. George Island.] Tear. 1870 1871 1872 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 Total • Killed under direction of Treasury agent for food. a) 2,090 2,000 2,191 2,446 1,500 1,500 1,256 1,000 Killed by Alaska Commercial Company for their skins. 13, 983 (a) 19, 077 25, 000 25,000 10, 000 10, 000 10,000 15,000 18,000 132,077 Total killed for all purposes. (a) 21,167 27, 000 27,191 12,446 11,500 11,500 16,256 19,000 146,060 a No record. 1879. Special Agent Otis; preliminary report for 1879. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, in Charge of Fur-Seal Islands, St. Paid, June 1, 1879. Sir : I have the honor to report my arrival here on the 27th ultimo to euter upon the discharge of my duties as special agent in charge of the seal islands. Assistant Special Agents B. F. Scribner and J. W. Beaman also arrived at the same time per steamer St. Paul. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 115 I found Assistant Special Agent J. H. Moulton in charge, and obtained from him information touching the condition of affairs on the island during the past winter, which has been generally favorable, and of which I submit herewith a brief report. The season was mild, little or no ice appearing on the sea during the entire winter, and the mercury falling below zero on but one occasion.' -The ice limit was on May 25 about 200 miles to the northward. Most of the seal meat secured last fall by the natives for food was spoiled by the mild weather, the people being without from the 26th of January to the 19th of May, when 282 young seals were killed for food,1 and on the 26th of May 525 more. There was, however, no lack of bird meat secured during the winter, and this, together with the supplies of salmon furnished free by the lessees under their lease and the other provisions bought by the people, enabled the people to get through the winter comfortably and to come out in the spring in good r>hysical condition generally. Several barrels of salmon are left over from last year's supply. There was but little sickness among the natives during the winter. I have no report from St. George Island. The English school here was taught three hours each week day from September 2,1878, to May 8, 1879—eight months—with an average daily attendance of 38 out of a total of 42 on the school roll. The Eussian school was taught from two to three hours a day in the afternoon, with an average attendance of about 44. ' Assistant Special Agent Moulton appears to have taken great interest in the English school and to have exerted himself to promote its efficiency, as also has the teacher, James Butrin, a native Aleut, educated in Vermont. Some fur seals were seen about the island all winter, and the bulls commenced coming ashore unusually early in the spring. The regular killing season commences to day. Under the authority contained in Department letter of instructions dated April 7, 1879, I have fixed the quota of seals to be killed on St. Paul Island during the present season at 80,000, and St. G-eorge quota at 20,000. Under the same authority I have authorized the Alaska Commercial Company to bring twenty natives to this island from Unalaska to engage in the work of oil making, it appearing to my satisfaction that the laborers on this island have not the time or the disposition to do that woik. Captain Moulton reports but three cases of quas brewing since my predecessor's last report, two at or about Christmas and the other May 25. The offenders were punished by having their extra sugar supplies stopped. The evil practice has been substantially broken up by the energetic action of my predecessor, Mr. Mortonvand his and my efficient assistant, Captain Moulton. I have informed the people, through their chiefs, that the same policy will be continued. On the 28th ultimo I seized the schooner Loleta in these waters for suspected violation of law in appearing in Alaskan waters with illicit goods in her cargo. A full report of the seizure forms the subject of a separate report. I will, as soon as practicable, send the vessel in charge of an officer to the harbor of Unalaska (it being unsafe for" her to lay 'at this island for any length of time) to await the arrival of the United States revenue cutter Richard Bush. Assistant Special Agents Moulton and Scribner have been assigned to duty at St. George Island. The latter left for his post of duty on 116 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. the 30th ultimo, and the former will follow as soon as he returns from Unalaska, whither he is to go in charge of the seized vessel. Respectfully, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Special Agent Treasury Department, in Charge of Fur-Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. G. Special Agent Otis; inclosing shipping receipts. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, June 4, 1879. Sir : Herewith I have the honor to inclose certificate showing the shipment from this island of 2,884 fur-seal skins, carefully counted by me', also a certificate of Assistant Agent Scribner, showing the shipment of 600 skins from St. George Island—all of the quota of 1879. That officer reports under date of May 31, 1879, the state of seal rookeries there as being favorable, and that, in consequence of the mild winter, the season is ten days earlier than usual. Your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosures with Otis' letter of June 4,1879; shipping receipts. Island of St. George, May 31, 1879. This is to certify that 600 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's St. Paul, Captain Erskine master, for Unalaska via St. Paul Island. B. F. Scribner, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, June 4, 1879. This is to certify that 2,884 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco later in the season. Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. Special Agent Otis ; annual report for 1879. San Francisco, August 25,1879. Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report of operations on the seal, islands of St. Paul and St. George, Alaska, under my charge, for the year ending with the sealing season just closed. The lessees' steamer St. Paul, on which I took passage at San Francisco May 8 last, arrived at St. Paul Island May 27. The regular sealing season commenced on both islands June 2 and ceased July 16. The full quota of fur-seal skins allowed by law to be taken was secured in less than forty working days and shipped from the islands. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 11 r The result of the entire killing since last year's work closed is shown in the accompanying tabulated statements, marked respectively A and B. The skins were all carefully counted by myself and assistants, and the shipments were as follows: From St. Paul Island: June 4 2,884 July 17 3,038 July 19 3,956 July 21 23,100 July 22 9,968 July 23 : 12,326 July 27 7,240 July 28 17,488 80,000 From St. George Island: May 31 600 July 14 6,900 July 24 8,264 July 25 4,236 20,000 Total 100,000 Certificates covering these shipments, marked respectively C, D, E, F, G, and H, accompany my report, and duplicates have been furnished to the collector of customs at San Francisco. The steamer left St. Paul Island on her return voyage July 29 and reached San Francisco August 15, bringing from the seal islands 85,000 fur-seal skins and a quantity of seal oil. The skins have been recounted by me, with the aid of one of my assistants, Special Agent J. H. Moulton, at this port. The remainder of the quota, 15,000 skins, were left in warehouse at Unalaska to be shipped hereafter. This lot was also counted out of the ship at that port by myself and assistant. The sealing season was favorable; the "drives" were easily made, and large as a rule, and the catch was taken without difficulty. The numbers of seals of all kinds—bulls, cows, bachelors, and pups— were, it is believed, fully up to the best standard of preceding years; but no correct estimate of the aggregate can safely be given. It amounts to millions. It was not found necessary to kill all the killable seals driven, and perhaps from 10 to 25 per cent of each drive was allowed to escape, only the choicest animals being taken. After the catch had been completed large numbers of killable seals remained on the hauling grounds or about the island shores. The number of animals which perished on the drives was small, amounting to only 26, by actual count, on the island of St. George, and to perhaps 250, or one fourth of 1 per cent, on St. Paul. The mortality among the pups is small. The skins taken and accepted by the Alaska Commercial Company are all prime and of good size, averaging in weight a trifle over 8 pounds each. Care has been taken to keep the breeding rookeries undisturbed, and I consider their condition favorable. There are 9 principal breeding rookeries on St. Paul Island, and 4 on St. George. Unnecessary shooting everywhere on the islands is strictly prohibited during the period when the seals are hauled out, and all shooting whatever in the vicinity of the breeding rookeries is forbidden at all times. Otter Island is guarded by an officer and two men from the United States revenue cutter Richard Rush, who will remain on that duty until the departure of the cutter from those waters, late in September or early 118 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. in October. Eo predatory vessels had appeared about any of the islands of the Pribilof group up to the time of my departure, save the schooner Loleta, which was seized by me on the 27th of May last and the case fully reported to you at the time. Her destination, however, was the Arctic shore of Alaska. I personally visited St. George Island twice during the season, and examined into its affairs as closely as practicable. The improved condition of the seal life of this island and the increased numbers of seals this year, as reported by officers and agents statioued there, convince me that no mistake was made in increasing the island's quota of skins from 18,000 to 20,000 for 1879. This increase has, besides, had the effect of enabling a more equitable distribution of the proceeds to be made among the natives of the two islands. OIL AND OIL MANUFACTURING. By Department letter of instructions, dated April 7, 1879, I was directed as follows: You will require the Alaska Commercial Company to exhibit to you their books showing the amounts actually paid to the Indians [Unalaska Aleuts] for labor in taking the 15,000 gallons of oil last season [1878] ; also the payments which may be made for like services in taking oil during the present season, and the quantity taken, and make a full report thereof in detail at the close of the sealing season. Having complied with these instructions, I now report as follows: (1) The sum paid by the company lor labor in making oil in the season of 1878 is shown to be $1,022.92, viz: Amount paid to natives of Unalaska: Seven men working 17 months 18 days, at $30 and $40 per month, with board .- $629.82 Amount paid to natives of St. Paul Island: Two men working 4 months 26 days, with board $205.00 Nineteen men working 188 days 1 hour, at $1 per day 188.10 ! 393.10 Total 1,022.92 Being at the rate of about 6.8 cents per gallon for the 15,000 gallons made. (2) The present season 17,469 gallons of oil were made, and the sum paid for labor in making it was: Amount paid to natives of Unalaska: Six men 2 months each, at $40, with board $480.00 Fourteen men L} months each, at $30, with board 630. 00 $1,110.00 Amount paid to natives of St. Paul Island: Nine men 19 months 10 days, at from $25 to $80 per month, with board. 556.06 Total 1,666.06 Being at the rate of about 9.5 cents per gallon. It will be seen that this is a considerable increase in the reported cost per gallon of manfacturing over that of 1878. I am not advised as to the reason of that increase. Of this season's manufacture 12,076 gallons remained at St. Paul Island, five packages, 1,039 gallons, were shipped to Unalaska for the use of the natives, and the remainder, 6,249 gallons, were shipped to San Francisco. There are by the gauge marks 19,364 gallons. I had no instrument at the island for correctly gauging the oil, and if it is desired by the Department that the gauge marks be verified, I recommend that the work be done here by a regular gauger. The company claims the usual commercial discount of 10 per cent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 119 THE NATIVE PEOPLE. The native inhabitants of St. Paul Island number 262 souls, living comfortably in 62 frame houses; and those of St. George Island number 88 souls, living in like manner in 21 houses of the same kind. The vital statistics of the islands show 19 births, 6 marriages, and 21 deaths on St. Paul during the year ending December 31, 1878; and 5 births, no marriages, and 6 deaths on St*. George during the year ended July 15, 1879, when the census was last taken. It will be seen that the increase in population is slow. Since 1869 the births on St. George have been 52, and the dearths the same number. On St. Paul there has been a total natural increase of 3 souls since 1872. It is very clear that the physical and moral condition of this people has advanced under American rule, and is still slowly but steadily improving. The repressive measures enforced against the manufacture of quas, or home-brewed beer, and the use of distilled spirits of all kinds have had the effect of practically abolishing drunkenness, and the good results are apparent in the improved appearance and conduct of the people. It is unfortunate, however, that these people, whose season of labor is restricted mainly to the short summer, have so much idle time on their hands, which, being largely devoted by many of the men to eating, sleeping, and gambling, is demoralizing. The maintenance by the lessees of the English school, required by law to be kept up for eight months in each year, is having a marked beneficial effect upon the young, who make fair progress in their studies. On St. Paul Island the school is fortunate in being conducted by a native teacher, James Butrin, who possesses a good English education, and much industry, tact, and energy. The attendance at the last term averaged 39 out of a total enrollment of 42 pupils. To secure this attendance, however, required constant effort and vigilance on the part of the agents of the Government and of the lessees. The unprogress- ive parents do little to second these efforts, and require to be frequently spurred up. The English schools are under the immediate supervision of my assistants. A Russian school is also taught two hours each day by priests of the Greek church. A commodious and comfortable modern school building has recently been erected by the Alaska Commercial Company for the use of the people. . The earnings of the native workers engaged in sealing the present season were as follows: On St. Paul Island— 79,543 prime seal skins, at 40 cents $31,817.20 457 cut seal skins, at 20 cents 91.40 318 sea-lion skins, at 60 cents 190.80 9 barrels intestines, at $6 '. 54.00 Total..... 1 32,153.40 Distributed as follows— 64 first-class shares, at $410.75 26,288.00 6 second-class shares, at $369.67 2,218.02 6 third-class shares, at $328.60 U 971.60 2 fourth-class shares, at $287.52 575.04 3 special appropriations 650. 00 3 chiefs, each $150 extra ; 450.00 32,152.66 Balance to church 74 ' Total 32,153.40 >• 120 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. On St. George Island— 20,000 prime seal skins,at 40 cents $8,000* Distributed as follows— 7 shares, at $375 each ..** 2,625 7 shares, at $365 each 2,555 3 shares, at $315 each : 945 3 shares, at $270 each 810 1 share, at $275 t 275 1 share, at $210 210 1 share, at $200 j. 200 Church 380 Total .• 8,000 This is exclusive of sums earned by day work in other employments. The proceeds are distributed equitably among the people through their chiefs and head men, so that all share in the common earnings. The wants of all are provided for; they have wherewithal to feed, clothe, and warm themselves, and general contentment prevails. The lessees of the islands—the Alaska Commercial Company—have complied with the terms and conditions of their lease. The accompanying accounts current, marked I and K, show the condition of the fish, fuel, and school accounts on both islands. The fuel (60 tons coal) for the use of the natives duringthe succeeding year had been delivered before I left the islands. The salmon was yet to arrive by schooner. CONCLUSION. The important question whether the seal life of these islands is increasing or diminishing is one which I will feel more competent to confidently and definitely answer, from personal knowledge, after further observation. It is the expressed belief of reliable white observers of long experience on the seal islands, including Government officers, that the seal life is now as numerous as at any former period since the transfer of the Territory to the United States; and it is my own opinion that so long as the seals continue to visit these islands in present numbers, and at the present rate of killing, and with proper care exercised in protecting the breeding rookeries, the period of their extermination may be indefinitely postponed; but no increase in the number now annually killed ought, in my judgment, to be permitted by the Government. It is proper to say, however, that many of the native people profess to believe that the seals are decreasing in numbers on St. Paul island. In an interview with me the native chiefs ascribed the alleged fact to the presence of the steam oil works. They asserted that the steam, the odor, and the offal from these works have the effect of driving away the seals. They do not, however, ask for any reduction in the number of seals permitted to be killed. I repeat these assertions and opinions to you in compliance with a promise made to the chiefs, though I am not able to concur in their view, since my own observation and the best impartial and intelligent white testimony I could gather convince me that the presence of the oil works has no perceptible effect upon the seal life. The rookery nearest the oil works (but a few rods away) is increasing rather than diminishing. Nevertheless, if it shall ever appear that the oil factory does have the effect of driving the seals away, to even the smallest extent, its Operation should be forthwith stopped. The work of making oil has no importance to the Government or commercially when compared with the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 121 permanent preservation of the vast aggregation of precious animal life -which seeks and finds a congenial summer habitat on these remote and isolated shores. My assistants, Special Agents J. H. Moulton, B. F. Scribner, and J. W. JBeaman, have faithfully and intelligently performed the several duties assigned to them. The first named is now on leave of absence from the Department; the two latter remain on duty at the island. Having returned to San Francisco under the authority given me, and completed my report, I now have the honor to submit the same and await your further instructions. I am, sir, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands, AlasTca. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosure with Otis' annual report for 1879. A.—Statement of fur seals killed at St. Paul Island, Alaska, season of 1878-79. Seals killed by natives for food. Seal skins taken by the Alaska Commercial Company. Aggregate. Date. Rookery; co a P~ CO Fh O r—i CD O a Skins rejected. Skins accepted. CO a M CO CD a "C oo • 00 00 03 a r—' 00 a ■*" o 2 o o CD P m © o .00-2 m P CD CD oj • oo u <D fcB 03 02 CD J T5 q o 58 CD 02 ■2 ^ ® o ii © rt CD CD £=8 1878. Leftover from previous season. Zoltoi .... 388 July 30 331 294 173 211 156 144 148 149 1,142 853 133 278 525 331 291 331 294 173 211 156 144 148 149 1,380 2,000 1,255 571 1,142 853 133 278 525 162 1,627 434 1,188 1,462 498 730 997 522 1,331 914 1,110 1,176 1.053 331 Aue. 10 do 3 294 22 do 1,380 2,000 1,255 571 13 173 211 156 144 148 149 Sept. 2 14 do do 24 do Oct. 2 Lukannon 10 do Nov. 1 do 1,380 2,000 1,255 571 4 do 6 Zoltoi 8 do Tolstoi and Reef 26 141.106 99 1,128 28 do 25 778 37 815 Aug. 1- Dec. 14. INToi*thea8t Point 133 9.74 133 1879. May 19 26 Southwest and English bays.. A 278 Reef 518 7 525 June 2 do 159 3 1,606 21 434 1,180 8 1,456 6 498 728 2 993 4 519 3 1,321 10 907 7 1,101 9 1,168 8 1,0461 7 162 1,627 434 1,188 1,462 498 730 997 522 1,331 914 1,110 1,176 1,053 162 7 English and Southwest bays and Tolstoi 1,627 9 Reef 434 10 Halfway Point 1 188 11 Southwest and English bays -. 1,462 12 Tol8 toi 498 13 Reef, Zoltoi, and Keetavie 730 14 Southwest Bay and Middle Hill . 997 16 Halfway Point 522 17 Southwest Bay and Middle Hill 1,331 18 Reef, Keetavie, and Zoltoi . 914 19 Southwest and English bays.. 1 110 20 Tolstoi and Middle Hill 1,176 21 Reef, Keetavie, and Lukan- 1,053 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Statement of fur seals killed at St. Paul Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. Seals killed by natives for food. Seal skins taken by the Alaska Commercial Company. Aggregate. Date. Rookery. OS P< s OS f-t o CD o cS w Skins rejected. Skins accepted. 00 .9 3 oo • OS 00 js g 93 r^J OS O P © e> -9. ^ 02 O o OS^g C P< •rt ® M° 02 • aa 1 • os P CD P M CD P »._j P oo-g^ u p.S j5 co CD 02 CD a (k P O © CD 02 CD a •H £ ® 1® a) o b~ o ^ » flS3p®o 1879. June 16 1,525 965 1,855 1,737 1,283 2,282 1,815 1,981 1,536 1,938 1, 200 1,548 1,411 3,335 1,070 1,660 2,608 2,132 1,879 1,921 2,097 1,161 2,514 1,621 863 1,980 2,066 1,519 1,910 978 941 2,406 1,259 1,511 396 2,631 1,220 2,270 157 3 1 5 8 6 18 1. 528 1.528 1.528 17 do 966 966 966 18 do 1,860 1,860 1,860 19 do 1, 745 1 745 1,745 20 do 1, 289 1 289 1,289 23 Tolstoi and Mjddle Hill 2.300 9 300 9. 300 24 Southwest and English bays - - 7 1,822 14 1,995 6| 1,542 2 1.940 1, 822 1,822 25 1,995 1,995 26 Tolstoi, Middle Hill, English Bay, and Zoltoi 1.542 1.R42 27 Halfway Point 1,940 1.206 1,940 28 Keetavie, Lukannon, Reef, and Zoltoi 6 2 3 1,206 1,550 1.414 1 906 23 Northeast Point 1, 550 1, 550 24 do 1, 414 1,414 25 do 4 1, 339 1, 339 1, 339 26 do 4 1.074 1.074 1.074 27 do 5 1,665 1,665 1,665 30 Tolstoi and Middle Hill 9 2,617 2,617 2,617 July 1 English Bay 16 2.148 2.148 2. 148 2 6 1,885 11 1,932 1, 885 1 885 3 Tolstoi and Middle Hill 1 939 1 939. 4 English Bay 9 2,106 2,106 2,106 5 7 1, 168 10 2,524 7 1. 698 1,168 2,524 1 fi98 1 168 June 30 Northeast Point 2 524 Julv 1 do 1 fi98 S 2 do 3 866 866 866 3 do 8' 1. 988 1.988' 1.988 4 do 11 2. 077 2. 077 2. 077 7 Tolstoi and Middle Hill 9 1,528 1,528 1 920 1,528 8 Zoltoi, Keetavie, and Lukan- 10 5 7 12 5 8 2 21 13 12 1,920 983 948 2,418 1,264 1,519 398 2,652 1,233 2. 28<> 1 990 9 983 983 10 do 948 948 7 Northeast Point 2,418 2,418 8 do 1.9R4 1.9.64. 9 do 1,519 1,519 10 do 398 2,652 1,233 2 282 398 14 Zoltoi '- 2,652 15 1,233 16 Middle Hill, Tolstoi, and Lukannon • 2,282 157 16 do 157 157 Total 5,206 4,537 5,219 1 0903 431 73 76,297 SRsbfi fiSO 8fi 493lsn K79 Total shipment, quota of 1879 80, 000 Remaining on hand, to be charged to quota of 1880 572 1 1 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 12? o B.—Statement of fur seals killed at St. George Island, Alaska, season of 1878-79 Seals killed by natives for food. Seal skins taken by the Alaska Commercial Company. Aggregate. Date. Rookery. 00 ft . p OS u o 'CD O 03 PQ Skins rejected. u P^s -P g bB P 02 oo oo +5 ft CD CD ag 00 p M 00 CD . p "G (k Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Whole number seals killed. Whole number skins accepted. 1878-79. July 28- > North 1,127 316 811 1,127 1,500 69 450 105 811 May 19 1878. Nov 1 15 do 1,500 1,500 1879. ....do 69 445 1U5 413 372 445 498 755 473 430 515 574 882 522 286 1,176 1,584 1,412 849 ■ 351 535 1,738 1,261 1,836 863 1,369 69 445 105 413 372 445 498 755 473 430 515 574 882 522 286 1,176 1,584 1,412 849 351 535 1,738 1,261 1,836 863 1,369 5 69 10 East . 445 11 Southwest Bay.. ....... 105 12 .... 413 413 13 Southwest Bay.. "4" "I' "2 6 2 1 3 11 2 37' 2 4 372 445 502 755 473 434 515 576 888 524 287 1,179 1,595 1,414 849 351 535 1,775 1,263 1,840 863 1,369 372 16 East . 445 17 Southwest Bay.. 498 19 Starry Ateel and North. 755 20 East 473 20 Southwest Bay.. 1 430 23 North and Starry Ateel 515 23 Southwest Bay 574 25 East 882 25 Southwest Bay 522 27 do „ 286 27 North and Starry Ateel 1,176 30 East 1,584 July 3 North and Starry Ateel 1,412 849 4 do 351 5 North 535 7 East 1,738 8 North and Starry Ateel 1,261 14 East '. , 1,836 16 North 863 16 Southwest Bay 1,369 Total Total shipment, quota of 1879 1,500 1,127 1,500 316 811 19, 758 19,758 83 122,468 20, 569 20,000 Remaining on hand, to be charged to quota of 1880 569 . Inclosure xoith Otis' annual report for 1879. C. Island of St. Paul, June 4,1879. This is to certify that 2,884 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine, master, destined for San Francisco. Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent, in Charge. D. Island of St. Paul, July 29,1879. This is to certify that since June 4, 1879 (date of last certificate), 77,116 fur-seal skins have heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, making in all 80,000 shipped from this island during the present season. Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent, in Charge. 124 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. E. Island of St. George, May SI, 1879. This is to certify that 600 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master. B. F. SCRIBNEB, First Assistant Treasury Agent. F. Island of St. George, July 14,1879. This is to certify that 6,900 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master, to San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. G. Island of St. George, July 24,1879. This is to certify that 8,264 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master, for San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. H. Island of St. George, July 25.1879. This is to certify that 4,236 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master, for San Francisco, Cal. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. I.—Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, in account with St. Paul Island, Alaska, May SI, 1879. Dr. Aug. —, 1878. To amount of salmon required to he furnished for consumption by the natives, 60 barrels. Aug. —, 1878. To amount of coal required to be furnished for use of natives, 40 tons. Aug. —, 1878. To barrels and salt required to be furnished for preservation of meat, requisite numbers and quantities. Sept. 2, 1878. To maintenance of school as required bylaw, eight months. Oct. —, 1878. To shipments of fur-seal skins from the. island to date, 82,000 skins. Cr. Aug. —, 1878. By amount of salmon supplied for use of natives, 60 barrels. Aug. —, 1878. By amount of coal supplied for use of natives, 40 tons. Ang. —, 1878. By barrels and salt supplied, for preservation of meat, requisite number and quantity: 3?v& May 8, 1879. By maintenance of school as required by law, eight months, commencing September 2, 1878; closing May 8, 1879. I certify that the above account is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge, eto. K.—Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, in account with Si. George Island, Alaska, May SI, 1879. Dr. Aug. 10, 1878. To shipment of 12,058 seal skins, taken during the months of June and .inly, 1878,.and shipped to San Francisco, Cal., per steamer St. Paul. Oct. 3,1878. To shipment of 5,942 seal skins, taken during the months of June and July, 1878, and shipped to Unalaska, per schooner Bella, for transshipment to San Francisco. Cal. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Cr. 125 Aug. 18,1878. By 20 barrels salmon for distribution to natives. 20 tons coal for distribution to natives. Barrels and salt for the preservation of meat have been furnished iu such numbers and quantities as demanded. Maintenance of school eight months, commencing September 2, 1878, and closing May \, 1879. I certify that the above account is correct. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Agent at Seal Fisheries. 1880. Special Agent Gtis; preliminary report for 1880. Washington, D. 0., March 29,1880. Sir : I have the honor to present for your consideration the following subjects connected with affairs at the seal islands of Alaska and to ask for your instructions thereon: (1) Under its lease and section 1962, Eevised Statutes, the Alaska Commercial Company claims, in abeyance, the right of taking 100,000 fur-seal skins upon the islands of St. Paul and St. George, independently and outside of the number of prime skins which may be taken by law from seals killed by the natives for food. Heretofore the uniform practice has been for the company to accept and count in its quota all prime skins taken by the natives from seals killed by them for food, outside of the regular sealing season, when such skins were not required by them for their own clothing. In this way the whole number of prime skins annually taken and shipped from the islands has been kept within the limit of 100,000 provided by law. To grant the claim set up by the Alaska Commercial Company would increase this number by several thousands. The number of prime skins taken by the natives on their own account during the last sealing season, sold to the Alaska Commercial Company and accepted by it as a part of its quota of 1879, was, for both islands, 4,315. In the absence of specific instructions from the Department on this point, I shall consider it my duty to resist this claim of the company, notwithstanding the apparent color of law under which it is made. (See section 1962, Eevised Statutes.) I ask instructions in the premises and an authoritative interpretation of the statute governing the case. (2) By Department letter dated April 7, 1879 (A. K. T.-E. W. C), I was instructed to report in detail, at the close of the sealing season of 1879, the amount of seal oil manufactured by the Alaska Commercial Company in 1878 and in 1879, the cost of its manufacture as shown by the books of the company, and the difference between the whole cost and the amount of the tax of 10 cents per gallon imposed by the Department. In compliance with those instructions, I reported, under date of August 25,1879, that the amount of oil manufactured in 1878 was 15,000 gallons, at a total cost of $1,022.92; and that the amount manufactured in 1879 was 17,469 gallons, at a total cost of $1,666.06. It will thus be seen that the tax on the whole quantity of oil manufactured in the two years amounts to $3,246.90. Deducting the reported cost of manufacture, $2,688.98, a difference of $557.92 is shown. It appears that the Alaska Commercial Company (having paid the native laborers II 126 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. by the day for their work in manufacturing this oil) ask that the difference that they are required to pay be devoted to the general welfare of the people of the islands. The question of the disposition of this fund having been before the Department, but still remaining undecided, I respectfully recommend that the sum in question, $557.92, be devoted to the construction of waterworks on St. Paul Island. This improvement will, in my judgment, prove of more practical benefit to all the people concerned than any other which could be made with the money. At present water for domestic purposes has to be hauled a considerable distance to the village, and in winter it is frequently difficult to procure for several days together, owing to the bad weather, the spring and the roads becoming obstructed by snow and ice. This makes it necessary for the people to procure water by melting snow in their houses, thus keeping them more or less damp, filthy, and unhealthy. The project of distributing water through the village by means of pipes would be a substantial benefit to the people of the island, which I urgently recommend. (3) In his official report of his last cruise in Alaskan waters in the United States revenue cutter Richard Rush, the late Capt. George W. Bailey, formerly commanding that vessel, expressed the opinion (at page 13 of the printed report) "that it is not necessary to locate an officer and men from the vessel on Otter Island; and that now, there being two special agents during the season at each island, an occasional visit by them in their boat from St. Paul to Otter Island would be sufficient for its protection." In this recommendation I concur so far as it relates to the officer, who can be relieved by myself or assistant. It will be necessary, however, in order to effectively watch Otter Island, to have the special agents furnished with a suitable boat and at least two men to man it. These might be supplied by the cutter, and can be returned to it when she touches at the island for the last time in the fall. I recommend this course, and ask that the necessary instructions be given. (4) I am asked by the native chiefs of St. Paul Island to present to the Secretary of the Treasury the case of one Kassian Shaisnekoff, a temporary resident of the island, who has never been admitted to the privilege of participating in the work of sealing for the reason that, though a native of the island he was living away from it (at Unalaska) when the country came into possession of the United States. He subsequently returned to the island as a temporary laborer, and at his own request (and being a brother to the local priests) was permitted to remain on sufferance, but was ruled out as a sealer by my predecessor, Mr. Morton, in common with other natives who had been permitted to come to the island simply as temporary laborers under authority of the Department. Shaisnekoff has been given miscellaneous employment by the Alaska Commercial Company, and at the close of each sealing season has generally been presented with the sum of $100 by the people, out of their sealing fund. I would recommend that the request made in his behalf be granted, were it not for the fact that it would constitute a precedent for the return of several natives of St. George Island who have never lived there since the transfer of the country, and whose advent at this late period, in the capacity of sealers, would doubtless be construed as an injustice to the people who have the prescriptive right to take seals, and who would be sure to strenuously object to the newcomers. I think this claim in behalf of Shaisnekoff would not have been urged were it not for his relationship to the local priests. I, however, report the case to you as it is, and await your decision thereon, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 127 as well as upon any other matters connected with the seal islands which may in your judgment require it. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Special Agent Treasury Department, in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. John Sherman, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent Otis; preliminary report for 1880. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, June 8, 1880. . Sir: I have the honor to report my arrival at this island on the 31st ultimo by the steamer St. Paul, thirty days out from San Francisco. The steamer reached St. George Island on the 20th of May, finding the shores of the island free from ice; but the presence of heavy pack ice about the shores of St. Paul Island prevented her from effecting a landing here till ten days later, and then only after the fourth attempt. The weather at the seal islands during the past winter is reported as having been exceptionally severe, the mercury falling to 18° F. below zero at this island and to 8° F. below zero at St. George. The sealing season is consequently somewhat backward jj it has, indeed, not fairly commenced. Keferring to Department letter of April 17, 1880 (H. B. J.-P.), touching the matter of leaves of absence to the Treasury agents here, I have the honor to report that I have communicated the directions therein contained to my assistants for their information and guidance. Special Agent Scribner, now on duty at this island, will avail himself of the leave granted him at the close of this sealing season. Special Agent Moulton remains on duty at St. George Island. It seems that Special Agent Beaman (who has been transferred to St. George) had some months since formed and declared a purpose to leave the islands this season, for reasons of his own, either with or without authority from the Department. I have informed him that I can not control his movements in that matter, if he is determined to go, and that he must be his own judge whether to take such a step without proper authority. I am not advised at this writing whether he still adheres to his determination, since learning the recent orders of the Secretary referred to above; nor can I know at this time what his purposes may be at the close of the sealing season when the steamer leaves for San Francisco. But in the unanticipated contingency of his carrying out his threat, -I will remain here myself until the arrival of another officer or until further orders. I offer to do this in order to meet the requirements of the Department and the necessities of the case, which demand the constant presence of not less than two officers of the Government at these islands at all times, and notwithstanding the fact that authority heretofore given me authorizes me to absent myself during the winter. I forward this letter at the earliest opportunity, in order to give an opportunity for a reply to reach me by the steamer Dora, which it is 128 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. understood will be dispatched to San Francisco soon and start on her return voyage between the 15th and 25th of July, probably. I am, sir, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. G. Special Agent Otis; preliminary report for 1880. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, HJ St. Paul Island, July 1, 1880. Sir : I have the honor to report that on the 9th ultimo the United States revenue cutter Thomas Corwin touched at this island on her northern cruise, when Captain Hooper, commanding, represented to me that, in view of the possibility of his being compelled to winter with his ship in the Arctic Ocean, he required fur clothing for his crew, and asked permission to procure what are known as "pup" seal skins here for that purpose if the same could be lawfully and properly obtained. His request appearing to me to be reasonable, I made an exception to the existing rule in consequence of the exceptional character of the cutter's mission to the frozen ocean, and issued, to Captain Hooper a written permit to take such number of this description of skins as he required for the use of his crew's clothing and might be able to procure on the island, on condition that the skins so procured be used exclusively for clothing and not for sale or barter. Under this authority he took on board 386 pup skins taken from young seals about 4 mouths old, lawfully killed last fall by the native people for food. These skins not being of the requisite marketable size, or fit for acceptance by the Alaska Commercial Company as part of their lawful quota, I requested Captain Hooper to report the transaction to you, which I also do myself, asking your sanction of my course. In this connection I have to state that the rule at these islands in reference to traffic in this class of skins has been to prohibit their shipment, except in the form of blankets or manufactured clothing, on the ground that there is no express authority, either in law or orders, for shipping from the seal islands any greater number of seal skins than the maximum number (100,000) allowed by law to be taken annually by the Alaska Commercial Company under their lease. Evasions of this rule have frequently been attempted, and it is not easy of strict enforcement where scores of native people are found with these skins in their possession and eager to trade with every vessel touching at the islands. The matter would seem to turn on the questions of the true ownership of this class of skins, the right of the native people to traffic in them, and the right of the Alaska Commercial Company, or of its agents, to buy and ship fur-seal skins of any number, kind, or class not embraced in the terms of its contract or included in its annual quota of prime skins. It is claimed that pup skins are not seal skins in a commercial sense, they being of undersize and not of recognized or established commercial value; and further, that being taken from seals killed by the native people "for their own food and clothing," as authorized bylaw, such skins belong to these people as their own exclusive property. The true point is, What does the law authorize1? It is clear that it gives no ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 129 authority for the natives to traffic in skins or skin clothing, but only authorizes the killing by them of such number of seals "as maybe necessary for their own food and clothing" during other months than June, July, September, and October of every year. If the claim set up be conceded, and the United States makes no claim to ownership in this class of skins, and the right of free trade be acknowledged the natives, then it is plain that the restrictions upon shipment should be removed; not otherwise. As a matter of fact, there are no seals, either young or old, killed on these islands exclusively for native clothing. All the pups and larger young seals killed by the native people, under section 1 of the " act to prevent the extermination of fur-bearing animals in Alaska," are killed for food. The people use little or no fur clothing, and are, therefore, under no necessity of killing seals for that purpose exclusively. The number of seals so killed for food was, on both islands, in 1878-79, as shown by my last annual report, 6,706 pups and 6,264 large young seals; in all, 12,970. About 75 per cent of the skins from the last-named class were accepted by the Alaska Commercial Company and counted as part of their quota; the remainder were rejected as stagey and worthless, and thrown away. I believe the Alaska Commercial Company, as a company, have refused to handle these pup skins, the officers saying that there is nothing in the traffic, and that they do not wish to render themselves or the company liable to censure for improper conduct in the observance of the terms of their lease. Yet individuals are constantly seeking to clandestinely ship pup skins from the islands upon the company's vessels, giving the Treasury officials more annoyance than the whole regular catch. The price of these skins here is from 40 to 60 cents each, and they sometimes fetch $ L on vessels, where they are a novelty and much sought after. What they are worth or would fetch in the markets of the world I am not informed. The question of limiting or restricting the number of pup fur seals heretofore allowed to be killed annually for food becomes pertinent here. The proviso in the law, "that the natives of said islands shall have the privilege of killing such young seals as may be necessary for their own food and clothing," etc., need not necessarily, as I interpret it, include any seals of the class known as "pup" seals, but may be confined to those of an age fit to furnish marketable skins, if the Secretary of the Treasury so direct. It is true that the meat of the large young seals, when salted, is not preferred by the native people, but it is eaten with avidity by their countrymen of the Aleutian Isles, to which large quantities are shipped during the regular sealing season which otherwise would be left to rot on the killing grounds. This class of meat food could be eaten by the seal islanders as well, and without any serious hardship, I think. It is their regular meat food during the killing season proper, and is usually eaten fresh. The pup meat is salted for winter use. I do not represent that it is absolutely necessary to cut off the preferred source of native food or recommend any restriction in their present abundant supply of seal meat; but the subject is one of sufficient importance, in my judgment, to engage your attention. Under the present admirable system of legal protection to the fur seals of these islands, this precious animal life is still very abundant, and the full number of seals allowed by law to be killed annually can be taken without detriment to the integrity of the race. Yet, in view of the large mortality which occurs among the seals while absent from H. Doc. 92 9 130 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. these islands, and in view of the great value of this peculiar interest of the Government and the people concerned, a wise provision would seem to dictate the adoption of the most careful and effective measures looking to the permanent preservation of the fur-seal life in all its abundauce indefinitely. Not to speak of the heavy mortality caused among the younger seals by their natural enemies in the sea, the destruction by man of the larger seals for the sake of their skins while on their annual journeys northward to the seal islands has latterly grown to be very considerable. Several vessels are said to be engaged in this business along the island and mainland shores to the eastward and southward. 1 have been reliably informed that the number of fur-seal skins taken in the Straits of Fuca and adjacant waters last year was several thousands, and that under the stimulus of the present high prices of furs it will pretty certainly reach 10,000 or 12,000 this year. A large proportion of the seals so killed are said to be pregnant females. This is "killing the goose that lays the golden egg.^ I have thus stated these facts to you impartially, and submit the information for your consideration and such action as in your judgment the nature of the case may require. I am not able to find on record in this office any specific Department rules or decisions applicable to the points here raised, and respectfully ask for instructions upon the following points particularly: (1) Is not the ownership in all the fur seals which haul out upon the land at the seal islands of Alaska (a Government reservation by law) vested in the United states? (2) Are the skins of young fur seals, or " pups," so called, which may by law be killed by the native people " for their own food," the property of such people when not required or used " for their own clothing?" (3) Or are such skins the property of the United States? (4) If it be decided that such skins are the property of the native people, shall they have the right of free trade in them, either in the form of manufactured clothing, blankets, or as dressed or undressed pelts? (5) Shall the restrictions heretofore placed upon the shipment of such skins be maintained and enforced? (6) Is the Alaska Commercial Company to be treated as having any exclusive permit to trade as well as to take seal skins? It is proper for me to explain that perhaps not more than 50 or 60 per cent of these pup seal skins taken are preserved and dressed, thus showi ig tliat the people are careless and improvident of them. This considerable waste would necessarily be increased if the people should be deprived entirely of a market for their skins, unless the United States were to assert an ownership in and take possession of the skins. They afford some revenue, and it would be wiser to let the people have it than to destroy it altogether by cutting off the market or throwing away the skins. I ask your instructions upon the whole subject. The work of sealing is pr< >gressing satisfactorily. About 43,000 skins have been taken up to this date on St. Paul Island and a proportionate number on St. George. The catch is but slightly below last year's figures at this date. Kumors of intended raids by predatory vessels upon the seal islands have reached my ears from various sources. How much truth there may be in these rumors I know not, but it is well known that there are a number of lawless traders, acquainted with these waters and ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 131 islands, who would willingly make a descent upon the seals if they were given the opportunity. If any such raids are made they may be expected late in the fall, upon the return of the predatory vessels from the Arctic Ocean, going southward. I do not anticipate any serious forcible attempt to violate the law in the manner indicated, but it would be a desirable safeguard for the revenue cutter to prolong "her stay in these waters (upon her return from the Arctic), to the latest practicable date in the fall. The Alaska Commercial Company has a telephone in operation from St. Paul village to the northeast point of the island, where the descent would probably be made. I am, sir, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Assistant Agent Moulton; inclosing statistics of seal catch. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, July 20, 1880. Sir: In compliance with your verbal request made to me while in Washington, I respectfully inclose herewith a statement of seals killed on St. George Island from 1870 to 1879. I have been unable to get a statement from St. Paul, as I have not visited that island since my return, but will do so the first opportunity that I may have, and will forward a statement to your address. Yery respectfully, your obedient servant, J. H. Moulton, Assistant Agent, Seal Islands. Hon. H. B. James, Hi Chief of Customs, Treasury Department, Washington, D. C. Statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, 1870 to 1879. Tear. Number killed. Number killed for food. Accepted by Alaska Commercial Company. Shipments. 1870 8,659 21,167 27, 000 27,148 12, 490 11, 533 11, 779 16, 577 20, 590 22,243 1,200 2,090 2,000 2,191 2,446 1,752 2,020 1,533 2,627 2,378 7,259 14, 838 25, 000 25,000 10, 000 10, 000 10. 000 15, 000 18,000 20, 000 (a) 1871 1872 30,051 27 780 1873 i 1874 10 000 1875 10 000 1876 10 000 1877 15 000 1878 18 000 1879 20 000 a No record of shipment. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Agent, Seal Islands. 132 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Otis; annual report for 1880. Office Special Agkent Treasury Department, In Charge of Seal Islands, St. Paul Island, July 30, 1880. , Sir : I have the honor to submit the following report on the results of the sealing season just closed on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, and other affairs of the seal islands during the year which has elapsed since my last annual report. sealing operations. The regular sealing season was begun by the Alaska Commercial Company on this island on the 1st day of June; the respective quotas of fur seals allowed by law to be killed on the two islands having first been fixed by me for 1880 on the basis of 1879, viz, 80,000 on St. Paul and 20,000 on St. George Island. Killing continued on St. Paul, with some interruptions, until the 17th day of July, when the island's full quota had been completed. Thirty-five working days were consumed in the work—two more than in 1879. On St. George Island the sealing season commenced June 3 and closed July 9, one week earlier than in 1879. The full catch of this island was completed in twenty-three working days—six less than were required last year. The results of the entire sealing operations of the year are shown in detail by the accompanying tabulated statements, marked, respectively, A and B. It will be seen that the prime skins taken from all animals, Nsave | pups," killed for food since the close of the sealing season of 1879 are included I as part of the taxable quota of the Alaska Commercial Company," in accordance with the Department's instructions of April 8, 1880. All the shipments of fur-seal skins were made and certified after actual and careful count by the Treasury agents, and were as follows: From St. Paul Island: June 7, 1880, per steamer St. Paul 2,270 June 30, 1880, per steamer Dora 12,184 July 21, 22, 23, 27, 29, 30, 1880, per steamer St. Paul 65, 546 80,000 From St. George Island: May 22, 1880, per steamer St. Paul 1,132 July 24,1880, per steamer St. Paul 12,692 July 26,1880, per steamer St. Paul 6,176 20,000 Total from both islands 100,000 Certificates covering all these shipments are herewith, being marked, respectively, C, D, E, F> G, and H. Duplicates have been furnished to the masters of the vessels on which the shipments were made, and copies mailed to the collector of customs at the port of San Francisco. THE SEAL LIFE. I am glad to be able to report the seal life of these islands as still abundant and in satisfactory and promising condition. Seals of all classes and ages, and of both sexes, have appeared upon the hauling grounds and breeding rookeries during the present season in countless numbers. The grand aggregate can not even be approximated with ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 133 any degree of correctness. As well as I can judge, after close observation, it is increased rather than diminished since last year. Several of the principal rookeries and hauling grounds show a steady and unmistakable expansion over former years. Others show some changes in their boundaries, but no contraction is apparent. On the sand beaches, bluffs, and plateaus, apart from the breeding rookeries, there is a conspicuous surplus of large males without harems—capable bulls who have been elbowed out of the family circle. This fact may be taken as evidence that more than enough young males have been annu- ually spared in recent years to supply all the requirements for breeding purposes. The size of the harems (which are each lorded over by a single big bull) varies greatly. As a rule they embrace from fifteen to twenty cows each, occasionally as many as forty and even fifty, frequently not more than from three to five. One fact is quite evident: The bulls invariably gather about them as many cows as each can court, cajole, or capture, be the number more or less. After the killing of more than 75,000 young male seals, or bachelors, on St. Paul Island within the short space of six weeks, a very large number of good, killable animals remain. On St. George Island, as shown by the report of Assistant Treasury Agent Moulton, the same favorable condition of the seal life substantially obtains, the animals appearing in lesser numbers, of course. Captain Moulton says: All classes of seals are here in the usual numbers, the class required for their skins arriving in greater numbers in June of this year than in June of last year. All the breeding rookeries are in the most satisfactory condition, there not being apparently any falling off in the numbers of breeding seals, either male or female. After frequent and. careful inspection of the several breeding rookeries, I am of opinion that no injury has been done to the seal life by taking 20,000 seals for their skins. I have visited this island (St. George) since the close of the sealing season, and found many killable seals on the hauling grounds, and can verify the above opinion of my assistant. After this, my second season's, experience at the seal islands, I am satisfied that the maximum number (100,000) of seals allowed by law to be killed annually for their skins may be taken each year in the future without detriment to this valuable interest of the Government and people and without endangering the indefinite perpetuity of the seal life, unless, indeed, unknown enemies rise up and destroy it, or the animals change their habits and seek other resorts for their kind, of which there is now no apparent prospect. How much impression may in time be made upon their numbers here by the reported lawless and indiscriminate killing of female seals in and about the Straits of Fuca on their annual migrations northward it is difficult to estimate. I have heretofore called your attention to this waste. THE NATIVE PEOPLE. The native population of St. Paul Island, as shown by the census taken on the 1st of January, 1880, embraced 83 resident families and a total of 278 souls. During the year there were 9 marriages, 19 births, and 18 deaths on this island. St. George Island, by the census taken July 1, 1880, had a total population of 92 souls j the families numbered 25, and there were 4 marriages, 5 births, and 6 deaths during the year. The natural increase in population is thus shown to be very slow; in fact, the population of the islands has remained stationary since my 134 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. last annual report (save the slight increase caused by marriages of women from abroad), and this despite the fact that the condition of the people in the matter of physical comforts and wealth is exceptionally good for a primitive race. Chronic diseases of long standing, and diseases of a scrofulous character seem to be deep rooted in the constitutions of this simple people. The earnings of the native sealers on St. Paul Island amounted for the year to $32,104.40 (not including considerable payments for miscellaneous labor), obtained from the following sources, viz: 79,445 prime seal skins, at 40 cents $31,778.00 555 cut seal skins, at 20 cents 111. 00 264 sea-lion skins, at 60 cents 158.40 9£ barrels intestines, at $6 57.00 Total 32,104.40 This aggregate sum was divided by the chiefs and people upon a community plan of their own and distributed among the entire resident native population in the following proportions, viz: 61 first-class shares at $406.55 $24,799.55 16 second-class shares at $369.05 5, 904.80 2 third-class shares at $300 600.00 4 special appropriations 350.05 3 chiefs, each $150 extra 450.00 Total t 32,104.40 Three first-class shares, amounting to $1,219.65, were appropriated to pay for the translation of the Russian Church service into the Aleutian language. The earnings of the native sealers on St. George Island amounted to $8,000, being the proceeds of 20,000 prime seal skins at 40 cents each, which sum was divided and distributed as follows: 10 shares, at $400 $4,000.00 4 shares, at $385 1,540.00 5 shares, at $272 ; 1,360.00 2 shares, at $50 100.00 Church appropriation 1,000.00 Total 8,000.00 In addition to the above there was earned by the St. George people during the year the sum of $2,135,25 by taking sea-lion and fox skins and performing other labor. Repressive measures heretofore used against the manufacture and use of quas, or home-brewed beer, have been continued with good effect. Drunkenness among the people has been reduced to the minimum. I consider this course necessary to the salvation of this people. There is good reason to believe that with free trade in rum and furs on these islands, both people and seals would practically disappear within the next decade. The venerable Bishop Nestor, head of the Russian Greek Church in America, visited these islands early in the present season on a religious mission. He preached to the people, and, in compliance with the expressed wish of the President, instructed theni in the principles of a purer morality and a higher form of civilization, reminding them of their duties, religious and civil, and adjuring them to abandon the evils ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 135 of drunkenness, gambling, filthiness, and the like. How long or how far his good advice will be remembered and heeded is problematical. English schools have been maintained during eight months of the year on both islands. They were well taught, and the progress made by the pupils in their studies was not discreditable. The attendance on the St. George School was good, being 100 per cent of the whole number of pupils enrolled (24). There Was something of a falling off in the attendance on this island over that of the j>receding year, the percentage being but 75 of the enrollment (40). THE ALASKA COMMERCIAL COMPANY. The lessees of the islands have faithfully and liberally complied with all the terms and conditions of their contract with the Government, and have shown themselves willing and ready to meet all requirements of the Department and of its officers stationed on the islands. The quantities of salmon, coal, barrels, and salt, required to be furnished by them for the use of the native inhabitants have been supplied, as shown by the accompanying accounts current, marked I and K. The supplies of food, clothing, etc., kept for sale have been generally abundant in quantity (with a single noteworthy exception), good i quality, and sold at average moderate prices. The widows and orphan have been supported gratuitously, and the people have, as a rule, been justly and kindly treated. The company has constructed a telephone line connecting St. Paul village with the northeast point of the island, where the largest rookery is located, several new houses for native occupancy are in course of erection. The construction of the waterworks heretofore agreed upon will probably be commenced and comrjletecl the present season if the necessary material arrives. No seal oil has been made this year. The exception noted above in the food supply for native consumption occurred on St. George Island last spring, when the people were without white flour or hard bread for a period of about six weeks previous to the arrival of the company's steamer, on the 20th of May. The supply of brown flour did not fail entirely, however. The deficiency was owing, as I have ascertained, to an unintentional underestimate in making the provision requisition, and to an unexpectedly heavy consumption in proportion to the population, judged by the standard of former years. The natives being essentially a meat-eating people, however, no suffering ensued, as all other necessary supplies were abundant. The principal agent of the company has assured me that no deficiency shall occur hereafter, and that at least six months' extra supply of flour and bread will always be kept on hand at the station. VESSELS TOUCHING AT SEAL ISLANDS. No predatory vessels have appeared in these waters during the past year. In compliance with instructions, Otter Island has been twice visited by myself and one of my assistants during the season, and other visits will occasionally be made to it by me during this fall to watch for predatory vessels. There is n>3 fur-seal breeding rookery on the island, but a few thousand seals haul out there to rest and sleep. 136 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The following is a list of vessels touching at St. Paul Island since my last report: Big. Name of vessel. Master's name. Arrived. Departed. Character of voyage. TJ. S. revenue cutter. Schooner Richard Rush Bella Bailey Petersen Bailey Hague Williams Anderson Erskine Hooper Erskine Hescoth, owner. Hague Erskine do 1879. Aug. 9 Aug. 31 Sept. 28 Oct. 12 1880. Apr. 25 do ... May 31 June 9 June 18 June 25 June 28 Julv 13 July 20 July 27 1879. Aug. 10 Aug. 31 Sept. 29 Oct. 14 1880. Apr. 25 Apr. 20 June 7 June 9 June 20 June 26 July 1 July 13 July 23 July 30 Cruising for Government. Business of Alaska Com IT. S. revenue cutter. Schooner Brig Richard Rush St. George Hidalgo mercial Company. Cruising for Government. Business of Alaska Commercial Company. On voyage to Arctic. Schooner Steamer Matthew Turner.. St. Paul Business of Alaska Commercial Companv. Do. TJ. S. revenue cutter. Steam er .. Thomas Corwin .. St. Paul Cruising for Government. Business of Alaska Com Steam yacht'... Steamer - Lancashire Witch (English). mercial Company. Pleasure voyage around the world. Business of Alaska Com "Do St. Paul mercial Company. I)o do Do. Do do do .. Do. Of the above, the company's vessels and the United States revenue cutters touch at St. George Island also. Assistant Treasury Agent J. H. Moulton remains in charge of St. George Island, his assignment to St. Paul having been revoked by me on account of the departure of Assistant Agent Beaman. Assistant Agent B. P. Scribner, formerly on duty at St. George Island and latterly here, avails himself of the leave of absence granted him in Department letter dated April 17,1880, and embarks for San Francisco on the steamer St. Paul, sailing to-day. Both he and Assistant Agent Moulton have discharged their several duties in a faithful and officer - like manner. Assistant Agent Beaman, carrying into effect a threat first expressed nearly a year ago and frequently since, has for personal reasons taken the responsibility of leaving his post of duty and these islands without authority from the Treasury Department, and also in defiance of my own previous and formal disapproval of his course. He embarked from St. George Island on the 24th instant. 1 report the facts for your information and action thereon. In this state of the case (it being impracticable to hear from the Department again before next year) I am constrained by a sense of duty to waive the privilege heretofore officially granted me in the matter of leaves of absence and to remain on duty here during the coming winter, in order that the requirements of the Department, demanding the constant presence of at least two of its agents at the seal islands, may be fulfilled. I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. h ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 137 <^> J Oi II °o 1 o oo »\ 00 CD sp cS OJO CD Ph bO 1 Whole number of seals killed. A" esi cooo coco c© ift ITS Hr-OOOrlOC OS - (NtH r- THC35CMCD-HHrH(M«DCOt> HCTjIOOOOraOOK CMrHrHrHrHC33-^CNCC T^vii-^T^ rHr-T 0ST)IC0t-C00SC0-*t<i0OC003C<l OtiIHOKMOOCOOCOCSOHC CMCM<N->*OS00lxMt-OSt-CO0C r-T r-T rH "■4 Whole number of skins accepted by Alaska Commercial Company. CM t~- CO t> O rH ITS 00 CO CM ITS-* CM CO ■* CO CO CO -* (M ■* CO O CO 00 tH CO ^*l ■** CO O -H< rH OS CM 00 CO O CO OS O rH O CMOOrH CMCMCM-*OS00t-CMt~OSl.— COOO rH~ r-T 1-4 r-T CO 02 _^ °3 4=> 1 P CD -H •*H M CD 4= CD M g 1 •l-i m co h ® A °° o S 5 a " O M CO rH rH rH 4= § CM CM i-HrH HI Hi CM <9 4= ft CD © O c3 os 1 CO if* 5 * o 02 O i-H-*00O>OS(MOSt-t-0C CM rH rH CD a «iH Ph CO rH COlftCMCOCOlOrHrHCOrHCC r-it-CMt-lCOSlOOOOSOO- CN-^OSOOt^rHL^OSCOCOt- rH~ rH r-T o ,o Cw CD > c3 | u ,o SH p CD l-H r—t I CD 4=> O CD M CO 1 co 4= 1 o 00 1 CD CJO c3 4= CO CM 35 owcoio r-i <3i co OCOHOO rH O CD Clr-i rH CM rH CN) OS lO CO rH CO rH 1 HI SB rH OS CO -* rH CO OP C- O CO o 00 rH rH OJ rH r-Tr-T lO CO CD fefi • oDPI,2 § 2 «s rt O CD Hi ^^ m os Miocom i-H a co © OO rH 00 rH O CO CM rH i-H CM rH CM CMCOOO t~ OS-* CO O O CO © -* ^tt CM CO CM CM l-H r-l" s 1 rH OSCO-sJtrH t-ooo o 00 rH rH OS rH r-Tr-l" CD O o | oc «(- c f e cc t Cl- c f- cc c I CC I 1 4= _P (X 4= cc cc 1 c °5 c CC P DC 'J CC p a p c § r; 1 r- -1 H *c 1 > s p: p a c CC rr; ci 1 'c P- cc c 1 n i Hi "S p OO »r- CD C |£ P- += ac pi « O « CO rC 4^ C .a * o Ph > B 4= -^ c0+=+= O S XT. IcS^ +2" J: rS^ 'o o'E o'Zi'c SI IS - t> CC (£ (^ r1" P c oj r^ 1 CC p c c; a r-^ g 4= c; 1 Pi § "c f- 1 C|- <£ CC PC > e; r- a cc | 4^ c a: p Cv 4= g fL 4= CC CC a i c 1 > cr 1 1 « 1 r- I 4= 4i a. « I 1 P CC CC r»> o3 PQ 4= 03' CD 43 **- zi « o <£ Ulr- C 4= a "c t- t; P a > cj r* a 1 P 1 > C5 H- 0 t. 1 p c; 4= | dp 1 CC ■a 3 ■J 4= C P- > 1 cc 'c 4= C(- c CC p: > a rr r- a ■fe P § "^ CC P CC ts; <£ r*. r£ :<s 'c c N CC '> HCC \± 1 PC a I r£ d 1 C s« I i C c: 1 re r~ r; a rS F1 1 CD e 03 1 OS 00 rH W. CC r" a. r- < 1 ir: CM > 3 | o a CM p ^ - Cl T-l P < <M 4= a 5 < rr 3r^ 1 ) CC | < OC i 31= P H oc T— C35 «> f- <£ 4= c C O 00 OS CM d CM CC CO !h CC s CC > o c r— CM -CO t— CO CD rO £ CD O CD A CC CO CM © 00 00 rH -H rH | CN CM | r- CE P P Hi 00 OS CN H co rH t- rH OC OS r-i 138 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. < Hi C3 CJ) CD h bD bX> — t*t CO OS OS in CM r» CM CM CM CC CO *»•«<» rjl CO t- o t> t— HO CO-TO CO C0«0©rH-«jl3SCM^C0CO^llt- »OrHrHT-lr-l«<lrH0OrH>HeC|l-ICMrHt>i-HrH KG CO I—( CO cc oc CM r- CM i> CM O t^ CO © -f rH -+ rH CO ■* CO CO CO xt-cx^iin r4"cM"r-ra<r C4 OS l.O CC" CO S3 . ■ CO S rl CO1* HP. t- OS lO i-( t- © CM rH tH CO C— ■—' CO SO t— © r— -<+: CO CD rH CO b- CO 00 ■>* -H •■# !© 1 — ITS — O C". 0U CO O r-i -r © CM t— 00 © T l~ i.-. r-1 CM CM t— rH CO CO CO CO CO o hpt .Tii oi-rfinocNint-cMonc^-i'^occMTjiNOce^cxtLi © IO HH r-TrH"eMrH"ec5*rH"rHCNrH"e>frHrt^T-^rH~rH(^rH"rH"l> I-TcN rHCM* Co" 00 CO .2 ] CO fH "S —• «2 Tj CD r—1 M CD 43 5 CD 3? H 10 fl r3 CO r ^P m H © co CO 49 O CM *H CM T-lrH = ■ CM CO r-fCM ' CM • t- id CD 4^ p CD o Q as CO 1 13 CO § Jo Cft © t-t~'#©©©C»©t>C0t~©©t--00©C©COeMrHCOeMCMCMCM«OO5 nnnrinCN CO r-tr-i rH CO HHrtH CO i—ir-t co CO ■"J" CD 'C OCMrHHt-OCOHt-OOlOOSOSCSHriHIOloCOHlO-HtOWN'* 1 ■CO ^*rM>CB-<N»CO lOt-OCOOOriCO't-CMCOO^iOi-iH-rfir-iO CM-CM ITS CO ' CM-*:©CO-*<lO©r-llOt— CMCOCOCOrH-^nriCOCM-*CM©OOt><OaOTl<lO lOHHHHNriCOiHrHNHCMHt*HH H cfrH H t* r-T CM rH CM OS t- 00 1 £ H-> rH o •n Tj 4) irH M rH "t -P CD «? ft 02 r3 CO 4= o ■ CD bC oj +3 CO • OS rH fa —' © ■ CO in <D bjc»; bfl rl .3 2 CD . 1 -~ -r j to »o 00 ft Ph in M o •9 Ph 4- c A +■ 0 c c 1 c % ■*- 1 C P 1 c ' c a i c 'n t ^« IS i— i _ "c l ' 1 r cc "• lbs if* r ^ a r. N , r I* 1 « it* " C < < 1 1 1 C I* > 1 r <r* N 1 0 • c ; £1 ' '" lr* 1 1 i < 1^ ■ M i C3 •- [ Jj a 1 a y r i Q it IN H ' c ! 1 if* ! r* 1 43 ■N ■ v s 09 ( 'bVj x)H 72 **; * * | e ! 6 br lt> i °* - cc ^ 3 1© J c- 1II 1 p IP i CC l - 1 1 01 J c> 10 ► tfl 1 0 • a 1 L I 1 t" >a I tf CM Sr^ is »t* ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 139 B.—Annual statement of fur seals killed at St. George Island, season of 1879-80. Rookery. EJiHed. for native food. © > "fi n-J a o © rd co © Ph Balled for their skins. Aggregate. Date. Pups. CO r—i 3 © CO a 0 o >s © bJD Fhj Skins rejected. Prime skins accepted. Skins rejected Whole number skins accepted by Alaska Commercial Company. Whole CD N "co U © © bJD cfi 43 CO 43 0 O © ~ °% H CD O H rM number of seals killed. 1879. Skins left over of catch of 1878-79 569 8 62 48 July 24 8 63 48 68 54 47 58 48 18 318 g 28 Near North 1 63 Au«\ 6 do 48 19 do — 68 54 47 58 48 68 Sept. 1. 23 do 54 do 47 Oct. 2 do 58 15 do 48 Nov. 3 do 821 18 315 839 8 do 3 318 10 do Southwest Bay 654 31 654 19 20 20 93 14 23 81 333 562 351 734 254 557 596 223 1,182 518 811 833 1,320 1,764 843 808 392 954 961 515 1,481 1,810 947 20,000 51 Dec. 6 93 14 23 93 1880. May 18 26 14 23 Starry Ateel June 3 North.. 81 333 562 351 734 254 557 596 223 1,182 518 it 833 1,320 1,764 843 808 392 954 961 515 1,481 1,810 947 1 5 2 1 4 82 9 East 338 12 North and Starry Ateel 564 14 East < 352 15 1 Southwest Bay 738 17 do 254 17 North and Starry Ateel 2 3 559 19 East 599 19 Southwest Bay 223 21 North and Starry A teel 1 1 183 22 Southwest Bay 518 23 East 3 6 2 6 3 814 839 25 Southwest Bay 25 1 322 28 East 1 770 29 Southwest Bay ....... 846 30 Starry Ateel . 808 July 1 North 392 2 East 2 956 2 Southwest Bay . 961 5 North and Starry Ateel 518 6 East 2 4 2 1 483 7 Southwest Bay 1,814 9 East 949 Total 1,506 1 880 3 275 1 18,830 1 J.Q : S>a 21, 293 1 c. XOJ-iAXN V uu i This is to certify that on the 22d day of May, 1880,1,132 fur-seal skins were shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul (Erskine master), fr< the island of St. George, being part of the quota of 1880. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge Island of St. Paul, Jane 7,1880. -seal skins were shippi I (Erskine master), from D. Island op St. George, July 24,1880. This is to certify that 12,692 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul (M. C. Erskine master), all of the quota of 1880. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. 140 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. E. Island of St. George, July 26, 1880. This is to certify that 6,176 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul (Erskine master), being the balance of the quota (20,000) of this island for 1880. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. F. Island of St. Paul, June 7,1880. This is to certify that 2,270 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul (Erskine master), being part of the quota of 1880. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. G. Island of St. Paul, June 30, 1880. This is to certify that 12,184 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Dora (Hague master), destined for San Francisco, via Ounalaska, being part of the quota of 1880. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. H. Island of St. Paul, July 80, 1880. This is to certify that since the 30th day of June, 1880 (date of my last certificate), 65,546 fur-seal skins have been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul (Erskine master), being the balance of the quota (80,000) of this island for 1880. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. I.—Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, in account with the United States, at St. Paul Island, Alaska, to May 31, 1880. Dr. July 29,1879. To shipments of fur-seal skins from the island to date (quota of 1879), 80,000 skins. Sept. 1,1879. To amount of salt salmon required to be supplied for consumption by the native people, 60 barrels. Nov. 17,1879. To amount of coal required to be furnished for use of the native people, 40 tons. Sept. 1,1879. To supplies of barrels aud salt required to be furnished natives for the preservation of meat, requisite amounts and quantities. Sept. 1,1879. To maintenance of school, as required by lease, 8 months. Cr. June 1, 1879. By lawful quota of fur-seal skins allowed to be taken annually (quota of 1879), 80,000 skins. Sept. 1,1879. By amount of salt salmon supplied for consumption by the native people, 60 barrels. Nov. 17,1879. By amount of coal supplied for use of the native people (in lieu of wood), 40 tons. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 141 Sept. 1,1879. By barrels and salt supplied native people for preservation of meat, requisite amounts and quantities. Sept. 28,1880. By maintenance of school (commencing September 1, 1879, closing April 28, 1880), 8 months. I certify on honor that the above account current is correct, to the best of my knowledge and belief. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. J.—Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, in account with the United States, at St. George Island, Alaska. Dr. July 25, 1879. To shipments of fur-seal skins from the island to date (quota of 1879), 20,000 skins. Aug. 15, 1879. To amount of salt salmon required to be furnished for consumption by the native people, 20 barrels. Aug. 15, 1879. To amount of coal required to be furnished for use of the native people, 20 tons. Aug. 15, 1879. To supplies of barrels and salt required to be furnished native people for preservation of meat, requisite amounts and quantities. Sept, 1, 1879. To maintenance of school as required by lease, 8 months. Cr. June 1, 1879. Bv lawful quota of fur-seal skins allowed to be taken annually (quota of 1879), 20,000 skins. Aug. 15, 1879. By amount of salt salmon supplied for consumption by the native people, 20 barrels. Aug. 15, 1879. By amount of coaj supplied for use of the native people (in lieu of wood), 20 tons. Aug. 15, 1879. By barrels and salt supplied native people for preservation of meat, requisite amounts and quantities. May 1,1880. By maintenance of school (commencing September 1,1879; closing May 1, 1880), 8 months. I certify on honor that the above account current is made up from the records of St. George Island, and that it is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. ' 1881. Special Agent Gtis; annual report for 1881. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, July 30,1881. Sir : I have the honor to submit my annual report on sealing operations and other affairs at the seal islands during the past year. RESULTS OF THE SEALING SEASON. The first breeding seals (bulls) made their appearance this season on St. Paul Island on May 2, and on St. George Island May 5. By the 6th of June the class known as " killable seals " had commenced hauling out in numbers sufficient to enable the Alaska Commercial Company to commence driving and killing for skins, and by the middle of that month the sealers had all they could manage. Killing ceased on St. Paul July 20; thirty-five days having been expended in completing the full catch of 80,000 skins (3,813 skins had been taken from "food seals" before the regular sealing season commenced). 142 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Killing began on St. George June 9, and ceased July 16; twenty-two days having been expended in completing the full catch of 20,000 (640 skins had been taken from u food seals | killed on that island before the regular season commenced). The result of the entire year's killing on both islands, both by the lessees for skins and by the native people for food, is presented in compact form in the accompanying tabulated statement marked "A."I SHIPMENTS. The shipments of fur-seal skins made by the Alaska Commercial Company since the close of the sealing season of 1880 have aggregated 99,960 and are specifically set out in the accompanying account current marked "B,"1 and also in nine certificates, marked'from C to L. This account current, instead of being closed with May, as formerly, is brought down so as to include the present season's shipments, and is thus made to embrace two years' shipments. CONDITION OF THE FUR-SEAL LIFE. The appearance and condition of the breeding rookeries and hauling grounds continue favorable, and there is no perceptible diminution in the vast numbers of the seals. They were somewhat later than last season in coming up from the sea to their customary haunts upon land, owing, it is believed, to the coldness of the spring, and possibly, also, in part to the presence in these waters of numerous "killer" whales. An unusual proportion of large young males appeared in the droves, good evidence that the ranks of the breeding class are not being thinned injuriously. As in former years, very considerable numbers of. full-grown bulls, believed to be both capable and willing, may be seen throughout the breeding season prowling about on the ragged edges of the harems, without families of their own, but | waiting and watching over the border" for opportunities to invade the polygamous precincts from which they had been expelled by their more powerful or determined fellows, in order to kidnap and carry off the coveted cows. The breeding rookeries show unmistakable expansion in many places, their occupants steadily driving or crowding the young males (bachelors) from their former resorts, and gradually forcing them to haul out upon new ground. NUMBERS.—THE QUESTION OF INCREASE OR DECREASE. I shall, not venture to state in figures, even approximately, the grand aggregate of fur seals that annually visit these, their favorite resorts. I can only say it is very great—a countless multitude—and is certainly not diminishing. In my opinion, the increase or decrease of the seal life is best shown by the ease or difficulty, relatively, with which the annual catch is taken when the conditions under which the work is done are substantially the same, one year with another. The following table, covering a period of eleven years, shows: (1) The number of seal skins taken in each sealing season proper on St. Paul Island; (2) the number of days expended in the work; (3) the number of sealers engaged; (4) the average number of skins taken per day, and (5) the average daily catch per man en gaged;-and it is confidently submitted as the most solid ground we have to stand upon in attempting an answer to the inquiry, " Are the fur seals of Alaska increasing or diminishing in numbers?" 1 Missing. ALASKA INDUSTRIES'. 143 Tear. 1871. 1872. 1873. 1874. 1875. 1876. 1877. 1878. 1879. 1880. 1881. Seals killed. 75,635 69, 782 74, 398 88,168 84, 914 74,138 58, 762 78, 598 76, 680 75,931 75,538 Sealers engaged. Days expended. Average daily catch. 66 55 1,375 71 50 1,395 71 40 1,860 84 39 2,261 69 35 2,426 76 33 2,247 70 29 2,026 67 33 2, 382 72 33 2,323 70 34 2, 233 68 35 2,158 Average daily catch per man. 21 20 26 27 35 29 29 35 32 32 32 I think it can safely be said that during the past four or five years especially the conditions under which the driving, killing, and skinning have been done have not materially varied, so that the above comparison of one year's results with another may be regarded as a fair one. It shows a general increase in the daily rate of killing during the past four years of from 23 to 37 per cent over the rate during the first four years of the lease, and, presumably, a greater abundance of killable seals. DURATION OF THE STAGEY SEASON. It is fortunate that the full annual catch can be secured in so brief a time as it has required to secure it in recent years, instead of having to extend sealing operations over the entire lawful killing season, viz, from June to October, inclusive (except the brief interval from August 15 to 31). As the harassment of the seals and disturbance of their hauling grounds are thus confined to the shortest possible period, the effect is necessarily good. Besides, what is more important, it would necessitate a serious waste of skins if the killing under the lease should be extended into the u stagey" season, which commences about the middle of August, is at its height through September and most of October, and does not cease, usually, before the middle of November, sometimes not till later. The following table, giving the number of fur seals killed (for food) at^t. Paul Island during the stagey seasons of 1877,1878,1879, and 1880, and the percentage of stagey and of prime skins, respectively, shows, by its different dates and figures, the beginning, progress," height, decline, and disappearance of the stagey season in those years: Date of killing. 1877. Aug. 20.. Aug. 30. Sept. 12. Sept. 21. Sept. 29. Oct. 6... Oct. 16.. Oct. 24.. Nov. 19. 1878. Aug. 22. Sept. 2.. Sept. 14. Sept, 24. Oct. 2... Oct. 10.. 1879. Aug. 11. Aug. 20. Aug. 38. Number killed. Per cent of prime skins. 199 1 88£ 200 54 196 26J 171 163 171 157 146 222 904 173 211 156 144 . 148 149 195 96| 206 59 203 H Per cent of stagey skins. lit 46 734 100 100 100 100 100 9£ 100 100 100 100 100 100 34 41 984 Date of killing. 1879—Continued. Sept. 5,8 Sept. 9 Sept. 18 Sept. 29 Oct. 7 Oct. 20 Nov. 13 Nov. 27 Dec. 6a Dec. 16 a 1880. Aug. 19. Aug. 28. Sept. 8.. Sept. 18. Sept. 30. Oct. 12.. Oct. 25.. Nov. K. Nov. 29. Number killed. Per cent of prime skins. 4 185 16 185 211 109 263 260 27 172 96 1,206 704 1,308 874 160 189 195 724 239 -■.-,..... . • -. 227 260 193 31 270 270 804 99$ Per cent of stagey skins. 100 100 100 100 100 100 73 4 294 124 274 100 100 100 100 100 69 19$ 1 a The reported reappearance of staginess in December, 1879, is exceptional, and probably an error. 144 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. From this table it will at once be seen that the killing of fur seals for their skins could not be practiced with profit to the lessees or to the Government during the months of September and October, as now authorized by law, and that killing in the first half of November, even^ would necessitate the throwing away of from 10 to 70 per cent of the skins as stagey and comparatively worthless. Although this is not now a practical question, since the full lawful quota is easily taken earlier in the season, when the skins are all prime, the erroneous provision of law which I have pointed out nevertheless remains, and unless corrected might in future years prove the means of working injury to this valuable interest of the Government, which deserves to be protected at every point so that it may be preserved intact for all time. There is no good reason, however, why the law might not be modified so as to extend the limits of the killing season for skins from the middle of November to the end of December. During the last half of November there still remain upon the islands no inconsiderable numbers of killable seals, from which several thousand prime skins could be taken in case anything had occurred to curtail the catch earlier in the season. In mild seasons fur seals remain about the islands till very late. The past winter more than 1,000 were secured for food in January. MARAUDING VESSELS. I have already, under date or July 4,1881, reported to you in detail the movements and operations of suspected and marauding vessels in these waters, and urged the need of more adequate means of dealing with them for infractions of law. Since then but one unknown vessel has been seen about these islands; but it is feared that during September and October, after .the disappearance of the company's vessels from these waters, the islands may be visited by lawless craft bent on raiding the rookeries. OTTER ISLAND. The island is now under the immediate protection of an officer and two sailors from theTJnited States revenue steamer Thomas Corwin, who were detached for that duty by Captain Hooper at St. Michaels. The officer, Lieut. G. H. Doty, was directed by his commander to confer with me and be guided by my counsel in the matter. I have advised him to keep guard over the island until the disappearance of the seals in the fall, or at least so long as there is any probability of marauding vessels visiting these waters; to protect the seals from disturbance by all persons whatever, and, if possible, to seize any vessel attempting to land men to kill seals or take them in the adjacent waters. The officer and his men arrived here July 20, and proceeded to their station uiv 23. THE NATIVE PEOPLE.—CENSUS, HEALTH, CONDITION, SUPPLIES, ETC In compliance with Department instructions to the Treasury agent in charge to make in his annual report ua statement in regard to the general health of the natives, how far their wants are supplied, and the general treatment extended to them by the officers of the Alaska Commercial Company," I report as follows: The general health and condition of this people have continued good, as compared with former years, and are confessedly better than the ■ ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 145 general health and condition of the native people of the Aleutian Isles. An epidemic, in the nature of pneumonia and pleurisy combined, which raged during last winter aud spring in the Aleutian Isles, carrying off many of the native inhabitants, spread to St. Paul Island early in June, and attacked a large proportion of the people, but proved fatal in only live cases. This comparatively slight mortality is attributable to the fact that the people of the seal islands are better fed, clothed, and housed, and have better medical attendance than do the natives of the neighboring islands. The last census of St. Paul Island, taken December .31, 1880, shows a total native population of 279 souls. Two marriages, 21 births, and 20 deaths occurred during that year. St. George Island, by the census of July, 1881, had a total native population of 102 souls. Two marriages, 6 births, and 6 deaths occurred during the year on that island. Despite the improved physical condition of the seal islanders, there is no natural increase of population; on the contrary, since 1872, the deaths have exceeded the births by two. The following table shows the total population and the number of births and deaths in each year during the past decade: St. Paul Island. St. George Island. Both islands. Tear. Population. Births. Deaths. Population. Births. Deaths. Total population. Natural increase or decrease, a 1870 ft m 218 217 227 254 256 261 262 285 279 1 I) 10 4 14 12 21 13 19 19 21 11 (6) 1 10 15 10 9 18 18 21 18 20 11 132 120 111 110 123 113 101 98 95 88 92 102 4 7 8 7 8 2 5 8 3 5 5 6 8 7 5 2 6 6 4 11 1 6 6 6 1871 1872 329 327 350 367 357 359 357 373 371 Gain, 3. 1873 Loss, 6. 1874 Gain, 6. 1875 Loss, 1. Gain, 4. 1876 1877 Loss, 8. 1878 1879 1880 1881c a Not including increase from immigration. b No records. c Six months for St. Paul Island. The absolute increase since 1872 is all from that source. The resident physician states the annual death rate on St. Paul Island, per 1,000 of population, at 58, against 13 in the United States, and the birth rate at 60, against 28 in the United States. The average duration of human life on the seal islands is only about fourteen years, against forty years in the United States. The physical wants of the seal islanders have been very fairly supplied. On this island the native people were permitted, under the law, to kill for food, during ten months of the year which this report covers, medium-si zed and small seals to the number of 9,432, yielding an estimated net weight of 213,564 pounds of meat. No account is taken of the seal meat appropriated for food during the sealing season proper, but, estimating that in these two months a proportionate quantity was consumed, the grand aggregate for the entire year reaches 256,276 pounds net, being nearly 3 pounds per day for every individual, old and young, above the age of 1 year. The Alaska Commercial Company supplied for native use 44 barrels of salt fish, besides which the people took some tons of fresh fish, killed several sea lions and large numbers of birds, and consumed a few thousand eggs. On these various supplies they have managed to get through the year without H. Doc. 92 10 fflHB 146 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. suffering for meat food. Other necessary supplies have been furnished them in abundance from the lessee's stores, as required, and paid for by the people out of their own earnings. The same is proportionately true of St. George Island, where supplies of all kinds have also been furnished and fairly distributed. The whole amount of salt salmon supplied under the lease for native consumption has not been consumed in recent years. The quota might properly be reduced one-fourth, and an equivalent amount of coal furnished in lieu thereof. The full supply of fuel, viz, 60 tons of coal of 2,240 pounds each, required to be furnished under the lease for the use of the native people, was supplied, equitably distributed, and consumed; besides which the St. Paul natives purchased as much more, paying therefor about $2,000. The general treatment of the natives has been good. The accompanying accounts current, marked "M,"1 show the state of the fuel, the school, the salt, the barrels, and the fish accounts, respectively. NATIVE LABOR AND EARNINGS. The earnings of the native sealers during the year are given below: On St. Paul Island: For distribution— 79,223 prime seal skins, at 40 cents $31,689.20 682 cut seal skins, at 20 cents 136.40 65 sea lion skins, at 60 cents 39.00 2£ barrels intestines, at $6 15.00 Total 31,879.60 Which aggregate sum was distributed as follows: To the church $857.66 To the priest 857.66 51 first-class shares, at $428.83 21,870.33 19 second-class shares, at $385.93 7, 332.67 2 third-class shares, at $343.14 68 5.28 4 special appropriations 275.00 Total 31,879.60 On St. George Island: For distribution, 20,000 prime seal skins, at 40 cents $8, 000 Distributed as follows: 13 first-class shares, at $400 $5,200 4 second-class shares, at $385 1,540 4 third-class shares, at $272 1,088 To the Church 172 Total 8,000 QUAS BREWING AND DRUNKENNESS. My report upon this point must be less favorable than heretofore. During the year I found it necessary, under existing Department instructions to suppress drunkenness, to cut off the sugar and other sweet articles from which quas is brewed, in forty different cases, for periods of from one month to six months each, in punishment of the offenses of quas brewing and drinking. This deprivation affected about 125 persons in all, the families of the offenders being included. 1 Missincr. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 147 I also imposed a few moderate fines in aggravated cases. Raw quas takes rank as the most villainous compound that ever traversed the human gullet, making the drinker not only drunk, but sick also, and unfits him for work, even after the stupor has passed off. Finally, the evil continuing after the commencement of the sealing season, and the native chiefs refusing or failing to lend their assistance in correcting it, but on the contrary implicating themselves in it, I was constrained to resort to more rigorous measures by cutting off all sweet supplies from the entire village, without exception. This act was resented by a strike. On the 22d of June the native sealers at the village, throwing down their seal clubs, delivered to the agent of tlie lessees, through their toione, their ultimatum, literally in these words: "No sugar, no seals will be." The head chief at the same time dispatched a runner to the northeast point of the island, 12 miles distant, to stop the gang of 22 sealers at work there. They evidently believed that they had the Government, as well as the lessees, in their power. The difficulty was referred to me. I refused to make any concession; and, as the work could not be permitted to stop, I authorized the agent, upon his application, to employ as sealers a gang of some twenty Unalaska men who had already been brought to the island as temporary laborers at other work. The appearance of these men on the seal fields next morning astonished the strikers and had the effect of weakening their fiery resolution. They next came in a body to consult me, and protested against the employment of outsiders to do the work of which they claim a monopoly. I talked to them through an interpreter very plainly, showing them the folly and wrongfulness of their course, warning them of its consequences if persisted in, and explaining to them the true meaning of the law and lease under which they claim the exclusive right to do the work of sealing. I assured them that their strike would not put a stop to the work; that both the Government and the company would see that it went on without them, if necessary; that they could not claim a monopoly of the sealing privilege and at the same time refuse to do the work; that they would be guaranteed that privilege by the Government only so long as they were numerous enough and willing to do the work when required; that I would not yield a particle in the matter of the sugar prohibition so long as they stood out in their striking attitude or while clandestine quas brewing and drinking continued; and finally, that if they chose to return to their work and agreed to obey the laws and the Secretary's orders their privileges would be restored to them, they would be fully protected in all their rights, and all would be well. These warnings and assurances speedily produced the desired effect. The natives at first prevaricated, undertaking to deny that they had refused to work; then they made various excuses for their obstinate conduct, and finally expressed their readiness to resume work, " sugar or no sugar," and forthwith started with alacrity for the seal field. The Unalaska natives were then withdrawn, and the work of taking skins went forward rapidly to the end of the season, without further difficulty. SCHOOLS. English schools have been maintained by the lessees on each island during eight months of the year three hours a day. The enrollment of children of school age was, on St. Paul, 40; on St. George, 28; total, 68. The average attendance was a fraction less than 62. The HS9B 148' ALASKA INDUSTRIES. progress made is perceptible, though not rapid. As heretofore, on St. Paul a Russian school has been kept by a subpriest (under a concession formerly made) during most of the same period, about three hours a day, five days a week, church holidays excepted. These holidays are very frequent, amounting to some thirty-three during the last school term, and interfere seriously with the regularity of the school attendance. On this account I made the rule that, without encroaching upon regular church holidays or customs, the English school hours should either be increased or the term extended so as to make it equivalent to not less than two hundred' actual school days of not less than three hours each. THE OIL FUND. The fund of $557.92, being balance of the amount of the tax on seal oil still due from the Alaska Commercial Company for oil manufactured by them in 1878 and 1879, has not been expended in the construction of waterworks for the common benefit of the native people of St. Paul village, as authorized by Department letter of April 8, 1880, for the reason that the sum is of itself wholly insufficient for the purpose. The Department's instruction to me to use the fund for that object was, as I understood the matter, given upon the condition and with the understanding that the Alaska Commercial Company would supply the remainder of the funds needed for the work. As this has not been done, I have considered it inexpedient to commence the work. Ifc is estimated by the company, I learn, that it will require between $3,000 and $4,000 to put in complete waterworks. No improvement that could be made here would be of so great convenience to the people as this. QUOTAS OF THE ISLANDS. The people of St. George request that the quota of seal skins now permitted to be taken on that island be increased from 20,000 to 22,000 in 1882. They desire to swell their earnings so that they may be able to support a local priest, which they have not heretofore done. At present the earnings of the native sealers there are less per man by about $80 than are the earnings of the St. Paul sealers, and the former have the harder work to perform. For these reasons, and also because I am satisfied that 22,000 skins may now be taken upon St. George without endangering the perpetuity of the seal life, I recommend that the above request be grauted for one year, and that a corresponding reduction be made in the quota of St. Paul for 1882. By authority of Department letter (J. G. H.), dated March 30, 1880, I have approved vouchers in favor of the Alaska Commercial Company amounting to $247.95, for materials furnished and work done in painting and repairing the Government buildings on these islands. The allowance of $250 authorized by Department letter (H. G. J.-H. B. J.), dated November 9,1880, is as yet untouched. Assistant Treasury Agents J. H. Moulton and George Wardman will continue on duty at St. Paul and St. George islands, respectively, till further orders. The last-named officer, who had desired a leave of absence this season, remains in consequence of the departure of Assistant Treasury Agent W. B. Taylor, who has left his station without authority. Having complied with the requirements of the Department by leaving an officer in charge of each island during the coming winter, I will return to California under the authority in my possession. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 149 Respectfully calling your attention to the several vouchers and exhibits accompanying my report, I remain, sir, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. B.—Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, in account with the United States at the seal islands from May 31, 1880, to July 31, 1881. Dr. To shipment of fur-seal skins in 1880 as follows: From St. Paul Island— June 7, per steamer St. Paul 2,270 June 30, per steamer Dora 12,184 July 31, per steamer St. Paul 65, 546 80,000 From St. George Island— May 22, per steamer St. Paul 1,132 July 24, per steamer St. Paul 18, 862 20,000 Total in 1880 (certified) 100,000 To shipment of fur-seal skins in 1881 as follows: From St. Paul Island— July 6, per steamer Dora 15, 000 July 21, per steamer St. Paul 6,200 July 22, per steamer St. Paul 12,408 July 23, per steamer St. Paul 7, 000 July 28, per steamer St. Paul 18,154 July 29, per steamer St. Paul 1, 938 79,960 From St. George Island— •July 25, per steamer St. Paul 3,820 July 27, per steamer St. Paul 16,180 20,000 Total in 1881 (certified) 99,960 Shipped short of the lawful quota 40 100,000 Cr. June 1, 1880, by lawful number of fur-seal skins allowed to be taken viz: On St. Paul Island, quota of 1880 80,000 On St. George Island, quota of 1880 20,000 100,000 June 1, 1881, by lawful number of fur-seal skins allowed to be taken, viz: On St. Paul Mand, quota of 1881 80,000 On St. George Island, quota of 1881.. 20,000 100,000 Correct. Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. 150 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. C. Island of St. Paul, July 6,1881. This is to certify that 15,000 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Z)ora,.Hague master, destined for San Francisco, being part of said company's lawful quota of 1881. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. D. Island of St. Paul, July 21,1881. This is to certify that 6,200 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. E. Island of St. Paul, July 22,1881. This is to certify that 12,408 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. F. Island of St. Paul, July 23,1881. This is to certify that 7,000 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. G. Island of St. Paul, July 28,1881. This is to certify that 19,260 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. H. Island of St. Paul, July 29,1881. This is to certify that 18,154 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. H. G. Otis, Treasury Agent in Charge. I. Island of St. Paul, July 30,1881. This is to certify that 1,938 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being remainder of the quota of 1881, less 40 skins. J. H. Moulton, Assistant Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 151 K. Island of St. George, July 25,1881. This is to certify that 3,820 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, being part of the quota of 1881. Geo. Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, July 27,1881. This is to certify that 16,180 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped onboard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Erskine master, destined for San Francisco, completing the quota of 1881. Geo. Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent. Table showing receipts and invoices of fur-seal skins from the islands of St. Paul and St. George, Alaska, according to customs inspectors' returns. Date of returns. Oct. 5,1872 Oct. 16, Aug. 11, Sept. 5, Oct, 16, June 4, Sept. 3, Sept. 7, July 2, Sept. 4, Oct. 22, Aug. 22, Dec. 21, Aug. 20; Sept. 7, Sept. 26, Nov. 31, Aug. 22, Nov. 25, Aug. 2, Aug. 19, July 27, Aug. 20, 1872 1873 1873 1873 1874 1874 1874 1875 1875 1875 1876 1876 1877 1878 1878 1878 1879 1879 1880 1880 1881 1881 Vessel. Steamer Alexander. Bark Cyane do Steamer Alexander Bark Cyane do do Steamer Alexander Bark Cyane Steamer Alexander Bark Cyane Steamer St. Paul do do do Schooner St. George do Steamer St. Paul Schooner St. Steamer Dora Steamer St. Paul. Steamer Dora Steamer St. Paul. Amount ofinvoice (skins). George. 49, 332 218 8,877 2,612 34, 756 41,168 57, 268 5,100 256 45,042 54,858 3,856 56, 228 40, 046 65, 538 24. 322 75, 526 80,000 14, 026 5,942 85, 000 15. 000 15, 586 84, 414 15, 000 84, 960 Amount delivered (skins). 49, 332 218 8,877 2,886 34,756 41,168 57, 390 5,092 256 45,086 54, 656 3,850 56, 228 39, 954 85, 548 24, 416 75, 526 79,960 14, 082 5,938 85, 000 14, 962 15, 602 84, 434 15, 014 84,752 Remarks. 274 over. 122 over. 8 short.. 44 over... 202 short. 6 short... 92 short. 10 over.. 94 over. . 40 short... 56 over 4 short 38 short... 16 over 20 over...j 14 over 208 short.. Payments as per assistant treasurers receipts. Date. Oct. 17,1872 Aug. 20, do . Sept. 16, Nov. 8, June 11, Sept. 18, 1873 1873 1873 1874 1874 July 5, Sept. 11, Oct. 30, Aug. 31, Jan. 4, Sept. 10, Sept. 11, Sept. 27, Dec, 4, Aug. 22, Dec. 1, Aug. 2, Aug. 20, July 28, Aug. 23, 1875 1875 1875 1876 1877 1877 1878 1878 1878 1879 1879 1880 1880 1881 1881 Amount. $252,181.12 97, 812. 75 10, 253. 25 150. 648. 75 13, 366. 50 672.00 \ 261,822.75 10,106.25 147,598. 50 104,879. 25 172, 063.50 64,092. 00 198,255. 75 209, 895. 00 36,965.25 15, 587. 25 223,125.00 39, 275. 25 40, 955. 25 221, 639.25 39,411.75 222,474.00 RECAPITULATION. Number of skins invoiced f 964,931 Number of skins paid on as per inspectors' returns 964,983 Net number of skins in excess of invoices on which tax was paid. 52 152 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 1882. Special Agent Otis; preliminary report for 1882. Santa Barbara, Cal., April 1,1882. Sir : I have the honor to present for your consideration and action the following matters pertaining to the seal islands of Alaska, etc.: I. Otter Island.—This island, lying about 6 miles off the southwest end of St. Paul Island, and not embraced within the terms of the Alaska Commercial Company's lease, is the resort, annually, from June to November, of some thousands of (nonbreeding) fur seals, which haul up from the sea to rest and play upon its rocky shores. They appear to be simply the overplus from the larger island, and are mainly males, both young and old. It is believed that from 5,000 to 10,000 marketable skins might be taken there annually, if there were any authority for doing so, and the tendency is for the seals to steadily increase in numbers there. It was formerly the practice of certain subordinates of the Alaska Commercial Company to go to Otter Island in boats and drive the seals found there into the sea, the object being to discourage their coming to that island and force them to concentrate upon St. Paul Island, where the greater part of the fur-seal skins are taken. This practice I have disapproved and forbidden, taking the ground that the lessees have no authority under their lease to interfere with Otter Island or to harass the seals found thereon or thereabouts, and that the spirit of the law enacted for the protection of the seal life was violated whenever it was done. (See sections 1 and 2, act approved July 1, 1870.) Besides, such harassment is wholly unnecessary, as the number of killable seals found upon St. Paul and St. George islands in the season is so vast that the entire annual quota allowed to be taken can be secured in less than thirty-five working days, leaving a countless number still upon the shores untouched. The device, even if it were legitimate, of driving the seals from Otter Island for the pretended purpose of taking away the attraction for marauders to make descents upon the island, is a futile one, because the seals persistently return after a few hours and can not be. kept away except by a degree of harassment which is warranted by neither law nor good policy. By existing orders of the Department, Otter Island is placed under the immediate care and protection of the Treasury agents stationed at St. Paul Island, who are required to visit it occasionally during the season when the seals resort to it, in. order to keep off marauders, etc. In my judgment this practice should be continued, and the seal life of Otter Island be protected against destruction and harassment from whatever source they may come, until such time as the Secretary of the Treasury shall be authorized by law to lease the island or take other measures to make it a source of revenue to the Government. I submit the whole subject to you, asking specific directions for the future, which shall be binding alike upon the Treasury agents, the lessees, and all concerned. II. Protection of the seal islands.—In this connection I have the honor to renew my recommendation that Congress be asked for an appropriation to build a suitable vessel to be used for the protection of Otter Island and the seal fisheries against lawless intruders. At present the revenue steamer which cruises in Alaskan waters is able to make no ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 153 more than two or three brief calls at the islands during the entire season, covering a period of not less than five months, during which the sensitive seal rookeries are practically at the mercy of marauding vessels, so far as any means for repelling them on water are concerned, for •the Government officers at the islands have no such means at command, not even a whaleboat. I think the policy of furnishing a small and inexpensive, though swift and effective, steam vessel for this purpose would be in the interest of true economy, for it would secure the complete protection of these priceless resorts of the fur seal, and at the same time relieve the revenue steamers entirely from the necessity of cruising in the immediate waters. III. Unauthorized hilling of fur seals uin adjacent waters."—Respectfully referring to my letter to the Department dated November 3,1881, I again call attention to the evil of the unlawful killing of fur seals in waters adjacent to the Aleutian Islands, and recommend that explicit instructions be issued to the commanding officers of all revenue cutters which may hereafter cruise in Alaskan waters directing them to break up the practice, which is not only unauthorized by law but is in direct violation of Treasury regulations, and particularly of the Department's ruling contained in the letter to D. A. d'Ancona, dated March 12,1881. I think it would also be well for the revenue officers to keep a sharper lookout upon the sea otter grounds, to the end that the hunting of those rare fur-bearing animals shall no longer be carried on in defiance of law, as I suspect it has been in some cases. IY. The hilling of seals for food.—The matter of the killing, by natives of St. Paul and St. George islands, of young seals (viz, 4 month old pups) for food has heretofore formed the subject of correspondence with the Department. The latest rulings on the subject are those contained in the Department's telegram to Assistant Agent Moulton, dated September 3,1881, and in the letter to me, dated November 21,1881. These rulings authorize the Treasury agents, in their discretion, to materially reduce the number of such seals heretofore killed for food provided the Alaska Commercial Company shall make good its offer to supply to the natives, in lieu of seal meat, a quantity of corned beef and condensed milk, free of charge. Anticipating this action by the Department, and being aware of the company's offer, I had, previous to the date of the telegram referred to, instructed my assistants to reduce the number of pup seals to be killed for the last winter's supply of food to 3,000 on St. Paul and to 3,000 on St. George Island. The new supplies which the company offered to furnish went forward to the islands in September last, and doubtless proved an acceptable substitute for pup-seal meat. An abundance of the meat of larger seals (the skins of which are merchantable) is always put up in the fall, so that there is no danger whatever of the natives suffering for meat food. If it shall be found that the result of this experiment has proved successful, then I shall recommend that the killing of pup seals be entirely discontinued in the future. It is a needless sacrifice of the seal life, which, though done under the color of law, ought not to be persisted in. If, however, the practice be continued to any extent, the course indicated in Department letters of July 11 and July 18, 1881, should be strictly followed, and all such skins be taken possession of by the Treasury agents as the property of the United States. I ask qualified instructions in advance to carry into effect my proposed recommendation. 154 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. V. Publication of laws and Treasury regulations.—I respectfully call your attention to my letter to the Department dated July 4,1881, and to the accompanying compilation of the various scattered laws, Executive orders, and Treasury regulations affecting the seal islands, and renew my recommendation that the same be printed under the direction of the Secretary, at the Government Printing Office, and a limited number of copies be furnished for use in Alaska. As the annual sailing day of the seal island steamer is now only some thirty days off, I have to request your early attention to the matters presented in this letter. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Harrison G. Otis, Treasury Agent, in Charge of the Seal Islands. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent Glidden; preliminary report for 1882. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, May 30, 1882. Sir: In accordance with your letter of instructions of April 17,1 left San Francisco on the steamer St. Paul on the 4th instant and came, via Kodiak, Unalaska, and St. George Island to this place, arriving here on the afternoon of the 28th. The steamer only anchored at St. George long enough to land Assistant Agent Louis Kimmel and take on board Assistant Agent Wardman. Mr. Wardman came here with me for the purpose of consultation with Mr. Moulton, assistant agent at this place. I have advised with them very freely in relation to the conditions and requirements of the islands. Agreeably to your permission, I have directed that the quota of seals to be taken for their skins be apportioned at 78,000 on St. Paul and 22,000 on St. George. I am informed that there has been but little quas brewed upon the islands since the 1st of January, but that enough has been used to cause occasional instances of drunkenness. In consequence of this the sale of sugar has been entirely stopped, and all open appearance of quas drinking has disappeared. I have recommended to the Alaska Commercial Company to procure and keep on sale a sufficient supply of condensed milk to take the place of sugar, and they will comply with my recommendation. It is hoped that the removal of sugar from the reach of the natives will effectually put a stop to the brewing of quas and to the intoxication consequent upon its use. There have been no pup seals killed for food upon St. Paul Island during the past year. In lieu of this seal meat the Alaska Commercial Company has furnished, free of charge, corned beef, condensed milk, and other articles of food. The order in relation to killing pup seals for food did not reach the agent in charge at St. George last fall until after the complement of pup seals for that purpose had been killed. The company's steamer, Dora, owing to rough weather, was unable to land the supplies destined to take the place of pup seal meat on that island. There were, therefore, 1,031 pup seals killed on that island for ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 155 native food to be used during the past winter. The supplies to be substituted for this seal food will be furnished to both islands for the coming year and no pup seals will be allowed to be killed. I recommend that an order be issued by you authorizing lard to be issued by the Alaska Commercial Company as one of the articles of substituted food in the place of condensed milk. The milk will be substituted on sale in place of sugar, and obtainable by the natives in that way. The fat of the lard seems to be desirable. The skins of the pup seals killed for food have heretofore been used by the natives in the manufacture of blankets, rugs, and other articles for sale, and the proceeds have been considered a sort of perquisite of the natives. They have sold these articles to whalers and others, and it is- said that these same articles afforded 'the natives an opportunity of trading for illicit supplies. The advertisement and sale of even pup seal skins by the Government or its agents in San Francisco or elsewhere might and would probably affect to some extent the seal market in London, where all the skins are sold at auction, and possibly be a serious injury to the lessees of the fur-seal islands. It therefore becomes a serious question as to what ought to be done with these pup seal skins. There are now in store on St. George Island the 1,028 skins taken there last fall. They were salted and properly cared for by the agent in charge. They are not of great value, being worth in San Francisco but little more than the cost of salting, bundling, transportation, and selling. If they are sold by the Alaska Commercial Company, or if they are, as heretofore, used by the natives in constructing articles for sale, and the articles sold by the Alaska Commercial Company for the benefit of the natives, or whatever disposition be made of them, the Alaska Commercial Company desire that their rights be protected, and that no use be made of these skins which will affect the general market or come in competition with them. If no more are killed the solution is easy, but if, after trial, the seal meat shall again be thought necessary for the health of the natives, and the killing of pup seals be continued, the question of the disposal of the skins becomes important. I desire instructions as to the disposition of the skins on hand, and for the future disposition of any that may be accumulated. The agent in charge of St. George Island reports to me that evidences of a partial raid by a marauding vessel upon the sealing grounds of that island were discovered, and the vessel seen off the grounds on the 4th of October last. The success of the effort and the number of seals taken were not ascertained, but the conclusion was that nothing of any serious moment was accomplished. I am of the opinion that a Government cutter should keep pretty close guard of both islands from the close of the killing season, September 30 or August 15, to the last of October. It is during this time that marauders will be troublesome, if at all. If it were generally understood that a Government vessel was on the lookout, no unlawful attempt to capture seals would be likely to occur. Captain Healey, of the Corwin, on his return from St. Lawrence Bay with the Bodgers crew, detailed Lieutenant Lutz and two men to remain upon Otter Island and protect that island from parties who may attempt to kill seals there. There have been 24 deaths on St. Paul Island since January 1,1882, 19 of which have occurred since the 19th of the present month. An epidemic of pneumonia has attacked the natives here and elsewhere with fatal violence. St. George Island has been very healthy, only 1 111 I 156 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. death having occurred there since June 1,1881. Other localities outside of my jurisdiction have suffered from this epidemic even worse than here. At Kodiak there had been, when I was there, 68 deaths, and at Unalaska 48 deaths since the 17th of April. Many of the strongest men and best hunters have died. The physicians at the last- named places say that the drinking of quas has had much to do with the fatality of the disease. On this island the disease has nearly abated. None of the whites have to any extent been affected and the general health of that class is excellent. In consequence of the sickness and death of so many natives here and the fear that there might be a scarcity of laborers during the killing season, I have permitted the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company to bring a limited number of men from Unalaska to perform such labor as the natives here shall not be able to accomplish. There is no letter book or copying press in this office, and no copy of official communications has been kept to which I can refer. I recommend that the necessary articles for that purpose be provided, and that copies of all official correspondence be preserved. Respectfully, yours, Henry A. Glidden, Agent in Charge. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent Glidden; inclosing shipping receipts, quota of 1882. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, July 6, 1882. Sir: Inclosed I hand you certificate of shipment of 15,020 fur-seal skins made this day by the Alaska Commercial Company, per steamer Dora, for San Francisco, Cal. Respectfully, yours, Henry A. Glidden, Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, July 6,1882. This is to certify that 15,020 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Dora, Captain Hagne, masterr for San Francisco, Cal. Henry A. Gledden, Treasury Agent. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 28,1882. Dear Sir : Inclosed please find certificates of shipment of fur-seal skins as follows: St. George Island, 20,000; St. Paul Island, 64,980; per steamer Dora, July 6,15,020. Respectfully, yours, Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent. Hon. C. J. Folger, Secretary. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 157 Island of St. Paul, July 28,1882. Tbis is to certify tbat 64,980 fur-seal skins bave tbis day been sbipped on board tbe Alaska Commercial Company's steamer, St. Paul, wbereof Capt. M. C. Erskine is master, to be delivered to said company in San Francisco, Cal. Henry A. Glidden, Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, July 28,1882. Tbis is to certify tbat 100,000 fur-seal skins bave tbis day been sbipped on board tbe Alaska Commercial Company's steamer, St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master, to be delivered in San Francisco, Cal. Henry A. Glidden, Treasury Agent. Special Agent Glidden; annual report for 1882. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, H Paul Island, July 21,1882. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the sealing business at the seal islands of Alaska for the year ended July 20,1882: The catch of fur seals, as will appear by the reports tabulated and herewith submitted, has been very successful. The skins taken on this island are of better size and quality than for many years. I visited St. George Island on the 18th instant and, upon examination, found that the permission given by me in June to take 22,000 seals, as the quota upon that island, was a mistake, as the number of killable seals there was too small to allow the taking of more than 20,000. I therefore changed the quota accordingly, restoring the number to be taken from each island to where it was last year. St. Paul Island has an abundance of killable seals left after the quota is taken. The number of skins taken on St. Paul is 80,000 and on St. George 20,000, making the full quota accepted 100,000, and it is expected that the shipments will include that number. The skinning has been done by natives of the islands, and the killing also, except that done by the agents of the company, as is usual. The salting, booking, and bundling has been done, principally, by men brought from Unalaska. It has not been possible for the natives of the island to do more than the driving, killing, and skinning. The fact is that the epidemic, of which I wrote you in June, took away 13 (and 3 or 4 more died previously and since the last season) of the working force of the island, and some of them the very best men. It is becoming quite a serious question whether the native people of the island will be able to do even the killing and skinning in years to come. I have permitted boys from 12 to 16 years of age to assist what they could, in order to supply, so far as possible, the deficiency in native labor. The number of seals appearing upon the rookeries and hauling grounds does not diminish, but, from the best information I can get, gradually continues to increase. The natives have generally done their work well, and no trouble from any attempted strike, like that of last year, has been experienced. In one instance there was a manifest carelessness in cutting skins, for which I imposed a fine upon each man of $1.50. The number held responsible was 32, and the amount collected, $\S, has been placed to the credit of the general fund. There had been fines imposed and collected by my predecessors amounting to $100, which was credited to the same fund, making a total of $148 realized in this manner. I have 158 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. paid from it $2 for a pair of shoes for an orphan boy, who was destitute, leaving, at present, a balance of $146. I suggest that for the present that fund be left as it is, to be expended, in the discretion of the agent, for the benefit of native orphan children. It is a forced levy upon the funds of the natives, and should be used in some manner for their benefit. The oil fund had a balance of $557.92, as per statement of my predecessor to you. Under your instructions of April 8, 1880, to him, a part of this amount was authorized to be expended for the construction of waterworks on St. Paul Island. Two good wells have been dug and housed and provided with pumps, at an expense of $224.50, leaving a balance unexpended of $333.42. I suggest that this amount be left as it is at present, to be expended for the benefit of the natives in such manner as may hereafter be authorized by the Department. I inclose bill and receipt of the Alaska Commercial Company for materials and labor in constructing the wells. The balances above named are in the hands of the Alaska Commercial Company, and charged to them on our books. The mortality upon this island since January 1,1882, has been greater than for the same time in any year since the lease to the Alaska Commercial Company. Thirty-six deaths have taken place, of which 13 were adult males, 9 adult females, and 14 were children. Pneumonia and consumption are the principal fatal diseases. The people are irregular in their habits, careless in exposing themselves to the elements, do not have good nursing and attention while sick, and appear to be reckless and fearless of death. The chiefs and leading men have requested me to say to the Secretary that the people are unanimous in asking the restoration to them of the privilege of killing pup seals for food. They also desire that the pup skins may be given to them. In my communication of June last I discussed the question of how to dispose of pup skins to some extent, and I do not see any reason to change my opinion. There has been no manufacturing or drinking of quas by the natives since I arrived here in May. The prohibition of the sale of sugar, except for the sick, seems to have suppressed this evil, which has heretofore been a curse to the people. The amount of money to be distributed to the natives of St. Paul this year is $32,008.30. This has been equitably apportioned to the widows of sealers who have died since the end of last season, and to the present working force, according to the merits of each individual. The natives are better paid, according to the amount of work they do, than any class of laborers in this or any other country. The above amount represents the labor of 67 men and boys for this season, or from the 3d day of June to the 20th day of July. The highest number of hours' labor by any one man during that time is 358, and his share gives him $1.63 per hour for work. Each first-class share amounts to $595.50; second class, 90 per cent of first class, or $535.95, and other classes each 10 per cent less, down to and including the ninth, which was 20 per cent, the lowest. There were paid to widows $1,650 and to the priest $1,000. The payment to the priest out of this fund is customary, and seems to be in accordance with the wishes of the people. The church has now on deposit at interest $5,018.47, and is out of debt, which has been paid out of the earnings of this people. The payment to each man amounts to more than the earnings of an ordinary laboring man at the East for a year, with constant employment. In addition, the Alaska Company furnishes them with house, meat, fuel, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 159 salt, and schools free of charge. They are indeed highly favored, and, as wards of the Government, luxuriously provided for. The amount to be distributed at St. George is $8,000. This is paid to 26 men and boys, with the exception of $600 to the priest and $100 to the church. The apportionment to each is, for first class, $372.45, and each class below 10 per cent less than the one preceding it. This gives $223.05 less to a resident laborer of St. George than the same class on St. Paul. The long exemption from labor, from the end of one season to the beginning of the next, is detrimental to the natives. It is a sort of enforced idleness. They must of necessity employ their time unprofitable if not engaged in actual industry. lam told that gambling in various forms, from pitching half dollars for keeps to the more intricate and enticing game of«draw poker, is almost universally prevalent among the men. The women are the § drawers of water and the hewers of wood," and in fact perform much of the work which in a civilized community the men usually do. Many of the people are improvident. A few of them are economical and have deposits at interest with the Alaska Commercial Company, aggregating on both islands on the 1st day of June, 1881, $23,087.81. Every person receiving a share in the distribution is required to keep to his credit enough to secure to his family a weekly payment of $3 until the next distribution is made. This insures to every family a living beyond the habits or improvidence of the husband. The Alaska Commercial Company supports the widows and orphans of those sealers who have died without leaving property. The company has complied with the requirements of its lease, as will appear by the account current herewith inclosed. My assistants have performed their duties faithfully. Mr. Moulton has rendered me valuable assistance. His long experience and good judgment have been of great service to me. Mr. George Wardman and Capt. Louis Kimmel have had the charge of St. George Island, and their duties have been well performed. Messrs. Moulton and Ward- man will go to San Francisco on the return of the steamer at the end of this month. Mr. Kimmel will remain on St. George, and I shall be here during the coming winter. There have been but few seals on Otter Island during the season, and those are principally old, wounded, and played out, who require rest and hospital treatment. Lieutenant Lutz and two seamen from the revenue-cutter Gorwin have remained on the island and protected the interests of the Government there. We have had no trouble from marauders or visits of strange craft of any kind. The appropriation for carpets, allowed by your letter of April 17, 1882, has been expended—$50 here and $49.96 at St. George. The amount appropriated ($100) was too small to provide more than for two rooms. There are still three rooms in each building that need carpets or matting. I therefore ask for $100 for carpets and matting for next year. This will provide for two more rooms. The $250 authorized to be expended for repairs of buildings as per letter of November 10,1881, has been used— $150 at St. Paul and $99.60 at St. George. The furniture in the Government buildings on both islands is scant, old, much broken, and worn. The furniture for the sleeping rooms was paid for, as I am informed, by the Alaska Commercial Company. I do not think that Government agents who come here ought to be obliged to furnish the sleeping rooms in the Government building. There is no hotel or other accommodation here for them, and they can not very well 160 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. afford to purchase furniture for the limited period they usually remain here. I therefore ask that I may be permitted to expend $500 for furnishing the offices and sleeping rooms of the Government buildings on St. Paul and St. George islands. This will give but $250 to each building, which will but little, if any, more than decently furnish the offices. The agents of the Government who are willing to come to this inhospitable climate ought to be made as comfortable as is consistent with proper economy. Bishop !Nestor, of the Russo Greek Church, who came from San Francisco with me on the St. Paul, committed suicide on the 12th instant by jumping overboard from the same steamer while off the coast of Stuart Island, in Norton Sound. He was greatly beloved by his people, and respected by everybody. The health of the natives on St. George has been good. Only two deaths have occurred there in a year, and those were children. Respectfully submitted. Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden''s annual report for 1882. Alaska Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal.. in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. 1882. Dr. July 28. To shipment of fur-seal skins to date, quota 1882, 80,000. June 1. To amount of salt salmon required to be supplied for consumption by the native people, requisite quantity. June 1. To amount of coal required to be furnished for use of native people, 42 tons. June 1. To supplies of barrels and salt required to be furnished natives for the preservation of meat, requisite number and amount. June 1. To supplies agreed to be furnished native people in lieu of killing young seals for meat, requisite amount and quantity. June 1. To maintenance of schools as required by lease, eight months. 1882. Cr. July 21. By lawful quota of fur-seal skins allowed to betaken annually, quota 1882, 80,000. June 1. By amount of salt salmon supplied for consumption to the native people, requisite quantity. June 1. By amount of coal supplied for use of native people in lieu of wood, 42 tons. June 1. By barrels and salt supplied native people for preservation of meat, requisite amount and quantity. June 1. By food furnished native people to boused in lieu of young seal meat, requisite amount and quantity. June 1. By maintenance of schools commencing September 5, 1881, and closing May 15, 1882, eight months. St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 28,1882. I hereby certify that the foregoing account is correct, according to the best of my knowledge and belief. Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent, Seal Islands. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Alaska Commercial Company, San Fi'andsco, Cal., in account with the United States at St, George Island, Alaska. 1882. Dr. July 25. To shipment of fur-seal skins to date, quota 1882, 20,000. June 1. To amount of salt salmon required to be supplied for consumption by native people, requisite quantity. Juno 1. To amount of coal required to be furnished for natives' use, 18 tons. June 1. To supplies of barrels and salt required for natives' use for the preservation qf meat, requisite number and amount. June 1. To maintenance of schools as required by lease, eight months. 1882. Cr. July 21. By lawful quota of fur-seal skins allowed to be taken annually, quota 1882, 20,000. June 1. By amount of salt salmon supplied for consumption to native people, requisite quantity. June 1. By amount of coal supplied for use of native people in lieu of wood, 18 tons. June 1. By barrels and salt supplied for natives for preservation of meat, requisite amount and quantity. June 1. By maintenance of schools commencing September 5, 1881, and closing May 15,1882, eight months. St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 28,1882. I hereby certify that the foregoing account is correct, according to my best knowledge and belief. Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, I). C. Consolidated annual return of fur seals killed at the seal islands of Alaska in the year ended July 20, 1882. Killed for natives' food. Killed by A. 0. Co. for their skins. Aggregate. oo OS CD co a 3 O h CD cd) U eg rA CO A 0 Skins rejected. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. | "« o P3 \V hen and where killed. 0 o & CD K "en (-i CD a 1 CD Otj 03 S3 CO CD g O 00 CD co OS C3 T—1 u o -* S 0 © o +3 0 o CD *0D S 09 P. 1 ® j; -i OS A 0 -^ o rH •0 CD 'M OS 53 O ST. PAUL ISLAND. 1881. July 240 763 678 1,818 2,316 80 111 372 240 487 240 August 13 263 763 September 678 678 October * 8 13 3 443 30 443 November 1,810 2,303 77 111 370 37, 051 37. 440 1,848 2 316 1882. 80 February 111 Mav O u 372 June 36,587 36,822 464 708 12 26 4 19 17 37, 084 July 37.485 Left over, 1881 111 . ........ .. Total 6,851 A 11,414 73,409 1,172 38 23 17 80, 000 81, 420 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. 1881. July 88 201 205 88 194 32 88 August 7 201 173 118 205 October. 118 113 ...... 118 November 1,031 1,036 | 108 1,144 H. Doc. 92- -11 162 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Consolidated annual return of fur seals killed at the seal islands of Alaska in the year ended July 20,1882—Continued. Killed for nat) ives' food. Killed by A. C. Co. for their skins. Aggregate. OS 'eg CD OB be 0 3 o CD bt> u eg § CO ft 0 P Skins rejected. SkiDS accepted. Skins rejected. Received by A. C. Co. W lien and where killed. 0 o CD .2 "oB u CD 0 >> CD bo eg CO CD i u rU o . cp OS eg o o -rg "Si 43 0 o CD § 'r. CQ u <D •0 0 ^§ O OS eg u p O r* Total killed. ST. GEOBGE ISLAND—cont'd. 1882. 60 60 6,699 12, 767 52 60 6,699 12. 767 9 30 3 13 6,711 July 12, 810 Left over. 1881. ... 1 1 Total 785 1,031 — 1,043 291 19,466 39 :f*vs$ 16 20,000 21,337 Total both islands ... 7, 636 1,031 39 1,043 1,705 92,875 1,172 77 23 33 100,000 102,757 St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 21,1882. I hereby certify that the foregoing is correct, according to my knowledge and belief. Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Assistant Agent Wardman; report of interview with Mr. Grebnitzky, manager of Russian seal islands. Special Agent's Office, San Francisco, Gal., November 6, 1882. Sir: On October 27 the bark Alexander arrived in this port with abont 45,000 fur-seal skins, mainly from Copper and Bering islands. She also brought as passenger Mr. Nicholas Grebnitzky, who, during the past five years has been the chief representative of the Russian Government on those islands. Believing that some account of the condition of the seal interests in Russian waters might be acceptable to your Department, I sought and obtained an interview with Mr. Grebnitzky, from whom I received the substance of the following statement. During the five years of Mr. Grebnitzky's administration there has been a gradual increase of seals upon the islands in question. Mr. Grebnitzky thinks there are " millions" of seals which resort annually to those islands, but the ratio of increase may be practically understood from a glance at the figures of the number killed within the time of Mr. Grebnitzky's personal supervision. The fur seals killed on those islands during the time stated is given, in round numbers, thus: First year, 11,000 j second year, 20,000 j third year, 32,000 j fourth year, 48,000 j fifth year (1882), 45,000. He avers that a much larger number might have been taken this year on those islands but for a want of salt to preserve the skins. The selection of seals to be killed on Copper and Bering islands is made as on the islands belonging to the United States. On the Russian islands neither female seals nor pups are killed. ALASKA INDUSTRIES: 163 Of the skins brought down in the Alexander this year about 4,000 were taken from Robbin Reef, in the Okhotsk Sea, where they are killed very close in order to defeat the marauders who resort thither, the Russian Government not desiring any seals to establish breeding grounds there. Mr. Grebnitzky also submitted maps indicating the area of the rookeries and their increase in extent during the past five years on Copper and Bering islands. In answer to a question, Mr. Grebnitzky stated he did not believe that any of the increase in the number of seals on Copper and Bering islands was due to migration from the American side. On the contrary, he does not believe that the seals from the American and the Russian islands mingle or meet in their annual migrations to the south. He gives it as his opinion that the seals from Copper and Bering islands keep along the west side of Bering Sea and the Pacific Ocean, while it is generally understood that the seals from the American possessions remain more in American waters. Mr. Grebnitzky thinks there is a wide expanse in mid ocean where no seals are ever seen. This view of the matter is sustained by a statement of a member of the Alaska Commercial Company, who says that there is such a difference in the quality of the fur of the Alaska and Russian seals that though the skins might be mixed in the shipment, every skin from the Russian side would be detected by the dealer in London, the Alaska skin always bringing the highest price. My reasons for inquiring particularly about this is that it has been suggested by a scientific writer on seal life that it is quite possible our fur seals may some day migrate to breeding grounds on the Russian side. In the course of this interview with Mr. Grebnitzky it was stated that the fur-seal skins from Robbin Reef are very inferior to those from the other islands. The fur is fine enough, but after the skin has been dressed the fur falls out in spite of every effort to prevent it, For this reason the Robbin Reef skins are kept separate from the Copper and Bering skins when sent to market. Some years the Robbin Reef skins find a sale to inexperienced dealers, who think that they can cure them, but the old dealers will not touch them, Mr. Grebnitzky states that the natives employed in the work of sealing report the Robbin Reef skins thinner and lighter than those obtained upon the other islands. This thinness of the skin may be taken as a reason why the fur falls out, and the thinness is thought to be due to the fact that those seals resort to the waters which are warmed by the Japan current. A similar influence may account for the fact also that the Copper and Bering skins are inferior to those obtained in Alaska. There is no doubt that the temperature of both the air and water at our islands in Bering Sea is considerably lower than in the vicinity of the seal islands on the Russian side. That difference is doubtless much greater than is indicated by the latitude of the localities in question. The manner of taking seals on the Russian islands does not appear to be very different from that pursued upon the American islands. The same sort of natives are employed and they are governed similarly, though it appears that the Russian administrator is invested with more authority than is exercised by the United States Treasury agents in charge on the Pribilof group. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Geo. WArdman, Assistant Special Agent. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. 164 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 1, 1883 , is as Males: 1883. Special Agent Glidden; annual report for 1883. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaslca, July 30, 1883. Sir : I submit the following as my annual report of the condition of affairs of the seal islands of Alaska for the year ending July 30,1883. The health of the natives on both islands has been unusually good; no epidemic has occurred and few deaths have taken place. The population of St. Paul, as by census taken on the 1st day of January, 1883, is as follows: Whole number of actual residents (77 families), 231. Males: Adults, 62; from 5 to 17 years, 21; under 5 years, 18. Females: Adults, 76; from 5 to 17 years, 38; under 5 years, 16. The population of St. George, as by census of August follows: Whole number of actual residents (27 families), 104. Adults, 23; youths, 18; infants, 3. Females: Adults, 32; youths, 22; infants, 6. The conduct of the people has been exceptionally good since my last report. There has been no making or drinking of quas, so far as 1 am informed, and no case of intoxication has come to my knowledge. This is undoubtedly the result of stopping the sale of sugar, except in cases of sickness and upon the order of the physician in charge. The people are very orderly and peaceable. There has been no disturbance of any kind except in one instance, hereafter mentioned. They dress and live well, and imitate the Americans in that respect to a large degree. They have been obedient to my orders and are easily controlled. They are but grown children in many respects, and at times need moderate punishment. All that is necessary to control them is firmness and uniformity of discipline. There has been no disposition manifested on their part to refuse or fail to perform the labor required of them. The Alaska Commercial Company brought by the steamer St. Paul from Unalaska a number of natives and a few whites as laborers to do the salting, bundling, and handling of skins, and such other labor, outside of flaying and killing, as needed to be done. Owing to the depression in the market of fur-seal skins at the last London sale, the Alaska Commercial Company take but 75,000 skins as the full complement of this season's catch. These have been apportioned at 60,000 from St. Paul and 15,000 from St. George. This will make the payment as a share on St. George rather small for the support of a family. Perhaps it would be a better plan to bring a part of the working force from St. George here for the season and then make a distribution of the proceeds of both islands as if they were both one and consider the proceeds as belonging to the whole people of both islands. The manner of payment I consider a matter of discretion with the Alaska Commercial Company, and whatever plan they adopt which does no injustice to the people I should feel disposed to concur in. The people of St. George, for the first time in the history of that island, have the benefit of a regular priest and church services. Rev. Innokenty Leisnikoff was sent there last fall and with his family has become a resident of St. George. There have been no pup seals killed on either island for food during the past year. In lieu of pup meat the Alaska Commercial Company ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 165 have furnished for St. Paul 10,000 pounds of corned beef, 5,390 pounds of potatoes, 2,400 pounds of lard, and 1,400 pounds of onions, and for St. George, 4,000 pounds of beef, 2,820 pounds of potatoes, 1,200 pounds of lard, and 822 pounds of onions. Should the company for the coming year supply the same quantity of food for native use I shall not permit the killing of pups for food. Should the company fail to do so, permission to kill a limited number will be given and the skins be delivered to the natives for their own use. I have not received any reply to my recommendations upon this subject, but consider the instructions given to my predecessors and now on file here to be in accordance with the above. The Alaska company have performed the conditions of their lease, and the agents are uniformly kind to the natives and very liberal in providing for their necessities. I have found it necessary to fine one native $5 for an assault upon his wife at a public dance. I have also, in my endeavor to secure punctual attendance at school, tried the experiment of imposing a slight fine of 50 cents upon the parent or guardian for every absence of a scholar without permission. It is about the only practicable way of enforcing the principles of compulsory education upon these people, and has proved very effectual after a few collections of the fine. The amount realized by these fines for the whole eight months is $37.50. I also fined two men $2 each for going upon the breeding rookery. The fines aforesaid are placed to the credit of the general fund and deposited with and charged to the Alaska Commercial Company. The balance to credit of this fund at last report was $146. Fines collected as above stated, $46.50; paid out for cleaning streets, $11.45; leaving a balance of $181.05, which I think should be left here to be expended for the benefit of the natives. I am advised by Captain Moulton, my assistant, that the collector at San Francisco is, by Department letter dated October 16,1882, authorized to expend $100 for carpets for Government buildings upon the seal islands. I have therefore certified bills for that amount, dividing it equally between St. Paul and St. George. I have a letter, a copy of which I inclose, from the assistant agent at St. George, asking for an approprition of $125 to be expended for repairs and papering and painting upon the Government building there. I visited the island during the present week and, after examination, concur in the request. I also request an appropriation of $200 for painting, papering, and repairing the house at St. Paul. The inside of the house should be thoroughly painted during the ensuing year. The dampness and the smoke from burning soft coal render frequent renovation by paint and paper necessary. There are repairs, such as resetting glass in outside windows, new outside door to caledor (hall), and other small items which must be attended to. The seals were much later and slower in coming upon the islands than usual this season, and even with the limited quota to be obtained, it has been difficult to get the 15,000 killable seals upon St. George of the requisite size within the two months usually devoted to that purpose. I inclose consolidated report of seals killed, account current, and shipping receipt for as many as have thus far been taken from the islands. The balance will be shipped later in the season, as there are a few thousand on St. George not yet ready for shipment. Mr. Kimmel, assistant agent at St. George, and myself will go to San 166 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Francisco by steamer St. Paul, leaving about the 1st of August. Mr. Moulton will remain here and Mr. Wardman at St. George in charge. Respectfully, yours, Henry A. Glidden, Special Agent Sealjslands. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Glidden's annual report for 1883. Shipping receipt, quota of 1883. Island of St. George, August 1, 1883. This is to certify that 7,806 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt M.'C. Erskine, master, for San Francisco, Cal M. C. Erskine. Louis Kimmel, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, July 30, 1888. This is to certify that 60,000 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, Capt. M. C. Erskine, master, for San Francisco, Cal. M. C. Erskine. Henry A. Glidden, Treasury Agent. Inclosure with Glidden's annual report for 1883. The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. Dr. 1882. Aug. 1. To supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 42 tons; of fish, 60 barrels; of salt, 75 bags of 100 pounds each; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. 1883. Cr. May 4. By supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 42 tons; of fish, 60 barrels; of salt, 75 bags of 100 pounds each; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. George Island, Alaska. Dr. 1882. Aug. 1. To supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 18 tons; of fish, 20 barrels; of salt, 25 bags of 100 pounds eaoh; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. 1883. Cr. May 4. By supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 18 tons; of fish, 20 barrels; of salt, 25 bags of 100 pounds each; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 167 1884. ;| Special Agent Glidden; annual report for 1884. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, July 31, 1884. Sir: I have the honor to submit to you my annual report of the condition of affairs at the seal islands, Alaska, for the year ended July 30, 1884. The census of St. Paul, taken January 1,1884, shows: Total number of natives belonging to the island, 219; residents of other islands visiting here, 11; total, 230, composed of 99 males and 131 females. The number of births were 19, deaths 26, marriages 5. The census of St. George, taken January 1, 1884, shows: Total number of native inhabitants, 111, composed of 47 males and 64 females. Number of births 6, deaths 3, marriages none. The seal life on the islands appears to be as large and flourishing as ever. The killable seals came to the islands in greater numbers earlier in the season than last year. The catch this season is 100,000, the full number to which the Alaska Commercial Company is entitled under their lease. Eighty-five thousand are taken from St. Paul and 15,000 from St. George. The experiment of taking a few men from St. George to assist in doing the work on St. Paul, in accordance with permission granted in your letter of instructions of the 28th of February, last, has been tried, and a proper distribution of the proceeds of their labor from St. Paul to St. George has been made. It has worked well and given entire satisfaction. The habits of the natives of both islands have greatly improved as to cleanliness, good order, and conduct, the improved manner of doing their work, and their willing obedience to all that has been required of them. There have been three cases of drunkenness on St. Paul, from which I have realized fines to the amount of $20. The cause of this was whisky obtained from one of the cooks on board the steamer St. Paul. I have seen no evidence of quas upon the islands. Fines to the amount of $16 have been imposed for minor offenses and the total amount placed to the credit of the general fund. The condition of this fund is as follows: Balance as per report of 1883, $181.05; received for fines since, $36; paid for cleaning streets, $22.85; leaving a balance of $194.20, which, unless you otherwise direct, will remain here to be expended for the benefit of the natives as occasion may require. The condition of the oil fund is as follows: Balance as per report of 1883, $333.42; expended for pumps and repairs, as per voucher herewith, $71.40; balance, $262.02, which will be needed in repairing and purchasing new pumps from time to time. The natives are very improvident and destructive in the use of pumps, and it is -difficult to find any which they do not easily destroy. No attempt at marauding has been made upon St. Paul Island during the past year. I inclose report of Assistant Agent George Wardman, giving an account of the appearance of a vessel off St. George with the apparent intent of taking seals. During the sealing season, from the 1st of June to the 10th of August, vessels do not attempt to take seals on or near the islands. The employees of the Alaska Commercial Com* 168 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. pany on the islands are there on the rookeries nearly every day. After the season is past but few white men are left, the rookeries are not often visited, the steamer St. Paul and the revenue cutter have departed, and marauders know that it is comparatively safe to attempt a landing for the purpose of catching seals. If the revenue cutter could cruise the sea near the islands from August 10 to November 1, there would be no marauding. I recommend that so far as possible this service of the cutter be required. In accordance with the authority given to the collector of customs at San Francisco to purchase furniture for the seal islands to the amount of $500, purchases to that amount have been made, and I have approved vouchers for the same. The amount was too small to purchase even the necessary articles needed for both buildings. The prices paid to the Alaska Company were really too small to fully compensate them, but their liberality enabled me to get most of the necessary articles requisite. I ask for a further appropriation of $115 for St. Paul to purchase the following articles: One desk for office, $40; 1 revolving chair, $10; 1 easy chair, $10; 1 center table, $20; 2 toilet sets, $10; 1 stove and pipe, $25. Also an appropriation of $25 for the purchase of a new stove and pipe for the house on St. George. The appropriation for repairs of Government building on St. Paul, as per letters of the Supervising Architect of the Department of September 3,1883, and February 7,1884, has, so far as required, been expended. The appropriation of $125 for repairs on St, George has not been used. I found upon examination and an estimate made by a competent mechanic that it will cost $300 to make the repairs contemplated and actually necessary. I therefore ask for $300 for repairs on St. George Island during the coming year. I also ask for an appropriation of $100 for St. Paul and $50 for St. George to be expended in the purchase of carpets and matting for the Government buildings. The pup skins in salt upon the island of St. George were of no use to the natives, and of no commercial value, and, in accordance with instructions contained in your letter of February 28,1 have caused them to be destroyed. A limited number of pup seals were killed last fall for native food, and the skins given to the natives for clothing and the manufacture of blankets. The school maintained on St. Paul during the past year has been more than usually prosperous under the guidance of a new teacher. The number of pupils registered was 54, and the average daily attendance for eight months 51.59. In this we challenge comparison with the schools of an enlightened civilization. The Alaska Commercial Company have complied with the terms of their lease. I inclose account current with the company. 1 also inclose consolidated report of seals taken and duplicate certificates of shipments of seal skins. 1 have visited St. George Island, and 15,000 seals there exhausted the killable my opinion, to endanger the seal life. I quota for that island be limited to 10,000 will enable the seal life to recuperate from its present exhausted condition. The Alaska Commercial Company can take more men "from St. George to assist on St. Paul, and thereby keep the distributive share of the proceeds upon St. George up to its usual standard. Assistant Agents Moulton and Wardman will go to San Francisco ascertain that the taking of seals to such an extent as, in therefore recommend that the for at least three vears. This ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 169 by the St. Paul. Assistant Agent-Fowler will remain on St. George, and 1 shall stay here during the coming winter. Very respectfully, yours, Henry A. Glidden, Treasury Agent, Seal Islands. Hon. Charles J. Folger, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden's annual report for 1884. Shipping receipt, quota of 1884. Island of St. George, July 28,1884. This is to certify that 10,000 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company;s steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master, for San Francisco, Cal. M. C. Erskine, Master. Geo. Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden's annual report for 1884. Shipping receipt, quoia of 1884. Island of St. Paul, August —, 1884. This is to certify that 84,960 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul to be delivered at San Francisco, Cal. M. C. Erskine, Master. H. A. Glidden, Treasury Agent. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden-s annual report for 1884. Shipping receipt, quota of 1883. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, Alaska, September 5, 1883. This is to certify that 470 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner Mathew Turner, H. Anderson, master, for transshipment at Unalaska for San Francisco. Geo. Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent. H. Anderson, Master of Vessel. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden's annual report for 1884. Shipping receipt, quota of 1883. Island of St. George, September 19,1883. This is to certify that 3,180 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner Mathew Turner, H. Anderson, master. Geo. Wardman, Assistant Treasury Agent. H. Anderson, Master. 170 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosure with Special Agent Glidden's annual report for 1884. Consolidated annual report of fur seals killed at the seal islands of Alaska during the year ended July 31,1884. Killed for natives' food. Where and when killed. Paps. Large yonng seals. Total. Skins accepted by lessees. Skins rejected. Under size. Stagey. Out. ST. PAUL ISLAND. 1883. • 552 587 400 558 841 213 649 552 587 1,962 1,978 841 213 649 541 165 11 September . 422 400 119 October.... ............ 1,562 1,420 1,562 1,420 18 16 November ................. 438 823 197 649 1 December 1884. Mav Total 2,982 3,800 • 6,782 2,813 3,016 941 12 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. 1883. 210 54 210 54 660 511 67 143 3 62 54 2 September ......... October . ....... ... 660 340 660 340 1 171 67 171 66 1884. May.. Total 1,000 502 1,502 380 1,004 116 2 Killed by the lessees for skins. Aggregates. Where and when killed. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Total number of skins rejected. Total number of skins received i by lessees. Total number of seals killed during the year. Prime. Second olass. TJnder size. For Cut. 1 other reasons. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Balance over shipment, 1883.. 101 541 165 1883. 11 422 1,962 1,540 18 16 552 September................. ........ 587 1,962 November 438 823 197 649 35,271 46, 815 1,978 841 1884. 213 May 649 June.. .............. 34,936 336 46.150 664 63 37 5 22 69 58 35,340 July 46,878 Total 81,086 1,000 100 27 4,096 85,000 88,995 ST. GEOBGE ISLAND. 1883. 67 54 660 340 1 76 81 143 210 September................. I 54 October.................... I 660 171 66 5,378 9,242 511 1884. May .. ... ...... 67 June July 5,124 8,819 254 40 423 27 2 4 34 5,454 9,273 Total 13,943 1 677 1 67 1 6 34 1 1,229 15,000 16, 229 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 171 The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. 1883. Dr. August 1. To supply of coal for native use, as per lease, 40 tons; of fish, 60 barrels; of salt, 75 sacks of 100 pounds each; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, 8 months. 1883. Cr. August 9. By supply of coal for native use, as per lease, 40 tons; of fish, 60 barrels; of salt, 75 sacks of 100 pounds each; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, 8 months. *\ St. George Island. 1883. . Dr. August 1. To supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 20 tons; of fish, 20 barrels; of salt, requisite quantity; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, 8 months. 1884. Cr. June 30. By supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 20 tons; of fish, 20 barrels; of salt, requisite quantity; of barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, 8 months. 1885. Special Agent Tingle; annual report for 1885. St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 31,1885. Sir: I have the honor to submit herewith my report as Treasury- agent in charge of the seal islands of St. Paul and St. George, Alaska, for the year ending with this sealing season, which closed on the 27th instant. The Alaska Commercial Company commenced killing on the 3d of June and closed on the 27th of July, thus securing their full quota of 100,000 skins in forty one working days. The operation of killing and skinning the seals was closely watched by Captain Loud, assistant Treasury agent, and myself, and the skins carefully counted in the salt houses by the lessee's agent under the supervision of Capt. A. P. Loud, and again counted aboard the lessee's steamer St. Paul by myself, as shown by my statement herewith marked A. You will also find inclosed a duplicate certificate of the steamer St. Paul covering the shipments. I have also furnished one to the captain of the steamer, and forwarded one to the collector of customs at San Francisco, retaining one in this office. The sealing season closed very satisfactorily on both islands, the drives were generally easily made, and with but slight loss from overdriving. I have made a careful estimate of the number of seals of all ages killed and lost from all causes during the killing season, and am sure the wastage will not exceed 500, or one half of 1 per cent. This loss seems large, but it is unavoidable, as in killing in ¥ pods" it sometimes happens that a blow aimed at a killable seal is received in part by a youngster suddenly popping his head up. These accidents I estimate will result in the death of 300 seals during the season, while the number killed or dying on the drive will reach 200. Of these, all seals of acceptable size are skinned and counted. The natives have been cautioned repeatedly by the Treasury agent to use great care on the drives, and in all their work pertaining to the taking of the skins, and I am gratified to state with good effect, as the number of cut skins 172 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. accepted by the lessees last year was 1,000 j same this year, 253; under size rejected last year, 100; this year, 9; cut rejected last year, 27; this year, 33. The rookeries are all in good condition and well filled with bulls and cows. At this date the pups are "podding out" in vast numbers. It is the opinion of the old timers here, and also my judgment, that there is no diminution in the number of seals hauling, either male or female, by reason of the annual slaughter of 100,000. The lessees had no difficulty in securing within the forty-one days they worked their full quota of 100,000 from the most convenient rookeries. There is one fine rookery of bachelors at Southwest Point from which the lessees do not drive, it being somewhat inconvenient and there being a surplus of killable seals at the more accessible rookeries. There is a large surplus of old bulls. They are generally late arrivals at the breeding rookeries, and driven off by those established on the grounds who prove themselves, after hard-fought battles, themost courageous. These vanquished old veterans haul up with the bachelors, who are too young to contend with the old masters, or assume the responsible position of heads of families, and are of necessity taken in the drives, as they can not be separated. Most of the seals killed on the drive results from the old bulls laying on them and smothering their lives out; they are also obstinate and savage in the 1 pods " when the men are killing. This large surplus of old bulls is of no use whatever in augmenting the seal product. I would therefore respectfully recommend that 2,000 of the oldest bulls, from the surplus driven up, be killed next year; not exceeding 1,500 on St. Paul Island, and not exceeding 500 on St. George Island, at the discretion of the Treasury agent, the skins to be taken by the natives for their own use and benefit, but without any compensation for killing and skinning. I am informed by some of the old natives that under Eussian rule it was their custom to kill a portion of the surplus bulls every five years. The excess of old bulls is the accumulation of fifteen years, as the Treasury Department has not within that time issued an order for a reduction of the number. The skin of an old bull is of little or no value. Some are used for covering bidarahs and bidarkas (boats) and as covering for the natives' blubber casks; beyond this, so far as I know, they are of no value. The management of the Alaska Commercial Company's business and its manner of dealing with the natives is liberal and satisfactory. The prices charged the natives for all necessaries of life and domestic goods are reasonable and fair. It does not encourage them to spend their earnings for articles of no practical use, as they would do if they had the opportunity, but the company supplies their store with a full and complete stock of goods, such as any family might require for their comfort. The result is the natives have a large sum to their credit in the hands of the company, drawing 4 per cent interest. I find the company very careful to do all required of it under the contract, and go even further than required. The natives on both islands are all comfortably housed, well paid, well fed, and happy. The sanitary condition of the villages of St. Paul and St. George is very good, the moral and physical condition of the people good. They are law-abiding, readily obeying the orders of the Treasury agents. Indeed, it would be hard to find two as well-contented and well-behaved communities in the States, where they have the benefit of civilization and refinement and restraints of law. They seem to understand perfectly their relation to the Government, and respect the laws governing these islands. -— ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 173 Yital statistics of the islands for 1884 and 1885 are as follows Males. Females. Total. Marriages. Births. Deaths. St. Paul: 1884 99 97 47 46 131 140 64 65 230 237 111 111 5 2 19 16 26 1885. , 12 St. George: 1884 1885 7 4 TAX ON SKINS. I beg to suggest that under present orders from your Department the tax or duty is paid on the count as made by the counters detailed for that purpose by the collector of customs at San Francisco, when in my judgment the tax should be collected on the count of the agent of the Treasury in charge of the islands making the shipment. Section 1909 of the Eevised Statutes requires the payment of a u revenue tax or duty upon each fur-seal skin taken and shipped." It is clearly contemplated by this section of the law that the tax shall be determined on the count of the Treasury agent counting and shipping the skins. There is another reason in favor of this view of the case. Suppose the vessel, for any cause, should not be able to deliver all or any of the skins to the collector at San Francisco to be counted under the order of a former Secretary of the Treasury; would the lessees be liable to pay the duty on the count of the Treasury agent? Or, in other words, does not the Government under that order virtually guarantee the safe delivery of the skins (so far as the duty is concerned) to the collector at San Francisco ? The lessees, having a greater money interest in the skins, would no doubt use every means at their command to safely deliver the skins to the collector; but I submit that the count made at the point of shipment is the one contemplated by section 1969 of the law upon which the tax should be paid. PIRATES. Three marauding vessels have been sighted this season cruising around the islands of St. George and St. Paul, and have been heard shooting seals in the water, but so far have not landed or disturbed any of the rookeries. The Treasury agents on both islands keep vigilant watch, but owing to the long distance between rookeries it would be entirely possible for a vessel to land a crew in small boats and make a killing on shore, and get away without being seen. Captain Loud and myself have made two trips by boat and on foot to points where shooting was reported by the natives to have been heard without seeing the vessels or any evidence on shore of their having landed. Mr. T. J. Eyan, assistant Treasury agent at St. George, watched a schooner off Zapadnie rookery, St. George, for ten days. She remained in sight most of the time, and sent her crew out in small boats to shoot seals in the water, but was so far out at sea that she could not be reached by open boat, the only means Mr. Eyan had at his command with which to reach the pirate. On Sunday, the 12th of July, while the lessees' steamer Dora was on her course from St. Michaels, via St. Paul, to Unalaska, she sighted a schooner about 15 miles from St. Paul, and, under orders from me to go alongside of any suspicious craft he might fall in with, he stood for the schooner with full steam and sail. When close 174 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. enough to see with his glass, he discovered her crew (about 20 men) very busy on deck. He could not tell whether they were throwing cargo overboard, or disposing of it otherwise. The men all disappeared on the nearer approach of the steamer, which was not long coming alongside of the schooner, whose name was painted out. The captain, when asked by Captain Hogue of the steamer Dora, said he was from Victoria, and gave the name of his vessel as the Adele, but Captain Hogue recognized her as the same piratical schooner captured here last fall by Lieutenant Lutz, of the revenue marine, with her crew ashore killing seals on the rookery, and loading them in their boats. She was taken to San Francisco by Lieutenant Lutz, who landed her safely and delivered her to the authorities. The voyage from here in her was a very dangerous one, and the exposure to which Lieutenant Lutz was subjected so prostrated him and shattered his health that he is still an invalid. The authorities released the vessel, and set all hands free; and the Government relieved Lieutenant Lutz of his commission. This is the reward of an officer in the faithful discharge of his duty. The captain of the steamer Dora not having any authority to board her, had to let iier go to ply her unlawful avocation. The captain of the schooner acknowledged that he thought the Dora was the revenue cutter Cor win when she started for him, as they are very similar vessels. The presence of this marauder the next season after being captured and released, shows the boldness of her captain and his disregard for the laws. The positive knowledge of these marauding vessels' hovering around the islands, constantly violating the law, brings me to a matter briefly referred to in my letter to the Department June 7, viz, the necessity for better protection of seal life in these waters adjacent to the seal fisheries. The Treasury agents are not provided with a craft of any kind in which to pursue and board a marauder. We go after them as best we can, by borrowing a work mule, or walk, or open rowboat. One Winchester rifle, which I brought with me, is the only gun on the island, provided with ammunition, ready for business, should occasion require it. It is a matter of great astonishment that these islands have for fifteen years escaped a raid from a crew of desperate men. Because they have not been so visited is no argument in favor of future escape. A vessel with a crew of 25 well-armed, determined men, of less courage than a gang who would rob a jewelry store or bank in New York in daylight, could land here any time and "hold up" the dozen white men, unprepared for defense, and guard them, while 5 armed men could compel all the natives to turn out and load aboard the vessel all the seal skins salted in the company's salt houses; then go to St. George Island and do the same thing. The pirate, having secured the whole of the company's valuable catch, could sail off to China or some other part of the world before the company's vessel could get here. Such a thing is perfectly feasible and the great wonder to me is that it has not been done. The exposed position of the seal islands and the manner of the lessees' management of their business is yearly becoming better known, through the half dozen sailors they bring up every spring to work as laborers. They go back to San Francisco in the fall and ship on vessels of all characters. The immense value ($1,500,000) of the skins, salted and bundled ready to ship, offers a rich prize, for men to take the risk, which is slight compared with the value they would secure, and the peculiar wording of the law would exempt the lessees from the payment of the tax ($262,500), as it is computed " on skins taken and shipped," instead of on skins taken and counted by the Treasury agent, as it should, in my judgment, read. While in your ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 175 contract with the Alaska Commercial Company you do not agree to guarantee them against marauders, yet the seal fisheries yield to the Government a revenue so large, compared with the trifling outlay for salaries of Treasury agents, it is my judgment the Government interests should be better protected, that the value of the special reservation in these isolated and unfrequented waters may not be impaired. I therefore strongly urge that one of the Government's swiftest revenue cutters be assigned to special duty at the Pribilof Islands, Alaska, to cruise, from the 15th of May, around the islands, andrSmain in these waters as late as it is safe for her to remain and get to winter harbor, or at least until the seals disappear in the fall. The presence of a cutter as indicated would deter all violators of the law from coming here to ply their business, and protect seal life from their unlawful enemies. The natives on the islands of St. Paul and St. George look upon the Treasury agent as their friend and protector as against the company employing them, and to him they appeal in case of any imaginary or real grievance. He is regarded by them as their governor and judge. It will not be for theirs or the Government's best interests that either island should at any time be without a resident Treasury agent. I therefore recommend the appointment of a third assistant Treasury agent (vice H. G. Fowler, removed), to report, by the May steamer of next year, to the Treasury agent in charge at St. Paul Island, for assignment to duty and instructions. I close this report with the hope you will concur in the following recommendations: (1) The tax or duty on skins to be paid on the Treasury agent's count. (2) That 2,000 old bull seals be killed next year. (3) That a revenue cutter be stationed here to cruise around the Pribilof Islands. (4) The appointment of a third assistant Treasury agent. I am, very respectfully, Geo. E. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Hon. D. Manning, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Inclosures with Special Agent Tingle's annual report for 1885; shipping receipts, quota of 1885. Island of St. Paul, August 15, 1885. This is to certify that 84,996 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Island of St. Geokge, August 15,1885. This is to certify that 15,000 far-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master. T. F. Ryan, Assistant Treasury Agent. supplemental report. August 5,1885. Sir : Since writing my report I received, by steamer St. Paul, on yesterday the official report of T. J. Eyan, assistant Treasury agent in charge of St. George Island, to which I respectfully call your attention and which I herewith transmit, retaining a copy in my office, as I ssssgaM 176 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. deem it of sufficient importance to ask for it a careful perusal. He gives in detail the efforts he has put forth to protect the island of St. George. Notwithstanding, the marauders landed at a breeding rookery and killed over 500 seals,1 securing their skins. Eeturning later, they were discovered by Mr. Eyan and escaped, leaving behind 112 skins, their clubs, etc. The skins were salted in the company's salt house, which I will get the company to accept, or as many as they will, on next year's quota, and hold the remainder subject to your order. The three vessels we have sighted this year, in the sealing business in violation of law, have undoubtedly secured a valuable cargo, which will induce them to return next year with stronger force. There is a firm in San Francisco supposed to be the beneficiaries of these marauders, but to prove it is the question. I anticipate considerable trouble protecting the rookeries after the steamer leaves us, but will do all in my power, with the limited means at my command. Should Captain Healey, of the revenue cutter T. Corwin, arrive here, as is expected, within a short time, I shall inform him fully as to the operations of the marauders, with the hope that his orders may admit of his cruising around the seal islands until the seals are gone, otherwise the unlawful sealers will not leave as long as they are doing well. All of which is respectfully submitted. Geo. E. Tingle, Treasury Agent. 1 Since writing this I have visited St. George and, from personal investigation, find that the number killed exceeds 500 by from 200 to 300. 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OrOs o"3 O es O p) O 5 Or-J O^ OQ O cc O § o p l CO -* ■* leocM CM m n o ic n i- O) c o o h H ;i m .", co ■* -j o c M>- x cc O) c. o o n n hi CMCMCMClCMeMCNCMCOeO HHHlHH I1 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 179 «OSCOI>t-eOt~CMCOrHO0COTiHCO|>.COrHO0 iaco©coinoHnnr-HO)NiMi>Hioooci5ffl CSrHCOrHt-CMCOlftCOlft00t--*J't-eDCOCOTf< W N N H H N N H CM lft CO —h oc CM OS CM 1— CO 0 aT 00 0 rH rH •rH • • I 1 fl • ( c^ rH CO Ttf CO CO lft OOCO t- t— -H t— CM CO O 00 O -^ OS t- CO rH lft CM CO rH lft00«0C01ftO-<+ll0rH0SCMC<lC~C000OC0C3S rHOO OS rH CC rH t> CM CO lft CO lft 00 t-■** t-CO CO CO ">* CMOS ef ef w h" h cf n i-TccTcNf 33 I 84,996 tH CJ 1—1 CO ■* OO CM rH a Tjl-iHrtlTflCMCOCMOrH'^i-lt-rHCO rH rH CM OSCOrH CS O CM rH cc is (M rH "* OS CO lft lft lft CM lft CO t- CO CO CO t- -# 00 ■>* COCO lft CO lft CO lft OS-^1 ^ rH 00 CN) O t-rH 00 OS CM t— Ot- OS rH CO rH C-rH CO lft CO lft 00 t—-<# t-CO lft CO-"41 CMOS cf n n h rT cf ci h n cnT CM O t- cm" 00 CM 00 rH T-H lft rH O O CM 00 0 rH CO" CO CO co" T-H CM H- p- 45 a ci a c Sz 4- P" 4* a a 4 P 0 c !■*■ 'c P- K p 1 42 I P P. 4; a ">C C fcs 4= 4: a a "£ a w r5 4. a © ) 4S 4S | 42 c rZ j 5 4^ P. 4; a a a 1 cv* a ! r— ri 1 4= c i r> P 0 « 4= 4- / C rl 'c _ 0 **— r5 4= "c 0 r- + 0 rC CC 4^ c p- K k*. [3 w © •rH <S " K c3 1 M, _r 4 •rH rt" 0 "~ 'N c - « W P .2 J* Frl P- 4 pr f5 S d 4^ * c 0 tP '■*= P | 0 i 0 £ ift r- IG T- CO I— H r- cc H oc r- c CM O CM CN CNI CM CM CO CN CM lft CM CM 180 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Inclosure with Tingle!'s annual report for 1885. St. Paul Island, June 15,1885. General fund United States to Alaska Commercial Company, Dr. To labor and material furnished for building native coal house at St. Paul Island $150.00 Received payment. Alaska Commercial Company By Leon Sloss, General Agent. The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. 3^ DR. June 1,1885% To balance general-fund account turned over by H. A. Glidden, ex-Treasury agent $204.70. July 12, 1885. Fine imposed on Vicelu Mandegren 2.00 206.70 July 12, 1885. To balance 56.70 Junel, 1885. To balance oil account turned over by H. A. Glidden, ex- Treasury agent 188.02 CR. June 15, 1885. By material and labor for native coal house 150.00 Balance 56.70 206 70 I had this coal house built in the village for the storage of natives' fuel, and to save the females the drudgery of packing it on their backs a half mile from the beach, where it has heretofore been left off the vessel, in an old dilapidated Russian building. Respectfully, Geo. R. Tinule, Treasury Agent. I* ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 181 Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 20,1885: Inclosure with Tingle's annual report for 1885. Date. July 1884. Aug. -4 14 21 I Sept. 2 15 Nov. 3 5 I 12 26 1885. May 18 June 1 11 15 17 18 22 27 29 3 7 10 13 17 20 Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. CO ft pi Ph P P o . r~. CO © <B co be r< a East 19 North -48 East 64 North 60 do 60 do 515 do 482 do 503 Starry Ateel 27 North do Starry Ateel, North, and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel and North... East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North, and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North, and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North, and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North, and East Zapadnie 40 <e © 5 191 19 48 48 64 63 60 60 515.... 482.... 503 .... 27 27 40 39 Skins rejected. Sh © • •eg 515 482 503 Total 1,500 3181,818 196 1,502 © c« 43 OS Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. 43 ft © © 03 © rH .9 Ph © tH © . © rH © ©•l-S P P 601 60 2, 118 750 775 802 825 414 ,775 401 287 789 156 011 218 483 o EH 12014, 804 1, 2 2, ... 1. k 118 750 775 802! 825 414 775 401 ,287 789 158 011 222 483 Aggregate. 13 © 43 ft © © © CO P M m 19 48 63 u • rrt © 'sj © ^Q © 43 g 9^ 3-* c? H CQ u r-i CO -* s p c3 © 43 CO M ©-4H CO H ® 19 48 27 39 118 750 775 802 825 414 1,775 401 2,287 789 2,156 1,011 2,218 483 614, 810 15,000 1 60 60 515 482 503 64 60 60 515 482 503 27 40 118 750 775 802 825 414 1,775 401 2,287 789 2,158 1,011 4 2,222 .. 483 1,62816,628 182 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Consolidated annual report of fur seals killed at the Seal Islands of Alaska during the year ended July 27,1885: Inclosure with Tingle's annual report for 1885. When and where killed. Balance over shipment at village, August 1,1884 Balance, August 1, 1884. Pood at Northeast Point for watchman.. ST. PAUL ISLAND. August, 1884 September, 1884 October, 1884 November, 1884 December, 1884 May, 1885 June, 1885 July, 1885 Found in the salt counting out. Total ST. GEOBGE ISLAND. August, i884 September, 1884 November, 1884 May, 1885 June, 1885 July, 1885 Total • Total for both islands Killed for natives' food. J, 741 538 538 588 588 580' 580 335]3, 076 1, 004 1,004 322 2,7413,367 1,500 1,500 318 4,241 3,685 322 6,108 484 "*53 223 976 304 Skins rejected. Killed by the lessees for skins. 54 CQ Skins accepted. 25,976 32 56, 637 221 2,040 145 1,182 82, 702 253 131 130 120 27 39 1,527 40 1,818 77926 1,500 1 120 5,860.. 8,-944.. 1961,502 120 14,804 2, 2361,6471,302 97,506 253 Aggregate. ^•r4i 933 CO f*J 2, 40 I 49 54 484 388 327 53 3531 223 28 976 18 304 10 26, 008 32 56,8581 li 4,110 1,628 5,738 538 588 580 3,076 1,004 322 26, 018 56, 890 1 84,996 130 "*27 39 5,860 8,944 15,000 99, 996 89,106 131 120 1,527 40 5,860 8,950 16,628 105, 734 Pups belonging to natives 4,241 Rejected by Alaska Commercial Company 1,497 Total 5,738 Shipped per steamer St. Paul: St. Paul Island 84,996 St. George Island 15,000 Total 99,996 Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul and St. George Islands, Alaska. DR. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Aug. 1, 1884: To supply of eoal for native use as required by lease, 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Aug. 1, 1884: To supply of coal for native use as required by lease, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 183 CR. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Aug. 1, 1884: By supply of coal for native use as required by lease, 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite number. May 6, 1885: By maintenance of school, eight months. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Oct. 10, 1884: By supply of coal for native use as required by lease, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite number; maintenance of school, eight months. Special Agent Ryan; preliminary report, 1885. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, June 3, 1885. Sir : I have the honor to report that I arrived at this station on the 29th ultimo, finding Assistant Agents George Wardman and H. G. Fowler on duty. I at once took charge, and have till this date devoted my time during business hours to an examination into the condition and management of affairs. I take pleasure in stating that I find the interests of the Government carefully guarded and conducted on business principles, and, so far as I have been able to observe, without affording any grounds for the charges of frauds so freely made against the Alaska Commercial Company. While it is possible I may be forced to change my mind as to this, for the present I feel it to be my duty to report the situation of affairs as I now see them. Yery respectfully, yours, T. F. Eyan, Agent, Seal Islands. Hon. Daniel Manning, Secretary of the Treasury. Assistant Agent By an; annual report for 1885 for St. George Island. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, July 30, 1885. Sir : I herewith hand you statement of the season's seal killing on the island of St. George—15,000, the lawful quota for this year. I am pleased to be able to report that the season (excepting the poor protection from marauders) has passed off in a most satisfactory manner, as you will see in part from statement that the work of driving, killing, and skinning has been done with patience and care—but 2 under size, 19 perished, and none cut. There have been no complaints worthy of mention made by the Alaska Commercial Company or by the natives (one against the other), and your assistant, so far as the interests of the Government are concerned, has had no fault to find with either, for both have most willingly complied with every regulation controlling the seal interests and the welfare of the natives. From the 1st of July on we have had more or less annoyance from the presence of a schooner prowling around at a distance and at times coming near East and Zapadnie rookeries. We kept a watchman at East some of the time, and at Zapadnie all the time, night and day, but the final discovery of their deviltry was not made till July 20 (the 184 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. last day of sealing), when five Unalaska men on their way fco Zapadnie with a whaleboat to be left there for the use of the Government officer reported having seen men and boats on the beach under the high cliffs near Starry Ateel rookery. I immediately started for that point, sending the men who brought the boat back overland to the village for arms and word to Mr. Morgan of the company to meet me at the rookery, which he (though sick) promptly did, and after a consultation concluded to send to the village for colors and a boat, on the arrival of which I entered and went around and under the cliffs to the spot where the men had seen the marauders a few hours before. In the meantime Mr. Morgan and Dr. Lutz of the company had gone on reconnoitering, hoping to be able to flank and hold the rascals till I could reach them, but they found it impossible to get down or even see over the high cliffs, which are of a most rugged and ragged shape, and were forced to return to a point at the foot of the mountain touching the sea and about the commencing point of Starry Ateel rookery, and follow the rough, narrow beach. We met at the point indicated by the men, but found the marauders gone, leaving, however, evidence enough of their presence there in the shape of the skinned carcasses of from four to five hundred female seals. They hid the carcasses in caves and under rocks with much labor. We also found dead pups in every direction. We returned to the village very tired, for I had tramped over 10 miles (with poor legs) over moss-bed, trap holes, and rocks, and Mr. Morgan was not well (not being able to be on hand for the last day's sealing), so the next day we put in resting, feeling confident that the marauders would not dare to put in an appearance there again for at least a few days, for they knew that our men saw them. Early on the morning of the 22d I sent watchmen to every rookery that could be in any danger, and to Starry Ateel, the chief, with several men, with instructions to look over the ground and sight the best point for a rock house as a headquarters for watchmen in protecting that rookery. In an hour or so one of the men returned with the news that the marauders, with two boats, were on the'beach." We got there in "double quick." We sent five Unalaska men in charge of an experienced seaman by water, but the sea was too rough for his crew and forced him to return. When we got there, our game had again flown, leaving behind them 112 seal skins, all their seal clubs, one pair overalls, one woolen blouse, and one Chinese handkerchief. The skins I brought to the village and salted down in the company's salt house. But for the failure of our expedition by sea we should have captured the whole party. Starry Ateel rookery has always been considered as safe from marauders. The company people and natives seemed much surprised, but it is your assistants opinion that the rookery has been robbed for years. The marauders' manner of taking seals from this island has been to kill the seals and take them to their craft to be skinned, but in this case they became overconfident and bold and concluded it would be safe to start a killing and skinning ground within 500 feet of the rookery. In this they have blundered, for now that it is known it can and will be protected from work of this kind in the future. I have under way at all the rookeries, thought to be in any danger from marauders, stone and sod houses at locations that will aid cowardly watchmen in doing their duty. The second day after this the night watchman at Starry Ateel reported seeing a schooner about 3 o'clock a. m. far off to the westward; that she had sent up three signal rockets and shortly after disappeared. I immediately got four of the natives and two of the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 185 company men in a whaleboat and started for the west end of the island, a distance of over 8 miles, hoping, from the reported display of fireworks, to find marauders near there needing our attention. We found no signs of them until returning, when, in stopping at all suspicious- looking spots under the cliffs, we came on a very comfortable place for such people, about 1£ miles from the west end (which we named Pirate Harbor), where we found every evidence of their presence but a short time before, in the shape of fresh ashes, a hatchet, a silk handkerchief, seal clubs, and a broken oar. On returning to the village I got word from the Zapadnie watchman that a small boat burning a blue light had passed toward the west end about 1 o'clock that morning, which, no doubt, was looking for those at Pirate Harbor. During this time we have often wished for a revenue cutter to make her appearance, but, of course, they were "foolish wishes." "You will excuse the length of my report in regard to marauder hunting, but I have thought it my duty to inform you, as near as possible, as to the poor protection and the work required to protect the seal interests of this island. The killing of seals for food after the 20th of August, I suggest, should be prohibited. It looks to me as an unnecessary waste. I find that out of 449 seals killed in the latter part of August and in the month of September, in the years 1882,1883, and 1884,352 were rejected as stagy skins, to be cut up and destroyed. It will be no hardship for the natives to save sufficient food out of a killing along in the middle of August to supply their wants till the pup-killing season, about the last of October. About the first thing that impressed itself on my mind shortly after coming here was that the natives were not only treated well, but in a measure spoiled; the foundation of which is, in my judgment, the system that allows twelve months' pay for less than two months' work. There is no objection to the sum they receive, but for that sum they should be made to render, like other laboring people, a year's service; and to discourage idleness, and to encourage self-reliance and daily thrift,-they should be hired by the month and paid by the month, with a contract for a year's employment during good behavior, under a system that would give them in the year the same amount of money they get now. Under the present system it is next to impossible to induce them to do anything (outside of sealing and a little rookery watching) in the way of making themselves more comfortable. If they were likely to be called out to do a day's work now and then, at any time during the year, many improvements to their advantage would be made that under the present system of work and pay will never be made. Since the close of the sealing season the rookeries show that from 4.000 to 5,000 more seals could have been taken this season without injury to future supply. The Alaska Commercial Company have complied with all the requirements of lease, up to this date, for the year 1885. All of which is respectfully submitted. T. F. Eyan, Agent. P. S.—I wish to add that Captain Healy, of the Gorwin, informed me that he had written the Department over a year ago requesting that he should be permitted to leave a lieutenant and two men on this island, but that his request had not been even replied to. T. F. E. Hon. G. E. Tingle, Special Treasury Agent of Seal Islands. 186 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Tingle; supplementary report for 1885. St. Paul Island, Alaska, September 25,1885. Sir : Since my last report nothing of unusual interest has transpired on the Seal Islands. One marauding schooner only put in an appearance off the rookeries at Northeast Point since the steamer left. I was promptly on hand, prepared to resist her landing. Seeing she was discovered, they put to sea and have not yet returned. The revenue cutter Corwin arrived here on the 11th instant from the Arctic, and has been cruising around the islands, making a trip as far as Unalaska, returning to this island at 1 p. m., 23d instant. Captain Healy reported to me, "No marauders in sight." I have visited all the rookeries on the island this month, in company with the Alaska Commercial Company's agent, and find them in good condition. It is the opinion of the agent of the company and natives that there was never as many seals on the island any former year as this. I should say 3,000,000 pups would be a low estimate this year, based on the Elliott plan of computation. I inclose Mr. Chas. H. Townsend's receipt in duplicate for fur-seal specimens for the Smithsonian Institution, as per your letter May 1, 1885. I am, very respectfully, Geo. E. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Personal.—I think it best I should see you in person next fall or winter and place you in possession of all the points experience has disclosed to me, before the time for making a new contract arrives, with a view of securing to the Government the full benefit of this valuable reservation, without leaving a chance for wastage. Eespectfully, Geo. E. Tingle. Hon. C. S. Fairchild, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury. 1886. Special Agent Tingle; annual report for 1886. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, AlasTca, July 31,1886. Sir: I herewith transmit my report of the operations of the Seal Islands for the past year, and up to the close of this sealing season. I also inclose statement of daily killing of fur seals marked "A," and consolidated statement marked "B," also steamer St. PauVs receipt for 99,980 seal skins shipped marked "O," a duplicate of which receipt is on file in this office, one sent to the collector of customs, San Francisco, and one left with the captain of the steamer St. Paul. The work of sealing was satisfactorily performed by the natives; in fact a decided improvement has been made in their killing and skinning over former years. A comparison of the daily statements for past years will show a large saving of u rejected " (small, cut, and stagey) skins. The saving made in slaughtering seals last fall during the stagey season, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 187 for native food, was accomplished without any injury whatever to the natives, as all had an abundance of meat. The reduced number of rejected skins this year is the result of constant watchfulness and peremptory orders of your agents that seals should not be killed below the size, as was claimed heretofore could not be avoided. Experience, however, has taught us that, with the exercise of a little patience and care when clubbing a pod of seals, but few mistakes need be made. The number of seals perished on the drives this season did not exceed 100, which, considering the vast numbers driven, is insignificant. The skins of all killables perishing were taken and salted, which leaves the actual loss from all causes not exceeding 50, exclusive of the rejected, as shown in Statement A, or less than one-tenth the number last year. The drives and general conduct of the business was satisfactory this year. The natives show a marked improvement in their promptness to obey all orders, and excel in their work; they readily acknowledge the authority of the Government officer and never show any dissatisfaction with his decisions when brought before him for any offense committed. Five persons only were summoned before the Treasury agent on this island during the past year who on examination were proven guilty of the charges preferred, and fines aggregating $65 imposed on them for offenses, as shown in the statement of the general fund account marked aD," herewith inclosed. Transportation from the islands and fines are the only modes of punishment at hand. I am happy to say no offense worthy of the former has been committed. A small lock up .or jail on each island would have a very salutary effect on the people, and in my opinion would do much more than fines to accomplish reform. The buildings could be provided at a cost of not more than $100 each, and while they might not be occupied by three persons in a year their existence would be a constant reminder of the strong arm of the law. The sanitary condition of the two islands is very good and the health of the natives for the past year has been about as usual. They are not generally robust or long lived and in almost every case adults die with consumption, the result of imprudence. For the past fifteen months there has not been a single case of sickness among the white persons on either island; in fact all are in robust health. The census taken on the 1st of January, 1886, was as follows: Island. St. Paul... St. George. .2 I Males Females. 1 © 1 05 oo 3 to M . t> oo p-2 oo a 03 © a 55 j CO <D t* _c3 'u w 1 oo rP g | 00 r-H P From 5 to 17 years. n 1 1 ®c3 fp ID P^ 1 i—( P -P 1 rH o . -P 00 s 1 u 1 in F-c co rrt 4> p* p 73 27 58 30 27 16 15 5 76 37 47 23 m 14 1 237 112 37 10 5 14 7 +3 C5 14 4 The ice closed in around St. Paul Island on the 6th of February and finally disappeared on the 1st day of May. The coldest day of the winter was 5° below zero and the warmest this summer so far was 54° above. We had a godsend on the 23d of January, when the cutter Bush came to anchor and landed all our mail up to the date of her departure from San Francisco, January 2, being the first instance on record of a vessel reaching this island at that season of the year. The natives not wishing to use any bull-seal skins for clothing or 188 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. boats this year, and there being no authority of law for killing the surplus old bulls spoken of in my report of last year, none were killed, and with an additional year's experience I would not now recommend their being killed, as by proper care they are handled in the drives without detriment to the younger seals and in the water may be some protection to the young seals against their natural enemies. THE BREEDING ROOKERIES. Mr. Elliott embraced in his report of 1874 a measurement by him of the breeding rookeries on this island, made July 10 to 18,1872, since which time no measurement has been made so far as the records of this office show. Deeming it of great importance that the Department should be in possession of the best information as to the present condition of the rookeries, I made a thorough measurement of all on this island, commencing on May 3, before the bulls hauled up on the land, when an absolutely correct measurement could be made. In making my measurements I was assisted by Dr. L. A. Koyes (Captain Loud, assistant Treasury agent, not having returned to the island) and four of the best informed natives as to the boundaries of the breeding rookeries. In July, when the rookeries were fullest, we verified our work by observations and found the ground included within our lines fully covered. Some of the rookeries, viz, Northeast Point, Tolstoi, Gorbotch, and Polavina, were densely packed, covering more area than my statement shows, while others were not so closely packed. I do not agree with Mr. Elliott in his assignment of 2 feet square to each seal; at this date it is not enough. I inclose my statement, marked E, as compared with Mr. Elliott's, which on his basis gives us now on the breeding rookeries 5,148,500 seals, an increase since 1872 of 2,137,550. I think the calculation of* 1872, as well as that of 1886, would stand a reduction of one-fourth in aggregate number of seals and be nearer the true number than our figures show. Statements at best are merely approximate estimates, but in the absence of any absolutely correct method of arriving at the count they serve as a guide. Frequent inspection of the rookeries during last season and this shows a decided increase of cows, with an ample supply of bulls. The same report is also made by the assistant Treasury agent in charge of St. George, on which island I was not able to obtain measurements of the rookeries this spring, but will do so next and forward the result with my next report. So far this season we have sighted but one schooner off this island supposed to be sealing. She did not, however, come in close enough to disclose her real character. At St. George an attempt was made by marauders to land for the purpose of killing seals on a rookery, but were driven off by shots fired at them by order of the officer in charge, as directed by me. At 1.30 p. m., June 29, the revenue cutter Corwin landed here. Captain Abbey reported having boarded the schooners Yanderbilt, Captain Myers; Sierra, Captain Lee, and City of San Diego, the first two about 20 miles from Unalaska and the last 40 miles from St. George Island. He took from the Sierra 4 rifles and 1,110 rounds of fixed ammunition, and from the City of San Diego 6 rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition. The last-named vessels had seal skins aboard (salted) and plenty of salt and seal clubs, showing clearly they intended, if opportunity offered, to land on the rookeries. Captain Abbey notified the captains of the trading schooners that if again caught in the waters ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 189 with additional seal skins on board he would seize the vessels and cargoes. On his arrival here, 26th instant, he reported having seized the schooner San Diego, not far from Unalaska, sealing, having some fresh- skinned seal skins on board and 574 in salt, 175 of which had been clubbed. Among the skins were some small pups, this year's, showing conclusively the marauder had landed on a rookery on St. George, as the pups have not yet gone in the water. The San Diego is an old offender and was captured once on Otter Island, sealing. Captain Abbey proposes to hand her over to the civil authorities. She is at present in custody of the deputy marshal at Unalaska. This commencement of captures will do much toward breaking up the marauding business about the islands this season; indeed, the Corwinh presence here has undoubtedly kept off quite a fleet of schooners and destroyed their unlawful business hereabouts. With the cutter Bear to remain until fall, after coming out of the Arctic, seal life will be protected from pirates this season. It is the only means by which good can be accomplished in that direction. I do earnestly hope the Department will see the necessity of keeping a cutter around the fur-seal islands every season from the 1st of June to the 1st of November. Mr. J. P. Manchester, assistant Treasury agent, reported to me in person at this island on June 12, and was assigned to duty on St. George Island, as per your instructions. Mr. Manchester informed me he was appointed with the understanding that he could return to his home at the end of this sealing season. Your letter of April 30, " J. G. M.," says: "Mr. Manchester, owing to the hurried manner in which he leaves for his post, is very anxious to return home at the end of this summer's sealing season, and if you can arrange so that he can be absent during the ensuing winter the Department will not object to your so doing." Mr. T. F. Eyan, assistant agent in charge of St. George, and myself are granted leave of absence " provided a Treasury agent is left at each island during the absence of Mr. Eyan and myself" (J. G. M., A. F., 228-231, T, September 25, 1885). Mr. Eyan insists on availing himself of his privilege, and Mr. Manchester can not remain on the island this winter. The Alaska Commercial Company's agent is not satisfied to be left on the island during the winter without a Treasury agent. In the dilemma and without any authority of law, but relying on the authority contained in your letter of April 30, quoted above, I appointed Dr. L. A. Noyes, a Democrat in politics, acting assistant Treasury agent, subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury, and placed him in charge of St. George Island. A copy of my letter of appointment and instructions is herewith inclosed, marked "E." Dr. Noyes is the Alaska Commercial Company's physician on this island, and was an applicant for the vacant assistant Treasury agency at the time Mr. Manchester was appointed. His application, he informs me, was indorsed by, among others, Hon. B. B. Smalley and Hon. Hiram Atkins, of Vermont. I regard it as a fortunate circumstance that a proper and available man was here whom I could secure to go to St. George and assume the duties of the office, as it will not do to leave the islands without someone whom the natives are accustomed to call "the Government." I therefore hope my action in the premises will be approved and that some authority of law will be found to pay Dr. Noyes for his services until he is relieved from duty by the return of the absent Treasury agents or the order of the Secretary of the Treasury. « 190 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Mr. Manchester goes down on the strength of his understanding when appointed, and without my permission, as I do not understand I am authorized to grant leaves of absence, but I hope you will appreciate his situation and mine, and give him full benefit, as he is a most agreeable gentleman and good officer. * I leave the island of St. Paul with Capt. A. P. Loud, assistant Treasury agent, in charge, feeling that everything will go on smoothly under his efficient and careful management, and take passage on the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul for San Francisco, from which place I will report by telegraph for further orders. I administered the customary oath of office to Dr. Ebyes. 1 am, very respectfully, Geo. E. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Hon. C. S. Falrchild, Acting Secretary of the Treasury. Inolosure with Tingle?s annual report for 1886; shipping receipts. Island of St. George, July 81,1886. This is to certify that 14,990 far-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul. M. V. Erskine. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, August 8,1886. This is to certify that 84,990 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul. M. V. Erskine, Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 191 29 S? H-» CO1 S © rr*» © S9 "to co «S <o ©> Si <s © © ^ OS si r*» ^1 Aggregates. 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The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. Dr. 7 August 1,1885. To supply of coal for native use, as required by lease, 40 tons; of fish 60 barrels; of salt, requisite quantity; of barrels, requisite quantity; maintenance of school, eight months. Cr. August 1, 1885. By coal for native use, 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, all they wished; barrels, all they wished. May 13, 1886. Maintenance of school, eight months. Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. George Island. Dr. July 31, 1886. To supply of coal for native use, 20 tons; of fish, 20 barrels; of salt, requisite quantity; of barrels, requisite quantity; maintenance of school, eight months. Cr. June 11, 1886. By coal for native use, 20 tons. July 14, 1886. By fish, 20 barrels. July 31, 1886. By salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite quantity. April 21, 1886. Maintenance of schools, eight months. Memorandum. Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. George Island—"general fund:" July, 31, 1886. To balance, being fines to date 1 $90.62 St. Paul Island, Alaska, May 8,1886. Received of George R. Tingle, Treasury agent, St. Paul Island, the sum of $6 each for services rendered in assisting the Treasury agent to measure all the breeding rookeries on St. Paul. Yevlampee Viatkin. Karp Butrin. Anton Melovedoef. Tarenti Stchepenin. Attest: N. Gray. Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. Paul Island, Alaska—u oil fund." 1885. June 2. To balance $188.02 1886. Cr. May 8. By Yevlampee Viatkin $6.00 By Terrenti Stchepnin 6.00 By Anton Melovedoff 6.00 By Karp Buterin 6.00 24.00 Total 164.02 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 197 Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. Paul Island, Alaska—"general fund." 1885. July 12. To balance $56.70 Sept. 16. Anton Melovedoff fined for breaking in the company's storeroom and stealing and drinking alcohol belonging to Charles H. Town- send, naturalist, and becoming stupidly drunk 20.00 Sept. 16. Jacob Kechuteu, for same offense 20.00 Oct. 31. Timofoy Serebnikoff, for entering native house when locked and family absent and stealing coat 5. 00 1886. Apr. 15. Arcena Arkeshoff (married), assaulting a young girl with immoral intentions 10.00 May 1. Martin Popoff on complaint of Metropon Schuytehogin, for habitual disturbance of his domestic relations and enticing his wife from him for immoral purposes 10.00 Total 121.70 Cr. May 28. By amount paid natives for cleaning streets 11.00 Balance 110.70 Measurements of breeding rookeries, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Name of rookery. Reef Garbotch Zoltoi Keetavia Lukannon Tolstoi Lagoon Northeast Point. Polivena North Zapadnie . West Zapadnie .. Sea Lion Rock... Total Increase in 14 years By H. W. Elliott, assistant Treasury agent, July 10 to 18, 1872. Sea margin. Width. Feet. 4,016 3,660 Feet. 150 100 2,200 2,270 3,000 750 15, 840 4,000 5,880 150 150 150 100 150 150 150 41,616 Total area, Feet. 602,400 366, 000 330,000 340, 500 450, 000 75, 000 2,376,000 600,000 882, 000 6,021,900 Total seals, allowing 2 feet/square to each female seal. 301, 200 183, 000 165, 000 170, 250 225, 000 37, 500 , 188, 000 300,000 441, 000 3,010, 950 By Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury agent, May 3 to 8, 1886. Sea margin, Feet. 5,550 2,750 700 2,700 1,600 3,100 1,625 14, 825 6,600 5,500 3,800 1,100 49,850 8,234 Width. Feet. 175 275 30 140 175 250 75 205 175 100 550 145 Total area. Feet. 971,250 756, 250 21, 000 378, 000 280, 000 775, 000 121, 875 3, 039,125 1, 155, 000 550, 000 2, 090, 000 159,500 10,297,000 4, 275,100 Total seals on Elliott's basis. 485,625 378,125 10,500 189, 000 140, 000 387, 500 60, 937 1,519, 563 577, 500 275, 000 1, 045, 000 79,750 5,148, 500 2,137,550 Zapadnie is divided by a sand beach over 700 feet wide at the southwest bay landing. In order to show the shape of the rookery better I call that portion north of the sand beach North Zapadnie and the other side West Zapadnie. Mr. Elliott treats it as one rookery. He also leaves out Sea Lion Rock, which is an old rookery. Zoltoi is newsince his date. I think the space assigned to each seal by Mr. Elliot is not large enough, and a reduction of one-fourth from the figures above would give more nearly correct the actual number of seals on the rookeries named. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, Alaska. 198 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 1887. Special Agent Tingle; annual report for 1887. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, July 31,1887. Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith my report for the year ending July 31,1887, with the steamers' receipts for 100,000 seal skins shipped. Statement A,1 inclosed, shows the daily killing of seals for food and by the lessees; Statement B,1 the killing on both islands consolidated. It is very gratifying to be able to report almost no loss from seals perishing on the drives. Men are sent to follow up the seals and skin such as perish and bring the skins to the salt houses. The loss in clubbing is also insignificant. This result is owing to greater care being exercised by the natives and lessees' men in handling the immense droves of seals, and the saving in clubbing small seals, which appear as rejected in the statement, is mainly owing to the presence on the field of the Treasury agent and the personal superintendence and strict orders of the lessees' general agent, who requires of his men the greatest care in killing, so that none but acceptable seal skins are taken. Indeed, the unnecessary slaughter of seals whose skins are not merchantable is a thing of the past, as a comparison of this season's statement with former years will show. The ice hung around St. Paul Island until the 13th of May, the weather being very cold, which no doubt was the cause of the light supply of killable seals the early part of June. By the 20th of the month they landed in as great numbers as usual, and more than could be handled each day by the depleted force of natives entitled to participate in the work of skinning or sealing. No difficulty was experienced by the lessees in securing their quota of fine skins in thirty-nine working days, an average of 2,564 per day. The time has come when, in my judgment, the lessees should be authorized by the Secretary of the Treasury to employ additional natives, and teach them the business of sealing in all its branches, as death has played sad havoc with the sealers of the islands, as shown by a statement I herewith inclose, marked C,1 compiled from the records by the Alaska Commercial Company's general agent, Dr. H. H. Mclntyre. From this list you will see the mortality among the men since 1870 has been fearful, andthesmall- ness of the effective force of able men and boys in 1887 to do the work of taking 85,000 seal skins on St. Paul Island during the time allowed by law is insufficient. Were it not for the fact that one-half the work pertaining to the taking, salting, bundling, etc., of the skins is done by Unalaska natives, brought up by the lessees for the sealing season and returned to their homes at the close of the season's business, and eight white men, employees of the lessees, the work would not be done on St. Paul Island without continuing the killing in the fall. About forty natives of Unalaska, the same tribe of people who inhabit the fur-seal islands, are brought annually to the islands, and paid by the lessees for salting, booking, bundling, etc., in order to advance the work, the island natives receiving the full sum of 40 cents per skin. It would be entirely just to take this extra expense from the sum total of the native 1 Missing. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 199 fund, and distribute the remainder to the sealers, as the work performed by the extra help is a part of the duty imposed on the island natives, under the contract and in consideration of the 40 cents per skin paid them. Experience has demonstrated that the system of payment to the natives is not the best for their own interests, for the reason that when the season's sealing ends, and they each get their proportion of the community fund entered up to their credit in their pass books, they feel the year's work is ended. If called upon to work on a road over which they travel and wheel their water, meat, and fuel, or asked to launch a boat to board the vessel in the spring, they are paid by the hour, or when called out by the Treasury agent in the spring to clean up the filth they have accumulated during the winter around their houses, they are paid for their labor. They earn their year's salary, or pay, in six weeks, and for the remainder of the year feel they are free. If called on to do any work, even though it may be as much for the benefit of the natives as the lessees, they must be paid by the hour for it. The system of payment by the piece, or skin, was adopted immediately after the transfer of the country as an inducement for the natives to secure the skins, rival companies occupying the islands sealing at the time. In my opinion, it is not the best way to compensate the island natives, and is very unjust to their brothers who are brought from Unalaska to help them. The average pay of the St. Paul native sealer this year is a little over $500, whilst the Unalaskans receive on an average $80 each. This small sum is the main support of their families for the year, while the St. Paul man has. besides his $500 cash, all the fresh seal meat he can eat, and salt, fuel, fish, house, medicines, physician, and schooling free. It would be a simple act of justice, to place the natives of Unalaska, employed to assist in sealing, on the same footing with the St. Paul natives in the distribution of the sum earned, as one set of men is just as essential to the work as the other. I would suggest, as a much better plan, the payment of a sum equal to 40 cents per skin, divided into annual salaries in proportion to the value of each man and boy's labor, payable weekly or monthly, with the understanding that in consideration of this salary their time and labor was subject to the orders of the lessees and Treasury agents at any and all times. For nine months or more every year the lessees have nothing for them to do, and the system of payment as suggested, I am sure, would prove more beneficial to the natives and make no difference whatever to the lessees, excepting it would subject the natives to their orders at all times for any work necessary to be done. I would respectfully recommend that any additional force of natives you may see proper to authorize to assist in sealing be paid by the year and not by the skin, and such sum so paid be deducted from the community fund of 40 cents per skin before the division is made and the remainder divided as heretofore among the old sealers, provided that none of the lessees' agents or white employees are paid out of the native funds. It is evident the rapid decrease of native adult males on the islands will necessitate an increase in the outside force of natives or the quota of 100,000 skins per annum can not be taken. The Unalaskan is paid by the lessees for doing the work which under their contract the islanders are bound to do, and while the wages paid them by the Alaska Commercial Company ($40 per month) is very good, the time employed (two months) is very short, lasting only through -the killing season. In view of the facts stated, it would seem but just that some more equitable division of the funds be made among those natives who do the work, as they are all of one tribe, the 200 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. fur-seal islands having been first peopled a hundred years ago by transplanting Aleuts from Unalaska. The condition of the natives on the two islands is quite as good as usual after a long winter of idleness, during which time they shut themselves up in their close houses without permitting any ventilation whatever, keeping the house warmed up to an unhealthy temperature, taking only such outdoor exercise as is required of them in attendance on their church service, emerging in the spring in time to clean up and prepare for the arrival of the vessel. When it is damp and cold, they are as imprudent and careless as during the winter, consequently take cold easily, resulting in many cases fatally. Bronchitis and pneumonia are the spring diseases. This year has been an unusually fatal one, there having been seventeen deaths in June and up to 12th of July. When once an Aleut makes up his mind to die, having no recuperative powers, he baffles the skill of the physician and calmly awaits the inevitable. With proper care they would be much longer lived, as there is nothing in the climate or sanitary condition of the islands to invite disease. The white population on both islands, some of whom have remained continuously for five years, are always remarkably healthy. It is a notable fact that not a single death from disease has occurred among them since the transfer of Alaska to the United States. While the percentage of mortality among the natives is much greater than can be found in any State or country of which we have statistics, it is only a question of time when the Aleuts will become extinct. The census taken January 1,1887, shows as follows: CO 1 a ft Males. Females. r—* & +3 o B .973 00 S a 05 P 05 S> <D ft O GO I* O Marriages. GO rP to t-i W Island. 05 o . += 05 co © ^ (H t~ ft^ ift fH GO PI >> 1 05 i—l < o . ■t3 05 '° <S 5 ^ u t- ft-1 in U GO <D tH 1 05 m <D St. Paula 67 28 58 29 24 12 17 76 40 42 15 20 9 237 112 39 16 11 7 5 3 14 4 14 St. George b 5 a Seventeen deaths from June 1 to July 12, including five sealers; almost 7 per cent in forty-two days. 6 One death since June 1. The cause of the excess of females on the islands is owing to a regulation of the Greek Church, which forbids the marriage of parties where the most distant relationship exists. It even extends to the relatives of the contracting parties, godmother and godfather. This absurd obstacle makes it almost out of the question for residents of the island to marry. The priest controls all marriages. His permission is absolutely required before a marriage can take place. This rule of the church forces the men to go to Unalaska or other islands for wives, and every year pilgrimages are made for that purpose. The priest first being applied to, tells the wife-seeker whom he may marry. While accessions of females are made to the population in this way, no adult males are allowed to come from other islands and become citizens of the fur-seal islands without special permission of the Secretary of the Treasury. The usual eight months' school was conducted on both islands with about the usual results. Twenty-five children attended on St. George and 55 on St. Paul. The native children are stupidly dull and not encouraged by their parents to learn English. They would not send a ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 201 child to school if not compelled by the Treasury agent to do so. The teachers on both islands do their duty faithfully, but their work is not appreciated or rewarded with very brilliant results. THE BREEDING ROOKERIES. As I was unable to accompany my report of last year with a statement showing the number of seal on the breeding rookeries of St. George Island, I made arrangements with Acting Assistant Treasury Agent Dr. L. A. JSToyes in charge, to make a complete measurement of all the rookeries on the island, which he did, and the result is here given: [January 4, March 1, and April 22,1887.] East Zapadnie Little East Starry Ateel Near and North. Total Name of rookery. Sea margin. 2,200 2,100 600 900 3,500 9,300 Depth. 200 160 125 575 300 Square feet. 440, 000 336, 000 75, 000 517, 500 1,050,000 2,418, 500 Seals. 220,000 168,000 37, 500 258, 750 525, 000 1,209,250 RECAPITULATION (SEVENTEEN ROOKERIES). St. Paul Island, 1886 5,148,500 St. George Island, 1887 1,209,250 Grand total of breeding seals only 6,357,750 I think that a deduction of one-fourth from the above would show more nearly correct the true number of seals on the islands. In my judgment Mr. Elliott does not allow them space enough. The breeding grounds on St. George Island, surveyed July 12-15, 1873, gave the following figures: [H. W. Elliott's Condition of Affairs in Alaska, 1874, p. 78.] Name of rookery. Eastern Little East.. North Near Starry Ateel Zapadnie ... Total. Sea margin. 900 750 2,000 750 500 600 Depth. 5,500 60 40 25 150 125 60 Square feet. 54, 000 30, 000 50, 000 112, 500 62, 500 36, 000 345,000 Seals. 27, 000 15,000 25, 000 56, 250 31, 250 18, 000 172,500 The information furnished by the estimates of seal life is very valuable, though, of course, not absolutely correct. The measurement on St. George Island is undoubtedly as near correct as it is possible to make it, and differing so widely from the estimate made by Mr. H. W. Elliott July 12-15,1873,1 am forced to conclude that that gentleman, so uniformly correct in his voluminous and interesting history of the fur seal and his home, has made a great mistake somehow in his work of measuring the rookeries at that time. It is quite evident such is the case, as the number of seals he makes on the breeding rookeries, viz, 172,500, is out of all proportion to the number of males killed in 1872-73, being 25,000 each year, while on St. Paul Island, with 3,030,250 seals on the rookeries, only 75,000 males were 202 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. taken each year, or three times as many as were taken on St. George, while St. Paul, according to Mr. Elliott, had eighteen times as many seals on the rookeries. For 1879, 1880, and 1881,20,000 were taken annually on St. George. Since that time the lessees have not been able to take conveniently more than 15,000 annually, notwithstanding the rookeries have received large accessions of cows and bulls each year since 1873 and now have seven times the number estimated by Mr. Elliott to have been there when they took 25,000 seals. • The number of seals at present shown to be on the breeding rookeries of the two islands is as follows: St. Paul 5,148,500 St. George 1,209,250 Total , 6,357,750 The young male seals haul out separately from breeders, and no estimate of their number has ever been made or attempted, so far as I know. It is certain one-half the pups born are males and that pups equal to 90.per cent of cows on the rookeries go into the water—that is, exclusive of the young cows which come upon the rookeries for the first time to meet the males. The estimated loss of 10 per cent is caused by bulls in preserving rigid discipline and administering necessary correction in the management of their domestic affairs. 1 heir idea of a female's duty does not admit of any little indiscretions, and at the slightest sign of deviation, regardless of consequences, he quickly pounces upon the offending female and shakes her by the neck. A number of pups are also lost by being washed off the rocks by the surf and drowned before they have learned to swim. Fully one half the pups which go to sea in the fall return as yearlings the following spring, the absent ones having furnished food for their natural enemies in the water. As they grow older the percentage of loss from this cause decreases largely. I have made frequent and close inspections of the rookeries this year and find the lines of occupancy extended beyond those of last year and the cows quite as densely packed on the ground on most of the rookeries, while on two rookeries there is some falling off. It is certain, however, this vast number of animals, so valuable to the Government, is still on the increase. The condition of all the rookeries could not be better, and the seals, undisturbed when ashore, seem to take great comfort out of their season of rest after a long winter voyage at sea. The Department can not place too high an estimate on the value of this seal property, and the Government, I am sure, will not yield to any demands which would make it possible to accomplish the destruction of her seal rookeries and seal life, which, under judicious management and protected by law, may be perpetuated indefinitely. THE MARAUDERS. Last fall, after the steamer had departed for San Francisco, a number of marauding schooners were sighted from St. Paul Island. One, a steam schooner, laid off the Reef Rookery several days from the 8th of August, with boats down, killing seals in the water. Owing to the distance from land (though in full view) and the uncertainty of the weather it was not deemed safe by Captain Loud, assistant Treasury agent in charge, to go out to her in small boats. She was rewarded by securing a cargo of 4,300 seal skins for her British owners, which were delivered and sold in Victoria. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 203 Had Captain Abbey, with the revenue cutter Cor win, cruised around the seal islands until the 15th of August he no doubt would have captured several valuable prizes which escaped with large catches of seal owing to the absence of the cutter. On St. George Island, in charge of acting assistant Treasury agent Dr. L. A. IsToyes, soon after the departure of the cutter a schooner was sighted. She sent her men in small boats direct to a rookery to kill seals. Under orders from Dr. Noyes, the natives watching the rookery fired on the men as they landed, causing them to retreat to their boats and pull for their vessel. Two of the men were wounded, according to their own admission, one shot through the arm and the other in the foot. This warm reception and impressive lesson was not without beneficial results, as it became generally known last fall and winter among the profession, and may serve to keep them a safe distance from the shore line of the rookeries this season. I understand the captains of British vessels had great difficulty this spring shipping their crews of Indian sealers, owing to the few captures of last year. After their experience of this season, I am quite sure British Columbia Indians will be hard to secure for Bering Sea sealing in the future. So far this season four schooners have been operating around this island, at times within a mile or two of the land, their rifle shots being distinctly heard from the shore, a dense fog concealing the vessel from view. One schooner remained around Northeast Point from the 15th to the 26th, then came down near the village. On the 28th instant, at 3 p. m., I sighted her near Otter Island, close to the land. The Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul having arrived early the same morning, I, in company with their general agent, Mclntyre, their physician, Dr. W. S. Hereford, and Captain Loud, assistant Treasury agent, boarded the steamer St. Paul. At my earnest request her captain, M. C. Erskin, got under way and followed the schooner, which was then standing away from us. She changed her course suddenly and stood directly for the steamer. When near enough to see with the glass, we discovered she was in distress—flying the American flag, union down. When we come up to her she proved to be the schooner Angel Dolly, of San Francisco. I hailed her from the bridge of the steamer, and was answered by the men on the schooner with calls for help, saying the captain was shot and dying and one man wounded. I directed Capt. A. P. Loud, assistant Treasury agent and an experienced navigator, to board the schooner in the boat towing astern of the steamer, with the native crew, which he did, Dr. H. H. Mclntyre and Dr. Hereford accompanying him. A high cross sea with strong northwest wind made it dangerous to get to the vessel, which was at the mercy of the elements. All got safely on board and Captain Loud took command of the schooner and brought her to a smooth anchorage east side of St. Paul Island, where I boarded her a few minutes after she anchored. Captain Loud was in charge, with the revenue flag flying, he having seized the schooner and cargo for violation of section 1956, Revised Statutes. The captured schooner's captain, Alfred N. Tulles, with three of his men, had been on Otter Island, 5 miles from St. Paul Island, during the afternoon and killed four fur seals on the land. Returning to his vessel, he picked up a rifle on the house of his cabin and drew it toward him, when the hammer of the gun caught, discharging the contents through the body of the captain, killing him and wounding Joseph Spooner, one of the crew, who was at the wheel, behind the captain, 204 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. the crew all agreeing in their statements to me that the firing of the gun in the hands of the captain was an accident. I had the body of Captain Tulles moved on shore, the Alaska Commercial Company's physician taking charge. The funeral took place the following day, Rev. Father Weschtomoff officiating. Joseph Spooner, the wounded man, was taken on the island and made comfortable in one of the company's houses, with one of his shipmates to attend him, and is doing well. I sent the schooner to Unalaska in command of Capt. Paul Porloff at an expense of $25, which sum the agent of the Alaska Commercial Company paid him on my order, the captured crew remaining on the schooner to Unalaska, where they are to be taken on board the steamer St. Paul for San Francisco, at my request. The schooner Angel Dolly had on board 178 fur seal skins, 125 of them cow seals. At Unalaska I turned over the schooner, cargo, and papers to Capt. L. D. Sheppard, of the United States revenue cutter Bush; also furnished him with depositions of Capt. A. P. Loud, seizing officer for the Government, and the crew of the seized schooner, together with a full statement of the case by me, directed to the United States district attorney at Sitka, which will obviate the necessity of our going to Sitka. This makes the seventh capture so far this season, the cutter Rush having taken six and sent them to Sitka for trial, their cargo of seal skins stored here number 2,532, as follows: American schooner Challenge, with 151 skins; British schooner Anna Beck, with 336; British schooner W. P. Sawyer, with 479; British schooner Dolphin, with 600; British schooner Grace, with 769; American schooner Lottie L., with 197; a total of 2,532. The Department's attention is respectfully called to the operations of the cutter Rush, Capt. L. D. Sheppard, sent to protect the seal islands and seal life this season. He has been indefatigable in his efforts, aud will no doubt add at least six more to the list of his captures before he leaves the waters, as there are at this time double that number of schooners around the islands. The British schooner Dolphin had on board a very large lot of fine rifles and a ton of fixed ammunition. Her commander, I. D. Warren, had five vessels sealing; four of them are among the captured. He is one of the defiant Britishers who has no regard for the laws of the United States Government. While the Rush was busy taking care of the marauders around St. George, three schooners were killing seals near St. Paul, frequently in sight but beyond the reach of'the Treasury agent, as we have no facilities for going out to sea, so far, to board vessels. What we should have on St. Paul Island is a 20-ton steam yacht to draw not over 5 feet of water, provided with one small rifled gun. Such a steamer we could run up in the lagoon at the village for good harbor, where she would be perfectly safe against all kinds of weather. There is always an engineer on the island competent to run a small steamer and natives for crew always at hand, willing to serve the Treasury agent when called on. In this way it would not cost the Government a dollar to run the yacht. She could cruise all around the island, doing the work of a cutter without any expense for crew. It is impossible for one cutter to guard the two islands successfully—as, for example, the Rush left this island the night of 15th instant and had not returned when we left, on August 3 at 8 p. m. She had all she could do around St. George and to the eastward. During her absence three schooners operating at St. Paul must have secured large catches of seals. For the next month I have no doubt the marauders will concentrate near the islands. If the condition of the cutter Bear on her return from the Arctic will ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 205 admit of it, Captain Healey will remain at the islands until the sea is cleared of the sealing vessels. The Bear was leaking badly when I boarded her at St. Paul, on her way north, and indeed the captain thought he would have to return from St. Michaels and proceed direct to San Francisco. If such should prove to be the case, Captain Sheppard will have more than he can do during the month of August. I desire to say in behalf of a faithful officer that Captain Sheppard has displayed commendable zeal in the execution of his orders, and will make a record of seizures this season which will demoralize the marauding business. DESTRUCTION OF SEALS. I am now convinced from what I gather in questioning the men belonging to captured schooners, and from reading the logs of the vessels, that not more than one seal in ten killed and mortally wounded is loaded on the boats and skinned. Thus you will see the wanton destruction of seal life without any benefit whatever. I think 30,000 skins taken this year by the marauders is a low estimate on this basis— 300,000 fur seals were killed to secure that number, or three times as many as the Alaska Commercial Company are allowed by law to kill. You can readily see that this great slaughter of seals will in a few years make it impossible for 100,000 skins to be taken on the islands by the lessees. I earnestly hope more vigorous measures will be adopted by the Government in dealing with these destructive law breakers. Dr. L. A. Noyes, left last fall as acting assistant Treasury agent on St. George Island in place of J. P. Manchester, who returned on account of sickness in his family, performed the duties of the office faithfully until relieved, May 30,1887, by the return of Mr. Manchester. Dr. Ebyes should be paid for the time he served the Government. If there is no fund out of which he can be compensated, I respectfully ask you to recommend the passage of a bill for his relief, or include it in the sundry civil bill, in accordance with his account rendered. I left St. George Island in charge of Assistant Treasury Agent William Gavitt, having fully instructed him in regard to his. duties. Mr. J. P. Manchester, assistant Treasury agent, is in charge of St. Paul Island, with full instructions. Capt. A. P. Loud, assistant Treasury agent, and myself return by the steamer St. Paul to San Francisco, from which place we will report by telegraph and await your further orders. I am, very respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Hon. C. S. Fairchild, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. G. SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT. San Francisco, August 19,1887. Sir : We arrived from the islands at Unalaska August 5. The cutter Rush came in same day, leaving early the morning of the 6th for the fur-seal islands. On the 7th the American schooner Anna, with 380 seal skins, was brought into port by a cutter officer, having been seized by Captain Sheppard. She reported the seizure of the British schooners Mary Ellen, 395 skins, and Alfred Adams, 1,400. The cutter also took 400 skins landed on an island by the British schooner Lottie 206 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Fairfield in the Bering Sea. This makes a total of 5,300 seal skins seized. I can not too highly commend Capt. L. D. Sheppard for the energy and correct business methods he has displayed in the execution of his orders. The owners of the Angel Dolly, seized by me, told me last night they intended to make a fight before the court, but they least of all have any ground of defense, as they were on Otter Island killing seals when sighted by me. I am, very respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Hon. C. S. Fairchild, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. G. Inclosures with Tingle's annual report for 1887; shipping receipts. Island of St. Paul, August 3, 1887. This is to certify that 85,000 far-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, August 1, 1887. This is to certify that 3,938 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master. J. P. Manchester, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, July 27, 1887. This is to certify that 11,062 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, master. J. P. Manchester, Assistant Treasury Agent. 1888. Special Agent Tingle; annual report for 1888. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul, Island, July 31,1888. Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith a report of the operations of the fur-seal islands of Alaska for the year ending July 31,1888. I inclose the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. PauVs receipts for 100,000 fur-seal skins " taken and shipped." Statement A shows the daily killing of seals, from which you will see the number of large seals killed after the close of the season of 1887 for native food was 4,885, of which number the Alaska Commercial Company accepted on the quota of 1888 4,630; there were 59 rejected, being under size, and 196 rejected, stagey. Two thousand one hundred and seventy-seven small pups were killed in November for native food, being 647 Jess than were killed the previous year, while the stagey skins destroyed this year were 394 less than the year last preceding. This was owing to the fact of the Alaska Commercial Company accepting and salting all the stagey skins that were but slightly touched, so as to save all that it is possible to pass as merchantable skins. The large killing of seals in November, December, and January for food showed an unusual number on the island at that season of the year. Mr. Manchester, assistant Treasury agent, in charge of St, Paul ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 207 Island, had the natives salt in the company's salt house a large portion of the meat, which gave them a better supply than they have had for several years in the winter when the islands are depopulated of seal. Statement B shows the killing on St. Paul and St. George consolidated each month. The extremely small number of seals rejected this year, viz, 273, attests the care which is exercised in killing the quota of 100,000. This insignificant loss is the more remarkable when it is considered that in the drives many large bulls and yearling seals are driven up to the killing grounds, which have to be separated in the pods when clubbing. The presence of these seals among the killables is very embarrassing to the clubbers, as they can not be turned out to return to the sea until nearly or quite all the acceptable seals are knocked down, when they are driven off to the water unharmed. The sealing throughout the season progressed without any serious interruptions, and was concluded in a most satisfactory manner by the lessees on both islands. There has been general good behavior among the natives on both islands during the past year, owing to the strict discipline and careful watchfulness of the Government officers in charge. The natives have performed their work during this sealing season with alacrity, each one manifesting a disposition to do his whole duty. The breeding rookeries were later filling this year than for several years past. I may say that fully three-fourths of the cows and bulls were ten days later hauling out than usual, which at the time gave the impression there would be a shortage this season of killable seals as well as breeders. I am happy to be able to report that, although late landing, the breeding rookeries are filled out to the lines of measurement heretofore made, and some of them much beyond those lines, showing conclusively that seal life is not being depleted, but is fully up to the estimates given in my report of 1887. The marauders which infest the sea, shooting and harassing the seals on their way to the islands, I am sure is the main cause of their late landing this year; and if this unlawful slaughtering of the fur seal in Bering Sea is not in some way effectually stopped, they will adopt some other route and make a home on some other land, most likely on the Russian side. The number hauling out on our islands will each year grow rapidly less, when it would be impossible for any lessee to secure the quota they may by contract be allowed to take, and your worldwide famous seal islands would be in a short time reduced to the home of a few straggling seals, and as a source of revenue be entirely destroyed. Although this question of unlawful killing of seals by schooners fitted out in British Columbia ports, as well as American, has been referred to at length in previous reports, I again beg to call the Department's attention to it. In view of the termination of the present lessees' contract on the 1st day of May, 1890, which gives them but one more season's killing, it is of the highest importance some definite and prompt action should be taken looking to the preservation of seal life, or the valuable seal property, which could be made to yield a larger revenue to the Government than it does now, will soon be of no value. With absolute protection the seals will increase so that a greater number could each year be taken, to keep pace with the increased demand, and the price cheapened to the people of the world, and particularly to those of moderate means in our own country, who would be glad to enjoy the comforts of the beautiful seal garment. On April 4 the steam whaler Grca, Captain Baldray, touched at this island on her way to the Arctic Ocean. The captain very kindly sent on shore a file of San Francisco papers up to the 5th of March, together with a 208 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. quantity of fresh fish and vegetables. In return for his kindness the Treasury agent, Mr. Manchester, and the Alaska Commercial Company's agent, Mr. Redpath, sent him off some presents. The weather last winter and spring was exceptionally mild; the lowest temperature in December was 14°, January 8°, and February 2° above zero, and then only for one day in each of the months. The ice did not make its appearance around either of the islands or even in sight, contrary to the usual custom. This is accounted for by the prevailing winds being east and southeast instead of north and northeast, as is generally the case. The condition of the natives on the two islands remains about the same as heretofore reported. They are slowly becoming more Americanized and are perfectly happy and contented, as they well may be with the treatment they receive at the hands of the Alaska Commercial Company and the Government. The usual number of deaths occurred this year, mostly the result of imprudent exposure. Although the best medical treatment is furnished them, with medicines free, they fail to give that careful attention to nursing which is necessary to bring them through. When they are remonstrated with for exposing themselves unnecessarily in bad weather, they generally reply in Russian, "Never mind; to die is good." When once prepared for death by the priest of the Greek Church, they calmly and happily await the end. No tears are shed by the relatives of the deceased and no sorrow is manifested in the household. If it is a wife, the husband, according to their custom, makes the coffin, and if a husband, then the nearest male relative makes the coffin. The body in all cases is taken to the church, where services are held, at the conclusion of which every man, woman, and child kisses the corpse on the forehead and on the left cheek. The body is then carried to the grave by the relatives and buried. A few days after the funeral a tea party is given at the house of the deceased, and is usually largely attended, mostly by the female portion of the population. After forty days' mourning and prayer, the surviving wife or husband, as the case may be, is at liberty to marry again. The sanitary condition of the villages on both islands could not be better; and, indeed, will compare very favorably with the small towns in the States, if not put many of them to shame, could they be compared. On the 17th of June, at noon, the United States man-of-war Thetis, Lieutenant-Commander Emory, arrived at this island and anchored, having on board his excellency, A. P. Swineford, governor of Alaska. Commander Emory, with a number of his officers and the governor, came on shore, and were met at the landing by the Treasury officials and Alaska Commercial Company's agent, Dr. H. H. Mclntyre, by whom a cordial welcome was extended the distinguished visitors. Every facility was offered the governor to further the object of his visit. He was placed in possession of the fullest information from the books, and by personal observation as well as inquiry among the natives, as to the management of the fur-seal islands. The entire ship's party were taken to the rookeries by the Treasury agent, as well as upon the seal fields, through the salt houses and store, schoolhouse and church, where the governor looked into everything critically. He took occasion to express himself as highly pleased with the condition of the natives and the management of the Government's interests and the relation of the lessees therewith. He was, indeed, quite profuse in his praise of the company's care and provision for the natives, as well as the correct methods of conducting the Government business. He thought it could not be improved on. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 209 The governor's visit can have but one result, as he is a fair man, viz, to give him the data gained by personal knowledge on which he will base a report correcting many of the errors into which he was led in his last report, by accepting as true the false statements of a man named Anderson. The visitors were entertained at the Government House, and on the 18th the Treasury agent returned their visit and was entertained at dinner on board the ship. The United States revenue cutter Bear, Capt. M. A. Healy, arrived and anchored at this island on the lGth of June, the day before the arrival of the Thetis. She brought our mail and papers from San Francisco up to May 25. The two ships left on the 10th at 3 p. m., under sail, for Unalaska. The Bear, after cruising to the south and eastward, returned to the island on the 7th of July, departing again the morning of the 8th instant at daylight. The United States revenue cutter Rush, Captain Sheppard, arrived at the island on the 25th instant, bringing mail for the islands from San Francisco up to July 2, and the first intelligence we had of the action of the two National conventions. The cutter Bear anchored here on the 20th instant and left on the 21st for the Arctic Ocean. She had cruised quite extensively in the Bering Sea since she was last here. Captain Healy reported to me that he had not sighted any schooners, which indicates an unusual absence of marauders this year. In a letter from Captain Glover, of the United States cutter Walcott, by the Rush, I am informed that the American schooners had decided not to enter Bering Sea this season to kill seals. Captain Glover's opportunities in Puget Sound for obtaining correct information are good. He is fully sustained by the reports from Captains Healy and Sheppard who, up to the last of this month, have not sighted a single marauding vessel in Bering Sea. The good work of the United States revenue cutters last year in seizing the vessels unlawfully engaged in sealing has had a salutary effect. While the vessels have kept out of Bering Sea up to this date, they have vigorously pursued the fur seals in the North Pacific Ocean en route to their home on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, killing and destroying a very large number. All the obligations of the lessees were performed to the entire satisfaction of the Government officers, and in strict accordance with their contract. Although the schools are as well supplied with every facility for teaching as can be found in any Eastern town, yet the native children make but limited progress in their studies. They are extremely dull and indifferent about learning, and are not encouraged by their parents to study, They are particularly averse to learning English. I leave St. George Island in charge of Capt. A. P. Loud, assistant Treasury agent, and St. Paul Island with Mr. J. P. Manchester, assistant Treasury agent, in charge. Mr. William Gavitt, assistant Treasury agent in charge of St. George Island during the past year, and myself, return to our homes as per Department letter of authority, March 5, 1888. Respectfully submitted. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Hon. C. S. Fairchild, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. H, Doc, 92 14 210 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. LNCLOSTJRE WITH TINGLE'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1888. Census January 1,1888. Families. Males. Females. Total. Deaths. Island. Adults. 5 to 17 years. TJnder 5 years. Adults. 5 to 17 years. Under 5 years. Births. St. Paul 64 30 58 29 19 13 15 8 81 37 34 22 20 10 227 119 20 15 8 St. George 7 A.—Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 31, 1888. Date. 1887. July 31 Aue. 1 8 16 24 5 6 15 28 6 17 26 1 Sept. Oct Nov, Dec. 3 4 6 7 25 26 9 15 June 1888. Jan. 25 May 19 24 28 81 o 7 9 11 12 15 16 18 18 19 19 21 21 22 22 23 23 25 Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Northeast Point....... 39 Zoltoi 137 Balance over on shipment. Zoltoi 113 Reef and Lukannon 209 EnglishBay 521 MiddleHill 403 English i ■ a v 356 Zoltoi 195 do 100 do 116 do 108 do 76 Reef 1,013 do 1,132 do 32, Zoltoi 65 MiddleHill 611 Reef | 82 185 450 © oo tc a B o P-> CD bO u 08 IB o H 39 137 113 209 521 rO © CD 8 • o eo a id n M 6Q 39 137 113 207 519 Skins rejected Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggree ate. © N ' 00 u © a © bO 03 CQ 2... 403 403. 356 356. 192 100 116 108 76 186 .. 75 .. 41 .. 50.. 44 .. Accepted. GQ oo 0) r—i o OB a o o u ■ © Ph w 39 © r- X 5 o 6 25 75 58 32 Middle Hill and Tolstoi do Sea Lion Rock and Southwest Bay Northeast Point Tolstoi Reef and Sea Lion. Reef do Northeast Point Reef Reef and Zoltoi Tolstoi Southwest Bay English Bay Halfway Point Reef and Zoltoi............ Southwest Bay. Northeast Point. Tolstoi Northeast Point........... Reef and Zoltoi Northeast Point J Halfway Point Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, an Middle Hill Northeast Point Southwest Bay Northeast Poiut...... 651 65 ........ 611 590 21..., 82 78 4.... 185 185....I.... 450 445 51... 169 169 167 545 545 131 lia 82 131 113 82 82 12 113j 82 82 2 13 ... 1 10... 132 56 . 113. 207. 509 397 352 181 75 . 41 . 50 . 44. 5... 10 6 4 5 © Q O 03 00 a M GO 39 137 56 113 207 519 403 356 186 75 41 50 44 o *? a w a M CQ 65 584 78 1831 4361 167 9 5«S 119 lla 81 82. 120 175. 337 541 5761 424 780 757 1,468 487 914 1,382 1,598 788; 6911 8 I 8 7 22 3 16 16 11 11 9 561 4 965 8 1.429 11 856 14 65 590! 78 185 445 167 532 121 113 82 82 121 175 342 543 584 428 788 764 1,490 490 930 1,398 1,604 799 700j 565 978 1,440 870 6 25 75 58 32 21 4 5 2 13 10 T3 © M CO © CO © 39 137 56 113 209 521 403 356 192 100 116 108 76 65 611 82 185 450 169 545 181 118 82 82 121 175 842 543 587 428 789 764 1,490 490 930 1,400 1,604 801 702 565 978 1,440 870 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 211 A.—Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Num seai w ber of skilled lesspfia Aggregate. 00 Pi 00 « CD 00 be a p o CD bJO tH a h3 ^3 •43 o H r& Ph<o CD CD © CD Ogi—1 03 d •H M CQ Skins rejected. for skins. © ■+5 Pi © © at 00 a M CQ r6 © H5 © CD tH 00 .9 M CQ Accepted. u © a r£ 5 oo -43 CD © -r-i CD Ph CD N "oo tH <D PI ' CD bO ea CQ *s Date. CD a .rH tH Ph oo 00 a o <xt p o © CD CQ rH M oo « © 00 43 O EH 1888. June 26 English Bay, Middle Hill, 1,144 1,496 1,968 847 903 1,177 1,083 620 1,607 960 14 13 37 3 8 3 15 5 1,158 1,509 2,005 850 911 1,180 1,098 625 1,625 964 2,071 1,413 1,188 1,439 822 1,241 1,942 446 1,491 1,609 490 906 2,398 1,740 1,082 959 1,554 927 1,337 912 773 550 480 2,004 1,038 2,054 1,328 2,216 1,004 1,410 705 2,018 646 1,157 190 742 1,269 917 347 970 1,619 1,028 1,353 650 950 .... "i 1,158 26 1,509 27 Reef, Zoltoi, Ketova, and 2,005 27 Northeast Point............. 850 28 911 28 1,180 29 1,098 29 625 30 Middle Hill, English Bay, 18.... 4 1,625 30 964 July 2 2 Reef and Zoltoi 2,054 17 1,410 3 1,175 13 1,433 6 812 10 2,071 Northeast Point 1,413 3 Halfway Point 1,188 3 Northeast Point 1,439 4 Southwest Bay 822 4 Northeast Point 1.233 8 1,241 5 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Lukannon 1,921 21 442 4 1,942 5 Northeast Point .... 446 6 Reet and Zoltoi...... 1 1,457 34 1,491 6 Northeast Point 1.595 • 14 1,609 7 Halfway Point .' 489 1 905 1 2.375 23 * *" " 490 7 Northeast Point. -; 906 9 English Bay, Tolstoi, Lukannon, and Middle Hill.. 2,398 9 Northeast Point . --- 1,724 16 1,068 14 1 950 9.-.. 1,508' 46 3 921 6.... 1.325 19, 1,740 10 Reef and Zoltoi 1,083 10 Northeast Point 959 12 English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi 3 1,557 12 Northeast Point 927 13 Southwest Bay 1,337 13 Northeast Point 909 768 547 473 1,977 1,029 2,034 1,320 2,181 99K 3 .... 5 3 .... 7 1 27.... 9 .... 20 1 912 14 Halfway Point 773 14 Northeast Point 550 15 WestPoint 1 481 16 Reef and Zoltoi 2,004 16 Northeast Point 1,038 17 English Bay and Tolstoi 1 2,055 17 8 35 Q 1,328 18 Southwest Bay ........... -1 2,216 18 1,004 19 Halfway Point 1,397| 13 702 3 2,003 15 644 2 1,138 19 1,410 19 Northeast Point 705 20 Reef and Zoltoi . 2,018 20 Northeast Point 646 21 English Bay and Tolstoi 1,157 21 Lagoon 188 2 736 6 1,247 22 913 4 345 2 962 8 1.588 31 190 21 Northeast Point 742 23 Reef, Lukannon, and Zoltoi Northeast Point 1,269 23 917 24 Halfway Point 347 24 Northeast Point 970 25 English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi l.filfl 25 Northeast Point 1,025 3 1,330 23 647 3 935 15 1,028 26 Reef. Zoltoi, and Lukannon Northeast Point 1,353 26 650 27 Southwest Bay and Zoltoi... 950 Total 4,630 59 2,177 4,885|4,885 1 ] 196 84,110 890 1 1 16 85,000 27185,271 "1 212 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. XNCLOSURES WITH TINGLE'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1888. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 31^1888. Date. 1887. July 31 Aug. 3 6 12 20 22 Sept. 5 10 19 Oct. 24 Nov. 1 7 1888. June 6 11 Jnly Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. P rM Balance over shipment. Near East do do do North Zapadnie - do East Near do 742 614 North Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East. do Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East. ....do Zapadnie Starry Ateel and North East Starry Ateel and North. Zapadnie East Starry Ateel and North. East Zapadnie Starry Ateel and North. East. bo P P O oo © 2 bO tH 53 41 87 23 61 44 24 45 126 24 Starry Ateel and North Zapadnie North I Starry Ateel and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East.. Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East.. Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East . Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East.. c3 43 O H 53 41 86 23 61 53 41 87 23 61 44 24 45 [.... 126 126 24 24 •P © 43 • «. 00 © © s © © 3 M 00 03 j) P.O. M CQ Skins rejected. tH © _, CD ■P N p'oo © bO cs 43 CQ 44 24 45 Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. u Pj 43 P< © o o < 4 53 41 86 23 61 126 24 121 272 455 227 427 324 764 908 894 438 341 341 530 503 648 389 1,169 810 508 694 407 683 366 550 179 405 159 520 142 1 ■ 408 u © P 5 • © © rA Aggregate. © 43 p< © o © o3 oo •9 M CQ 4 53 41 86 23 61 43 o © M CQ 126 24 121 272 455 227 427 324 764 908 894 438 341 341 530 503 648 389 1,169 810 508 694 407 683 866 550 179 405 159 520 142 408 44 24 45 •o 03 © . 00'P © >M O EH 4 53 41 87 23 61 44 24 45 126 24 121 272 455 227 427 324 764 908 895 438 341 341 530 503 648 389 ,169 810 508 694 407 683 366 550 179 405 159 520 142 408 Total 1,356 528 528 414 1 113 15,000 15,000 115 15,115 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 213 Consolidated annual report of fur seals killed at the seal islands of Alaska during the year ended July 81, 1888. HiS Fulled for natives' food. Killed by the lessees for skins. Aggregate. CO Ph P Ph to "ol © CO bO a P o © bO rj a rA 4 43 o n »P © Ch CO © s §8 rH 00 Q M CQ Skins rej ected. Skins accepted. P P_ rr-\ . -3 © tH <p oo-P 1 •rH M CQ fp © 43 0 © •3? u 00 s •rH CQ 43 i © > «FH © • © 00 © © tH © a * -cl-0 43 0 i >P © . J& © Ta-P CS 43 CD 00 bo P m i Where and when killed. © "oo 1 ■P § P © bO c3 43 CQ ©. a •rH tH Ph 00 oo 03 l-H © -P a o © © CQ St. Paul. . 1887. 39 39 39 39 a 56 961 1,005 135 910 603 528 394 26,649 52,830 39 a 56 976 1,020 135 918 612 532 398 26,929 53, 385 39 a 56 I)o 980 1,051 300 943 619 545 408 980 1,051 300 943 619 545 408 976 1,020 135 918 612 532 398 4 25 7 13 10 31 165 15 15 4 31 165 25 7 13 10 10 6 980 1,051 October. .............. 300 2,177 8 9 4 4 280 555 10 6 943 619 1888. 545 ■ 408 26,939 53,391 Total 2,177 4,885 4,885 4,630 59 196 84,110 890 16 271 85,000 85,271 St. George. 1887. ■ July 31 264 a A 264 126 24 5,171 9,411 a4 265 113 126 24 265 113 ' 126 24 264 1 113 1 1 113 265 September............... 113 October. 126 24 126 24 5,171 9,411 216 November .......... 1,356 24 1888. 1 1 5,172 9,411 Total 1,356 528 528 414 1 113 15,000 890 2 115 15, 000 15,115 Total, both islands. 3,533 5,413 5,413 5,044 60 309 99,110 18 386 100, 000 100,386 a Balance over shipment. Alaska Commercial Company, in account with the United States at St. Paul Island. Dr. August 1,1887. To supply of coal for native use as per lease, 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite quantity; maintenance of school, eight months. Cr. August 1, 1887. By coal for native use as per lease, 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, all they wish; barrels, all they wish. April 26, 1888. Maintenance of school, eight months. Alaska Commercial Company, in account with the United States at St. George Island. Dr. August 1,1887. To supply of coal for native use as per lease, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, as required; barrels, as required; maintenance of school, eight months. Cr. August 1,1887. By cbal for native use as per lease, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, all they wish; barrels, as required. April 30, 1888. Maintenance of school, eight months. 214 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. ST. PAUL ISLAND. The Alaska Commercial Company, to oil fund account. Dr. 1887. July 31. To balance $151.52 Cr. Oct. 8. By repairs on native well and pump $1.50 29. Turfing native well-house 4.00 1888. May 19. Labor, cleaning native welt-house 1. 50 26. Repairs on native pump 3. 65 10.65 Balance 140.87 The Alaska Commercial Company, to general fund\account. Dr. 1887 July 31. To balance $110.70 Cr. 1888. May 19. By labor for cleaning streets 7.50 Balance 103.20 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Alaska Commercial Company, in account with general fund. July 31, 1888. To fines imposed by Government officers on natives from August 21, 1883, to date, for violation of orders and various offenses $258.60 Note.—It is proposed, unless otherwise ordered, to use the above accumulation of fines to build for the use of the natives a meat and ice house to carry them through the season when the seals are stagey. Island of St. George, July 80,1888. This is to certify that 9,948 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, whereof M. C. Erskine is master. William Gavitt, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, August 9, 1888. This is to certify that 85,000 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, whereof M. C. Erskine is master. Geo. R. Tingle, Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, August 9,1888. This is to certify that 5,052 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, commanded by M. C. Erskine. William Gavitt, Assistant Treasury Agent. 1889. Special Agent Goff; Annual Report for 1889. St. Paul Island, July 31,1889. Sir : I have the honor to transmit a report of the operations and the condition of the seal islands of Alaska for the year ending July 31,1889. I also accept and inclose the reports of Mr. J. P. Manchester and Oapt. A. P. Loud, assistant Treasury agents, of St. Paul and St. George ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 215 islands, respectively, they having been personally in charge of these islands for the past two years. The inclosed tabulated mortality tables made by Dr. 0. A. Lutz, the resident physician of this island, are correct and worthy of consideration. I shall confine my remarks to the Island of St. Paul, as I have had no opportunity to visit St. George Island since my arrival here, June 1. I am satisfied, however, from the information I have received from Col. Joseph Murray, Treasury agent, now in charge of St. George Island, that the same condition of affairs exists there as on this (St. Paul) island. By referring to the itemized statement of skins taken, you will observe the number of pups killed for food during the fall of 1888 was 2,178. This was an unusually small number, excepting the year previous, but it was adjudged the proper per cent to kill under the existing circumstances and respecting the future of the rookeries. The killing of a large number of merchantable seals for food followed during the winter. These skins were salted and accepted by the Alaska Commercial Company as part of their quota of skins for this year. The first appearance of the bulls at their usual annual haunts was May 5, but the coming of these animals to the rookeries was unusually late, followed by a late appearance of the cows. At first it was supposed that the ^severe winter had prevented the seals from returning as in the past, but close observation on the part of Mr. J. P. Manchester revealed the fact that it was owing to the scarcity of the seals, which was to him very perceptible as the season advanced, and as the killing by the Alaska Commercial Company proceeded, the daily, weekly, and monthly receipts were much smaller than ever before. The small number of pups killed in the fall for food, the late appearance of the bulls and cows the following spring in large schools as in the past, and tbe alarming decrease in the daily, weekly, and monthly receipts of the Alaska Commercial Company, and as a dernier resort by said company to secure their 100,000 skins the killing of smaller seals than was customary, attest conclusively that Mr. J. P. Manchester's observations were undoubtedly correct, that there is a scarcity of seals, and that within the last year or so they are from some cause decreasing far beyond the increase. As this is the last year of the present lease and there is a new lease to be made, I would respectfully suggest that it is of vital importance to the existence of seal life that the annual quota in the future be limited to the taking of 60,000 skins as the maximum from the Pribilof Islands, 52,500 from St. Paul, Otter, and Walrus islands, and 7,500 from St. George for the first five ye^ars of the lease. At the expiration of said time the number to be increased or decreased, as the Secretary of the Treasury may deem advisable. The work of killing seals and salting skins has been accomplished only through the assistance rendered by labor imported from Unalaska, as the number of laborers on the island was too small to complete the task within the limited time allotted by the Government. By reference to the census, you will see that the inhabitants are annually decreasing, and that the females are largely in excess of the males. Here I will say that I heartily concur with Mr. T. F. Ryan, formerly Treasury agent to these islands, whose letter to the Department bearing date April 8, 1889, upon this subject was referred to me. And in reply to Department letter to me, bearing date May 6,1889, will say that some way to infuse new life into these few remaining people should be devised by the Department at once and speedily executed before it is too late. It is impossible for the Treasury agent in charge to receive reliable information concerning the wishes and condition of the natives elsewhere on the Aleutian chain, whether 216 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. they are willing or even would come to these islands to live. He has no facility for traveling to either Otter or Walrus islands, both within a range of 10 miles to this island (and it is his duty to visit them occasionally), without it is through the courtesy extended by the Alaska Commercial Company, and at no little expense to the company. If it is deemed advisable to send a vessel along the Aleutian chain to secure strong, healthy male laborers, who are willing to come to these islands and make them their future homes, it should be done at once, under the supervision of a Treasury agent familiar with the conditions of St. Paul and St. George islands, accompanied by a resident physician from one of the islands. On June 27 the Alaska Commercial Company, through Dr. H. H. Mclntyre, their general manager, furnished me a boat, manned and rigged, and I visited Otter Island, and found about 2,000 killable seals, and many were in the water near by. Under the present lease the lessees are not allowed to kill seals on this island. Consequently they are not molested, unless taken by pirates, which has 'been the result once or twice in the past. This island and Walrus should be included in the next lease. The number of resident laborers on this island at present is 52, aged from 63 to 13 years, classified as follows: Clubbers, 6; stickers, 6; flippers, 8; skinners, 32. The number of laborers from Unalaska is 23. These men did general work, such as salting skins, booking, bundling, and delivering them to the warehouse ready for shipment. This entire work was formerly done by the natives, but of late years the native force became too small, compelling the Alaska Commercial Company to introduce labor from abroad. These men, however, are paid by the Alaska Commercial Company, and the natives receive the entire proceeds of the catch. The number of seals killed upon this island this season was 85,000 and sea lions 25. The killing commenced June 5 and ended July 31. The natives realized $33,759.80 for the season's catch, which was distributed as per inclosed statement. On June 26 the United States man-of-war the Thetis, Lieutenant- Commander Stockton, arrived from Sitka; also the United States cutter Rush, Captain Sheperd. The Thetis left the following day at noon for St. Michaels, en route for Point Barrow, and the Rush June 28, for a cruise through Bering Sea. On July 18 Mr. Webster, the Alaska Commercial Company's agent at Northeast Point, this island, sighted a schooner about 5 miles off the island. On July 25 the United States cutter Rush, Captain Sheperd, again anchored at east landing, and informed me that he had seized the British schooners Mattie and Black Diamond. The Mattie was seized July 17, and had on board 418 seal skins. The Black Diamond was seized July 11, with 7G seal skins aboard. He also informed me that there were no less than thirty schooners in Bering Sea with predatory intentions. It" these piratical vessels are allowed to butcher the seals regardless of age and sex the seals of Alaska will soon be exterminated. The prosperity of these world-renowned rookeries is fast fading away under the present annual catch allowed by law, and this indiscreet slaughter now being waged in these waters will only hasten the end of the fur seals of the Pribilof islands. Captain Sheperd is a faithful, conscientious, and energetic officer, and is deserving the loudest encomium from the Department, but without assistance it is impossible for him to police these waters effectually. On the retirement of Mr. J. P. Manchester the Department loses a fearless, faithful, and honorable officer—one who has in the performance of his duties reflected credit upon himself and honor on his Gov- ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 217 ernment. Capt. A. P. Loud has also discharged his duties in a credit- aVle manner, and retires from office leaving a record to be envied by his successor. In conclusion, I desire to say that the Alaska Commercial Company has not only strictly conformed to the requirements of the lease during the present season, bu# has manifested a generous protectorate over the natives. Bespectfully submitted. Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent. Hon. Wm. Windom, Secretary of the Treasury. INCLOSTJEES WITH GOEF'S ANNUAL EEPOET FOE, 1889. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 31,1889. Bookery. Numher of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. . Date. to m An § o • CD CD co g 1 f-H o T5 ® . rA CD CD CD O oo O oo a cd DO'* el >s 3-° m g CD rX. tH tH CD mrrj 9 pi MB m Accepted. I ^CD CD 1 n3 CD •♦a m CD O O OJ CQ M 02 CD ->s O CD 'a? tH eo a •rH M za CO F—1 CD 1 'tH Ah CQ CO c3 *-H 0 CM ©rrf CQ C »—I •—1 •i-i 0 H 1888. Aue 2 Zoltoi 177 140 159 364 321 19 114 100 98 98 83 98 111 126 177 140 159 364 321 19 114 100 98 98 83 98 111 126 111 140 159 362 321 19 98 97 98 *2 Wm 3 172 134 158 349 313 19 95 92 98 98 83 98 111 126 5 6 1 13 8 177 140 159 362 321 19 98 97 98 98 83 98 111 126 177 8 do 140 16 do 159 23 24 Middle Hill and Lukannon Zoltoi .. ...... us 364 321 24 do.. 19 Sept. 6 15 do 3 5 114 do 100 22 do 98 29 do 98 98 Oct. 10 Lukannon . 83 98 111 126 83 18 MiddleHill 98 27 do 111 Nov. 3 Middle Hill and Znlf.ni 126 5 Eeef 761 547 716 154 7 do 8 do 9 do 15 MiddleHill 277 111 129 206 78 124 41 234 133 277 111 129 206 78 124 41 234 133 277 111 127 190 78 124 41 234 133 "2 16 274 110 125 190 78 122 41 231 133 192 119 944 751 339 885 1,053 1,143 1,264 494 1,541 252 1,197 1,330 749 2,546 3 1 2 277 111 127 190 78 124 41 234 133 201 120 947 762 340 895 1,054 1,160 1,270 494 1,561 253 1,205 1,355 754 2,578 1 277 26 Eeef 111 30 do 129 Dec. 17 Tolstoi 206 26 Sea Lion Eock 78 1889. May 22 25 Sea Lion Eock 2 124 Eeef 41 28 do 3 234 31 Northeast Point 133 June 5 Eeef 9 1 3 11 1 10 1 17 6 1 201 10 do 120 12 Tolstoi 947 14 Zoltoi and Eeef 762 15 Southwest Bay 340 17 Halfway Point 895 17 Northeast Point 1,054 18 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1 161 18 Northeast Point 1,270 19 do 494 19 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 20 1 8 25 5 32 1,561 20 Southwest Bay 253 21 Northeast Point 1,205 22 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1,355 754 24 Northeast Point 24 Eeef and Zoltoi 2,578 218 ALASKA INDUSTEIES. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul's Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. Eookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Numher of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. Date. co Ph § Ah a © . r*a00 l-H cj 3 Hi c3 •+3 O H T3 CD •^ j; §1 CS <t) OQ r-l 0 >> M"0 Xfl ^ . <D^. §.8 CD <Drr} .2 n m3, 02 Accepted. CO A co •S ° Ah cm a . 0} DO Cv <t) Ph CD -t» Ph CD O O 3 CO d M 02 *6 V +3 O CD •0? tH 00 a rU 02 CO r—1 c8 ®rrH 1—1 ^rH &M 0 1889. Halfway Point and Lukannon.. 969 1,394 1,283 441 205 10 13 31 ""i "2 1 i 4 07Q 979 25 Northeast Point 1,407 1,314'.... 4411 311 844'.... 1,349'.... 479;.... 335!.... 1,038'.... 1,200;.... 1,023 .... 8311 1,407 26 English Bay and Middle Hill... 1,314 26 Northeast Point 441 27 311 27 Northeast Point 840 4 i sis ai 844 28 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Ketovia . 1 349 28 Northeast Point 476 334 1,009 1,187 1,007 822 964 1,788 1,689 1,552 1,225 1,520 1,287 373 806 909 1,296 638 645 798 1,974 987 788 2,996 1,818 1,882 1,148 1. 903 3 1 29 13 16 12 4 53 27 7 30 4 15 3 7 5 18 3 9 2 30 19 5 87 20 29 8 28 479 29 do 335 29 English Bay and Tolstoi 1,038 July 1 1 Northeast Point [ 1,200 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 1,023 2 Halfway Point 834 2 Northeast Point 968 1,841 1,716 1,559 1,255 1,524 1,302 376 813 914 1,314 641 654 800 2,004 1,006 793 3,083 1 838 1,911 1,156 1,931 948 2,045 1,282 2,016 834 1,913 243 1,943 350 1,122 740 1,384 616 1,752 1 679 1,433 1,105 1,640 1,624 973 615 538 "i "2 1 i 4 i 3 .... 968 3 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1,841 4 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 1,716 4 Northeast Point. 1,559 5 1,255 5 Northeast Point 1,524 6 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1,302 6 Northeast Point.. ■ 376 8 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 814 8 Northeast Point 914 9 English Bay and Tolstoi 1,314 9 641 10 Halfway Point 654 10 Northeast Point-. 800 12 Eeef and Zoltoi 2,004 13 Southwest Bay 1,006 13 Northeast Point 793 15 English Bay and Middle Hill... 3,085 15 Northeast Point ... 1,838 16 Eeef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 1,911 16 1,156 17 1 Halfway Point and Lukannon Beach .- 1,931 17 Northeast Point 940 8 1,999 46 1.564. 18 948 18 Lagoon, English Bay, and Middle Hill 2,046 18 Northeast Point.. - 1,282 19 Southwest Bay .. 1,987 826 1,867 24.1 29 8 46 9 2,017 19 Northeast Point.. ... .. 834 20 1,913 20 Northeast Point.. 243 22 English Bay, Middle Hill, and 1,897 46 348 2 1,943 22 350 23 1,106 730 1,360 613 1,705 1 658 1,417 1,067 1,588 1,604 961 603 537 16 10 24 3 47 1,122 23 740 24 Halfway Point . 1,384 24 616 24 TCnglish Bf(.y and IVfiddle Hill.. 1,756 24 Northeast Point.. 1 26 21 16 38 52 20 12 12 1 1 * 3 680 26 1,433 27 1,105 29 English Bav and Middle Hill.. 1,643 29 Northeast Point.. .. 1,624 30 973 30 Southwest Bay . 615 31 Northeast Point .......... 538 Total 3,178 3,3413,341 1 1 3,302 39 83,739 1,261 14 85, 000 14 85,053 Note.—The 39 skins rejected in the food killing were given to the natives for their use. The 14 skins rejected during sealing season were also given to the natives for their use. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 219 Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended July $9,1889. Eookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food; Number of seals killed hy lessees for skins. Aggregates. Date. 00 Ph Ai oo H a CD CQ Is o CD btl u cS Hi 1 © r*> •n mm a ® 3, "o i—( CQ Pi M co Skins rejected. Accepted, a CD m CD O O cS CQ CO •+5 O CD '& tH CQ a M CO -d « CD "oo tH CD § 1 CD a to CD a 'tH Ah oo CQ cS 'o "3 Pt o o CD CO .rH 1 00 i CD CD rH a 0 H 1888. Aug. 9 9 15 20 28 Sept. 5 27 Oct. jJO 30 Nov. 1 5 1889. May 22 June 4 10 10 39 37 191 494 428 40 73 68 10 .... 10 32 35 191 494 396 "7 2 '*32 40 10 "MVyH-h 32 35 191 494 396 7 2 39 <j0 37 "Roat 191 Rt,f»rr\r A +.pa1 and rTortli ..... 494 32 428 "NTrtrth ........ 40 40 73 73 68 f3 68 68 610 368 610 rln 368 60 60 60 156 207 244 773 176 284 596 .... 60 156 207 244 769 176 282 595 496 221 426 165 273 418 229 269 192 664 371 1,026 437 1,134 495 625 279 1,419 93S 566 51 f '"i "2 1 156 207 17 244 18 21 NnrtTi T5a at and Starrv Ateel .. 773 176 22 284 24 596 25 4961 496 27 2 223.... 3 429.... 2 167.... 2 275 223 29 429 July 1 2 167 "North "East and Starrv _A_teel .. 275 5 do "3 "2 2 6 5 3 "ii 3 2 418 .... 229 .... 269 1 192 667,.... 371 1,028.--. 439.... 1,140.... 500.... 418 g 229 10 North TCflst and Starrv Ateel 270 12 192 13 North East and»Starry Ateel -. 667 15 371 16 North East and Starry Ateel . 1,028 18 439 19 North, East, and Starrv Ateel .. 1,140 22 500 23 North, East, and Starry Ateel .. 628 279 1,430 942 568 515 . . . - 628 24 279 25 North, East and Starry Ateel .. 1,430 27 . do . 942 28 568 29 North, East, and Starry Ateel . 515 Total 978 1,440 2, 418 1 1,349 41 4013.598 53 15,00C 82 16, 060 1 ' l a There was only one rejected skin through the whole killing season. The Alaska Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island. Dr. Aug. 1, 1888. To coal for natives (as per lease), 40 tons; fish, 60 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite quantity; maintenance of school 8 months. Cr. Aug. 1,1888. By coal for natives, 40 tons; fish, all they wanted; salt, requisite quantity ; barrels, requisite quantity. April 25, 1889. Maintenance of schools, 8 months. II ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The Alaska Commercial Company in account with St. Paul Island. June 1, 1889. To balance $322.22 By general fund $182.55 By old oil account 139. 67 322.22 The Alaska Commercial Company, in account with the United States, at St. George. Dr. Aug. 1,1888. To coal for natives, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite quantity; maintenance of school eight months. Cr. Aug. 1, 1888. By coal, 20 tons; fish, 20 barrels; salt, requisite quantity; barrels, requisite quantity. Apr. 27,1889. Maintenance of school, eight months. The Alaska Commercial Company, in account with the Island of St. George. Dr. May 31,1889. To balance .' $258.60 Cr. May 31,1889. By fines deposited by Government officers for violation of orders and various offenses during several years 258. 60 Consolidated annual report of fur seals killed at the seal islands of Alaska during the year ended July 31, 1889. Killed hy the lessees for skins. Cgreeate. T3 rSrl CO © 1,180 410 292 643 284 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 221 Distribution of proceeds from seals taken on St. George Island. For 15,000 skins taken on St. George $6,000 By division from St. Paul 1 1,300 $7,300 First class, 100 per cent: Lestenkoff, Demetria 380 f Nederazoff, Arkenty 380 Philimanoff, Simeon 380 Philimanoff, Eoff 380 Merculiff, Sebastian 380 Gorokoff, Corneal 380 Swetsoff, Eustin 380 Oustigoff, Alexa 380 3,040 Second class, 85 per cent: Oustigoff, Zahar 323 Philimanoff, Andronic 323 Malavansky, Nicoli 323 I : 969 Third class, 75 per cent: Philimanoff, Audrian 285 Oustigoff, Simeon 285 Lakanoff, Stepan 285 855 Fourth class, 55 per cent: Kulikaloff, John 209 Rezanzoff, Peter 209 Mercxiliff, Joe 209 Rezanzoff, Innokenty 209 836 Special: Lestenkoff, Mike 75 Merculiff, George 75 Philimanoff, Gregory 75 Philimanoff, Ifreme 75 300 Galinin, Pafara 50 Prakapoff, Peter „ 50 Rezanzoff, Seraphema (orphan) 50 Lestinkoff, Demetria (first chief) 50 Nederazoff, Arkenty (second chief) 50 250 Galinin, Okalena 100 Shane, Riesa 150 250 Lestinkoff, Rev. Innokenty 800 7, 300 Recapitulation of distribution of proceeds from fur seals taken on St. Paul Island for 1889. 83,724 seal skins, at 40 cents -. $33,489.60 1,276 seal skins cut, at 20 cents 255.20 25 sea lion skins, at 60 cents 15.00 33,759.80 Less paid men on St. George 1,300.00 32,459.80 Provisions at Northeast Point | 129.80 Distributed to the natives 32,330.00 26 first-class men received, each, $627.85 16, 324.10 10 second-class men received, each, $565.05 5, 650.50 6third-class men received, each, $502.29 3,013.74 4 fourth-class men received, each, $439.49 1,757.96 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 3 fifth-class men received, each, $376.73 $1,130.19 3 seventh-class men received, each, $251.17 753.51 Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff $1,000.00 2chiefs, extra 1 200.00 Estate of Osesar Shabolin 250. 00 Estate of Akaki Galkin | 250.00 Widows 2,000.00 3,700.00 Inclosure with Goff's Annual Report for 1889. St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 1,1889. Sib : I herewith present, for your consideration, the accompanying tables. A cursory examination of them will show that the prevailing causes of death are phthisis, pneumonia, scrofula, and bronchitis, and that the number of deaths in seventeen years has been greater than the entire number of births in the same period of time, or the total number of inhabitants in 1872. In all general computations relative to this island females are in excess—the average number of inhabitants being, males, 107; females, 136; births, males, 6; females, 8; deaths, males, 8.88; females, 9.88. The average population is about 244, and the average rate of death per thousand is 84.34. Starting with a population, in 1872, composed of 106 males and 112 females, and taking all births and deaths into consideration since that time, it is found, that the population dwindled down by natural causes to 147 in the period of seventeen years, and that the present population of 223, composed of 88 males and 135 females, is explained by the fact that from time to time the number of inhabitants here was increased by the arrival of people from other places. These arrivals, apparently 76 in number, consisted of the women, and sometimes of the women and children, taken by St. Paul residents in marriage, and were 5 in excess of the actual decrease in population since 1872. This is a statement of facts only, but anyone can see at a glance that the natural tendency of these people is towards extinction, and that result, unless measures are taken to meet the case, will be brought about in twice the period of time covered by these tables. Very respectfully, yours, Ohas. A. Lutz, M. D., Resident 'Physician Alaska Commercial Go. Hon. Ohas. J. Goff, Special Agent United States Treasury. Births for seventeen years on St. Paul Island. Male. Female. Total. 4 6 10 1 3 4 5 9 14 4 8 12 10 11 21 6 7 13 7 12 19 10 9 19 9 12 21 10 10 20 Tear. 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 Total Male. 11 4 8 4 2 6 Female. 109 12 6 10 6 6 139 Total. 12 19 16 14 14 8 12 248 f ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 223 Monthly distribution of mortality on St. Paul Island, Alaska, for seventeen years. Monthi 3. Tear. u a tH c3 0 tH r3 <D m rS O tH a 1 •r-i H Pi < r*i cB 5 P 0 ■+3 in 3 So rj u ® 45 Pi <0 CO rl CD r= O 45 O o u <o rP rj CD o tH CD rP a s e o ft. r-5 C3 45 O H 1872 3 1 1 1 1 1 6 3 3 2 2 4 l l l l l 4 1 2 i i l 3 2 1 1 1 5 3 2 1 2 4 2 1 1 1 2 2 1 3 1 2 . 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 2 2 1 7 10 1873 3 1 1 1 5 1 3 8 10 2 1 1 15 1874 10 1875 2 1 1 9 1876 1 3 2 6 1 1 •1 17 1877 18 1878 21 1879 3 2 2 2 1 12 18 1880 1 1 6 1 1 3 20 1881 1 2 1 17 1882 1 1 1 22 50 1883 26 1884 1 1 2 5 1 1 1 i 2 2 1 4 4 1 3 1 6 1 2 3 1 3 12 1885 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 14 1886 1 1 1 10 6 14 1887 21 1888 3 27 Total 32 17 15 29 36 53 26 28 13 18 31 21 319 Mortality in reference to age on St. Paul Island for seventeen years. Tear. Sex. 1872 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 Total.. Males. 6 9 3 5 6 6 9 9 10 6 29 13 4 5 5 11 15 Ee males. 4 6 7 4 11 12 12 9 10 11 21 13 8 9 9 10 12 TJnder one year. 3 2 2 3 10 1 9 7 9 5 10 13 1 7 3 5 3 1 to 5 years. 3 4 3 1 1 9 4 6 2 4 14 5 to 10 years. 10 to 20|20 to 30 30 to 40 40 to 50 50 to 60 60 to 70 years, years, years, years, years, years. 12 151 168 93 70 15 20 34 33 31 16 Total. 10 .15 10 9 17 18 21 18 20 17 50 26 12 14 14 21 27 319 General record of deaths at St. Paul Island, Alaska, for seventeen years- inclusive. -1872 to 1888, +5 o H 45 P CD CD U CD Ph Sex. Ages. Disease. co CD 3 S3 tH 08 CD rH P P CD tH a CD l>i in O +a rH to tH c3 <X> r^ O t-H O +5 lO 00 tH a <D © CN O o rH 00 M 03 CD h. o CO o o CM 0Q tH 3 CD t>> O -«tl O +5 © CO tH c3 CD O to o © -<* tH 03 CD r"» © CD O © tH c3 CD © O 45 © CO 20 6.26 11 38 48 18 6 30 9 46 51 22 6 34 5 5 28 22 4 29 Q 1 3 11 4 1 1 20 7 1 3 3 1 17 11 1 3 1 8 9 3 1 9 Class II. Constitutional diseases Class III. Local diseases Class IV. Developmental diseases Class V. Violent deaths 84 99 40 12 64 319 26.33 31.03 12.53 3.76 20.06 10 9 25 3 8 .... 2 ' 1 16 1 3 8 3 1 4 2 Class VI. Deaths from causes not recorded. 9, Total 151 47.33 168 52.66 93 29.15 ; 70 15 20I :-u 33 10.34 —— 31 9.71 Ifil 7 Per cent to total mortality 21.94 4.70 6.26 10.65 5.01 2.19 224 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. General record of deaths at St. Paul Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. •a 45 o H 45 p 0 CO U CD Ph Sex. Ages. Disease. CO CD 1 co CD "ccl CD ft o3 CD t>j rH tH CD P CO tH c3 CD >> m 0 ■45 rH CO tH C3 CD r"l © rH O +J m co tH o3 CD r*» © CN O 45 © rH co u CS CD © CO 0 H-5 © CN CD tH c3 CD © 0 45 © CO CO u 03 CD O in O +5 © co u 03 CD © CO 0 45 © co tH 03 CD © O 45 © CO Class I. Order 1. Miasmatic: 3 1 1 7 1 7 1 63 14 6 1 8 3 8 1 1 2 1 11 2 1 4 1 43 7 2 3 7 1 ?, 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 Fever, typhoid 1 3 1 2 1 4 3 1 3 1 Order 2. Enthetic: Order 3. Dietic: 5 1 25 7 5 1 5 1 3 4 1 1 1 14 2 1 Class II. Order 1. Diathetic: Rheumatoid arthritis Order 2. Tubercular: Phthisis pulmonalis 38 7 1 2 2 1 5 4 1 3 A 7 9 20 8 3 1 Scrofula 9! 2 Class III. Order L Nervous system: 1 Convulsions, infantile 3 2 5 1 1 1 1 6 1 1 3 1 20 2 1 2 5 2 1 12 2 1 5 4 3 1 3 1 1 Meningitis 1 1 1 1 3 1 Order2. Circulatory: 1 1 1 Order 3. Respiratory: Bronchitis, acute 5 1 2 1 1 2 2 1 Bronchitis, chronic 1 1 Lungs, congestion of 1 1 1 9 1 1 7 1 1 1 1 Pneumonia 23 5 1 1 2 1 6 6 1 3 6 6 5 k a Order 4. Digestive system: ■Rowels, rnflawirifttioii of T T 1 1 1 Class IV. Order 1. Children: Birth, premature and stillborn Order 2. Women: Childbirth 1 1 Peritonitis, puerperal 1 20 Order 3. Nutrition: Atrophy, inanition, marasmus 8 7 12 2 8 Asthenia and debility Class V. Violent deaths: Fall 9 ' 2 3 ?, 1 1 ,1 Order 1. Casualties: Drowning 1 1 3 1 30 1 1 Scald 1 .. 8 , . 1 64', "5 *4 Asphyxiation and suffocation 1 2 1 3 1 Order2. Suicide: By pistol-shot "wound in head Class VI. Unclassified, unascertained 34 29 16 1 1 3 9 2 Total 1 319: 151 168' 93 70 15 20 34 33 1 31 16 7 1 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 225 Population, births, deaths, and death rate at St. Paul Island for seventeen years—1872 to 1888, inclusive. 1872 < 1873. 1874. 1875. 1876. 18771 1878. 1879. 1880. 1881. 1882. 1883. 1884. 1885. 1886 1887. 1888 < Tear. Adults. 5 to 17 Under 5 a 45 -rH Inhabit years. years. § •P - P CO ants. O m CO CO CO VI CD • -H 45 CO CD CD CD CD "H Pi . CD CO CD r—4 r-l c3 a CD ft CO CD i—( c3 c3 a CD ft CO CD i—t 03 rH 03 a CD ft rO^ri a 0 1 r-l 03 c3 45 O 1 co m 45 a ffl ,P 45 c3 CD ft CO CD 1 | rH C3 a CD ft 67 65 30 31 9 16 58 218 10 10 106 112 72 67 23 36 6 13 61 217 4 15 101 116 77 68 22 36 8 16 79 227 14 10 107 120 83 73 20 37 11 20 68 244 12 9 114 130 79 80 25 33 16 22 73 255 21 17 120 135 81 85 23 30 16 26 80 261 13 18 120 141 75 86 25 33 18 25 81 262 1.9 21 118 144 82 80 86 88 22 20 45 36 24 18 25 37 86 86 284 279 19 21 18 20 128 118 156 161 78 88 22 37 25 35 82 285 20 17 125 160 62 76 21 38 18 21 77 236 12 50 101 135 62 76 20 44 17 11 71 230 19 26 99 131 60 75 24 47 13 18 71 237 16 12 97 140 58 76 27 47 15 14 73 237 14 14 100 137 58 76 24 42 17 20 67 237 14 14 99 138 54 79 18 34 15 19 64 219 8 21 87 132 48 76 23 37 17 22 65 223 12 27 88 135 1 Deaths. co CD % CO CD •a a CD ft Births. CO CD I 10 6 29 13 4 5 5 11 15 4 6 7 4 11 12 12 9 10 11 21 13 8 9 9 10 12 4 1 5 4 10 6 7 10 9 10 8 11 | 8 4 2 6 CQ CD a a CD ft 6 3 9 8 11 7 12 9 12 10 4 8 12 6 10 u CD Pi »§ rP© ■*>rH 03 CD I 48.07 69.12 44.05 36.88 66.66 68.96 80.15 63.38 71.68 59.64 211.86 113. 04 50. 63 59.07 59.07 95.89 121.07 a The census was taken on the 31st of December for each year. 6 The census for 1877 was taken from actual count, taken from house to house, and verified by the church records. cThe census for 1888 was carefully taken by Treasury Agent Hon. J. P. Manchester, and verified by the church and Alaska Commercial Company's records. Note.—The apparent discrepancies of population of any one year, as compared with the population, births, and deaths of the preceding year, are to be explained by the fact of the constant annual change caused by the absence of St. Paul residents visiting other places, visitors arriving here from other islands, etc.; as, for example, in 1887 the population was 219, with 8 births and 21 deaths, leaving 17 to be accounted for among the population of 223 souls in 1888. The explanation is that 4 St. George men died here and were counted in the St. Paul mortality; 5 persons moved from St. George to St. Paul; 7 absentees, as visitors to other places, returned, and* 1 woman removed here from St. Michaels, making a total of 17. if Inclosures with Goff's Annual Report for 1889. Island of St. George, August 8,1889. This is to certify that 14,978 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamship St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, commanding. Joseph Murray, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, August 11,1889. This is to certify that 85,022 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, M. C. Erskine, commanding. Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent. Inclosure with Goff's Annual Report for 1889; Report of Assistant Agent A. P. Loud. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, May 31, 1889. Sir: I have the honor to submit for your information the following report of affairs on this island. Since the departure of the steamer St. Paul, on August 9, 1888, almost a continuation of cold, stormy weather, with large quantities of snow, has prevailed. The first drift ice from the north arrived at this island on January 29, 1889, and con- H. Doc. 92 15 226 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. turned with us, excepting slight intervals, until its final departure on April 26, 1889. The census taken January 1, 1889, gives a native population of 96 (males 41 and females 55) marriages for the year 1888, 2 \ births, 5; deaths, 18. During the winter the health of the people has been generally good. We have had three visitors from Unalaska. One schooner was seen at two different times off Zapadnie, November 13 and 18, 1888. A landing had been made, as we discovered fresh footprints on the ground, and the window of the native house was found broken. No serious damage was done, as there were but 12 or 15 seals ashore. The seals took their final departure from the island on November 20, 1888, and made their first landing May 5, 1889, on North Rookery. School commenced September 3, 1888, and closed April 27, 1889, a total of 128 days. Number of scholars on the register, 30; maximum attendance, 29; minimum, 15; average 26-3^L8-. The teacher, Mr. Alexander Lugerbil, can not be recommended as a very competent man for the position, because it is my opinion he is deficient in the most necessary qualification, the faculty to interest the attention of the children, his apparent carelessness and persistent negligence. In addition, the opposition of the Greek Church to an American school here prevented* any progress during the term just closed. I very respectfully recommend that in the future no teacher be employed to teach the school who speaks the native tongue. I allowed the children a vacation of two weeks at Christmas and a day whenever it happened to be a national holiday, but I have not permitted the Greek or any other church to interfere so far as my power could go to prevent it. The general behavior and conduct of the natives has been all that could be desired. Only once have I had to punish any of them for bad conduct. A box of medical stores landed at Zapadnie from the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner Pearl was broken open and the contents taken out and the greater portion drunk by Peter Oustigoff, Zachar Oustigoff", and Peter Rezanzoff. I gave Zachar and Peter Oustigoff each fourteen days extra watching at Zapadnie and five days each working on the road leading from the village to the cemetery. Pete Rezanzoff lied, in addition to stealing, and I gave him ten days' work on the road. Alexa Oustigoff, five days' work on the road. The most kind and friendly relations exist between the Government officer and the Alaska Commercial Company's agent and employees. I have no hesitation in saying that the rules and regulations of the Greek Church on this island are detrimental to the social and mental advancement of the people toward civilization. The natives here built and equipped the church and they pay the priest and support his family. And yet they are compelled to send annually large sums to the Greek Church consistory at San Francisco, which, under the circumstances, is little less than robbery. The rule which compels people to leave a close and warm house in the early morning of a cold and windy day to stand in a church that has neither a fire nor any means to heat it should be altered if possible, for it is the cause of more colds and coughs and sickness here than all other things combined. The marriage law of the church becomes an absurdity when enforced on this island, and is the direct cause of much misery to young and old alike. The most distant relationship is sufficient cause to prevent a marriage, and as the relation of sponsor is coustrued by the church in the same light as blood relationship, it must lead to bad results on a lone island where the popula- ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 227 tion is less than 100. My own observation proves to me that this rule A. P. Loud, is the cause of a great deal of wrong and immorality. Yery respectfully, Hon. Charles J. Goff Assistant Treasury Agent. Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Inclosure with Goff's Annual Report for 1889; Report of Assistant Agent Manchester. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, June 1, 1889. Sir: I have the honor to submit for your information the following report of affairs on this island since the departure of the steamer St. Paul, August 15, 1888. I anticipated a very severe winter, and requested the adult males all to go out along the shore of the island and gather driftwood for winter fuel. After asking them several different times and they not going, I selected seven natives and ordered them to go October 12, 1888. They refused. I then called them to the Government house and explained to them the necessity of their having fuel j that there was but little on the island to sell and no doubt a hard winter ahead, and that they must obey the Government officers. They still refused. I fined them as follows: Martine Nederazoff, $15; Stepan Nederazoff, $15; Kerrick Tarakanoff, $20; Peter Tetoff, $20; Metrofan Shutyagin, $15. I then ordered them to go, and they obeyed, aud have always since then been willing and ready to obey. The above amount of fines ($85) was deposited with the Alaska Commercial Company and credited to tbe general fund. After this all the male adults gathered a large amount of wood, and it was a great help to them. As it came to pass it was the most severe winter in twenty years. The winter set in early and continued until the middle of May. February 8 the thermometer was 13° below zero. The island was surrounded by ice from the north from January 4 until May 10. October 29 we had a hard gale from the west and southwest that carried away the Alaska Commercial Company's wharf and, on account of the heavy seas, destroyed a great number of pup seals, which is always the case, more or less, before the seals make their final departure in the fall. School was taught during the months of September, October, November, December, January, February, March, and April, less the usual holidays. The last of October and November the natives, old and young, all had the measles, which, of course, interfered with the school. The average daily attendance was 51.98; the per cent of attendance was 95190; the number of scholars on the roll, 56. School was taught by Mr. C. C. Mead, and I consider him a good teacher. There were no deaths on account of the measles, as they were carefully treated by the company's physician, Dr. W. S. Hereford. The general health of the natives since January 1, 1889, compared with the same time last year, has been better up to date, August 1, 1889. The morning of October 23 I was notified that Pemen Kuznitzoff, a native, aged 36 years, was found dead in the house occupied by him. I requested the company's physician, Dr. W. S. Hereford, to go with me. We found him lying on the floor in a pool of blood, with a large Remington pistol, six-loader, containing five loaded shells and one empty, by his side, also a common- sized pocket knife, open, on the floor near him. The doctor at once made 228 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. an examination. (Find copy of his certificate inclosed.) I summoned a jury of six natives, and after a thorough investigation they certified that it was a case of suicide. (Copy of their certificate inclosed.) I concurred. January 7, 1889, Aggie Kushin, a native, and his wife got drunk from drinking quas, and he assaulted his wife. I fined him $10 and put him in irons for two days and cut off his supplies of sweetmeats for about two months. The fine was placed to the credit of the general fund. I think it is the duty of the United States Government to furnish the Government officers on each island one good surfboat. The Government officers are called upon to use boats quite often, and having none are obliged to borrow of the Alaska Commercial Company. They are always very kind and obliging; still, the Government should not use up their property. The first bull seal made his appearance at this island May 3, 1889. On January 1.1889, the census of St. Paul Island was as follows: Native population, 223; number of families, 65. Males: Adults, 48; from 5 to 17 years, 23; under 5 years, 17. Females: Adults, 76; from 5 to 17 years, 37; under 5 years, 22. Females in excess of males, 47. Marriages in 1888, 2; births, 12; deaths, 27. We had no communication with the outside world from the departure of the Alaska Commercial Company's schooner Pearl, October 2,1888, until the arrival of the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer St. Paul, June 1,1889. The usual watch of natives was continued while there were any seals on the island. No pirate schooners around the island in sight during the time and up to date, June 1, 1889. Respectfully, yours, J. P. Manchester, Assistant Treasury Agent. Hon. C. J. Goff, Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Special Agent Goff; Supplemental Report for 1889. 23, 1889. Clarksburg, W. Ya., December Sir : I have the honor to submit the following supplementary to my annual report of the operations and conditions of the Seal Islands, Alaska, for the season of 1889. On September 22 the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Dora arrived at St. Paul Island, having on board Mr.# S. R. Nettleton, your recent appointee as agent to the seal fisheries, who is now in charge of the island, I having returned to my home for the winter, as per instructions bearing date August 10,1889. After the closing of the sealing season, which was July 31,1 visited the rookeries daily and made a careful survey of them to ascertain as near as possible the condition of the present seal life with the past. From the first I was forcibly impressed with the decrease in number, taking as a guide the report of my predecessor, the Hon. George R. Tingle; but thinking 1 might be mistaken, and not wishing to sound a needless alarm to the Department, I ventured the suggestion of taking 60,000 seals as the maximum for the first five years of the new lease, the number to be increased or decreased as the Secretary may deem advisable. I now, without hesitation, after a more careful observation of the entire situation, think that my suggestion of 60,000 was too high, and would respectfully insert instead 50^000 as the maximum, the number to be increased ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 229 or decreased as the Secretary may see proper, the number to be proportioned between the two islands as the agent in charge may adjudge best for the protection of the rookeries. I regard it absolutely essential, for the future of the rookeries, that prompt action be taken by the Department for the suppression of illegal killing of seals in Bering Sea, and that the utmost economy be observed in taking the seals allowed by law. There should be no killing after July 20. After that date the cows have a tendency to haul out with the young bulls, and the natives in making drives from the rookeries to the killing grounds find it impossible to separate the males from the females. Consequently many small pups and cows are driven with the herd, which necessarily results in the loss of many pups and great injury to the cows. Under the existing law or regulations the natives are allowed to. kill pups just before they take their departure from the island for the winter, which is in November, for their winter's supply of meat, and under the pretense that they need the skins (which they get) for clothing. This is without doubt a useless slaughter of young seals, amounting to about 5,000 annually, and should receive the firmest condemnation by the Department, first, because the rookeries will not admit of this wanton destruction without leaving its impress upon their now weak condition; second, the winter's supply of meat should be secured during the killing season by erecting cold storage houses and placing therein as many thousand carcasses as are needed, not only for the islands, but for the natives, if necessary, along the Aleutian Islands, or the supply secured by canning the meat, either of which would be by far cheaper for the Government than the destruction of 5,000 young seals annually, which is equivalent to $15,000 per annum; third, the skins are never made into clothing through necessity, and are too small to be used in covering their boats. The natives purchase their clothing from the Alaska Commercial Company at reasonable prices. The skins are made into blankets, coats, caps, gloves, etc., and traded to passing vessels for trinkets and useless articles, and are a source through which they look for intoxicants. They will refuse to sell their blankets to the company for cash, preferring to run the chance of smuggling them off for whisky. Under these existing regulations, the natives living along the Aleutian chain have conceived the idea that they also are allowed to kill seals for food, and many thousands are killed by them as they pass through the passes to and from the islands, only for the skins, which are sold and traded for whisky to poaching vessels. The inclosed statistics* of seals killed illegally was compiled by Dr. H. H. Mclntyre, general manager of the Alaska Commercial Company, and upon my request he furnished me with a copy. I regard them as being of vital importance to the Department, as they are substantially correct. In conclusion, I desire to ask upon what has a Treasury agent to base his actions; are there any existing laws that give to him the authority for issuing orders and controlling the natives, as in the past? This is getting to be a serious question, and sooner or later a conflict of authority will arise which will result disastrously. Respectfully submitted. Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury. * Missing. 230 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. • 1890. Special Agent Goff; Annual Report for 1890. St. Paul Island, Alaska,,July 31,1890. Sir: I herewith respectfully submit my annual report of the condition of the seal fisheries for the year 1890; also such tabulated statements and communications as should be in the hands of the Department: A. My annual written report, with the following inclosures: B. Mr. Joseph Murray, First Assistant Treasury Agent's report, St. George Island. C. Mr. A. W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent's report, St. George Island. D. Statement St. Paul Island daily killing. E. Statement St. George Island daily killing. F. Statement of fur seals killed for food upon St. Paul and St. George islands, and disposition of the skins. G. Tahle comparing daily killing of 1889 with that of 1890; also giving daily weather report for each year. H. Tahle showing the beginning of each sealing season on the islands from 1870 to 1890, inclusive, and number of fur seals accepted hy the lessees up to July 20 of each year. I. Showing the distribution of natives' earnings for season of 1889 and 1890; also amount transferred by the Alaska Commercial Company to the North American Commercial Company, and the amount to the credit of the natives in the hands of the North American Commercial Company August 1, 1890, and my instructions to the representatives of the Alaska and North American Commercial Companies. J. Account current, St. Paul Island. K. Account current, St. George Island. L. Census, St. Paul Island. M. Census, St. George Island.' N. Distribution of natives' earnings, St. George Island. O. Steamer Arago, Capt. H. C Thomas, receipts for season's catch of fur seals, 1890. P. Mr. George R. Tingle's communication protesting against the order stopping the killing of seals, July 20, and my reply. Q. Table showing the number of seals killed by the Alaska Commercial Company yearly for the twenty years of their lease. The distribution of the natives' earnings for the same period, etc., for the islands of St. Paul and St. George. Respectfully, yours, Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent, in Charge the Seal Fisheries. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury. A.—Annual Report of Special Agent Goff, 1890. St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 31,1890. Sir : Pursuant to instructions, I sailed from San Francisco on May 6, on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Arago, accompanied by Mr. A. W. Lavender, assistant Treasury agent, who, after his arrival, was stationed upon St. George Island to assist Mr. Joseph Murray in the discharge of his duties during the killing season, and who will have charge of the island during the coming winter. We arrived at Unalaska May 18, and on the 20th Mr. George R. Chambers, Mr. Rudolph Newmann, and myself sailed on the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Dora for the seal islands, to take an inventory of the property on St. George and St. Paul belonging to the Alaska Commercial Company, according to an agreement signed by and between ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 231 the Alaska Commercial Company and the North American Commercial Company, March 12, 1890. The Alaska Commercial Company was represented by Mr. Newmann, and the North American Commercial Company by Mr. Tingle, and I acted as umpire, as per your instructions, bearing date April 16, 1890. We arrived at St. Paul Island May 21, and immediately commenced to take stock. After several days'labor the business was well in hand, and we proceeded to St. George Island per steamer Dora, and made a complete inspection and inventory of all the property there belonging to the Alaska Commercial Company. After our return to St. Paul there was one difference referred to me and satisfactorily adjusted, then the entire business was settled by the representatives of their respective companies. The following property was transferred to the North American Commercial Company: 63 native houses on St. Paul and 19 upon St. George, and upon both islands all buildings and other property belonging to the Alaska Commercial Company. Upon St. Paul Island the sum of $9,213.58, belonging to the natives and deposited with the Alaska Commercial Company, was passed to the North American Commercial Company, with the consent of the natives, and credited to their pass book accounts. Also several special individual deposits amounting to $12,117.02, drawing interest at 4 per cent per annum, leaving in the hands of the Alaska Commercial Company $3,404.99 to the credit of Mrs. Alexander Milevedoff, who did not wish to make a change. On St. George $5,391.17 was transferred to the North American Commercial Company, but from this amount the sum of $1,700, belonging to the priest, must be deducted, leaving a balance of $3,600.87 to the credit of the natives. The transfer was made and dated May 24,1890. The past winter was unusually mild, the sanitary condition of the village was good, the people were blessed with good health, and they passed the time pleasantly. They were under the combined charge of Mr. S. R. Nettleton, assistant Treasury agent; Dr. O. A. Lutz, resident physician, and Mr. J. C. Redpath, resident agent for the Alaska Commercial Company. With the spring came that dreaded disease of this people, pneumonia, which caused the death of 3 sealers; other ailments prevalent among them carried off seven others (women and children), making a total of 10 deaths since January 1,1890, the date of the census, leaving at present a total population of 208. The population of St. Paul Island in 1872—as far back as the official records go—was 218; arrivals since then, 76. Had it not been for this influx of immigration the native population would have been about extinct. The established rule of thoroughly cleaning the village in the spring and fall presents a marked contrast to the condition of the x>lace a few years ago. All along the greensward in front of the dwellings, which was then a depository for filth and offal, the children romp and play. Gradually, too, the people are becoming more reconciled to cleaner methods in their dwellings, and many of them take great pride in their personal appearance and cleanliness. The school on this island was taught by Simon Milevedoff, a native, who was educated in San Francisco. It was opened on September 1,1889, and closed May 1,1890. Total number of school days, 172; number taught, 120. Mr. Milevedoff was energetic and untiring in his efforts to advance the pupils, but there is very little interest taken by them in English-speaking schools, so that there was but little progress made. mmmammmmmm-wmmmm 232 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The North American Commercial Company have commenced repairing the native dwelling houses, and so far have complied with all the requirements of their lease. The United States cutter Bear, Capt. M. A. Healy, anchored off this island June 20, and left on the same day. Captain Healy reported "no pirates in Bering Sea." The Bear delivered to this island the boat and fixtures complete asked for by me from the Department. The Rev. Sheldon Jackson was a passenger on board the Bear, and came ashore and inspected the village and schoolhouse. He received a copy of the school report, and was well pleased with the condition in which he.found things. On July 31, in company with Mr. Tingle and Professor Elliott, I visited Otter Island, and found, to my surprise, that there were seals hauled out, as was usual in the past. The United States cutter Richard Rush, Capt. W. C. Coulson, arrived here July 17, and reported "no pirates in Bering Sea." Prof. H. W. Elliott, your recent appointee as Treasury agent, has spent the season here, dividing his time between the two islands, and giving his entire attention to the state of the rookeries and the methods used at present in driving and killing the seals; and his report will, no doubt, be of the utmost importance and of great value to the Department. Mr. William Palmer, a representative of the Smithsonian Institution, has, by your permission, spent the season on St. Paul collecting specimens of various birds and animals, and his incessant labors have been abundantly rewarded. The merchantable seal skins in the salt houses on St. Paul and St. George islands, taken from the seals killed for food for the natives during the winter of 1889-90, will be shipped, as per instructions bearing date May 5, per United States cutter Richard Rush, Capt. W. C. Coulson commanding, which will leave here early in September, consigned to the collector of customs, San Francisco. The matter will be reported directly to you by Mr. Joseph Murray, who has charge of St. Paul Island for the coming winter. The accompanying communications from the representatives of the Alaska Commercial Company and the North American Commercial Company will fully explain my actions in the matter. The total number of fur seals killed and accepted upon this island by the lessees was 16,830, and the total amount earned by the natives and distributed to them was $6,783.30. Your instructions to me upon this subject of dividing the earnings of the natives and looking after their welfare financially I endeavored to follow, but was prevented from doing so by Mr. George R. Tingle, general manager for the lessees. His reasons for so doing are inclosed. 1 regret that I am compelled to report that the seals are rapidly diminishing in numbers, and to such an alarming extent that to check the decrease will require, in my opinion, the most careful consideration of the Department. To have a correct understanding of how the annual catch is taken it will be necessary to bear in mind the following facts: First, by the acts of Congress governing the seal fisheries, the season opens June 1 and closes July 31, unless otherwise restricted by the Secretary of the Treasury; second, the bull seals arrive at the islands between May 1 and June 10, and the cows between June 10 and July 10; third, the large young seals whose skins are merchantable commence coming about the middle of May, gradually increasing in numbers as the cows appear, and with the large young seals comes a small portion of the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 233 pups born the summer before; but the greatest majority of the yearlings put in their appearance in the month of July. Now, in opening the season it is customary to secure all the two-year-olds and upward possible before the yearlings begin to fill up the hauling grounds and mix with the killable seals. By so doing it is much easier to do the work, and the yearlings are not tortured by being driven and redriven to the killing grounds. Heretofore it was seldom that more than 15 per cent of all the seals driven the latter part of June and the first few days in July were too small to be killed, but this season the case was reversed and in many instances 80 to 85 per cent were turned away. The accompanying percentage examples will show the disposition of this year's drive. The first killing of fur seals by the lessees was on June 6, and the scarcity of killable seals was apparent to all. The season closed July 20, and the drives in July show a decided increase in the percentages of small seals turned away and a decrease in the killabies over the drives of June, demonstrating conclusively that there are but few killable seals arriving and that the large part of those returning to the islands were the pups of last year. The average daily killing for the season was 400, or a daily average of 522 including only the days worked. In 1889 the average daily killing, from June 1 to July 20, inclusive, was 1,516, or a daily average of 1,974 including only the days worked. With this undeniable decrease in merchantable seals, and knowing the impoverished conditions of the rookeries and hauling grounds, andbeliev- ing it to be inimical to the best interests of the Government to extend the time for killing beyond July 20,1 adhered to the letter and spirit of your instructions to me and closed the killing season July 20, against the bitter protestations of Mr. George R. Tingle, general manager for the lessees. His communication to me upon the subject and my reply are inclosed. Had there been a reasonable probability of the lessees securing their quota of 60,000 seals I should have deemed it my duty to extend the time for killing to July 31. The killing of June 6, the first of the season, was from the Reef Rookery, with drive of about 700 seals; total killed, 116, 881 per cent being turned away as too small. On June 11 the drive was from the Reef Rookery, about 1,000; total killed, 574,42£ per cent turned away. On June 24 the drive was from the Reef Rookery and Zoltoi hauling grounds combined and about 1,417 were driven; total killed, 206, 85£ per cent turned away. This exhausted Zoltoi hauling grounds for a period of twenty-one days, and it was not available until July 18, when again, in connection with the Reef Rookery, the last drive was made and about 3,953 seals were driven; 556 were killed and 86 per cent turned away. The seals turned away from the several drives invariably returned to the hauling grounds and rookery, from which they were driven, only to be redriven to the killing field and culled of the few killables that chanced to join them upon their return to the sea from each drive. By reference to the table marked D, showing the daily killing for this year, and also comparing the same with that of last year, you will see that from all of the drives the same percentages were turned away as from those I have cited. We opened the season by a drive from the Reef Rookery and turned away 83£ per cent, when we should have turned away about 15 per cent of the seals driven; and we closed the season by turning away 86 per cent, a fact which proves to every impartial mind that we were redriving the yearlings, and, considering the 234 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. number of skins obtained, that it was impossible to secure the number allowed by the lease; that we were merely torturing the young seals, injuring the future life and vitality of the breeding rookeries, to the detriment of the lessees, natives, and the Government. On Sunday, July 20, all the rookeries representing any male seals were driven from English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukannoii, Kee; tavia, and Rocky Point, and about 4,620 seals were brought to the killing field. Seven hundred and eighty were killed, and 83 per cent were turned away. On the same day, at Northeast Point, they killed 466, which, added to those taken at the other rookeries, make a grand total of 1,246. This and the killing on the 19th are the only instances recorded during the season when the daily killing reached 1,000. Comparing the killing with those of the same dates last year, we find that on July 19, 1889, from Southwest Bay hauling ground alone, 1,987 were killed, and on July 20, 1889, from the Eeef Rookery and Zoltoi hauling grounds, 1,913 were killed, and never were there such percentages turned away during the entire season, nor in any previous season, to my knowledge, as in that of 1890. It is true, however, that the Alaska Commercial Company could and did take smaller seals last season than the present lessees can take, because of the differences in the tax paid by them; yet there have been no 2-year olds of an average size turned away this season. They were all immediately clubbed to swell the season's catch, which was far below the number allowed for this year—a condition of affairs that will convey to the Department, in language far more convincing than mine, the fact that the seals are not here. The North American Commercial Company's agent, Mr. George R. Tingle, used every effort to have the drives made so as to have no unnecessary loss of seal life, and he would have made the season a most successful one for the company if the seals had returned to the rookeries as in the past. It is evident that the many evils preying upon seal life—the killing of the-seals in the Pacific Ocean, along the Aleutian Islands, and as they come through the passes to the Bering Sea, by the pirates in these waters, and the indiscriminate slaughter upon the islands regardless of the future life of the breeding rookeries—have at last, with their combined destructive power, reduced these rookeries to their present impoverished condition, and to such an unequal distribution of ages and sex that it is but a question of a few years, unless immediately attended to, before the seal family of the Pribilof group of islands will be a thing of the past. Notwithstanding the fact that the seals were looked upon as inexhaustible and were officially reported to be increasing as late as 1888, the time has suddenly come when experiment and imagination must cease and the truth be told. Absolute protection is the only safeguard for the rookeries, and the only step to be taken with safety. The seal meat necessary for the native's food is all that should be killed, under existing circumstances. Much can be written on this subject, many theories may be advanced, all of which we have had for the past twenty years, to the evident loss of seal life; but the facts presented in the accompanying tables demonstrate with mathematical certainty the fearful decrease of the seals. And here I will say I heartily concur with my worthy predecessor, Mr. George R. Tingle, who in his official report of 1887 used the following language: The Department can not place too high an estimate on the value of this seal property, and the Government, I am sure, will not yield to any demands which would make it possible to accomplish the destruction of her seal rookeries and seal life, which under judicious management and protection by law may be perpetuated indefinitely. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 235 There is but one authority upon seal life, especially the seals of the Pribilof Islands, and this is the work of Prof. Henry W. Elliott, who surveyed these rookeries in 1872 and 1874, and his work was verified by Lieutenant Maynard and, I. am satisfied, was as near correct when made as was possible for man to chronicle; but to-day there is a marked contrast in the conditions of now and then. On page 54 of the Professor's monograph you will find he places the number of seals upon Northeast Point Rookery at 1,200,000. Standing on a prominent elevation known as Hutchinson's Hill in the month of July, and facing the north, I had before me a sea margin of over 2 miles; turning, and facing the south, I had a sea margin of over 1 mile. I could view entire this once famous rookery, and it was simply impossible to realize that there was ever such a moving mass of living animals as Irolessor Elliott describes. His estimate seems incredible, yet his writings have never been refuted. To-day there is not to be seen over 250,000 seals, of all ages and sexes. To the extreme southwest of the island is the Reef Rookery, reported to have (by Professor-Elliott) 301,000 seals in 1874. It has not over 100,000 seals to-day. On Garbotch, the adjoining rookery, where the Professor says he stood on Old John Rock and saw "10,000 fighting bulls," I can stand and count every bull in sight. This rookery, with the reef, is an extended point running with the sea, sloping east and west, with a large surface of table-land in the center. This was once a parading or playing ground when the seals met, as they came from the east and west side. It was the resort of over 200,000 seals; now the resting place for a few cows and pups and now and then a worn-out sleeping bull. The number now visiting these rookeries (the Reef and Gar- botch) find ample room on the two slopes without pushing back on the plateau above. WBk ^ , ' , -. Zoltoi sands, once a favorite hauling ground for the bachelor seals, from where thousands have been driven and killed for their skins, is entirely deserted, only, however, a short time in advance of all the hauling grounds and rookeries, if immediate steps are not taken by the Department to name and protect these rookeries. Lukannon, a rookery on the east side of the island, between the Reef of Polovama, the most picturesque seal grounds of them all, where the seals were wont to haul up on the cliffs, and in the interstices between the rugged rocks for over half a mile on the sea frontage, a most inviting home for this mysterious pelagic family, where, in connection with Keetavia Rookery, with the same sea range, there were 335,000 of these animals, presents ta present, by the most careful estimate, not over 75,000 seals. Polavania Rookery, with 4,000 feet of sea margin, with a seal life of 300 000 in 1874; Tolstoi Rookery, with 3,000 feet of sea margin, with 275'000 seals in 1874, and Zapadnia, with 5,880 feet of sea margin, with 44l'oOO seals in 1874, all present a most deplorable condition, and do not'show over one-eighth of the seals as reported by Professor Elliott. With these facts in view I am convinced there will be a greater decrease in seal life next year than this; for it will not be in the power of human ingenuity to check the rapid advance toward extermination now going on in that length of time. In conclusion, I respectfully suggest that there be no killing or fur seals for their skins on these islands, nor in the waters of Bering bea, for an indefinite number of years, to be named by the Secretary of the Treasury, and let nature take her course in replenishing the rookeries, and that the Department take the entire matter of protecting these rookeries into its immediate supervision, for I regard any other system of protection dangerous to the future of all interested. The limited 236 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. number of seals killed this season by lessees will undoubtedly leave the majority of the natives in absolute want, and their condition will appeal to the Department for aid. The amount distributed to the natives upon the islands of St. Paul and St. George was $6,783.30 and $1,644.80, respectively. This will not be sufficient to provide them with the necessaries of life until the steamers return in the spring, especially so with the natives of the St. George Island. With this fact in view, I made the following arrangements with the North American Commercial Company, through their manager, Mr. George R. Tingle; the North American Commercial Company's resident agent, together with the Treasury agent in charge, are to adjudge what supplies are positively needed for the support and maintenance of the natives, the company receiving from the Treasury agent a certificate that such supplies have been furnished, but said certificate to be merely accepted as a voucher of correctness; the matter to be adjusted in the future with the Department by the North American Commercial Company. The Department will have to make some provision for the support and maintenance of these people, as their mode of making a living has been destroyed for the present, and the future is only what the charity of the Government will make it. There is utterly nothing here upon which they can depend for a livelihood until the much wished-for return of seals takes place, an event too far in the future to give even a promise of better times to these unfortunate people. Respectfully, yours, Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent, in Charge of the Seal Islands. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury. B.—Inclosure with Goff's Annual Report for 1890; report of Assistant Agent Joseph Murray. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, Alaska, July 31, 1890. Sir : I have the honor to report that the health of the natives here has been unusually good during the past year, and is at present far better than any other time in many years. There is not a case of sickness on the island, excepting those of long standing due to scrofula and other chronic diseases. With one single exception all the workmen are well and hearty. We had a full term of school from September until May, and under the care of the teacher, Dr. L. A. Noyes, it was as well conducted as any public school of its size in the country; but, after all, I find the children made next to no progress in acquiring the simplest rudiments of our language. It seems incredible, but it is true, that young men and women who have been to school here for seven years do not know how to speak or read a sentence of the English language. Looking over their shoulders as they write in their copy books, and observing the ease with which they follow the headlines, one would think they were making rapid progress, but ask any one of them to read what he or she has been writing and they can not do it. It was long suspected that the older people secretly influenced the children against American schools and encouraged them to learn the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 237 Russian language in preference to any other, but I find that they are just as ignorant of Russian as they are of English, and as backward in learning it. There has been one day of each week devoted to the Russian school, which, in my opinion, has a bad effect upon the children in their attempt to master the English tongue, and I therefore respectfully suggest that the practice of teaching Russian to the school children be abolished. After a year's residence here I am able to say that the people as a whole have conducted themselves very wTell indeed; not a loud, vulgar, or angry word has been spoken in my hearing or to my knowledge by a native man or woman on the island of St. George. Not one case of drunkenness or drinking, nor anything approaching to it, has come to my knowledge. A case of wrongdoing by two white men, employees of the Alaska Commercial Company, compelled me and my assistant, Mr. A. P. Loud, to complain to Mr. Sloss, the president of the company, who immediately removed and discharged the offenders. Excepting one instance, there has not been one word of complaint from any quarter. The men who wintered in the service of the Alaska Commercial Company are all good and worthy, especially the agent, Mr. Daniel Webster, and the physician, Dr. L. A. Noyes. I take pleasure in thus testifying to their worth, for I have found them to be upright and honorable at all times in all their transactions with the natives, with whom they are deservedly very popular. I have endeavored to promote a more perfect sanitary system in the village, and I find it is not so hard, as was expected, to prevail on the people to adopt better methods, if one will be patient and treat them kindly. It will be an impossibility, however, to do much toward establishing a sanitary system of value until we have better water and a more abundant supply than is possible under existing conditions. The present supply of water for domestic purposes is obtained from a well into which the drainage of half the village finds its way, and the wonder to me is that the people are not constantly sick while they have to use such drinking water. There is a nice fresh-water lake within 2,000 feet of the village, and fully 50 feet higher, from which a constant and never-failing supply of good water can be taken if you can have 2,000 feet of 2-inch pipe and the necessary hydrant and fixings sent here. A drain is the next essential to success, and one of 700 feet in length can be dug easily, and will suffice to carry all the dirt and offal of the village into the sea. It will be necessary to have 700 feet of 12-inch drainpipe. The total absence of water-closets on this island is a disgrace, and is beyond all question the cause of more immorality, disease, and death than all other things combined. That such a state of things has been allowed to exist for twenty years is a disgrace to our civilization, and I do hope you will insist on the present lessees or on the Department to have it altered at once. The subject is so abominable I dare not write it in a public report. It is absolutely necessary, too, that at least six of the dwelling houses be enlarged, as the families now occupying them have not room to live as human beings should. It may be true, as many assert, that under Russian rule the natives were not housed one-half so well as they are now; but such arguments are of no avail in a country like ours. When a family of seven persons, of all ages and sexes, are packed in a sleep- 238 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. ing apartment measuring 10 by 10 feet, they are not treated right, nor does our Government intend to have such things existiug where it has jurisdiction. The dwelling houses are badly in need of repairs, and the attention of the local agent, Mr. Webster, has been called to their condition, but as he is to leave the island this year it may be necessary for you to mention it to the general manager of the North American Commercial Company. Mr. A. W. Lavender arrived on May 26 and immediately entered upon his duties. On July 12 the watchman reported a schooner in sight off Zapadnie, and I armed the men and sent a squad to exposed rookeries, Mr. Lavender going to Zapadnie with four men, the second chief anct four men to East Rookery, and I went with four men to Starry Ateel. We all watched until next morning without seeing an enemy. To facilitate the guarding of the rookeries it is necessary to have some sorb of shelter for the watchmen; a small hut on each of the three rookeries would be sufficient, and they need not cost over $50 each. On Sunday, May 11, the schooner Alton (Captain Worth), of San Francisco, touched at the island and the captain came ashore and informed us of the new lease and new company. On learning of the change the natives held several meetings, and afterwards came to the Government house to have my advice as to how they should act in case any material changes were made in their mode of working, government, or the amount of their pay. The meeting was adjourned from time to time until they had thoroughly discussed the most important questions raised, and at the last meeting, held May 23, they unanimously declared that it was their firm belief and honest opinion that the seals had diminished and would continue to diminish from year to year, because all the male seals had been slaughtered without allowing any to grow to maturity for use on the breeding ground. I made a note of the suggestion on the journal that day, and I am now fully convinced by personal observation that it is only too true, and that the natives were correct in every particular. In 1889 the full quota of 15,000 skins was obtained here, but I know now (what I did not understand then) that in order to fill the quota they lowered the standard toward the close of the season and killed hundreds of yearling seals, and took a greater number of small skins than ever before. The first seals of this season appeared upon the hauling ground on April 26, and the first killing for food was on May 13. The killing season for skins opened on June 2, and they killed 71. 1 inclose a full statement of all the killings of the season, from June 2 to July 20, inclusive, and you will observe that the greatest number killed at one killing—excepting those of July 19 and 20—was only 394, although the driving and killing were under the immediate supervision of Mr. Webster, who is admitted to be the most experienced and most careful sealer on the islands. Until July 19 an attempt was made to keep to a standard of not less than 7-pound skins, but when it was apparent beyond question that there were no large young seals on the hauling ground, the standard was lowered and skins of 5 pounds were taken wherever found. It was thus that the last two killings were swelled to their present proportions. For the whole season we obtained a total of 4,112 skins, against a total of 10,138 on the same date last year. That the seals should have disappeared so rapidly since the report ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 239 of your predecessor in 1888 is so astounding that those who can not see the rookeries and hauling grounds for themselves may well be pardoned for doubting what is. I am sorry to say, only painful though it be to all who are interested, the whole truth must nevertheless be told, and that is that the seals have been steadily decreasing since 1880, and the days are passed and gone when they could be counted on the rookeries by the millions. I have carefully examined the rookeries and hauling grounds at Starry Ateel north and east, and I find somewhat less than half the ground covered when compared with former years. I accompanied the natives when they went to make a drive from East Rookery, and we walked along the beach from Little East to East Rookery without finding one seal till we came to the breeding grounds proper. Either Mr. Lavender or I was present at every killing made; we saw the numbers that we turned away, and we counted the skins of all that were killed, and we find that what is true of one rookery is true of them all—the seals are not on them. Now that the seals have disappeared the natives are very much alarmed, and they anxiously inquire what will the Government do for them in their destitution. They have earned during the present season $1,644.90, which, I need scarcely add, will be entirely inadequate to supply food and clothing for a year for a population of 90 people. 1 never knew a people so attached to a church as these poor creatures, and now they are in great tribulation because they have no means to contribute to its support, nor to*the support of the priest and his family. At one of their many meetings they requested me to write for them to the Russian-Greek Church Consistorv at San Francisco and appeal for aid for their priest and church until such times as the seal fisheries should recover and make them self-supporting. In justice to the priest, I may tell you that he was the first to say he should not have any share of the earnings of this season, and that he would not take any money from the people until times mended, and that he could afford to pay; otherwise he should apply to the consistory for a position in another locality. I have endeavored to impress upon them the fact that they are not to be abandoned to their fate; that the Government will not allow them to starve or suffer, but will take care of the people and of the rookeries until the rookeries are built up and fully replenished, when prosperity and happiness will return to the island once more. All of which is most respectfully submitted. Joseph Murray, First Assistant Agent, St. George Island. Hon. Charles J. Goff, Agent in charge of Seal Islands, Alaska. C.—Inclosure tvith Goff's Annual Report for 1890; Report of Assistant Agent A. W. Lavender. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, Bering Sea, July 26, 1890. Sir : I have the honor to make you the following report of this season's sealing by the North American Commercial Company, and to offer such recommendations as in my judgment should be enforced by the Government for the protection of these rookeries during the next six or seven years; also to report to you the condition of the natives and their houses, and to ask that such repairs to their houses as are 240 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. absolutely required be furnished as soon as possible; also to request of you, in your report to the Secretary of the Treasury, to ask for $350 for repairs to the Government house and such other articles as I shall mention in this report. In accordance with your letter of the 20th instant asking me to ship the 630 food skins on the United States cutter Rush, I will state that I have complied with the same and inclose you a receipt signed by the captain; a duplicate of the same I have in this office on file. I will also state there are 20 road skins here in the salt house. The killing of seals on this island was stopped on the 20th. A list of each number killed out of each drive I inclose also to you, and yon will see that at the last drive from North and Starry Ateel rookeries, and also from Zapadnie, that there was a larger number of seals killed than from any other drive. This, I will assure you, was not owing to the greater number of large seals being driven at this time, but to the standard weight of skins being reduced on that day from 7 to 5 pounds, and even less. The writer was surprised when he first visited the rookeries to find no young bull seals upon them. This looked strange to him and he began to look up the cause, and it occurred to him that by the constant driving of young male seals and the killing of all the 2, 3, 4, and 5 year olds there were no young bulls left to go on the rookeries, and without young blood the fur-seal industry will be something of the past in a very few years. The Government should take absolute control of these islands and permit no more seals to be killed than are needed by the natives for food for the next six or seven years, and then all the male seals driven should be killed, as it is my opinion that not over one-half ever go back upon the rookeries again. In this way there would be killed upon this island about 2,500 each year. These skins, sold in the market, would pay all the expenses of the island and furnish such supplies to the natives as to keep them from want, and they would be as well satisfied as they are now under the management of the North American Commercial Company. Without something of this kind being done the natives will soon have to move from these islands, for there will be nothing to keep them here. The North American Commercial Company has landed and turned over to this office 30 gross tons of coal for the use of the natives, and 10 barrels of salt salmon, and also state that there are 10 tons of coal in the coal shed for the Government house. Most all of the native houses need repairing; some need a new floor, others a new roof, and I would recommend that at least four of these houses be made larger by the addition of one more room. The Government or comjiany, whichever has charge of this island the next season, should send at least 10,000 feet of siding and 10,000 feet of flooring on the first steamer that comes up in the spring; also 35,000 shingles, and nails enough to do the work. The natives are in better health than they have been for the past year. I am not aware of there being a sick person on the island. Their sanitary condition is bad, and to each house there should be a small outbuilding which they could use for a closet. Such a thing seems to be unknown here. The repairs required by the Government house are as follows: The front platform needs rebuilding, and part of the roof needs shingling, and the whole roof to be painted; also the house needs painting and papering on the inside, and the fence repainting. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 241 The articles required for the use of this office, are as follows: One letter press and book, 1 bill file, 1 letter file, paper and pens, 1 carpet for Government house, 1 platform scales, 1 spring balance. Respectfully, yours, Albert W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent. Charles J. Goff, Esq., Treasury Agent, in Charge of Seal Islands. Inclosure with Goff's annual report for 1890; request for permission to kill seals for specimens. North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, July 1,1890. Sir : As per request of I. Liebes, esq., president North American Commercial Company, contained in his letter to me dated at San Francisco, June 9, 1890,1 hereby ask permission to kill and take for the use of said company for exhibition only, to be stuffed and set up, 5 specimen seals of different ages, including 1 cow and 1 young black pup. I am, very respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Chas. J. Goff, Esq., Treasury Agent in charge. (Note in red ink.)—Consent orally given and this letter copied in Journal, page 236, July 8,1890. D. Inclosures with Goff's annual report for 1890. -Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 20,1890. Rookery. • Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. Date. W) a 0 . O oo rVjS S> <S tJC oo <a rHl 6 >5 eSrO . 33 V % 0 "a. * M o " 72 Skins rejected. Accepted. Eejected.* Skins accepted. tH . •2 0 0 M^ w 4 1 35 2 4 2 3 1 12 3 1 20 i 00 3 cs 3 O rr} <p a.2 |3 oo 3 -rJ 0 o <D d •J—( Ph Second class. u <o • rr} <0 0 " HJ 0 O rrJ 0 H Total ber of killed 1890. May 28 119 115 1 115 115 539 181 315 16 167 270 78 339 438 290 96 515 176 414 202 263 164 114 374 225 205 3 1 1 4 1 35 115 115 539 182 315 16 167 270 78 339 438 290 96 518 178 414 205 263 166 116 376 230 206 119 116 Eeef 11 do .... 35 574 13 182 16 Eeef 1 1 2 317 17 N". E. Point 16 17 Halfway Point 167 18 Tolstoi and Middle Hill. N.E. Point 4 4 274 18 .... 78 20 Eeef and Lukannon 339 20 N. E.Point 438 21 Southwest Bay O 2 292 21 N.E. Point 96 23 English Bay and Lukannon ..... 3 2 "*3" 0 2 5 1 .... 10 2 3 1 12 521 23 N. E.Point 179 24 Eeef and Zoltoi... ...... 426 24 N. E. Point 205 25 Q O — 3 266 25 N. E.Point 166 26 27 S. W.Bay English Bay and Middle Hill .... — 19 1 1 1 20 117 396 27 N. E.Point Eeef " 230 28 206 * Eejected H. Doc. 92 16 "or other reasons, 156. 242 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. D.—Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. Eookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. Date. to q 0 P GO rSr—1 bo® <3 rl Si, -d g M ** 02 Skins rejected. Accepted. Eejected.* Pi Pi •rH ® M ° 09 tH . 0 S> •rH ® m"~" CD 0 rH 0 CD 0 <» • ■Ph □ 60 © oo $4 73 rl is +j * r-l £-1 r-t O V OS fHr^i OrdM H 1890. June 28 N. E.Point 79 206 97 246 130 240 96 181 180 472 318 524 74 400 336 257 378 160 271 373 112 624 211 041 104 315 245 311 369 485 405 80 547 446 752 507 79 207 98 246 131 240 96 181 180 472 321 525 74 400 336 257 379 162 271 374 112 629 211 641 104 315 245 311 372 485 405 80 549 446 758 509 2 2 2 22 1 11 4 1 4 4 17 1 156 7 22 47 79 30 Tolstoi, E. Bay, Middle Hill, and Ketavie 1 1 2 2 209 30 N.E. Point 98 July 1 Eeef 246 1 N.E. Point 1 131 2 Halfway Point 2 2 242 2 N. E.Point 96 3 S. W. Bay 2 .-.-yi 2 183 3 N. E.Point 180 4 Tolstoi, English Bay, and Middle Hill ... 3 1 19 3 22 494 4 N. E.Point 321 5 Eeef 1 1 526 5 N. E.Point 74 7 English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukan- 11 11 411 7 1ST. E. Point 1 336 8 Halfway Point 3 ll 4 261 8 N.E. Point 1 379 9 S.W. Bay 1 1 163 9 N. E.Point 271 10 Eeef 1 2 9 - A 378 10 N. E.Point 112 12 English ltey, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukan- 5 4 % 4 633 13 211 13 N. E.Point 17 17 658 14 Eeef .... 104 15 English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukannon, and Ketavie. 315 15 N. E.Point 245 16 do i i 312 17 Polavina, Lukannon, 3 372 17 N. E.Point * 485 18 do 405 18 Zapadnie.. ... 156 7 236 19 Eeef and Zoltoi.. 2 3 4 556 19 N. E.Point... 446 29 English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukannon, Ketavio, and Eooky Point.. 6 18 2 47 4 22 780 20 N. E. Point.. 556 Total. 1 119 115 3 1 16,783 50 Il85 50 344 16,833 391 17,224 * Eejected for other reasons, 156. Table shoiving disposition of the rejected skins of 1890 which I refused to destroy. Total number of skins rejected July 10, accepted by lessees at N. E. Pt July 20, accepted by lessees at N. E. Pt July 20, accepted by lessees at village ..: Now in salt at N. E. Pt Now in salt at village Eeceived by North American Commercial Company to make suits for 3 employees who are to winter on St. Matthews Island, establishing a trading station for said company Prof. William Palmer of the Smithsonian Institution - Spoiled on tho field Given to the natives 191 22 43 34 47 2 41 4 156 42 Total. 391 The North American Commercial Company asked for five specimens for exhibition as per accompanying letter, and reported killing 1 cow, 1 pup, 1 bull, large, 3 males of different ages; total, 6. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 243 E.—Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 20, 1890. Bookery. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. A segregates. Date. Accepted. Eejected for other reasons; died on the road. Total. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Total number Prime. Second class. of seals killed. 1890. June 2 North 71 214 113 179 394 71 218 118 181 394 164 184 189 189 149 2^8 57 58 24 193 60 103 53 132 119 71 641 527 71 218 117 181 394 164 184 189 189 145 234 57 57 23 186 59 102 53 131 119 71 641 527 71 16 18 19 East North East and Little East Zapadnie 4 4 2 1 — 1 218 118 181 20 394 23 Starry Ateel and North East and Little East Starry Ateel and North Zapadnie 162 2 164 25 182 2 188 1 184 28 189 30 189 145 234 56 189 July 1 3 5 East and Little East Starry Ateel and North.... East and Little East Zapadnie 1 4 4 4 4 149 238 57 7 K7 1 1 7 1 1 1 1 7 1 vl"- 58 8 East and Little East Starry Ateel and North.... East 23 183 59 102 53 131 119 71 634 24 9 11 3 193 60 12 14 Starrv Ateel and North Zapadnie 103 53 15 East 1 1 132 16 Starry Ateel and North East 119 18 | 71 20 Starry Ateel and North 7 641 20 r»27 527 4,086 1 26 21 1 4,133 4,112 21 4,133 Note.—One rejected skin was given to the chief, and the remaining twenty (20) were salted down in the salt house till further orders. Joseph Mueeat, First Assistant Agent. [Telegram.] Inclosure with Goff's annual report for 1890; instructions concerning certain food skins. Washington, D. C, May 5,1890. Should any doubt arise concerning pup skins claimed by Alaska Commercial Company under instructions to Agent Nettleton of March 11 last, you will cause all such skins, together with the merchantable skins specified in your instructions of March 26 last, to be shipped to collector, San Francisco, and thereupon report facts to Department for determination. Geo. C. Tichenor, Assistant Secretary. Chas. J. Gofe, Treasury Agent Seal Islands, Care Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Gal., Inclosures with Goff's annual report for 1890; disposition of food skins. St. Georgke Island, Alaska, May 26,1890. Sir: Herewith I would ask permission to ship, per steamer Bora, 482 fur seals, at present stored at our village salt house and 109 at our salt house at Zapadnie. ■am 244 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. These 591 fur seals were killed by the natives for food during the winter 1889 to 1890, and have been salted and cared for by the Alaska Commercial Company, before the transfer of its property to the North American Commercial Company, the present holders of the lease for the Seal Islands. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Eudolph Neumann, General Agent Alaska Commercial Company. Hon. Chas. J. Goff, United States Treasury Agent in charge of the Seal Islands, St. Paul and St. George. St. Paul Island, Alaska, May 31,1890. Sir: Herewith I would ask permission to ship, per steamer Bora, 3,196 fur seals, 794 stagy skins being included in this number, and stored at present at our village salt house and 298 at our salt house at Northeast Point. These 3,494 fur seals were killed by the natives for food during the winter of 1889 to 1890, and have been salted and cared for by the Alaska Commercial Company, before the transfer of its property to the North American Commercial Company, the present holders of the lease for the Seal Islands. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Rudolph Neumann, General Agent Alaska Commercial Company. Hon. Chas. J. Goff, United States Treasury Agent in charge of the Seal Islands, St. Paul and St. George. St. Paul Island, Alaska, May 31,1890. Sir : In reply to your communications bearing dates May 26 and 31, respectively, asking permission to remove the fur seal skins now in the salt houses on St. Paul and St. George islands, I will say, in pursuance to instructions received by me from the Secretary of the Treasury, I will have to respectfully decline to allow you to remove the skins in question, and herewith inform you that all of the said skins will be shipped per United States cutter, care collector of customs, San Francisco, Cal., to be disposed of by the Department as the Secretary may deem advisable. Respectfully, yours, Chas. J. Goff, Treasury Agent. Hon. Rudolph Neumann, General Agent Alaska Commercial Company. St. Paul Island, July 8,1890. Dear Sir : The North American Commercial Company will accept as part of their quota of 60,000 seal skins for 1890 such of the food skins of 1889 as they may find on examination to be merchantable and acceptable to them. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 245 The skins being now stored in our warehouses on this and St. George Island, we hereby claim the privilege of availing, ourselves of the offer made us by the honorable Secretary of the Treasury at Washington, as contained in and being a part of his instructions to you, dated March 26,1890, a copy of which, by his request, you were kind enough to furnish the company, which instructions, in our opinion, were not changed by any subsequent order made by the honorable Secretary, so far as our right to accept the food skins is concerned. If the food skins claimed by us should not be delivered to us here, so as to enable us to ship them with the company's skins taken under their lease this season, we could not get them in London in time for our fall sale were they tendered the company at San Francisco after the cutter's arrival from Alaska in the fall. Being thus deprived of the skins, a heavy loss to the company in prospective profits would result, which loss we would feel should be made good to us by the Government of the United States. I respectfully request you to communicate to me in writing the result of your conclusions in the matter. I am, very respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Chas. J. Goff, Esq., Treasury Agent, in charge Seal Fisheries, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, July 8, 1890. Dear Sir : Your communication of even date, in which you ask permission to assort and examine the skins of the seals killed for food during the winter of 1889 and 1890 and to take such as you may adjudge acceptable to your company as part of your season's catch for this year, has been carefully considered and your request respectfully declined, as I have no option in the matter other than to strictly obey the orders of the Secretary of the Treasury. I avail myself of this opportunity to notify you that on and after July 20 I shall require you to conform to that clause in my instructions which prevents killing of fur seals for their skins after that date. Respectfully, yours, Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent. - Geo. R. Tingle, Esq., General Manager North American Commercial Company. 246 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. INCLOSTTRES WITH GOEP'S ANNUAL REPORT FOE 1890. F.—Annual statement of fur seals killed for food on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended May 21,1890. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Date. Large Total. Skins accepted oy lessees. 156 163 58 123 139 87 Skins rejected. Pups. young seals. Under size. Stagey. Cut. 1889. July 31 Aug. 6 Zoltoi 160 163 58 131 141 179 141 110 107 120 103 132 125 224 347 192 10 240 243 175 131 160 163 58 131 141 179 141 110 107 120 103 132 125 224 347 192 10 240 243 175 131 4 Lukannon Ang. 11 Balance over shipment in salt house Aug. 14 Zoltoi 3 5 Aug. 22 do 2 Aug. 31 Tolstoi 1 91 141 110 106 119 99 86 42 Sept. 9 Sept. 18 Sept. 25 Oct. 5 Zoltoi do '. do 1 1 4 ! 1 do Oct. 15 do Oct. 26 Lukannon 44 80 223 347 189 10 236 240 170 131 Nov. 4 Zoltoi 1,044 1,236 Nov. 19 Tolstoi Reef Nov. 21 Nov. 27 do 3 Nov. 27 Zapadnie Nov. 30 Reef 4 3 5 Dec. 11 Zapadnie 1890. Jail. 27 Sea Lion Rock May 21 do Total Skins at Northeast Point killed for watokmen Grand total of food skins 2,280 [ 3.232 ; 301 3,232 2,396 ....... 31 794 11 1 1 These skins will be shipped on board TJ. S. cutter Richard Rush and consigned to collector of customs, San FTancisco, as per your instructions bearing date May 5, 1890. The steamer will leave the seal islands early in September. Annual statement of fur seals killed for food on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended May 31, 1890. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Date. Pups. T „„ Large young seals. Skins rejected (stagey). 1S89. Aug. 10 North 55 56 48 64 50 33 37 82 4 6 6 01 32 37 109 Aug. 19 do Aug. 30 do ; 48 64 50 Sept. 7 Sept. 21 Sept. 30 do North 33 Oct. 11 do 37 Oct. 21 Starry-Ateel Oct. 31 North Nov. 6 do 600 471 Nov. 12 do Nov. 25 Starry-Ateel May 13 North May 31 do Lor the watchmen at. Total Zapadnie for the whole season . ........ 1,071 630 232 These skins (630) will be shipped on board XT. S. cattor Richard Rush and consigned to collector of customs at San Francisco, as per your instructions bearing date May 5, 1890. The steamer will leave the seal islands early in September. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 24V G.—Tahle showing the killing of fur seals on St. Paul Island up to July 20, 1889, by the Alaska Commercial Company, and up to July 20,1890, by the North American Commercial Company; also daily weather report from June 1 to July 31 of each year. VILLAGE. Date. No. killed. Date. No. killed. 1889. 201 120 1 947 762 340 895 1,161 1,561 253 1,353 2,578 979 1,314 311 1,349 1,038 15,162 1890. 116 10.. 11 574 12. 13 182 14 16 17 18 317 15 [ 167 17 . 274 18 20 . 21 339 19 292 20.. 23 521 22 24 426 24.. 25 266 25.. 26 117 26 27 396 27*.. 28 206 28 30 209 29 Total Total 4,402 July 1 July 1 1,023 834 1,841 1,710 1,255 1,302 814 1,314 654 2, 004 1,006 3,085 1,911 1,931 2,046 2,017 1,913 26,666 246 2 o 242 3.. 3 183 4 4 5 7 8 9 494 5 526 6 41.1 8 9 261 163 10.. 10 378 12 12 C33 13 13 14 15 17 2U 15 104 16 315 17.. 372 18.. 18 19 236 19 556 20 20 Total 780 Total 6,111 NORTHEAST POINT. June 17 1,054 1,270 494 1,205 754 1,407 441 844 479 335 1 June 17 ". 16 18 18 78 19 20 21 438 21 r 1 96 24 23 179 25 26 24 25 205 166 27 27 230 28 28 79 29 30 98 Total Total 8,283 ~i] 200 968 1,559 1,524* 376 914 641 '• 800 ! 793 ' 1,838 1,156 948 1,282 834 «243 1,585 July 1. 2 July i 131 96 4 3 180 4 ° 7 321 6 74 8.. 336 9 s ::::: 379 10 9 10 271 13 112 15 13 658 16.. 15 245 17 18 16 17 312 485 19 20 18 19 405 446 20 Total.'. 556 Total 15,076 5,007 a Two hundred and forty-three this day to make the full quota of 100,000. RECAPITULATION, y lessees on St. Paul Island from Juno 1 to July 20: Total number of fur seals killed 1889 1890 65,187 17,105 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. G.—Table showing the killing of fur seals on St. Paul Island, etc.—Continued. WEATHER REPORT. Weather. Max. Min. Weather. iMax. Min. Hazy .. .do Thick fog. Rain Hazy Thick fog. Fog :. June, 1890. July, 1890. Clear 37 Hazy 34 ..do . 41 Clear | 42 42 43 44 48 43 44 43 Clear 42 43 43 48 43 45 44 40 43 45 49 49 42 45 42 ..do ..do Hazy .... ..do Fog Clear .... Thick fog Rain Hazy.... Fog , Hazy I Thick fog. Hazy 44 Rain 44 Fog 43 Hazy 42 Fog 33 32 33 31 32 31 38 39 39 34 37 37 37 38 39 36 37 37 37 39 40 40 39 38 40 38 39 38 40 39 Weather. Snow Hazy Clear Fine Clear Fog Hazy Rain Thick fog. ...do ...do Fog ...dbo ...do Raining .. Fog Rain Clear Fog Fine Rain Clear Hazy Fog ...do ...do ...do Hazy ...do ...do Max. 46 48 46 47 50 51 51 44 46 47 48 51 48 44 45 44 47 47 50 49 54 56 53 52 52 53 53 .49 48 48 51 Min 40 40 40 39 40 40 41 40 41 42 43 41 43 43 43 41 42 42 40 40 44 43 45 46 45 43 46 45 44 40 45 Weather. Fog. Do. Clear. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Hazv. Do. Fog. Do. Do. Rain. Fog. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. H.—Table showing the beginning of eaeh sealing season on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, from 1870 to 1890, inclusive, and the number of fur seals accepted by the lessees up to July 20 of each year. St. Paul. St. G eorge. Number of skins Season Number Season Number accepted began of skins began of skins from both June— accepted. June— accepted. islands. 1 29, 788 4 12, 604 42, 392 1 65, 499 3 21,563 87, 062 3 68, 035 4 17, 362 85, 397 3 88, 058 1 8,554 96,612 1 83,890 1 10,000 93, 890 3 69, 367 1 10, 000 79, 367 4 58, 732 1 15, 000 73, 732 8 78, 570 10 16, 709 95, 279 2 ' 80, 572 3 20,569 & 101,141 1 80, 000 3 20, 000 100,000 6 80, 000 9 20, 000 100, 000 2 80, 000 6 20,000 100, 000 4 60,101 4 11,123 71,224 3 83,092 4 11,152 94,244 3 70, 451 1 15,000 85, 451 4 72,120 8 13, 335 85,455 1 77,389 9 13, 381 90,770 2 73, 808 6 13,187 86,995 1 08,485 4 10,138 78, 623 6 16,833 2 4,112 20,945 6 Accepted but not shipped in one year; balance carried over. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 249 I.—Statement of liabilities of the North American Commercial Company to the natives of St. Paul Island, after the division and distribution of 1890, showing the amount due each individual August 1, Name. Amount. Name. Amount. Artomonoff, Kerrick Arkshoif, Arseny Burdukofsky, Apollon JButrin, Kerriok Bogadanoff, Nicoli Butrin, Karp BellaglazofF, Ellen Emanoff, George Fratis, John Grcinoff, Nicoli Glotof, John Galaktanoff, Alex. Haberof, Paul Hapoff, John, estateof Honsen, Alex Kozerof, Stepan Kushin, Aggie Kootchuten, Jacob Krukoff, Nicoli Krukoff, Maxim Krukoff, Peter Knznitzoff, John Kushevnikoff, Eupheme Kootchuten, George Kootchuten, John Kootchuten, Euphenio Kozeroff, Paul, estate of Kuznitzoff, Pemin, estate of Krukof, Natalia Kozeloff, Parascovia Merculiff, Alex Melovidoff, Antone Melovidoff, Simeon Melovidoff, Mrs. A Merculiff, Dorafay Mao dregau, Ustenia Merculiff, Anxinia Nederazoff, Stepan Nederazoff, Martin Oustigoff, Peter Pushinkoff, Peter, estate of. Prokopeef, Vladimer Paraushin, Daniel Pankoff, Parfiri Popoff, Afanasia Mandregan, Neon Melovidoff, Alex Popoff, Nodotia Rookavishnakoff, Zachar.. Rezanzoff, Anna $182. 153. 196. 207. 155. 228. 65. 220. 172. 229. 158. 163. 145. 67. 218. 186. 175. 182. 188. 166. 259. 81. 193. 217. 148. 165. 302. 735. 37. 7. 79. 415. 714. 203. 103. 60. 27. 188. 175. 173. 68. 331. 186. 185. 66. 178. 271. 28. 189. 122. 37 85 04 42 22 19 00 42 37 04 85 92 78 05 97 04 24 04 79 65 04 27 19 04 22 42 85 30 00 50 10 59 74 85 00 00 74 19 04 24 05 25 04 04 00 49 40 74 04 00 Stepetem, Terrenti, estate of Stepetem, Dorafay Sediek, Theodore Sedule, Vasila Shabolin, Necon Stepetim, Elarey Shutyagan, Metrofan Shaishnikoff, Rev. Paul Saroken, J ohn Shapashnikoff, Agafay Shaboln, Ceaser, estate of Shaishnikoff, Valerian Shaishnikoff, Matrona ". Shaishnikoff, George Shane, Catherine Tarrakanoff, Kerrick Tetof, Peter Tetof, Neon Tetof, Fedosia Terrentara, Anna Volkoff, Markel Volkoff, Ellen Yetzamanff, John, estate of Zaharaoff, Kereaka Widow's fund Total Note.—From the North American Commercial Company 10 widows receive weekly rations, and others will have to be added soon. Rank account drawing 4 per cent. John Fratis Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff. Catherine Shutyagan .. Markel Volkoff Ellen Volkoff Avdotia Sediek Elizabeth Sediek Zachar Sediek Nedesda Shaishnikoff... Kerrick Artamanoff Kerrick Buterin Total. $257. 85 437.22 196. 04 190. 42 145. 85 274. 04 155. 85 158.19 20.74 64.70 116.13 105.09 150.10 157. 09 17.68 179.04 192.04 132. 85 64.68 145.00 142.37 158.08 236.23 66.00 179.00 13, 378.90 1,438.30 3,341.74 224.75 983. 68 200. 00 104.17 93.61 104.18 165. 09 2, 281. 09 2,948. 33 11, 884.94 25, 263.84 List of accounts transferred to the North American Commercial Company by the Alaska Commercial Company for natives of St. Paul Island, May 24, 1890. Name. Occupation or condition. Peter Krukoff Sealer . Nicoli Krukoff do . Maxim Krukoff do . Estate of Pemin Koznetzoff (for minor heirs) i- Aggie Kushin Sealer . John Koznetzoff do . Natalia Krukoff Widow Parascovia Kozeroff do . Neon Mandregan Sealer . Vasili Sedule I do - Vesteuria Mandregan Widow Antone Melevidoff. Sealer . Simeon Melovidoff do . Alex Melevidoff do . Anexenia Merculiff. Widow Alexander Merculiff Sealer . Akoolena Nedarazoff Widow Amount. $192.85 80.60 111.73 735. 30 01. 05 32.17 57.00 43.50 90.30 98.05 81.90 172.85 601. 92 223.73 103. 00 20.17 23.24 250 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. List of accounts transferred to the North American Commercial Company, etc.—Cont'd. Name. Occupation or condition. Martin Nedarazoff 1 Sealer Daniel Parauchin do Barbara Pohomoff Widow Parfaria Paukoff Sealer . Vassilisia Peeshnikoff Widow Afanasia Popoff , do . Avdotia Popoff do . Zachar Rookovishnikoff Sealer . Anna Rezanzoff Widow Agafy Shaposhnikoff Minor . Theodore Sediek Sealer . Metrofan Shutyagin do . Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff Priest . Agraflna Shabolin Widow Neon Shabolin Sealer . Elarey Stepetin do . Marena Stepetin Widow Dorafay Stepetin >...-. Sealer . Valivian Shaishnikoff Minor . Matrona Shaishnikoff | do . do . Widow Sealer . Widow Sealer . do. George Shaishnikoff Catherine Shane Kerrick Tarrakanoff Fedosia Tetoff Peter Tetoff Neon Tetoff Anna Tarantova I Widow Markel Volkoff Sealer Estate John Yatzamanoff, held for minor heirs Martha Saroken Widow Mrs. Alex. Melevidoff do Ellen Volkoff Unmarried Alex. Merculiff Sealer Fedosia Koshromikoff Kerrick Artamanoff Sealer Arseney Arkashoff do do . .do . .do. .do . Widow Peter Oustegoff. Kerrick Buterin Apollon Bourdenkofsky Nicoli Bogodaniff Ellen Belaglazoff George Emanoff | Sealer . JohnFratis do . Nicoli Gromoff do . Vladimar Prokopieff I. do . John Glotoff h do . PaulHaberoff do . AnissiaHopoff Widow Alex. Hansen Sealer . John Kotchooten do . Jacob Kotchooten do . Eupheme Katchooten do . George Kotchooten do . Stepan Kozeroff do . Kewekia Zacharoff i Widow Karp Buterin Sealer . Stepan Nedarazoff do Eupheme Koshivenkoff do Amount. On special deposit at 4 per cent per annum. Kerrick Artamanoff I Sealer Kerrick Buterin do John Fratis do Rev. Panl Shaishnikoff. Catherine Shutyagin. Markel Volkoff Ellen Volkoff Avdotia Sediek Elizabeth Sediek Zachar Sediek Nedesda Shaishnikoff. Total. Priest Widow Sealer Unmarried Minor do do do $66. 85 77.85 8.75 76.85 78.05 76.00 58.74 80.85 122. 00 79.70 87.85 69.29 128.40 140.13 69.29 165. 85 252.85 376 49 165.09 165.10 157. 09 47.68 70.85 110. 68 83.85 76.29 150. 00 50.05 276. 23 20.74 223.65 25.00 45.74 10.62 77.79 68.29 65.05 121.05 81.85 89.49 85.00 128. 05 135.55 135.85 302. 52 82.29 75.05 75.05 114. 40 87.49 73.85 73.05 113. 85 77.85 93.00 113. 85 83.85 ' 86.85 8, 870.73 2, 281. 09 2, 948. 33 1,525. 00 3,341. 74 227.05 983.68 343. 08 104.17 93.61 104.18 165.09 12,117.02 20,987. 75 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Distribution of proceeds from fur seals taken on St. Paul Island, 1890. August 1, 1890: 16,777 seal skins, at 40 cents $6,710.80 ' 53 seal skins, cut, at 20 cents 10.60 156 seal skins, rejected 62.40 40 sea-lion skins, at$l 40.00 Less provisions at Northeast Point 40.50 Total 6,783.30 First class. 1. Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff, priest 158.19 2. Antone Melevidoff, first chief 158.19 3. Karp Buterin, second chief 158.19 4. Jacob Koochuten 158.19 5. George Koochuten 158.19 6. Theo. Sediek 158.19 7. Aggie Cushing 158.19 8. Martin Nedarazoff. 158.19 9. Stepan Kozeroff 158.19 10. Neon Mandregan 158.19 11. Peter Krukoff. 158.19 12. NicoliKrukoff 158.19 13. Kerrick Tarrakanoff 158.19 14. Daniel Parauschin 158.19 15. Apollon B urdukoffsky 158.19 16. Zachar Rookarishnikbff 158.19 17. Eupheme Kushernikoff. 158.19 18. Stepan Nedarazoff 158.19 19. ParfiriPoukoff 158.19 20. NicoliGromoff 158.19 21. Elarey Stepeteen 158.19 22. Peter Tetoff 158.19 23. Peter Oustigoff 158.19 Total 3,638.37 Second class. 1. Simeon Melevidoff 142.37 2. George Emenoff 142.37 3. Markel Volkoff 142.37 4. Kerrick Artemonoff 142.37 5. Kerrick Buterin 142.37 6. VasiliSedule 142.37 7. Eupheme Koochuten 142.37 8. JohnFratis 142.37 Total 1,138.96 Third class. 251 1. Metrofan Shutyogan $126.56 2. Arseney Arkoshoff 126.56 3. JohnGlotoff 126.56 4. Necon Shabolin 126.56 5. Alex Hansen 126.56 6. Neon Tetot 126.56 Total ■. 759.36 Fourth class. 1. Dorofay Stepeteen 110.73 2. John Kootchuten 110.73 3. Nicoli Bogodanoff 110.73 4. Vladimer Prokopeeff 110. 73 5. PaulHaberoff 110.73 Total 553. 65 Fifth class. 1. MaximKrukoff 94.92 2. Alex Golaktonoff 94.92 3. Alex Melevidoff , 94. 92 Total 284.76 - Sixth class. 1. Alex Merculiff 79.10 2. John Kuznitzoff „.. 79.10 Total 158.20 Special class. Antone Melevidoff, first chief 50.00 Karp Buterin, second chief 50.00 Mrs. TerrentiStepeteen 50.00 Mrs. Peter Peeshnikoff 50.00 Mrs. John Hopoff 50. 00 Total 250.00 Table showing distribution of earnings on St. Paul Island for taking fur seals in 1889. 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 | First class. Buterin, Karp, second chief Kotchooten, Jacob Kotchooten, George Sediek, Theodore Stepetine, Terrentis Viatkin, Yerlampy Kushin, Aggie Nederazoff, Martine Melovidoff, Antone, first chief Kozeroff, Paul Kozeroff, Stepan Mandrigin, Neon Krukoff; Peter Krukoff, Nicoli Tarakanoff, Kerrick Paranchin, Daniel Bourderkofsky, Apollon Rookaveshinkoff, Zachar Koshinikoff, Eupheme Nedarazoff, Stepan Fratis, John Paukoff, Parfiri Stepetin, Elary Melovidoff, Simeon Tetoff, Peter Gromoff, Nicoli $627.85 627.85 627.85 627.85 627. 85 627. 85 627.85 627. 85 627.85 627. 85 627. 85 627.85 627. 85 627.85 627.85 627.85 627.85 627.85 627.85 627. 85 627.85 627.85 627. 85 627. 85 627.85 627.85 252 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Table showing distribution of earnings on St. Paul Island, etc.—Continued. 27 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 1 2 3 Second class. Volkoff, Markel $565.05 565 05 28 Artomonoff, Kerick 29 565 05 30 Peeshnikoff, Peter 565.05 31 Haberoff, Paul 565.05 32 565.05 33 565.05 34 Hopoff, John 565. 05 35 Emanoff, George 565.05 36 565.05 37 Third class. Shutyagin, Metrofan 502.29 38 Arkashoff, Arsney 502.29 39 Glotoff, John 502.29 40 Shabolin, Necon 502.29 41 Hanssen, Alexander 502.29 42 Tetoff, Neon 502. 29 43 Fourth class. Stepetin, Dorofay 439.49 44 Kotchooten, John 439.49 45 Bogdanoff. Nicoli 439.49 46 Prokopieff, Vladimer 439.49 47 Fifth class. 376.73 48 376.73 49 376.73 50 Sixth class. Shaishnikoff, Alexander 251.17 51 Mercullifi', Alexander 251.17 52 251.17 Special class. 1 000 00 Two chiefs, each $100 200. 00 Estate of C. Shabolin 250. 00 Estate of A. Galkin 250. 00 2,000. 00 Total 32,330 00 • RECAPITULATION. 83,724 seal skins, at 40 cents 1,276 seal skins, cut, at 20 cents 25 sea-lion skins, at 60 cents $33,489.60 255.20 15.00 Less, for provisions to Northeast Point * $129. 80 Paid to St. George men , 1,300.00 33, 759.80 1,429.80 Total 32,330.00 Those in the first class should have received $234, leaving to their credit $171.00 Those in the second class should have received $208, leaving to their credit 152.00 Those in the third class should have received $182, leaving to their credit 133.00 Those in the fourth class should have received $156, leaving to their credit 144.00 Those in the fifth class should have received $143, leaving to their credit 132.00 Those in the seventh class should have received $104, leaving to their credit 96.00 If the accompanying instructions of the Treasury agent in charge had been complied with, the natives would have been in circumstances financially to meet their unfortunate but not unexpected condition, as is clearly shown by the amounts which should have been to their credit. Dr. Account Current. Cr. J.—The North American Commercial Company in account with the United States at St. Paul Island, Alaska. 1890. May 24. To oil fund transferred by Alaska Commercial Company $124.87 May 24. To natives' general fund 182.55 Dr. Account Current. Cr. K.—The North American Commercial Company in account tvith the United States at St. George Island, Alaska. 1890. May 24. To natives' general fund $193. IS ALASKA INDUSTRIES. L.—Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 31, 1890. 253 Name. Artamonoff, Kerrick Artamonoff, Alexandra, wife Artamonoff, Auxenia, daughter.. Ivanoff, Evdokia, visitor Arkashoff, Arseny Arkashoff, Eup hernia, wife Austegoff, Peter Austegoff, Parascovia, wife Austegoff, Stepanida, mother Ivanoff, Anastasia, niece Shaishnikoff^ George, adopted... Bogdanoff, Nicoli Bogdanoff, Fevonia, wjfe Bogdanoff, Zachar, son Bourdukofsky, Appolyon Bourdukofsky, Chionia, wife Bourdukofsky, Peter, son Bourdukofsky, Ouleta, daughter. Lodoshnikoff. Evdokia, adopted. Butarin, Karp Butarin, Parascovia, wife Butarin, Constantino, son Butarin, Ivan, son Mezeekin, Mary, adopted Butarin, Kerrick Butarin, Catherine, daughter Emanoff", George Emanoff, Anna, mother Koznetzoff, John, nephew Koznetzoff, Agafia, niece Fratis, John Fratis, Akoolena, wife Fratis, Susanna, daughter Fratis, John, son Glotoff, John Glotoff, Mary, mother Gromoff, Nicoli Gromoff, Ouleanna, wife Sediek, Elizabeth, adopted Haberoff, Paul Kotchootin, Eupheme Kotchootin, Pelogia, wife Bogdanoff, Mary, adopted Kotchootin, George Kotchootin, Maria, wife Kotchootin, Peter, son Kotchootin, Trepon, son Kotchootin, Matrona, daughter.. Kotchootin, , daughter Kotchootin, Jacob Kotchootin, Fevronia, wife Kotchootin, Ouleta, daughter Kotchootin, Ellen, daughter Kotchootin, Theodore, son Kotchootin, , son Lodoshnikoff, Natalia, adopted .. Koshevinkoff, Eupheme Koshevinkoff, Avdotia, wife Koshevinkoff, Paul, son Kozeroff, Stepan Kozeroff, Anastasia, wife Kozeroff, Trepon, son Kozeroff, Yevnaly, daughter Nozikoff, Simeon, stepson Krukoff, Lxikeria, adopted Krukoff, Peter Krukoff, Anna, wife Krukoff, Nicoli Krukoff, Catherine,wife Krukoff, Metrofan, son Krukoff, Ousteana, daughter Krukoff, Maxim I Krukoff, Feoctesta, wife Krukoff, John, son Krukoff (infant), son Kushin, Aggie Kushin, Mary, wife Kushin, Lukeria, daughter Kushin, Michael, son Shaposhinkoff, Tatiana, adopted. Age. Male. 65 27 Female. 39 24 18 30 9 20 23 56 12 21 38 12 38 31 7 15 36 18 61 18 24 60 15 12 46 20 13 5 24 24 63 22 40 48 41 17 43 12 6 29 Infant. 40 37 17 7 Place of birth. Infant. 11 37 31 8 39 40 15 39 16 35 41 35 } 26 11 Infant 37 36 14 17 Kadiak St. Paul Island Unalaska St. George Island .. St. Paul Island Unalaska St. Paul Island do do do .....do Unga St. Paul Island do do do Unga St. George Island. St. Paul Island do Unalaska do St. Paul Island.... do Unalaska do Sitka St. Paul Island At sea near Sitka.. Atka St. Paul Island do Sitka St. Paul Island.... do do Kurile Islands St. George Island.. St. Paurisland.... St. George Island.. Unalaska. Occupation. St. Paul Island Sealer. St. Michaels St. Paul Island St. Michaels St.PaulIsland Do. do St. George Island... St.PaulIsland St. George Island... St. Paul Island do St. George Island... St. Paul Island do Unalaska Do. St.PaulIsland do do Unalaska St. Paul Island Do. Unalaska St.PaulIsland do do do Do. do do Do. Unalaska St. Paul Island do Ladrone Islands Do. Unalaska •. St.PaulIsland do do Do. Unalaska Attou Do. St. Paul Island Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 254 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. L.—Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 31, 1890—Continued. Name. Mandrean, Neon Mandrean, Mavra, wife Mandrean, Mary, daughter Mandrean, Zoya, daughter Sediek, Avdotia, niece' Sediek, Zachar, nephew r Melovidoff, Antone i Melovidoff, Agrafena, wife Melovidoff, Alexandra, daughter Melovidoff, Olega, daughter Melovidoff, Mary, daughter Melovidoff, Alexandra, mother Melovidoff, Alexander, brother Shaishnikoff, Matrona, adopted Nederazoff, Martin ,. Nederazoff, Stepan Nederazoff, Alexandra, wife Nederazoff, Mary, niece Nederazoff, Prokopy, nephew Nederazoff, Dormedont, nephew Paukoff, Porfaria Paukoff, Olga, wife Paukoff, Valsie, son. Rezanzoff, Natalia, mother-in-law Parauchin, Daniel .* Parauchin, Alexandra, wife Prokopieff, Vlademar Rookovishnikoff, Zachar Rookovishnikoff, Anissia, wife Rookovishnikoff, Stepan, son Rookovishnikoff, Parascovia, daughter. Sediek, Theodore..! Sediek, Martha, wife Sediek, Anna, daughter Sediek, Anastasia, daughter Sediek, Mary, daughter Sediek, Pnnokentie, son Sediek, Yustinia, daughter Sediek, Phillip, nephew Shaishnikoff, Rov. Paul Shaishnikoff, Nadesda, niece Shaishnikoff, Valerian, nephew Shabolin, Necon Shabolin, Ouleta, wife Shabolin, Agrafena, daughter Shabolin, Agrafena, mother Shutyagin, Catherine Shutyagin, Metrofan Shutyagin, Ouleta, wife Shutyagin, Parascovia, sister Sedule, Vasely Sedule, Elizabeth, wife Sedule, Vera, daughter Stepetin, Elary Stepetin, Anna, wife Stepetin, Ouleanna, daughter Fratis, Ellen, niece ,. Stepetin, Dorofay Stepetin, Avdotia, mother Tarakanoff, Kerrick Tarakanoff, Anna, wife Tetoff, Jonas Tetoff", Peter Tetoff, Mary, wife Tetoff", Zachar, brother Tetoff, Alexandra, sister Gleboff, Chionia, mother-in-law Gleboff, Vassa, sister-in-law Volkoff, Markel Volkoff, Alexandra, wife Age. Male. 10 '44 12 30 49 Female. 17 21 38 12 47 29 57 30 26 14 31 Place of birth. St. George Island. Attou St. Paul Island... :....do do do Kadiak Atka St. Paul Island... do do California St. Paul Island... do do Attou St. Paul Island... do do do St. George Island. St. Paul Island... St. George Island. St. Paul Island... Unalaska Attou St. Paul Island... Unalaska St. Paul Island... do do Unalaska St. Paul Island ... do Occupation. Sealer. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. 38 Unalaska St. Paul Island..- do do do Unalaska St. Paul Island... do St. George Island. St. Paul Island... Kadiak Unalaska St. Paul Island... do Unalaska St. Paul Island... do St.PaulIsland.... do do Sitka St. Paul Island do St. George Island. St. Paul Island do St. George Island. do Atka Unalaska Priest, Greek Church. Soaler. Volkoff, infant boy Infant.. St.PaulIsland. Widows. Arkashoff, Martha. Yatzmenoff, Anxenia, niece.. Yatzmenoff. Tassia, sister-in- Balakshin, Matrona Balakshin, Agafa, niece 31 Unalaska 14 St. Paul Island, 25 do 42 do 13 do Do. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. L.—Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 81, 1890—Continued. 255 Name Age. Male. Female. 11 ■ 10 10 Shaposhinkoff, Parascovia, adopted.. Belglazoff, Ellen Tarakanoff, Mary, adopted Krukoff, Natalia Krukoff, John, son.. — 11 o poll", Anissia Hopoff, Nekita, son Kozeroff Avdotia Kozloff, Parascovia Kozloff, Feodotia, daughter Kozloff, Michael, son Kozloff, Nicoli, son Serebrenikoff, Olga, sister Mandregin, Yestenia Rookovishnikoff, Anna, adopted Mercnlieff, Anxenia Merculieff, Alexander, son Mercnlieff, Martin, son Merculieff, Ellen, daughter I Mercnlieff, Luboff, daughter Merculieff infant son Infant.. Nederazoff, Akoolena .. Nederazoff, Agrafena Nederazoff infant son of Agrafena Pohomoff, Barbra Pohomoff, Salome, daughter Mercnlieff, John, adopted 8! Pushnikoff. Vassilesia Popoff, Ardotia Popoff, Evrosinia, daughter Halakshin, Anna, daughter Popoff, Avanasia Shutyagin, Daria, adopted — Rezenza, Anna Galakteonoff, Claudia . f ! Sediek, Daria Kotchootin, John, son | 21 Kotchootin, Zenovia, daughter .. Kotchootin, Ellen, daughter Soroken, Martha Shane, Catherine Shane, Mary, daughter Shane, Feokla, stepdaughter ! Shane, Parascovia Feokla's daughter Shane, Elevery, Feokla's son i 3 Tetoff, Fednsia Tetoff, Irene, daughter I Tetoff, Sofia, daughter Tetoff, Anxenia, daughter* Kotchergin, Avdotia Terentova, Anna ,. Terentova, Anna, daughter .. Volkoff, Ellen \ Kushin, Mavra, niece. Zacharoff, Keriacka Zacharoff,Emanuel, son .. ll Zacharoff, Feodosia, daughter *De zo 56 15 39 Place of birth. Occupation. St. Paul Island. do do do 30 33 13 do Unalaska St. Paul Island.... St. George Island Unalaska St.PaulIsland.... do £1 29 6 35 12 14 45 41 16 32 32 1 8 46 11 58 12 48 23 17 21 31 12 22 4 34 7 5 2 17 72 39 36 11 45 ....do do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do ....do do ....do ....do ....do ....do Attn.. St. Paul Island. ....do ....do ....do Koskoquime Unalaska ....do St. Paullsland. ....do do Unalaska Sitka St. George Islai ....do ....do St.PaulIsland. Kurile Islands. St. Paullsland. ....do Sealer. Do .... do do do do do do Unalaska St. Paullsland. do RECAPITULATION. Total population July 31, 1890 Males: Adults 5 to 17 years. - - Under 5 years. Females: Adults 5 to 17 years... Under 5 years. 42 12 1 256 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. M.—Census of St. George Island, Alaska, July 31,1890. Name. Age. Male. Female. Lestenkoff, Rev. Inokenty Lestenkoff, Elsavta, wife.. Lestenkoff, Michael, son. Lestenkoff, Helena, daughter Lestenkoff, Mary, daughter Lestenkoff, Sarah, daughter Shaishnikoff, J ulia, granddaughter Lestenkoff, Demetri, widower Lestenkoff, Anna, daughter Merculieff, Mark, adopted Philamonoff, Andronic Philamonoff, Zenovia, wife Philamonoff, infant Galanin, Oclina, widow Galanin, Evan, son Prokopief, Peter Prokopief, Fedosia, wife Prokopief, Apanasia, brother Rezanzoff, Fedosia, wido w Rezanzoff, Inokenty, son Rezanzoff, Serafima, granddaughter Oustegoff, Alexa, widower Galaktianoff, Alexander Galaktianoff, Oxenia, wife Swetzoff, Eustin Swetzoff, Krestina, wife Swetzoff, Gregorie, son Philamonoff, Eoff, widower Philamonoff, Gregorie, son Philamonoff, Demetria, son Philamonoff, Eugenia, daughter Gorokoff, Corinal Gorokoff, Katerina, wife Gorokoff, Anna, daughter Galanin, Porfor, brother-in-law Galanin, Alexander, adopted Kulikulieff, Evan Kulikulieff, Varvara, wife Arkoloff, Evdokia, adopted Shane, Raisha, widow Shane, Ouleta, daughter Shane, Michael, son Mercnlieff, Natalia, sister Merculieff, Nederda, adopted Oustegoff, Olleta, widow Oustegoff, Simeon, stepson Oustegoff, Agrafena, daughter Oustegoff, Eproxia, daughter Oustegoff, Michael, son Oustegoff, Sosania, daughter Oustegoff, Pel igia, daughter Rezanzoff, Peter .... Rezanzoff, Matrona, wife Rezanzoff, Tatiana, daughter Philamonoff, Simeon Philamonoff, Evdokia, wife Philamonoff, Efriam, son Philamonoff, Inokenty, son Philamonoff, Fedosia, daughter Philamonoff, Andrian Philamonoff,Parascovia, wife........... Philamonoff, Peligia, daughter Mala van sky, Mary, widow Malavansky, Nicoli, son Malavansky, Wassa, daughter Malavansky, Repsemia, daughter Malavansky, Stepineda, granddaughter. Malavansky, Kleopatra, granddaughter. Malavansky, Peter, son Nederazoff, Arkenty Nederazoff, Eugenia, wife Nederazoff, Malinia, daughter........... Nederazoff, Nicoli, son Mercnlieff, Frevonia, widow Mercnlieff, Joseph, son Merculieff, George, son Merculieff, Stepineda, daughter . Merculieff", John, infant son Merculieff, Helena, daughter , 59 17 4 23 12 12 40 39 39 4 45 17 3 26 34 16 4 44 44 40 19 1 38 12 18 16 oo 24 20 13 13 27 19 46 18 33 16 35 10 45 4 38 21 29 10 28 16 10 48 6 26 2 54 15 30 10 7 36 16 36 13 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 257 Census of St. George Island, Alaska, July 31, 1890—Continued. Name. Swetzoff, Poloxenia, sister Swetzoff, Frevonia, daughter Lecanoff, Stepan Lecanoff, Pelegia, wife Lecanoff, infant son Merculieff, Waselesia, widow Merculieff, Evan, son Merculieff, Alexandra, daughter .. Merculieff, Evdokia, daughter Merculieff. Helena, daughter Merculieff, Anna, infant daughter. Age. Male. Female. 21 13 30 12 21 "38* 11 6 3 RECAPITULATION. Total population 90 Males: Adults % 19 5 to 17 years 10 Under 5 years 8 Females: Adults 24 5 to 17 years 19 Under 5 years 10 N. -List of accounts transferred to the North American Commercial Company by the Alaska Commercial Company for the natives of St. George, May 24, 1890. Name. Amount. Name. Amount. Ivan Kulikuliff $58.71 70.00 20.51 40.00 125.00 ! 61.50 125.00 149.65 146.00 1 81. OO 164.00 128. 53 166. 00 164. 00 10.50 60.00 95. 50 127. 50 167. 00' 163. 50 125.00 $187.00 265 69 Joseph Merculiff Demetri Lestenkoff".. Peter Prokopeeff Gregorie Philamanoff.. . 7.25 Okelena Galanin, widow George Merculiff 10.25 Stepan Lekanoff Andronic Philamanoff 123.50 Riesea Shane, widow Serafimea Rezanzoff, orphan 61.20 Andrean Ehilamanoff Nedesda Merculiff, orphan 201. 49 Eoff. Philamanoff Avdokia Vikoliff, orphan 232.69 Mrs. Sebastin Merculiff Mark Merculiff, orphan 211. 39 Peter Rezanzoff Avdokia Popoff...". 74.46 Arkenty Nedarazoff Agrifinea Oustigoff, orphan.. 18.05 Alex. Galaktonoff Fedosia Rezanzoff widow . 50.00 Simeon Philamanoff Rev. Innokenty Lestinkoff, priest ■St. George Church Eustin Swetszoff 3, 691. 87 Mike Lestinkoff Natalia Merculiff 1,700.00 1, 394.55 Total Cornil Gorokoff 3. 094 55 Alexia Oustigoff Simeon Oustigoff 6, 786.42 H. Doc. 92 17 258 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Division of proceeds of sealing at St. George Island for the season of 1890. [4,112 seal skins, at 40 cents, $1,644.80.] Name. First class: Lestankoff, Demetra... Nederazoff. Arkenty... Oustegoff, Alexaye Philamonoff, Eotf Philamonoff, Simeon... Gorokoff", Corneal Swetzoff", Eustin Total Second class: Malavanski, Nicoli Philamonoff, Andronic Philamonoff, Andrean Lekarnoff, Stepan Total Third class: Kulikoloff, Evan Rezanzoff, Peter Amount. $85. 56 85. 56 85. 56 85. 56 85. 56 85. 56 85. 56 598. 92 72. 72 72. 72 72 71 72 71 86 290 64. 17 64 17 Third class—Continued. Oustegoff, Simeon ... Merculiff, Joseph Prokopeoff, Peter Lestankoff, Mike Total Special class: Lestankoff, Rev. Innokenty Philamonoff, Gregorie Philamonoff, Ephraim Merculiff, George Galanin, Pafara Rezanzoff, Innokenty Nederazoff, Nicoli Merculiff, John Philamonoff, Innokenty Total Amount. $64.17 64.17 64.17 64.17 385.02 200.00 25. 00 25.00 25.00 25.00 25.00 15. 00 15.00 15.00 370.00 Grand total 1, 644.80 List of accounts due natives by the North American Commercial Company. Name. Simeon Philamonof.. Alexa Oustegof Andrean Philamonof Andronic Philamonof Eof. Philamonof Jos. Merculif Peter Rezanzof Stepan Lekhanof.... Peter Prokopeof Simoon Oustegof Uston Swetzof Arkenta Nedarazof.. Corneal Gorokhof ... Nicoli Malavanski.. .- Demetra Lestenkof.. Mike Lestenkof Gregory Philamonof. George Merculif Innokenty Rezanzof. Evan Kulikolof Balance Cr. Name. Balance Cr. $216.56 216. 06 170. 21 170.22 202.21 112.17 123.17 170.21 64.17 166. 92 209.56 208. 56 213. 56 233.72 286. 25 66.67 25.00 27.00 98.50 102.88 Ephraim Philamonof $25.00 Pafara Galanin 25.00 Nicoli Nederazof 15.00 John Merculif 15.00 Innokenty Philamonof 15. 00 Rev. Innokenty Lestankof 1, 800.00 St. George Church 1,294.55 Sebastian Merculif 115.00 Nadesda Merculif 199.49 Zahar Oustekof 100.00 Sarapheme Rezanzof 55.70 Riese Shane 45.00 Fedosia Rezanzof 39.00 Okalina Galinin 27. 25 Avdotia Popoff .'. 64.46 Eflokie Vickloff 228.19 Agrafina Oustikof 9.80 Natalia Merculiff 60. 00 Mark Merculif 205. 89 O.—Receipts of Agents Lavender and Murray. Island of St. Paul, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 9, 1890. This is to certify that 16,874 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the steamship Arago, Captain Thomas commanding, and consigned to the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco. This being the total catch on St. Paul Island for the season of 1890. Joseph Murray, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, Alaska, August 9, 1890. Received this day on hoard the steamship Arago, for the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco, 16,874 fur-seal skins. H. C. Thomas, Captain^ Commanding Arago. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 259 Island of St. George, Bering Sea, Alaska, April 11, 1890. This is to certify that 4,121 fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the steamship Arago, Captain Thomas commanding, and consigned to the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco. This being the total catch on St. George Island for the season of 1890. Albert W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, Alaska, August —, 1890. Received this day on board the steamship Arago, for the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco, 4,121 fur-seal skins. H. C. Thomas, Captain, Commanding Arago. [Telegraphic instructions to Special Agent Goff.] Washington, D. 0., April 29,1890. Charles J. Goff, Treasury Agent, Seal Islands. (Care collector of customs, San Francisco, Cal.) In case absolute necessity, caused by scarcity of natives or otherwise, use best judgment and discretion in allowing killing seals for skins after July 20. W. Windom, Secretary. is! P.—Protest of George B. Tingle. North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 18, 1890. Sir : Your communication of the 8th instant was received, in which you notify me as superintendent of the North American Commercial Company that said company must cease killing seals on the 20th instant. The delay in replying thereto was with the hope that, as a result of our several verbal discussions of the propriety or necessity of your order, you would be convinced of the untenable position you have assumed and revoke the order, thus allowing the lessees to go on with their business as the law provides. Your announcement to me this evening that you will not revoke your order, and that your decision is final, leaves me but one thing more to do, viz, file this protest against the wisdom, justice, or necessity of enforcing on the lessees what we consider an arbitrary abridgment of our rights under and by virtue of the law. The lease was executed by the Government of the United States in pursuance of chapter 3, title 23, Eevised Statutes. This law authorized the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe from time to time the rules and regulations by which the Treasury agents in charge of the seal fisheries shall be governed. There is nowhere in the law any provision authorizing the Secretary of the Treasury, after he has fixed upon the number of seals the lessees shall kill in any one year, to cut down the time to such a date as to make it impossible for them to secure the number allowed to be taken. 260 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The date you fix, 20th instant, it is true, was named by the Secretary of the Treasury on your recommendation, but you received subsequently an order to extend the time or I use your best judgment." On the receipt of said telegraphic order the day before our ship sailed, you told the president of the company, I. Liebes, and myself, that "it would be all right; it was as good as we wanted," etc., satisfying the president of the company and myself that you would extend the time, otherwise we would not have sailed until we received from the Secretary a positive revocation of that part of his instructions which cut us off on 20th from killing seals. You said to-day, that seeing that seals were so scarce determined you to stop the killing on the 20th, and yet you admit to having ordered Colonel Murray, on St. George Island, the Treasury agent in charge, to stop our agent there from killing. This order was issued to Colonel Murray at an early date, before the killing of seals had hardly commenced, and it was not known whether they would be few or many. The law says the lessees shall give the natives a maintenance out of the taking of the seal skins. Sow can that provision of the law be carried out when the Government steps in and stops the lessees from hilling when they are taking a thousand seals a day. By the enforcement of your order as the representatives and agents of the United States you deprive the natives of a maintenance; you deprive the Government of large revenue; you cause the North American Commercial Company great loss; you turn over to the marauders and other natural enemies of the seals in the water many thousands of fine, killable, merchantable seals, which we could take without any detriment whatever to the rookeries. We have every reason to believe, from the marked increase of new arrivals of fine seals, that if we were allowed by you to continue our killing under the law we could fill our quota of 60,000 seals. Believing this, we will claim damages from the Government of the United States equal to the loss we sustained by your act limiting the time to the 20th instant when we shall cease killing. This limitation of time has no precedent in the past 20 years, while the quota for St. George and St. Paul islands was several times changed. The law fixed the time when the killing shall cease, but the Secretary can fix the number to be killed each year—not exceeding 100,000. In view of the foregoing facts, the North American Commercial Company respectfully claim the right to be allowed to proceed with the execution of their business under and by virtue of their lease. I am, very respectfully, Geo. E. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. C. J. Goff, Esq., Treasury Agent, in charge of Seal Fisheries. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 261 Table showing the number of fur seals killed for skins on the Island of St. Paul by the Alaska Commercial Company, and also for natives' food, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive; the amount of earnings received by the natives of this island for taking and curing these skins, and the distribution of said earnings; the total number of fur-seal skins shipped from St. Paul Island by the Alaska Commercial Company from 1870 to 1889, inclusive. Tears. 1870 1871 1872 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 1889 Total. Paid to na- Total fur-| tives for seal skins taking and I,. snipped. curing skins. 6,017 76,134 74, 941 74,485 89,924 89, 687 80,000 60,199 82, 000 80, 000 80, 000 79,905 80,000 60, 000 85, 000 84, 995 85, 000 85, 000 85, 000 85, 000 1,523,287 Paid to natives for general labor. $2,406.80 30,853. 60 30,416. 00 29, 597. 80 29, 849. 60 30, 098. 00 31,848. 20 23,981.60 32,654.00 31, 908. 60 31, 889.00 31,825.60 31,750.80 23,896. 80 33, 785. 60 33,933. 00 33,941.80 33,839. 80 33,834.60 33,744.80 $580. 40 221.97 76.80 217. 53 276. 03 113. 40 146. 40 2, 218.38 1, 910. 86 215. 40 54.00 257. 50 97.00 240. 00 12.00 134. 00 203. 40 15.60 15.00 Total fur seals killed. 6,017 77, 925 76,698 76, 488 97,932 91,215 79,199 62, 813 83. 034 86, 592 80,276 81, 501 81, 420 61, 987 86, 013 86, 364 85, 689 85, 629 85,271 85,053 596,056.00 7, 005.67 1, 557,116 Rejected stagey skin a. 431 1,536 736 596 451 1,979 1,088 981 1,977 275 1,341 1,414 1,775 941 182 635 590 196 Distribution of natives' earnings for taking and curing fur-seal skins. Received by St. Paul Church. $150.00 910.16 902.45 870. 62 859. 06 432.07 757.12 621. 50 855. 78 822. 24 813.10 857.66 1 18,124 Received by St. Paul priest. $451.22 435.11 429. 53 432.07 "62L48 855.78 821. 50 813.10 857.66 1, 000. 00 750. 00 1, 000. 00 1, 000. 00 1,000.00 1, 000. 00 1, 000. 00 1, 000.00 Received by St. Paul widows. $77. 20 614.82 500.00 200. 00 150.05 2, 650.66 50.00 300. 00 266.66 1, 500.00 150.00 2, 500. 00 a 8,851.76 a 13,467.45 a 8.892,07 Distribution of natives' earnings for taking and curing fur- seal skins. Tears. Received by St. Paul aged and sick. Received by St. Paul Church for translation of church service. Received by chiefs as salary. Received by Unalaska Church. Received by Unalaska priest. Received by St. George men for work done on St. Paul. Remarks. 1870 $109. 30 455. 08 1871 $455.08 received by Dr. Kramer, first- class share, a 15,000 skins credited 1872 1873 1874 $6,000. 00 5, 600.00 1875. $432.07 378.40 310.74 to St.Georgemen for labor; $680 received by men from Kodiak for labor. 14,000 sk ins credited to St. George men for labor; $12.60 donated to Antone Melevidoff. a $1,022.92 received by natives for making oil, under head of general labor. $1,666.06 received by natives for making oil, under head of general labor. $50 received by school- 1876 756. 80 1877 1878 $300.00 450. 00 450. 00 225. 00 855.78 1879 450.00 1880 $200. 00 $1,219.65 428. 83 1881 1882 1883 225. 00 300. 00 300. 00 200. 00 200. 00 200. 00 200.00 1884 2, 844.35 3,036.05 3, 000. 00 2,500. 00 1,500.00 1, 300.00 1885 1, 000.00 600.00 1886 1887 1888 1889 1 Total a 1,800.00 a 1,648.48 1 3,050.00 1 a 1,571.21 a2,176.96 25,780.40 262 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Table shoioing the number of fur seals killed for skins on the Island of St. Paul by the Alaska Commercial Company, etc.—Continued. REC APITULA TION. Total fur seals killed for skins on the island of St. Paul by the Alaska Commercial Company, and also for natives' food, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 1,557,116 Total fur seals killed for skins shipped from St. Paul by Alaska Commercial Company from 1870 to 1889 1,523.287 Total fur -seal skins from St. Paul rejected, stagey 18,124 Destruction to seal life on St. Paul Island in securing catch from 1870 to 1889, inclusive... 15, 705 1, 557,116 Note.—Total fur seals, of all clases, killed for natives' food on St. Paul Island from 1870 to 1889, inclusive - 144,801 Total fur seals (large young seals) killed for natives' food, of which the Alaska Commercial Company accepted and shipped 62,873 skins 80,997 Total fur-seal pups (5 month old) killed for natives' food from 1870 to 1889 63,804 144, 801 Total earnings received by natives of St. Paul Island from 1870 to 1889, inclusive $603,061.67 Total donations received by natives of St. Paul Island a 38,875.61 Total paid to chiefs 3,050.00 Total paid to St. George men for labor on St. Paul 25,780.40 Total paid to Kodiak men for labor on St. Paul b 680 00 Total paid to school-teacher c 50.00 Total with Alaska Commercial Company for Mrs. Melevidoff 3,404.99 Total expended by natives from 1870 to 1889 509,890.07 Total balance due natives May 24, 1890, with North American Commercial Company 21,330.60 603, 061.67 Table shoioing number of fur seals killed for skins on the Island of St. George by the Alaska Commercial Company, and also for natives1 food, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive; the amount of earnings received bythe natives of this island for taking and curing these skins; also amount earned by St. George men on St. Paul Island, and the distribution of said earnings; the total number of fur-seal skins shipped from St. George Island by the Alaska Commercial Company from 1870 to 1889, inclusive. Total fur-seal skins shipped. Paid to natives for taking and curing skins. Total fur seals killed. Total rejected stagey. Distribution of natives i taking and caring fur- aarningsfor seal 8 kins. Years. Si . George earnings transferred from St. Paul. Received by St. George Church. Received by St. George priest. 1870 1871. 19, 077 25,000 25, 000 10,000 10, 000 10, 000 15, 000 18,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 15,000 15, 000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 $7,630. 80 10, 000. 00 10,000.00 4,000. 00 4, 000.00 4,000. 00 6, 000. 00 7, 200. 00 8, 000. 00 8,000. 00 8,000. 00 8,000. 00 6,000.00 6,000. 00 6,000.00 6,000.00 6,000.00 6,000.00 6,000.00 19, 077 25,000 25,067 10, 000 10, 034 10, 279 15,143 18, 360 20, 316 20, 358 20,233 20,316 15,076 15, 000 15,145 15,083 15,166 15,179 15,082 1872 1873 . 67 34 279 143 360 316 275 126 291 1874 1875.. $6, 000.00 5,600.00 $340.00 160. 00 250. 00 300. 00 380. 00 1,000. 00 172.00 100.00 1876 1877 ............ 1878 1879 .. 1880 1881 1882 $700.00 1883.. 375.00 1884.. 2,844.35 3,036.05 3,000. 00 2,500.00 1,500.00 1,300.00 600.00 1885.. 120 29 76 113 40 800.00 1886 1887 1888 800.00 800.00 800.00 1889 .. 800. 00 Total 317,077 128,830.80 319,914 2, 269 25,780.40 a 2,702.00 a 5,675.00 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 263 Table showing number of fur seals killed for skins on the Island of St. George by the Alaska Commercial Compuny, etc.—Continued. Distribution of natives' earnings for taking and curing fur-seal skins. Tears. Received by St. George widows. Received Received by St. | by St. George George aged and chief as sick. salary. Received by Unalaska priest. Received by St. Paul priest. Remarks. 1870 • No record of seals killed 1871 $130.00 20.00 on St. George Island in 1870. $19.25 unaccounted for. b 1872 1873 1874 15,000 fur-seal skins 1875 $300. 00 160.00 250. 00 $340. 00 160. 00 250. 00 300. 50 375. 00 shipped from St. Paul to St. George, and credited to St. George. 14,000 fur-seal skins 1876 ; t ^ shipped from St. Paul to St. George, and credited to St. George. 1877 1878 1879 1880 1881 1882 ... 1883 $90. 00 1884 100. 00 100. 00 80.00 100. 00 100. 00 100. 00 1885 1886 50.00 $100.00 1887 1888 1889 250.00 Total a 450. 00 a 100.00 a 670.00 a 710.00 a 1,425.50 RECAPITULATION. Total fur seals killed for skins on St. George Island by the Alaska Commercial Company, and for natives' food, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 319,914 Total fur-seal skins shipped by the Alaska Commercial Company from St. George Island from 1870 to 1889 317, 077 Total fur-seal skins rejected and stagey 2,269 Total destruction to seal life in securing catch on St. George from 1870 to 1889 568 319,914 Note.—Total number of fur-seal pups killed for natives' food on St. George Island from 1870 to 1889, inclusive, 29,060. Total earnings received by natives for labor on St. George Island from 1870 to 1889 $126,830.80 Total earnings received by natives for labor on St. Paul Island from 1870 to 1889 25, 780.40 152, 611.20 Total donations a 11,732.50 Total unaccounted for 619. 25 Total expended by natives from 1870 to 1889 134,073.03 Total balance to natives' account on May 24, 1890, and turned over by Alaska Commercial Company to North American Commercial Company 6,786.42 152,611.20 264 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Consolidated report showing the total number of fur seals killed for skins on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, by the Alaska Commercial Company, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive; also the number of large young seals and pups killed for natives9 food on the islands of St. Paul and St. George from 1870 to 1889, inclusive; the total number of fur-seal skins shipped from St. Paul and St. George Islands by the Alaska Commercial Company from 1870 to 1889, inclusive; the amount of earnings received by the natives of St. Paul and St. George for taking and curing skins, and the distribution of said earnings. Total number of fur seals killed for skins on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, by the Alaska Commercial Company, and also for natives' food, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 1, 877,030 Total number of fur-seal skins shipped from the islands of St. Paul and St. George by the Alaska Commercial Company from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 1, 840, 364 Total number of fur-seal skins rejected, stagey, from the islands of St. Paul and St. George from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 20,393 Total number of fur seals destroyed on St. Paul and St. George, in securing the catch, from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 16, 273 Total earnings received by natives of St. Paul and St. George from 1870 to 1889, inclusive. $755, 672.87 Total donations received by natives of St. Paul and St. George from 1870 to 1889, inclusive. 50, 608.11 Total paid to chiefs on St. Paul Island (St. George is included in donations), 1870 to 1889, inclusive 3,050.00 Total paid to St. George men for work done on St. Paullsland 25,780.40 Total paid to Kodiak men for work done on St. Paul Island 680.00 Total unaccounted for 19.25 Total paid to school-teacher 50.00 Total expended by the natives of St. Paul and St. George islands from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 643,963.10 Total balance due natives May 24, 1890, now held by North American Commercial Company 28,117.02 Total balance held by Alaska Commercial Company for Mrs. Melevidoff 3,404.99 755, 672.87 Total number of fur-seal pups (5 months old) killed for natives' food on St. Paul and St. George from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 92, 864 Total number of fur-seal pups (5 months old) killed for natives' food on St. Paul Island from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 63,804 Total number of fur-seal pups (5 months old) killed for natives' food on St. George Island from 1870 to 1889, inclusive 29,060 Special Agent Goff: inclosing report of Assistant Agent Nettleton. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, Clarksburg, W. Va., September 22, 1890. Sir : Inclosed please find report of assistant Treasury agent, Mr. S. R. Nettleton, who was in charge of St. Paul Island during the winter of 1889 and 1890. Respectfully, yours, Chas. J. Goff, Treasury Agent. Hon. William Windom, Secretary of the Treasury. Inclosure with Special Agent Goff's report of September^, 1890; report of Assistant Agent Nettleton. St. Paul Island, Alaska, July 31,1890. Dear Sir : I have the houor herewith to submit my annual report of the condition of affairs on this island during the time in which I had charge, to wit, from September 23, 1889, the date of your departure, until June of this year; and also to comment briefly upon the condition of the seal rookeries and hauling grounds of this island during the season which closed on the 20th instant. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 265 I have found the natives of this island an exceedingly easy people to govern and control. The Government agent in charge being the sole representative and executive of the law, is, as you are aware, necessarily brought into very close and intimate relations with these people, having to do with the minutest details of their everyday life. My comparatively brief experience in governing them convinces me that a policy of kindness, with firmness and an appeal to their manhood and womanhood, hold the best promise of good results, having in view their happiness and their advancement to a higher and a better civilization. I believe that it would be difficult to find anywhere within the jurisdiction of our Government any people so easy to control, considering that they are kept in enforced idleness ten months of each year. I regard their readiness to comply with any and all rules and regulations of this office for their government as testifying to their manhood and good citizenship. In this connection it affords me great pleasure to report that during the time that I have had immediate charge there have been but three instances of violation of any rule or regulation. These were mild cases of partial intoxication during their holiday festivities. There has been no drunkenness or brawling in the village streets or in the homes of the people; not a single breach of the peace. It is a source of gratification to be able to state that the journals of this office show that in this regard the winter just closed presents an exception to those of any of the preceding twenty years. The fact is patent that but little advancement has been made by the natives of this island toward an intelligent American citizenship during the twenty years that they have been nominally citizens of the Republic; that not to exceed 10 per cent of them, who during the time mentioned have attended English schools, speak the English language. This may be explained by the well-known objection of the parents to their children learning to speak English, and to the further fact that the services of their church, the Greek Catholic, are conducted wholly in the Russian and Aleutian languages. The small advancement made by the pupils in the schools is attributable, also, in large measure to the fact that the schools have been conducted by persons not trained to the profession of teaching. It is in my opinion to be regretted that the Department, in granting the new lease of the Seal Islands, did not reserve to itself the employment of the school-teachers, who should hold certificates showing their qualification to teach, at least, the primary branches in our common schools. In relation to the condition of the seal rookeries and hauling grounds of this island, I do not feel called upon to go into details in view of the full and exhaustive manner in which the subject is treated in your report of this year; and also in view of the forthcoming report of Prof. H. W. Elliott, who was sent by the Department especially to examine and report upon the condition of seal life on this and the island of St. George. But I desire to add my testimony to that of my associates as to the deplorable condition of the seal grounds upon this island. The large grass-grown areas of these grounds, until a comparatively recent period occupied en masse by seals to be numbered by the million, and now wholly deserted; the driving and redriving from all of the hauling grounds on this island by the lessees, during the present season, in their efforts to obtain their quota, and the meager results attained, tell 266 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. in stronger language than I can command the sad story of the very near approach to the entire destruction of seal life upon this island. It is hardly worth while for me to attempt to theorize as to the probable cause of the condition of affairs. I deem it sufficient for me at this time to corroborate and, if possible, to emphasize what you say in your own report as to the past, present, and the threatened future condition of seal life upon these islands. The present depleted condition of the seal rookeries on this island urgently calls for prompt action by the Government to save this important industry from immediate and complete destruction. I heartily concur with your views expressed in your annual report of 1889 in regard to the killing of pup seals for natives' food. The skins of these pup seals belong to the natives, to be disposed of by them as they choose, the only restriction imposed being that they shall not be exchanged for contraband goods. I desire, through you, to call the attention of the Department to the fact that these pup-seal skins, being largely held by the natives for the purpose of barter for spirituous liquors with the seamen of any craft that may anchor in these waters, are a source of evil, and only evil, to the natives. In view of this fact, and also in view of the further fact that the seal life on this island is rapidly approaching extinction, I respectfully suggest that the best interests of the natives and the best interests of the Government will be most effectually served by prohibiting the killing in the future of any pup seals for native food. Some more economical substitute can, in my judgment, be readily supplied. I am, very respectfully, R. Nettleton, Assistant Treasury Agent. Charles J. Gofe, Esq., United States Agent, in charge of Seal Islands. Reports of Special Agents Williams, Murray, Lavender, and J. Stanley- Brown for 1891 and 1892, reprinted from Senate Ex. Doc. 107, Fifty- second Congress, second session. 1891. LETTER OF INSTRUCTION TO SPECIAL AGENT WILLIAMS. May 27, 1891. Sir: Having been appointed as Treasury agent in charge at the seal islands, you are instructed to secure by personal application at the Department and from other sources, and in such manner as you may deem proper, as full information as is practicable on the subject of your duties. You are required to leave Washington in time to reach San Francisco, to proceed on the United States revenue cutter Bush, which has orders to sail on the 27th of May for the islands of St. Paul and St. George. Mr. Nettleton, one of the Treasury agents for the islands, came down last fall after the season's work was over, and will return with you on the cutter. He will be accompanied by Mrs. Kettleton, who goes to teach the school upon the island where her husband may be. stationed. Upon arriving at the island, you will at once assume charge of the interests and property of the Government, and see to it that your authority is respected in all quarters. You will place Mr. Murray in charge at St. George, and send one of the agents to aid him, the other remaining to assist you. In no event should either of the islands be left without a Treasury agent upon them. It will be your duty to see that the lessees of the islands are permitted to take the quota of skins allowed them for the present year if male seal of the proper size come upon the rookeries in sufficient numbers to enable them to do so without causing permanent injury to the herds, and to secure to the natives all the comforts and privileges to which they are entitled under the provisions of the lease. The perpetuation of seal life is the paramount interest of the Government and of all concerned. The catch to be taken, during the season of 1891 is hereby fixed at 60,000, and the standard or minimum weight of skin is placed at 5 pounds. The killing season will begin as soon after your arrival as in your judgment the rookeries are' in the proper condition for driving, and the time for taking seal is left entirely to your discretion, with the exception that no seal are to be taken during the stagey period, which is understood to embrace the time between the 10th of August and the 30th of September. You should, however, have no difficulty in determining this; as the natives are well informed as to the peculiarities of seal life; 267 ■■■ 268 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. and as the skins are much less valuable when taken during the process of the shedding of the hair, the company will not wish to secure them in this condition. If the seal are present of proper size and in such numbers as to permit, without permanent injury to the herd, the company's taking the "catch" as stated, you will allow them to do so, and you are to use your best judgment in determining when the season will close. Should the maximum number for the year not be secured before the stagey period begins, and in your opinion seal of proper size can be taken after it is over without harm to the rookeries, you are authorized to permit the company to resume killing with a view to filling the quota. Tbe catch of 60,000, or such lesser number as may be taken, should be apportioned between the two islands. The original law mentioned 75,000 for St. Paul and 25,000 for St. George; later changed by order of the Secretary of the Treasury to 85,000 for St. Paul and 15,000 for St. George, and you may follow this ratio or change it as the circumstances may require, taking care that in any event not more than 15,000 are killed upon the Island of Sr. George. The Department desires you to make careful daily examination during the sealing season as to the habits, numbers, and conditions of the seal and seal rookeries, with a view to reporting from your observation and such knowledge on the subject as you may have whether, in your opinion, the seal are diminishing, and, if so, the causes therefor. Comments upon any other matters of interest pertinent in this connection which you may think proper to make will not be out of place. The care and welfare of the natives are matters which should receive your careful attention, and among your most important duties is the insistence that the North American Commercial Company shall fulfill all the obligations of their lease toward these people. The Government maintains a protectorate over them, and they look to its agents to see that their employers, the lessees, carry out in good faith-all that they promise. It will be within your province to learn the prices charged at the company's stores and to compare them with the prices at San Francisco, and to report to the Department whether the natives are charged more than a fair sum for the articles sold them. The supplies provided should also be inspected as to quality and quantity, and if deficient, notice of the fact should be sent to the Department. The instructions of the agent last year were such that he felt compelled to stop the killing when the company had taken but 21,000 skins, and it is not believed that the money earned by the natives in killing this number of seal was sufficient to provide them with the amount of food required, above what is furnished by the company under its lease, and to buy the necessary clothing which they need in addition to that which they make from skins. In view of the increased market value of the skins since the lease to the present company and the large per cent of profit derived, together with the reduced " catch," which lessens the opportunity for earning enough for their subsistence, it has been determined by the Department, and is hereby ordered, that the compensation to be paid to the natives for killing, salting, curing, and loading the seal skins on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer shall be 50 cents for each skin, for the year ending April 30,1892. Before leaving the islands you will divide the total earnings of the natives for the season's "catch" among them according to their respective classifications, and make a report of such division, showing the amount apportioned to each native participating in the community fund, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 269 transmitting with your report to this Department copy to be furnished you by the lessees. The Department desires you to take an accounting of all the provi sions furnished by the company (other than what is specified in the lease) to the natives during the past winter and spring, for which they were unable to pay, with a view to making some equitable settlement of the matter. It has been represented to the Department that the company has shown a disinclination to provide gratuitously for the widows and their children, the old and feeble among the inhabitants, those who by reason of age or infirmity are unable to work. The provisions of the lease in this regard are clear and explicit, and require the company to take care of this class of people, and you will impress upon the company's agents the fact that this is as much a part of their contract as is the taking of seals. It is believed that the practice of killing pup seal for food for the natives should cease. The tlesh of the larger seal is said to be quite palatable and equally good for food. The law gives the natives the privilege of killing such young seal as may be necessary for their own food and clothing, but provides that such killing shall be limited and controlled by such regulations as may be prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury. The skins of the pup seal are not used for clothing and are of little value. You are instructed to make investigation as to the expediency and advisability of prohibiting the killing, for any purposes, of seal (except in special instances to provide clothing for the inhabitants), the skins of which will not be accepted by the company on their quota. Every little seal that the natives take, if not killed, would have the same chance as the rest to return the following year, and in time become a source of revenue to the Government. You are authorized to take any steps which your judgment may dictate to carry out in whole or in part the suggestions herein advanced. You will also use whatever endeavor is possible by making known more generally the law on the subject, to prevent the killing of seal on the shores and in the vicinity of the Aleutian chain of islands. The natives there have petitioned the Department to permit them to take sufficient seal to furnish food and clothing for themselves and their families, but the law is imperative and limits to the Pribilof group of islands the power of the Secretary to authorize the taking of seal. The question of the depopulation of the islands of St. Paul aud St. George is a serious one and demands attention. Through some false notions, said to have been inculcated among the natives by the church authorities on the islands, they are not permitted to intermarry if there is between them the remotest degree of consanguinity, and even the relation of godfather or godmother is held to be sufficient to prevent a union. As the regulations prevent any male person from going to the islands to reside permanently, there is a dearth of young men, and the young women are more apt to find husbands elsewhere. The number of natives on the islands is gradually diminished and each year laborers are taken there for the season from Unalaska and vicinity. It is understood that residence upon the Pribilof group of islands is considered by the Aleuts to be very desirable and to insure a comparatively comfortable existence, which they do not always have in other parts of Alaska. You will, therefore, take into consideration the proposition to recruit the permanent inhabitants of the islands of St. Paul and St..George by placing upon them next year a small number (ten or twenty) of young men, or transferring to these islands several j «■■ ^ 270 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. families in which are a number of young men. It is thought that there will be no trouble in finding suitable persons willing to go there, and it may be well to canvass the matter among the people now living upon the islands and devise some way of making the selection. Care should of course be taken not to add to the number of sick or infirm persons already there, but the bringing of men from the Aleutian chain to remain for the season only has a demoralizing effect, both upon them and upon the permanent residents of the islands. Inclosed are copies of the lease and laws under which it was made, and you are empowered to make any additions to the regulations already in force as may be necessary for the guidance of the officers of the Department, the company's agents, and the natives, in the government of the islands. The Government's agents should be as free as possible from dependence in any way upon the favor of the lessees, and to this end, where possible, they should live in the houses provided for them. The agents, when married men, should be encouraged to take their wives with them and to provide themselves as far as possible with facilities for keeping house. This would tend to a better state of discipline on the islands and offer more wholesome examples in the way of civilization to the inhabitants. Mrs. Nettleton will accompany her husband, and you are hereby directed to place her in charge of one of the schools, and to determine with the company a fair compensation for her services, which will be paid by them in accordance with the terms of their lease. The schools will be maintained from September 1 to May 31, and be open five days in the week, Saturday being regarded as a day of rest for the teacher and recreation for the children. It will be the principal duty of the teacher to instruct the children in acquiring a knowledge of the English language. Russian is not to be taught in the schools, and the church officers must be restrained from interfering with the children in acquiring a knowledge of English, and should be advised that they will only do harm if they attempt to thwart the purpose of the Government in having the children educated in the language of their country. The North American Commercial Company, under their lease, have the exclusive privilege to trade in seal skins on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, and it is believed that the best interests of the natives will be subserved by excluding all traders from the islands. You will, therefore, regard it a special duty to see that fair prices are paid for all fur skins disposed of by the natives to the company. You will, during the killing season, personally superintend on the grounds, and while the lessees will have control and direction of the native labor while driving and killing, yet it must be remembered by all on the islands that you are the officer in charge, and if you discover any faulty methods, or can suggest any changes for the better, prompted by humane or other considerations, you should not hesitate to direct such changes to be made, and the company's representatives are expected to carry out your suggestions in good faith and spirit. You will endeavor to secure the good will and confidence of the native inhabitants of the islands, and advise them, whenever practicable, of their rights and duties as American citizens, and by proper means try to increase their friendship for the Government and the people of the United States. It is desired that you make a thorough examination of«the houses of the natives, and insist that the company shall make such repairs as are needed to render them comfortable. The question of an insufficient ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 271 number of houses for the natives is one of importance and upon which information is required; suggestions are also inyited as to improvements which can and should be made by the company to maintain and insure the health of the inhabitants. Hygienic and sanitary conditions should be looked into and recommendations made. You will use every endeavor and take all necessary precaution to secure the interests of the Government and of the inhabitants of the islands, and, at the same time, to protect the lessees in the enjoyment of all the rights and privileges granted to them under the lease. In case of any difference or dispute between the natives and the agents of the lessees in reference to any matter whatsoever, you will adjust it in a fair and impartial manner, and both parties must abide by your decision. When the sealing season is over you will return to San Francisco on one of the United States revenue cutters, if practicable, and come at once to Washington to submit your report. Before leaving the islands you will arrange to have a Treasury agent remain on each of them during the winter. These instructions apply to both islands, and a copy should be given the agent in charge of St. George for his guidance there. Respectfully, yours, Charles Foster, Secretary. Maj. W. H. Williams, Special Treasury Agent, Care of Revenue Cutter Rush. Annual Report of Special Agent Williams, for 1891. Washington, D. C, December 3,1891. Sir: In pursuance of instructions contained in Department's telegram of May 27,1891,1 left San Francisco on that date on the revenue cutter Rush, arrived at St. Paul, Alaska, on the evening of June 10, and at once assumed the duties assigned me. I found Assistant Agent Joseph Murray in charge at St. Paul, and Assistant Agent A. W. Lavender in charge at St. George Island, and as both preferred to have their official stations remain as they were, it was so arranged. Assistant Agent S. R. Nettleton remained on St. Paul until the last of July and was then assigned to St. George to assist Agent Lavender and to take charge on that island about September 1, at which time Agent Lavender had permission to proceed to San Francisco. Treasury Inspector Milton Barnes was assigned to assist Agent Murray on St. Paul Island, and to take charge of the Government interests and relieve Agent Murray September 1, the latter having permission to return to San Francisco at that time. Agent Nettleton is accompanied by Mrs. Nettleton, who will teach school on St. George Island, her compensation to be determined at close of school year, and after consultation with the president of the North Ameiican Commercial Company, Mr. Simeon Melivedoff, a native sealer has been placed in charge of the schools on St. Paul Island by the lessees. His compensation, I understand, has been fixed at $50 per month. The lessees were prohibited from killing seals for the season of 1890 after July 20. The first killing for food after that date was made by on mm*** 272 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. tne natives July 28, and from that time to December 31,1890, there were killed for food by the natives 2,750 seals; the skins of 106 were small and stagey and were given to the natives, and the remaining 2,644 (1,231 of which were stagey) were placed in the salt houses by the Government agents. From January 1 to May 1,1891, no seals were on the islands, hence none were taken. From May 1 to June 10,1891, the latter being the date of my arrival at the islands, there were 1,651 seals killed by the natives for food, making a total of 4,295 seals killed for that purpose, the skins of which were in the salt houses on my arrival. The foregoing number includes about 50 skins, mostly rejected, from former year's catch, and 147 skins taken from cow seals killed on the island of St. George in September, 1890, by raiders, who were driven off before they had secured their plunder, but does not include 3,468 small pup seals killed by the natives in November and December of last year, the skins of which were used by them for clothing and other purposes. On the morning of June 11, 1891, I gave permission to the lessees to commence killing on a quota of 7,500, as. directed in Department telegram of May 27. (Exhibit A.) From June 11 to June 15, 2,920 seals were killed by the lessees as a part of their quota of 7,500, and the skins were placed in the salt houses. The 4,295 seals killed for food by the natives, together with the 2,920 seals above referred to, made a total of 7,215 seals killed prior to June 15, 1891. The President's proclamation of the modus vivendi, dated June 15, 1891 (Exhibit B), was received on St. Paul Island July 2 and on St. George July 8. From June 15 to these dates 4,471 seals were killed by the lessees as a part of the 7,500 quota allowed them by Department instructions of May 27. After careful consideration of the modus vivendi by myself and the other agents, it was determined that the 4,471 seals killed after June 15 should be deducted from the 7,500 specified in Article II of the International Agreement, thus leaving 3,029 seals to betaken for the " subsistence and care of the natives" from July 2,1891, to May 1, ls92. I found it necessary to kill 1,796 of this latter number fop food prior to August 11. A portion of the meat was salted by the natives for use during the stagey season, which is usually from August 10 to about November 1, during which time the skins are unmerchantable on account of the seals shedding their hair. Under the modus vivendi this left 1,233 seals upon which to maintain the natives until May next, a number much too small for that purpose, and I was compelled to ask the North American Commercial Company to bring salt beef to the islands for issue to the natives. Daily statements of the killing of fur seals on the islands of St. Paul and St. George from July 28, 1890, to August 11,1891, are herewith inclosed. (Exhibits O and D.) The lessees by actual count removed from the islands this year 12,251 prime skins, on which they should pay the Government tax, also 1,231 stagey skins, which are subject to settlement hereafter as indicated in Department telegram of May 21 to me (Exhibit E), making a total of 13,482 skins. (Exhibits F and G.) The above does not include one old bull and one medium-sized bull taken by the agent of the Smithsonian Institution to be used as specimens at the Columbian Exposition at Chicago, one large bachelor seal taken for the National Museum at Victoria, and two live specimens presented to the zoological gardens in San Francisco by the lessees. The first appearance this year of bulls on the rookeries wa,s May 1, ■ ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 273 cows June 10, pups June 13. The records for the last twenty years show that the first bulls appear upon the rookeries from April 26 to May 17, first cows May 24 to June 16, and first pups May 31 to June 25. The cows this year came very slowly upon the rookeries until the evening of June 27, and from that time until July 13 they came in much greater numbers. A few arrived as late as July 20. In nearly every instance they gave birth to -their young soon after arrival. The harems commenced to lose their compact form about July 18, and to break up a few days later, so that by August 1 cows, pups, and bachelors were mingling together, and it was about this time that we first noticed the young cows on the rookeries in any considerable numbers. The habits, numbers, and condition of the seals, the perpetuation of seal life, and the causes which have led to the depleted state of the rookeries and hauling grounds are subjects to which I have given particular attention. The Pribilof Islands, isolated in the midst of the waters of the Bering Sea, appear to be especially adapted by situation and climatic surroundings to be the natural home of the fur seals, which, with an instinct bordering on intelligence, frequent this locality where they may be free from the disturbing influences of human civilization, and it would seem that too much care can not be taken that they be not unnecessarily disturbed or driven from their breeding grounds. It was in relation to this latter point that I directed careful examinations of the rookeries and "hauling" grounds to be made at intervals during the past season by the assistant special agents on the islands, with a view to learn, if possible, whether the seals were decreasing and, if so, the causes thereof. On comparing their notes at the end of the season I found that they all agreed that the seals were decreasing very rapidly and that the cause of the decrease was pelagic, or deep-sea, hunting. I am convinced that the conclusion arrived at is the correct one, and any attempt to make it appear to be due to other causes is not warranted by the facts. That the seals are not so numerous as formerly is evident to all who view the rookeries and "hauling" grounds now vacant, and which in years past were covered by vast herds of seals. In addition to this latter evidence the unanimous testimony of the natives, company and Government agents, who have been on the islands for many seasons, is so positive that this decrease has taken place in the last few years that no unprejudiced person can doubt it. For nearly twenty years prior to 1889 the lessees were able to kill 100,000 male seals, and several of the special agents during that period were of the opinion that there could often have been taken 200,000 without injury to the herds. The rapid decrease in seal life from year to year was first noticed by those best competent to judge between 1884 and 1889, which was the period when the sealing fleet increased so enormously and perfected the system of taking seals in the open sea. During the season of 1890 the lessees secured only 21,000 skins, and the Government agents reported that they could not have obtained many more had they been permitted to continue the killing to the end of the season. This year the lessees were limited to 7,500, and I am of the opinion that had they been permitted to kill every male seal on the rookeries, other than old bulls, yearlings, and young pups, it is questionable whether they could have secured over 35,000 skins, and not all of these, by any means, would have been merchantable. I have no hesitation in saying that the decrease of seal life is due to the pelagic, H. Doc. 92 18 Hi H 274 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. or deep-sea, hunting, and the only remedy therefor is its immediate suppression. There are but few months in the year when seals are not pursued and killed in the sea by all the devices that the ingenuity of man has invented. Hunters follow them from the time they leave the islands in December until they return in May or June, and not content with what they destroy in the open sea, with a brutal .disregard for every interest except their own, hover about the islands a few miles offshore and watch for an opportunity, under cover of night or dense fog, to raid the rookeries. It is useless to talk of a 3-mile limit or any other limit in the open sea. A hundred sealing schooners, restricted only by such limits, may practically destroy the seals in one season. The claim that there should be a closed season on the islands during the breeding months, to wit, June and July, is the most absurd of all the propositions made. This is the time when the skins of the young male seals are the most valuable and most easily secured, and I am of opinion that, under proper restrictions prescribed by the Government no harm can come to the breeding rookeries by the practice now adopted during this period, but, on the contrary, that this great industry will be built up and perpetuated thereby. Even in the condition of the hauling grounds this year the killing of male seals on the islands did not injure the breeding herds, and more could have been taken with the same result. The numbers to be taken from time to time should, within certain limits, be left to the discretion of the agent in charge, who need not necessarily be a scientist, but should have a knowledge of the laws and conditions that govern the propagation of animal life. The question is often asked "Where do the seals go when they leave the islands'?" and some writers have attempted to throw a cloud of mystery over the answer; but where can we find better evidence than that furnished by the pelagic hunters'? They cruise about the islands and passes of the Aleutian Archipelago and follow the seals as they go out to feed along the fishing banks on our western coast as far south as Cape St. Lucas, and returning in the spring, they hunt them all the way along this coast and into the Bering Sea. The number of seals taken every spring by the hunters in the open sea has increased to such enormous proportions that the skins are known to commerce as the spring catch, and are advertised and sold accordingly. In procuring this spring catch great damage is done to seal life, for it is in the spring that the cows are so easily approached and killed, being less active and unable to travel as rapidly as the males, owing to their being heavy with young. When male seals are killed on the islands, it is a common thing to find bullets and buckshot in many of them, which shows that even the most active were not able to escape the rifle of the hunter. Many of the hunters admit the fact that by far the greater number of seals killed at sea are lost. Some assert that only one in fifteen is secured, while others claim that not more than six out of seven of all that are shot are lost. Although I conversed with many who were well posted on this subject, I failed to find one who would deny that the number of skins secured by the hunters was very much less than the number lost. Interested parties claim that the cows do not travel far from the islands in search of food; that those killed at sea are nearly all barren, and that their destruction does not affect the condition of the rookeries. In reply to this I have to say that it is susceptible of proof that cows ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 275 shot by hunters on marauding vessels operating this season about 200 miles from the seal islands were found to be mothers giving milk. Agent Murray also reports that on August 19, in company with the British commissioners, he visited Tolstoi rookery, on St. Paul Island, and found thousands of dead pups, the mothers of which had been killed at sea, and he further says that in his judgment 20,000 to 30,000 dead pups were lying on the rookeries of the islands starved to death because of the destruction of the cows during their journey to and from the feeding grounds. It is known that after giving birth to their young the mothers leave the rookeries and go out to sea for food, of which fact the hunters, who resort to the feeding grounds and slaughter the seals in great numbers, are well aware. Further testimony upon this subject, supported by photographic evidence, will be given by Mr. J. Stanley-Brown in his report to the Department, he having visited the rookeries at a later date than that given above. It is claimed that the devastation of the rookeries is partly due to overdriving the seals from the hauling to the killing grounds; of the injury which may have been done in the past from that cause I personally can not speak, but overdriving did not occur this year. The agents who have been on the islands the last two years report that the driving has been carefully done at all times. But admitting all that is asserted in this respect, and that in times past, when the lessees were taking 100,000 seals every year, some were occasionally driven farther or oftener than they should have been, the damage was to males only and not to the females. It is to be remembered that none but young male seals are ever driven or killed upon the islands, and even were a portion of them injured or destroyed by overdriving, which is denied by the agents of the company as well as by those of the Government, so long as there were enough males left to replenish the rookeries there could be no injury done to the breeding herds. This is a well-known principle in the breeding of domestic animals, and is equally true in the propagation of seals. It has been reported that there was a dearth of bulls last year, and consequently a large number of barren cows. This is one of the points to which I gave particular attention, and, after a careful examination of the rookeries, found that the claim was altogether untenable, for not one-tenth of 1 per cent of the cows this year were without pup seals at their sides. A careful count of all the idle bulls (bulls without harems) between the dates of July 12 and 20, inclusive, revealed the fact that there were over 1,200 vigorous bulls without cows on the breeding rookeries of St. Paul Island. There were hundreds of bulls, too, with only one to* four cows each, and many hundreds mixed up with the bachelors who were unable to gain a foothold upon the breeding rookeries. Twenty-five per cent of some of the drives were bulls, large enough to go upon the breeding grounds, and had evidently been driven off by the older and stronger ones after a hard contest, as was shown by the numerous wounds on their bodies. There were also hundreds of idle bulls in the shallow water in front of the rookeries lying upon rocks, but unable to secure a location on the breeding grounds. I therefore conclude that whatever may have been the condition in former years relative to an insufficiency of bulls, there certainly was a surplus this year. Less than 30,000 male seals have been killed on the islands by the lessees in the last two years, consequently large numbers have grown to maturity and have attempted to establish them- • 276 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. selves upon the rookeries. During a much longer period there has been a rapid decrease of cow seals, due to pelagic hunting, and there need be no fear of insufficiency of males for some years to come. The President's proclamation of the modus vivendi dated June 15, 1891, prohibited the killing of seals in Bering Sea until May next. English and American vessels of war were sent to patrol its waters and enforce the terms of the international agreement. Notwithstanding their efforts, the catch of the sealing fleet this season is estimated to be not less than 60,000 seal, or about eight times as many as were permitted to be taken on the islands for the " subsistence and care of the natives," and when it is taken into consideration that each one captured represents at least five killed and lost, a fair idea may be obtained of the great destruction to seal life that took place this year. I left the islands August 11, and it was currently reported at that time that sealing vessels were still in the sea engaged in the unlawful pursuit of taking seals. Two of these vessels were ordered out of the sea a day or two previous with about 4,000 skins on board. Agent Nettleton reports that on October 3 two schooners were sighted a few miles off St. George Island. It is further claimed that the sealing schooner Otto, of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, was permitted to clear from Victoria, British Columbia, July 3, for the Bering Sea, and in a published interview in the Victoria Daily Times of July 16, 1891, Collector Milne states that he had no authority to cease clearing vessels for the Bering Sea. If this is true, it will account for the number of vessels found in these waters so late in the season. Although it was well known to hunters early in July that it was unlawful to kill seals after June 15, they were also aware that their vessels could not be seized until notified to leave the sea by some officer having authority to enforce his demand; consequently they remained in and about these waters hunting seals and avoiding the war vessels and revenue cutters, knowing that if they were spoken all they had to do was to plead ignorance, and they would be permitted to leave with their plunder. I inclose a list of 58 vessels (Exhibit H) as reported September 30, whose spring and fall catch amounted to 52,087 skins, and as there were over 100 vessels in the sea this year it is fair to presume that the number caught will exceed the estimate of 60,000 and means the destruction of at least 400,000 seals, 80 per cent of which were undoubtedly females. Such waste of valuable animal life is without parallel in the history of civilized nations, and calls for speedy remedy, or these great breeding grounds, the largest in the world, will become depopulated and worthless. It has been the practice for many years to permit the natives on the islands, during the months of November and December, to kill such young seals as they desired, with the understanding that it was authorized by section 1960 Revised Statutes, and that such killing was necessary to furnish food -and clothing. I found on inquiry that the skins of young seals are not used for clothing, but are sold for little or nothing or traded off for contraband articles that the natives would be much better without. Agent Lavender made a careful investigation of the amount of meat suitable for food on the carcass of an ordinary young seal and found it to be less than 8 pounds, so that, in quantity, as a food supply, it is of little importance, although the meat is very much relished by the natives. In view of the above facts and my instructions upon that subject, I directed that no.young seals be killed this year, nor hereafter until such time as the Secretary of the Treasury might direct. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 277 The care and welfare of the natives and t\\e obligations of the North American Commercial Company, under their lease, to these people are subjects to which I have given careful attention. The supplies provided by the company for the last year and kept on sale at the company's stores were of good, substantial quality, and were sold at very reasonable prices. I note one exception to the above statement, and that is the price charged for coal—$33.60 per ton. I deem this to be exorbitant, and see no good reason why the natives should be charged any more than the price paid for coal furnished the Government house, to wit, $15 per ton. The question of sufficient fuel on the islands is a serious one, and demands careful consideration by the Department. The lessees are required, under their lease, to furnish 80 tons of coal, and this, with what driftwood can be secured and the blubber taken from seals during the killing season, is expected to provide fuel sufficient for about 60 families in a climate where it is necessary to have a fire every day in the year. The driftwood is very hard to secure, of limited supply, very poor in quality, and in most cases is thrown upon the shores miles from the villages. They have no means of transporting it except on their backs or on hand sleds drawn over the crusted snow in midwinter. The blubber is stored in barrels and boxes for winter supply, and in a short time becomes rancid, the stench arising from its use permeates every part of their dwellings, and is unhealthy, sickening, and disgusting. Other fuel should be substituted, even if it has to be done at the expense of the Government. Under Department instructions of May 21 last (Exhibit I) I increased the amount of coal from 80 to 160 tons, giving 100 tons to natives on St. Paul and 60 tons to natives on St. George Islands. This, with what other fuel they have on hand, will make them fairly comfortable for the winter. 1 would recommend that hereafter arrangements be made by which the inhabitants on St. George shall have 100 and on St. Paul 200 tons of coal. This would require 220 tons to be furnished by the Government in addition to the 80 tons furnished by the company, and would give 5 tons to each family. I consider this amount actually necessary for the comfort and health of these people, and the cost to the Government would partly compensate the natives for months of watching, day and night, on the rookeries—a service for which the Government has paid them nothing up to the present time. The 80 tons of coal furnished the natives in excess of the 80 tons required under the terms of the lease were duly delivered in the Government coal houses, and the lessees are entitled to and should receive a reasonable compensation therefor. The Government agent on each island has been directed to make weekly issue to the natives of all coal furnished, keeping in view the necessity of its economical use, and at the same time being watchful that.there is no suffering among the natives for want of sufficient fuel. Owing to the limited catch of the last two years and to the further fact that no seals are to be killed for food during the stagy season, nor pups at any time, it will become necessary to furnish some substitute for their natural food supply, and I addressed a letter to the lessees' agent upon that subject (Exhibit J). The lease provides that the natives shall be furnished with a sufficient supply of dried salmon. For some reason salt salmon has been substituted therefor. It is not relished by the natives, and they utterly refuse to use it, except in very limited quantities. The lessees should be required to comply with the terms of their lease and either furnish a supply of good dried salmon or substitute some other meat relished by the natives. It has been the mmam ■■■ ■■■ 278 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. practice for many years to prohibit the use of sugar, claiming that the natives are liable to abuse the privilege aud make quas. If this danger has existed in times past it does not now exist to any great extent, and it seems unjust to punish a whole community for what one or two ignorant persons may do. I had several conversations with the chiefs and principal men on that subject. They express a strong desire that their people might be permitted to purchase sugar, and I was fully assured that they would use their best endeavors to see that the privilege was not abused. In my judgment the physical decline of these people is largely due to their mode of living, and they will become much more robust when they are permitted to purchase good, substantial food instead of depending almost wholly on seal meat and crackers. In the past they have been cared for very much as an animal would be cared for by its owner. Their physical necessities have been in the main fairly well supplied, but their moral, social, and civil rights have been almost wholly ignored, and they have been treated more like beasts of burden and slaves than as American citizens. Had a policy of kindness to the native man and protection to his wife and daughter been pursued in the past we would, no doubt, find them much further advanced in civilization and a much more healthy and useful people; and while there has been considerable improvement in many respects during the last year over what it must have been but a short time previous, still there is need of a decided stand to be taken by the Government. Its officers should be given power to remove any person from the islands who is insubordinate or who violates the laws of decency or in any way interferes with the civil rights of the natives. I find these people civil, obedient, kind, and easily governed, and any system of labor or government which tends to degrade their family relations or takes away or destroys their rights as American citizens ought not to be tolerated. Hygienic and sanitary conditions on both islands are much in need of improvement. The lessees should be required to provide each family with a suitable outhouse, and the system of cesspools now in use should be abandoned. The company claims it is not a part of their lease to furnish these outhouses, but I would respectfully call attention to that part of the lease which says the lessees will use " all reasonable efforts to secure the comfort, health, education, and promote the morals and civilization of said native inhabitants." I endeavored to establish a system of inspection, and requested the physicians to act as sanitary officers and report each day on the sanitary and hygienic conditions of the villages, and to suggest such improvements as they might deem necessary; but I was at once given notice that the physicians were company employees, and any reports they had to make would be made to the company's agent only. The physicians are, above all others, fitted by education and experience to intelligently report upon these subjects and suggest remedies, and while those now on the islands are very good men and, I believe, are fairly well qualified to perform their duties, yet it has not always been so, and I most earnestly recommend that hereafter they may be subject to Department regulations. The houses on St. Paul Island are sufficient to accommodate the natives. Many of them are in need of repairs, which I was informed by the company's agent would be attended to in a few days. The houses on St. George are not sufficiently numerous to prevent overcrowding, but I was also informed that this would be attended to this coming autumn. Especial attention is invited to the schools on the seal islands. They have been in operation over twenty years, and yet they have not sue- ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 279 ceeded in teaching a pupil to read or write a sentence in the English language. Schools in charge of good, competent teachers, who have other qualifications than those of being bookkeepers or seal clubbers, should be insisted upon by the Department, and the school season should be changed from the short, cold, dark, and blustering days of winter, when, on account of the inclemency of the weather, the school has to be discontinued for days at a time, to the more pleasant months of summer. Radical changes are absolutely necessary in these respects if it is the desire of our Government to civilize, educate, and improve this people. They should not only be taught the rudiments of the English language, but also habits of industry, economy, cleanliness, and morality. That these people are quick to learn and susceptible to rapid improvement is demonstrated in the charity school at Unalaska, conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Tuck. Six of the most promising orphans on the islands were sent there in September, 1890, and I found on Visiting the school this year that they could talk the English language quite fluently and read and write quite intelligently. The teachers as well as the physicians should be employees of the Government, and be entirely removed from the control and influence of local company agents. This view of the subject is held by all the agents and by all other officials who have visited the islands and had their attention called to the subject. The maintenance of the widows and orphans and aged and infirm is construed by the lessees to apply to the supply of food only; consequently, clothing and fuel up to the present time have had to be furnished from the natives' earnings or from other sources. The terms of the lease are as follows: "And will provide the necessaries of life for the widows and orphans and aged and infirm inhabitants of said islands who are unable to provide for themselves." I take it that fuel and clothing are as much the necessaries of life as food. The lessees' agent agreed to provide fuel and clothing for this unfortunate class for the coming year, but denies that ifc is a part of the conditions of their lease, and requests that the Department rule upon the subject. A portion of my instructions required me to take an accounting of all the necessary supplies furnished the natives by the lessees, other than those required to be furnished under their lease, and for which the natives are unable to pay. I find that by good management the natives were well provided for last winter and spring, and but few of them were in debt, and those for only small amounts, which I adjusted in the division of earnings ($1,665.20), the proceeds of certain food skins taken in 1890 (Exhibits K and L), which I paid over to them July 4 of this year under Department instructions of May 7. The division of the natives' earnings for this year's catch was made at the close of the present season. My right to do so or the Secretary's authority to make such a regulation was seriously questioned by the lessees' agent, and he strongly protested against my action, but my instructions were so clear upon that subject that, after having consulted the native chiefs as to the wishes of the people, I made the division as directed, and, as I believe, to the satisfaction of the native inhabitants. (Exhibits M and N.) Owing to the small catch this year, and to the further fact that the savings of the natives from former years are exhausted in most cases, it was necessary to make some arrangement for their maintenance during the coming winter. I addressed a letter to the general agent of the lessees on the subject, and he assured me that necessary supplies would be issued as requested. Subsequent to this, and while in San Francisco, the lessees' agent iH ■Mi 280 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. showed me a list of natives, with different sums placed to the credit of each, and asked my opinion as to whether the amount would be necessary for their maintenance during the coming year. I replied "Yes," but I thought it very doubtful if the Government would reimburse the lessees for money paid the natives, but that an itemized account should be kept of all the supplies furnished them for which they were unable to pay, and that the Government agent in charge of each island should be consulted as to the necessities of the persons seeking relief. The gradual decrease of population on the islands of St. George and St. Paul is a subject to which I gave careful consideration. Owing to the limited catch this year and the unfavorable opportunity for those already upon the islands to earn enough to support themselves, I did not deem it advisable to encourage immigration. One of the customs of the church authorities on these islands is to prohibit any of its followers to intermarry if there is the remotest degree of consanguinity, and even the relation of godfather or godmother is held to be sufficient to prevent a union. Consequently I found most of the young people on the islands, of suitable age, prevented from marrying on account of relationship. Hygienic and sanitary laws, religious customs, and civil privileges all enter into this question, and require good judgment in arriving at a wise conclusion. I conferred with the natives on the subject and suggested certain conditions whereby permanent residents might be brought upon the islands, and it apparently met their approval, but it further developed the fact that the practice of bringing people from Unalaska or any other place to work during the sealing season nas a demoralizing eflect upon the native inhabitants and should never be permitted under any circumstances. Whenever practicable, Government agents, teachers, and physicians who are to remain on the islands a year or longer should be accompanied by their wives. The example and teachings of white ladies would have a most wholesome effect upon the native women, and their. presence would act as a moral restraint to prevent many of the irregularities complained of in times past. The native priests can neither speak nor write a word of English, and it would seem as if the Greek Church was opposed to that language being spoken on these islands, for they persist in sending priests to the islands who can speak the Russian language only. While there is no disposition on my part to interfere with religious worship, I submit the suggestion that the authorities of the Greek Church be required to send to the islands only such priests as are capable of conducting their church services in the English language. As it is at present, the action of the priests neutralizes most of the efforts that are being made for the education and improvement of this people. A man calling himself Bishop Valdimer, of the Greek Church, visited the islands just before my arrival and made a demand on the local priests and natives for certain moneys in their possession, to wit, $1,294.55 on St. George and $3,325 on St. Paul. The amount on St. George Island stood to the credit of the church on the lessees' books. The bishop demanded a draft for the same, which the lessee's agent gave him, and it was paid by the company in San Francisco. The $3,325 on St. Paul was left at the company's office by Valdimer for transportation to San Francisco. In the meantime there came to my notice a circular letter (Exhibit O) which alleged that this man Valdimer was a fraud. I then addressed a communication to the lessee's agent (Exhibit P) requesting him not, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 281 to ship this money until the matter could be investigated and the facts laid before the Department. This he consented to do, and the amount, $3,325, is now in liis safe on St. Paullsland. As the natives are without sufficient means of support for the ensuing year, and the Government will be called upon to assist them, I regard the taking of this money from them under the circumstances as an outrage which should not be permitted. I am informed that it has been the practice for the islands to be visited at stated periods by persons claiming to have some religious authority, who demand from the natives a part of their earnings. Not a dollar is ever returned to them, but it is taken out of the country and said to be used in private speculation. I understand that an effort was made to have this so-called bishop, above referred to, consent to a part of the money being used in the education and maintenance of some orphans, who are now being supported by charity at the Unalaska school, but the greed and avarice of this man would be satisfied with nothing but Shy lock measure. He should never have been permitted to come upon the islands, and the lessees and the revenue cutters should be made to understand that they must land no one on the islands without the consent of the Secretary of the Treasury or of the Government agent in charge. I also learned that there is about $1,500 in the hands of the North American Commercial Company which was raised by the natives some twelve years ago for the purpose of having their church services translated, but it has not been used for that purpose and probably never will be. I would suggest that I be authorized to redistribute this money to the natives as well as the $3,325 before mentioned, and to forward a copy of such division to the Department. Several hundred blue foxes were caught on the islands last year and the hunting of them was carried to such an extent that to keep them from being exterminated it was thought advisable to stop the killing for at least one year, and I gave instructions to that effect, but my right to do so or the right of the Secretary of the Treasury to make any regulation protecting or regulating the capture of this valuable fur-bearing animal is denied by the lessees' agent, and the claim is made by him that the foxes on the islands belong to the North American Commercial Company. It is further claimed that said company bought the right to own the foxes from the Alaska Commercial Company, who were the former lessees of the islands, and whom, it was also claimed, put the foxes on the islands and were therefore the owners of them. I made an investigation of the subject and found that foxes were plentiful upon the islands at the time of purchase from the Russian Government, and in all probability they crossed on the ice from the mainland long before the islands were discovered. The fur of this animal has become valuable, and if properly protected the proceeds from the sale, at a fair valuation of the skins, would do much toward the support of the people. I am clearly of the opinion that the catch of foxes and sale of the skins should be controlled by the Department and the proceeds be made a community fund and divided among the natives in the same manner as the proceeds from killing seals. I would respectfully call attention to section 1956, Revised Statutes, relating to the killing of fur-beariug animals within the limits of Alaska Territory. The census of June 30,1891, was as follows: 203 native inhabitants on St. Paul and 88 on St. George, a total of 291. There were 18 births and 26 deaths on St. Paul and 7 births and 11 deaths on St. George, a ALASKA INDUSTRIES. total decrease of 12 in the native population during the last year. I herewith inclose the reports of Assistant Agents Joseph Murray and A. W. Lavender (Exhibits R and S). The former has been on the islands for more than two years, and the latter for the last fourteen months. Respectfully submitted. Wm. H. Williams, Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. Chas. Foster, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. List of inclosures. Telegraphic instructions of May 27. Proclamation of the modus vivendi. Annual statement of seals killed on St. Paul. Annual statement of seals killed on St. George. Telegraphic instructions of May 21. Certificate of skins sbipped from St. Paul, 1891. Certificate of skins shipped from St. George, 1891. Catch of sealing fleet to September 30, 1891. Telegraphic instructions relative to fuel. Letter relating to maintenance of widows, orphans, etc. Distribution of proceeds from 3,532 food skins. Distribution of proceeds from 631 food skins. Distribution and statement of native account on St. Paul Island, 1891. Distribution and statement of native account on St. George Island, 1891. Circular letter of Greek Church. Letters relative to Bishop Valdimer removing church funds. Report of Assistant Agent Joseph Murray, 1891. Report of Assistant Agent A. W. Lavender, 1891. Exhibit A. [Telegram.] Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, May 27, 1891. The Bush will receive orders to sail to-day. You and the other agents will take passage on her. The Corwin will follow in a few days. By her will be forwarded to you full instructions. The memorandum copy of proposed instructions which you now have will be your guide until Corwin arrives. Maximum number is yet to be determined, and other modifications are probable. If 7,500 seal are taken before Corwin arrives, you will stop killing and await instructions. See that the other agents take passage with you. Charles Foster, Secretary. Maj. W. H. Williams, Special Agent, care of Revenue Cutter Bush, San Franoisco, Cal. Exhibit B. proclamation by the president of the united states. Whereas an agreement for a modus vivendi between the Government of the United States and the Government of Her Britannic Majesty in relation to the fur-seal fish- ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 283 eries in Bering Sea was concluded on the fifteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and ninety-one, word for word as follows: Agreement between the Government of the United States and the Government of Her Britannic Majesty for modus vivendi in relation to the Fur Seal Fisheries in Bering Sea. For the purpose of avoiding irritating differences and with a view to promote the friendly settlement of the questions pending between the two governments touching their respective rights in Bering Sea, and for the preservation of the Seal species, the following agreement is made without prejudice to the rights or claims of either party. 1. Her Majesty's Government will prohibit until May next, Seal killing in that part of Bering Sea lying eastward of the line of demarcation described in Article No. 1 of the treaty of 1867 between the United States and Russia, and will promptly use its best efforts to ensure the observance of this prohibition by British subjects and vessels. 2. The United States Government will prohibit Seal killing for the same period in the same part of Bering Sea and on the shores aud islands thereof, the property of the United States, in excess of seventy-five hundred, to be taken on the islands for the subsistence and care of the natives, and will promptly use its best e'fforts to ensure the observance of this prohibition by the United States citizens and vessels. 3. Every vessel or person offending against this prohibition in the said waters of Bering Sea outside of the ordinary territorial limits of the United States, may be seized and detained by the Naval or other duly commissioned officers of either of the high contracting parties, but they shall be handed over as soon as practicable to the authorities of the nation to which they respectively belong, who shall alone have jurisdiction to try the offense and impose the penalties for the same. The witnesses and proofs necessary to establish the offense shall also be sent with them. 4. In order to facilitate such proper inquiries as Her Majesty's Government may desire to make, with a view to the presentation of the case of the Government before Arbitrators, and in expectation that an agreement for arbitration may be arrived at, it is agreed that suitable persons designated by Great Britain will be permitted at any time, upon application, to visit or to remain upon the Seal Islands during the present Sealing Season for that purpose. Signed and sealed in duplicate at Washington, this fifteenth day of June, 1891, on behalf of their respective governments, by William F. Wharton, acting Secretary of State of the United States, and Sir Julian Pauncefote, G. C. M. G. K. C. B., H. B. M. Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentary. William F. Wharton, [seal.] Julian Pauncefote, [seal.] Now, therefore, be it known, that I, Benjamin Harrison, President of the United States of America, have caused the said agreement to be made public to the end that the same and every part thereof may be observed and fulfilled with good faith by the United States of America and the citizens thereof. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed. Done at the City of Washington, this fifteenth day of June, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and ninety-one, and of the Independence of the United States, the one hundred and fifteenth. By the President: Benjamin Harrison. William F. Wharton, Acting Secretary of State. Jl 284 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit C. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Inland, Alaska, during the year ended August 10, 1891. Date. 1890. July 28 Aug. 5 14 23 30 6 13 22 29 4 14 22 29 14 4 Sept. Oct. Nov Dec , 1891. May 15 Jim Aue 29 4 11 11 12 13 13 15 16 17 18 20 25 29 8 13 15 21 27 3 5 10 Seals killed for native food. Name of rookery. Seals killed by lessees. Lukannon.. Reef Lukannon.. Reef do Lukannon.. do do "Middle Hill Lukannon.. Middle Hill do , do do Reef Skins accepted. ! Skins rejected. 119 123 124 130 64 24 4 do .....do Zapadnie Zapadnie and Reef Northeast Point... Zapadnie Northeast Point MiddleHill Northeast Point Reef Southwest Bay Reef Middle HiU Reef do do do Lukannon MiddleHill do Reef Northeast Point Lukannon 23 217 283 233 104 463 866 842 173 1, 023 116 215 400 100 121 122 178 248 118 405 100 Total. 6,938 10 Skins accepted. Skins rt iected. 46 59 89 110 109 109 114 95 111 947 *"io' 718 1,112 425 430 232 13 4 3 2 2,917 Total number of seals killed. 129 123 124 155 110 83 93 110 109 109 114 95 134 255 283 233 114 463 718 1,112 428 430 232 866 842 186 1,027 119 215 400 100 121 122 178 248 118 407 100 10,805 Remarks. For food. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Quota. Do. 1) .. Do. Do. .usv' Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Do. Moc rve ndi. Note 1.—Of the 950 rejected skins 45 were given to the natives; and 905, stagey, were accepted by the lessees, to be settled for in future at the Treasury Department. Note 2.—In addition to the above total there were killed on St. Paul Island during the month of November, 1890,2,364 young pups for " native food and clothing." Joseph Murray, First Assistant Special Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit D. 285 Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended August 6, 1891. Date. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Total number Skins accepted by lessees. Skins rejected. Skins Skins accepted, rejected. • of seals killed. 1890. Aug. 1 13 14 North » 97 52 42 55 1 97 do 52 do ' 42 21 do 55 30 . do 63 18 38 32 42 59 28 147 63 Sept. 9 24 ..do 18 do . 38 Oct. 16 . do 32 22 ..do 42 30 do 59 Dec. 4 Zapadnie skins taken by native watchmen 51 §8 23 85 442 274 1 79 Sept. 15 1891. May 12 22 Zapadnie cow skins killed by pirates North 147 i 17 North 23 29 85 North, East, and Starrv A teel 442 10 Zapadnie 274 15 101 235 48 25 153 105 30 119 101 235 19 East 48 29 North. 25 30 East 153 July 1 North 105 3 30 6 East 119 16 North 54 54 72 181 41 54 20 East 54 24 North 72 25 North and Zapadnie 181 Aug. 1-6 41 Total | i 1,540 427 816 1 2,803 Left over from last season 20 November 5 and 7 there were 1,104 seal pups killed for natives and clothing. Note: Rejected skins given to the natives 101 Skins of cow seals killed by pirates and rejected 147 Rejected stagey skins '. 149 427 Albert W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent. Exhibit E. [Telegram.] Washington, D. C, May 21. On Seal Island there are 2,371 salted seal skins, 1,255 of which are claimed to be merchantable; balance, rejected skins. Deliver all to North American Commercial Company subject to future settlement. Charles Foster, Secretary. William H. Williams, Special Agent, care Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. 286 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit F. Island of St. Paul, Bering Sea, A laska, August 11, 1891. This is to certify that 10,780 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Company's steamer Farrallone, Captain Bonnifield commanding, and consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco. Wm. H. Williams, Treasury Agent. S. Bonnifield, Master. Exhibit G. Island of St. George, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 12, 1891. This is to certify that 2,702 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Farrallone, Captain Bonnifield commanding, and consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. Albert W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent. S. Bonnifield, Master. Exhibit H. Catch of the Victoria sealing fleet, 1891, as reported September 30, 1891. Na Sapphire E.B.Marvin Triumph Carlotta G. Cox. Vi 'iva Pathfinder (Pioneer) Mary Taylor City of San Diego... Favorite Kate Mary Ellen Minnie Oscar and II at tie. Penelope Venture W. P. Say ward. Maggie Mao A. C. Moore Carmelita Ocean Belle Beatrice Rosie Olsen Walter Rich C. H. Tupper Aurora Teresa Belle May Thistle Sea Lion "Wanderer Winifred TJmbrina Genevia MaudS Annie M. Paint Katherine Borealia Anoiko W. A.Earle Labrador Beatrice, Vancouver, British Columbia. Oroko Tota Spring Pall Total. catch. catch. 1,008 2,435 3,443 758 758 838 182 1,020 517 1,515 2,032 1,261 713 1,974 874 1,484 2,358 497 265 762 512 653 1, 165 374 2,030 2,404 60 1,100 1,160 609 22 631 520 65 586 409 1,061 1,470 410 410 90 660 750 739 801 1,540 785 3 788 442 1,581 2,023 751 1,639 2,390 759 1,170 1,929 300 208 508 200 227 427 519 519 235 348 619 340 45 885 307 307 701 501 1,202 294 80 374 934 81 1,015 200 339 539 104 104 405 607 912 224 267 491 394 394 151 154 305 191 1,224 1,41.") 473 473 406 406 1,046 1,040 2,086 374 220 594 136 208 344 406 25 431 20,449 23,053 43.502 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 287 Catch of American sealing fleet, 1891, as reported September 30, 1891. Namt Emma and Louise, San Francisco. Ethel, San Diego E. E. Webster, San Francisco Henry Dennis, Seattle J. H. Lewis, San Francisco Alliel. Alger, Seattle C. G. White, San Francisco Kate and Amy, Vaquina Bay San Diego, San Francisco Helen Blum, San Francisco Lillie L., San Francisco Undaunted, Kodiak G. H. White, Port Townsend James G. Swan Rosie Sparks Lottie, Neah Bay Total Spring catch. 125 600 750 470 450 395 2,992 Fall catch. 1,080 56 428 ,686 630 465 46 540 202 460 5,593 Total. 1,080 181 600 1,178 470 450 1,686 630 465 46 540 395 202 54 148 460 8,585 Exhibit I. [Telegram.] Washington, D. C, May 21. Report from Lavender just received, per steamer Bear, states that natives on St. George Island were insufficiently supplied during last winter with food and fuel, and consequently suffered hardships. Notify North American Commercial Company that at least 70 tons of coal will be required for that island during coming winter. O. L. Spaulding, Assistant Secretary. Wm. H. Williams, Special Agent, care Collector of Customs, San Francisco, Cal. • Exhibit J. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, August 8, 1891. Sir: I inclose herewith list of widows, orphans, aged and infirm people on the islands of St. Paul and St. George who should be provided with the necessaries of life, such as food, fuel, and clothing, in accordance with the stipulations of the lease. And I would request that you will give instructions to those you leave in charge of the company's business on the islands, that there may be no misunderstanding relative to the matter. The question of food and clothing for the natives for the coming season is a serious one, and. is a subject of considerable solicitude to the Government. The limited catch for the last two years has not given the natives an opportunity to earn sufficient money to purchase the necessary supplies for their maintenance, and the small amount passed to their credit (except in a few cases) must necessarily soon be exhausted. It will, therefore, be necessary to supply them with a reasonable amount of food, fuel, and clothing. I find on investigation that for some reason they are unwilling to eat salt salmon, or at least only in small quantities, and I would therefore suggest that from the 15th of December to the 15th of May there be substituted or they be permitted to purchase, if they so desire, a reasonable amount of salt beef and salt pork. I make these requests, believing that you"are desirous, as well as myself, that these people shall be fairly well provided for during the coming winter. Very respectfully, Wm. H. Williams, Special Treasury Agent. George R. Tingle, Esq., General Agent North American Commercial Company. 288 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit K. Distribution of proceeds of 3,532 food-seal skins to the natives of St. Paul Island, Alaska, by W. H. Williams, Treasury agent, as per order of the Secretary of the Treasury, department letter May 7, 1891, being from seals killed by the natives for food during the fall of 1889 and winter of 1890. First class: Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff $33.40 Antone Melovedoff 33.40 Kar|> Buterin 33.40 Jacob Koochutin. George Koochutiu Theo. Sediek Agie Kushin Martin Nederozoif 33.40 33.40 33.40 33.40 33.40 Stepon Nederozoif 33.40 Neon Mandregan - 33.40 Peter Kaukoff 33.40 Nikoloi Kaukoff 33. 40 Kerrick Tarrokanoff 33.40 Daniel Parouchin 33.40 Appollon Burdnkofsky 33.40 Zoehor Rukorishnikoff 33. 40 Euphiru Kusherinkoff 33.40 Stepon Kozeroff 33.40 Parfiri Paukoff 33.40 Nikoloi Gromoff 33.40 Llari Stepeken 33.40 Peter Tetoff 33.40 Peter Oustegoff 33.40 Peter Peshnikoff 33.40 Total 801.60 Second class: Simeon Melovedoff . George Emanoff Markel Valkoff Kerrick Artamanoff Kerrick Buterin Vasseli Sedulee Second class—Continued. Eupkiru K«>ockaten.. John Frates $30.06 30.06 Total 240.48 Third class: Netrophon Shutyogan 26.72 Arsenv Arkoshoff. John Glotoff ... Neon Titoff Necon Shobolin Alex Hansen ... 26.72 26.72 26.72 26.72 26.72 Total 160.32 Fourth class: Dorofoy Stepelem 23.38 John Koochuten 23.38 Nikoloi Bogadanoff • 23.38 Vladimir Prokopief 23.38 Paul Hoberoff 23.38 30.06 30.06 30.06 30.06 30.06 30.06 Total Fifth class: Maxim Krukoff... Alex Galoktanoff. Alex Melovedoff.. Sixth class: Alex Merkustiff.. John Kuzintzoff.. 116.90 20.04 20. 04 20. 04 16. 69 16. 69 Grand total 1,412.86 3,532 food salted seal skins, at 40 cents, $1,412.80. St. Paul Island, Alaska, June 80,1891. We hereby certify that the several amounts herein named as the share due each individual participating in the community funds were entered to the credit of the proper parties on the books of the North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Wm. H. Williams, United States Treasury Agent, in charge of Seal Islands, A laska. KUPERT TYMOPORDE, First Chief of Natives. Nicoli Krukoff, Second Chief of Natives. wm ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 289 Exhibit L. Distribution of proceeds of 631 skins, food-seal skins, to the natives of St. George Island, Alaska, by Wm. H. Williams, Treasury agent, as per order of the Secretary of the Treasury, Department letter May 7, 1891, killed fall and winter of 1889-90, and shipped from the islands on U. S. S. Bush in August, 1890. Rev. Inokenty Lestrukof $14.02 Demetra Lestrukof 14.02 Arkenty Nederozof 14.02 Alexander Oustigof 14.02 Eoff Philomonof 14. 02 Corneal Gorokof 14.02 Eustin Swetzof 14.02 Simeon Philomonof 14.02 $112.16 Second class: Nikolai Malovonski 11.91 Andronic Philamonof • 11. 91 Andrean Philomonof 11.91 Stepon Lekanof 11.91 47.64 Third class: Evan Kulikolof 10.52 Peter Rezanzof 10.52 Simeon Oustegof 10.52 Joseph Merkuliff 10. 52 Peter Prokoprof 10.52 Mike Lestenkof 10.52 63.12 Fourth class: Gregoria Philomanof 4.21 Euphem Philomanof 4.21 George Merkulif 4.21 PafiriGalonin 4.21 Inokenty Rezanzof 4.21 21.05 Fifth class: JohnMirkulef 2.81 Nikoloi Mederozof 2.81 Inokenty Philamonof 2. 81 8.43 Total 252.40 St. George Island, Alaska, June 30,1891. We hereby certify that the several'amounts herein named as the share due each individual participating in the community funds were entered to the credit of the proper parties on the books of the North American Commercial Company, St. George Island, Alaska. Wm. H. Williams, United States Treasury Agent, in charge of Seal Islands, Alaska. Demetri Lestenkoff, First Chief of Natives. Eustin (his x mark) Swetzoff, /Second Chief of Natives. Witness to the mark of Eustin Swetzoff, attest: Milton Barnes. A. W. Lavender. II. Doc. 92 19 u~mwmmm 290 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit M. The North American Commercial Company in account with the natives of St. Paul Island. Folio. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 Gl 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 Name. First class: Austigoff, Peter. ..<••..» t »»• •.......... Buterin, Karp Burdukofsky, Apollon Gromoff, Nicoli Kotchooten, Jacob Krukoff, Nicoli Kushin, Aggie Mandregin, Neon Melevidoff. Antone Nedarazoff, Martin Nedarazoff, Stepan Parauchin, Daniel Paukoff, Parfiri Stepetin, Elary Terrakanaff, Kerrick Tetoff, Peter Sediek, Theodore Artomanoff, Kerrick Kolchootch, Euphema Sedule, Vassili Valkoff, Markel Shaishnikoff, Rev. Paul Second class: Arkashoff, Arseney Kozeraff, Stepan Melevidoff, Alexander Bogodanaff, Nicoli Emanoff, George Glotoff, John Haberoff, Paul Hansen, Alexander Kotchooten, John Merculiff, Alexander Prokopieff, Vladimir Shutyagin, Metrofan Shabolin, Necon Stepetin, Dorafay Tetoff, Neon Galaktioneff, Alexander Koznitzaff, John Special class: Kotchooten, Peter Kozekoff, Simeon Sediek, Philip Zetoff, Zachar Fratis, John Widows, orphans, and others: Melevidoff, Mrs. A. (see bank account). Volkoff, Ellen Kotchooten, Mary Kozeroff, Mrs. Paul (nonresident) Krukoff, Anna Krukoff, Maxim Koznitzoff, Agafia Kosheivnikoff, Avdotia Pushnikoff, Vassilisia Popoff, Afanasia Rookovishn ikoff, Annissia Rezanzoff, Anna Terrentova, Anna Stepetin, Avdotia Shaishnikoff, Valerian Shaishnikoff, Matrona Shaishnikoff. George Pohomoff, Salome Shutyayin, Catherine Sediok, Avdotia Sediek, Elizabeth Shaishnikoff, Nedesda Popoff, John Sediok, Zachar Emanoff, Catherine Shabolin, Ouleta Zatzmanoff, Auxenia. Yat/.iiKtnuil, Latvia Cr. Dr. $3.40 Division. 2.35 6.40 $21.55 56.35 73. 65 20.94 20.24 5.15 35.90 .40 .40 22.85 65.94 23.15 20.60 59.40 , 199. 39 15.41 47.48 725. 85 , 452. 63 13.52 32.40 206. 34 20.70 38.78 32.47 25.88 34.90 17.63 1.31 18. tic 2.03 4.97 136.83 1. 22 2.44 293.59 2.50 3.40 1,574.31 80.35 319. 03 30.15 212. 75 42.40 22.59 293.60 44.05 20.40 3.00 34.40 82.00 118. 75 130. 00 165. 09 116.95 134.59 141. 80 206. II 96.17 97.35 $140.00 1.40. 00 140.00 140. 00 140. 00 140. 00 140.00 140.00 140. 00 140. 00 140. 00 140.00 140.00 140. 00 140.00 140. 00 140. 00 140.00 140. 00 140. 00 140. 00 140. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122.00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122. 00 122.00 122. 00 122. 00 122.00 40.00 40.00 40.00 40.00 77.00 69 20 44 03 03 74 74 Total. $136.60 161.55 196.35 213.65 160.94 160. 24 145.15 137. 65 133. 60 175. 90 140. 40 140. 40 162. 85 205.94 163.15 160. 60 199.40 2, 339.39 155.41 187.48 865.85 2,592. 63 52 .40 .34 70 78 47 88 90 63 135. 154. 328. 142. 160.' 154. 147 158. 189. 120.69 140. 63 119 97 126.97 258.83 123.22 124.44 415.59 42.50 40.00 43.40 40.00 1,651.31 80.35 319.03 30.15 212.75 42.40 22.59 293. 60 44.05 20.40 3.00 34.40 82.00 118 130 165 116 134 141 206 96 97 171 29 92 1,247. 758.03 8.74 8.74 70 00 09 95 59 80 11 17 35 69 20 44 03 mm Folio. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 First class: Lestinkoff, Rev. Innokenty Lestinkoff, Demitri Nedarazoff, Arkenty Philamanoff, Eoff. Philamanoff, Simeon Garokoff, Corneal Swetzoff, Eustin Second class: Oustigoff, Alexia Malavansky, Nicoli Philamanoff, Andrean Philamanoff, Andronic Lakanoff, Stepan Kulikuliff, John Rezanzoff, Peter Oustigoff, Simeon Merculiff, Joseph Prokopieff, Peter Lestinkoff, Mike Third class: Philormanoff, Gregore Merculiff, George Galanin, Parfm Rezanzoff, Innokenty.. Special class: Nedarazoff, Nicoli Merculiff, John Philamanoff, Innokenty Prokopieff, Afanasia... Widows, orphans, etc.: Rezanzoff, Serefeme Merculiff, Nedesda Merculiff, Mark Merculiff, Stepan Vicoloff, Avdotia Total Exhibit O. A CIRCULAR LETTER TO THE GREEK ORTHODOX PARISHIONERS OF Brethren : The committee of the Russian Benevolent Society of San Francisco hereby informs you that the funds of your churches, invested in shares and obligations of Russian railways, and intrusted to the care of the head of the bishopric, have been sold by Bishop Valdimir, and the money lavishly dissipated for purposes that have"nothing in common with the interests of the church and orthodox religion. The bishop understands that he had no right to dispose in that way of your property, and therefore being asked now to account for those funds by the most holy synod, and being unable to do so, proceeds to Alaska, with the hope of obtaining from you or your ministers some document testifying that those funds have been donated by you to the church of San Francisco. A document of that kind issued by yourselves or your ministers, while exculpating the bishop, would be equivalent to your renunciation of any claim to that property, which otherwise will certainly be restored to you by the most holy synod. We advise you, therefore, not to give in to any orders, summonses, or entreaties of the bishop in that respect; but draw up immediately a petition to the most holy synod, which you may forward through the consulate-general in San Francisco, requiring the restitution of your money, with legal interest. We beg to inform you also that Bishop Valdimir has no longer jurisdiction in the bishopric of Alaska, having been recalled by the ukase of the most holy synod, and therefore has no more right to issue orders of any kind in the bishoprie than any private citizen. Hoping you will be sufficiently enlightened by this circular to be able to act intelligently in the future, we remain, united in faith and Christian love, Respectfully, yours, Committee. San Francisco, May 20,1891. ■■ 292 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit P. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, August 6, 1891. Sir : I am informed that there is quite a sum of money left with you by one Bishop Valdimir, who claims authority for his action, to transport to San Francisco. It is alleged that he succeeded in getting this money out of the natives by false representations. I would request that you defer taking the money off the islands until the matter can be reported to the Secretary of the Treasury for instructions. Very respectfully, Wm. H. Williams, Special Treasury Agent. Geo. R. Tingle, Esq., General Agent North American Commercial Company. Exhibit R. report of assistant agent murray. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, November 1, 1891. Sir : I have the honor to submit my annual report of the condition of affairs on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the period of my administration there, and to suggest a few changes in the treatment of the native inhabitants of the. seal islands—changes which I believe to be essential to their moral and physical advancement. Your predecessor, Mr. Charles J. Goff, sailed for San Francisco on the 10th of August, 1890, leaving me in charge of St. Paul Island, with instructions to see to it that the natives were not allowed to suffer for the necessaries of life, and to certify to the North American Commercial Company for all goods, food, and clothing furnished by them, gratuitously, to the natives. No such goods were needed, however, for those who had money were quite economical, and the company supplied rations to all whom they believed to be entitled to them according to the terms of the lease. The only difference between the Government and the company agents was caused by the widows' fund, which Mr. Goff ordered to be expended ouly for clothing for the most needy, while the superintendent of the company had ordered the local agent not to issue rations to any but helpless widows until the widows' fund should be exhausted. There is a class of unfortunates here who are mothers, but neither wives nor widows, and two of them, with children, were in a destitute condition, and I ordered them rations, to be paid for from the widows' fund. In the meantime I arranged with two respectable families to take two of the children, and later with a third family to take one of the young women, where she earns her board and clothing and is kept out of evil companionship. The second woman has been working out among the neighbors, but is without a permanent home, and, under the circumstances, ought to be supported by the company. The widows' fund is now exhausted, and it will be wise policy never to call it again into existence, for it was a wrong from its first inception. It will be well, too, to definitely settle what the weekly ration of food and the yearly allowance of clothing shall be for all who are unable to provide for themselves. On the 28th of September, 1890, the island was visited by an epidemic influenza which resulted in severe sickness to the greater part of the people, nine of whom died from the 18th of October to the 31st of December, inclusive. I herewith inclose the report of the resident physician, Dr. Lutz, in which, from a professional standpoint, he fully describes the malady and its ravages. His report was written at a time when I was anxions to have it reach the Secretary of the Treasury, but, owing to the lack of mail facilities, there was no opportunity to send it off the island. That the natives are dying off very rapidly, that the deaths exceed the births every year, is only too true; and yet, in all the references made to the prevalence of disease and sickness here by those who have written or spoken on the subject, I have yet to see or hear of one in which one of the principal causes of the trouble is named. That the germs of consumption, scrofula, and kindred diseases have a firm hold on many of the natives is not to be denied; but it is equally true that with some slight and almost inexpensive changes in the manner of their living there need not be more than one-half their present fearful death rate. To follow up the question in all its details would require more space than can be ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 293 given it in an annual report, but it will be sufficient at present for me to say that the entire sanitary arrangement here needs an overhauling. 1 do not say this by way of complaint against the former or present lessees, but simply as a statement of fact. Had the Treasury agents pursued a policy somewhat different to that followed for so many years, and had the people been treated as human beings should be treated, and not as beasts of burden or slaves; had they insisted on a policy of kindness to all and protection to the native's wife and daughter, then the natives of the seal islands would have been far advanced in civilization, and might have been a comparatively healthy and happy as well as a useful people. Unfortunately the greater part of twenty years has been allowed to pass away without an effort being made to do much more for the natives than to take them out of the old sod houses of Russian times and put them in comfortable frame cottages. It is a disgrace to those who remained silent on the subject that there is not, even yet, a water supply for the natives nearer than half a mile; that there is no drainage; that there is not a water-closet, except one for the school children, and that the filth and garbage of the entire village is left to decay in holes dug in front of or near the dwelling. During the past winter, when the snow was several feet deep on the level and from 5 to 10 feet deep in drifts, it was hard work for the strongest men to reach the well from which the natives draw their supply of water, and it was often utterly impossible for women to reach it, and consequently they depended for months on melted snow for water for domestic purposes. All this suffering could be easily avoided by the wise expenditure of a few thousand dollars to pay for the machinery necessary to pump and force the water into the village; and. I respectfully refer the matter to the serious consideration of the Department. That a system of drainage properly constructed would add to the comforts of the people and prevent a great deal of sickness is a self-evident proposition to everyone who has looked below the surface to investigate the subject, and it can not be established too soon if we would save the remnant of the natives from extinction. For the sake of common decency and good morals, as well as for health, it is necessary that a suitable water-closet be erected for every family. The fuel question is one that continues to come to the front every succeeding sea son, and it should be settled once and forever. The lease calls for 80 tons of coal for the natives of St. Paul and St. George—30 tons to St. George and 50 tons to St. Paul; and the lessees have supplied every pound of it. But 80 tons is not enough, and more coal is an absolute necessity. During October, 1890, when nearly every family on St. Paul Island had its quota of sick, I issued coal, and contiuued to issue it through the winter at about the rate of 10 pounds a day to the family until March, when I had to cease the further issue of coal to heads of families and give it to the widows, sick, and aged persons only. When they were killing the full quota of 85,000 seals on St. Paul, and the men were earning from $300 to $600 per annum, it was the custom to burn the fat or blubber of the seals and to buy coal from the lessees whenever it was needed. But now there is no blubber, and the earnings are very small—far too small to be spent for coal at 1£ cents per pound, or $33.60 per ton. I am well aware that you will be informed of the existence of plenty of driftwood strewn in large quantities along the beach, and of the laziness of the men who neglect to gather it for firing; but when one knows that the driftwood is not so very plentiful, and that it has been water-soaked for months, and that it is next to an impossibility to dry it in this damp climate, it is easily understood what a nuisance it must be to cook by or live near a fire made from such wood, which must be smeared over with blubber before it will burn. If for no other reason than that of forever doing away with the use of blubber, the present quantity of coal ought to be increased. This blubber is stripped from the seals during the killing season of June and July, and is stored in tubs, barrels, boxes, etc., until wanted for use in cold weather, by which time it has become rancid or rotten to such a degree that it is unfit to be allowed under the roof of civilized man, much less to be used to cook his food and warm his cottage Again, in order to obtain the firewood spoken of, it is oftentimes necessary to go across the island, a distance of 8 miles, through deep snow, for as much wood as a man can carry home on his back. That men sometimes sit down in despair and let their families suffer with cold, or that they squander their money for coal at the enormous price of $33.60 per ton, rather than undergo such hardships for a back load of wet wood is not at all to be wondered at. They must have more coal. Two hundred tons is not too much for the natives of St. Paul Island if they are to have a fire every day, and since coming into Bering Sea I have not seen a day when a good fire was not a necessity to every family. Indeed, I find they have bought and paid for out of their scanty earnings 153,650 1 294 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. pounds of coal from June 1, 1890, to May 31, 1891, for which they paid 1£ cents per pound, or $33.60 per ton. Now all this was in addition to the 50 tons furnished by the lessees, under the lease, and makes in round numbers, for one year, 110 tons of coal in addition to the wood and blubber. Good health depends very largely upon comfort and cleanliness, and no people can be comfortable who have to be constantly struggling to keep a miserable fire burning, made up from wet wood and rancid fat, nor can they be healthy long and be without plenty of pure water; nor can their children grow up to be robust men and women where drainage is unknown, and where the very air they breathe is poisoned by the accumulated tilth of twenty years. "But," we are told, "the natives will not try to do anything for themselves, nor attempt to improve their surroundings." Admitting the truth of all this, if we apply it to a small minority, I deny that it would be just or right to leave them to their fate because of their want of knowledge of the true status of the case, and I insist it is our duty to teach while we assist and encourage them. Every agent who has tried the experiment will say that the natives are docile and obedient, and can be induced to do almost anything when approached in a kind and rational manner. For years the natives have been denied the right to buy or use sugar as an article of diet, because, forsooth, some man, long since dead, got drunk from quas made from sugar. That there have been cases of quas-making, and that, even now, a native will take a drink when he has a chance, is undoubtedly true, but there is neither sense nor reason in punishing the whole community, young and old, men and women alike, for the sin of one or two men who know no better, and who can, very easily, be persuaded from repeating the act. There has been altogether too much said about the weakness of the natives for strong drink, so much so that it is commonly believed in the United States that they are in a constant state of intoxication, when the facts are the very opposite. I was on St. George Island fourteen months, and a little longer on St. Paul, and I have yet to find the second drunken man on the islands. Once, on board a steamer, one of the men got too much whisky, enough to keep him off work for two hours, and that is the only case of drunkenness I ever saw on the islands. Besides, were they the inveterate quas-makers they have been represented to be, the want of sugar would be no bar to their business, for they can make quas out of nearly everything they use as food or drink, sweet crackers, jelly, yeast, etc., entering largely into the composition. And, lest there be objections raised, sugar can be prepared very readily so that it will not ferment, and yet be all right for ordinary use as food. Two per cent of powdered borax mixed with sugar will not injure it more than to prevent fermentation. The same is true of sulphate of calcium. I respectfully submit that it is worth trying. Whenever a person is taken sick on the islands he is allowed sugar, but what is the use of giving him, at the eleventh hour, the very thing for the want of which his sickness originated? Especial attention is called to the subject of schools on the seal islands, for if we are to succeed in teaching the English language to the rising generation there must be a radical reform, amounting indeed to a complete change, in the present system and methed of teaching. That the lessees comply with the requirements of the lease in regard to schools and teachers is true enough, but the defect is in the system itself, which, owing to many causes, is not the one adapted to the conditions existing here. One of the most serious obstacles in the way of the American school has been, and is now, the demand made by the church that all her children must learn Russian so as to understand the church services. Consequently a great deal of time is wasted in teaching, or attempting to teach, the children two languages; and the result is what might be expected; they repeat their lessons from day to day in a slipshod, meaningless, mechanical sort of way without ever comprehending a word of English, either spoken or written. It is not that the average native child is unusually dull or stupid, for he is not, but it is because the child never hears English spoken except what he hears in the school. What is really needed here is a regular industrial school in which the pupils may live, and where they will be under tbe care of a husband and wife who are trained, and fitted for the work, and who will care for them as though they were their own children. We must have such a school if we are to succeed, for the natives are not only ignorant of books and book learning, but of all the household and domestic economies which go to make up the truly civilized community and Christian home. I do not advocate missionary work in the sectarian sense, but I do want to see an ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 295 industrial school here where the children may have a truly Christian woman to guide and direct them as they grow up to maturity, one who will direct them as their unfortunate parents have never been directed. I advocate the employment of teachers of long and varied experience, men and women of character, whose blameless lives shall be a guaranty of the success of the school, and who are, withal, devoted to the work for the sake of the good to be accomplished, and who are not above stooping down to lift up the poor and lowly ones in whose welfare so very few take an interest. There are at present on St. Paul Island 25 boys and 37 girls, who are over 5 and under 18 years of age, who ought to be under the immediate care and control of such teachers as I have suggested. With such care and safeguards thrown around them they would grow up to be useful men and women, morally pure, physically healthy, and mentally improved—a credit to us all. During the month of September, 1890, I sent 6 orphan girls to the school at Unalaska, and in June, 1891, I visited them there and found them so much changed for the better in every respect that I am sorry there is no room in the school to accommodate a few more of the orphans on St. Paul, who have no one to care for them as children should be cared for. As we have so many children on the islands, and as their parents object to let them go to Unalaska to school, even if there were accommodations there for them, I respectfully submit that an industrial school be established here as soon as possible, and that its entire management shall bo under the exclusive control of the Government. I am well aware of the fact that my suggestions for so many changes in behalf of the natives may look like extravagance and be ridiculed by all who would continue the present system, but I know the people are deserving of all I am asking, and I have faith in their pledges that the confidence reposed in them will not be abused. It is true they are poor and lowly and illiterate, and ignorant of many things known to the more fortunate of mankind; but their fidelity to Government interests, their love of order, and their obedience to law compels all who fairly study the situation to honor and respect them. Ignoring, for the time being, the moral obligations we are under to do all in our power to save them from extinction, and coming down to the question of expense, we find that the actual cost of making the changes suggested would proportion to the good accomplished in saving and civilizing a be so small m people so worthy, good work for that it Avould be a shame to allow such a consideration to retard the a moment. I left St. Paul Island on August 28, and at that time the natives were in fairly good health, and, as there has been 100 tons of coal landed for their use, and as the lessees have brought a plentiful supply of food and clothing of a quality much better than usual, I expect they will be comfortable and well supplied during the winter so far as their physical wants are concerned. In accordance with your instructions, I have written up the census of June 30, 1891, and I herewith transmit a copy of the same, which shows a decrease in population of 16 persons since January 1, 1890, a period of eighteen months. It also shows that we have 47 more females than males, and that 26 of that surplus are widows. I respectfully suggest that an effort be made to induce young men to come here from any or all of the islands of the Aleutian chain. The plan should be to bring none but young, healthy men, who would come to marry and make permanent homes, and to take but a few from each island. By recruiting from all of the islands a few young men might be obtained from each without injury to any; but the idea of removing the entire population of one island is a very unwise one, because the people as a whole do not desire it, nor would it be just to the lessees to encumber them with so many who are old and helpless. The subject requires the serious consideration of the Department and deserves the attention of all who are interested in the welfare of the seal islands and of their inhabitants. A controversy, extending over the civilized world, is now being carried on as to the causes which.have led to the destruction of the fur seal in so short a space of time, and many plausible theories have been advanced by men of scientific attainment and sound knowledge who are earnestly endeavoring to solve the problem, and al'so by men who have no interest in the matter beyond that of distorting facts for the sake of present gain and profit to themselves and friends at the expense of valuable vested rights and in defiance of law and reason. Every imaginable cause is named as the one, except that of pelagic hunting, while it is a well-established fact which admits of no contradiction that the seals are being exterminated by incessant hunting in the Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea by a fleet of vessels fitted out for that avowed purpose. The official records show that after the Alaska Commercial Company had taken 100,000 seals every year from 1870 to 1883, a period of thirteen years, the seals had 296 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. increased steadily, until in 1883-84 it was easy to take the quota of 100,000 between June 1 and July 20, or at the rate of 2,000 a day. It was about this period the sealing schooners began to appear in Bering Sea with the regularity of the seals themselves, and as the schooners increased in number and systematized their methods of taking seal, the seals decreased so rapidly that in 1889 it was found necessary by the lessees to take 40,000 small seals in order to fill up the quota of 100,000. Only 21,000 merchantable seals were taken by the lessees in 1890, although a great effort was made to secure a larger catch. It is a well-known fact that from the time our Government took possession of the seal islands in 1868 until 1883 there was not a sign of any diminution in the number of seals coming upon the rookeries. During my residence here I have endeavored to get as much information as I possibly could from every source within reach, and I never met a person who lived here any length of time who ever thought of attributing the destruction of seal life to any other cause than that of the sealing schooners. Nor can an unpredjudiced person show any other cause after once witnessing the destruction of seal life on the rookeries after a few days' operations of a schooner in the immediate vicinity. The cows are shot and killed while passing between the rookeries and the feeding banks, and the pups, deprived of proper sustenance, die upon the breeding grounds by thousands. It needs not a scientific training to understand this thing, nor is there a native on the islands so dull as not to understand it thoroughly in all its relations to the question at issue. An effort has been made to show a decrease of seals because of a shortage of bulls, and I was led into the belief of that theory until I investigated it for myself, and found it to be erroneous and altogether untenable. Pursuant to instructions from you I visited the rookeries at different times between July 7 and 22, and I carefully examined and noted their condition on the dates of my several visits. It has been conceded on all sides that the rookeries are at their fullest and best from the 10th to the 20th of July, and I found such to be the case in every instance. During the earlier visits made by hie I observed, and actually counted, all the idle bulls on each rookery, and as the season advanced and the harems were filled with cows, the idle bulls become fewer and fewer, and yet, on the 22d of July, after the cows were all in and had brought forth their young, I counted 1,250 vigorous bulls idle and without cows; and in hundreds of instances I saw harems or families where a bull had only 2 to 4 cows, although the majority of the harems consisted of from 30 to 40, a fact that proves there is a surplus of bulls and not a scarcity. I discovered very few cows without pups, and they were young cows coming on to the breeding rookeries for the first time. Were it true that bulls are scarce it would be very easy to prove it by the shortage in the crop of pups; but it is not true, for there is hardly a cow on St. Paul Island that has not a pup by her side. The real and only cause of the rapid decrease in seal life is the indiscriminate slaughter of the cows at sea. It is absurd to talk of injuring the herds by overdriving on land, because the cows are neither driven nor disturbed by any person on the islands during the period of their stay there. Nor is it true that the lessees have ever injured the seals by overdriving. I have personally witnessed the driving and killing of seals by the lessees during the seasons of 1889,1890, and 1891, and it was all done under the immediate direction and in the presence of the Treasury agents, and not one of them has ever claimed that a seal was injured. No seals can, or ever could be, driven on the islands contrary to the will of the Treasury agent, and I will venture the assertion that not one seal in ten thousand has been injured, by the lessees or their agents since we owned the seal islands. The natives attend to the driving, exercising the utmost care that the pace shall be so slow and steady that it is impossible to injure the seals. Overcrowding or overdriving would be more injurious to the lessees than to any one else, and for that reason alone they could not afford to permit it. Let it be borne in mind, too, that the local management of the islands has not heen turned over to new or inexperienced men since the lease has been awarded to the North American Commercial Company; the two men who have superintended the killing of seals for the past twenty-two years are still in charge, and I know they could not be expected to overdrive or allow it to be done. Whenever a seal is accidently injured on a drive, he is immediately killed and skinned and that is the last of the matter, for the death of a male seal is no injury to the herd so long as the breeding seals are not disturbed or slaughtered. There is such a mass of evidence and from so many sources to prove the destruction of the seals hy pelagic or deep-sea hunting, that no honest man thinks it necessary to look for any other cause. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 297 Accompanied by Agent Barnes, Mr. Fowler, of the North American Commercial Company, and by the British commissioners, I visited Tolstoi rookery on August 19, and we found thousands of dead pups, covering a space of about 5 acres, and their mothers Had disappeared. Dr. Dawson, one of the commissioners, took kodak views of the place, and when he asked me what I thought was the cause of their death, I answered: "Their mothers have been killed at sea." Since I left St. Paul Island I have received a letter from Agent Barnes, in which he says: "You remember the appearance of Tolstoi ? I visited Halfway Point, along with Mr. Fowler, and found the same state of affairs, or worse; and those who have been to Northeast Point say it is still worse there." Bearing in mind that the Northeast Point is the largest rookery in the world, it is no exaggeration to say that between 20,000 and 30,000 pups are lying dead at St. Paul Island whose mothers were slaughtered by sealing schooners in the open sea and the pups left to starve upon the rookeries. The theory of an occasional epidemic among the seals has been broached, and plausible arguments advanced to prove that the decrease in seal life can be accounted for without blaming the sealing schooners, but as the "oldest inhabitant" on the islands has no recollection of anything of the sort, and as no one ever saw a dozen dead cows on any rookery, it is safe to say there is no foundation for or truth in the epidemic theory. It is not for me to say what course should be pursued in the future, but it is self- evident to all who know the present condition of the seal rookeries that the indiscriminate slaughter of seals in the open sea must be stopped at once if they are to be preserved from total extinction and the unfortunate natives of the seal islands saved from starvation and pauperism. Respectfully submitted. Joseph Murray, First Assistant' Treasury Agent. Maj. W. H. Williams, Agent in Charge of the Seal Islands. Exhibit S. report of assistant agent lavender. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, November 1, 1891. Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report upon the condition of the seal rookeries on the island of St. George and of the native inhabitants thereof, together with the recommendations for the better government of the island. During the seasons of 1890 and 18911 was upon the island and noted carefully the condition of the breeding rookeries. I found a marked decrease in the number of seals upon all the rookeries, with perhaps one exception. As suggested by you, I carefully observed the seals upon the breeding grounds, in order to learn whether there is a scarcity of bulls, and am convinced that the decrease in seal life can not be attributed to that cause, as there appears to be a surplus of bulls upon all the rookeries. As a result of my observations I am convinced that the diminution of seal life is largely due to the indiscriminate slaughter of the female seals when away-from the rookeries, either going to or returning from the feeding grounds. While at Unalaska, on my return from the seal islands, I had a long conversation with the captain of a hunting schooner. He informed me that he had hunted seal in Bering Sea every season for the last five years. I examined a number of seal skins he had on board the schooner which were taken during the month of August, and found that of his total catch of 178 skins, more than 90 per cent were of female seals. He also informed me that there was abundant evidence that the females killed were almost invariably mothers. He stated that, notwithstanding the fact that he was engaged in the business, he did not approve the practice of shooting- seals in the waters of Bering Sea for the reason that nearly all the seal shot were either killed or wounded and not more than one iu six was secured; also that the proportion of female seals killed this season was not greater than it had been in former years, as he had known 100 seals to be killed in a single day, of which 98 were females. When the mother seal is killed before the month of October of any year, the young must starve, as it has no means of sustaining life other than the nourishment from the mother. 298 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. During the last season there were more than one hundred schooners engaged in seal hunting around the Aleutian Islands and in the waters of Bering Sea. Some of these vessels secured over 2,000 skins, and it would seem that unless prompt measures are taken for the suppression of pelagic sealing, this once numerous and valuable fur-bearing animal will soon be extinct. In accordance with the instructions received from your predecessor, I permitted the natives to kill in November last 1,104 young male seal pups for food and clothing. I found by actual test the gross weight of an average seal pup after the skin, blubber, and entrails had been removed was only 13 pounds. Deducting the weight of the bones, which was a little over 5 pounds, left between 7 and 8 pounds of meat of a very poor quality. As the natives of the islands do not use the skin for clothing, and the small amount of meat secured does not j ustify the killing of small pup seal, I would recommend that the practice be discontinued. A larger supply of fuel will more than compensate them for the loss of blubber, which, as you know, has been used in lieu of fuel. On June 30, 1891, the native inhabitants of the island numbered 88 persons of all ages, 40 of whom were males. They live in 20 houses and are divided into 22 families. There were 7 births and 11 deaths during the last year. The age of the oldest native-born person on the island is only 45 years. The death rate has been larger than that of the births for the past ten years. If something is not done to improve their condition, the island will in time become depopulated and this race obliterated. Most of the natives are afflicted with scrofula and hereditary consumption, caused, I think, by living in small damp houses without proper sanitary conditions and with insufficient vegetable diet. In October last a general epidemic of coryza (common cold) prevailed, and it was followed by a clearly defined epidemic of la grippe; in consequence the school was closed from .tne 13th to the 28th of October. Everyman, woman, and child was afflicted, and a large majority at the same time. The result of theepidemic was to increase the death rate. I herewith inclose you the report of Dr. William S. Hereford, the resident physician. While I have no desire to criticise the acts of the present or former lessees, nor to find fault with former Treasury agents who had charge of the island, I am of the opinion that had proper care been taken to compel these poor, ignorant people to properly observe the ordinary rules of health, there would now be found many persons.on the island who had lived beyond the age of 45 years. The sanitary condition of the island should be improved at once. First, by building outhouses for the use of each family. Second, by enlarging a sufficient number of dwellings to secure good sleeping apartments for those who have large families. These improvements would benefit the natives morally as well as physically. The use of more vegetables on the island would result in great benefit to them, and I would respectfully recommend that the lessees be instructed to send to the island, and keep on sale at all times, a large supply of canned tomatoes and other cheap varieties of vegetables. It has been demonstrated that turnips, onions, radishes, etc., can be grown successfully upon the islands of Bering Sea, and the officer in charge should be instructed to have a garden made each year for general use, taking the precaution to obtain the necessary seeds prior to leaving for the island in the spring. The fuel supply is altogether too small, notwithstanding the 30 tons of coal furnished by the Department this year. The very limited amount of driftwood found upon the-island is too wet to burn without the assistance of blubber, which can not be secured in sufficient quantity since seals have become so scarce that they can only be taken in limited numbers. The natives are obliged to carry on their backs from 2 to 6 miles what little driftwood they can pick up. They have no other means of transportation. In order to make them comfortable, I would recommend that 100 tons of coal bo furnished the natives of St. George Island each year. The schools have been taught by a teacher employed by the North American Commercial Company, in accordance with the terms of the lease, beginning September 1, 1890, and ending April 30, 1891, inclusive. The total number of pupils in attendance was 20. The age of the oldest pupil attending school was 15 years, the youngest 7. But little progress, if any, has been made in the English language. These people are very devout members of the Greek Church, the service of which is Conducted in the Russian language. Heretofore it has been the custom to have the pupils taught that language that they might be able to take part in the church services. As a result, the efforts made to teach the natives the language of their country have been neutralized. The teaching of the Russian language upon the island should be prohibited. While I would not interfere in any manner with the religious tendencies of these ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 299 people, it is my conviction that their church services, if conducted in the English language, would be a powerful agent in improving them educationally. I would recommend that a competent female teacher be employed. A large majority of the pupils are girls, and they are in need of domestic knowledge more than any other. A uniform system of schoolbooks, such as are in use at the Government school at Unalaska, would be an improvement upon the books now in use.- The school-teacher and the doctor should be employees of the Goverument and subject to the order of the officer in charge. Better government of the island would be the result. The widows, orphans, and destitute persons on the island should be supplied with all the necessaries of life by the North American Commercial Company in accordance with the conditions of the lease, and I would respectfully recommend that a weekly ration of food, an allowance of fuel, and a quarterly allowance of clothing be fixed by the Secretary of the Treasury, to be distributed by the officer in charge. This would be more satisfactory to the natives and relieve the company of all responsibility. The North American Commercial Company has delivered to the officer in charge 15 barrels of salt salmon, which, together with 10 barrels left over from last season, is more than sufficient for use during the coming winter and spring. Why the change has been made, and salt salmon substituted for dried, I do not know. They have also delivered to the officer in charge 30 tons of coal, which is a portion of the 80 tons to be furnished free for use of natives on both islands. In addition thereto, they have delivered 30 tons of coal on an order from the Secretary of the Treasury, and a receipt for the same was signed. The violations of the lease mentioned in my letter to the Department in April last have been satisfactorily adjusted. The price of wood has been reduced and is now sold as cheaply as it can be without loss to the company. The merchandise purchased this year for sale to the natives is first class in every particular, and the prices charged therefor are reasonable. All goods are marked to sell at 25 per cent above wholesale cost in San Francisco. The general agent of the company has agreed to make all necessary repairs to the dwellings asked, for by me; he also agreed to attend to the hygienic and sanitary condition of the island. The Government officers and employees of the company, if married men, who are to remain on the island during the winter season, should have their families with them. This practice would have a moral influence over the native inhabitants which can be obtained in no other way. In the selection of school teachers I am pleased to state that the Department has acted upou the suggestion of the present Treasury agents, and Mrs. Nettleton will hereafter act as teacher upon the island of St. George; and I am satisfied that the pupils will improve Aery much in domestic and other knowledge. There were more than 1,100 foxes trapped on the island last winter, which was 400 in excess of the number which should have been taken. The North American Commercial Company has raised the price of fox skins over tbat paid by the former lessees. This encourages the natives to attend to their traps better than they have done in former years, and unless the number taken be limited each year, this valuable species of fur-bearing animal will in a short time be exterminated. That there were too many killed during the winter of 1890-91 is plain to any person who is familiar with the island. The maximum number annually to be taken should not exceed 700. By forbidding the practice of trapping during the winter of 1891-92, I think 700 could be taken each year hereafter without danger of extermination. Satisfactory arrangements have been made whereby the natives can obtain the necessaries of life during the coming winter, and I do not anticipate unusual suffering among them. All their money will be gone before spring, with a very little prospect of a large number of seals being taken next season. Some arrangement should therefore be made whereby they can be supplied with food and clothing during the winter of 1892 and 1893. All of which is respectfully submitted*. Albert W. Lavender, Assistant Treasury Agent. Maj. W. H. Williams, Agent in Charge of the Seal Islands, Alaska. 300 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Special Agent Williams; Number of Seals hilled, 1891. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, September 7,1891. Sir: Beferring to Department's letter of the 5th instant (A. K. T.), with copy of a letter from the honorable the Secretary of State, of the 2Cth ultimo, wherein it is alleged that Her Majesty's Bering Sea commissioners have reported to their Government that the present year's catch of seals already materially exceeds 7,500, and urging that the provisions of the agreement of June 15,1891, shall be strictly observed, I have the honor to submit the following report: Beplying to that portion of the communication which states that more than 7,500 seals were killed "this year,"I have to say that if the period covered by the expression "this year" is intended by the commissioners of Her Majesty's Government to begin July 28, 1890, the assertion is correct. As stated by said commissioners, I did, and do now, construe the proclamation of the President of the United States to forbid the killing of more than 7,500 seals from the date of said proclamation and the modus vivendi, viz, June 15,1891, to May 1,1892. I arrived at the islands June 10,1891. The proclamation of the President was received by me July 2,1891. From June 15 to July 2 there were 4,471 seals killed. By my order this number was to be regarded as a portion of the 7,500 authorized to be taken to May, 1892. Since July 2 there have been 1,796 seals killed, making a total of 6,267 seals, or 1,233 seals short of the limit. It is probable that, in making their statement, the commissioners of Her Majesty's Government took cognizance of the number of seals killed subsequent to July 23,1890, and prior to June 15,1891. The skins of these seals, in number 7,215, were in the salt houses on the islands, awaiting shipment, on the last-named date. With reference to the comment of the commissioners on the construction placed by me on the modus vivendi and the President's proclamation, I am of theopin ion that my action, in including the seals killed from the date of both instruments above referred to as a portion of the 7,500 allowed to be killed, is evidence of my desire to comply strictly with the letter and spirit of the international agreement. It would seem to be the contention of the commissioners that skins shipped from the islands after June 15,1891, should not exceed 7,500, without reference to the time when taken. It is not clear by what process of reasoning skins taken prior to June 15,1891, should be counted as a portion of the number of seals authorized to be killed by the modus vivendi and the President's proclamation. Unless some portion of the skins of seals taken prior to June 15, last, is included, I am absolutely safe in saying that the statement of the commissioners to the effect that the number to be killed this vear, as fixed by the President's proclamation, has been exceeded is erro neous. Department's instructions of June 15,1891, and received by me at the same time of the proclamation, July 2, were as follows: "If, in any way, your instructions are inconsistent with the proclamation, be governed by the latter." I herewith inclose copy of proclamation received by me, and call especial attention to articles 1 and 2 of the modus vivendi contained therein. It may be proper to remark here that, in conversation with the commissioners concerning the time when the provisions of article 1 of the modus vivendi took effect, it was claimed by them and admitted by me that said article became operative on the date when the modus vivendi ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 301 was signed, viz, June 15,1891. Article 2, affecting the interests of the United States, provides that seals in excess of 7,500 shall not be killed for the same period as that stated in article 1. The articles cited are mutually binding, and I assume it will not be claimed that their provisions were to take effect on one date in the interest of British sealers and on another date in the interest of the United States. Bespectfully, yours, Wm. H. Williams, Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. Hon. Charles Foster, Secretary of the Treasury. Special Agent Williams; Number of Seals taken, 1891. Washington, October 8,1891. Sir : Beferring to our conversation of the 6th instant relating to my report of September 7, in regard to seals killed upon, the islands of St. George and St. Paul during the past year, I have the honor to submit further upon the subject the following: The lessees were prohibited from killing seals for the season of 1890 after July 20. The first killing, for food, after that date was made by the natives July 28, and from that time to December 31, 1890, there were killed, for food, by the natives 2,750 seals; the skins of 106 were small and stagey and were given to the natives, the remaining 2,644 (1,231 of which were stagey) were placed in the salt houses by the Government agents. From January 1 to May 1, 1891, no seals were on the islands, hence none were taken. From May 1 to June 10,1891, the latter being the date of my arrival at the islands, there were 1,651 seals killed by the natives, for food, the skins of which were placed in the salt houses by the Government agents, making a total of 4,295 seals killed by-the natives, for food, the skins of which were in the salt houses on my arrival at the islands. The foregoing number includes about 50 skins, mostly rejected, from former years' catch, and 147 skins taken from cow seals killed by raiders on the islands in September, 1890, who were driven off before they had secured their plunder, but does not include 3,468 small pup seals killed by the natives in November and December of last year, the skins of which were used by them for clothing and other purposes. On the morning of June 11,1891,1 gave permission to the lessees to commence killing on a quota of 7,500, as directed in Department telegram of May 27, and which is as follows: The Bush will receive orders to sail to-day; you and the other agents will take passage on her. The Corwin will follow in a few days. By her will be forwarded to you fuU instructions. The memorandum copy of proposed instructions which you now have will be your guide until Corwin arrives; maximum number is yet to be determined, and other modifications are probable. If 7,500 are taken before Corwin arrives you will stop killing and await instructions. See that the other agents take passage*with you. From June 11 to June 15, 2,920 seals were killed by the lessees as a part of their quota of 7,500, making 4,295 seals killed for food, by the natives, and 2,920 seals killed by the lessees as a part of their quota, or a total of 7,215 seals killed prior to June 15,1891, the skins of which mm 302 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. were in the salt houses before the signing of the modus vivendi and the President's proclamation. From June 15 to receipt of the President's proclamation containing the modus vivendi, to wit, July 2, on St. Paul, and July 8, on St. George, there were 4,471 seals killed by the lessees as part of their quota. After careful consideration of the modus vivendi, by myself and the other agents, it was determined that the 4,471 seals killed since June 15 should be deducted from the 7,500 named in Art. II, of the international agreement, thus leaving but 3,029 to be taken for the " subsistence and care of the natives" from July 2,1891, to May 1,1892. The assertion by the British Bering Sea commissioners that the 7,500 seals to be taken for the " subsistence and care of the natives," as provided in Art. II of the modus vivendi, has been exceeded, is not warranted by the facts nor by their views expressed to me in conversation upon that subject. On July 28 Sir George Baden Powell and Dr. G. M. Dawson, the British commissioners, called on me at the Government house on St. Paul Island, and after an exchange of views upon seal life and the presence of sealing vessels in Bering Sea the following conversation occurred, in substance: I remarked that the President's proclamation states very distinctly that the international agreement closes May 1,1892, but gives no date when it commences other than the date of signature. When do you say that your Government will commence to prevent seals being caught in Bering Sea? Sir George answered, From the signing of the agreement. Do I understand, then, I inquired, that your Government did not agree to prevent sealing prior to June 15? He answered, Yes; and that is not all; our Government must have reasonable time after the 15th to notify its officers and get its war vessels into the sea before it can be required to enter upon the fulfillment of its part of the contract. I said I was very glad to get his views as to the time covered by the modus vivendi; that Article II, which related to that part of the agreement that my Government was to observe, permitted for the same period, to wit, June 15 to May next, 7,500 seals to be killed "for the subsistence and care of the natives." He answered, No; your Government is permitted to kill only 7,500 seals for the season. I replied that the word season was not in the agreement. He asked me to let him take the proclamation, which I held in my hand, and after carefully reading it, said, I admit that your interpretation is correct, but have you not other instructions'? I answered, Yes; but if in any way my former instructions are inconsistent with the proclamation I am required to be governed by the latter. He replied that it was the understanding of his Government that only 7,500 seals should be taken this season, and that the President had no right to issue such a proclamation. I said to him that the agreement in the proclamation was signed by the representatives of both Governments, and that I could not do otherwise than follow the wording of the modus vivendi. He remarked, You are correct as to the reading of the proclamation, but I think our Government intended that only 7,500 seals should be taken during the season. I asked him what he meant by the season. He answered, The period of time within which seals are usually killed. I replied that the time varied from year to year, and that I could not be governed by what anyone might say was the intention of the two Governments, but that I must be guided solely by my instructions. He answered, Of course, you are right according to the wording of this proclamation; and then asked me to let him retain the copy which I had handed him ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 303 a short time before. The conversation then turned on other matters, and soon after the commissioners returned to their ship. A few days later the British commissioners spent the evening on shore in company with myself and several others, and after they put on their overcoats and got to the door to leave, Sir George said, Major, I have a letter for you. We thought you would like to have our views on the subject we were conversing about the other day. Of course, you will be guided by your instructions and not by anything we might say. He then handed me the letter and immediately left, and early next morning sailed for St. George Island. A copy of the letter referred to is herewith transmitted. It will be observed that the commissioners express the "opinion, based upon the information in our possession, that the intention of the two Governments as conveyed by Article II of the modus vivendi was that, on the part of the United States, the stipulation would be strictly observed to limit the catch this season to 7,500 seals, and to stop the killing when that number had been taken." These gentlemen did not intimate to me during the conversation referred to that they were in possession of any information as to the intention of the two Governments, as expressed in the modus vivendi, but only stated their impression of what was such intention, and were surprised upon reading the proclamation to find that it did not sustain their views. I must confess my surprise to receive such a letter from them after the conversation referred to, especially as I was aware that they had no opportunity after that conversation to receive further information on the subject. It appears from the communication of the British minister to Secretary Blaine of August 26 that in reporting to their Government the commissioners assumed that "this year's catch of seals" should not exceed 7,500, while in their conversation with me they referred to the killing season to which the limit of 7,500 was to be applied. Certainly the two periods are not identical. The word season as used in connection with the killing of seals upon the islands of St. George and St. Paul covers the time within which the lessees kill seals for commercial purposes, and, as the records on the islands for the last twenty years show, commences early in June and ends the last of July. My decision that Article II of the modus vivendi permitted the killing of 7,500 seals between the dates of June 15,1891, and May, 1892, was not adopted hastily nor without careful consideration by myself and the other officers of the islands. I submitted the proclamation and my instructions to Special Agent J. Stanley-Brown, Assistant Agents Murray, Lavender, and Nettleton, Speeiallnspector Milton Barnes, Captain Cotton, of the Mohican, Captain Beiter, of the Thetis, Captain Hooper, of the Corwin, and to the United States commissioners, Professor Mendenhall and Dr. Merriam, and all concurred in my interpretation of the agreement that seals killed prior to June 15 did not form part of the 7,500 named in the modus vivendi. It was urged in the discussion that the true meaning and spirit of Article II was that 7,500 seals might be killed for the subsistence and care of the natives after June 15, and that 4,471 seals killed by the lessees as part of their quota subsequent to June 15, and before I received the President's proclamation, should not be deducted from this number; and had it not been that the matter was a subject of international agreement, and that I was extremely desirous that by no possible action of mine should there be cause of complaint on the part 304 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. of the British Government, I should have taken that view, for I regard the modus vivendi justly subject to that interpretation. It is a fact that when the lessees kill seals for commercial purposes the natives are kept very busy and have no time to prepare the meat for future use, and only such part of it is used for food as the women cut off from the carcasses on the field from day to day for present use. This was the case with the 4,471 seals killed between June 15 and July 2, the greater number of which were killed in the first five days after the 15th, and no attempt was made to save any part of the meat for food except a few that were killed at intervals between June 20 and July 2. It will be remembered that after deducting 4,471 seals killed by the lessees as part of their quota there would be left but 3,029 seals for "the subsistence and care of the natives" from July 2 until May next. I found it necessary to kill 1,796 of this latter number prior to August 11. A portion of the meat was salted by the natives, to be used during the stagy season, when they were not allowed to kill seals. This left but 1,233 seals to be killed for their subsistence until May next, a number much too small for that purpose, and I was compelled to ask the North American Commercial Company to bring salt beef to the islands for issue to the natives, the cost of which the Government will have to pay, for the natives have not money enough of their own to maintain themselves until May next. Bespectfully, yours, Wm. H. Williams, Agent in charge of Seal Islands. Hon. Charles Foster, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Steamship Danube, St. Paul, July SO, 1891. Dear Sir: With reference to our conversation of the 28th instant, relative to the limitation of the number of seals to be killed under the agreement come to by the Governments of the United States and Great Britain, we think you may be glad to receive this expression of our opinion, based upon the information in our possession, that the intention of the two Governments, as conveyed by Article II of the modus vivendi, was that on the part of the United States the stipulation would be strictly observed to limit the catch this season to 7,500 seals, and to stop the killing when that number had been taken. As you were good enough to invite our opinion on the above subject, we venture to place it in your hands, although the question is apart from the immediate scope of our inquiry. We remain, dear sir, yours, very faithfully, George Baden Powell. George M. Dawson. Maj. W. H. Williams, etc. 1892. Special Agent Williams; Annual Report, 1892. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, December 31, 1892. Sir: I have the honor to submit my annual report as Treasury agent in charge of the seal islands for the year ending December 31, 1892. On my return from the seal islands, in September, 1891, and after the completion of my report for that year, you directed me to report ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 305 for duty in the customs service during the season of inaction on the seal islands, which I did, until March 19,1892, when I received the following instructions: Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, March 19,1892. Sir : Upon receipt of this communication you will report in person to Hon. John W. Foster at the Department of State, and will render such assistance in matters which will be made known to you by him concerning the pending controversy regarding Bering Sea as may be practicable. The honorable the Secretary of State has been advised of the assignment of yourself and (Assistant) Special Agents A. W. Lavender and Joseph Murray to this duty. Respectfully, yours, O. L. Spauldlng, Acting Secretary. Mr. William H. Williams, Special Agent, Washington, D. C. In pursuance to the foregoing instructions, I reported to the Hon. John W. Foster, and also directed Assistant Agents Murray and Lavender to do the same. I was informed that it was desired that myself and assistants proceed at once to the Pacific coast and procure sueh information as might be obtained in relation to the fur-seal industry. The inquiry was to embrace, in all of its various relations to the commercial world, the habits and condition of this valuable fur-bearing animal from its earliest history to the present time, with the view of placing the same before the arbitrators in the Bering Sea case now pending between our Government and Great Britain. I instructed Assistant Agent Joseph Murray to proceed to Port Townsend, Wash., and take passage on the United States cruiser Albatross, which was under orders to cruise north to Cooks Inlet, Prince William Sound, and Kadiak, and Assistant Agent A. W. Lavender to go to the same place and take passage on the United States revenue cutter Corwin. which was to cruise north along the coast to Sitka, with full instructions as to the nature of their duties. I went to San Francisco, and was actively engaged in taking evidence from San Diego, Cal., to Yictoria, British Columbia, until May 7, at which time I received Department instructions of May 2 (copy inclosed2) and sailed the same day for the Pribilof Islands on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha. Agent Murray arrived at Port Townsend from his trip on the Albatross April 28, and I directed him to leave on the first Government vessel going to the islands, and also sent instructions for Agent Lavender to do the same on his return from the north. I arrived at Unalaska May 20, and as the North American Commercial Company's steamer would be delayed at that place for some days, I applied to Commander Evans, of the United States cruiser YorMown, who very kindly gave me passage to St. Paul Island, at which place I arrived May 24. Assistant Agent Murray arrived at Unalaska in time to take passage with me on the Yorktown, and Assistant Agent Lavender arrived a few days later on the revenue cutter Corwin. The former I placed in charge of St. Paul Island to relieve Special Employee Milton Barnes, who had permission to return to San Francisco, he having remained on the island during the previous winter, and the latter in charge of St. George Island to relieve Assistant Agent Nettleton,-who also, for a similar reason, had permission to return to Port Townsend. Department instructions of May 2 clearly defined my duties, and on leaving the islands (June 10) I turned them over to Mr. J. Stanley- 1 See Exhibit A of report of J. Stanley-Brown. H. Doc. 92 20 II 306 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Brown, as directed, who was to temporarily be in charge during my absence, and on the same day departed for Unalaska and Port Town- send, arriving at the latter place June 24. After completing my labors in the Puget Sound country I was directed to come to Washington, and was engaged at the State Department in the Bering Sea case until September 26, when I was again ordered to San Francisco to take evidence in the counter case. I returned to Washington November 20, and since that time have been engaged at the State Department in pursuance of instructions from the honorable Secretary of State. My duties connected with the State Department have been incessant, and of such a nature that, since June 10, I have had but little time to devote to my duties as the chief executive officer of the islands. As a result of my year's work, I have accumulated a large amount of evidence relating to seal life, which has been transmitted to the honorable Secretary of State, and will be used with other evidence in connection with the Bering Sea arbitration case. The reports of Treasury Agents J. Stanley-Brown, Joseph Murray, and A. W. Lavender for 1892 are on file with the Department, and set forth very fully matters of interest connected with the islands. Especially is this the case with the report of Mr. J. Stanley-Brown, who was the agent in charge after my departure June 10, and I would respectfully call attention to the same.as correctly expressing my own views upon the various subjects of which it treats. It is in line with the reports made by the agents the year previous, and I would respectfully urge that the Department take action on the recommendations contained therein. Before leaving the islands in 18911 left strict instructions that no fur seal should be killed during the stagey season, and no pup seals should be killed at any time. The stagey period for that year was determined to be between the dates of August 12 and October 25. Notwithstanding my instructions in this respect, Agent S. B. Nettleton, of St. George Island, permitted the natives to drive at various times and kill for food 282 seals. A portion of the skins was rejected by the agent of the company on account of being stagey, but were subsequently accepted by them in San Francisco. The agent claimed that the natives demanded seal meat for food, but I am of the opinion that this did not warrant disobedience on his part of positive instructions upon this subject, especially as there was plenty of other food supplies on the island at the time. I would reiterate what was said in my former report that the fur seals should not be killed or disturbed during this eventful period of their existence. It is at this time that the seals are shedding their hair. The harems are broken up and the bulls, cows, holluschickie, and pups are mingling together, and it is impossible to make a drive without having more or less number of female seals in it. WRECKED SAILORS. crew of 29 men, was wrecked on St saved, but the vessel was a total loss April 12 the whaling vessel Alexander, of San Francisco, with a Paul Island. The crew were all The crew were destitute and had to be cared for by the North American Commercial Company until the arrival of the revenue cutter Bear, June 2. As they were making considerable trouble on the island, I requested Captain Healy to remove them to Unalaska, which he made arrangements to do. w ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 307 FUEL. In my report of 18911 spoke of the difference of opinion existing as to the issue of coal to widows, orphans, aged and infirm inhabitants, between the Government and company agents. It was claimed by the lessees' agent that under the terms of their lease "necessaries of life" applied only to food, and not to clothing and fuel. By mutual agreement the question was referred to the Department for decision, and it was further agreed that the company would furnish in sufficient quantities fuel and clothing to them pending the decision and in conformity therewith This agreement was only partly complied with, the company agent on St. Paul Island refusing to issue over 100 pounds of coal per week to a family during the coldest weather in winter. This made it necessary to supplement the company issue of coal by an issue from the Government coal in order to keep this class of indigent persons from suffering. In the instructions of May 2, 1892 (p. 8), appears the following: Your especial attention is called to that clause of the lease which states that the company "will also provide the necessaries of life for the widows, orphans, and aged and infirm inhabitants of said islands who are unable to provide for themselves," and you are informed that the Department understands that this clause includes widows and all other persons, regardless of age, sex, or condition of parentage, who are physically unable to provide for themselves. The "necessaries of life" referred to therein includes fuel as well as clothing and subsistence. This decision of the Department is questioned by the agent of the lessees, and I infer from his letter to Mr. J. Stanley-Brown, the Government agent in charge at the time (Brown's report), that a claim is to be presented at some future time by the North American Commercial Company for all coal furnished by them to the widows, orphans, and aged and infirm inhabitants. The question of weekly allowance of fuel to each family has arisen this year and should be provided for in next year's instructions. The matter ought to be easily and satisfactorily adjusted, for whatever amount of fuel the Government agent may find necessary to issue weekly to the family of a native sealer, the same amount should be provided each week by the company to a family to whom, under the terms of their lease, the lessees are to furnish the "necessaries of lite." It takes as much fuel to cook the food and warm the house of one family as it does that of another, and of a necessity the issue of coal must be regulated by the season of the year and the condition of the weather. GOVERNMENT AID TO THE NATIVES. Owing to the small number of seals killed by the natives in the last few years the savings of former years of most of them were exhausted at the close of the year 1891, and I set forth in my report for that year that it would be necessary to extend aid to keep them from suffering. Nineteen thousand five hundred dollars was appropriated by Congress at its last session for that purpose, and a careful and economical expenditure of the same has been the desire of the Government agents. How to extend relief unto the needy and not have it appear that the Government would in the future support them in idleness was the chief object to be attained. It was with this end in view that compensation for watching on the rookeries and forjabor in making improvements on the islands was inaugurated, and tn*e agents report that their efforts in that direction were fairly successful. As to the sufficiency or insufficiency of the appropriation I am unable to report at the present ■pp ■Mi i '» 308 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. time, but the indications are that an appropriation fully as large will be necessary for the coming year. The natives have no way of sustaining themselves on these barren islands except by their earnings from killing seal for the North American Commercial Company, and the proceeds of the sale of blue-fox skins. Since the catch of seals was limited to 7,500 and the killing of foxes prohibited (in 1891) the earnings of the natives have been small as compared with former years. This prohibition against taking foxes became necessary on account of the immense slaughter (about 1,500) that took place in 1890. I am informed by Treasury Agent Brown that before leaving the islands he gave the natives permission to trap foxes for two months, commencing November 15. It is upon St. George Island that most of the foxes are taken, it being better adapted to supplying food for them by reason of the large number of birds that resort to this island to nest in the cliffs and rocks. It is also upon this island that a great number of moles are found, which constitute quite a factor in their supply of Winter food. In a letter just received from Treasury Agent A. W. Lavender, in charge of St. George Island, dated November 22, he says: We began to trap foxes on the 15th, as our instructions told us to, and up to date the natives have obtained 250 to 300 skins; had foxes been as plenty as they were the first season that I was here (1890), the first seven days they would have caught near 600; in fact one-half of the whole catch is made the first week. I have allowed the natives 12 traps each, as near as I could, although I well know that some of them have more than that number. There are about 325 traps out altogether. How is that for an island of this size? There will not be much need to invite instructions about trapping foxes if time is the limit in which foxes are taken instead of a limit in the number taken. It will be noticed that this is the condition of affairs after a year's rest in the taking of foxes, and if the present methods are to be continued extermination at an early period seems probable. Especially will this be true if the natives receive anything like a fair value for the skins, for in their straitened circumstances each native will try and secure the greatest number possible. The skin of the blue fox sells readily from $12 to $20 in the San Francisco market, but the price paid the natives is usually from $1 to $2 per skin. 1 had applications from outside parties for the privilege of buying fox skins of the natives, but 1 did not deem it advisable to grant this privilege, and would advise against it if a fair price can be obtained for the skins from the lessees and the proceeds used in a proper manner for the maintenance of the natives. So valuable has the fur of this animal become that white men have obtained the privilege of stocking some of the Alaskan islands with blue foxes, at considerable expense, and breed them for commercial purposes. The steel trap now used permits ho selection of sex, and 1 would therefore suggest that there be substituted for it the large wooden box trap. If the latter were used the vixens could be turned away and only the mature males taken, thus providing for a sure annual increase. If this were done—a fair price being obtained for the skins and the same put into a community fund, as is now done with the proceeds of their labor in taking the seal skins—an industry would soon be built u»p that would greatly assist in making the natives self-supporting. In my instructions of 18911 was informed that the natives were considered wards of the Government. In view of this and the further fact that Congress is called upon to make appropriations for their support, itvwould seem to be well to formulate some regulations covering this question. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 309 RUSSIAN RITUAL. I did not succeed in obtaining a copy of the Russian Bitual at the islands, but subsequently, while in San Francisco, procured a copy, with several other books and papers belonging to the Greek service, and sent the same to the Department. I paid $18 for them and was reimbursed by the North American Commercial Company out of the translation fund in their possession. DISTRIBUTION OF SO-CALLED CHURCH FUND TO NATIVES. In pursuance to Department instructions of May 2 my successor distributed $3,344.10 among the natives on St. Paul Island and has given the details of the transaction in his report. I wish to add that in any event the North American Commercial Company should not be a sufferer by the action of the Government in this matter, but before there is any restitution of this money to the Greek Church I would advise that a careful investigation be made of the abuses to which these people are subjected by the so-called priests under the cloak of teachers and spiritual advisers. It is not the desire of the Treasury agents to in any way interfere with the religious belief or mode of worship of these people, but when, through the ignorance or immorality of a priest, their religious doctrine becomes perverted and, by the influence of his example, they are kept in a state of barbarism, is it not time for the Government to inquire whether, under the plea of religious privileges and treaty rights, this condition of affairs is to continue*? The influence of the priests over these people is something wonderful, and when wrongfully used, as it frequently is on the islands, debases them to the condition of brutes. The Treasury agents are powerless as against the influence of the priest, and no sort of punishment will correct the evil of drunkenness and immorality so long as the priest is one of the chief offenders. The Government should insist that the Greek Church send no one to the islands as priest who is not a man of character and can render the service of their church in the English language. Government wards on a Government reservation and supported by Government appropriations are entitled to Government protection in their education as American citizens and the observance of the ordinary proprieties of civilization. SCHOOLS. In my report of last year I called attention to the fact that after more than twenty years of Government control there were not a half dozen natives who had learned to speak or read the English language by attendance at the public school, and so long as the present system is followed failure can be predicted with absolute certainty. The lessees complied with their contract and furnished teachers for the length of time required, but so far as producing favorable results is concerned it was a waste of time and money, and so it will be so long as the present condition exists. When the time arrives that these children can be placed under faithful Christian teachers who will teach them habits of industry and morality, and under these conditions the blessings of home and home life, then may we look for gratifying results, but not before. A practical demonstration of this is to be seen at the native school at Unalaska presided over by Mr. and Mrs. Tuck. 310 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. RAIDS. On November 17,1891, the steam sloop Challenge (American) made a raid on St. George Island and secured about 30 skins. The crew were arrested and vessel seized a few days thereafter at Unalaska. The vessel was confiscated and her captain aud crew sent to Sitka, where they were tried, convicted, and sent to jail. While making the raid the vessel narrowly escaped loss with all on board. The British Columbia schooner Borealis made a raid on St. Paul Island November 27 and took about 400 skins. The captain (Hansen) was afterwards arrested and is now in Sitka jail awaiting trial. He is a notorious character and boasts of having made raids for five years in succession. Every effort is being made to obtain the necessary evidence to convict and punish him. TREASURY REGULATIONS. I deem it important that some well-formulated Treasury regulations be adopted for the guidance of the Treasury agents aud other residents on the islands. It is for the interest of good government that this be done at an early date. ENFORCEMENT OF LAW AND ORDER. I would suggest that Congress be invited to amend section 1959, Revised Statutes, by striking out the word "War" and inserting that of "Treasury." The law is inoperative as it now stands, for the War Department has no forces within hundreds of miles of the islands, consequently the Treasury agents are compelled to call upon the revenue cutters to enforce the provisions of this act. JANITORS. As directed in Department instructions, I employed a native on each island to perform janitor's work for the Government house at a compensation of $20 per month. GOVERNMENT HOUSES. The Government house on each island has been painted and repaired this year, and both are in good condition. 1 REPORTS. I inclose the report of Treasury Agent S. R. Nettleton. The reports of Treasury Agents Joseph Murray and A. W. Lavender are on file at the Department with the report of Treasury Agent J. Stanley-Brown. IN GENERAL. . In my two years' service as Treasury agent in charge of the seal islands I have had the earnest support of the assistant agents, and our social and official relations have been cordial and pleasant. I have consulted with them on matters of importance and a unanimity of opinion and purpose has prevailed. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 311 I wish to testify to the uniform kindness of the company's agents, who have done much to make my sojourn on these far-away islands pleasant and agreeable. Respectfully, yours, Wm. H. Williams, Treasury Agent in Charge of the Seal Islands. Hon. Charles Foster, Secretary of the Treasury. Assistant Agent Nettleton; Beportfor 1892. St. George Island, Alaska, June 10,1892. Sir : I respectfully submit the following report of affairs on this island since the date of my last report, November 23, 1891, to date: health of the natives. Attached hereto and marked AA please find the two several reports of Dr. L. A. Noyes, resident physician. In this connection I desire to commend the vigilant and faithful manner in which Dr. Noyes has discharged the duties of his position. school. Attached hereto, and marked B, please find report of Mrs. Nettleton, teacher. Mrs. Nettleton found the work of teaching these native children perplexing, disappointing, and somewhat discouraging. While it may be said that she did her utmost to discharge her duties faithfully and well, the results reached are not such as she or the Treasury agent in.charge had hoped for. The very young pupils made much the more encouraging advancement, and the older ones made very fair progress. Perhaps, under all circumstances, as much was accomplished as could be expected. On Friday afternoons, during nearly all of the term, Mrs. Nettleton had the girls of her school, as well as the older girls of the village not in school, at the Government house, where they were instructed in sewing, needlework, etc. There is cause for encouragement in this branch of their education. I am of the opinion that there is small probability of these people acquiring much knowledge of the English language so long as they hear nothing but the Aleut language out of school hours, and so long as the services of their church are conducted in the Russian or Aleut language, and their communications with the representatives of the lessees of the islands is largely in other than the English language. fuel supply. The winter was very severe, more snow lying on the ground during the entire season than during any previous winter for several years. If the extra supply of coal had not been furnished by the Department last fall these people must have suffered. It would have been impossible, on account of the depth of snow,*to gather driftwood. If it had been possible, the wood could hardly be used as fuel in the absence of a supply of seal blubber. The supply of coal, by economy in its use, kept the natives in comfort throughout the winter, and there are at this writing 7 tons remaining. SUBSISTENCE OF THE NATIVES. As you are aware, it was supposed last fall that, owing to the limited seal catch last year and the consequent small amount earned by the natives, their credit on the books of the lessees would not be sufficient to carry the people through the winter. The amount standing to the credit of the natives on the books of the lessees on August 12, 1891, was as follows: From the savings of previous years $2,933.27 From the division of 1891 1,350.00 Amount advanced by North American Commercial Company in 1891 1,725.00 6, 008.27 Less amount to credit of priest 1, 880. 70 Leaving balance to credit of natives 4,187.57 312 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Upon this amount, together with what was earned by them in working for the lessees and the sum of $283 donated by the resident agent of the lessees in household supplies- computed at invoice prices, the natives of this island have up to this date lived comfortably and well, not lacking any needed thing in the way of fuel, food, or clothing; and on March 13, 1891, there was due to them by the lessees, as shown by their books, the sum of $1,078.31, not including the amount due the priest. This, I am informed by the resident agent of the lessees, is a larger amount than has stood to their credit at the same time of year for several years previous. The Treasury agent in charge did not, therefore, find it necessary to involve the Government in any amount for natives' support during the period covered by this report. If their solicitations had been complied with and Government aid had been furnished them to procure holiday finery, etc., an indebtedness of an almost indefinite amount might have been incurred, for the amount of merchandise the average Aleut would purchase at the store of the lessees would be limited only by the cash in hand, their credit on the books of the company, and the amount in Government orders which they could obtain from the Treasury agent in charge. widows, orphans, and indigents. This class of the population, including those styled Iunmarried widows" and their offspring, have been well cared for by the lessees and reasonably well supplied with fuel, food, and clothing. SEALS KILLED FOR NATIVES' FOOD. The quota of this island of seals to be killed for natives' food for the season ending April 30, 1892, was 400. This number was killed, the skins being all prime except the 36 killed during the stagey season, as stated in my report dated November 23, 1891, and for reasons therein set forth. The first killing after the close of the stagey season was made on October 23, and the last killing on November 27. The killings for the present year, under authority of your telegram of October 15, 1891, have been as follows: At Zapadnie, in May, 19 were driven and 17 killed; the carcasses and skins packed by the natives to the village; skins all prime. At North Rookery, on May 20, about 50 were driven, 36 killed; skins all prime. One seal gave out, was clubbed, and skin included in above count." At North Rookery, on June 2,185 were driven and 103 killed; 82 were turned back; none perished by the way; skins all prime. At East Rookery, on June 8, 243 were driven, 111 killed, 132 turned away; skins accepted. In accordance with your instructions, no foxes were killed during the winter. Three dead ones were found by the natives, and skins were delivered to the company, awaiting your instructions. Having availed myself of every opportunity during the winter and spring to gather data by which to make an estimate of the number of foxes on this island, I am satisfied that there are not to exceed 300. conduct of the natives. The conduct of the natives has been such as to merit words of praise. It has not been necessary to summon anyone before the Government officer, and they have cheerfully complied with every requirement emanating from the Government house. For the reason, among others, that each native head of a family was, by your direction, allowed to purchase one pound of sugar per week, a reasonably close watch was kept for evidences of quas, and, with two minor exceptions, no evidences of intoxication or of quas brewing have been found. If quas was manufactured, it was used quietly in the homes of the natives. Attached hereto, and marked E, please find census of the native population of St. George Island for the year 1891. Attached hereto, and. marked F, please find tabulated statement of the arrival of seals. Respectfully submitted. S. R. Nettleton, Assistant Special Treasury Agent. Maj. W. H. Williams, United States Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 313 St. George Island, Alaska, January 1, 1892. Sir: In compliance with your request for a statement of the health of the native inhabitants of this island, I submit the following: Since my last report, made to A. W. Lavender on August 3,1891, we have had less sickness than usual, and no deaths. At present the sick list is small, and the general condition of health of the natives is better than the average. Respectfully, Dr. L. A. Noyes, Physician, North American Commercial Company. S. R. Nettleton, Assistant United States Treasury Agent. St. George Island, Alaska, May 27,1892. Sir: I again respectfully submit a report of the health of the native population of this island. Since my arrival here, June 5, 1891, there has been 1 death and 4 births. There have been two light epidemics of influenza, one in the fall, the other in January; otherwise no serious illness aside from their scrofulous and pulmonary troubles. Their present slate of health is, for these people, good. Respectfully, Dr. L. A. Noyes, Physician for North American Commercial Company. S. R. Nettleton, Assistant United States Treasury Agent. St. George Island, Alaska, April 30,1892. Dear Sir: I herewith submit to you the following school report for the eight months from September 1, 1891, to April 30, 1892, both inclusive: Days taught 152£ Scholars enrolled 24 Days' attendance 3,343 J Daily average * 20.68 Scholars absent 21 Days absent 46 Excused by Government agent 8 Days excused by Government agent 5£ Excused on account of sickness - 13 Days excused on account of sickness 41£ Twenty-one scholars were enrolled the first three months; then 1 was excused by the Government agent, being past the school age. On the 7th of December 3 scholars began school, having arrived at the age of 5 years, which made 23 enrolled for the remaiuder of the term, and but 5 have been tardy during the term. Mrs. S. R. Nettleton, Teacher. S. R. Nettleton, Agent in charge. Il 314 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. In 1891. May 4: Starry Ateel E. Rookery N. Rookery May 5: Zapadnie May 9: N. and Starry Ateel E. Rookery N. Rookery May 14: Zapadnie L. E. Rookery E. Rookery Starry Ateel May 15: Starry Ateel N. Rookery E. Rookery L. E. Rookery May 17: N. Rookery May 18: N. Rookery Zapadnie S. Ateel May 21: N. Rookery E. Rookery May 24: N. Rookery May 25: Zapadnie May 28: E. Rookery N. Rookery S. Ateel May 30: Zapadnie N. R. and S. Ateel.. June 3: Zapadnie E. Rookery c. Arrival of seals. Bulls. Hollucks. 14 9 5 20 10 10 22 20 6 42 50 10 (a) (a) 100 200 14 25 20 30 10 30 40 200 100 50 10 250 48 6300 200 In 1892. May 2: North Rookery May 3: N. Rookery E. Rookery May 4: N. Rookery Starry Ateel E. Rookery May 7: k Zapadnie May 8: N. Rookery S. Ateel E. Rookery May 12: N. Rookery S. Ateel E. Rookery May 13: Zapadnie May 17: E. Rookery L. E. Rookery. May 23: Zapadnie May 25: E. Rookery L. E. Rookery .. N. Rookery S. Ateel May 26: N. Rookery June 3: Zapadnie Bulls. 3 4 4 21 6 9 16 35 10 40 Hollucks. 3 4 6 2 2 14 20 30 50 2 20 20 &40 c500 a Not counted. b And 1 cow. c And 107 cows. 1 2 3 4 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 06 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 Lestinkoff, Innokenty. Lestinkoff, Elizabeth.. Lestinkoff, Helena Lestinkoff, Mary Lestinkoff, Michael Lestinkoff, Sarah Skaisnikoff, Julia Dekanoff, Anfasia Dekanoff, Katie Dekanoff, Helena Lestinkoff, Demetri Lestinkoff, Anna Merculief, Mark Philimonoff, Andronic. Philimonoff, Zenovia Philimonoff, Mariana.. Philimonoff, Simeon... Philimonoff, Evodokia. Philimonoff, Inokenty. Philimonoff, Eedosia Philimonoff, Joseph.... Philimonoff, Adrain Philimonoff, Perascovia Philimonoff, Peligia Philimonoff, Eoff Philimonoff, Olleta Philimonoff, Gregoria.. Philimonoff, Eugenia.. Philimonoff, Demetri .. Oustigoff, Eproxia Malavansky, Nicoli Malavansky, Repsemia Malavansky, Wassa Malavansky, Stepneda. Malavansky, Kleopatra Malavansky, Peter Oustigoff, Susan Nederazoff, Arkenty... Nederazoff, JSugenia Nederazoff, Marina Nederazoff, Nicolas Nederazoff, Isadore Lekanoff, Stepan Lekanoff, Pelegia Lekanoff, Annalolia Lekanoff, Sergius Prokopieff, Peter Prokopieff, Afanasia... Rezanoff, Eedosia Rezanoff, Innokenty Rezanoff, Serefenia Oustigoff, Alexa Oustigoff, Martha Oustigoff, Mike Oustegoff, Simeon Swetzoff, Eustin Swetzoff, Catherine Swetzoff, Gregori Swetzoff, Polexenia.... Swetzoff, Frevona Gorokoff, Corneal Gorokoff, Katerina Galanin, Parafaria Galanin, Alex Kulikulieff, Evan Kulikulieff Varivaria.. Vickaloff, Evdokia Rezanzoff, Peter Rezanzoff, Matrona Rezanzoff, Tatianna Shane, Riessa Shane, Olleta Shane, Michael Merculieff, Stepan Merculieff, Nadesda Galanin, Ocolena Galanin, Evan Merculieff, Eevrona Merculieff, Joseph 316 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census for St. George Island, Alaska, for 1891—Continued. >> i © a 0Q r-t 03 <D I Ph 80 81 82 20 83 84 85 86 87 88 21 89 Name. Sex. Merculieff, George | M. Merculieff, Stepinda .% Merculieff, Helena Merculieff, John Merculieff, Wassalesa Merculieff, Evan Merculieff, Alexandra. Merculieff, Evdokia Merculieff, Helena Merculieff, Anna E E. F. M. F. M. F. F. F. Family relation. Son Daughter. do.... Son Widow ... Son Daughter. do .... do .... do Age. 18 16 7 2 40 15 13 8 5 2 Males... Females 40 49 Total 1 1 89 Report of Agent J. Stanley-Brown for 1892. Washington, D. 0., December 1,1892. Sir : On May 10,1892, yon did me the honor to instruct me (Exhibit A) to proceed to the Pribilof Islands to relieve Maj. W. H. Williams, whose services were needed elsewhere, and to assume the duties of Treasury agent in charge in addition to my more specific task of continuing the investigation of seal life on the islands. Those instructions have been carried out, and permission is now asked to lay before you my administrative report for the season of 1892. REPORT ON SEAL LIFE. In course of preparation.—Before proceeding to the details of this communication, however, it should be stated that a report embodying the results of my study of seal and sea otter life during the past two seasons is in course of preparation and will be completed at as early a day as the duties assigned me since my return in connection with the Bering Sea arbitration will permit. By your direction, the data obtained during the season of 1891 was placed at the disposal of the American Bering Sea Commissioners, while everything collected up to date will have been made available in the preparation of the case and counter case to be laid before the Paris tribunal. Character of data collected.—During the course of my investigations plans have been developed and facts and materials secured which can be utilized by the Government for determining with no little accuracy and beyond all questioning any changes that may occur in future years upon the rookeries. Indeed, this purpose of preparing a substantial basis for future work has been kept steadily in mind. Upon charts of a scale of 264 feet to the inch have been placed my observations as to the areas occupied by the seals during the past two seasons. These maps have been lithographed, and upon them as a base has also been placed all information obtainable from other sources concerning the oscillation of the rookeries. From fixed stations indicated on the charts, photographs were also taken of the rookeries, and in order that the Department may be informed in the future as to changes in the rookery areas these results ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 317 can be duplicated from year to year, provided suitable arrangements are made for doing so. Recommendation.—The appropriation under which the work is now carried on being a continuing one and made to meet an emergency, has very properly been discontinued from June 30,1893. In view of this fact, it is earnestly urged that the attention of Congress be drawn to the matter, with the recommendation that in the appropriation bills of the U. S. Fish Commission an allotment be made for and a clause inserted requiring an annual report concerning the condition of seal life upon the Pribilof Islands. This seems to be a task that would with Xieculiar propriety be performed by this Bureau of the Government, as it is already equipped for such service both with vessels and trained experts, and any statements emanating from it would be beyond reproach. ITINERARY. In accordance with my instructions, the journey was made at once to San Francisco to take passage on the steamer St. Paul, which was supposed to leave this city on May 20. Arriving on the morning of that day, it was found that there was no probability of the vessel sailing before the first week in June. Knowing the importance of Major Williams leaving the islands not later than June 10, and that the United States revenue steamer Corwin was still at Port Townsend, passage was secured on that vessel on May 21 and Unalaska reached on June 7. Eemaining at that port only long enough to transact some business for the State Department, our luggage was transported to the United States revenue steamer Rush, and we proceeded by way of the native villages in the vicinity of Unalaska to the Seal Islands, arriving there on the afternoon of June 9. Major Williams was thus enabled to leave the islands on the following day. The letter of instructions given him was handed me for my guidance. (See inclosure, Exhibit A.) During the summer my entire time was given to the study of the problems connected with seal life, and to the duties incident to the administration of the islands of St. Paul and St. George. On August 14 the homeward journey was begun, and en route a short cruise was made in the Corwin to the southward of the islands and among the native villages of the Aleutian chain. On August 24 final passage was taken from Unalaska on the British Columbia collier Danube, bound for Victoria. This was the only conveyance at hand, as the Rush was prevented from making the trip to the coast at this time as had been planned by the necessity of retaining her in Bering Sea to perform the duties of the disabled Albatross. Beaching Victoria on the 2d of September, my arrival was telegraphed to the Department, and, after waiting forty-eight hours for instructions, I proceeded directly East. REGULATIONS. Their absence an embarrassment.—On entering upon my duties as agent in charge there was encountered the embarrassment which arose from the almost total absence of any formulated expression of the Department's views concerning the business management of the islands, nor were there any formulated rulings indicating the oificial construction of the terms of the lease. So far as could be found,e the only guide upon which the agent could rely was the information contained in the annual letter of instructions or such traditional lore as had been handed down orally by former agents. Agents come and agents go from year to year j the views of one Government representative to the islands 318 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. may not have been those of his predecessor, nor are they likely to be those of his successor, so that with no direction from the central head more specific than those indicated, and in t.he absence of continuity of executive management or formulated business policy, the interests, if not the rights, of some one of the three parties concerned—the Government, the natives, and the company—are likely to suffer. Undermost favorable conditions the just and efficient administration of the affairs of such an office is no sinecure, but in the present chaotic state of the industry and in the absence of business regulations, which should have been gradually developed as the result of years of experience, the relations between the Government and the company officers on the islands may at any time become strained. This is in no way intended as a reflection upon individuals, but simply an attempt to make clear to the Department a condition of affairs the existence of which is unfortunate. It should be borne in mind that two interests, in one sense mutual and in another widely diverse, and represented by two sets of officials, confront each other. On the one side are the representatives of the Government, sworn to fulfill the dutiesvof their office to the best of their ability and human powers, and on the other officers who, being charged with the welfare of the corporation which they represent, naturally believe it to be their duty to secure at all times the best interests of their employers, and in the execution of the company's obligations to the Government to apply an economic rather than a generous interpretation of those obligations. They do not represent a charitable or philanthropic enterprise, but a business concern. From the facts presented it will readily be seen that radical but honest differences of opinion may frequently arise between two sets of officials which, in the absence of any direct and specific regulations or authoritative decisions on the part of the Department, may become more or less frictional, the extent of which will depend upon the personal equation of the individuals representing the two interests. In the present instance, and with pleasant relations existing between the representatives of the Government and the company, the details of this report will show that such a state of affairs is embarrassing to officials cut off as they are from all but tardy communication with their superior. ASSISTANT TREASURY AGENTS. Their assignments.—Just before leaving Unalaska, Captain Hooper informed me that he had instructions from the Department to detail a revenue officer to relieve Agent Murray, on St. Paul Island, and that he had assigned Lieut. D. J. Ainsworth to that duty. Captain Lavender remains in charge of the island of St. George. In this connection I desire to make my acknowledgment as well as to express my appreciation of the hearty cooperative spirit displayed on all occasions by Agents Murray and Lavender in the management of the islands. Every request was cheerfully and promptly met and an effort continually made to intelligently and effectively fulfill the duties of their respective offices. THE ROOKERIES. Their condition.—While an extended statement concerning seal life on the islands is reserved for the report previously referred to, it is pertinent here to note briefly the present condition of the rookeries and their future prospects. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 319 Save in one direction, and this may be more apparent than real, there has been no improvement in the rookeries. By rookeries I mean both the "breeding grounds" and the "hauling grounds." On the "breeding grounds" there has been a perceptible falling off in numbers. This decrease is the more noticeable at points where the smaller groups of breeding seals are to be found. It is the old story of the little pool showing the effect of evaporation more plainly than the larger ones. . There was so little driving during the season of 1892 that an excellent opportunity was given to observe life upon the "hauling grounds," several of which were not disturbed during the entire season. Here there seemed to be a slight increase of the young bachelor seals, although, this may have been only apparent, from the fact that being unmolested they accumulated in larger bands. Driving and its effects.—All killing and driving was under the direction of a Treasury agent, and while the usual care was exercised, no change was made in the manner of driving, for the reason that I desired to satisfy myself as to the alleged injurious effect of driving upon the young male seals. The best illustration of such injurious effect arising from driving would be furnished by the drives on St. George, where, by reason of topographic conditions, and the greater distance of the "hauling grounds" from the "killing grounds," the travel is more arduous than on the island of St. Paul. The weather at the islands was the sunniest and warmest known there for several seasons. By actual count the deaths resulting from driving on St. George Island was 20 in 10,000, or one-fourth of 1 per cent of all seals driven. As all of these "road skins," as they are called, were accepted by the lessees, absolutely no wastage resulted. Government management not responsible for decrease.—While it is recognized that it is the duty of the Government to perfect in every way the management of the islands from a business standpoint and in its relation to seal life, still I do not find, after two seasons' residence upon the islands themselves, and with a close acquaintance through my investigation with all the details of administration from the time they came into the possession of the Government until the present day, that the methods adopted by the United States for the care and protection of the seals can in any way be justly made responsible for the present diminished state of the herd. Destructive agent now at ivorJc.—While the United States, in compliance with the demands of England, has cheerfully submitted to a reduction of the catch upon the islands where our jurisdictional rights are undisputed and where careful selection of seals and complete control in taking them is possible, killing upon the sea, where it is indiscriminate, deadly in its effect upon the herd, and entirely uncontrollable, has gone on with unabated zeal. For the past three years the average annual killing on the islands has not reached 15,000. During that same period not less than 150,000 skins taken in the sea have been sold in the London markets. When it is remembered that most of the seals taken at sea are females, and many are lost from sinking or escape fatally wounded, this apparent catch of 150,000 represents the actual death of something like 300,000 seals of all sizes and of both sexes. It is not difficult to realize the injurious effect of this upon the seal herd as compared with the damage inflicted by killing on the islands during the same period about 42,000 young immature males, the taking of which in nowise disturbed the breeding grounds. It is naturally the object of the pelagic sealers to increase the efficiency of their schooners by carrying as many small boats or canoes as possible. m 320 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. It is evident, therefore, that the only just estimate of the increase or diminution of the seals at sea is the average number of seals taken per small boat during the same period and in the same localities. Taking these conditions as applied to the Canadian sealing fleet, a comparison of their catch per boat in 1891 with that of 1892 will show that there was no increase in the catch per boat, but, on the contrary, a trifling falling off. That it is not greater still is due to the fact that during the past two years there has been practically no killing upon the islands. This makes good the loss at sea, temporarily diminishes the rate of decrease, and apparently proves to the satisfaction of the Canadian sealers the correctness of the position taken by them that we should abandon all killing of seals upon our own possessions and leave the Pribilof Islands as great seal preserves for their benefit. Despite the pretense of the sealers that there are more seals than ever in the water, despite the self-delusion in which they are now indulging, if indiscriminate slaughter continues and not a seal were killed on land the rookeries of the Pribilof Islands are doomed. SEAL* QUOTA AND COMPENSATION OF NATIVES FOR TAKING SEALS. Seal quota.—In accordance with my instructions, based upon the terms of the modus vivendi, the seal quota was limited to 7,500 and the killing done under the direction of the Government officers. As the killing of seals was permitted solely for the care and maintenance of the natives, and as the proportion of inhabitants on St. Paul to those of St. George is as 2 to 1, an allotment of 5,000 seals was made to the former and 2,500 to the latter island. USTo pups were permitted to be killed. Skins shipped.—An examination of Exhibit B will show that from the island of St. Paul were shipped on September 7 4,996 skins, which included those killed during the previous fall under the terms of the modus of 1891, and that a balance of 791 seals was left to be killed for food during the present fall. An inspection of Exhibit C will show that there were shipped on September 10, from the island of St. George, 2,553 skins, including those killed during the previous fall under the terms of the modus of 1891, and that there remain to be killed for the food of the natives during the present fall 349 seals. These exhibits contain also the detailed information called for in the letter of instructions. Compensation of natives.—The compensation to be paid the natives by the North American Commercial Company for driving, killing, salting, and curing the seal skins and loading them on board the company's steamer was fixed, as per instructions, at 50 cents per skin, and Exhibits D and E are statements of the amount accruing therefrom and of its distribution to the natives on each island. Stagey and rejected skins.-^-ln this connection it is my duty to ask the attention of the Department to the question of stagey and rejected skins. The former are skins of seals killed for food at a time when the hair of the seal after shedding has not grown out sufficiently to render its extraction easy by the furrier, and tends to a greater or less extent to produce an inferior garment. Naturally the company are disinclined to receive such skins at their full value, urging that they can not pay the bonus and sell them at a profit. They further urge that to place such pelts among their prime skins would tend to debase the high character which the Pribilof Islands skins have always maintained in the market. The instructions are not to kill seals during the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 321 stagey season, but it is inevitable that a few are taken each year. During the course of the season there are also unavoidably killed a small number of undersized males, and in the taking of a large number of skins there are always a few, which, though of good size and excellent fur, are more or less injured by the carelessness of the skinners. Just to what extent these injuries render these skins valueless as compared with the prime skins is a matter which the company feel they have a right to decide. There are, therefore, at the end of the killing season a varying number of these two classes of skins, the disposition of which is a matter which concerns the Department and about the disposition of which there has been some variation in the methods obtaining from year to year. In days gone by stagey and rejected skins were often cut into strips and buried. At other times they were given to the natives and became the subject of illicit traffic. Last year these skins were shipped to San Francisco and turned over to the company on payment of the internal-revenue tax only. The first of these methods is open to the objection that it seems a wanton waste of a product which, though not of the finest quality, still possesses much value. The second method is to be thoroughly condemned, in that it develops a tendency among the natives to carelessness or dishonesty and furnishes them a ready means of procuring small supplies of liquor. The third method lays the company liable to the criticism that it is to its interest to make this class of skins as large as possible in order that it may get them at the reduced rates. The stagey and rejected skins of the past season, with the exception of six, which were distributed to the natives by my predecessor before my arrival, were shipped to San Francisco, and all accepted by the North American Commercial Company as prime skins. I would recommend to the Department that a definite decision be made concerning the disposition of stagey and rejected skins. As all skins taken should and do form part of the quota, it is but just to the company that the killing of " stagey" seals be sedulously avoided. It would be cheaper for the Government to contract for fresh meat than to take any great number of stagey skins in the early fall. SUBSISTENCE OF NATIVES. Food supply and prices charged.—In compliance with the instructions of May 2 attention was given to the prices charged the natives for supplies at the company's stores and the quantity and quality of the articles furnished. There was an ample supply furnished of all the necessities of life, both in the matter of food and clothing. There is a noticeable absence of frivolous or unnecessary articles. Clothing is sold cheaper than it can be purchased at retail in San Francisco, and a glance at the accompanying list of food articles, with the selling prices attached, will show that they are sold at rates that are reasonable and that will compare favorably with those of retail establishments on the coast. Black tea per pound.. $0.60 Can condensed milk do .22 White sugar do .10 Kentucky leaf tobacco do .25 Creole tobacco per one-eighth pound.. . 10 Plug cut do .10 Candles per pound.. .20 Assorted sweet crackers do . L2£ Soda crackers do . 10 Pilot bread \ do .05 H. Doc, 92—21 322 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Flour for 50 pounds.. $1.50 Rice per pound._ . 08 Soap do .05 Matches per package.- . 10 Butter do .30 Mustard per bottle.. . 15 Bottle pepper do . .10 Coffee per pound. _ .30 Lard do .15 Beans do .05 Pease do . 10 Washboards each. _ .25 Lamp chimneys do .10 Starch per pound.. . 10 Brooms each.. $0.30 to .35 Codfish line per pound.. . 75 Salmon are famished free under the terms of the lease, and this year dried salmon were brought to the islands. To the general store supplies were added canned fresh beef and canned tomatoes, at the request of the resident agents, as it was believed these articles would contribute to the health of the natives. Obstacles to proper subsistence of natives.—The chief difficulty in the way of properly subsisting the natives is not in the raw commodities furnished,but lies (l)in their general inefficiency as cooks; (2) the habit of quas brewing$ and (3) their improvidence, the latter being due to their aboriginal natures and to their large incomes in past years. Given the same raw commodities, white people would convert them into a variety of palatable, nutritious dishes. Natural food resources.—There is a marked difference between the general thriftiness of the people of St. George and those of St. Paul. On the former island each family has constructed a small storehouse, and on inspecting them I found therein a good supply of dried seal meat incased in the large, cured, air-proof stomachs of the sea lion, arrie eggs preserved in seal oil, and coal-oil cans and other vessels filled with the oil itself for winter use. Such a condition of affairs exists only in part on the island of St. Paul. It is true there is some excuse in the fact that the supply of eggs thereon is scant, and that the sea-lion rookeries are inconsiderable as compared with the more extensive ones on the island of St. George. Curing seal meat.—In view of this the attempt was made on St; Paul to cure the shoulders of the seals by a process similar to that by which pork is treated. The company kindly contributed the use of an old, abandoned boat, which was turned upside down and by a little construction converted into a smokehouse. Colonel Murray took hold of the matter vigorously, with the result that all the seal meat not immediately needed for the consumption of the natives was putihrough the process of smoking. It remains to be seen how readily seal meat will lend itself to this process of curing. The result may be seriously affected by the use of pine wood, the only available fuel. With the skill developed in modern times in curing meats it seems as though some method might be utilized or developed whereby wholesome seal meat in ample quantity and in a variety of forms might be provided for winter consumption. Quas brewing.—As previously stated, a serious obstacle to properly subsisting the natives is their confirmed habit of quas brewing. When it is remembered that every staple of life can be and is employed in the preparation of this disgusting drink, it will be better understood how difficult it is to enforce temperance aud at the same time furnish the necessary food. In the preparation of quas there can fee used flour, UJ CO O X UJ o co ALASKA INDUSTRIES 323 sugar, crackers, rice, molasses, jellies, yeast, condensed milk, and dried fruits. White people would consider it a hardship to be deprived of any one of these commodities. On the islands a spasmodic attempt is made to take away, first one commodity, then another, in the hope of promoting temperance. This results in the innocent suffering for the guilty and in tile production of an intoxicant a little viler for the absence of the prohibited article. I am not at all certain that the condensed milk furnished for the sustenance of their babies is not diverted from its proper object and used in the manufacture of quas. Under present conditions human ingenuity seems unable to devise an effective method of breaking up this habit. These natives possess so few amusements that the use of quas is a diversion and its very illicitness renders its manufacture more enticing. The only remedy seems to be the doubtful and tedious one of elevating them to a degree of intelligence above such things, in which event they would hardly remain contented seal clubbers on a remote island in the center of Bering Sea. In their present financial condition, supplied as they are by the Government with the necessities of life, the adoption of any system of fines or the employment of punitive methods is impracticable. Even supposing they had the money, they would gladly pay any amount rather than forego the use of liquor, and any attempt at control by compulsory labor is ineffective; for under the present system the Government requires all to labor in order that there will be less disastrous results from its enforced charity. FUEL SUPPLY. Coal furnished by the Government.—In addition to the 80 tons of coal supplied under the terms of the lease, the company has furnished at its contract price220 tons more, making a total of 300 tons which has been distributed to the two islands, in the proportion of 200 tons to St. Paul and 100 to St. George. In my judgment this is a satisfactory amount of fuel lor the islands, but it will be fully demonstrated by the experience of the Government officers during the coming winter. Coal furnished by the company.—Besides this fuel for general distribution to the natives the Department has ruled that the "necessaries of life8 referred to in the lease, and which the company has bound itself to furnish to the widows, orphans, and indigents of the island, include "fuel." Upon this question I found that, in the absence of a definite statement in the instructions as to the amounts to be supplied, there existed a difference of opinion between the Government aud the company officers as to the obligation of the latter, and that the whole matter had only been partially affected by this ruling of the Department. This difference of opinion furnishes another illustration of the • embarrassments which arise from the absence of a full and clear interpretation of the lease. To this ruling it was found that the superintendent of the company objected on the ground that when they had furnished the 80 tons of coal they had fulfilled the terms of the lease, as the widows, orphans, and indigents are sharers in the benefit of that 80 tons. The company, however, furnished a certain amount of coal last year, as will be explained later. There arose last year and again this the question, If coal is to be furnished by the company, what is the proper amount? Inquiry developed the fact that on one hand my predecessor claimed he had arranged with the company's superintendent (Mr. Tingle) to give to these widows, orphans, and indigents all the coal actually needed, while, on the other hand, the superintendent was 324 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. quite decided that this was not the c ise, but that the understanding was that they were to have 100 pounds every ten days, and there was a further belief suggested by the records kept by Agent Barnes that 100 pounds every week played some part in the matter. In the absence of anything definite there was made (pending the final action of the Department) a provisional arrangement, which is fully set forth in the following correspondence: St. Paul Island, August 8,1892. Dear Sir: Referring to the coal to be furnished to the widows of the seal islands by the company, I find that in a general way the basis of last year's distribution was 100 pounds per week. While I do not wish to pass judgment upon the sufficiency or insufficiency of this amount, I take the liberty of requesting that the same amount be furnished this year, and that the weekly allowance of coal be changed, so that during the months of December, Jauuary, February, March, April, and May each widow shall receive 125 pounds weekly, and that during the months of June, July, August, September, October, and November a weekly distribution be made of 75 pounds. The following is a list of the families on St. Paul to whom, in our conversations, we have agreed that coal should be sent. This list is, of course, subject to change by death or marriage. It does not include the widows on St. George.l Respectfully, J. Stanley-Brown, Acting Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Mr. George R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Dependent widows and orphans. Fain- Per iiy- sons. 1 2 i 3 4 2 5 6 3 7 4 8 9 5 10 11 12 13 6 14 15 7 16 17 18 8 19 9 20 Names. Balakshin, Matrona. Balakshin, Agafia. Shaposhnikoff, Parascovia. Bellaglazoff, Ellen. Terrakanoff, Mary. Koshivnikoff, Avdotia. Koshivnikoff, Paul (son). Krukoff, Anna. Krukoff, Natalia. Krukoff, John (son). Kozloff, Parascovia. Kozloff, Michael (son). Kozloff, Nicoli (son). Serebrinikoff, Olga (sister). Nederazoff, Agrifina. Nederazoff, Alexia (son). Popoff, Avdotia. Popoff, Evrosena (daughter). Balakshin, Anna (daughter). Peeshinkoff, Vassilisa. Family. 10 11 12 13 14 15 it) 17 Persons. 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 Names. Paras covia Popoff, Afanasia. Shutyagin, Daria. Pvookovashnikoff, Annissa. Rookovishnikoff, Stepan (son). Rookovishnikoff, Anna (daughter). Rookovishnikoff, (daughter). Rezanzoff, Anna. Tetoff, Feslusia. Tetoff, Irene (daughter). Tetoff, Sofia (daughter). Kochergin, George (son).' Terrantova, Anna. Terrantova, Anna (daughter). Krukoff, Maxim (imbecile). Krukoff, Feotesta (wife). Krukoff, John (son). Krukoff, Condrat (son). Volkoff, Ellen. Shutyagin, Uleta. Concerning this question of coal, the following reply was received from the superintendent of the company: North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 10,1892. Dear Sir : Referring to yours of 8th instant, in which you request the North American Commercial Company to distribute coal to the widows of the seal islands on a basis of 100 pounds per week each, I have to say that the distribution shall be made ■as you request,. because the Department, through you, so orders. The company, however, by making the distribution-does not acknowledge their liability or waive their right to present a bill against the United States Government for the full amount of coal so distributed, on the ground that their lease does not require it. 11 had not the St. George list by me at the time of writing this letter, but the arrangement applied to St. George as well, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 325 Yo?.r list1 of dependent persons under the North American Commercial Company's lease is correct, and the ration or supplies stated by you in yours of the 8th instant, as well as all your orders, shall be faithfully carried out by the company, as it is their wish in the fullest manner to comply with all the requirements of the lease. I am, very respectfully, ' J Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. J. Stanley-Brown, Esq., Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. In addition to the coal to be received from the company, instructions were left with the resident agents to see that none of these families suffered for fuel, and that a record be kept of all coal so furnished. There are now upon the two islands some twenty families to whom coal would have to be furnished by the company under the decision of the Department, and at 100 pounds per week between 10 and 50 tons per year would be required, or about 2£ tons per family. A definite decision should be made by the Department covering this case. Regardless of what that decision may be as to the duty of the company, it is clear to me that 2£ tons of coal per annum is not sufficient fuel under existing conditions of scant blubber supply. The Government's allowance of coal is about 5 tons to the family per annum. It seemed but humane, therefore, to leave instructions with the resident agents to furnish to the families of widows whatever coal was needed in excess of the 100 pounds supplied by the company. SUPPLIES TO BE FURNISHED BY THE COMPANY TO WIDOWS, ORPHANS, AND INDIGENTS. Department's present decision insufficient.—There is probably no feature connected with administration of the island that is productive of more embarrassment than that which is furnished by the clause of the lease which states that "the company will also provide the necessaries of life for the widows, orphans, and aged and infirm inhabitants of said island who are unable to provide for themselves." In this case, as in the matter of fuel, a partial ruling of the Department has but slightly simplified matters. Statement of the conditions.—In the instructions it is stated that I The Department understands that this clause includes widows and all other persons, regardless of age, sex, or condition of parentage, who are physically unable to provide for themselves." From this it will be seen that only the recipients are defined in this ruling, and there still remains to be determined what is a proper fulfillment of the lease in the matter of food and clothing. What constitutes the proper care and maintenance of the natives? What is a proper ration of food and clothing? Who shall decide upon this matter"? I could not discover that any business-like method had been devised to acquaint the Government as to the proper fulfillment of the lease on the part of the company, not only that the dependent class of natives shall be cared for, but that the conduct of both the Government and company should be beyond reproach. Some method is certainly needed, for none now exists. The recital of my experience in dealing with this question will show that under existing conditions the problem is a complex and not a simple one, and is further complicated by the ignorance, general thoughtlessness, and dependent character of the natives, an excellent illustration of which is given under the head of " Maintenance and employment of natives." 1 This refers to letter of August 8, 1892, p. 59. 326 ALASKA Industries. Existing arrangement.—On inquiring of the superintendent of the North American Commercial Company as to the custom of the company in regard to the supplies furnished the widows and orphans, he handed me a memorandum, upon which, as a basis, the following letter was prepared and sent to him: St. Paul Island, Augusts, 1892. Dear Sir : The following is my understanding of the purpose of the North American Commercial Company in regard to the food and clothing to be supplied by the company under the terms of their lease to the " widows and orphans and aged and infirm inhabitants of the seal islands who are unable to provide for themselves:" A weekly ration to each adult of 4 pounds of soda crackers; one-half pound of tea; 3 candles (in winter 6); 1 bar soap; 2 pounds sweet crackers; 1 pound sugar; 1 can condensed milk; matches. Each dependent child to receive a weekly half ration of the above, with the exception of matches and candles. In addition to the above all are to receive flour and yeast as required, salt beef as needed, pease, tomatoes, beans, rice when called for, canned fruits and jellies occasionally; also stoves and stovepipe when necessary; the distribution of butter to be left, by your request, to the company's local agent. In the matter of clothing, shoes, stockings, dresses, and other articles of wearing apparel, to be furnished when required, provided they are found to be necessary by the North American Company's local agent. Any complaints for nonfulfillment of the above are to be made to the Treasury agent, who will then confer with the company's agent and adjust the same. The following is a list of persons on St. Paul Island, whom in your judgment properly come under the terms of the lease. Very respectfully, J. Stanley-Brown, Acting Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Jfix. George R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Dependent widows and orphans. Fam- Per Name. Fain- Per Name. ily. son. ! ily. son. 21 1 Balakshin, Matrona. Popoff, Afanasia. o Balakshin, Agafia. 10 22 Shutyagin, Daria. 1 3 Shaposhnikoff, Pariscovia. 23 Rookovishinkoff, Annissa. 4 Bellaglazoff, Ellen. 24 Rooko viskink off, Stepan (son). 2 5 Terrakauoff, Mary. 25 Rookovishinkoff, Anna (daughter) 6 Koshievnikoff, Avdotia. n 26 Rookovishinkoff, Parascovia (dang h- 3 7 Koshievnikoff, Paul (son). ter). 4 8 Krukoff, Anna. 12 27 Rezanzoff, Anna. 9 Krukoff, Natalia. 28 Tetoff, Feclnsia. 5 10 Krukoff, John (son). 29 Tetoff, Irene (daughter). 11 Kosloff, Parascovia. 30 Tetoff, Sofia (daughter). 12 Kosloff, Michael (son). 13 31 Kochergin, Geo. (son). 13 Kosloff, Nicoli. 32 Terrantova, Anna. 6 14 Serebriuikoff, Ogla (sister). 14 33 Terrantova Anna (daughter). 15 Nederazoff, Agrifnia. 34 Krukoff, Maxim. 7 16 Nederazoff, Alexia (son). 35 Krukoff, Feotesta (wife). 17 Popoff, Avdotia. 36 Krukoff, John (son). 18 Popoff, Evrosena (daughter). 15 37 Krukoff, Condrat (son). 8 19 Balakshin, Anna. 16 38 Volkoff, Ellen. 9 20 Poeshinkoff, Vassilisa. 17 ' 39 Shutyagin, Uleta. The following orphans who have homes with other natives are to have a supply of clothing furnished them by the company: No. Nan Residence "with— 40 Bogodanoff, Mary N. Bogodanoff. 41 Meezeekan, Mary V. Sedulus. 42 Yatmanoff, Auzenia A. Galaktionel 43 Zakaroff, Emmanuel J. Glotoff. 44 Zacharoff, Fedosia N. Gromoff. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 327 These five orphans are destitute, and the majority of them have been heretofore supported by the company. They have only changed residence since last year. Maxim is an imbecile who is quite helpless. Ellen Volkoff has a room in her brother's house, and*she wants for nothing except coal. The answer of the superintendent to this communication is embodied in the reply to my letter of August 8,1892, concerning the coal supply, and has already been quoted. On the island of St. George there are but three widows who come under this arrangement. Suggested arrangement.—In conversation with the superintendent of the company upon this subject, I called attention to the fact that it would tend to produce harmony and be advantageous to all parties concerned if some arrangement could be made by which the amount of subsistence stores and general supplies furnished to the widows and dependents by the company each year could be made a matter of record before the Department, and expressed a willingness to cooperate in any possible way in bringing about what seemed a desirable condition of affairs. I pointed out to the superintendent that there were only two ways by which the Government could be informed as to the carrying out of this portion of the lease. First, by the unsupported statement of the Treasury officer, who would have to acquaint himself with the facts by continual investigation and inquiry, a method distressing to a self-respecting man and one which would ultimately become exceedingly offensive to the company's agent and be productive of endless friction and irritation; second, by the simple and effective method of an annual accounting. To this latter the superintendent strongly objected, feeling that the Government had no right to make such a demand, but should trust to the honor of the company, and further that the company could not be expected to make a long itemized account of things furnished the natives, but that it should be sufficient to have the Government officers state that no complaints were made by the natives. Unwisdom of indefinite arrangements.—It is certainly unfortunate that no practical business-like method has been put in operation by which it can be clearly shown at a moment's notice and beyond question that this class of dependents is cared for. It may be that the company is doing all in this direction that can reasonably be expected of it, but in the absence of such a method as that indicated it is not plain that such is the case. This is not intended as criticism, but is here presented (1) as an evidence of the unwisdom of not having a careful definition of the»duties of each party to the lease, and (2) in support of views that I shall advance later as the necessity for a change in the general methods of administration. SANITARY IMPROVEMENTS. m Improvements should be made.—The sanitary improvement of the villages of St. Paul and St. George was a subject of frequent conferences between the superintendent of the company and myself. From our own' observations and from conversations with others of long residence on the island it is evident that while the present sanitary condition of the villages in no wise jeopardizes health, nevertheless certain improvements can be profitably introduced. Natives are chief obstacle to improvement.—It should be borne in mind, however, that the most important factor in the execution of sanitary improvements is the characteristics of the people most interested. The native villagers have absolutely no conception of any danger which *may attend unsanitary conditions j it is therefore extremely difficult to 328 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. secure their cooperation in any contemplated improvements, even though they be of the simplest nature. Two methods necessary.—It is desirable by reason of existing conditions to adopt two different methods for disposing of the excrementi- tious and refuse material of the villages. The village of St. George stands on a hillside which slopes gently down to a bold sea cliff but a few hundred feet distant. The method adopted there is to keep a wheelbarrow alongside of each house into which ashes and all refuse material is dumped, aud this at intervals is carried to the cliff aud emptied into the sea. If the receptacles were covered, ashes plentifully used, and the removal of the load prompt and regular, and if a firm path were made to the cliff by the most direct route, I do not believe that this means of disposing of the village refuse could be improved upon. It involves, however, continual supervision on the part of the resident agent. At the village of St. Paul this method is not so practicable, by reason of its topographic position. Here the most effective method would be the construction of privies with deep pits beneath, which would serve as receptacles not only for excrementitious matter, but for ashes as well. The village is built upon the slope of an old ciuder cone, through the material of which all fluid material quickly seeps away to the sea, so that by the time the pit became filled it would practically be a dry mass of ashes, and another could be dug at some distance away. Again, the success of this plan rests upon the cooperation of the natives, but few of whom are inclined to those habits of neatness requisite to the success of such a plan. With a view of testing just how effectively such an improvement can be carried out, the construction of six such privies under the direction of the Government officer has been arranged for, the company furnishing, free of cost, the material from which they are to be made. Better water supply imperative.—The improvement which the Government should take up at the earliest possible moment and carry through with all possible dispatch is the providing of an adequate water supply. There accompanies this report two photographs of the villages of St. Paul and St. George, showing the relation of the villages to the places where water can be procured; also a photograph showing the method of transporting the water on the backs of women. The village of St. Paul is nearly half a mile away from the only entirely satisfactory wells which it has been found possible to establish on this part of the island. From these two wells through all kinds of weather must be brought all the drinking and cooking water used in the village. This task usually falls upon the immature, growing young girls, and the effect upon their general health of going back and forth through fog- drenched vegetation will readily be appreciated. It is a most fertile source of pulmonary troubles, which is the scourge of this people. It is true that on the east side of the village is a well that at times contains water that is not brackish. This well has recently been put in order, and so long as the water is good it contributes to the general su pply. At the village of St. George the well, although sufficiently far away to make the task of transporting water somewhat burdensome, still it does not entail any hardship nor work injury to health. From the photograph of St. George it will also be seen that back of the village there is quite an extensive lake on ground much higher than that upon which the houses rest. While this water would not be fit for drinking purposes unless boiled and filtered, its utilization would SCAL£. ,*£?*•! /«.., .-rr*. S2- .V "WW* ..,.,., ^- . ■ , - v—»_ ,i. ... .,,, ' i - ^vji. —"it-".. —. r«^".~ »_»s * *"»v-~!/JST, «//^< '-^" -+*T ' '-WsC -Xj- .* -n ' c. -i'*K *r-^r— i ,f*' ~* -» J.V *»VvA » *»*»/,,: «c«nMic-jaKC««*!»f*fe».»i ffesi *~*&ZL 5-■5^^..- ~"RIT: ?WtfB( SBx/^7 52 a CD z I to < z UJ ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 329 materially contribute to the cleanliness and health of the villagers, for at present the washing is carried to this lake shore and there, upon their knees'on the damp sodden turf, the washing is done by the women. The washing of St. Paul is performed at a little lake lying below the village, but at only a short distance from it. Recommendations.—Maps are presented with this report, carefully drawn to a scale, from which it will be seen that if at the wells which supply St. Paul a windmill was erected and the water pumped into a small reservoir on the hillside above and a line of pipe laid from this small reservoir to a much larger one in the village the water would by gravity fill this larger receptacle. There would not only thus be a constant supply of wholesome drinking water, but it would serve as a storage place to tide over, what seems an anomalous condition, a dry season on the Pribilof Islands. It should be borne in mind that these islands are volcanic and composed of highly vesicular rock through which the water quickly seeps away, and as during* the season when the surface is frozen the water does not penetrate to the regions below, the supply already there passes off, and the question of procuring a sufficient amount of water is at times almost a serious one. This same method could be employed with the well at St. George, while a more abundant supply for washing purposes could be furnished by a pipe from the higher lake to a reservoir at the village. Company will cooperate.—The company has expressed its willingness to supply all the material necessary at a reasonable rate, while they will transport it from San Francisco to the islands free of cost. The Government should not fail to take up the active prosecution of this work during the coming summer after the killing season is over. As iron pipe is rapidly destroyed at the islands by the ingredients of the water, the kind of pipe to be used is an important consideration. Persistent supervision essential.—The most important feature of a better sanitary condition is that the resident agents from year to year shall be persistent and diligent in their efforts along certain well- defined lines of improvement, and it is earnestly urged that the attention of the agents who may go to the islands next year be called to this matter. MAINTENANCE AND EMPLOYMENT OF NATIVES. Existing conditions affecting the problem.—During the period of small killing upon the islands the proper maintenance and employment of the natives is a somewhat puzzling problem, and is complicated (1) by the fact that a few of the natives have a sufficient sum of money to tide them over for several years, while (2) the people generally have not reached the point of intellectual advancement where they can appreciate the meaning of the term independence. They willingly receive charity, and it is to be feared that the effect of their maintenance by the Government will be disastrous to their already weak characters. It was difficult to key them up to the point of working for what they received at the hands of the Government. After repeated efforts to make clear to them that the Government intended that they should perform service for every item received, that it was a time of hardship and the utmost frugality must be employed, one man who had $2,000 to his credit on the books of the company asked for a Government order for provisions, stating that he had understood that the Government was giving away goods and that he wanted his share. Another came with the request that he be furnished with an accordion, 330 ALASKA INDUSTRIES': while a perfect mania raged among the women to secure orders for shawls, regardless of whether they already had them or not. Again, the few natives who have means, incapable as they are of appreciating the satisfaction of independence, feel that in some way this maintenance on the part of the Government of their less provident neighbors is a wrong to them, and that their very thriftiness has barred them from certain benefits that they might have been able to have secured from the Government had they been less prudent. In short, they seem to consider that a native dependent upon the Government, even though work is devised in order that he may be self-supporting, is in a more- enviable position than is he who has money to his credit. Natives paid for all labor done.—A. careful record is now kept upon the island of all work done by the natives, and they are paid for it at about the same rate of compensation they receive from the company for manual labor. The amount so earned is placed to their credit on the books of the Government. ISTo actual money is paid them, but, as instructed, orders are given them upon the company's store, the amount of which is charged on the other side of their account. These orders, as directed by the Department, should accompany the accounts of the company, while the stubs of the same will be transmitted to the Department with the reports of the resident agents. So long as a native has money to his credit, either from previous earnings from the annual killing or the taking of foxes, he is permitted to spend only so much per week, and no orders are given him until his own resources are exhausted. Native funds.—The items of the money ($9,885.64) which the natives of St. Paul had to their credit on the books of the North American Commercial Company on August 10, 1892, will be found in the census report of that island (Exhibit G). That on St. George will be found set forth in detail in Exhibit F. Recommendation.—While the present system of caring for the dependent native is entirely justified by the emergency which suddenly arose, and by the further fact that its continuance is expected to be of short duration, nevertheless, should it be found that the present condition of affairs is to continue indefinitely, an attempt should be made to devise a plan contemplating a regular ration of food and clothing, for the objection can be urged to the present method that in the hands of a •careless or improperly disposed Government agent it could be carried out in a way that would be unjust to some and prove disastrous to the morality of the village. Constant employment essential.—Constant employment is one of the most important factors in maintaining a wholesome condition of affairs upon the islands. It is during the winter season of idleness that quas brewing and general misconduct become most flagraut. This is the consensus of opinion of all who are familiar with life on the islands. Character of work furnished.—The question of furnishing employment to the natives was, as required in my instructions, a subject of conference between the superintendent of the company and myself. It was mutually agreed that the most effective method of guarding the rookeries was from watchhouses upon the shores; that the natives, with proper supervision and discipline, could be advantageously employed for this purpose, and that the construction of a better water supply, roads to rookeries, and the general improvement of the village would give the necessary employment to the natives when not engaged in their regular work of seal killing. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 331 Compensation to watchmen.—Previously all watchmen were supplied with provisions by the company gratuitously, but as there seemed to be no good reason why the Government should not assume all liability for the protection of its property, this was changed and watchmen now receive a regular per diem compensation. The amount earned is placed to their credit on the books of the Government, and they are at liberty to purchase on orders whatever supplies they may select while employed upon guard duty. The detail of men for this service is made in regular rotation, and none are exempted except by reason of age or infirmity. TRANSLATION .OP THE RUSSIAN RITUAL. It was not found possible to secure on the island a copy of the Eussian ritual, and this duty was therefore deferred until I should arrive at San Francisco, but by the exigencies of the summer, as previously noted, it became necessary to return by way of Victoria. An effort, however, has been made through Agent W. H. Williams, who was in San Francisco, to procure a copy of the church service for translation. RETURN OF CHURCH FUNDS TO NATIVES. Amount of the funds.—In accordance with the instructions of May 2, the funds placed in the hands of the North American Commercial Company by the priest of the Greek Church for transmission to the consistory at San Francisco was counted in the presence of the Government officer and the company official, and the amount was found to be $3,344.10. Method of distribution.—On June 26 a meeting of the priest and the chief men of the village was called, and they were informed that in view of the needy condition of the natives the Department deemed it wiser that these funds should be redistributed to them. The natives agreed that as the funds were to be distributed all those present in the village should be partakers in the benefits of it. The money was accordingly divided among the people as follows: $200 to Rev. Paul Shaisnikoff, and $16.12 to each of the 195 natives of the village, the odd 70 cents being divided among 7 orphans, giving them $16.22 instead of $16.12 each,, and the Department was informed of this fact on July 2. CONSISTORY'S ATTEMPT TO RECOVER THE FUNDS. Statement of the case.—Since my return I have ascertained that an attempt is being made on the part of the consistory at San Francisco to secure the return of this money. Concerning this point and the general question of the relation of the Greek Church to and its influence exerted there upon the natives of the island, I beg leave to make the following statement: While it must be admitted that the fund distributed among the natives of St. Paul Island was money which they had previously voluntarily contributed to the church, and that it may be that the action of the Department appears arbitrary aud unwarranted by reason of existing treaty relations, nevertheless it was morally right, and it should be remembered that it was done solely in the interest of the natives. Not one dollar of this fund was diverted but was distributed to and accepted by the natives- every penny of it was employed in their behalf, as is shown by the official records of the island, and the 332 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Government exercised only the same supervision that it would over any of our dependent Indian tribes should a similar emergency arise. I It was simply an attempt on the part of the Department to stand between the ignorant, credulous natives and what was believed to be an unjustifiable action on the part of their church officials. Exact status of the fund unknown.—It should be further remembered, in considering the question of its restoration, that the exact status of this money is not known. It is supposed that it is to go the way of some $16,000 or $18,000 that have been loaned by this church congregation to the consistory at San Francisco, and upon which the latter promised to pay interest, but not a dollar of which has yet been received by the natives, while for the principal of the loan not even an accounting has been made. It formed part of a scandal affecting the former bishop, Vladimir, who was removed under circumstances which left doubt in the minds of the public as to his honesty and general uprightness of character. The uncertainty as to the fate of this loan was a subject of comment by the natives upon the islands, and did they possess the requisite knowledge of American affairs, they would institute suit for such an accounting. No other native people in that region are so sedulously looked after as these Pribilof Islanders in the matter of contributions to the church, but proper attention is not paid by the consistory of San Francisco to their material or real moral welfare; and now that they have become dependents on the Government, by reason of the depleted condition of the rookeries, it would seem to be the duty of the Government to devise some means to protect them against the organization which, claiming spiritual control over them, exercises that control to enrich itself. The consistory knows that this money was devoted to the welfare of the needy natives, and the fact that it still demands it for its own uses is clearest evidence that it is indifferent to the interests of the natives or to their condition. No pretense is made by the consistory that the natives have been deprived of any benefits, but the soreness arises from the fact that it is the loser. If the consistory displays such activity in securing what it claims as its own, it would seem to be almost a duty on the part of the Government to assure itself that the future of the money previously referred to as belonging to its wards, the ignorant, timid natives of those two little isolated islands, is not jeopardized, especially when the church official to whom it was intrusted has apparently been found derelict by his superiors. Indifference of consistory to natives1 needs.—The bishop who is now so solicitous concerning the recovery of this money for the church failed utterly in all matters of courtesy when calling at the island last summer. His coming was welcomed by the Government officials, they believing that it would furnish them an opportunity for conference looking to the welfare of the natives, but he made no effort to acquaint himself from reliable sources with the condition of the natives, nor manifested the slightest concern as to their progress or material welfare, while he did not even call at the village of St. George, from which no contribution could be expected. That the natives do not feel especially aggrieved by the return of the money is indicated by the fact that they to an individual accepted it, realizing as they did their needy condition. Government's action no interference with religious liberty.—This action of the Government can not justly be construed as interference with the religious liberty of the people, but must be looked at in the light of an attempt merely to protect its wards. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 333 THE GREEK CHURCH ON THE ISLANDS. The church regulations promote immorality.—The rules of the Greek Church permit marriage only when the contracting parties are beyond the fourth degree of consanguinity. Foster and church relationships are also deemed a bar to matrimony. No woman can marry more than three times, with the result that serious injury is inflicted on the morality of the youth of the village by these widows. Not only do such rules exist, but the question of relationship is decided often by the memory of a church elder, and in case of any uncertainty marriage is withheld. Further than this, the interpretation of the church rules rests with a priest whose mental status is indicated by the fact that when called upon last summer to marry a couple he declined, in an official communication, to do so because the contracting parties each had cousins (not related by blood to each other) who had married. The result of this is that the natural affections have their way, and among a people devoid of chastity seduction is not looked upon as a crime, and illegitimacy, with all its attendant evils, is not only frequent, but bears no stigma. Their spiritual adviser morally incompetent.—The spiritual welfare of the natives of St. Paul is presided over now by a priest whose moral sense is so dwarfed by church regulations and his own personal habits that when called upon to marry a couple who were living together as man and wife, with offspring as a result, declined to do so on the ground that relationship of the fourth degree existed. When asked which he preferred to do, to follow the dictates of the church or stand on the side of good morality by removing the scandal, he chose the former. The result.—These are not abnormal cases, but of frequent occurrence, and just how long the Government is justified in permitting this state of affairs to continue is a serious question. Its effect upon such an isolated people, who from earliest aboriginal times have been notoriously licentious, is most disastrous. Its result is shown in the instance of a couple who were found living in a state of fornication and were called upon to marry. They frankly stated they preferred the present arrangement. In the face of the indifference of the church and such a total lack of moral consciousness on the part of many of the natives, the Government officials find themselves powerless. The condition of affairs existing on the Pribilof Islands to-day in respect to immorality is a disgrace to the Government of the United States, and the church officials on the island stand squarely in the way of repeated attempts on the part of Government officials during the last three years to remedy the evils. For over twenty years the Government has maintained an English school upon the islands, and yet not ten natives on both of them can make themselves even fairly well understood in English, nor has any appreciable advance been made in the direction of American citizenship. While outwardly the natives appear civilized, they are still so densely ignorant that, despite their association with Americans for twenty-five years, and the continuous presence of a physician on the islands during that time, they still often refuse medicine, continue to utie up" a pain by a constricting cord, and permit no accouchment without the presence of the village midwife—a totally blind old woman. Surely the will of the* Government should be freely exerted for the good of these people, and an imperative demand for an improvement in morals can not justly be construed as an interference with religious liberty, 334 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Recommendations.—It would seem to be a favorable opportunity to indicate to the proper Eussian officials that the existing state of affairs is offensive to our Government; that there must be a radical improvement, and that, so far as the church can, it will be expected to assist in bringing it about. If possible, some arrangement looking to an improvement should be made, which should take into account the following points: (1) There should be no more removal of money from the islands save with the consent of the United States Government, and through the revenue department. (2) There should be a distinct understanding that blood relationship as a bar to matrimony should not extend beyond the first or second degree. (3) Foster and church relationships should not be considered an impediment to marriage. fvt: (4) That a woman may marry as many times as she becomes a widow. (5) That a civil marriage ceremony, performed by the resident Government agent, be provided for. (6) That the church service be conducted in English, or that at least one service each Sunday be in English. (7) That hereafter only English-speaking priests be permitted upon the islands. SCHOOLS. An illustration of what can be done.—That it is not impossible to establish schools that will be entirely successful not only in teaching these people to speak, to read, and to write the English language, but to train them in more upright and useful methods of domestic life, is shown by the history of the Lee school at Unalaska, presided over by Mr. and Mrs. Tuck. At this school have been gathered children from all parts of the Aleutian chain and some from the islands of St. Paul and St. George, whose intellectual advancement seemed to be hopeless. Before two years had passed these children were able to make themselves well understood in English, while their improvement in manner and character was simply astonishing. This I know from personal observation. The success of the Lee school is due to the personal equation of the individuals presiding over it and to the fact that the children are removed from their native home influences. While it is recognized that the education of the natives should not be of a character likely to result merely in discontent with their lot, still much can be done in the way of practical manual training, in teaching cooking, the proper care of their houses, and the preservation of their health without fear of its being overtaken by the first-named danger. Everyone familiar with the Pribilof Islands knows that the career of the English school there has been a total failure. Recommendations.—The settlement of this vexed school question should be vigorously taken up by the Government. 3>. is believed by me that the characteristics of these islanders, due in considerable measure to their insular life, will be advantageously modified if some arrangement can be made by which they can secure the benefits of such a school as that of Unalaska. If the girls of the islands can be placed there between the ages of 9 or 10 and 15 or 16, and the boys from 1<» to 13, we would very soon have growing up a body of English speaking young natives who, with awakened minds, increased skill, and a more wholesome idea of life and its responsibilities, would make a far better and more useful class than now exist upon the islands, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 335 If such a scheme can not be carried out, then an effort should be made at once to establish similar schools on the islands, the basis of which should be the entire care and maintenance of the children'in order that they may secure the good effects of isolation from their undesirable home surroundings. FOX KILLING. Present arrangement tentative.—The Department is already fully aware that the taking of fox skins on the part of the natives makes a substantial contribution to their annual income, and in the instructions of last season permission was given them to take foxes during this winter. Several conferences were held with the natives with a view to arranging such a modification of the practices heretofore obtaining as would enable all the villagers to secure an equal proportion of what may be fairly considered common property. It was suggested to them that all money obtained from the fox skins should be pooled and equally divided among the families after each man who had actually taken the foxes should have deducted a small bonus therefor. To this communal proposition, however, they all so promptly and so strongly objected that the old method was adhered to, except in one particular. As the natives are receiving their maintenance largely from the Government, it was insisted that all money due them by the company for taking fox skins should not be paid in cash, but should be placed to their credit on-their pass books, thus insuring its more prudent expenditure. The relation of the company to the question of fox skins is fully set forth in the following communication to the superintendent of the company: St. Paul Island, August 11, 1892. Dear Sir : I have to inform you that in accordance with the instructions from the Department under date of May 2, 1892, the natives of St. Paul and St. George islands are permitted, under direction of the Government officers in charge, to take fox skins during the coming winter. I have informed the resident agents that the "foxing season" will extend from November 15 to January 20. My understanding of the arrangement made between us in our conference is: (1) That the company will, upon the request of the Government officers in charge, loan such traps to the natives as may be necessary in trapping, a native borrowing traps being required to pay for all he does not return in good order; (2) that all skins taken are to be turned over to the company after having been duly credited both by the Government officer and the local agent of the company, to the native bringing them in; (3) that the sum of $2 per skin for all skins taken is to be advanced by the company, pending the action of the Department; and (4) that all sums due the natives at the end of the foxing season is to be placed to their credit on their pass books, no cash being paid them at any time for the skins brought in. Very respectfully, J. Stanley-Brown, Acting Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Mr. George R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. GUARDING THE ROOKERIES. The method used.—After the experience of two seasons, I am convinced that the only effective method of guarding the rookeries from raids is from the shore and not from the sea. While but few such assaults have been made in years gone by, and their effect upon rookery life has been trivial, coming as it does at a season when the rookeries are entirely disorganized, many of the seals absent from the island, and the weather so inclement as to make landing difficult and dangerous, nevertheless it is desirable to discourage such attacks by summarily dealing with 336 ALASKA. INDUSTRIES. the thieves. The present method of protecting the rookeries, and the proper one, is by establishing watchhouses at localities not so close to the rookeries as to prove an annoyance to the seals, but near enough thereto to command a view of them and of the adjacent ocean. Further perfection of the method recommended.—Each one of these watchhouses should be connected by telephone with the Government house at the village. An important factor in the proper supervision of this watching is the construction of roads and the furnishing of conveyances by means of which the resident agent can pass rapidly from wratchhouse to watchhouse on a daily inspection, or in time of emergency. It should be borne in mind that the distances to be traveled are often great and over areas which, by reason of the volcanic character of the island and the dense vegetation, make walking difficult, arduous, and extremely slow. The most distant rookery on St. Paul is Northeast Point, 12 miles away, and the watchhouse there is connected with the village by telephone. This telephonic communication should be extended to Polivena, a rookery midway between Northeast Point and the village, and with Zapadnie, a rookery 6 miles to the westward. At Polivena and Zapadnie watchhouses have been erected this year, and a guard is kept there day and night. There has always been one at Zapadnie, but a new one was erected this year on a more desirable site. On St. George, Zapadnie rookery is some 5 or 6 miles from the village*. Here a watch has always been kept, and this year the watch- house has been improved, and the company have turned over to the United States, free of cost, all the paraphernalia in their possession for the construction of a telephone line connecting Zapadnie with the village. Great East rookery lies to the eastward of the village about 3 miles. Here a watchhouse has been built and a guard stationed. Telephonic communication should connect this post with the village. Captain Lavender, the resident agent at St. George, has begun the construction of a narrow road from the village to Great East rookery. There is between the village and Zapadnie a narrow path constructed by the Alaska Commercial Company and used for the transportation of skins on the backs of donkeys from the killing grounds there to the village. This should be converted into a road suitable for vehicles and connected with Starry Arteel rookery. Natives as watchmen.—The natives on the islands make excellent watchmen, and with a little training and proper supervision on the part of the resident agents, and the development of a little military spirit, they would not only be entirely satisfactory, but it would furnish them occupation and entertainment. As stated before, the vital point in the successful employment of these natives as watchmen is the construction of roads and the furnishing of conveyances" by means of which the resident agents will be enabled to maintain a continual supervision. The employment of white soldiers has been suggested, but I can not too strongly object to placing marines upon the islands. This is a matter which should be vigorously taken up by the Government and carried to a successful termination. The Eevised Statutes (section 1959) places the protection of the islands in the hands of the Secretary of War. This should be amended to read | Secretary of Treasury." RAIDS. The details of two raids upon the islands in the fall of 1892 are given in Major Williams's report. These raids were ma4e by the vessels, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 337 Challenge and Borealis, a>nd their history shows how difficult it is to successfully secure seals by this kind of thievery. REVENUE CUTTERS. Period, of patrolling.—I have frequently expressed an opinion verbally as to the undesirability of keeping revenue vessels in these northern waters during the month of November, and I now earnestly protest against the infliction of what seems to be unnecessary hardship upon these officers of the Government. By reason of the weather at this season it is extremely difficult for the cutters to accomplish much in the matter of policing the sea. The continuous rough water prohibits the taking of seals by pelagic hunters, and, as previously stated, it is possible by means of land parties to effectively and entirely protect the rookeries from raids. Such raids have been infrequent; the conditions of coast and weather make them ineffective, and they have played but an insignificant part in the destruction of the rookeries. Value of their services.—I would beg leave also to record here the high regard in which I hold the officers of the revenue service for the unsurpassed industry and zealous vigilance exercised by them during the past summer. Not only have they performed the regular duties of their office with the utmost fidelity and efficiency, but their researches concerning aquatic seal life have made a most substantial contribution to natural history, and have been of especial value to those representatives of the Government who are engaged in the consideration of the international questions now pending. The better equipment of this service in the matter of vessels is imperatively demanded, not only by the growing interests of the entire west coast, but by the exceedingly hazardous duties they are called upon to perform at all seasons of the year. CENSUS AND HEALTH OF THE NATIVES. Census.—There is appended to this report (exhibits G and H) a census of the natives of St. Paul and St. George, from which it will be seen that there has been a marked mortality among the inhabitants of the former, while on the latter the population has remained stationary. The condition on St. George may be a hopeful sign of a general improvement in health, or it may be merely temporary. Health and causes affecting it.—The physical weakness of this people is apparent to everyone who visits the islands. Scrofulous and pulmonary disorders are common, and the natives' methods of life promote both these classes of diseases. They seem to be totally ignorant of the simplest laws of health. They are inferior cooks, and irregularity as to the time of taking their meals is the rule. The humidity of the climate is against them. Physical exertion causes profuse perspiration, while the temperature is so cold that cessation from labor is accompanied by chilling. Against this the natives do not seem to guard by proper dressing. Tea and tobacco are used to excess by both men and women. Quas brewing plays its part in injuring health. Attention has already been called to the fact that the immature, developing young girls are required to carry water through the wet grass for a distance of half a mile. They also, with the older women, go back and forth to the killing grounds, regardless of weather, for the purpose of transporting to their homes, in leather bags slung over their backs, the seal meat and blubber. Again, their little wooden houses are heated in winter to such a temperature that they lay aside their outer clothing H, Doc, 92- ■22 338 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. and then often step from the heated room into the chilly air without taking the precaution to properly iirotect themselves against the cold. A habit of sleeping on the floor still persists, in the face of all attempts to correct it; and though the temperature is satisfactory on first lying- down, the fire goes out before morning and the sleeper is subjected to the risks incident to the lowered temperature and the drafts which circulate across the floor, to say nothing of the disastrous effects of breathing this lower strata of contaminated air. The mortality among the infants is very great. This is due to inherited lack of vitality, the inability of the mothers to nurse them, and the employment of condensed milk in lieu of maternal care. Introduction of reindeer.—It is believed the introduction of reindeer upon these islands would be advantageous to the health of the community, in that it would furnish them with another article of diet, especially during the portion of the year in which no seals were killed.. A number of reindeer were brought to Unalaska by Captain Healy, of the United States revenue steamer Bear last year, and experience has shown that during the past twelve months they have thrived. The conditions on St. Paul and St. George are favorable to their propagation. Experience will determine what effect their presence would have upon the seals. It is not believed that it would be injurious. BRITISH AGENTS. During the summer Mr. J. M. Macoun, accompanied by his photographer, Mr. Maynard, wras present upon the island, and every effort was made on the part of the Government and company officers to assist them in the prosecution of their work. IN GENERAL. Appointment of agents.—1 beg leave to call the attention of the Department to a defect in the present method of appointing agents to the seal islands. It is of prime importance in carrying out any Government policy in regard to these valuable possessions that there be as little change of individuals from year to year as is possible. It is recognized that the continuance of any one individual is undesirable, but it is urged as an effective arrangement that in the appropriation bills providing for the appointment of officers a clause be inserted requiring that two agents shall be selected from each of the dominant political parties, each pair serving alternate years. There would thus be secured continuity of administration, each officer would act as a check upon the other, and there would be freedom from incompetency which might arise from long retention of office. It should be remembered that these positions are of no small degree of responsibility, and calf for men of high character, of good intelligence, possessing a keen sense of justice, and bodily qualified to meet the severe physical exertion frequently demanded by the proper administration of their office. ' Company's superintendent concurs in certain recommendations.—As requested in my instructions, and as previously indicated, I availed myself of the familiarity of the superintendent of the North American Commercial Company with the questions of the sanitary improvement of the islands and the furnishing of employment to the natives, and he concurs in the recommendations made herein. (See Exhibit I.) Adoption of two orphans.—Upon application of Mrs. Earnest A. Cox, the wife of the secretary ef the North American Commercial Company, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 339 permission was granted to take two of the dependent orphans, Ellen Merculoff and Catherin Shutyagin, to San Francisco to become members of her household, where they will receive far better care and attention than they could get at the islands. Relations with the North American Commercial Company.—My personal relations with the officers of the North American Commercial Company were cordial and pleasant, and no effort was spared to contribute to my personal comfort. Every courtesy was extended to me in the furtherance of my investigations. In our official relations, matters concerning which there was not unanimity of opinion, were discussed freely and provisional conclusions reached, subject to the final action of the Department. It is needless for me to state that what I may have had to say concerning the business management of the islands is not made from the standpoint of an unfriendly critic, but in 1 spirit of helpfulness, and in the hope that out of it may come advantage to all parties concerned. Present divided responsibility.—The islands are suffering at present from the drawbacks incident to a divided responsibility. I can not but deem it unfortunate for all parties concerned that the lease should have been so drawn as to require the lessees to maintain a physician and a teacher upon the islands, and to provide food, clothing, and fuel for the widows, orphans, and indigents. These people are wards of the Government, and it would seem to have been the duty of the latter to look after these matters itself. It is believed that it would be wiser, if it can be properly done, to so modify the lease that the Government shall assume all direct responsibility and liability for the material welfare of the people of the islands, the lessees making pecuniary compensation for being absolved from this obligation. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS. The recommendations embodied in the foregoing report are as follows: (1) That Congress be urged to require from the Fish Commission an annual report of the condition of the rookeries, utilizing for that purpose the charts, photographs, and other data already collected by the Treasury Department. (2) That regulations concerning the management of the islands be formulated, and that a clear and full interpretation be made of the obligations of each party to the lease. (3) That a definite decision be made as to the annual disposition of stagey and rejected skins. (4) That a definite decision be reached as to the amount of coal to be furnished weekly by the company to the widows, orphans, and indigents. (5) That some plan be devised by which it shall be shown what amount of subsistence stores and supplies are given the dependent natives by the company. (6) That the improvement of the water supply of the villages of St. Paul and St. George be at once taken up in accordance with plans submitted. (7) Should it appear that- the present condition of small annual killings on the islands is to continue for any length of time, that a regular ration of food and clothing be served out to the natives. (8) That the guarding of the rookeries by the natives from the land be continued and the present methods improved upon. (9) That employment be given the natives by developing a thorough 340 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. system of guard duty, by the construction of roads and telephone lines, by increasing the water supply, and by the general improvement of the villages. (10) That an effort be made to carry out the suggestions made relating to the moral and spiritual improvement of the natives. (11) That the school system be radically changed in accordance with the suggestions made. (12) That improvements in the guarding of the rookeries be made through the construction of watchhouses, roads, and telephone lines, and through the training of the natives. (13) That section 1959 of the Eevised Statutes be amended, the word |Treasury" being substituted for the word " War," so that the protection of the islands shall rest with the Secretary of the Treasury and not with the Secretary of War. (14) That reindeer be introduced upon the islands, with a view to aiding in furnishing a fresh meat supply. (15) That Congress be asked to require that two officers from each of the dominant parties be selected to serve alternate years upon the islands, in order that continuity of policy and general good manage"- ment may be secured. (16) That, if it can properly be done, the lease of the North American Commercial Company be so modified as to transfer the providing of school teachers and resident physicians, and the maintaining of the widows, orphans, and indigents, to the Government, the company to make a pecuniary compensation for being absolved from this obligation. REPORTS OF ASSISTANT AGENTS. There is inclosed herewith, and attention is respectfully asked to the recommendations contained in, the reports of Assistant Treasury Agents Murray and Lavender. Very respectfully, Joseph Stanley-Brown, Acting Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Hon. Charles .Foster, Secretary of the Treasury. List of exhibits. Exhibit A. Letter of instructions, one inclosure. B. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island. C. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island. D. Statement of division of proceeds of natives' earnings on St. Paul Island. E. Statement of division of proceeds of natives' earnings on St. George Island. F. Statement of native funds to their credit on the books of the North American Commercial Company on August 10, 1892, on St. George Island. G. Census of St. Paul Island, including also statement of native funds to the credit of the natives on St. Paul Island on the books of the North American Commercial Company on June 30, 1892. H. Census of St. George Island. I. Letter of December 1, from the superintendent of the North American Commercial Company to acting United States Treasury agent in charge seal islands. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 341 Exhibit A. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, May 10, 1892. Sir: You are directed to proceed to San Francisco and take passage on the steamer St. Paul, which leaves that citjr for Unalaska on* the 20th instant. Instructions have been given to the revenue steamer Bush to meet you at the place named to enable you to secure certain information for the use of the Department of State, instructions concerning which will be handed to you by Hon. John W. Foster. It is expected that you will reach the Pribilof Islands on or before the 10th proximo, when Special Agent W. H. Williams will proceed on the steamer Bush to Unalaska and Port Townsend. Upon the departure of Major Williams from the seal islands, you will assume the duties of agent in charge, being guided by the instructions of the 2d instant addressed to Agent Williams, copy of which is inclosed. Messrs. Barnes and Nettleton have been directed to return by the first conveyance. It is understood that a vessel of the North American Commercial Company will leave the islands for San Francisco on or about the 18th proximo, and while it is desirable that the Government vessels should be used by the agents in their transportation, if suitable accommodations are not available on the revenue steamer Bush, the gentlemen named and those of their families who may be with them are authorized to return upon tbe vessel of the North American Commercial Company. You are directed to make the necessary arrangements in that event. Respectfully, yours, O. L. Spaulding, Assistant Secretary. J. Stanley-Brown, Special Agent Treasury Department, Washington, D. C. May 2, 1892. Sir: As already advised by telegram, you will proceed at once to the seal islands as "Treasury agent in charge," taking passage for that purpose either on the LT. S. revenue steamer Bear, which leaves Port Townsend on or about May 7, or the Alaska Commercial Company's steamer Bertha, which leaves San Francisco about the same date. Upon your arrival at the islands you will assume charge of the interests and property of the Government, and as its representative you will see to it that the authority with which you are invested is respected in all quarters. It is not only desirable this season that the Department should have upon the islands at an early day a representative who is thoroughly familiar with the general condition of affairs concerning them, but, as you will see from the communication from Gen. J. W. Foster that will reach you with this, you can be of material service in collecting information of importance in the preparation of the arbitration case now pending. The State Department desires to receive this information at an early date, and in order to accomplish this the Bear will be directed to transport you between the two islands, to enable you to secure the data, and the Bush will be instructed to convey you in the early part of June from the islands to Port Townsend, where you will telegraph your arrival, mail the data collected, and resume your duties on the coast pending further instructions. On or about May 20 Mr. J. Stanley-Brown will leave San Francisco on the steamer St. Paul for Unalaska and the Pribilof islands. Upon your leaving the islands Mr. Stanley-Brown will assume the duties of agent in charge, and be guided by these instructions, which you will leave with him, together with letterpress copies of all information procured for the use of the State Department. ASSISTANT agents. It is probable that Assistant Agents Joseph Murray and A. W. Lavender will accompany you on the Bear, but if not they will report to you both for service and residence on the islands during the coming year. You will make such assignment of them to the respective islands as in your judgment seems best. Messrs. Barnes and Nettleton, now upon the islands, will continue to render service during the remainder of their stay, but have permission to return to the States as soon as relieved by Murray and Lavender. While permission is granted to avail themselves of the first conveyance, preference should be given, all things being equal, to a Government vessel, and instructions will probably be given to the Bush to bring them to Port Townsend in June. At no time must the islands be left without a resident agent. 342 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. MODUS VIVENDI. You will find inclosed a copy of the modus vivendi between the United States and Great Britain, which, you will see, goes into force May 1, 1892, and continues while the arbitration is pending, unless otherwise provided for after October 31,1893. FOREIGN AGENTS. You will observe that the modus (Art, IV) permits the landing on the islands of British agents. In accordance with the international agreement, you will permit such duly accredited persons to land for the purpose indicated in the modus. Your attention is called to the unfortunate representations made to Lord Salisbury last year by the British commissioners. Their statements concerning the alleged violation of the modus in the matter of seal killing were based upon their misinterpretation of the terms of the modus and their misunderstanding of the facts. Especial effort should be made, therefore, to present with exceeding clearness any fact that you may deem necessary or proper to communicate to any British official visit- v v *■' JL L V ing either island. All affidavits obtained by such agents from the natives or other persons on the islands must be taken in the presence of a Government officer, and the foreign agents must conform to such rules of conduct concerning the rookeries as are required of citizens of the United States. SEAL QUOTA. It is essential to the carrying out of the modus that all seals taken for their skins be killed under the direction of the Government agent. No quota has therefore been assigned the North American Commercial Company. As the limit to be killed for all purposes during the season of 1892 is fixed by international agreement at 7,500, you will so adjust the killing as to provide for a fresh-meat supply for the natives throughout the season. As under the terms of the lease all skins taken will ultimately be turned over to the North American Commercial Company, you will confer with the agent of the lessees as to the kind of skins desired and request his cooperation in selecting them. The number of seals to be killed on each island will be in about the proportion of former years, unless, in your judgment, there should be made some modification of the ratio. KILLING SEASON. The killing season will begin as soon after your arrival as in your judgment the rookeries are in proper condition for driving, and the period for taking seals is left entirely to your discretion, with the exception that no seals are to be taken during the stagey season, which embraces the time between August 10 and September 30. DRIVING OF SEALS. As the perpetuation of seal life has always been and is now the paramount concern of the Government, and is also of the greatest interest to all persons connected with the seal industry, you will take especial care that no methods are permitted in the driving, killing, or general handling of the seals which in your opinion would directly or remotely be injurious to them, or in any way jeopardize, even in the slightest degree, the increase of the seal herd. KILLING OF PUPS. It was the custom in former years to permit the killing in the fall of a certain number of young seals for the natives' food and clothing. As the skins are not now used for the latter purpose, and as the carcass furnishes not more than eight pounds of meat when dressed, the value of the food supply thus contributed is not commensurate with the destructive effect which the killing of pups has upon the seal herd. No killing of pups during the coming year will therefore be permitted. COMPENSATION OF NATIVES FOR TAKING SKINS. It has been decided by the Department that the compensation to be paid to the natives by the North American Commercial Company for driving, killing, salting, and curing the seal skins and loading them on board the company's steamer shall, for the year ending April 30, 1893, be 50 cents for each skin accepted. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 343 Division of money due natives for taking skins. Before leaving the islands you will divide the total earnings of the natives for the season's catch among them, according to such classification as you may deem fair and just after conference with the company's agent and the natives, and make a report of such division showing the amount apportioned to each native participating in the "community fund," accompanied by an indorsement from the company agents and the two head chiefs that such sums have been passed to the credit of the natives on the books of the company. killing of Seals on The Aleutian islands. You Avill use whatever endeavor is possible, by making known more generally the law on the subject, to prevent the killing of seals by the Aleuts on the shores or in the vicinity of the Aleutian Islands. While the Department would be glad to permit these natives to carry out their wishes, it is not possible to do so, as the law is imperative and limits to the Pribilof group of islands the power of the Secretary to authorize the taking of seals. NATIVES. The care and welfare of the natives are matters which should receive your careful attention. While it is not believed that the officers of the company desire other than the fullest compliance with their obligations, you are, nevertheless, expected to inform yourself as to whether there has been, either through thoughtlessness or carelessness, any neglect in conforming, both in letter and spirit, to those provisions of the lease referring to the natives. It is but just to all parties concerned that you acquaint yourself with the prices charged at the company's store as compared with the prices charged in the San Francisco market; also the quality and quantity of the articles supplied. SALMON SUPPLY. The attention of the company has been called to the fact that salt salmon were furnished, while the lease provides for dried. You will inform yourself as to what proportion of the salt fish supplied last year was not used, what amount of dried salmon was provided for this season, and what are the wishes of the natives, bearing in mind that they are sometimes changeable in their tastes. FUEL. In addition to the 80 tons of coal furnished under the lease, contract has been made with the company to supply 220 tons additional, making a total of* 300 tons, 100 tons of which is for the use of St. George and 200 tons for the use of St. Paul. This coal must be distributed under the direct supervision of the Government officer on each island. By reason of this generous provision on the part of the Government it ought not to be necessary for the natives to make additional purchases of fuel. WIDOWS AND INDIGENTS. Your especial attention is called to that clause of the lease which states that the company " will also provide the necessaries of life for the widows, orphans, and aged and infirm inhabitants of said islands who are unable to provide for themselves," and you are informed that the Department understands that this clause includes widows and all other persons, regardless of age, sex, or condition of parentage, who are physically unable to provide for themselves. The "necessaries of life" referred to therein include fuel as well as clothing and subsistence. SANITARY IMPROVEMENTS, ETC. Under that clause of the lease by which the company binds itself to exercise " all reasonable efforts to secure the comfort, health * * * and promote the morals and civilization of said inhabitants," the company have been asked to instruct their superintendent upon the islands to cooperate with the Government agent in determining the most effective method of improving the villages from a sanitary standpoint, both in the matter of furnishing a better water supply and in the removal from the immediate vicinity of the villages from time to time all excrement!tious matter, the same, if possible, to be the subject of a joint report to the Department at an early date. 344 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. MAINTENANCE AND EMPLOYMENT OF NATIVES. As you are aware, there is an item in the pending sundry civil bill providing for the maintenance of the natives during the coming year. At the earliest possible moment you will be informed of the final action of Congress. The Department recognizes the injurious effect which the bestowal of this money as a charity would have upon the natives, and desires that the natives be employed as far as possible in return for the money received by them. The North American Commercial Company have therefore been requested to instruct their superintendent to join with you in preparing a report; first, as to a more effective method of guarding the islands, including a compensation to the natives for watchman service; and, second, what internal improvements of a simple nature can be undertaken that will furnish employment to the natives and prove advantageous to the administration of the island. Should you as the agent in charge find it expedient to put in operation during the coming year any of the suggestions to be presented in the contemplated report, you are authorized to do so and to decide upon an amount per diem to be paid to the natives for any service rendered. natives' supplies. In view of the limited catch upon the islands there, will undoubtedly be many for whom provision must be made during the year. In anticipation of this there is sent you herewith by the Bear two books of blank orders consecutively numbered, and all supplies which the company in the future furnish to natives whose accounts are exhausted must be upon such an order made out and signed by the Treasury agent, and this order appended to the company's general account as a subvoucher and evidence of indebtedness. This will impose no extra clerical work upon the company's agents as their general account will contain but one item, that is, the total amount represented by the accompanying subvouchers. The stub of the order must be retained by the agent to be ultimately transmitted with his report to the Department. TRANSLATION OF RUSSIAN RITUAL. This Department is informed that there is in the hands of the North American Commercial Company the sum of $1,500 which was contributed by the natives twelve years ago for the purpose of having their church servico translated into English. It is the purpose of the Department to have this translation made and to this end you will procure and transmit to the Department at your earliest convenience a copy of the service of the Grseco-Russian Church. REDISTRIBUTION OF CHURCH SUBSCRIPTION. The Department is also informed that there is now deposited with the North American Commercial Company on St. Paul Island the sum of $3,325, raised by the voluntary subscription of the natives for the benefit of their church. It is believed that the interests of the natives will be best subserved by redistributing this money to the original donors or returning it to the natives in such manner as your judgment, aided by a conference with the chief men of the village, will suggest. A full report concerning your action should be made to the Department. SUBSISTENCE OF GOVERNMENT OFFICERS. You are informed that arrangements have been made with the North American Commercial Company by which Government officers will be transported to or from the seal islands for $100, and that subsistence, washing, etc., will be furnished them at the rate of $5 per week while on the islands. JANITOR. Permission is given to employ a janitor for the Government house on each island at a compensation of $20 per month, SCHOOL TEACHER. As Mrs. Nettleton, the present school teacher on St. George, returns to the States this spring, the company have been advised of that fact and requested to furnish a school teacher for the coming year. School will be maintained from September 1 to May 1, and be opened daily, with the exception of Saturday and Sunday. It will be the particular duty of the teacher ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 345 to assist the children in acquiring a knowledge of the English language. Russian is not to be taught in the schools, and church officers must be restrained from interfering with the education of the children in a knowledge of English, and they should be advised that they will only do harm if they attempt to thwart the purpose and earnest desire of the Government to have the children instructed in the language of their country. FOX KILLING. The North American Commercial Company under their lease have the exclusive privilege of trading in seal skins on the Pribilof Islands, and it has been the experience of the Department that the best interests.of the natives will be subserved and much contention avoided if other trading is excluded. On the other hand, you will regardit as your special duty to see that fair prices are paid for all fur skins disposed of by the natives to the company. It is recognized that the fox skins, the taking of which is under the exclusive control of this Department, are an important source of income to the natives at this time, and permission is therefore given to permit them to kill such number of foxes on St. Paul and St. George Islands as will not endanger their future increase. This can probably be best secured by regulating the time during which skins can be taken. The trading on the islands in skins by any officer of the Government for purposes of gain must not be permitted. AGENT'S REPORT. There should accompany your report a schedule which should show (1) the day and hour of the drive; (2) the rookery driven from; (3) the daily killing, whether for food, or if for quota the number, accepted or rejected; (4) the approximate size of the skins; (5) the approximate percentage rejected of those driven for killing; (6) the number that died by the way; (7) the character of the weather, and (8) a convenient summary of totals. In addition to this you will endeavor to prepare similar schedules from the present records on the islands as well as a schedule embodying all information (that the records may show such, as name of vessel, captain, owner, seals killed, disposition of vessel, etc.) concerning raids upon the islands, for transmission to Washington by first mail, one copy to be addressed to Gen. John W. Foster, State Department, and>one copy to the Secretary of the Treasury. If all of this information has not been recorded, as much of it should be sent as appears upon the record, and if entirely lacking for any given year, that fact should be so indicated. This material will be useful both in the preparation of the arbitration case and in the perfecting of the Treasury files. You will also secure any and all information concerning seal life which, in your judgment, can be made useful in considering the international question now pending. A census of the islands should accompany your report, and a statement concerning the general health of the natives. EXCLUSION OF IMPROPER PERSONS. Under the authority conferred upon the Secretary of the Treasury by section 1959 of the Revised Statutes, you are authorized and directed to exclude from landing on or to remove from the Pribilof Islands any person or persons who, in your judgment, come within the terms of this statute, and you are further directed to call upon any United States revenue cutter or other Government vessel to assist you in executing these instructions. OFFICERS VISITING THE ISLANDS. Should any officer or officers of vessels performing service in Bering Sea desire to visit the islands, you will extend.to them any courtesies in your power. These gentlemen will readily appreciate the necessity of the departmental restrictions concerning such matters as disturbing the rookeries, general trading with the natives, giving them liquor, visiting their houses except in the company of a Treasury officer, etc., as well as the requirement that seamen must be accompanied by an officer who by reason of his position is responsible for their conduct while on the islands. IN GENERAL. You will endeavor to secure the goodwill and confidence of the native inhabitants of the islands, and advise them whenever practicable of their rights and duties as American citizens, and by proper means try to increase their friendship for the Government and for the people of the United States and to encourage them in all ways 346 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. of uprightness, morality, and good living; but you will on no account seek to exert any influence which is subversive of their particular religious views. In case of any difference or dispute among the natives or between them and the agents of the lessees in reference to any matter whatever vou will adjust it in a fair and impartial manner, and both parties must abide by your decision. In any differences of opinion that may arise between yourself and the agents of the lessees upon questions pertaining to the administration of the islands your decision must be final until the matter can be laid before the Department. Inclosed are copies of the lease and laws under which it was made. You are empowered to make any addition to the regulations already in force that may be necessary for the guidance of the officers of the Department, the company's agents, and the natives, in the government of the islands. You will use every endeavor and take all necessary precaution to secure the interests of the Government and of the inhabitants of the islands, at the same time to protect the lessees in the enjoyment of all the rights and privileges granted to them under the lease. These instructions apply to both islands, and a copy should be given the agent in charge of St. George for his guidance. Respectfully, yours, Charles Foster, Secretary of Treasury. Maj. W. H. Williams, United States Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 347 PQ H r-l PQ r-i w ►4 oo «3 ©1 3 i-sa «o *s © CD 00 8 ^1 rd CD £3 CD hi. 1 Ks t*> . . . Jj . P> . frf »t>r2 o c ^ O . b- o . o On C o . -tJ o r3 CD c3 CD | d ^ ^ dQC rJQr-j P O Wr/5 0«Pfi.2|Q|.Sgg3P 00 -* O COO OJ CO 00 r-l CNCOOOOOO—ICNCOCNlOCOCC rd 'JS'jonio mo:9X[j; COCO-^i CN CC CN (N CN cr. 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CD o .JO k* 08 Z- CD c * 2 o CO P CO42 O1" 0>H B .5 S co Eh 42 ®-r- O O.C co * an ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 349 Island of St. Paul, Bering Sea, Alaska, September 7,1892. This is to certify that four thousand nine hundred and ninety-six (4,996) fur-seal skins have this day heen shipped on hoard the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha, Capt. Anderson, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. C. H. Anderson, Master. Joseph Murray, Assistant Treasury Agent. Annual Exhibit C. statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, between August 2 and November 27,1891. during the period Date. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Large young seals. Total. Skins accepted by lessees. Skins rejected, stagey. 1891 Aug. 2 13 17 20 27 Sept. 24 Oct. 23 28 Nov. 5 23 26 27 Nov. 18 2 83 55 2 2 36 104 25 2 71 16 o 2 83 55 2 2 36 104 25 2 71 16 2 2 83 55 2 2 East ..do do .. .............. ...... North. . .. ..... 36 do 104 25 2 71 12 2 Starry Ateel Zapadnie, by watchmen North . Zapadnie, by watchmen .... 4 East; cows killed by pirates 400 2 400 2 360 2 40 Total 362 350 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 00 CO rig 00 <3 ^3 =: c eo c» V. 5 00 ^3 © © > CQ j •I'll] [)9().d900C iuuu iBjojj f 1 — 1l* 1 oo Cv 00 i: i -i 1 00 C I COO o IO CM i '9 cT 1 1 CO 1 T- ■spnuod g| •<* \ \ o IO CM s ■spunod xi r—' ', 00 > 00 ! .eo •eptmod oi —' CM & CM r— ■*& > 00 i r-l CO •sputioiI c S3 00 1 *^t I 1 CM "* CM CM ■spanod 8 '"' K :i :i x r; M r. :ijj CM CO CM 01 ~> V ci — ?i — CM 00 •spunod /, ■ 10 ^ t— CM —9 CO "U9T115T t-COCOCMr-IOJCMt-CMOO CdOIMO CM CO C4« .tgquuin pj^oj, i-i — — eo r-i .-« eo -^ IP m:h"M CM •+unoo -.)« IIIIIIMI.I.I 1 -A0-Q no pairing 1 ' ' CO s C4 CO CM • |>.i ).>.>I'.U Kill >;s jo J9quin*js[ j ! ! eo £ coco -1 CM C -M ^ OX CN0OCM —' C<J CM c4 CM •3ra •a;.i11 ui pajCE • ; ■eo o 1—1 ; CO 71 ■P98B9I -9j: .igqiunj^ CM 00 "53 :« •o t*« • !>» OO • o t> ■ 00 ■ r-4 o 00 CN CM ■o CM a> o i—i CO Clubbed. - . i-'i-ci-r.TM-:r/: njcif CN oo cir:-i:i-ri £% HWS 33 5 S S § 5 S S r*< CM CM t-a3lDCMC3rHlMNIMO CM L- <M t- CM CO CM CO CM CM C3 CM ■a9Aupj9quin^ .-« cmco o c- «>-i l- oo •* CM" CM i-T O eo CM o CO CO N S . CO fa £ CD . 7 " — K "jj 7 i N ■f. • 3 ~ CD ■:/. f CD CO N fZ S e |z — a IS ■ .i.i).inn i.i i:; | © CO o o 00 C4 d el O 00 CM o 00 CM O — o CM CM 9 eo o >.- CM I o o CM ■.i.p).iiiiHiu.:,it[ i —r "V *d* -Cr) CM i - t- § «© s u P t2 ) L 5 1 C r* 1 © ** CO rlH CB r-4 »-H 9 60 s s a! p r- 4 £, QC »■ oc CN i- c O P •— - hi ■> rl »- CM C tt — CN 0 oo o ic » ^ b-^ 7, 8, 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 1 2 3. 4, 5 6. 7 8. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 FIRST CLASS. Bourdukoffsky, Apollon Buterin, Karp _• Gromoff, Nicoli Kotchooten, Jacob Kotchooten, John Krukoff, Nicoli Kushin, Aggie Kozeroff, Stepan Mandregan, Neon Melovidov, Antone Melovidov, Alex Nederazoff, Stepan Nederazoff, Martin Oustigoff, Peter Paukoff, Parfiri Parauchin, Daniel Shaishnikoff, Rev. Paul Sedic, Theodore Stepetin, Elary Terrakanoff, Kerrick Tetoff, Peter SECOND CLASS. Artomanoff, Kerrick Arkashoff, Arseney Bogodanoff, Nicoli Emanoff, George Fratis, John Glotoff, John Galaktioneff, Alex Hansen, Alex Kotchooten, Eupheme Melovidov, Simeon Prokopieff, Vladimir Shabolin, Necon Sedulee, Vassily Stepetin, Dorofay Tetoff, Neon Volkoff, Markel THIRD CLASS. Koznitzoff, John Haberoff, Paul Nozikoff, Simeon Merculiff, Alex FOURTH CLASS (BOYS). Sediek, Philip Tetoff, Zachar . I 352 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. SPECIAL CLASS (CHIEFS). 1. First chief .. 2. Second chief $50.00 50.00 Recapitulation—Dr. Prime skins accepted, 4,647, at 50 cents 2,323.50 Prime skins, cut, accepted, 20, at 25 cents 5. 00 Stagey skins rejected, 216, at 50 cents 108.00 Small skins rejected, 112, at 50 cents 56. 00 28 sea-lion skins, at $1 28. 00 $100.00 2, 520.50 2,520.50 Amount paid to natives—Cr. 21 first-class men, at $65.31 1,371.50 16 second-class men, at $52.26 | 836.16 4 third-class men, at $45.71 182. 84 2 fourth-class, boys, at $15 30. 00 2 special class, chiefs, at $50 100.00 2, 520.50 We do hereby certify that the above is correct and that the money has been placed to the credit of the natives on the books of the North American Commercial Company. Nickoli KRukoff, Native chief. Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Joseph Murray, First Assistant Treasury Agent, in Charge of St. Paul Island August 30,1892. Exhibit E. Division of $1,270.50 earned by the natives of St. George Island, Alaska, for taking 2,554 seal skins during the seasons of 1891 and 1892. 362 prime skins taken in 1891, at 50 cents $181. 00 41 stagey skins taken in 1891, at 50 cents 20.50 2,125 prime skins taken in 1892, at 50 cents 1,062.50 26 small skins rejected in 1892, at 25 cents 6.50 First class: Rev. Innokenty Lestenkoff $59. 71 Demetri Lestenkoff 59.21 Arkenty Nederazoff 59.21 Eoff Philimonoff 59. 21 Simeon Philimonoff * 59. 21 Corneil Gorokoff 59.21 Eustin Swetzoff 59. 21 Alexia Oustegoff 59.21 Second class: Nicoli Malavansky 50.40 Andrean Philimonoff 50.40 Andronic Philimonoff 50.40 Stepan Lekanoff 50.40 Peter Prokopoff 50. 40 Peter Rezanzoff 50. 40 Simeon Oustegoff 50.40 Joseph Meculiff.. 50.40 Mike Lestenkoff 50.40 Evan Kulikoloff 50.40 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 353 Third class: Gregory Philimonoff... George Meculiff Parfir Galanin Innokenty Rezanzoff.. Special class: Demetri Lestenkoff Nicoli Nederazoff. Innokenty Philimonoff Anfanisa Prokopoff John Merculiff... $35. 58 35. 58 35. 58 35. 58 50. 00 25. 00 25. 00 25. 00 25. 00 $1,270.50 St. George Island, Alaska, August 20,1892. I certify that the attached statement of $1,270.50, earned by the natives of this island for taking 2,554 seal skins during the seasons of 1891 and 1892, was divided among them as shown, and that the same has been placed to their credit on the books of the North American Commercial Company. A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent, in Charge of St. George Island. St. George Island, Alaska, September 11,1892. I certify that the attached statement is correct, and that the amount earned by each person has been placed to his credit on the books of the North American Commercial Company. Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent. St. George Island, Alaska, August SO, 1892. We are satisfied with the division made to the natives of this island, and we think it is a just division of their earnings for taking 2,554 seal skins during the seasons of 1891 and 1892. Demetri Lestinkoff, First Chief. Eustin (his x mark) Swetziff, Second Chief. Exhibit F. Statement of moneys in the hands of the North American Commercial Company to the credit of the natives on St. George Island, Alaska, August 10, 1892. Lestenkoff, Demetri (chief) $180.93 Lestenkoff, Mike 80.00 Swetzoff, Eustin (second chief). 15.59 Gorokoff. Corneil 30.24 Lekanoff, Stepan 9.93 Oustegoff, Alexia 16.09 Prokopoff, Peter Prokopoff, Anfanisa 5.11 Nederazoff, Arkenty 50.54 Nederazoff, Nicoli Philimonoff, Eoff 4.84 Philimonoff, Andronic Philimonoff, Andrean Philimonoff, Simeon 40.50 Philimonoff, Gregory 8.28 Philimonoff, Innokenty Oustegoff, Simeon 23.23 Malavansky, Nicoli Note.—Government orders issued to $56.55. H. Doc, 92- Merciliff, Joseph $23.23 Merciliff, John 2.26 Merciliff, George Rezanzoff, Peter Galanin, Perfei 9. 33 Kukilaloff, Evan 62.71 Rezanzoff, Innokenty ' Lestenkoff, Rev. Innokenty 148.00 Orphans: Rezanzoff, Serefena . $26.45 Merculiff, Nesda 147.84 Merculiff, Natalia... 20. 65 Vickoloff, Evdokia . 200.19 Merculiff, Mark..... 187.54 582.67 2, 625.48 destitute persons up to date amount to A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent, in Charge, m 354 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit G. Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, for the year ending June 30, 1892, and statement of native funds to their credit on the books of the North American Commercial Company. Family. Person. 1 2 1 3 2 4 5 3 6 7 8 9 10 4 11 12 13 14 $&f. 15 16 17 18 19 6 20 21 22 23 24 25 7 26 27 28 29 8 30 31 32 33 9 34 35 36 37 10 38 11 39 40 12 41 42 13 43 44 45 46 47 48 14 49 50 51 52 53 .15 54 55 56 57 58 16 59 60 61 62 17 63 64 65 66 18 67 68 69 70 71 19 72 73 74 75 20 76 77 Names. Ajre. Males. Females 67 41 20 27 22 '46" 14* 40 A rtomanoff, Kerrick Artomanoff, Alexandria (wife).. Ivanoff, Evdokea (orphan) Arkashoff, Arseney .Bogodanoff, Nicoli Bogodanoff, Anna (wife) .- Bourdnkoffsky, Appollon Bourdukoffsky, Chioua (wife).. - Bourdukoffsky, Peter (son) Bourdukoffsky, Uleta (daughter) Lodoshnikoff, Evdoka (orphan) . Buterin, Karp Buterin, Parascovia (wife) | - - Buterin, Constantino (son) Sediek, Zachar (orphan) Emanoff, George Emanoff, Catherine (wife) Emanoff, Mary (daughter) Kosnitzoff, John (orphan) Kosnitzoff, Agafia (orphan) Fratis, John. Fratis, Aukoolena (wife) I - Fratis, Susanna (daughter) Fratis, Ellen (daughter) 1 Fratis,John (son) 7 Fratis, Agrifina (daughter) j Infant. Glotoff", John I 26 I Book account credit. $2,148.33 6.00 23 15.00 33 9 17 38 97.61 20 1 895.33 14 48 22 15 9 137.00 253. 25 1,345. 00 Glotoff, Avdotia (wife) Glotoff, Mary (mother) Zacharoff, Emanuel Gromoff, Nicoli Gromoff, Ouleanna (wife) Sediek, Elizabeth (orphan) Zacharoff, Fedosia (orphan) Galaktineff, Alex Galaktineff, Martha (wife) Galaktineff, Clavida (sister) Zatzmaneff, Auxenia Hansen, Alex Haberoff, Paul Haberoff, Agrifinia (wife).., Kotchooten, Eupheme Kotchooten, Pelogie (wife) Kotchooten, Jacob Kotchooten, Fevronia (wife) Kotchooten, Uleta (daughter) Kotchooten, Ellen (daughter) Kotchooten, Theodore (son) Lodoshinkoff, Natalia (stepchild) - - Kozeroff, Stepan Kozeroff, Anastasia (wife) Kozeroff, Yavenally (son) Kozeroff, Suendnle (daughter) Nozikoff, Simeon (stepson) Krukoff, Nicoli Krukoff, Catherine (wife) Krukoff, Metrofan (son) Krukoff, Oustenia (daughter) Krukoff, Droseda (daughter) Krukoff, Maxim Krukoff, Feotesta (wife) Krukoff, John (son) Krukoff, Coudrat (son) Kushin, Aggie Kushin, Mary (wife) Kushin, Lukera (daughter) Knshin, Michael (son) Mandregan, Neon Mandregan, Mary (daughter) Mandregan, Zoya (daughter) Mandregan, Innokenty (son) Shutyagin, Uleta (widow) Merculiff, Alex (unmarried) Merculiff, Martin (brother) Merculiff, Luboff (sister) Merculiff, Ellen (sister) Melovidov, Antone Melovidov, Alexandria (daughter) 19 65 12 26 .«.. 24 6 17 22 35 42 33 14 16 50 43 42 39 19 9 41 17 43 10 13 2 39 9 36 18 12 38 19.00 42.00 £61.25 "*9.*66 28.00 8.00 14 61.00 42 2 33 Infant. 28 1 38 16 7.00 ... .... 9 6 26 • 20.00 16 14 12 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 355 Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, for the year ending June 30, 1892, etc.—Continued. Family. Person 20 79 80 81 82 21 83 84 85 22 86 87 88 89 23 90 91 92 93 24 94 95 96 97 98 99 25 100 101 102 26 103 104 105 106 107 27 108 109 28 110 111 29 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 30 120 121 122 31 123 124 125 126 127 32 128 129 130 131 33 132 133 34 134 135 136 35 137 138 139 140 36 141 142 143 37 144 145 146 147 148 38 149 150 151 39 152 153 40 154 155 156 41 157 158 Names. Melovidov, Olga (daughter) Melovidov, Mary (daughter) Melovidov, Alexandra (mother) ... Melovidov, Alexander (brother)... Shaishnikoff, Matrona (orphan) ... Melovidov, Simeon Melovidov, Alexandra (wife) Melovidov, Lydmelia (daughter).. Nederazoff, Stephan Nederazoff, Alexandra (wife) Nederazoff, Mary (niece) i Hopoff, Nekita (orphan) Nederazoff, Martin Nederazoff, Catherine (wife) Shane, Mary (stepchild) Shane, Parascovia (orphan) Oustigoff, Peter Oustigoff, Parascovia (wife) Oustigoff, Stepeneda (mother) Oustigoff, Neil (son) Ivanoff, Anastasia (orphan) Shaishnikoff, George (orphan) Prockopieff, Vladimr Prokopieff, Anxenia (wife) Merculiff, Paul (orphan) Paukoff, Parhri Paukoff, Olga (wife) Paukoff, Vlasia (son) Paukoff, Varvara (daughter) Rezanzoff, Natalia (wife's mother) Parauchin, Daniel Parauchin, Alexandra (wife) Shaishnikoff, Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff, Valerian (orphan) ... Sediek, Theodore Sediek, Martha (wife) Sediek, Anastasia (daughter) Sediek, Mary (daughter) Sediek, Tustenia (daughter) Sediek, Matrona (daughter) Sediek, Innokenty (son) Sediek, Philip (nephew) Shabolin, Necon , Shabolin, Agrifinia (daughter) Shutyagin, Catherine (orphan) Sedulin, Vassily Sedulin, Elizabeth (wife) Sedulin, Vera (daughter) Meezeekan, Mary (orphan) Meezeekan, Ivan (Mary's son) Stepetin, Elary Stepetin, Anna (wife) Stepetin, Ouleanna (daughter) Stepetin, Paola (daughter) Stepetin, Dorofay Stepetin, Vassa (wife) | Terrakanoff, Kerrick Terrakanoff, Anna (wife) Shane, Elevary (orphan) Tetoff, Peter Tetoff, Mary (wife) Tetoff, Alexandra (sister) Gleboff, Chionia (wife's mother) .. Tetoff, Neon Tetoff, Agrifinia (wife) Tetoff, Zachar (brother) Volkoff, Markel Volkoff, Alaxandria (wife) Volkoff, Ellen (sister) Kushin, Mavra (orphan) Merculiff, John (orphan) Widows who are heads of families, helpless ones. Balakshin, Matrona Balakshin, Agafia (orphan) Shaposhmkoff, Parascovia , Bellaglazoff, Ellen • Terrakanoff, Mary Kotchooten, Mary Kotchooten, Trefon (son) Shane, Feocla (orphan) Koshievinikoff, Avdotia Age. Males. Females. 19 36 29 35 51 26 Infant. 33 32 23 40 23 5 Infant. ""26' 24 17 and indigent and Book account credit. $43.00 100. 00 19.00 93.19 14.00 32.00 i, 830.07 165.09 38.00 453.67 195." 77 27.00 78.00 "39*66 28.66 "21.66 '26.* 66 624.66 278." 66 ll 356 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, for the year ending June 30, 1892, etc.—Continued. Family. Person. 42 159 43 160 161 44 162 163 164 165 166 45 167 168 169 46 170 171 172 47 173 48 174 175 49 176 177 178 179 50 180 51 181 182 183 184 52 185 18. 187 53 188 189 54 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 Names. Balakshin, Agafia (orphan)—Continued. Koshievimkoff, Paul (son) Krukoff, Anna Krukoff, Natalia (son) Krukoff, John Kozloff, Parascovia £ Kozloff, Michael (son) Kozloff, Nicoli (son) Serebrinikoff, Olga (sister) Bogodanoff, Mary (orphan) Nederazoff, Aukoolena Nederazoff, Agrifina (daughter) Nederazoff, Alexia (grandson) Popoff, Avdotia Popoff, Evrosenia (daughter) Balakshin, Anna (daughter) Peeshnikoff, Vassilisa Popoff, Afanasia Shutyagin, Daria (orphan) Rookovishnikoff, Annissa Rookovishnikoff, Stepan (son) Rookovishnikoff, Anna (daughter) Rookovishnikoff, Parascovia (daughter) Rezanzoff, Anna Sediek, Daria , Kotchooten, John Kotchooten, Zenobia (daughter) Kotchooten, Ellen (daughter) Tetoff, Feclusia Tetoff, Irene (daughter) Tetoff, Sofia (daughter) , Terrantova, Anna Terrantova, Anna (daughter) Orphan children, natives of St. Paul Island, who are now at school in Unalaska: Pohomoff Salome , Shutyagin Parascovia Shaposhnikoff Tatianna Shaishnikoff Nedesda Sediek Avdotia Krukoff Lukeria Age. Males. Females. 10 13 12 23 18 21 19 16 12 18 27 41 35 29 19 47 25 34 2 10 34 48 13 28 9 4 60 50 25 19 36 9 7 74. 41 Book account credit. $12. 00 7.66 75.75 141.80 178.56 100.02 9, 885.64 * This sum does not include the money passed to their credit on account of the distribution of the church fund. M -, \ Becapitulation of census, 1892. 18 years and over 40 5 years to 18 27 Under 5 years 7 Total males 74 Females: 18 years and over 69 5 years to 18 42 Under 5 years 11 Total females 122 Total native population 196 Total native population June 30, 1891 203 Gain by births during the year ending June 30, 1892 •. 5 Gain by arrival of natives from Unalaska 3 Loss by death during the year ending June 30, 1892 19 Loss by natives leaving St. Paul 2 211 21 Total native population on St. Paul Island June 30, 1892 190 Number of women without husbands. Number of men without wives 30 7 Jos.. Murray, First Assistant Special Agent. « a 1* U Ph (k 1 2 3 4 5 1 6 7 8 2 9 10 11 12 3 13 14 15 16 17 18 4 19 20 21 22 5 23 24 25 6 26 27 28 29 30 31 7 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 8 39 40 41 42 43 9 44 45 46 47 10 48 49 50 11 51 12 52- 53 54 55 56 13 57 58 59 14 60 61 62 63 15 j 64 65 66 16 67 68 69 17 70 71 72 73 74 18 75 76 Lestenkoff, Rev. Innokenty Lestenkoff, Elizabeth Lestenkoff, Helena Lestenkoff, Mary Lestenkoff, Michael Lestenkoff, Sarah Lestenkoff, Demertria Lestenkoff, Anna Merculiff, Mark Philomonoff, Andronic Philomonoff, Lenovia Philimonoff, Mariana Philimonoff, Mary Philimonoff, Simeon Philimonoff, Eodokia Philimonoff, Innokenty Philimonoff, Fedosia Philimonoff, Joseph Philimonoff, Loa Philimonoff, Andronic Philimonoff, Parascovia Philimonoff, Pelegia Philimonoff, Simeon Oustegoff, Alexia Oustegoff, Martha Oustegoff, Mike Philimonoff, Eoff Philimonoff, Olletta Philimonoff, Gregoria Philimonoff, Eoegenia Philimonoff, Demetri Oustegoff, Eproxia Malavansky, Nicoli Malavansky, Repsemia Malavansky, Wassa Malavansky, Stepneda Malavansky, Kleopatra Malavansksy, Peter Oustegoff, Susan Nederazoff, Arkenty Nederazoff, Evgenia Nederazoff, Malina Nederazoff, Nicoli Nederazoff, Isidore Lekanoff, Stepan Lekanoff, Pelegia Lekanoff, Annolia Lekanoff, Sergus Swetzoff, Eustin Swetzoff, Catherina Swetzoff, Gregoria. Oustegoff, Simeon Prokopoff, Peter Prokopoff, Anfanasia... Rezanzoff, Fedosia Rezanzoff, Innokenty .. Rezanzoff, Serefenia Swetzoff, Palexina Swetzoff, Fervona Swetzoff, Paul Gorokoff, Cornile Gorokoff, Katerina Galanin, Parfisi Galanin, Alexander Kulikoloff, Evan Kulikoloff, Varoarivina Vickoloff, Evdokia Rezanzoff, Peter Rezanzoff, Matrona Rezanzoff, Fatima Shane, Riessa Shane, Olletta Shane, Michael Merculiff, Stapan Merculiff, Nedesda Galarim, Occolina...... a Months. ■Ml 358 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. George Island, Alaska, August 1, 1892—Continued. r>! a id o . co o CDr2? g g 19 77 78 79 80 81 82 20 83 84 85 86 87 88 21 89 Name. Galarim, Evan Merculiff, Fervona.. Merculiff, Joseph Merculiff, George ... Merculiff, Stepenida. Merculiff, Helena ... Merculiff, John Merculiff, Wassalesa Merculiff, Evan Merculiff, Alexander Merculiff Evdokia.. Merculiff", Helena Merculiff, Nicoli Sex. M. F. M. M. F. F. M. F. M. F. F. F. M. Family relation. Son Widow... Son do.... Daughter. do.... Son "Widow... Son... Daughter. do.--. do.-.. Son Age. 10 38 20 18 16 7 2 40 15 13 8 2 15 Name. Age. Remarks. A. "W. Lavender. .. 49 42 9 3 61 52 64 29 49 United States Treasury agent. Wife. Mary E. Lavender R. w. Lavender Son. Harrison M. Lavender Do. Daniel W"ebster .. Agent North American Commercial Company. Physician. Employee North American Commercial Company. Do. L. A. Noyes. - . . Paul Mitchell F. C. Tichenor Cook. SUMMARY. Native population --- 89 Males •.. 44 Females 45 Males between the ages of 30 and 50 9 Females between the ages of 30 and 50 13 Males between the ages of 15 and 30 15 Females between the ages of 15 and 30 14 Males between the ages of 5 and 15 10 Females between the ages of 5 and 15 14 Males under 5 years old 9 Females under 5 years old 5 Total population (native) 89 A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent in Charge of St. George Island. Exhibit I. Washington, D. C, December 1,1892. Sir : In reply to your request I have to say that I have read your recommendations to the Department concerning the subjects of sanitary improvements on the Pribilof Islands and on the furnishing employment to the natives thereon during the period of small killings of seals; the suggestions embody the conclusions reached by us in our discussions of these questions during the past summer, and I concur in the same. Very respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Mr. J. Stanley-Brown, Acting United States Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 359 Beport of Assistant Agent Joseph Murray. Fort Collins, Colo., December 1, 1892. Sir: I have the honor to report that in pursuance of instructions dated March 19", 1892, I reported for duty to the Department of State, and was ordered to "proceed to the Pacific Coast to assist in the preparation of matter pertaining to the Bering Sea controversy." I left Washington, D. C, on March 20, and after visiting several cities on the coast, I sailed from Port Townsend, per steamer Albatross, on March 31, and steered for Port Alexander, in Cooks Inlet, where I landed on April 8. After touching land at Saldovia and Coal Point, I went to Kadiak Island, where I spent three days taking testimony, and then went to Port Etches, in Prince William Sound, where I landed on the 16th day of April. After calling at several stations along the coast of Alaska, I returned to Port Townsend and forwarded to the Department the information! had obtained. While at Port Townsend I received instructions from the Secretary of the Treasury to proceed without delay to my station on the seal islands. I sailed per steamer Albatross on the 10th of May, arriving at Unalaska on the 19th, whence I sailed, on board theU. S. S. Torktown, on the 23d for St. Paul Island, where I landed on the 24th of May, and immediately relieved Agent Barnes, who had leave to return to the States. SEAL KILLING. Beginning on May 19 and ending on August 9 there was killed on St. Paul Island 4,225 seals, 16 of which were taken by order of the Secretary of the Treasury for the use of the Department of State. These were prepared so as to be used for museum specimens, and have been deposited in the National Museum. There were 800 seals killed in November, 1891 (of which 216 were rejected as stagey), which, added to those of the present season, make a total of 5,025 seals. The seals killed in November, 1891, belong to the 7,500 apportionment to that year, but their skins were not taken from the island until September, 1892. I inclose a record of the daily killings. (See Exhibit B.) PRESERVATION OF THE MEAT KILLED. As there are no seals taken on the islands now, excepting those taken for natives' food, and as the annual catch of 7,500 allowed by law is not enough, under existing conditions, it becomes necessary for the Department to devise and establish methods for preserving all the seal carcasses killed, for every pound of them will be needed for food. That the meat can be preserved by canning I have no doubt; and that a part of it may be preserved by smoking has been demonstrated, I think,, during the past season, when, with the most primitive contrivances, several thousand shoulders were dried and smoked very nicely. CANNING TO BE PREFERRED. The canning process, if successful, is to be preferred, because it is cheaper and more convenient, and because the whole carcass can be utilized and the meat kept, almost, in its natural state, which will make it much more palatable for the natives. WHEN TO XILL. All killing ought to be done in June and July, because at that time the skins are in prime condition, and the flesh is at its best for canning. As the stagey season begins about August 10, and continues till December, during which time the flesh is poor and the skin almost valueless, the position taken by the Department that no seals shall be killed for any purpose during that period is a good one. natives' church subscription. In the summer of 1891 one Bishop Valdimir, of San Francisco, came to St. Paul Island to collect money, and the resident priest gave him three sacks of coin, said to contain $3,325, which the bishop turned over to the North American Commercial Company for transportation to San Francisco. At the same time there were many of the natives (who had originally contributed this money) without means, and a majority of them were paupers in fact, and dependent on the Government for subsistence. Under such circumstances the agent in charge forbid the removal-of the funds until he communicated with the Department. 360 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. In pursuance of instructions dated May 2,1892, the money was taken and counted, and the three sacks were found to contain $3,344.10, and it was divided among the natives as follows: To the priest $200.00 To 188 persons, $16.12 each 3,030.56 To 7 orphans, $16.22 each 113.54 To 196 persons 3,344.10 The money was immediately spent for clothing, of which most of the people were very much in need. natives' earnings. The natives' earnings amounted to $2,520.50, which was divided among them according to the usual classification, as per instructions dated May 2, 1892; and I herewith inclose a detailed statement. (See Exhibit D.) ORDERS. Previous to the division of earnings I found it necessary to issue weekly orders to the natives for food and clothing, which at the end of two months amounted in the aggregate to $1,925.78. The stubs of these orders have already been handed you. As soon as the division of earnings was made I stopped the issuing of orders and told the men that so long as they had money of their own the Government would not pay .their bills. In all my intercourse with the natives I have endeavored to impress upon them a sense of the value of time and money, and to make them understand the difference between the energetic man, who takes pride in working for what he receives, and the lazy, shiftless fellow, who prefers to be a pauper. When it became necessary to fjeed them at Government expense and to issue orders for supplies, I opened an account with each sealer and made him debtor for the orders given him, and I gave him credit at the rate of 15 cents per hour for every hour's work done. natives' work. At the close of the killing season I set the men to work on the streets, which they cleaned and graded and graveled. They painted the Government house and graded, the grounds around it; and then I began the building of a main road from the center of the village to the west landing, which was badly needed for a long time, and which, when completed, will be a benefit to all on the island. Once the men understood what was expected of them they entered into the spirit of the thing with pleasure, and they worked willingly and well. It ought to be borne in mind, though, that they are neither hardy nor physically strong, and that they are not fitted for hard manual labor, such as is necessary in road making. A day of not to exceed five hours is quite long enough for any of them to swing a pick or wheel a loaded barrow. DECREASE OF SEALS. I visited the rookeries occasionally during the killing season, and I found a marked decrease in the seals of all ages and sexes since 1891. dead pups. I walked over every rookery on the island during the week beginning with September 1 and ending September 7 in search of dead pups, and excepting on Tolstoi there were only a normal number to be seen. On Tolstoi I found a number of dead pups, but not any more than can be accounted for from natural and well-known causes. RETURN TO WASHINGTON. On the 17th of August I received instructions from the Department, dated July 8, — — _. — — —0_— _ — ^ ^ -/ report at Port Townsend, and on the 21st of August Mr. Ainsworth arrived at the and to relieve me. I sailed from St. Paul Island on September 7 on the North Commercial Company's steamer Bertha and arrived in San Francisco on to isl American the 28th. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 361 WATCHHOUSES. Before leaving the island I gave Mr. Ainsworth full instructions as to his duties during my absence, and especially of the necessity of building the watchhouses and guarding the rookeries against raids. The lumber for the watchhouses was landed from the Bertha before I sailed, and Mr Ainsworth has since informed me by letter that the watchhouses were completed and garrisoned by the native men. HOW TO GUARD THE ROOKERIES. It has been said that to thoroughly guard the rookeries will require a force of soldiers or marines on each of the islands, but the advocates of such a scheme do not understand or appreciate the real situation. The natives are able and willing to guard the rookeries, and under competent direction are found to perform the service efficiently and thoroughly. It is recommended that their present breech-loading rifles be superseded by Winchester rifles of the caliber .45-.70. TRANSLATING THE RITUAL. '■.-.«. • Before I left the island the natives assembled at my house and told me that the money set aside to pay for translating the ritual was not intended for an English translation, but for a translation from the Russian into the Aleut, their own native tongue. They expressed themselves as having no antipathy to having their church ritual in English if they could have it in Aleut too; and they suggested that the school should be kept open every day in the year, except necessary holidays, of which they named twelve that they wished to be allowed to observe and keep as sacredly as the Sabbath. HABITS, CUSTOMS, ETC. It should be kept in view while considering the present status and low condition of the inhabitants of the seal islands that they are in some respects not more than two removes from childish simplicity and in other respects not more than one remove from barbarism, and that they need a guardian and a conscientious gui de, as well as an overseer and a ruler. They know but very little, if anything, about domestic economy or thrift, and the word ambition has no place in their vocabulary. Give him his year's earnings all at one time and the average sealer will spend the whole sum on the spot, and he will purchase articles which he not only does not need, but of which he knows not the use. Give him an opportunity to get liquor or the ingredients to make it and he will get drunk in spite of pledge or promise given to the contrary. He has no idea of a moral responsibility, courts rather than shuns death, and feels sure of eternal bliss in a future state. He is an enthusiastic believer in the "church," and could be wonderfully improved thereby if the church would attempt anything for his improvement morally or physically while living in this world. But the "church" as it is known on the seal islands is nothing more than idle ceremony and the mumbling of a priest who is a native of St. Paul Island and is fully as ignorant as any of his unfortunate congregation. To expect one brought up in such surroundings to appreciate thrift or to practice economy is to expect the impossible, and to treat him as a criminal because of his ignorance or to attempt to reform him by fining or imprisonment or starvation is to attempt to surpass him in imbecility. During a four years' residence on the seal islands I learned by experience that after all the neglect and bad treatment he formerly received, and in spite of his surroundings and lack of opportunity, the native Aleut has within him the germs of many good traits which need but the kindness and charity due from those above him to one of his helpless condition to make a fairly good and useful citizen. Prominent among others of his many good traits are honesty, docility, obedience, and a love of law and order equal to that of any people in the Union. I respectfully suggest, therefore, that we do him simple justice before we condemn him or leave him to his fate. Let us give him an education before we blame him for not having it. Let us give him a school in which his children can not only learn to read and write the English language, but where they will be under the care of Christian men and women, who will teach them, by precept and example, to be pure and clean in all things, both morally and physically. 362 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. INDUSTRIAL SCHOOLS. There is one sure remedy for the present intellectual condition of the natives, and that is the immediate establishment on both islands of industrial boarding schools under the entire control of the Government. In my report of 18911 advocated this thing, and all my subsequent experience has strengthened my belief in the necessity for such a school and in its absolute success if once attempted. There is a skeleton of such a school at Unalaska that has been made sueessfulby the energy and indomitable perseverance of the teachers in charge, and in September, 1890, I sent six girls there from St. Paul Island, four of whom could not speak English, and after a stay of two years they had improved so much in every way—morally,physically, and intellectually—that they have been the wonder of all who have visited the school and who remember their condition before entering it. Their rapid improvement shows what may be accomplished for this people by putting their children in charge of truly Christian teachers, who will guard them from evil while awakening and enlightening the mind. Four other orphan girls were sent to the Unalaska school this year, but since then I have learned that the church society which supported the school has withdrawn all further supplies from it, which means the closing of the" school at an -early date and the return of the St. Paul girls to the island and to misery and vice. CENSUS. - I inclose a copy of the census (Exhibit G) of St. Paul Island for the year ended June 30, 1892, which shows a native population at that time of 196 persons. Nineteen had died during the year and 5 were born. So much has been said and so often about the fearful death rate on the seal islands that it is not necessary for me to add more. A great deal of sickness and many deaths might be prevented by the natives themselves if they had average common sense, but I do know that many lives might be saved by the adoption of a few very simple precautionary measures, of which a full supply of good water, ventilation, good beds, and proper sanitary conditions would be the most essential, and these things should be forced on the people if necessary, rather than leave them to introduce such improvements themselves. A visit in company with the agent in charge to the natives' houses last summer revealed the fact that there were forty beds of all sorts accommodating a population of 196 persons. From this it will be seen how universal is the habit of sleeping on the floor. MARRIAGE. The attention of the Department is respectfully called to the difference in number of the sexes on St. Paul Island. Females of all ages 122 Males of all ages 74 Excess of females 48 Females of 18 years and over 69 Males of 18 years and over 40 Excess of marriageable women 29 That this excess is the cause of much of the immorality complained of is only too true, and an earnest effort should be made to find a remedy. There is another cause for existing immorality, however, of far more power and importance than any other, and that is the peculiar construction put upon the church's law of marriage by the resident priest, who refuses to marry anyone within the fifth degree of blood relationship; and he makes blood relations of all whose relatives marry relatives of the intended husband or wife. The result is that marriages must of necessity cease on St. Paul Island, for, according to that ruling, the present population are all of one blood. The priest told me that he dare not perform the marriage ceremony for any couple so long as there was the least doubt of their possible relationship, but that it was within the power of a bishop to grant the necessary dispensation. If the bishop at San Francisco can not be induced to grant such dispensations, it will be necessary to remove about half the present population from the islands and brine: in new blood from somewhere else. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 363 SUMMARY. To repeat the suggestions here respectfully offered, I advise that no more seals be killed before June nor after July; that all the meat be canned if it is found that it can be preserved in that way; that the natives be furnished Winchester rifles> and the custom of paying them for their time and labor be continued; that Treasury .agents of good health and physical ability as well as exceptionally good morals be sent to the islands; that industrial boarding schools be established by the Government and kept under its control forever; that none but men of good morals, broad and liberal views, good education, and ability to read the church services in the English language be allowed on the islands as priests or pastors; that pure water, good drainage, good beds, clean houses, warmth, and ventilation be provided and insisted on; that stringent rules be adopted and enforced, by which very few strangers will be allowed to visit the rookeries while the seals are on land; that an effort'be made to amicably adjust local differences on the islands, and to instill into all concerned the fact that the interests of the lessees and of the Government are one and the same. Very respectfully, Joseph Murray, First Assistant Special Agent. J. Stanley-Brown, Acting Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. conducting seal killing Beport of Assistant Agent A. W. Lavender. St. George Island, Alaska, September 7, 1892. Sir: I have the honor to make you the following report of the seal catch on this island from August 13, 1891, to August 10, 1892; of the condition of the rookeries as I find them, and of the health and financial condition of the natives, together with such recommendations as I think would be beneficial in hereafter: First.—I have handed you a statement (Exhibit C) of seals killed by my predecessor, United States Treasury Agent S. R. Nettleton, showing that between August 13, 1891, and May 1, 1892, there, were 402 seals killed for native food, 41 of which had stagey skins which are to be shipped on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha and consigned to the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco for account of the United States Treasury Department, in accordance with my orders. Second.—I have handed you a statement of seals killed this season (Exhibit C), which shows that there were 1Q,260 seals driven from the rookeries, out of which 2,125 were clubbed and 26 died in driving. The skins of the 26 weighed about 5 pounds each. They were rejected by the agents'of the lessees and are to be shipped on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha and consigned to the North American Commercial Company of San Francisco for account of the United States Treasury Department. I have written both the Secretary of the Treasury and the collector of customs at San Francisco to that effect. Third.—Special care has been taken in driving seals from the rookeries, and our proportion of rejected skins is very small considering the weight of skins accepted by the company this season. I shall kill, after October 20, 349 good seals if they are to be found on the island, in order to complete our allotment of 2,500 out of the 7,500 which are to be killed for native food in accordance with the international agreement. I do not think it advisable to drive seal between the 1st day of August and the 20th day of October; about August 1 the rookeries are badly broken up, and male and female are mixed, together on the hauling grounds aud can not be separated. While it may not injure the seal to drive them, I am of the opinion that the female should not be disturbed. There were a number of females in the last two drives we made. The diminution in seal life has been very marked on this island. If it were possible to count all the seals here, including cows and pups, I do not think the number would reach 25,000. No seal should be killed from August 1 until after the stagey season. A statement (Exhibit F) was handed you showing the amount of money to the credit of the natives on August 10, 1892, by which you will see that there was but little to each individual account other than the priest, chief, and orphans. Government orders to the amount of $56.58 have been issued up to the above date. I also handed you a census report (Exhibit H) by which you will see that there has been but one death for the past sixteen months. This is an excellent showing, mmam 364 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. and I think it largely owing to the extra supply of fuel which has been furnished and other necessaries which they (the natives) have been allowed to purchase. The coal supply of 100 tons is enough, but not too much. We have one more fire to furnish this coming winter than last, and next season there will be two or three additional fires to supply. I send you a statement (Exhibit E) of the division of money earned by the natives for taking 2,554 seal skins, $1,270.50, which has been divided satisfactorily to the natives, the officer in charge, and to the general agent of the North American Commercial Company. No dried or salt salmon has been landed on this island this season. We have 15 barrels of salt salmon on hand. When the transfer was made from the Alaska Commercial Company to the North American Commercial Company, there were 20 barrels here at that time. The North American Commercial Company landed 10 barrels in June, 1890, and 16 barrels in June, 1891. No other fish have been landed here for the use of the natives that I am aware of. I understand that there is a lot of dried salmon to be landed this fall. Will write you all the particulars as soon as "it is received. . The North American Commercial Company have complied with all the requirements of the lease up to date. They have delivered 100 gross tons of coal to the officer in charge for the use of the natives, and a receipt for same has been signed. An additional report will be made and sent you by the last steamer going to San Francisco. Very respectfully, yours, Albert W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent in Charge of St. George Island. J. Stanley-Brown, Acting United States Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands, Washington, D. C. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, September 10,1892. Sir: I have the honor to inclose you herewith shipping receipt for 2,553 skins shipped on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha, and to inform you that there has been landed on this island for native use the following supplies: Fifteen cases roast beef, 20 cases tomatoes, 1,000 dried salmon. I am informed hy Mr. Tingle that more dried salmon are to follow. Very respectfully, A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent. J. Stanley-Brown, Esq., United States Treasury Agent in Charge of Seal Islands. Report of Special Agent Murray.—Seal Tables. Office Special Agent Treasury Department, December 30,1892.% Sir : I have the honor to hand you herewith a series of tables setting forth the number of fur seals killed on the Pribilof Islands, for all causes whatsoever, during the term of the lease of the Alaska Commercial Company j that is, from 1870 to 1889, both inclusive. These tables have been compiled by me with great care from the official records of the Pribilof Islands, and are correct, careful comparisons having been made. They include every seal killed from any cause, intentional or accidental, incident to the taking of seal skins on the islands of St. Paul and St. George. Respectfully, yours, Joseph Murray, First Assistant Special Agent. Hon. Charles Foster, m Secretary of the Treasury. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 365 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, for whatsoever purpose, on the Pribilof Islands during the term of the lease of the Alaska Commercial Company; that is, from 1870 to 1889, both inclusive. #P [Note.—There is a misapprehension in-regard to the names of the several rookeries and hauling erounds, and they are often confounded hy people who are not thoroughly acquainted with them. IZoltoi and Garbotch. are local subdivisions'of the Reef rookery and are treated as rookeries hy some of the Treasury agents, while others ignore them altogether. Zapadine and Southwest Bay are one. Polivinia and Half-way Point are one; some men using the Russian while others use the English names. English Bay and Middle Hill are separate and distinct rookeries, and yet they are often spoken of as though they were one. Near is a local subdivision of North rookery. Little East is a local subdivision of East rookery. Sea Lion Rock, Southwest Point, and Rocky Point are neither rookeries nor hauling grounds in the strict sense of the term; the seals come and go at will; for it is only under the most favorable conditions of wind and water they can be reached, and it is but seldom there are many of them. By keeping these facts in mind it will be seen that seals were driven from all of the hauling grounds on both islands from 1870 to date.] 187©. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. Rookery. Not indicated in the records of this year Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. 2,800 Bachelors. 6,449 Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 6,449 6,065 Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 6,017 48 Total killed, for all purposes. 15,314 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Not indicated in the records of this year Alaska Commercial Co.. Hutchinson, Kohl & Co.. Total •1, 200 1,200 I 473 6,786 473 5,786 7,259 7,259 1,200 473 6,786 8,459 TOTALS EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives! food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. **-R£r St. Paul 2, 800 6,449 St.George 1,200 Skins accepted. Totals.... 4,000 6,449 Skins rejected. Bachelors. 6,449 6,449 Skins accepted. 6,065 7,259 6,017 7,259 Skins rejected. 48 13,324 13,276 48 Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Bachelors. 12, 514 7,259 Skins accepted. 6,017 7,259 Skins rejected. Grand total killed for all purposes. 6,497 15,314 8,459 19,773 13,276 6,497 23,773 ■■ 366 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1871. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed foi . _„.. . r. ■, Seals killed for skins 1 natives food. .<. i„„„^„„ for lessees. Total kiUed Date. *<*■• W6- Skins accepted. S|£n8 1 Bache- jeSed.! lor8- Skins accepted. Skins re- jeoted. for all purposes. May 16 24 Tolstoi 186 246 175 243 11 '3 186 Reef 246 June 1 2 Reef 579 222 917 1,682 2,701 874 1,167 1,399 1,971 1,283 578 220 904 1,670 2,699 868 1.130 1,387 1,970 1,283 495 791 2,653 1,006 2,388 1,118 2,038 1,187 3,623 751 1,029 1,922 778 3,352 1,172 1, 788* 1,388 3,836 650 1 o 13 12 o 6 37 12 1 23 5 1 • 8 i:t 15 o 5 11 18 23 52 7 19 30 9 7 579 29'1 6 ..do.. 917 8 English Bay.. .......... 1,682 10 Southwest Bay.......... 2,701 14 Zoltoi 874 15 Zoltoi and English Bay.. 1,167 16 1,399 20 1,971 22 1,283 23 .... 518 796 2,654 1,014 2,401 1,133 2,038 1,189 518 24 Reef.. 796 24 29 28 Northeast Point Zoltoi and Reef 2,654 1,014 2,401 July 1 3 7 Lukannon......... ... 1,133 Northeast Point Reef. 2,038 1,189 6 3,623 756 1,040 1,940 3,623 8 r/pkannon - 756 18 Zoltoi 1,040 21 Euglish Bay. 1,940 22 Ketova. . 801 3,404 1,179 801 22 Northeast Point 3,404 24 Zoltoi ..... .. .. 1,179 26 1,807 1,418 3,845 657 1, 807 28 Tolstoi 1,418 28 Northeast Point....... — 3,845 31 657 Aug. 11 18 Zoltoi 265 205 150 112 53 205 do 150 118 150 24 do Ketova 6 7 118 29 60 193 189 159 12 2 1,117 1,300 5,080 825 501 631 683 1,158 3,142 3,658 2,181 2,132 3,032 679 486 2,987 4 19 93 75 130 133 8 3 71 5 o 8 8 10 10 9 5 30 60 Sept. 4 11 Lukannon............... 193 Zoltoi 178 105 77 130 1,250 1,308 5, 083 896 506 633 683 1,158 3,150 3,666 2,181 178 18 Ketova.................. 105 26 ..do 29 Tolstoi.............. 130 Oct. 2 9 10 Ketova Halfway Point 1,250 1,308 5,083 13 Tolstoi.................. 896 14 Reef , 506 16 633 17 683 17 Reef 1,158 19 Tolstoi 3,150 21 English Bay....... 3,666 21 Northeast Point 2,181 25 do 2,142 8,042 679 495 2,992 30 2.142 27 do 3,042 28 28 .....do do 679 495 30 Tolstoi 2.992 31 English Bay 30 Nov. 7 Reef. .". 729 647 708 644 21 3 729 Dec. 19 do do Total 3,877 647 3,877 a. R77 2. SU1 2, 290 SI 7K RflK 74, 628 957 81 803 1 June 4 6 8 9 13 15 17 20 22 24 28 July 1 3 5 8 10 12 14 15 18 20 21 23 25 27 28 30 31 Southwest Bay Starry Ateel Southwest Bay Northern. Southwest Bay Northeast. Starry Ateel Southwest Bay Northeast Starry Ateel Northern Southwest Bay Starry Ateel Southwest Bay ... Northern do Southwest Bay.. Northern do Southwest Bay... Northern Southwest Bay .. Northern do Starry Ateel Soutliwest Bay ... Northern Taken in October Pups for food Total. TOTALS FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS Island. Seals killed for natives' food. j r. t t .,, j « „1r. , Total of bachelors ftaSe££s killed, accepted,and lor lessees. rejected. Grand total killed ruPs- lors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 1,008 for all purposes. St. Paul St. George 3,877 2,090 2,341 237 2,290 237 51 75, 585 18, 830 74, 628 18, 830 957 77, 926 19, 067 76, 918 19, 067 81, 803 21,157 Total 5,967 2,578 1 2, 527 51 94, 415 93,458 957 1 96,993 1 95,985 1,008 102, 960 368 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1873. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. May 11 3 14 24 June 1 3 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 19 20 21 22 24 27 28 29 July 1 5 6 9 12 13 16 17 19 22 24 25 30 Aug. 1 6 9 13 17 20 29 Sept. 7 12 Oct. 20 3 3 10 21 29 Nov. 29 30 30 Dec. 5 6 Nov.... Rookery. Northeast Point. Reef do do Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Tolstoi Reef.... Tolstoi and English Bay Southwest Bay Zoltoi and Reef Tolstoi and English Bay do Reef and Northeast Point | Zoltoi English Bay. Reef Lukannon Northeast Point and Ketova Reef and Zoltoi English Bay Tolstoi and Northeast Point Ketova and Lukannon .. Zoltoi Bache- SJ*8 S^ns 1 aO* It3- lor8, cepted. jected. Bache lors. I Skins accepted. o 227 455 English Bay Zoltoi and Northeast Point English Bay Zoltoi and Lukannon English Bay Zoltoi Halfway Point English Bay, Lukannon, and Northeast Point.. Zoltoi English Bay Zoltoi do Northeast Point Zoltoi Northeast Point Tolstoi Northeast Point Zoltoi Lukannon Zoltoi do do English Bay Zoltoi do Ketova Zoltoi, Reef, and Lukannon Tolstoi Northeast Point do •. Reef Zoltoi 10 119 7 90' 3 114 161 99 122 118 93 5 . 227 . 455 . 10 119 7 87 3 112 151 77 23 11 490 127 10 91 17 1,284 1,255 753 395 724 664 1,286 1,280 112 66 426 391 3 2 10 22 99 107 93 490 117 74 29 358 60 6 46 35 759 278 293 209 1,616 662 1,057 1,730 4,714 395 2,828 1,169 1,705 5,547 910 4,618 6,427 1,151 1,841 3,265 6,765 3,139 2,071 2, 329 1,116 1,664 7,388 1,384 2,080 638 34 1 759 278 293 209 607 662 1,048 1,730 4,705 388 2,826 1,166 1.7C2 5,538 910 4,615 6,424 1,116 1,839 3,259 6,757 3,135 2,060 2, 319 1,113 1,658 7,383 1,369 2, 070 628 10 Skins rejected. 121 Total. 5,121 6,916 j 5,365 1, 551 69,782 69, 576 3 35 2 6 4 11 10 3 6 5 15 10 10 24 Total killed for all purposes. 5 227 455 759 278 293 209 1,616 662 1,057 1,730 4,714 395 2,828 1,169 1,705 5,547 910 4, 618 6,427 1,151 1,841 3,265 6,765 3,139 2,071 2,329 1,116 1,664 7,388 1,384 2,080 638 34 10 119 7 90 3 114 161 99 122 118 93 490 127 91 1,284 753 724 1,286 112 426 5,121 206 81,819 3 5 8 10 11 11 12 12 15 15 17 19 19 19 22 22 22 24 24 25 25 27 28 29 29 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 6 7 9 9 10 11 12 14 15 15 17 18 19 20 22 22 23 25 25 25 27 27 27 27 Southwest Bay. North. East Southwest Bay. North. Starry Ateel Southwest Bay. East Starry Ateel North. East North Starry Ateel Southwest Bay. East North Starry Ateel Southwest Bay. East Starry Ateel North. Starry Ateel North Starry Ateel Southwest Bay. East North. Starry Ateel Southwest Bay East Starry Ateel Southwest Bay North. East Starry Ateel North. East Southwest Bay. North. East Starry Ateel North East Starry Ateel Southwest Bay East Starry Ateel North East Starry Ateel East North East North Starry Ateel Southwest Bay Killed for natives' food. Total 2,000 ,000 25,000 25,000 TOTALS EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors 1 killed, accepted, Grand and rejected. *?., , killed Pups. Bache. lors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected- Bachelors. Skins , accepted. ai--,,,, 1 for all Skins pt,r. jected. P°8es- St. Paul 5,121 St. Gfloro-ft 2. 000 6,916 5,365 1,551 69, 782 25, 000 69, 576 206 76, 698 25 000 25 000 74, 941 25. 000 1,757 81,819 ' 27.000 Total 7,121 6.916 5,365 1,551 94,782 94,576 1 206 Il01,698 1 99,941 1, 757 1 108,819 B. Doc, 92- «-** 370 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1873. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. May 23 23 June 3 4 6 10 11 13 13 16 16 16 18 21 21 23 24 26 27 27 30 July 1 o 3 5 8 9 9 14 15 16 17 18 19 19 21 22 23 24 Aug. 4 13 20 20 Sept. 1 9 29 30 8 16 21 Oct. Nov. Dec. 0 30 Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. -Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Reef Sonthwest Bay I Reef and Tolstoi Southwest Bay I Reef and Tolstoi Southwest Bay and English Bay Reef and Zoltoi Tolstoi and English Bay. Northeast Point ! Tolstoi j Lukannon j Reef Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. Bachelors. 193 104 96 Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Total killed for all purposes. SoutbwestBay and English Bay Zoltoi ../ Northeast Point Tolstoi and English Bay. English Bay Reef and Tolstoi... Zoltoi and Lukannon Northeast Point Tolstoi Lukannon and Zoltoi Tolstoi Zoltoi .....do Zoltoi and Tolstoi do Northeast Point Tolstoi Zoltoi do English Bay Zoltoi Lukannon, Ketova, and Zoltoi Northeast Point English Bay Lukannon and Ketova.. do Northeast Point Zoltoi do do Lukannon Zoltoi do ...;.do Southwest Bay Ketova 803 703 920 2,597 1,666 2,029 3,243 1,770 677 465 3,946 652 3,412 1,803 3,159 2,210 1, 147 5,020 1,848 2, 337 1,938 2,212 710 1,510 2,494 6,278 925 1,248 1,547 1,561 929 1,047 5,696 754 1,979 446 2,727 796 700 916 2,445 1,656 2,016 3,242 1,758 663 455 3,910 650 3,410 1,787 3,137 2.191 1,142 5,020 1,838 2,322 1,927 2,194 694 1,502 2,485 6,276 917 1,228 540 353 925 1, lf-i 1,044 5,696 752 1,926 446 oo Zoltoi For natives' food Reef Garbotch........ 179 168 95 155 119 109 122 10 104 80 154 173 144 65 72 47 25 6 24 30 83 72 84 122 10 104 78 145 5,489 231 267 135 242 96 25 7 3 4 152 10 13 1 12 14 10 36 2 2 16 22 19 5 10 15 11 18 16 8 9 2 8 20 7 8 4 53 193 104 803 703 920 2,597 1,666 2,029 3,243 1,770 677 465 3,946 652 3,412 1,803 3,159 2,210 I, 147 5,020 1,848 2,337 1,938 2,212 710 1,510 2,494 6,278 925 1,248 1,547 1,561 929 1 047 696 754 979 440 727 179 168 95 155 119 109 122 10 104 80 151 489 231 267 i cuai. 5,489 2, 090 1,198 892 74,408 73,884 524 81,987 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 371 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1873. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. June 4 5 North. 198 240 285 190 275 300 521 378 174 313 596 870 180 499 195 241 301 493 310 168 332 564 592 517 743 616 690 974 602 474 345 337 480 1,097 913 1,359 1,810 513 889 1,710 600 588 1,528 198 240 285 190 198 Starry Ateel....... 240 6 Southwest Bay. - 285 g East and Starry Ateel 190 10 Southwest Bay ... 275 300 275 12 North 300 13 521 378 174 313 521 16 \ North and Starry Ateel.. 378 17 174 19 [East 313 21 \ Starry Ateel and North.. 596 870 596 21 ; Southwest Bay 870 23 \ East 180 499 195 241 301 493 310 168 332 564 592 180 24 499 25 i Starry Ateel and North.. 195 26 East 241 27 Southwest Bay 301 28 Starry Ateel and North.. 493 30 Southwest Bay 310 30 East 168 July 2 Starry Ateel 332 3 Southwest Bay 564 4 East 592 5 Starry Ateel 517 1 743 616 690 974 517 8 Southwest Bay 743 8 East 616 9 Starry Ateel and North. .•. 690 11 East 1 974 11 Southwest Bay 602 474 345 337 480 1,097 913 1,359 1,810 513 889 1,710 600 588 602 12 Starry Ateel and North.. 474 13 East 345 14 Southwest Bay 337 16 Starry Ateel and North.. 480 17 East 1,097 18 Southwest Bay 913 20 Starry Ateel and North.. 1,359 21 East ::::.... 1,810 23 Southwest Bay 513 23 Starry Ateel .* 889 25 East 1,710 26 Southwest Bay 600 28 Starry Ateel 588 28 East 1,528 1,528 Pups killed for food Total * 2,190 2,190 I | 2,190 25, 000 25.000 1 27.190 1 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Grand total killed Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. St. Paul 5,489 St.Gftortrfl 2.190 2,090 1,198 892 74,408 25, 000 73, 884 25 000 524 76,498 2fi OOn 75,082 1,416 25,000 81, 987 27 190 Total 7,679 2,090 1,198 892 99,408 98,884 1 524 101,498 100,082 1, 416 1 1 1 109,177 372 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1874. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins ac- • copted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. for all purposes. - Apr. 27 May 6 19 14 400 340 301 217 400 333 300 216 14 10 404 Reef . 7 1 1 1 340 25 ..do . 301 30 .l...do | 217 2,395 538 556 4,062 639 1, 898 634 540 1,982 622 4, 737 891 2,689 474 3,419 3,033 7,217 3,982 3,270 1,921 1,321 8,172 1,212 2,209 2,621 1,538 538 3,014 1,564 2,702 1,987 1,580 432 3,367 1,664 2,169 475 1,099 668 533 4,004 2,391 4 538 556 4,062 ! 638 1 2,395 3 Reef 538 4 Tolstoi and English Bay. Northeast Point 556 6 4,062 g • 639 9 Southwest Bay and hng- lishBay.. 1.897 634 540 1.982 1 1,898 10 11 13 Tolstoi Southwest Bay and Eng- 634 540 1,982 13 13 15 Tolstoi Reef and Zoltoi 620 1 2 4,724 13 889 2 2,689 474 622 4,737 891 17 English Bay and Tolstoi. Zoltoi 2,689 17 474 19 Southwest and English 3.415 4 3,419 20 3,033 7.212 5 3,033 20 Northeast Point 7,217 23 Zoltoi and Lukannon. 3,977 3,268 1,913 1.321 5 2 8 3,982 25 English Bay 3,270 26 Reef and Zoltoi 1,921 27 Ketova and Lukannon .. 1,321 27 Northeast Point 8,129 43 1,212 2.208 1 8,172 30 Zoltoi and Tolstoi 1,212 July 1 English Bay and Tolstoi. Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 2,209 3 2,616 1,537 536 5 1 2 2,621 3 Tolstoi 1,538 4 Lukannon 538 4 Zoltoi . 3,014 1,564 2,702 1,987 1,580 432 3, 367 1.664 3,014 6 English Bay 1,564 8 English Bay and Tolstoi. Zoltoi ". 2,702 g 1,987 9 Tolstoi and Lukannon 1,580 10 Zoltoi 432 10 Northeast Point 3,367 13 Tolstoi and Lukannon 1,664 14 15 English Bay. Zoltoi 1 1 2,169 475 1,094 668 527 4,004 5 6 2,169 475 16 Lukannon and Ketova.. 1,099 16 Zoltoi 668 17 Lukannon 533 17 23 Northeast Point Tolstoi 130 167 112 107 131 89 201 107 127 165 112 104 124 74 122 01 3 o 4,004 130 28 Zoltoi 167 Aug. 3 ' do 112 10 do 3 7 15 79 106 55 57 135 57 40 67 107 17 do 131 26 do 89 31 ...do 201 Sept. 7 do 197 16 do 163 108 174 117 179 44 175 118 236 196 1,541 T 1,474 163 do do L74 Oct. 1 179 19 Reef I 175 29 do 236 Nov. - Dec. 17 Pups for natives........ Reef. 4,897 4,897 1,541 Total 4.897 4,874 4,225 649 1 j 88,368 j 88, 258 110 98,139 1 374 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1875. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. Jan. 1 Feb. 10 16 17 May 7 10 14 18 24 31 June 1 July Aug;, Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Bachelors. 1 5 7 7 7 10 12 12 14 16 16 17 18 19 19 22 22 24 25 26 26 28 30 2 3 6 8 9 10 10 13 14 15 16 16 17 22 28 4 14 21 2 12 21 30 12 5 17 29 2 4 Northeast Point do do do Southwest Bay Northeast Point do Reef do do English Bay and Southwest Bay Tolstoi Zoltoi and Tolstoi Zoltoi and Reef Southwest Bay Northeast Point English Bay, Southwest Bay, Tolstoi Reef and Zoltoi j 25 6 9 16 498 9 20 143 657 492 Skins accepted. 25 6 9 16 489 9 20 143 656 492 Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. 3 1,201 203 692 . 711 1,560 27 1,456 631 Northeast Point j I | I I 4, 065 Tolstoi and English Bay. 739 Halfway Point I 1 2,115 Tolstoi and Reef 707 Lukannon I I 452 Southwest Bay, English Bay Zoltoi Northeast Point Tolstoi I. Zoltoi I English Bay Lukannon •Northeast Point I I I 7, Southwest Bay 4,047 Reef . 1 527 Zoltoi'andEngYishBay'.l !!!!!!!!!!!!!]!!!".!!""!!!!" 3)927 Lukannon, Ketova, Zoltoi 2,534 Northeast Point 5,024 Zoltoi and Lukannon 1, 248 English Bay 3, 370 Tolstoi and English Bay. I 2,093 303 1,363 5,252 1,830 1,150 3,009 262 7,349 Lukannon and Ketova Northeast Point , Zoltoi Tolstoi and English Bay. Lukannon and Ketova .. English Bay Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi do do.. Ketova*. Zoltoi do do do do do do Tolstoi Southwest Bay Pups killed for food Northeast Point Tolstoi Total. 1,125 5,937 1,565 1,810 748 2,700 1,205 7,439 557 159 235 192 159 210 143 146 153 115 172 990 24 159 235 191 159 101 78 41 63 55 155 1,949 24 1,199 203 692 710 1,560 27 1,456 631 4,052 739 2,115 707 452 3,300 1,363 5,252 1,830 1,149 3,007 262 7,323 4,036 1,526 3,925 2,534 5,020 1,248 3,365 2,093 1,125 5,937 1,565 1,810 746 2,700 1,205 7,439 557 Skins rejected. Total killed for all purposes. 1 109 65 105 90 60 17 41 3,745 15 694 15 694 13 26 11 1 2 25 6 9 16 498 9 20 143 657 492 1,201 203 692 711 1,560 27 1,456 631 4,065 739 2,115 707 452 3,303 1,363 5, 252 1,830 1,150 3,009 262 7,349 4,047 1,527 3,927 2,534 5,024 1,248 3,370 2,093 1,125 5,937 1,565 1,810 748 2,700 1,205 7,439 557 159 235 192 159 210 143 146 153 115 172 1,990 24 3,745 15 694 3,745 6, 282 784 498 84,933 84,860 94, 960 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 375 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1875. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. June 1 Starry Ateel and North.. 302 256 177 307 358 334 1,294 666 540 692 1,412 717 1,019 1,073 676 177 302 302 9 do i 256 177 307 358 334 1, 294 666 540 692 1,412 717 1,019 1,073 676 177 256 11 East 177 14 Starry Ateel and North.. .. • 307 16 East 358 18 Starry Ateel and North.. 334 19 Southwest Bay 1,294 23 East 666 24 Starry Ateel and North.. 540 28 East 692 30 Starry Ateel and North.. 1,412 July 5 East 717 rr 1 Starry Ateel and North.. 1,019 12 East 1,073 14 North 676 17 do ..... 177 Killed for food 1,500 1,500 Total i 1,500 10, 000 10.000 L. 11, 500 TOTAL EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. G-EORG-E ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for the lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 498 Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 3,745 1,500 6,282 5,784 84,933 10,000 84,860 10, 000 73 91,215 10, 000 90,644 10, 000 571 94, 960 11,500 Total 5,245 6,282 5,784 498 1 94,933 94,860 j 73 101, 215 100,644 571 106,460 376 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1876. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. for all purposes. Jan. 12 May 23 31 Tolstoi 914 223 189 897 223 288 17 914 223 Reef 1 189 June .3 6 836 673 468 566 184 1,585 868 811 1,509 2,641 3,120 2,942 3,161 480 10, 696 862 3,017 1,442 11,495 2,644 2,846 2,267 2,126 8,116 2,039 1,974 53 1,040 3,677 836 673 468 566 183 1,585 868 811 1,509 2,641 3,120 2.942 3,161 480 10, 696 862 1 836 Reef and Zoltoi . 673 7 Tolstoi . 468 g 566 10 Zoltoi 184 11 Northeast Point .. — 1,585 13 Zoltoi 868 14 Halfway Point 811 15 Tolstoi, Zoltoi, reef 1,509 17 2,641 17 Northeast Point 3,120 20 Zoltoi 2,942 21 Tolstoi 3,161 22 Zoltoi 480 24 English Bay and North- 10,696 26 Zoltoi 862 28 English Hill 3,017 1.442 3,017 29 Zoltoi 1,442 July 1 4 5 Tolstoi and Northeast Point 11, 495 2,644 2.846 11, 495 2 644 do... 2,846 7 English Bay 2,267 2,126 8,116 2, 039 1,974 53 1,040 3,677 2,267 8 Lukannon 2,126 8 10 Northeast Point Zoltoi 8,116 2,039 13 English Hill 1,974 22 Zoltoi 53 29 do 1,040 Au£. 1 Lukannon and Zoltoi . 3,677 10 Zoltoi Ketova do Zoltoi 120 134 215 179 130 133 146 133 136 120 163 636 665 120 129 207 163 50 9 376 127 120 17 5 8 16 80 124 134 23 215 Sept. 1 11 179 Ketova. 130 19 Zoltoi 133 28 do 146 133 136 120 163 260 538 146 Oct. 6 do 133 14 do.. 136 18 1 do 120 31 Tolstoi 163 Nov. 24 Southwest Bay 636 24 do 1 Pups killed for food Tolstoi 3,958 665 3,958 Dec. 15 825 575 250 825 Total 3,958 5,061 3,064 I 1 fl97 1 Id. 138 7<1. 137 1 1 83,157 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. June 1 North 1 1 1 415 415 372 388 L 599 784 581 2,067 1,168 1,023 1,259 1,027 1 317 415 8 Starry Ateel and North.. 372 372 12 East . 388 14 Southwest Bay 599 599 15 Starry Ateel and North.- 784 784 22 East 581 581 25 Starry Ateel and North.. 2,067 2,067 27 East | 1,168 1 168 29 Starry Ateel and North.. 1,023 1,023 July 3 East"! 1, 259 1 259 6 7 Starry Ateel East ! 1,027 317 1,027 317 Pups for food Total 1, 500 1,500 1,500 1 10,000 10,000 1 11, 500 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 377 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1876. TOTAL EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed Island. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- . re- cepted. Ijected. 1 | Total Bach- skins elors. accepted. Total skins rejected. for all purposes. St. Paul 3,958 1,500 5,061 3,064 1,997 74,138 10, 000 74,137 10,000 1 79,199 | 77,201 10, 000 10, 000 1,998 83,157 11, 500 Total 5,458 5,061 3,064 1,997 84,138 84,137 1 89,199 87,201 1,998 94,657 1877. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 22 June 4 Reef 342 QOO 10 342 do 548 799 1,705 449 1,095 1,647 1,507 1,094 1, 013 1,458 1,631 1,172 1,224 5,965 1,050 1,250 430 2,020 1,401 2,166 1,917 6,449 1,849 1,534 2,522 2,275 1,113 5,660 495 2,086 2,172 1,066 546 796 1,696 446 1,092 1 647 2 3 9 3 3 548 5 Southwest Bay and English Bav... 799 9 .do. 1,705 12 Reef 449 13 Halfway Point ........ 1,095 14 English Bay and Southwest Bay. .. 1,647 15 Tolstoi 1,506 1 1,092 2 1,011 2 1,458 1,631 1,172 1,224 5,965 1,050 1,250 430 2,020 ; 1,396 5 2,166 1, 917 6,449 1,849 1,534 2, 522 2,275 1,113 ' 5,660 495 2,086 2,172 1,066 1,507 16 Zoltoi ;. 1,094 18 do 1,013 19 Tolstoi 1,458 20 Southwest Bay 1,631 21 Lukannon. 1.172 22 Halfway Point 1,224 23 Northeast Point 5 965 23 Tolstoi 1,050 25 Zoltoi 1,250 26 Halfway Point 430 27 Tolstoi 2,020 28 Zoltoi and Lukannon . , 1,401 29 English Bay 2,166 30 Tolstoi 1 917 30 July 1 3 Northeast Point 6 449 Zoltoi 1,849 Tolstoi and Lukannon .. 1,534 4 Tolstoi and English Bay. Lukannon and Ketova .. 2.522 6 2,275 7 Zoltoi 1 113 7 Northeast Point 5,660 9 Zoltoi 495 10 Tolstoi 2 086 10 Northeast Point 2.172 14 Zoltoi 1,066 22 do 75 165 172 199 74 142 168 176 108 52 — 1 23 4 23 92 144 171 163 171 157 146 75 Aug. 6 do 11 do :::::::::::::::: 165 i 172 20 do 199 30 Sept. 12 21 29 Oct. 6 16 24 Nov. 7 do 200 20Q do 196 171 163 171 157 146 196 do 171 do 163 do 171 do 157 do 146 Zoltai and Ketova 2,715 2,715 9 Zoltoi and Lukannon Zoltoi and Reef 1,535 757 1,535 12 | 757 19 Tolstoi 222 1,259 201 9.1 222 27 do 1,241 339 20 18 44 1 259 29 do 383 20 383 Dec. 20 20 Total 5,007 4,041 2,853 1,188 1 58,762 1 58,732 l 30 67 810 378 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables shoioing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1877. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals 1 f dlled for skins >r lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. Bachelors. 198 Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. June 1 North 198 702 578 1,389 1,154 838 871 552 1,860 1,589 1,669 2,164 300 880 198 12 do 702 578 1,389 1,154 702 13 East: 578 14 Southwest Bay 1,389 18 North and Starry Ateel. 1,154 20 East '. — 838 871 552 1,860 1,589 1,669 2,164 300 880 838 22 North 871 23 East.. 552 26 North and Starry Ateel. 1,860 29 East.. 1,589 July 3 North and Starry Ateel. 1,669 6 East 2.164 9 North ■" 300 10 East.. 880 KiNft<! for food 256 256 256 do Total 1,500 1,500 1,500 256 1 256 14.744 14,744 16, 500 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 5,007 1,500 4,041 256 2,853 256 1,188 58, 762 14, 744 58,732 30 14.744 62,803 15,000 61, 585 15, 000 1,218 67,810 16, 500 Total , 6,507 4.297 3,109 1,188 73, 506 73,476 1 30 1 77,803 76,585 1,218 84,310 1878. ST, PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 19 206 703 205 703 1 206 30 South west Bay 703 June 8 Reef 857 2,409 556 1,099 887 1,283 1,501 2,278 998 1,731 1,457 1,309 5,900 1,473 1,552 857 2,407 556 1,098 887 1,282 1,501 2,271 992 1,731 1,457 1,309 5,900 1,473 1,552 2 1 1 7 6 857 11 2,409 556 12 Reef aud Zoltoi 13 14 Southwest Bay and Eng- Tolstoi 1,099 887 15 Ketova Reef, Zoltoi 1,283 17 Tolstoi 1,501 18 Southwest Bay and English Bay 2,278 19 Lukannon, Ketova, Zoltoi 998 20 Tolstoi 1,731 21 Southwest Bay and English Bay....' 1,457 22 Zoltoi, Lukannon, Ketova 1,309 22 Northeast Point 5,900 24 Halfway Point 1,473 25 Tolstoi 1,552 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 379 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1878. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. for all purposes. June 26 Zoltoi, Ketova, Lukan- 1,896 2,672 1,661 1,131 6, 375 2,237 3,903 791 2,010 2,622 1,036 7,231 1,369 916 2,288 3,322 3,600 2,101 1,986 2,337 1,549 272 1,895 2.666 1 6 1,896 27 2,672 28 1.661 1,661 29 Tolstoi.. 1,130 6.375 i 1,131 29 6,375 July 1 2,237 3,903 791 2,010 2.622 2,237 2 3,903 3 791 4 Zoltoi 2,010 5 Tolstoi. 2,622 6 1,036 7,231 1.369 1,036 6 7,231 8 Halfway Point, Lukan- 1,369 9 Zoltoi 916 2,288 3.322 916 10 . do . 2,288 10 Northeast Point.. 3,322 12 Tolstoi and Middle Hill. 3,600 2,101 1,986 2,337 1,549 272 3,600 13 2,101 16 MiddleHill 1, 986 17 Zoltoi 2,337 18 do 1,549 18 . 272 30 Zoltoi 404 294 173 211 156 144 148 149 404 294 404 Aug. 10 22 ..do . 294 . do . 173 211 156 144 148 149 173 Sept. 2 14 Zoltoi 211 do . 156 24 Lukannon 144 Oct. 2 do 148 10 ..do . 149 Nov. 1 4 ..do ... 1,380 2,000 1,255 571 1,380 ..do . 2,000 6 Reef 1,255 8 do 571 26 Tolstoi and Reef 1,144 853 133 1,128 765 133 16 88 1,144 28 do 853 Aug. to Dec. Northeast Point (watchmen) 133 Total 5,206 4,718 3,632 1,086 78, 595 78, 570 25 88, 519 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. June 10 North 325 1,074 858 717 570 324 851 517 325 1,074 858 717 570 324 851 517 325 14 Southwest Bay 1,074 17 North and Starry Ateel East .' 858 19 Southwest Bay 717 22 North and Starry Ateel. East 570 25 324 27 Southwest Bay 851 28 do 517 Killed for food to date... 405 405 405 July 1 2 East 644 930 1,433 793 1,333 328 1.025 1,892 1,290 1,577 1,291 644 930 1,433 793 1,333 328 1,025 1,892 1,290 1,577 1,291 644 North and Starry Ateel. 930 4 Southwest Bav 1 433 8 East 793 10 North and Starry Ateel. Southwest Bay 1,333 12 328 13 do 1 025 15 East 1,892 17 East and north 1,290 19 North and Starry Ateel. 1 577 21 East 1 291 21 Killed for food to May 19,1879 1,127 811 316 1 197 do 1,500 1,500 Total 1,500 1,532 1,216 316 17,772 17,772 9n snj. ■" vl vv * 380 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1878. TOTAL EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed Island. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Total skins accepted. Total skins rejected. 1,111 316 for all purposes. St. Paul St. George 5,206 1,500 4,718 1,532 3,632 1,216 1,086 316 78,595 17, 772 78,570 17, 772 25 83, 313 19, 304 82, 202 18,988 88,519 20,804 Total 6,706 6,250 4,848 1,402 96,367 96, 342 25 102, 617 101,190 1,427 109,323 1 1879. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. May 19 26 June 2 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 16 17 18 19 20 23 24 25 26 27 28 23 24 25 26 27 30 1 July 3 4 5 June 30 1 2 3 Rookery. Southwest and English bays Reef do English, Southwest Bay, and Tolstoi Reef..... Halfway Point Southwest and English bays Tolstoi Reef, Zoltoi, and Ketova. Southwest Bay and Middle Hill Halfway Point Southwest Bay and Middle Hill Reef, Ketova, and Zoltoi. Southwest Bay and English Bay Tolstoi and Middle Hill. Reef, Ketova, Lukannon Northeast Point do do do do Tolstoi and Middle Hill. Southwest Bay and Eng- glish.Bay Reef, Zoltoi, Ketova Tolstoi, Middle Hill, English Bay, and Zoltoi Halfway Point Ketova, Reef, Lukannon, Zoltoi Northeast Point do do do do Tolstoi and MiddleHill. English Bay Lukannon and Zoltoi Zoltoi and Middle Hill.. English Bay Lukannon and Ketova.. Northeast Point do do do : Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Bachelors. 278 525 Skins accepted. 274 518 Skins rejected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. Skins accepted. 162 1,627 434 1,188 1,462 498 730 997 522 1, 331 914 1,110 1,176 1,053 1,528 966 1,860 1,745 1,289 2, 300 1,822 1,995 1,542 1,940 1,206 1,550 1,414 1,339 1,074 1,665 2,617 2,148 1,885 1,932 2,106 1,168 2,524 1,628 866 1,998 162 1,627 434 1,188 1,462 498 730 997 522 1.331 914 1,110 1,176 1,053 1,528 966 1,860 1,745 1,289 2,300 1,822 1,995 1,542 1,940 1,206 1,550 1,414 1,339 1,074 1,665 2,617 2,148 1,885 1,932 2,106 1,168 2,524 1,628 866 1,988 Skins rejected. Total killed for all purposes. 278 525 162 1,627 434 1,188 1,462 498 730 997 522 1,331 914 1,110 1,176 1,053 1,528 966 1,860 1,745 1,289 2,300 1,822 1,995 1,542 1,940 1,206 1,550 1,414 1,339 1,074 1,665 2,617 2,148 1,885 1,932 2,106 1,168 2,524 1,628 866 1,988 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 381 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1879. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Date. July 4 7 Oct. Dec. Rookery. Northeast Point Zoltoi and Middle Hill... Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon Zoltoi and Ketova do Northeast Point do do do Zoltoi Zoltoi and Ketova Middle Hill, Lukannon, and Tolstoi do Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi do do Specimens Zoltoi Southwest Bay Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi Halfway Point Southwest Bay Northeast Point Zoltoi Southwest Bay Northeast Point.... Ketova Lukannon do do Ketova do Lukannon do Garbotch do do Reef do Garbotch Reef Northeast Point Southwest Bay Total Seals killed for natives' food. r»p»- B£Se- 544 335 999 107 1,153 31 1,466 79 356 Skins accepted. 260 172 1,206 1,308 62 Skins rejected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 5, 071 5, 970 3, 898 2,072 2,077 1,528 1,920 983 948 2.418 1,264 1,519 398 2, 652 1,233 2,882 157 Skins accepted. 2,077 1,528 1,920 983 948 2,418 1,264 1,519 398 2, 652 1,233 2,882 157 Skins rejected. 77,280 77, 280 Total killed for all purposes. 2,077 1,528 1,920 983 948 2,418 1,264 1,519 398 2,652 1,233 88,221 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. June 3 North East Southwest Bay Starry Ateel Southwest Bay East Southwest Bay Starry Ateel and North. East Southwest Bay North and Starry Ateel- Southwest Bay East Southwest Bay do 69 445 5 105 413 372 ..: 445 498 4 755 473 430 4 515 574 2 882 6 522 2 286 j 1 382 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1879. ST. GEORGE ISLAND—Continued. Date. Rookery. June 27 30 July 3 3 4 5 7 8 14 16 16 24 28 6 19 1 23 2 15 3 Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Bachelors. Skins ac- Skins re- cepted. jected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. North and Starry Ateel I I I | 1,179 East 1,595 Northand Starry Ateel. 1,414 Southwest Bay 849 do 351 North 535 East I 1,775 Northand Starry Ateel. 1,263 East 1,840 North ! 863 Southwest Bay I I I I 1,369 ....do North. do. do do do do do do do Killed for food Southwest Bay and Starry Ateel 1,506 Skins accepted. 1,176 1,584 1,412 849 351 535 1,738 1,261 1,836 863 1,369 63 48 68 54 47 58 48 18 318 62 48 68 54 47 58 48 Skins rejected. 18 315 113 113 Total 1,506 843 564 279 19,841 19, 758 3 11 2 37 2 4 83 Total killed for all purposes. 1,179 1,595 1,414 849 351 535 1,775 1,263 1,840 863 1,369 8 63 48 68 54 47 58 48 18 318 1,506 113 22,190 TOTAL EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals 'killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed,accepted, and rejected. Total killed Island. Pups. ' lev Bach- S^ns elor8- cepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Total skins accepted. Total skins rejected. for all purposes. St. Paul St. George 5,071 1,506 5,970 3,898 843 564 2,072 279 77,280 19,841 77,280 19,758 83 83, 250 20,684 81,178 20, 322 2,072 362 88,321 22,190 Total 6,577 6,813 4,462 1 2,351 97,721 97,038 83 1 103, 934 101,500 1 2,434 110,511 1880. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 14 22 Southwest Bay 209 206 225 19 3 209 Reef Northeast Point 225 19 225 22 19 Reef 216 216 1,497 1,496 926 926 889 884 763 762 1,204 | 1,204 1 5 1 216 g Southwest Bay .... 1,497 9 Reef. 926 11 English Bay and Tolstoi. 889 12 Southwest Bay and Eng- 763 14 1,204. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 383 Table showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1880. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives ' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. Reef and Zoltoi 765 990 703 1,619 802 5,279 1,459 1,035 1,702 1,437 2,582 1,062 6,202 1,516 1,743 2,297 1,622 2,374 1,386 7,167 789 651 1,577 1,654 2 221 1,428 1,221 7,073 817 1, 763 2,640 1,834 2,461 534 763 990 703 1,618 801 5,277 1,459 1,035 1,701 1,437 2,580 1,062 6,201 1,514 1,743 2,297 1,621 2,373 1,386 7,167 789 651 1,577 1,654 2,218 1,426 1,221 7,073 817 1,763 2,638 1,834 2,461 534 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 1 3 2 2 765 16 Zapadnie and English Bay 990 17 Ketova, Zoltoi, and Reef. Tolstoi and English Bay. English Bay and Middle Hill 703 18 1,619 19 802 14V 19/ 21 22 23 24 Northeast Point 5,279 Tolstoi and Middle Hill Reef, Zoltoi, and Ketova English Bay and Middle Hill 1,459 1,035 1,702 1,437 25 2,582 26 Ketova, Zoltoi, and Reef Northeast Point ■■* 1,062 211 26/ 28 6,202 Halfway Point 1,516 29 Ketova, Lukannon, and Zoltoi 1,743 30 Tolstoi and Middle Hill do 2,297 July 1 2 1,622 English Bay and Middle Hill 2,374 3 Ketova, Zoltoi, and Reef Northeast Point 1,386 3 7,167 5 Halfwav Point 789 5 Lukannon and Ketova.. 651 6 Tolstoi 1,577 7 Tolstoi and Lukannon... 1,654 8 Zoltoi, Reef, Lukannon, and Ketova 2,221 1,428 9 Tolstoi. Lukannon, and MiddleHill 10 Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon 1,221 tol Northeast Point 7,073 10j 12 Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon 817 13 Tolstoi and English Bay Reef, Zoltoi, Lukannon, and Ketova 1,763 14 2,640 15 English Bay 1,834 16 Middle Hill and Lukannon 2,461 17 Zoltoi 534 28 Northeast Point 43 228 218 253 160 189 195 239 227 260 193 43 228 218 235 116 60 43 30 Halfway Point 228 31 218 Aug. 11 19 do 18 44 189 195- 239 227 260 133 253 do 160 28 do 189 Sept. 8 do 195 18 do 239 30 do 227 Oct. 12 Lukannon 260 25 English Bay 193 Nov.2,3/ 5,6\ Lukannon, Reef, and Ke- 4,410 3 4,410 1,176 Dec. 6,8 Reef South west Bay 1,173 13 82 .270 270 1,123 13 82 217 263 50 9 ...... 13 24 Northeast Point 82 Nov. 11 MiddleHill 53 270 29 7 270 Total 4,413 1 4,466 1 3,048 1.418 1 1 75,900 1 1 75, 872 1 28 j 84, 779 384 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Table showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1880. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins -o v„ "r6 Bache- jected. lor8- Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 18 North 14 23 14 23 14 26 Starry Ateel 23 ft2 North 82 33R 81 333 1 9 East 5 338 12 14 North and Starry Atoel. East 564 562 352 351 738 734 2 564 1 352 15 Southwest Bay 4 738 17 ..do 254 254 559 557 254 17 North and Starry Ateel. East ...,. 2 559 19 599 596 223 223 1,183 1,182 518 518 814 811 839 833 1,322 1,320 1,770 1,764 846 843 808 808 392 392 956 954 961 961 515 515 1,483 1,481 1, 814 1 1, 810 949 1 947 28 3 599 19 21 22 23 North and Starry Ateel. Southwest Bay East 223 1 1,183 518 8 814 25 25 28 Southwest Bay North and Starry Ateel. East 6 839 2 1,322 6 1,770 29 Southwest Bay.. . 3 846 30 July 1 Starry Ateel North 1 808 1 392 2 2 956 2 Southwest Bay 961 5 6 East 515 2 1,483 4 1,814 9 East 2 949 During the season there perished on the drives. 28 28 16 Zapadnie.. . .. 72 7 8 60 51 226 40 35 47 62 1 72 7 8 60 51 215 27 31 1 72 7 8 60 51 226 40 17 20 do North do North and East North 28 Aug. 6 11 11 13 Sept. 1 2 Zapadnie ..... .. 4 i _ I 35 27 North do do ..do . 500 765 30 35 47 62 47 62 501 765 30 10 65 16 Oct. 5 28 Nov. 1 9 Zapadnie....... 10 30 16 10 30 16 18 do East Zapadnie.. ............ Dec. 1 1 Total 1,330 702 565 137 18, 907 18, 830 77 20, 939 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 28 77 Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 4,413 1,330 4,466 702 3,048 565 1,418 137 75,900 18, 907 75,872 18,830 80,366 19,609 78,920 19,395 1,446 214 84,779 20,939 Total 5,743 5,168 3,«3 1,555 95,807 94,702 105 99,975 98,315 1,660 105,718 Jan.1-3 May 4 29 June 6 7 9 10 14 15 17 18 20 21 •23 24 25 27 29 30 July 1 2 4 12 13 14 16 18 19 20 27 18-29 Aug. 5 Halfway Point Tolstoi Zoltoi and Lukannon Tolstoi, Middle Hill Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Northeast Point Reef and Zoltoi Halfway Point, Middle Hill, English Bay, Tolstoi Middle Hill, Lukannon Zoltoi, and Reef Middle Hill, English Bay, Tolstoi, Northeast Point English Bay, Southwest Bay, and Northeast Point Lukannon, Zoltoi, and Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Northeast Point Tolstoi and Lukannon Halfway Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Northeast Point Zoltoi, Ketova, Northeast Point Southwest Bay, English Bay, Northeast ^oint Zoltoi, Tolstoi, Middle Hill, Northeast Point Halfway Point, Northeast Point English Bav, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi Zoltoi, Tolstoi, Lukannon English Bay, Middle Hill English Bay and Southwest Bay. English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon Zoltoi, Ketova(711), North east Point; food (16)... MiddleHill, Tolstoi, Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Tolstoi, Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi H. Doc. 92 386 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc—Continued. 1881. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Date. Aug. 16 17 20 26 29 Sept. 6 17 19 28 Oct. 10 Nov. Dec. 25 5 16 17 21 7 9 Rookery. Zoltoi Northeast Point do Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi Northeast Point Zoltoi Zoltoi (208), Northeast Point (5) Zoltoi (211), Northeast Point (5) Zoltoi, Northeast Point.. Tolstoi MiddleHill Tolstoi MiddleHill Southwest Bay Reef Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Bachelors. Total. 276 10 6 240 7 249 11 205 213 216 227 209 683 494 562 ,022 ,294 Skins accepted. 247 10 6 Skins rejected. Bachelors. 29 180 679 490 461 1,018 1,285 7,538 6, 068 240 7 249 11 205 213 216 227 29 4 4 1 4 9 Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 1,470 76,236 76,169 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Total killed for all purposes. 67 276 10 6 240 7 249 11 205 213 216 227 209 683 494 462 1,022 1,294 83,774 May 21 31 North 32 55 32 55 32 . do 55 June 9 Starry Ateel, East, and North 612 920 498 622 445 1,030 518 553 815 1,119 1,034 1,378 1,182 476 1,356 363 1,310 498 771 1,715 592 1,639 611 916 494 615 445 1,022 515 553 814 1,117 1,031 1,371 1,179 476 1,350 362 1,300 498 769 1,705 590 1,627 1 612 13 ..do.. 4 920 15 4 498 16 Starry Ateel, North, East ..do 7 622 20 445 21 East and Zapadnie...... 8 1,030 23 Starry Ateel, North, 3 518 24 East . 553 27 Starry Ateel and North. East and Zapadnie.. 1 815 28 2 1,119 30 Zapadnie, Starry Ateel, 3 1,034 July 1 4 7 1,378 Starry Ateel and North. 3 1 1,182 6 476 7 East 6 1,356 8 Starry Ateel and North. East 1 363 11 10 1,310 12 Starry Ateel...... ! 498 12 Zapadnie ..... 2 771 14, 15 East 10 1 1,715 14 Zapadnie 2 592 16 East, North, and Starry Ateel 12 1 639 26 North 43 45 57 92 52 52 65 88 43 45 57 91 46 32 43 45 30 do Aujr. 9 do 57 15 . do 1 6 20 65 88 68 50 92 26 . do 52 Sept. 3 13 ..do 52 ..do 65 24 East 88 Oct. 3 North 68 50 68 22 East 50 Nov. 2 North 559 472 559 10 .. do 472 30 113 108 5 113 Total.. 1,031 812 509 303 19,446 19, 360 Rfi 1 9.1.9.80 v" s^. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 387 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1881. TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed Island. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Total skins accepted. Total skins rejected. for all purposes. St. Paul 7,538 812 6,068 509 1,470 303 76,236 19,446 76,169 19,360 67 86 83,774 20,258 82, 226 19,869 1,537 389 83, 774 21, 289 St. George 1,031 Total 1,031 8,350 6,577 1,773 95,682 95,529 153 104,032 102, 095 1,926 105, 063 1883. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. Jan. 12 Feb. 8 10 May 22 31 June 2 July 1 3 Rookery. Reef do do Tolstoi Reef , Southwest Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi Southwest Bay Zoltoi and Reef Tolstoi and Reef Southwest Bay and Northeast Point Halfway Point Northeast Point Southwest Bay and Tolstoi Halfway Point, Reef, and Tolstoi Southwest Bay and Tol- . stoi Ketova, Reef, Zoltoi, and Northeast Point Southwest Bay and Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, Northeast Point Ketova, Reef, Zoltoi, Northeast Point Halfway Point, Northeast Point MiddleHill, Tolstoi, Northeast Point Southwest Bay and Northeast Point English Bay. Middle Hill, Northeast Point.. Reef, Tolstoi, Northeast Point MiddleHill, Tolstoi, Northeast Point Halfway Point, Lukannon, Northeast Point.. Reef, Northeast Point .. Southwest Bay and Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Northeast Point.. Zoltoi, Northeast Point.. Middle Hill, Zoltoi, Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Northeast Point.. Halfway Point, Northeast Point.. Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 400 849 428 488 2,223 217 366 2,469 1,601 3,805 2,575 3,034 Skins accepted. 400 847 428 488 2,223 217 366 2,469 1,601 3,782 2,575 3,034 Skins rejected. 23 Total killed for all purposes. 400 849 428 488 2,223 217 366 2,469 1,601 3,805 2,575 3,034 388 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Table showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1SS2. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives ' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July 10 Reef, Ketova, Lukannon, Northeast Point . 3,291 2, 833 3,420 3,087 1,654 2,593 1,012 1,276 727 3,291 2,831 3,418 3,084 1,645 2,593 1,010 1,276 727 2 2 3 9 2 3,291 12 do 2,833 13 Southwest Bay and 3,420 14 English Bav, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, North* 3,087 15 Lukannon, Ketova, Northeast Point. 1,654 17 English Bay, Middle Hill, Northeast Point.. 2,593 18 Zoltoi 1,012 19 Zoltoi, Lukannon, Ketova 1,276 20 727 25 Zoltoi . 204 19 252 226 234 191 237 227 25 201 261 166 23 248 383 429 498 388 400 204 19 251 103 161 377 426 481 384 398 204 27 Northeast Point.. . .- 19 Aug. 4 14 Zoltoi . 1 123 234 191 237 227 25 201 261 166 23 87 6 3 17 4 2 "" |........ 252 do.. 226 26 . do 234 Sept. 4 15 do do 191 237 27 do 227 30 Northeast Point 25 Oct. 6 Zoltoi 201 17 do 261 30 Reef 166 30 Nort.hAast "Point. 23 Nov. 17 Middle Hill and Tolstoi Reef.. 248 28 383 30 Tolstoi 429 Dec. 4 Reef 498 6 do 388 12 do 400 Total 5,175 3,362 1,813 74. 659 74. 5R1 78 79,834 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 22 29 June 6 12 16 19 22 24 27 29 1 3 5 July 10 11 12 14 15 17 18 19 29 5 11 17 25 Sept. 15 Nov. 22 28 Aug. North do do Starry Ateel, North, and East do. do. dodo, do. do. do. do. do. do. t.. 12 48 26 Eas Starry Ateel and North. East Starry Ateel and North. East.* Starry Ateel and North. East Starry Ateel and North. North East Starry Ateel East do do , Starry Ateel do Total. 483 12 48 26 50 50 40 31 45 13 34 28 44 25 46 19 119 19 19 371 9 32 6 19 46 112 509 890 927 847 1,195 1,044 1,273 1,065 911 1,384 1,955 1,371 1,115 1,070 527 649 1,022 1,086 655 19, 495 508 887 926 847 1,192 1,040 1,273 1,063 910 1,382 1,946 1,368 1,113 1,065 524 643 1,015 1,083 655 19,440 55 I 12 48 26 509 890 927 847 1,195 1,044 1,273 1,065 911 1,384 1,955 1,371 1,115 1,070 527 649 1,022 1,086 655 50 40 45 34 44 46 119 19 19,978 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 389 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1882. TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. St. Paul.... St. George.. Total. Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Bachelors. 5,175 483 None . 5,658 Skins Skins ac- re- cepted Ijected. 3,362 371 3,733 1,813 112 1,925 Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 74, 659 19,495 94,154 Skins accepted. 74, 581 19, 440 Skins re jected. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. 94,021 134 Bachelors. 79, 834 19,978 99,812 Total skins ac- Total skins re- cepted. jected. 77, 943 19,811 97,754 1,891 167 2,058 Total killed for all purposes. 79,834 19,978 99,812 1883. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. May 26 June 4 20 23 18-23 25 30 , 25-30 July 2 12 Rookery. Southwest Bay Southwest Bay, English Bay, and Tolstoi Halfway Point Reef Southwest Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Reef and Zoltoi Halfway Point Southwest Bay and English Bay English Bay and Tolstoi Reef and Zoltoi Southwest Bay English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Halfway Point and Lukannon Reef and Tolstoi English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Reef, Zoltoi, Lukannon.. Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Zoltoi and Lukannon Southwest Bay and English Bay Zoltoi, Tolstoi, Reef, Lukannon English Bay, Middle Hill, Zoltoi Lukannon, Reef, Zoltoi.. Northeast Point Halfway Point Southwest Bay Middle Hill and Tolstoi. Zoltoi and Lukannon Zoltoi, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Zoltoi, Reef, Lukannon.. MiddleHill Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi, and Zoltoi. Halfway Point, Lukannon, Zoltoi Southwest Bay English Bay, Middle Hill, Zoltoi do Halfway Point, Zoltoi... Southwest Bay Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Bachelors. 230 Skins accepted. 227 Skins rejected. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 592 354 177 405 352 252 490 440 341 417 735 908 972 1,401 1,078 3,279 1,428 838 1.640 1,612 1,519 1,191 5,012 1,700 2,151 1,494 2,346 1, 755 939 1,164 5,066 1,923 1,659 2,444 2,136 2,060 1,116 1,876 Skins accepted. 590 352 175 405 351 252 490 440 341 417 734 904 955 1,401 1,078 3,279 1,428 838 1,638 1,607 1,515 1,191 5,012 1,699 2,151 1,494 2,346 1,755 933 1,163 5,066 1,923 1,657 2,440 2,126 2,059 1,115 1,873 Skins rejected. Total killed for all purposes. 230 592 354 177 405 352 252 490 440 341 417 735 908 972 1,401 1,078 3,279 1,428 838 1,519 1,191 5,012 1,700 2,151 1,494 2,346 1,755 939 1,164 5,066 1,923 1,659 2,444 2,136 2,060 1,116 1,876 P 390 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1883. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July 19 Middle Hill, Lukannon, 1,883 1,883 1,883 Aug. 1 10 Zoltoi 191 159 202 178 223 m 186 ■ 200 200 190 154 197 112 53 1 5 5 66 170 186 200 200 191 do 259 20 do 202 Sept. 1 12 do *. 278 do 123 24 do 286 Oct. 6 do 200 20 do 200 29 Reef 1 1,562 536 884 1,562 Nov. 1 Ketova 536 2 Reef 884 5 do 119 134 155 84 66 420 66 108 155 53 26 119 15 ...do 134 26 ...do 155 27 Tolstoi 83 1 84 27 Northeast Point (to date) Reef 26 40 66 Dec. 12 402 18 420 19 do 421 421 421 Total 2,982 3.168 1 2.194 974 57,145 57,070 75 63,295 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 26 North 40 40 40 . do 78 136 287 61 380 684 443 611 340 290 647 1,336 307 507 263 546 321 775 1,017 130 467 1,216 281 1,150 766 78 606 505 473 38 78 135 287 61 379 684 442 608 340 287 645 1,333 306 507 260 546 321 775 1,015 130 467 1,216 280 1,150 766 77 606 501 473 1 1 7H 12 Starrv Ateel and East... 136 15 ..db 287 19 Starry Ateel 61 22 380 25 East, North, and Starry Ateel.. 684 28 do 1 443 30 ..do 3 611 July 2 ..do.. 340 ..do.. 3 290 7 ..do 2 647 9 3 1,336 10 Little East and East. 1 307 10 Zapadnie.. 507 11 North and Starry Ateel. Little East and East. - 3 263 12 546 13 N orth and Starry Ateel. Little East and East.... 321 16 775 17 Zapadnie 2 1,017 17 Starry Ateel and North. Little East and East 130 18 467 19 Zapadnie 1 1, 216 20 Little East and East 1 281 21 | 1,150 23 North, East, Starry Ateel 766 25 East 1 78 27 Starry Ateel, North and East 606 30 do 4 505 31 ..do 473 During the season—perished on drives.. 38 as Aug. 13 21 East 100 50 60 54 98 45 60 54 2 5 100 50 60 54 120 540 340 171 Near 31 Little East.. Sept. 14 Oct. 19 East Near ......* 120 540 340 29 Near and North Nov. 2 North 19 North and Starry Ateel. Total 171 171 1,000 475 468 7 14, 739 14,675 64 16 214 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 391 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1883. i TOT AT, FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. Ijected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 2,982 1,000 3,168 475 2,194 468 974 7 57,145 14, 739 57, 070 14,675 75 64 60,313 15,214 59,264 15,143 1,049 71 63,295 16, 214 Total 3,982 3,643 2,662 981 71, 884 71,745 13a 75,527 74,407 1,120 79, 509 1884. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. Jan. 2 May 15 12 30 July 1 Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Reef Northeast Point (to date) do Halfway Point and Reef. Northeast Point (to date) Southwest Bay and Reef. Reef Southwest Bay, English Bay, and Zoltoi Reef and Halfway Point. Ketova and Tolstoi Southwest Bay and Halfway Point Zoltoi, Ketova, and English Bay Zoltoi and Reef Halfway Point Southwest Bay English Bay, . Tolstoi, • Reef, and Zoltoi Halfway Point English Bay and Tolstoi. Southwest Bay Zoltoi and Reef Northeast Point Halfway Point and Zoltoi Zoltoi, Reef, Lukannon, and Ketova Southwest Bay English Bay, MiddleHill, and Tolstoi Zoltoi, Reef, and Ketova. Northeast Point Tolstoi, MiddleHill, and Lukannon Zoltoi and Halfway Poin t Zoltoi, Reef, Tolstoi, and Lukannon , English Bay and Middle Hill Sonthwest Bay, Zoltoi, Middle Hill, and Lukannon English Bay and Tolstoi. Northeast Point Zoltoi, Reef, and Ketova. Halfway Point Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon Southwest Bay English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 16 Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. 318 767 1,239 426 1,364 865 771 838 1,424 1,266 912 487 1,793 1,117 3,992 2,163 1,729 1,197 2,546 1,830 5,134 1,500 1,662 1,826 1,888 1,340 1,522 5,799 1,251 1,935 2,071 1,966 Skins ac- Skins re- cepted. jected. 317 767 1,238 426 1,356 864 771 837 1,421 1,266 912 486 1,786 1,115 3,977 2,163 1,724 1,194 2,528 1,827 5,134 1,500 1,662 1,336 1,512 5,799 1,249 1,934 2,067 1,966 1,920 I 1,915 Total killed for all purposes. 767 1,239 426 1,364 865 771 838 1,424 1,266 912 487 1,793 1,117 3,992 2,163 1,729 1,197 2,546 1,830 5,134 1,500 1,662 1,826 1,888 1,340 1,522 5,799 1,251 1,935 2,071 1,966 1,920 msm 392 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1884. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July7-10 12 3,003 3,075 2,516 2,052 1,526 1,782 1,872 5,089 2,529 1,911 3,003 3,072 2,515 2,049 1,523 1,777 1,866 5,089 2,527 1,908 3.003 Middle Hill, Tolstoi, Lukannon, Zoltoi, Reef 3 3,067 14 Halfway Point and Zoltoi Southwest Bay 1 2,515 15 3 2.052 16 English Bay, Middle Hill, and Ketova 3 5 6 2 3 1,526 17 Zoltoi and Lukannon 1,782 18 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1,872 14-18 Northeast Point ". 5,089 19 MiddleHill, Tolstoi, Lukannon, Ketova, Zoltoi, Reef 2,529 21 Middle Hill, Zoltoi, Tolstoi, Ketova. 1,911 Aug. 1 5 Zoltoi 198 92 80 90 78 IfiO 189 89 65 84 57 9 3 15 6 21 198 do.. 92 12 do 80 19 do 90 26 ..do 78 Sept. 2 12 do.. 160 147 131 150 142 144 115 126 160 ...do 147 131 150 142 14.4. 147 19 ..do... 131 27 do 150 Oct. 6 do 142 14 Lukannon 144 22 Reef.. 115 179 53 115 30 Nov. 3 5 10 24 Dec. 5 English Bay.. 179 Reef. 1,956 785 1,956 do 785 Tolstoi 182 153 495 265 244 115 108 487 257 232 67 45 8 182 Reef 153 do 495 6 English Bay 8 12 265 24 Reef 244 Total 2,741 3,907 2,582 1,325 82,213 82,086 127 88,861 . ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 21 26 June 4 10 12 16 18 21 23 26 28 July 1 1 3 7 10 12 14 15 16 18 19 East ., North East . Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East ; Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East Zapadnie do Starry Ateel, North and East Zapadnie Starry Ateel, North and East Zapadnie East and Little East Starry Ateel and North. Zapadnie East and Little East Starry Ateel and North. 15 52 15 51 119 1, 222 694 585 572 592 603 578 111 ,222 690 581 552 582 598 556 489 486 289 287 11 11 71 71 90 87 ,269 1,260 973 971 302 298 465 465 726 726 996 990 506 506 4 4 20 10 5 22 3 2 15 52 119 1,222 694 585 572 592 603 578 489 289 11 71 90 1,269 973 302 465 726 996 506 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 393 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1884. ST. GEORGE ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bache-1 S^8 lora- copied. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. Julv 23 797 744 597 573 640 225 795 744 595 572 640 224 2 2 1 1 797 24 Starry Ateel and North. East and Little East 744 25 597 26 573 30 Starry Ateel, North and 640 Aug. 4 4 East 225 . do. 19 19 19 14 North 48 48 64 63 60 60 48 21 East 1 60 60 64 Sept. 2 15 Near . 60 North 60 Nov. 3 ..do 515 482 503 515 5 ..do 482 12 . do 503 26 Starry Ateel. 27 27 27 Total | | 1,500 345 223 122 14,728 14, 620 108 16.573 TOTAL EOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of hachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bache- SJ™8 lors' cepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 2,741 1,500 3,907 345 2,582 223 1,325 122 82, 213 14, 728 82, 086 14, 620 127 108 86,120 15,073 84, 668 14,843 1,452 230 88, 861 16, 573 Total 4,241 4,252 2,805 1,447 96,941 1 96,706 1 235 101,193 99,511 1,682 105,434. 1885. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 19 181 141 168 136 13 5 181 27 Reef 141 June 3 49 73 125 587 741 973 1,700 617 1,309 986 789 1,532 48 73 125 587 741 971 1,700 617 1,307 986 789 1,531 1 2 o 1 49 6 Zoltoi and Reef 73 11 do... 125 13 Tolstoi and English Bay Halfwav Point 587 15 741 16 ZoltoiandReef 973 17 Southwest Bay 1,700 18 EnglishBay.MiddleHill, 617 19 Lukannon and Halfway Point 1,309 20 986 22 Zoltoi, Reef, and Lu- j 789 22 1,532 394 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1885. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins ac. cepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. June 23 Halfway Point and Zoltoi 1,143 847 1, 733 286 1,681 1,051 1,373 667 1,328 539 1,602 553 2,681 1,053 1,777 1,096 1,465 631 2,134 658 976 161 1,271 522 2,664 1,184 2,550 746 1,294 793 2,304 671 2,134 822 2,692 955 2,139 363 2,137 757 2,203 647 1,552 616 1,591 828 2,723 474 2,743 687 1,603 631 2,498 2,215 983 1,142 847 1,733 286 1,679 1.051 1,372 667 1,328 539 1,602 553 2,681 1,053 1,773 1,096 1,465 631 2,132 658 976 161 1,271 522 2,663 1,184 2,548 746 1,292 793 2,302 671 2,132 822 2,692 955 2,138 . 363 2,137 757 2,201 647 1,552 616 1,590 828 2,720 474 2,739 687 1,603 631 2,495 2,212 983 1 2 1 4 2 1 2 2 2 o 1 2 1 3 4 3 3 1,143 23 24 Northeast Point English Bay, Southwest Bay Middle Hill... 847 1,733 24 Northeast Point.. ...... 286 25 Reef and Lukannon.. 1, 681 25 1,051 26 Halfway Point . 1,373 26 27 Lukannon, Zoltoi, and Reef 667 1,328 27 29 Southwest Bay...... 539 1,602 29 30 Northeast Point English Bay and Middle Hill ........ 553 2,681 30 July 1 Reef, Lukannon, Zoltoi, 1,053 1,777 1 Northeast Point.. ... 1,096 2 Tolstoi, Middle Hill, and English Bay 1,465 2 Northeast Point- 631 3 Halfway Point and Zoltoi Lukannon and Zoltoi.... 2,134 3 4 658 976 4 6 Southwest Bay 161 1,271 6 n 1 Northeast Point Middle Hill, Southwest Bay, and Tolstoi 522 2,664 Nortneas Point 1,184 8 Zoltoi, Lukannon, and 2,550 8 9 Middle TTill and Tolstoi. Halfway Point Northeast Point 746 1,294 9 10 10 793 2,304 671 13 2,134 13 Northeast Point 822 14 English Bay and Tolstoi Northeast Point 2,692 14 955 15 Zoltoi 2,139 15 363 16 Halfway Point and L u- kannon 2,137 16 17 Zoltoi 757 2,203 17 NortheastPoint 647 18 18 Reef, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill Northeast Point 1,552 616 20 Southwest Bay 1,591 20 Northeast Point 828 21 Middle Hill and English Bay 2,723 21 Northeast Point 474 22 Zoltoi and Lukannon 2,743 22 Northeast Point 687 23 Middle Hill, English Ba v, and Zoltoi 1, 603 23 Northeast Point 631 24 Halfway Point, Middle 2 498 25 English Bay, Zoltoi, Ketova, Middle Hill, and Lukannon Reef 2 215 27 Zoltoi, Reef, and Middle Hill 983 Aug. 3 Zoltoi 147 147 147 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 395 Table showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1885. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total kiUed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. Aug. 12 21 Zoltoi 179 185 135 155 152 78 122 85 178 176 44 53 1 9 91 155 152 78 122 32 179 185 Sept. 5 12 Zoltoi ........ 135 do . 155 25 do . 152 Oct 7 do 78 14 do . 122 26 do 85 Nov 2 Reef -................... 1,524 964 300 1,524 4 do 964 7 do 300 9 Middle Hill. 332 148 1,096 48 330 144 1,084 48 2 4 12 332 21 Reef.. 148 Dec. 31 do 1,096 Northeast Point 48 Total 2,788 3,184 2,508 676 82, 908 82, 866 42 88, 880 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 18 North 40 38 39 38 1 1 40 38 June 1 do Starry Ateel, North and East 11 750 77 698 802 750 77 698 750 15 77 18 do 698 17 Starry Ateel and North 802 825 802 15 825 825 22 414 1,775 414 1,775 401 2,287 789 2,156 2 1,011 2.218 4 414 27 Starry Ateel, North and East 1,775 29 Zapadnie 401 2,287 401 July 3 Starry Ateel, North and East 2,287 7 Zapadnie 789 2,158 789 10 Starry Ateel, North and East 2,158 13 Zapadnie 1,011 2 222 '483 1,011 17 Starry Ateel, North and East 2.222 20 Zapadnie 483 1 ...1 483 25 North do do East North' "Near" 250 700 100 30 35 23 50 65 37 35 23 37 65 36 35 23 50 65 Aug. 3 6 13 21 25 1 37 Nov. 4 250 6 North do 700 120 41 53 18 20 11 20 11 21 Starry Ateel Perished on drives during the year 53 52 Total — 1 1,080 319 J 304 i 15 14.745 14,686 59 16,144 396 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued 1885. TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Totals of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 2,788 1,080 3,184 319 2,508 304 676 15 82,908 14,745 82,866 14, 686 42 59 86,092 15,064 85, 374 14, 990 718 74 88,880 16,144 Total 3,868 3,503 2,812 691 97,653 97,552 | 101 101,156 100,364 792 105,024 1886. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. Jan 21 Sea-Lion Rock ....... 84 49 7 5 300 49 153 83 49 7 5 300 49 153 1 84 29 Southwest Bay . 49 May 5 8 Northeast Point.. 7 do.. 5 17 Southwest Bay and Reef. 300 10 17 Northeast Point. 49 29 Reef 153 . do.. 562 1,323 299 634 214 427 1,343 1,166 1,116 850 585 833 761 651 376 1,064 371 1,891 1,161 1,007 659 1,770 955 1,555 498 2,158 581 441 1,070 926 1,503 794 490 1,056 1,319 1,202 856 566 561 1,323 299 633 214 427 1,341 1,166 1,114 850 585 833 761 651 376 1,064 371 1,890 1,161 1,006 659 1,770 955 1, 555 498 2,158 581 441 1,070 926 1,503 794 490 1,056 1,318 1,202 856 566 1 1 2 2 1 1 562 8 Tolstoi, English Bay, Southwest Bay.. . 1,323 9 Halfway Point ... 299 10 Reef and Zoltoi.. 634 11 English Bay 214 14 Lukannon and Reef . 427 14 1,343 15 1,166 15 1,116 16 English Bay, Middle Hill Tolstoi 850 16 585 17 833 17 Northeast Point 761 18 651 18 Northeast Point 376 19 English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi 1,064 19 Northeast Point ... 371 21 Southwest Bay 1 891 21 Northeast Point.. 1 161 22 English Bay and Tolstoi . 1 007 22 Northeast Point 659 23 Halfway Point 1 770 23 Northeast Point 955 24 Zoltoi 1 555 24 Northeast Point 498 25 Reef, Zoltoi, English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi 2 158 25 Northeast Point 581 26 do 441 28 Southwest Bay 1 070 28 Northeast Point Q9fi 29 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Zoltoi 1 503 29 Northeast Point 794 30 Halfway Point ....... 490 30 Northeast Point 1 056 July 1 1 English Bay and Tolstoi. Northeast Point 1 1 319 1 202 2 Southwest Bay 856 2 1 566 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 397 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1886. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Date. July Aug. Sept. Nov. Dec. Rookery. Reef and Zoltoi English Bay and Tolstoi. Northeast Point Halfway Point Northeast Point Zoltoi, Reef, and Lukannon Northeast Point '. Southwest Bay Northeast Point English Bay, Middle Hill, Tolstoi Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, Ketova, and Lukannon Halfway Point Southwest Bay and Southwest Point Northeast Point English Bay and Middlo Hill Northeast Point Zoltoi, Reef, Ketova, Lukannon Northeast Point Halfway Point Northeast Point Southwest Bay and Southwest Point Northeast Point Reef and Zoltoi Northeast Point English Bay .Middle Hill, Tolstoi Northeast Point Halfway Point Northeast Point Southwest Bay and Southwest Point Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, Lukannon, and Ketova Northeast Point English Bay and Middle Hill Northeast Point Halfwav Point, Southwest Bav, Lukannon, Zoltoi..": Zoltoi Reef. Reef and Lukannon. Reef do do Tolstoi Reef Tolstoi Total Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 143 Bachelors. 1,263 1,163 1,180 942 866 1,969 1,187 1,466 952 1,563 636 1,133 1,044 1,442 1,501 1,074 602 1,957 899 937 1,013 2,057 407 2,312 753 3,140 801 1,476 312 2,015 923 3,147 739 1,625 658 1,993 Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. 1,259 1,161 1,180 942 866 1,967 1,187 1,466 952 1,562 636 1,132 1,044 1,442 1,501 1,074 602 1,956 899 937 1,013 2,055 407 2,312 753 3,140 801 1,475 312 2,015 923 3,147 739 1,624 658 1,987 Total killed for all purposes. 1,263 1,163 1,180 942 866 1,969 1,187 1,466 952 1,563 636 1,133 1,044 1,442 1,501 1,074 602 1,957 899 937 1,013 2,057 407 2, 312 753 3,140 801 1,476 312 2,015 923 3,147 739 1,625 658 ,824 3,081 2,480 601 82,180 82,150 30 88,085 398 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1886. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives ' food. Seals killed for Skins for lessees. Bache- S^cns SJein8 Iors' cepted. jected. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. May 18 28 East 39 102 4 81 37 102 4 52 2 39 North 102 Captured skins 4 14 29 81 10 Starry Ateel, North, and East 1,430 779 1,438 843 742 343 306 288 632 482 620 503 650 867 745 888 712 663 853 527 295 1,428 779 1,436 843 742 343 306 288 632 481 620 499 648 865 745 888 707 663 844 527 294 2 2 1 4 2 2 5 9 1 1,430 779 14 Zapadnie................ 17 Starry Ateel, North, and East 1,438 843 21 22 Starry Ateel and North. 742 23 343 24 306 28 do 288 29 Starry Ateel and North. East 632 July 1 5 i 482 620 6 Starry Ateel and North. East 503 7 650 10 Starry Ateel and North 867 12 | 745 14 East . i 888 15 Starry Ateel and North. Zapadnie . 712 19 663 21 Starry Ateel and North. East 853 22 .... 527 23 295 Aue. 2 Near North 14 11 66 42 70 76 14 66 41 70 14 2 do 11 11 9 East 66 17 North 1 42 23 East 70 Sept. 6 Oct. 26 North 76 76 do 759 759 28 East 24 24 ........ 24 Nov. 8 North 527 527 13 East 3 12 3 3 Perished on the drive 12 12 Total 1 28fi 1 544 413 131 14, 606 14, 578 28 16,436 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for leasees. Totals of hachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. 3,081 544 Skins accepted Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St.Paul St. George 2,824 1,286 2,480 413 601 131 82,180 14,606 82,150 14,578 30 28 85, 261 15,150 84, 630 14,991 631 159 88,085 16,436 Total .... 4,110 3, 625 2,893 732 96, 786 96,728 58 100,411 99, 621 790 104, 521 goon Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, Middle Hill i 400 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1887. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives ' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July 22 23 Northeast Point 1,082 2,226 232 1,082 2,226 232 .... 1,082 Southwest Bay, Reef, Zoltoi, Lukannon 2,226 24 Tolstoi 232 31 Northeast Point 39 137 113 209 521 403 356 192 100 116 108 76 39 137 113 207 519 403 356 186 75 41 50 44 39 Aug. 1 8 Zoltoi 137 do *. 113 16 Reef and Lukannon. 2 2 209 24 English Bay 521 Sept. 5 6 Middle TTill 403 English Bay 356 15 Zoltoi 6 25 75 58 32 192 28 do 100 Oct. 6 ....do 116 17 ...do 108 26 ....do 76 Nov. 1 Ree* 1,013 1,132 32 1,013 3 do 1,132 4 do 32 6 Zoltoi 65 611 82 185 450 169 65 590 78 185 445 . 167 65 7 Middle Hill 21 4 611 25 Reef 82 26 Middle Hill and Tolstoi do 185 Dec. 9 5 2 450* 15 Sea Lion Rock and Southwest Bay 169 Total 2,177 4,207 3,975 232 82, 708 82,679 29 89 092 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 20 28 North.. 25 32 25 32 1 . 25 do 32 June 9 North and East 390 465 427 261 974 533 599 847 410 100 883 1,321 421 701 1,296 1,509 1,077 894 1,130 489 390 465 427 261 974 533 599 846 409 100 883 1,321 421 701 1,296 1,509 1,077 894 1,130 489 1 1 390 14 North and East, and Starry Ateel 465 15 427 20 do 261 21 Starry Ateel, North, and East 974 25 East 533 27 599 28 Starry Ateel and North . East 847 30 410 July 1 Starry Ateel and North . Zapadnie 100 4 883 6 East, North, and Starry Ateel 1,321 8 East 421 11 Zapadnie 701 12 Starry, A teel, Near, and North 1,296 14 East 1 50ft 18 Zapadnie 1,077 19 Near, North, and Starry Ateel 894 21 East 1 130 22 Starry Ateel and North Near 489 Auff. 3 53 41 87 23 61 44 24 45 126 24 53 41 86 23 61 126 24 53 6 East 41 12 do 1 87 20 do 23 22 do 61 Sept, 5 10 Near 44 24 45 44 Zapadnie 24 19 ....\do 45 Oct. 24 East 126 Nov. 1 Near 742 614 766 7 ..... do 614 Total 1,356 585 471 114 14,727 14,725 2 16,668 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 401 Table showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1887. TOT AT, EOR ST. PAUL. AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of hachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Island. Pups. Bachelors. 4,207 585 Skins accepted. Skins- rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bache" 1 SafS lora- cepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 2,177 1,356 3,975 471 232 114 82, 708 14, 727 82,679 14, 725 29 2 86,915 86,654 15,312 1 15,196 261 116 89, 092 16, 668 Total 3,533 4,792 4,446 346 97,435 97,404 1 31 102,227 1101, 850 1 377 105, 760 188S. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. Jan 25 Northeast Point 545 131 113 82 82 532 121 113 82 82 13 10 545 May 19 Tolstoi, Reef, and Sea 131 24 Reef 113 28 ..do 82 31 Northealst Point 82 Reef 121 175 342 543 587 428 789 764 1,490 490 930 1,400 1,604 801 702 565 973 1,440 870 1,158 1,509 2,005 850 911 1,180 1,098 625 1,625 964 2,071 1,413 1,188 1,439 822 1,241 1,942 446 1,491 1,609 490 121 175 342 543 584 428 788 764 1,490 490 930 1,398 1,604 799 700 565 973 1,440 870 1,158 1,509 2,005 850 911 1,180 1,098 625 1,625 964 2,071 1,413 1,188 1,439 822 1,241 1,942 446 1,491 1,609 490 3 1 o jEj 2 2 121 7 175 g Tolstoi 342 11 Southwest Bay....... 543 12 English Bay 587 15 Halfway Point.... 428 16 Reef and Zoltoi 789 18 Southwest Bay 764 18 Northeast Point 1,490 19 Tolstoi 490 19 Northeast Point 930 21 Reef and Zoltoi 1,400 21 Northeast Point 1, 604 22 Halfway Point 801 23 English Bay, Tolstoi, MiddleHill 702 23 Northeast Point 565 22 do 973 25 Southwest Bay 1.44.0 25 Northeast Point 870 26 English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi 1,158 26 Northeast Point 1,509 27 Reef, Zoltoi, Ketova, and 2,005 27 Northeast Point 850 28 Halfway Point 911 28 Northeast Point 1 180 29 Southwest Bay " 1, 098 29 Northeast Point 625 30 Middle Hill, English Bay, and Tolstoi 1 625 30 Northeast Point 964 July 2 Reef and Zoltoi 2 071 2 Northeast Point 1 413 3 Halfway Point 1 188 3 Northeast Point 1 439 4 Southwest Bay 822 4 Northeast Point 1, 241 5 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Lukannon 1 942 5 Northeast Point 446 6 Reef and Zoltoi 1,491 6 Northeast Point 1,609 7 Halfway Point 490 H. Doc. 92- -26 402 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Table, showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1888. ST. PAUL ISLAND—Continued. Rookery. Seals killed for natives ' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July 7 9 Northeast Point..... 906 2,398 1,740 1,083 959 1,557 927 1,337 912 773 550 481 2,004 1,038 2,055 1,328 2,216 1,004 1,410 705 2,018 646 1,157 190 742 1,269 917 347 970 1,619 1,028 1,353 650 950 906 2,398 1,740 1,082 959 1,554 927 1,337 912 773 550 480 2,004 1,038 2,054 1,328 2,216 1,004 1,410 705 2,018 646 1,157 190 742 1,269 917 347 970 1,619 1,028 1,353 650 950 1 3 1 1 906 English Bay, Tolstoi, Lukannon, and Middle Hill 1 2,398 9 1,740 10 Reef and Zoltoi . 1,083 10 959 12 English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi 1,557 12 Northeast Point 927 13 Southwest Bay... . 1,337 13 912 14 773 14 Northeast Point 550 15 West Point 481 16 2,004 16 Northeast Point r 1,038 17 English Bav and Tolstoi. 2,055 17 Northeast Point 1,328 18 2,216 18 Northeast Point. 1,004 19 Halfway Point 1,410 19 Northeast Point. 705 20 Reef and Zoltoi ■2,018 20 Northeast Point 646 21 English Bay and Tolstoi. 1,157 21 190 21 Northeast Point 742 23 Reel, Lukannon, and Zoltoi 1,269 23 Northeast Point 917 24 Halfway Point 347 24 Northeast Point 970 25 English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill 1,619 25 Northeast Point 1,028 26 Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon 1,353 26 Northeast Point 650 27 Southwest Bay and Zoltoi • 950 Aug. 2 8 Zoltoi 177 140 159 364 321 19 114 100 98 98 83 98 177 140 159 362 321 19 98 97 98 98 83 98 111 126 177 do 140 16 do 159 23 Middle Hill and Lukannon ..1 2 364 24 Zoltoi 321 24 do 19 Sept. 6 15 do 16 3 114 do 100 22 do 98 29 do 98 Oct. 10 Lukannon 83 18 MiddleHill * - • 98 27 do Middle Hill and Zoltoi.. 111 126 111 Nov. 3 126 5 Reef 761 547 716 154 761 7 do 547 8 do do 716 9 154 15 MiddleHill 277 277 111 127 190 277 26 Reef 111 129 206 78 111 30 do 2 16 129 Dec. 17 Tolstoi Sea Lion Rock 206 26 78 78 2,178 1 3,762 3,700 1 62 80,330 80,314 16 86,270 ALASKA INDUSTRIES, 403 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1888. ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Rookery. Seals killed foi natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. June 6 11 121 272 455 227 427 324 764 911 895 438 343 343 532 503 650 389 1,170 820 518 705 410 692 366 554 179 405 159 521 144 410 121 272 455 227 427 324 764 908 894 438 341 341 530 503 648 389 1,169 810 508 694 407 683 366 550 179 405 159 520 142 408 3 1 2 2 2 2 1 10 10 11 3 9 4 1 2 2 121 272 12 Starry Ateel, North, and East 455 16 do 227 18 427 19 Starry Ateel, North, and East j 324 22 do 764 25 911 26 Starry Ateel and North. East 895 27 438 29 Starry Ateel and North. 343 July 2 3 343 East 532 4 Starry Ateel and North. East 503 6 650 9 Zapadnie .......... ... 389 10 Starry Ateel and North. East 1,170 12 820 13 Starry Ateel and North Zapadnie 518 16 705 17 North 410 18 Starry Ateel and East.. 692 19 Zapadnie . 366 20 Starry Ateel, North, and East 554 23 Zapadnie 179 24 Starry Ateel, North, and East 405 25 Zapadnie 159 26 Starry Ateel, North, and 521 27 Zapadnie 144 27 Starry Ateel, North, and East 410 Aug. 9 Near 39 39 37 191 494 428 40 73 32 7 32 7 25 9, 39 9 North 39 15 do 37 20 East 191 191 28 Starry Ateel and North East and Starry Ateel 494 396 73 494 Sept. 5 27 32 40 428 North 40 Oct. 20 North and East 73 Nov. 1 North 610 368 610 5 do 368 Aug. 20 to Zapadnie (for watch- 68 68 68 Oct 30 Total 978 1,409 1.25(1 1 88 14,647 14,582 65 17 034 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. | Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Total of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bache-1 SMns |Skins lors ac" re" cepted. jected. Bachelors. Skins ac- - cepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul 2,178 St. George 978 3,762 1,409 3,700 1,321 «62 88 80,330 80,314 16 14,647 14, 582 65 84,092 16, 056 84,014 15, 903 78 153 86, 370 17, 034 Total. ; . 1 3,156. 5,171 5,021 150 94, 977 1 94, 896 j 81 jlOO, 148 99, 917 231 103, 304 Hi 404 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1889. ST. PAUL ISLAND. Date. "May 22 I 25 28 31 June 5 10 12 14 15 17 17 18 18 19 19 20 21 22 24 24 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 29 July 1 2 2 3 9 9 10 10 12 13 13 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 Rookery. Seals killed for natives' food. Pups. Sea Lion Rock .. Reef do Northeast Point. Reef do Tolstoi Zoltoi and Reef Southwest Bay Halfway Point Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill Northeast Point do Bachelors. Skins accepted. 124 41 234 133 124 41 234 133 Skins rejected. Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon Southwest Bay Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill Northeast Point Reef and Zoltoi Halfway Point and Lukannon Northeast Point English Bay and Middle Hill Northeast Point Southwest Bay Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, and Ketova. Northeast Point do English Bay and Tolstoi. Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon Halfway Point Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi. and Middle Hill '.. Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukan non Northeast Point Southwest Bay Northeast Point English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukan non Northeast Point English Bay and Tolstoi Northeast Point Halfway Point Northeast Point Reef and Zoltoi Southwest Bay Northeast Point English Bay and Middle Hill Northeast Point Reef, Zoltoi, and Lukannon Northeast Point Halfway Point and Lukannon Northeast Point Lagoon, English Bay, and Middle Hill Northeast Point Southwest Bay Northeast Point Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. 201 120 947 762 340 895 1,054 1,161 1,270 494 1,561 253 1,205 1,355 754 2,578 979 1,407 1,314 441 311 844 1,349 479 335 1,038 1, 200 1,023 834 968 1,841 1,716 1,559 1,255 1,524 1,302 376 814 914 1,314 641 654 800 2,004 1,006 793 3,085 1,838 1,911 1,156 1,931 948 2,046 1,282 2,017 834 201 120 947 762 340 895 1,054 1,160 1,270 494 1,561 253 1,205 1, 355 754 2,578 979 1,407 1,314 441 311 844 1,349 479 335 1,038 1,200 1,023 834 968 1,841 1,716 1,559 1,255 1,524 1,302 376 813 914 1,314 641 654 800 2,004 1,006 793 3,083 1,838 1,911 1,156 1,931 948 2,045 1,282 2,016 834 Total killed for all purposes. 124 41 234 133 201 120 947 762 340 895 1,054 1,161 1,270 494 1,561 253 1,205 1,355 754 2,578 979 1,407 1,314 441 311 844 1,349 479 335 1,038 1,200 1,023 834 968 1,841 1,716 1,559 1.255 1,524 1,302 376 814 914 1,314 641 654 800 2,004 1,006 793 3,085 1,838 1,911 1,156 1,931 948 2,046 1,282 2,017 834 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 405 Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, eto.—Continued. 1889. ST. PAUL ISLAND-Continued. Rookery. c i -i -n a e _ 4-4_„„>^„»j Seals killed for skins Seals killed for natives' food. fQJ. iegaees Total killed Date. Pups. Bachelors. Skins accepted. S^ns Bache- jected. lor8' Skins accepted. Skins rejected. for all purposes. July 20 1,913 1,913 243 1,943 350 1,122 743 1,384 616 1,752 1 679 1,433 1,105 1,640 1,624 973 615 538 4 1 3 1,913 20 243 1,943 350 1,122 740 1,384 616 1,756 1 680 1,433 1,105 1,643 1,624 973 615 538 243 22 English Bay, Middle Hill, 1,943 22 350 23 Reef, Zoltoi, and Ketova. 1,122 23 740 24 1,384 24 616 ■25 English Bay and Middle Hill 1,756 25 1 26 680 26 Northeast Point 1,483 27 Zoltoi and Lukannon .,... 1,105 29 English Bay and Middle Hill 1,643 29 1,624 30 973 30 615 31 Northeast Point 538 31 Zoltoi . .. 160 163 131 141 179 141 110 107 120 103 132 125 224 347 192 10 240 243 156 4. 160 Aug. 6 14 Lukannon ............. 163 123 163 Zoltoi 8 131 22 ..do 139 88 44 80 223 347 189 10 236 240 2 91 141 110 107 120 103 88 45 1 141 31 Tolstoi 179 Sept. 9 18 Zoltoi 141 do 110 25 do 107 Oct. 5 ...do 120 15 do 103 26 Lukannon - 132 Nov. 4 Zoltoi 1,044 1,236 1,169 19 Tolstoi 1,460 21 Reef 347 27 do 3 192 27 Zapadnie 10 30 Reef 4 3 240 Dec. 11 Zapadnie 243 Total 2,280 3,400 2,570 830 81, 712 81,698 14 73,982 ST. GEORGE ISLAND. May 22 60 60 60 June 4 East 156 207 244 773 176 284 596 496 223 429 167 275 418 229 270 192 667 371 1,028 156 207 244 773 176 284 596 496 223 429 167 275 418 229 269 192 667 371 1,028 1 156 10 207 17 do 244 18 Starry Ateel, North, and East 773 21 East 176 22 North and Starry Ateel. 284 24 Zapadnie 596 25 East and North 496 27 Zapadnie 223 29 Starry Ateel and East... ...... 429 July 1 Zapadnie 167 2 North, East, and Starry Ateel 275 5 do 418 8 229 10 North, East, and Starry Ateel 270 12 Zapadnie 192 13 North, East, and Starry Ateel 667 15 Zapadnie 371 16 North, East, and Starry 1,028 mmmm VH 406 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Tables showing in detail all killing of fur seals, etc.—Continued. 1889. ST. GEORGE ISLAND—Continued. Date. Rookery. July 18 19 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 10 19 30 7 21 30 11 21 31 6 12 25 Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Zapadnie — North, East, and Starry Ateel Zapadnie North, East, and Starry Ateel Zapadnie North, East, and Starry Ateel do Zapadnie North, East, and Starry Ateel North , do do East do North do Starry Ateel North do do Starry Ateel Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Pups. Bachelors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. 600 471 55 56 48 64 50 33 37 32 4 6 6 61 Total. 1,071 56 32 4 6 6 61 280 Bachelors. 439 1,140 500 628 279 1,430 942 568 515 48 64 50 33 37 Skins Skins ac- re- cepted. jected. 439 1,140 500 628 279 1,430 942 568 515 232 13,641 I 13,642 Total killed for all purposes. 439 1,140 500 628 279 1,430 942 568 515 55 56 48 64 50 33 37 32 4 606 477 01 15,225 TOTAL FOR ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Island. Seals killed for natives' food. Seals killed for skins for lessees. Totals of bachelors killed) accepted,and rejected. Total killed for all purposes. Pups. ]*&*• * lors. Skins Skins ac- re- cepted.'jected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Bachelors. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. St. Paul St. George 2,280 3,400 1,071 512 2,570 830 280 232 81,712 13,642 81,698 13, 641 14 1 85,112 14,154 84,268 13,921 844 233 87,392 15, 225 Total 3,351 3,912 1 2,850 1 1,062 1 95,354 95,339 15 99,266 1 98,189 1,077 102,617 1870 1871 1872 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 1879 1880 1881 2,800 2,877 5,121 5,489 4,897 3,745 3,958 5,007 5,206 5,071 4,413 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1888 1889 2,982 2,741 2,788 2,824 2,177 2,178 2,280 6,449 2,341 6,916 2,090 4,874 6,282 5,061 4,041 4,718 5,970 4,466 7,538 5,175 3,168 3,907 3,184 3,081 4,207 3,762 3,400 Total.. 67, 554 90,630 64,796 Note.—The ahove statement includes all seals killed from all causes, either intentional or accidental, incident to the taking of seal skins on the island of St. Paul. Fur seals killed on the island of Sf. George, for all purposes, from 1870 to 1889, both inclusive. [Compiled from tahles on file in the Treasury Department.] Seals killed for natives' food. 1870. 1871. 1872. 1873. 1874. 1875. 1876 1877. 1878. 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 1838 1889 Bachelors. 1,200 2,090 2, 000 2,190 2,446 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,506 1,330 1,031 Skins Skins ac- receptee!, jected. 237 237 1,000 1,500 1,080 1,286 1,356 978 1,071 256 1,532 843 702 812 483 475 3451 319 544 585 1,409 5121 Total.. 28,064 9,054 256!. 1,216 564 565 509 371 468 223 304 413; 471 1,321 280 316 279 137 303 112 7 122 15 131 114 88 232 7,198 1,856 Seals killed for skins for lessees. Bachelors. Skins accepted. 7,259 18, 830| 25,000 25, 000 10, 000 10, 000 10, 000 14, 744! 17, 772! 19,841 18, 907 19,446 19,495; 14,739' 14,728! 14,745] 14, 606 14,727 14, 6471 13,642 Skins rejected. 7,259 18,8301 25, 000 25, 000 10, 0001 10, 000 10, 000 14, 744 17, 772 19, 758 18, 830 19, 360 19,440 14, 675 14, 620 14,686 14, 578 14,725 14, 582 13,641 Totals of bachelors killed, accepted, and rejected. Bache- | lors. Skins Skins I ac- re- cepted. jected. 318,128 317,500 83 77 86 55 64 108 59 28 2 65 1 7,259 19,067| 25, 000 25, 000 10, 000 10, 000 10, 000 15, 000 19, 304 20, 684 19,609 20, 258 19,978 15,214 15,073 15, 064| 15,150 15,312 16, 056 14,154 628 327,182 7,259 19, 067 25, 000 25, 000 j 10,000 10, 000 10, oooi 15,000 18, 988! 20, 322| 19, 395 19, 869 19,811 15,143 14,843 14, 990 14,991 15,196 15,903 13, 921 -324, 698 316 362 214 389 167 71 230 74 159 116 153 233 Grand totals of seals killed for all purposes. 8,459 21,157 27, 000 27,190 12,446 11,500 11,500 16, 500 20, 804 22,190 20, 939 21, 289 19, 978 16,214 16, 573 16,144 16, 436 16, 668 17, 034 15, 225 2,484 355, 246 Note.—The ahove statement includes all seals killed from all causes, either intentional or accidental, incident to the taking of seal skins on the island of St. George. REPORT-OF SPECIAL AGENT CROWLEY. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, November 20, 1893. Sir : In pursuance of instructions given, me, at Department April 26,1893, I proceeded to San Francisco, Cal., arriving there May 10, and on May 13 I sailed on the North American Commercial Company's steamer Farallon for the seal islands, accompanied by Assistant Special Agents Joseph Murray, E. T. Hall, and Thomas E. Adams. We arrived at St. George Island June 1, finding Agent A. W. Lavender in charge. I at once assumed the duties assigned me by placing Agent E. T. Hall in charge, relieving Agent Lavender as directed. I arrived at St. Paul Island June 3, finding Lieut. D. J. Ainsworth in charge, whom I relieved by placing Agent Joseph Murray in charge until July 1, at which time he was relieved by Thomas E. Adams, whose appointment took effect on that day. Agents Lavender and Murray returned to their homes by the first available vessel leaving the islands after they had been relieved. Lieutenant Ainsworth went aboard the cutter Corwin upon her arrival. Upon my arrival at San Francisco 1 found a box addressed to me, in care of the North American Commercial Company, containing nine volumes of seal-island records, which I distributed on the islands St. Paul and St. George, respectively, as they belonged, according to directions in your letter of April 29, 1893. From Agent Ainsworth I learned there were no seals killed on St. Paul between the dates December 16, 1892, and May 19, 1893. Agent Lavender informed me that there were none taken on St. George Island between the dates November 19, 1892, and May 20,1893. There were none killed between these dates from the fact that the quota was filled. When I arrived at the islands, the agents reported that there were 1,133 seal skins salted to the Government credit, 784 of which were taken on St. Paul and 349 on St. George, these being skins taken from seals killed for native food during the fall of 1892. Considering this number of skins to be on hand, I ordered that 6,367 seals be killed prior to the 10th day of August, 1893, thus furnishing the lessees the full quota, 7,500 skins, ready for shipment at the usual time, the last of August or 1st of September. This leaves to be killed for native food during the months of October, November, and December the same number that was killed last fall, 1,133, this number being necessary to fill the quota, 7,500, directed to be taken in 1893. After visiting St, George Island as early in July as was possible for me to obtain passage between the islands, and observing the condition of the rookeries and the number of seals thereon, in comparison with those of St. Paul, 1 directed that only 2,000 seals be taken on the island of St. George and that 5,500 be taken on the island of St. Paul during 1893. While I have no question in my mind but that the actual number, 7,500, were taken and salted to the Government credit from the 20th 408 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 409 day of October, 1892, up to the 12th day of August, 1893, yet the number of skins counted out of the salt house by myself and Agent Adams, August 24,1893, on St. Paul Island was 5,418, and as counted out by myself and Agent Hall on St. George Island, August 26, 1893, was 2,007, making a total of 7,425 skins, leaving a shortage of 75 skins. Out of this shortage only 7 can be accounted for, which were small road skins killed in the several drives during the season, and the company rejected them and refused to take them from the island, so I gave them to the natives. This left an unaccountable shortage of 68 skins. A very remarkable coincidence is that this shortage all seems to occur on St. Paul Island, and, from the best possible information to be obtained, I find on this island an equal or greater shortage to have been an annual occurrence for years past. As to the taking of seals upon the islands from the 20th day of October, 1892, to the 12th day of August, 1893, a daily journal or register was kept, showing the number of seals taken, the date of taking, the rookery from which they were taken, and the skins accepted and rejected by the lessees. (See Exhibits A and B.) A reference to Exhibit A will show that 5,313 prime skins were accepted, 52 under size rejected, 121 stagey rejected, and 14 cut rejected. But the fact is that on the 24th of August, the day of shipment from St. Paul, George E. Tingle, superintendent of the lessee's company, and myself overhauled the rejected undersized and cut skins, and out of the number formerly rejected by the local agent 23 were accepted as prime skins, leaving the actual number of undersized and cut skins rejected 36. By reference to Exhibits A and B it will be seen that the killing of seals for food in the fall of 1892 on the island of St. George began October 20 and ended November 19, while on St. Paul it began November 11 and ended December 16. During this period out of 349 seals killed on St. George there was not a stagey skin found, while on St. Paul, although the killing began a month later and continued almost a month longer, out of 784 skins taken 121 were found to be stagey, some of these as late as December 16. I was unable to obtain a reasonable explanation for this state of affairs from any natural cause from the oldest and best informed residents of the island. There were a few seals seen at Northeast Point rookery on St. Paul Island as late as January 7,1893. The first seals seen in the spring were a few bachelors swimming in the water close off Reef rookery on April 12. At Zapadne, on St. Paul, the 27th day of April, the first bulls hauled up. Bachelor seals began hauling up May 1, and cows were first noticed during the first days of June. The first pup discovered was on Eeef rookery on St. Paul Island June 12, by which time the cows were coming in pretty fast. It was observed that the pup was born a few days after their arrival. It was plain to be seen that there was an ample number of bulls upon each island to serve all the cows that hauled up on the rookeries. Quite a number of bulls were observed on the several rookeries during the entire season unable to secure a single cow. It was not infrequent to see harems formed of from 3 to 7 cows. The largest number observed in any one harem during the season that could be counted to a certainty was 37. As to the increase or decrease of the seal herd, I can only arrive at a conclusion from information obtained from Agent Murray, who has been on these islands the past four years, and from the native inhabitants, and from the condition and appearance of the rookeries and grounds covered by the seals this year as compared with former years. I think there is little change as to the increase or decrease of the seal herd from last 410 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. year. As to the mortality of the seal herd during the season, there were but few grown seals found dead upon the rookeries. These were bulls, whose death could be easily accounted for from the cuts and scars upon their carcasses. They had no doubt perished from the wounds received from encounters with other bulls while trying to establish their harems. On the 12th of July a terrific gale blew from the north and west, coming with such force tlnat the waves dashed to unusual heights against the rookeries. After the surf had subsided, several dead pups were found, presumably killed by the surf beating and dashing them against the rocks before they were old enough to breast the tide. The greater number were found dead on Tolstoi rookery. In taking the number, 5,500 seals, on St. Paul Island this season no drives were made from either Zapadnie rookery or Northeast Point, as the required number was easily obtained where short drives could be made; and as these are two of the largest breeding rookeries on the island, I thought it advisable to give them absolute rest. The care and welfare of the native inhabitants of the islands, the obligations of the North American Commercial Company under their lease, was a matter to which I gave special attention. The widows and orphan children who lived with them I found well provided for as to food and clothing by the lessees. But another class of orphans, who had neither father nor mother, had been placed among other families on the islands, who were not supported by the lessees. They were subjects for Government support, and these orphans in this way were being furnished food and clothing at Government expense, too. I at once obtained a list of the widows and orphans, showing just who they were supporting as company charges. It is marked Exhibit C. I then prepared a list of the widows and orphans whom I deemed proper subjects for their support under their lease, and presented the same to Mr. George E. Tingle, superintendent of the company, which he accepted, agreeing to care for all those named, though under protest. A copy of the list and Mr. Tingle's protest are hereto attached and marked Exhibits D and E. The only occasion for protest upon the part of the lessees being that of furnishing support to the few widows and'orphans having to their credit small sums of money left them, I insist, from the reading of the lease, that the lessees are compelled to support all the widows and orphans upon the islands, regardless of whether they may have personal means of support or not, while the lessees contend that they are only liable for the support of absolute pauper widows and orphans. Upon this question I respectfully request a ruling of the Department, that future trouble may not arise in this respect. After becoming sufficiently acquainted with the natives on the island to be able to associate the proper names with the proper faces, I observed that one Maxim Krukoff, an imbecile, John Krukoff, John N. Krukoff, George Kochergin, and Valerian Shaisnakoff, minors of tender years, had been placed upon the sealers'list and permitted to draw rations as such at Government expense. I thought this a mistake, so I served notice on the lessees' superintendent that these parties would be discontinued from the sealers' list and would revert to the company for their support. A copy of the notice is marked Exhibit F. DIVISION OF COMMUNITY FUND ON ST. PAUL AND ST. GEORGE ISLANDS. Notwithstanding the fact that there was a shortage fund in the skins taken and salted on St. Paul Island as compared with the count on the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 411 day of shipment, yet the division of the community fund was made upon the basis of the number as counted into the salt house, 5,500. This count, at 50 cents each, made a total of $2,750, and was divided among the natives in first, second, third, and fourth classes, as shown by report of division hereto attached and marked Exhibit G. The division on the island of St. George was made upon the basis of the count of skins taken by the lessees from the islands. The number of skins, 2,007, at 50 cents each, amounted to $1,003.50, which was divided into four classes, as shown by report marked Exhibit H. These divisions were made by the superintendent of the lessees' company, the chiefs of the respective islands, and myself. BLUE FOX SKINS—CATCH OF 1892 AND 1893. On the island of St. George during the winter of 1892 and 1893 there was caught by the natives 928 blue foxes, 7 of which were rejected by the lessees, leaving 921 prime skins, which were disposed of by the agent in charge to the lessees for $2 apiece, making a total of $1,842, to be. distributed among the natives making the catch, as shown by report marked Exhibit I. On St. Paul Island there were 374 foxes taken by the natives, 337 of which were blue and 37 white. These were disposed of by Lieutenant Ainsworth for the natives to the lessees for $2 each for the 337 blue foxes and $1 each for the white ones, making a total of $711, which was credited to the parties making the catch in the same manner as is shown by the report of fox-fund distribution on St. George Island. (See Exhibit I.) I have ordered that the catch of blue foxes be limited to the month of December, 1893, and that the price fixed for the skins taken be $5 apiece. The cause for limiting the time for one month for trapping was, in my judgment, necessary for the preservation of the foxes. It is suggested in my instructions in connection with the blue fox trapping that if a trap could be contrived in such a way as to prevent injury to the fox, and all females so caught turned loose, such a course would tend to increase the supply of these valuable animals. Such a method would certainly be an advantage if it were possible to carry it into effect; but at least two obstacles will be in the way of making this method a success. First, to invent a trap sufficiently large to hold a fox without doing him some bodily injury, and devising a plan to induce the wary fox into it; second, to take chances on the native trapper, who has probably tramped across the island from five to seven times a week through cold and snow knee deep, having convictions of honesty and courage enough, when he comes to his trap and finds the only fox he has caught that week to be a female, to turn it loose. I advised, however, that this sort of a box trap be tried as an experiment. To avoid the wholesale slaughter of foxes, the better plan would be to adopt the rule of only trapping foxes every alternate winter until they have increased sufficiently to warrant a more frequent limited catch. As to the mortality among the natives on the islands, I herewith submit copies of reports made by the physicians employed by the North American Commercial Company under their lease. It is marked Exhibit J. During the months June, July, and August, while I was upon the islands, the health of the native inhabitants was good. The native sealers were ever ready and able to perform any and all such labors as they were called upon to perform, whether it was to drive and kill seals, work upon streets and roads, or to stand guard upon the rook- 412 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. eries day and night. No complaint was ever made by them. In the month of June they were provided with ample clothing to keep them comfortable in that cold, damp climate until the coming June. Beds and bedding were furnished families who had been sleeping on the floors so far as it was possible to obtain them. It is a patent fact to all those who have noticed the condition of health and appearance of the natives the past few years since the Government has taken the matter in hand and furnished them with beds and compelled them to sleep upon them instead of on the floor, where they were subject to cold draughts and dampness and noxious vapors arising from the cesspools which served in lieu of privies, that this improvement of condition has had more to do with their present healthy condition than anything else. During the fall of 1892 there were 4 privies of 4 rooms each built for native families on the island St. Paul, thus furnishing privies for 16 families. These families soon became accustomed to the use of them and took great pride in keeping them clean. For the bettering of the sanitary condition of the village, I would recommend that a privy be built for each native family on the islands. The island of St. George is wholly unprovided for in this respect. The natives are compelled to use a vessel in the house and dump the excrement in a wheelbarrow, which stands by the door until it is loaded ready to wheel away. It is either this or the practice of stepping out doors and being exposed to the gaze of the rest of the villagers, which is worse. This state of affairs does not tend toward civilization, nor to decency or morality. I do, therefore, urge the early correction of this evil by furnishing them privies. SCHOOLS UPON THE ISLAND. Much has been reported by Treasury agents upon the subject of schools during the past twenty years. Many suggestions for their improvement have been made, yet the same system stands to-day as at the beginning. If it is the purpose of the Government to educate, enlighten, and civilize these people, some change in the school system will have to be made. I have no especial reason to censure the teachers employed on the islands for their apparent failure to teach the English to these children; neither is it the fault of the children on account of their dullness that they do not learn. It is, in my opinion, far more the fault of the parents, who get their incentive from the priest and church upon the islands, than either teachers or children. If these children were removed from this home influence and instructed by the same teachers, I am inclined to the belief that there would be more advancement in one year than there is under the present system in a whole school lifetime. I would therefore recommend a boarding school, in charge of a husband and wife who have had a successful experience in this line, or an industrial school for both boys and girls, teaching domestic industries. If, however, the present system must be continued, I most earnestly request that the school year begin on April 1 and continue eight months, thus giving the children the benefit of the long days and best season of the year instead of the short, dark, cold days of midwinter. August 24 the information came to me from the superintendent of the lessee's company that a sum of money, between $400 and $500, had been handed him by Father Eezoff, priest on St. Paul Island, with a request that he transfer the same to the authorities of the Greek Catholic Church at San Francisco, Cal. This money had been gathered from the natives on the island during the past two years. I requested the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 413 superintendent to return this money to the priest, which he did, declining to remove the money from the island. Upon my arrival at St. George I was confronted by the same proposition. There was about $300 on St. George Island. This sum was likewise refused to be taken from the island by the lessees. When I arrived at Dutch Harbor I requested Capt. Nicoli Ludlow, commander of the fleet, to instruct the captains of the several vessels doing patrol work about the islands not to convey said church funds from the islands. A copy of the letter is inclosed, marked Exhibit K. Were these natives earning in their own right a sufficient sum of money to support themselves and not dependent upon the Government for their maintenance, one might see some justice in their contributing a respectable portion of their earnings to their church on the islands; but in no instance should priests be allowed to send from the islands the money contributed for the support of the churches thereon. But inasmuch as the Government is furnishing the greater part of their support, the only money they handle being a possible $4 to $6 per week given them for each week's subsistence during the time the community sealing fund lasts, it seems to me an outrage and an injustice that whatever part of this small pittance the priest may demand is forthcoming, though the family starve. Under the present condition of affairs on the islands every dollar that is taken from the native's portion of the community sealing fund is virtually taken from the United States Treasury, for so soon as this fund is exhausted the Government furnishes the native the means of subsistence. For this reason I directed that the money should remain on the islands until instructions could be obtained from your Department as to the proper disposition to be made of the same. COAL SUPPLY. In addition to the 80 tons of coal provided under the terms of the lease the company furnished under their special contract with the Government 290 additional tons, making a total of 370 tons delivered at the islands. This was distributed as follows: On St. Paul Island—for Government house, 10 tons; for use of natives, 250 tons. On St. George Island—for Government house, 10 tons; for use of natives, 100 tons. It was found at the time of delivering coal at St. George Island there was on hand about 15 tons of coal left from the supply of 1892. Considering this amount, I thought 100 additional tons for the natives sufficient, and made the delivery accordingly. While the quantity of coal was delivered by the company in accordance with their contract the quality was anything but first class, there being among it a large proportion of soft slack coal, which burns very rapidly and gives but little heat in return. At present there is no coal house upon either of the islands sufficient to hold the amount of coal delivered for the natives. The North American Commercial Company this season furnished buildings on the islands to shelter the greater part of the coal delivered. The remainder of the coal on St. Paul was put in a small building arranged last season by the Treasury agents for the purpose of smoking seal meat, which proved to cure well, but was a failure in the way of getting the natives to use the meat, so the building was converted into a coal house. The building furnished by the company on St. Paul, though the best they could do, was so open that it subjects the coal to about the same fall of rain and snow as if left out of doors. I most earnestly urge the necessity of building a coal house on each 414 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. of the islands; the one on St. George with a capacity of storing 150 tons, and one on St. Paul of 250 tons. The issue of coal to the widows was a question on the islands again this season, it being contended by the lessees that the purpose of sending an additional amount of coal to the islands this year over former years was that the issue might be made by the Government to the widows the same as to other native families. This opinion was likewise concurred in by Agent Murray, who made the requisition for the 50 additional tons of coal. After ascertaining that there was a sufficient amount delivered to warrant this issue to the widows I ordered that the same be done, first obtaining an agreement from the lessees that should the Department not sustain the act of such issue, but on the contrary hold that the lessees should furnish the widows fuel, the amount of coal so issued should be returned next season to the islands free of charge. A copy of the agreement is hereto attached and marked Exhibit M. I therefore submit the matter for permanent settlement by the Department. INTOXICATING LIQUORS AND QUAS. Soon after our arrival at St. Paul Island, and about the time the cargo of the Farallon was unloaded, some three or four of the natives were discovered to be under the influence of liquor. Agent Murray investigated as to where the liquor was obtained, and learned from the •natives by their own confession that they got it from the assistant engineer of the company's steamer. As soon as this fact was learned by the captain of the Farallon this assistant engineer was discharged, and though the vessel returned to the island two trips afterwards" no intoxicants were obtained from it by the natives. As to quas brewing on the islands during the past winter and summer, there was but little of it indulged in. Agent Ainsworth informed me that the natives acted remarkably well in this respect during the winter while he was in charge. During my stay on the islands this summer there was but one notable evidence of a brew. This was on July 11, St. Paul's Day, the great holiday among the natives, as it is their island's name day. During that evening some of them became unusually good natured, none were otherwise, and all retired at a respectable hour that night, and were ready to resume labor early in the morning. In this respect the natives have certainly improved, from what I can learn of their former life. On the 29th day of June the Corwin arrived at St. Paul Island, ready to do patrol duty. Captain Munger called at the Government House, and being informed that a vessel of no kind, so far, had been sighted from the islands, returned the second day following to Dutch Harbor for coal. On the 4th of July a brig-rigged vessel was sighted a few miles to the westward of Northeast Point rookery. The watchman there telephoned its appearance to the village about noon. At 2 o'clock that afternoon some natives fishing discovered two sailboats near shore, not far from Southwest Bay rookery, and claimed to have heard shots fired from these boats. Accompanied by additional armed watchmen, Agent Adams and myself proceeded to Northeast Point and Southwest Bay, where we remained all night upon the rookeries. About sunset in the evening the two sailboats that had been discovered near shore were seen returning to the schooner then lying about 4 miles off to the westward, between Zapadnie and Northeast Point rookeries, where it lay until about 10 o'clock the following day, when it made a detour of ti)ie island, leaving in a southeasterly direction about 4 o'clock in the ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 415 evening. On the 9th of July another schooner was sighted close inshore to the westward of the village of St. Paul. At this time there was an exceedingly heavy fog. When the vessel was first discovered, she was heading toward Southwest Bay rookery. Additional guards, accompanied by myself, again went to the rookery. The watchmen at Southwest Bay reported to me when I arrived there that the schooner came almost within gunshot reach from the rookery. It changed its course to the northwest and soon disappeared in the dense fog. These were the only evidences of attempted raid or seal poaching on the seal islands during the season, notwithstanding newspaper reports to the contrary. In a few days after the appearance of the second schooner, Commander Nicoli Ludlow, of the war ship Mohican, arrived at the islands,, He was informed of the appearance of the schooners, and from that time to the time of my departure from the islands there was no time but what there was one or more vessels of the fleet doing active patrol duty around the islands. There was not a request made by a Treasury agent of the commander or captain of any vessel of the fleet but what was granted with promptness and dispatch. Captain Hooper, of the Bush, informed me that an order had been given that an armed boat's crew of marines in charge of an officer should be landed upon each of the islands, to remain in the villages as a "reserve guard." I do not consider a guard stationed thus in the villages of any value whatever toward protecting the rookeries. The native guard stands watch upon the rookeries from 4 to 12 miles from the village. They make faithful watchmen and are perfectly wiiling to perform this service. If a raid is attempted on the rookeries it is either during a dense fog or the darkness of night. Before the watchmen on the rookeries could go to the village and alarm the officer of the marines and they march to the scene of the raid, the poachers would have their boats loaded with seals and pulled away from the rookery, ready to be picked up by the schooner. If we are to keep a sufficient number of native watchmen on the rookeries that a part of them can hold the raiders off while the "reserve guard" is being sent for, the same number of watchmen can hold them off for all time to come. Under competent direction the natives are able and willing to guard the rookeries, and are found to perform the service efficiently and thoroughly. If a telephone line were constructed from Northeast Point and Southwest Bay rookeries on St. Paul and Zapadnie7~and East rookeries on St. George, to the Government House on each of the islands, so the native watchmen on the rookeries could notify the Government agent of the appearance of a vessel when first sighted, that he might be in close communication with the watchmen, instructing them how and when to act, I have no fear of a successful raid ever being made again on the islands. The cost of the construction and maintenance of these lines would be nominal, as the natives could perform the greater part, if not all, the work of erecting and keeping them up after the material is once furnished. In July Commander Ludlow delivered to the agent on each of the islands 500 cartridges, Nos. 45 to 70, for use of native watchmen. STAGEY REJECTED SKINS. During the fall killing of 1892 there were 121 stagey skins taken on St. Paul Island. They were all rejected by the lessees. Having no instructions from the Department as to what disposition should be made of this class of skins, I permitted the lessees to take them, as 416 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. well as the undersized skins rejected, from the island, under promise that they would settle for same at the Department. I respectfully ask a ruling on this point: What shall be done with the stagey and undersized rejected skins in the future? During the winter of 1892-93 a disagreement arose between Agent Ainsworth and the company's local agent on St. Paul Island, which was carried to the extent that the Government agent was refused the privilege of the mess at the company house, compelling him to have his meals cooked and carried to him at the Government House by a native woman during the remainder of his stay on the islands. As to who was to blame in the matter will more fully appear in the report of Lieutenant Ainsworth to me, herewith submitted, to which I call attention for particulars. During the month Agent Ainsworth remained at the Government House after being relieved from duty, he impressed me as being a pleasant, courteous gentleman. As a Government agent he certainly knew but one course; that was strictly in the line of his duty as laid down for him to perform. I herewith submit a revised census of the seal islands up to date, June 30,1893, marked Exhibit L. I have information from Agents Adams and Hall, on the seal islands, of date October 28, 1893, stating that no attempted raids had been made upon the islands, and that the guard had been reinforced on all the rookeries, preparatory to the withdrawal of the fleet from Bering Sea November 1. The health of natives on the islands remains good; the existing relations between the Government and the company agents being most amicable. Eespectfully submitted. Joseph B. Crowley, Chief Treasury Agents. The Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Report of Acting Special Agent D. J. Ainsworth. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, June 3, 1893. Dear Sir : I have the honor to make the following report of affairs on the island of St. Paul while acting United States Treasury agent from September 7, 1892, until June 3,1893. I landed on the island from the United States Eevenue Steamer Corwin, August 21,1892, and on the departure of Assistant Agent Joseph Murray on the lessees' steamer Bertha, I began to discharge my duties as acting United States Treasury agent in charge of the island. On September 11 H. M. S. Melpomone arrived and British commissioner Macoun came ashore and I accompanied him on a visit to Eeef Eookery. Later in the day the executive officer, Lieutenant Stoddard, came on shore and accompanied Commissioner Macoun and myself on a visit to the rookeries at Zapadnie, English Bay, Middle Hill, and Tolstoi. In the evening they returned to the vessel, intending to land and visit the other rookeries at Halfway and Northeast Points on the following day, but a heavy sea prevented them from landing, and the Melpomone left for Unalaska, after which no British vessels visited the island. September 13,500 cartridges were landed from the United States Eevenue Steamer Bush for use of the Government. The same day I wrote ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 417 to the commanding officer requesting that 500 additional cartridges and 6 Springfield rifles be sent. No additional cartridges could be sent, as Assistant Agent Lavender, at St. George Island, would probably require some, but the 6 Springfield rifles were brought ashore. There are now 12 Springfield rifles and 540 cartridges on the island belonging to the Government. After the lessees' steamer sailed, the natives were allowed to drive sea- lion pups for food at Northeast Point. This gave them some fresh meat, which they required, as no seals had been killed since the stagey season began, August 10. About the same time a whale drifted ashore at Northeast Point and the natives saved considerable blubber. With this exception, Saturdays for delivering coal and an occasional day for fishing, weather permitting, the natives were kept busy during the autumn at various jobs. Two new watch houses were erected at Halfway Point and Zapadnie, privies constructed at the village, and roads and paths improved; also dug slop holes and sodded up around the natives' houses. Besides this work, men had to watch rookeries. Several days were spent at the wreck of the brig Alexander, lost April 12,1892. Considerable wood was saved for fuel and later in the season can be brought to the village by boat. The sails, cordage, etc., were headed up in casks ready for removal. The two anchors would have been saved, but the heavy surf prevented the natives from approaching them. It was my intention not to kill seals before November 15, so as to take as few stagey ones as possible, but November 10 a fresh gale from the northwest with frequent squalls of snow and hail threatened to drive the seals from the island, and there being a possibility of its continuing several days, seals were driven and killed the following day. Toward night of the following day the weather, however, moderated. Besides killing seals near the village during the months of November and December, the watchmen at the different stations killed some for food. Pursuant to instructions from the Department, the company was allowed to choose the skins it desired. In case of those killed for food of the watchmen, the men, before leaving the village for the watchhouses, were informed by the company's agent of the kind to kill. The last seals were taken at Northeast Point, and for watchmen's food, on the 16th of December. Altogether 780 fur seals were killed, of which number there died on the killing field 1 pup, and on the road from the rookeries 3 seals. I weighed 767 of the above number at the salt house, used Fairbanks scales, and put 20 on at a time when possible. The following are the weights of the 767 fur seals, all of which were killed in November and December, 1892: Large prime. Medium prime. Large stagey. Medium stagey. Number of skins. Pounds. Number of skins. Pounds. Number of skins. Pounds, i ^mber of skins. Pounds. 65 80 83 27 81 11 52 621 797 877 281 737 106 478 25 74 24 42 55 16 59 8 34 1 178 324 468 125 452 69 259 6 13 19 12 10 13 13 133 216 113 100 119 120 8 7 4 3 5 3 g 62 57 33 24 36 21 68 3 8 410 Average.. 3,996 O308 a4TTJ 239 Average.. 1,881 7208 '235 80 Average.. 801 1 38 10BV Average. 301 735 '35 H. Doc. 92- -27 418" ALASKA INDUSTRIES. November 15 the foxing season began, and closed January 20. Altogether 374 skins were taken, viz, 337 blue and 37 white. The greatest number taken by any native was 25, which were caught by Kerrick Artomonaf, the oldest man on the island. November 22 the United States revenue steamer Bear arrived and landed Eev. Yassily Shishkin, who came on business connected with the Greek Church. He landed at 10 a. m. and was to return to the vessel at 4 p. m., but at that time there was too much sea for communication by boat, and the Bear left. She again returned November 26, but the sea being too rough to send a boat, she sailed and Was not seen again. This was the last time a vessel was seen until April 25,1893. Thanksgiving Day and Christmas passed pleasantly and special services were held at the Greek church in honor of those days. During the Christmas holidays, which lasted several weeks, I gave the natives the usual supply of sugar, canned milk, jellies, sweet crackers, etc., and noticed and heard of no drunkenness and its attendant wife beating. The winter was mild and the lowest temperature was 9° below zero, which was during the first week in January. The following week the weather was much milder. On the 13th of March one of the native women broke into the company's store and stole considerable goods. The key of the store was left hanging in the company's office, where the woman procured it. She had twO accomplices, all three of whom were punished by imprisonment. On searching several houses of people suspected goods were recovered to the value of $208. With the exception of this crime and a few petty offenses, the natives have behaved well. On April 25, at 10 a. m., a whaling steamer, bark rigged, was sighted to the southward of this island. Agent Eedpath, of the North American Commercial Company, had a flag hoisted at the East Landing without consulting me. Hauled the flag down and wrote the following letter: Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, April 25, 1893T Sir: You are informed that the law prohibits anyone from landing on this island except hy authority of the Secretary of the Treasury, and you had no authority to set a Hag at the East Landing inviting a whaling vessel in sight to come hero. The flag, which was set without my permission, has been seized, and will be held until tbe matter can be laid before the Department. You are hereby prohibited from setting any flag to invite anyone to come to the island of St. Paul. Respectfully, yours, D. J. Ainsworth, Second Lieutenant, U. S. li. M., Acting United States Treasury Agent, in charge St. Paul Island, Alaska. J. C. Redpath, Esq., Local Agent North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska. The following day (April 26), after dinner at the company's house, Local Agent J. C. Eedpath, of the company, handed me the following letter: North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska, April 26, 1893. Sir: Owing to your peculiarly obnoxious actions and manner, and especially after your outrage of yesterday in hauling down and seizing the United States flag belonging to the North American Commercial Company (the right of hoisting same having nover been questioned during the twenty-three years of the leases of the old and new companies), and the insulting letter following the act, yon are hereby informed that your presence at the company's house can not be tolerated except on business. You will therefore, at your earliest convenience, make other arrangements for hoard and washing, as you have facilities for doing so. If you wish to have your ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 419 cooking done at the Government house the company will furnish you free of cost with an outfit, viz, stove, cooking utensils, tableware, etc., which are to be returned when you are done with them. Also will sell you such supplies of food as are on hand and you may require. This arrangement, being entirely a personal matter, will not interfere with the transaction of the legitimate business between the Government and North American Commercial Company. Respectfully, J. C. Redpath, Agent North American Commercial Company. Lieut. D. J. Ainsworth, Acting Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island, Alaska. After receiving this letter I took supper at the Government house, the same being prepared for me by the janitor and his wife, and have dined in this manner since. I afterwards had a portable flagstaff made for use of the Government, and wrote this letter to the company's agent: Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, May 29,1893. Sir: I would inform you that the Government now having a portable flagstaff, I reserve the exclusive right of setting a flag at either of the landings for vessels coming to the island. There now being no necessity for using the old flagstaffs the halliards have been unrove and will be retained with the flag seized on the 25th ultimo until the Department renders a decision in regard to the matter. The flagstaffs remain intact. Respectfully, yours, D. J. Ainsworth, Second Lieutenant, U. S. B. M., .Acting United States Treasury Agent, in charge Si. Paul Island, Alaska. J. C. Redpath, Esq., Local Agent North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, Alaska. On May 19 drove seals for natives' food from Eeef Eookery and killed 192, of which number 190 were prime and 2 skins cut. June 1 made another drive from Eeef Eookery for natives' food and killed 147, all of which were prime with the exception of 1 small and 1 cut. Besides those mentioned, 14 seals have been killed at the watch- houses for watchmen's food. This makes the total to date (June 3) taken this year 353. Of this number I weighed 348 at the salt house, put 20 on at a time when possible, with the following result: Large prime— 252 skins, weight 2,619 pounds; average, 10-2a5%. Medium prime—92 skins, weight 734 pounds; average, 7-ff. Small—1 skin, weight 7 pounds. Cut—3 skins, weight 27 pounds; average, 9. Total number, 348; total weight, 3,387 pounds; average, 9fff. Pursuant to instructions from the Department, the company were allowed to choose the skins they desired, and the watchmen before leaving for their watch stations were informed by the company's agent of the kind of seal to kill for food. Comparing the number killed this year with the number mentioned in a previous part of this report, the total number killed by me while acting United States Treasury agent is seen to be 1,133. On the 3d instant the lessees' steamer Farallon arrived with yourself aud Assistant Agents Murray and Adams and I was relieved from duty. I have used my best endeavors to serve coal so no one should suffer, and at the same time not waste it. The widows were given a supply whenever I did not consider the quantity issued them by the North American Commercial Company sufficient. Also extra coal was issued in case of sickness. An account was kept of all the coal issued to widows as well as others. Eeferring to the issue of coal, I would state that I have been informed 420 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. that in former days when natives used less coal, seal blubber was very plentiful, since 8'5,000 seals were killed here every year. This blubber placed on the fuel added greatly to its durability, being greatly like a lamp wick fed by oil. Seventy-five pounds of coal in those days went as far as 300 or more now. As last winter was mild the expenditure of coal was less than will occur during ordinary winters. Two hundred and fifty tons will not ordinarily be too much. I would request your attention to the, coal house in which part of the Government coal is stored, the remainder being stored in the company's coal house. It was erected by the natives and has a small shed attached, built by the company. It is too small, the house and shed both holding about 140 tons. The weather here is at times very severe, and it is necessary, until considerable coal has been removed, to stand out for considerable time exposed to the weather while coal is being issued. This is very severe for people who are inclined to be consumptive. I would recommend a coal house which will hold 350 tons, where, if that amount will not probably be stored, a shelter will be afforded from the weather. Any extra room can be utilized for storage of wheelbarrows, picks, rakes, axes, spades, and shovels for village work, should the Department decide to furnish such. Also water buckets for use in case of fire. The first native came for assistance on the 29th of October, and the number gradually increased until on your arrival 28 families were being supported by the Government. I endeavored to serve these destitute people with what was necessary, and not be extravagant, and I am confident that no one suffered. « I found on my visits to the widows and other dependents of the company that they were reasonably well supplied with the necessaries of life, and I have no cause for complaint against the company. The company's last issue of dried salmon to the natives was September 10, when 2,000 pounds were issued. This exhausted their supply of dried salmon. About March 1 the natives stopped using the salt salmon, claiming that it was not good. The cook at the company's house cooked me some which was said to be taken from a barrel the natives had been using. On eating it at the table with the others I noticed nothing the matter with it. On telling some of the natives of the fact they said that was true for two or three times, but after that the fish would taste bitter. At any rate the natives stopped using it, and the company issued canned salmon to those whom they were supporting. In May the natives were employed at village work when the weather permitted. At first the ground was found frozen, and work was delayed until it had partially thawed out. Some of the men were required to guard rookeries. I have mentioned in the first part of this report how the men were employed last autumn. Three new privies were erected last fall for use of the natives. It was the intention to build 6 new ones as an experiment, the material being furnished by the company free of cost, but to be constructed by the natives at no expense to the company. The company's agent could only furnish material for 3, as the lumber was scarce. He, however, gave an old privy which stood near the billiard hall, and another which was near the north end of the village, on the first street. The new ones were each divided into 4 compartments and one of the old ones divided ALASKA INDUSTRIES1. 421 into 2, which furnish accommodations for 14 families. The old one near the end of the village was moved farther up the street near which it stood, so as to be near the inhabited houses. It was very hard to move, as it required 26 men to lift it. To put it in place will require the removal of considerable earth, which can be done when working on the new road. The privy sinks are each 10 feet deep, and with the other dimensions give to each about 80 feet of cubical contents. As yet they have not been used much, which is probably due to the cold weather preventing them from visiting places they were not accustomed to. I am confident, however, with the warm weather they will learn to use them and continue their use during all seasons. The school opened September 5 and closed April 28, the last two days being Saturday and Sunday. The number of pupils then on the rolls was 38, namely, 21 boys and 17 girls. During the term I noticed no attempt by anyone to interfere with the children acquiring a knowledge of the English language. The teacher asked me to allow him to explain things to the scholars in their own language, as they could more readily understand, and the priest wanted permission to hang a holy picture up in the school, as he thought the scholars would behave better. I informed them that it would be necessary to refer the matter to you before granting their requests. As the winter was mild the attendance was excellent. There was no difficulty in having the scholars attend, as the school is popular with them, being comfortable, and no studying done at home. A number of the pupils' parents have expressed a wish to have the school open throughout the year. I think it would be beneficial. If this is not done school could be continued during May, June, and July, and the months of December, January, and February given as holidays. As the lease provides for eight months' school, but does not state which months, it would entail no expense to the Government. In case of school being continued throughout the year the Treasury agent should be authorized to close the school during severe weather. The school is as good as can be expected from the manner in which it is conducted, but I am confident that the amount of English which the scholars learn is very small. The only way to have them learn to any extent is to send them to live at some school similar to the Jesse Lee Home at Unalaska, kept by Mr. and Mrs. Tuck, where they will talk English and be with people who only speak that language. As it is now, except during school hours, while reciting or speaking to the teacher, they rarely hear the language spoken. At church they hear no English spoken, as the service is conducted in Eussian and Aleut. Last summer when seal meat was plentiful, as an experiment a considerable quantity was salted and smoked for the use of the natives during the winter months and the stagey season. It was not successful, however, as only five or six of them asked for it, and after one trial they asked for no more, saying that it was no good. The population of St. Paul Island to day (June 3) is 196, of which number 9 are in the school at Unalaska. The population of St. Paul Island June 30, 1892, was also 196. The following statement will give you an idea of the changes which have taken place: On the island June 30,1892,190; births, 7; gain by arrivals of former residents, 3; returned from school at Unalaska, 1; total, 201. Deaths on St. Paul Island, 7; decrease by removals, 2; left for school at Unalaska, in September, 1; in November, 4; now residing on St. Paul, 187. At school in Unalaska, 6; death, 1; returned 422 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. to St. Paul, 1; joined school from St. Paul in September, 1; in November, 4; total scholars from St. Paul in school, 9. Population of St. Paul Island, 196. Of the 7 deaths mentioned, 2 were of consumption, 1 of pneumonia, 1 of cancer, 1 Bright's disease, 1 epilepsy, and 1 infants' complaint. Of the 7 births, 3 were illegitimate. The health of the people has been and continues good. On my arrival Here last August there were a large number of carcasses of dead pups at the rookeries, there having been a heavy mortality among them. August 22 I visited the rookeries around Southwest Bay with British Commissioner Macoun, and he counted 190 dead pups on the sandy spit at the eastern end of Zapadnie Eookery, they having been washed up by the sea. I visited the place a number of times after and did not see any. Also noticed on my visits to the different rookeries the very slight mortality among the pups and other seals. The pups which were dead were probably killed by the larger seals crawling over them. The great difference between the mortality last summer and in the autumn was probably due to the pups being older, could take better care of themselves in the water, and were not killed by the sea breaking on the shore. The rookeries have been well guarded and no raids or attempted raids have been made on them. No sealing schooners have been seen. The last vessel seen in 1892 was the United States revenue steamer Bear, which left November 26. Since then the only vessels sighted were a whaling bark on the 25th of April and the lessees' steamer Farallon, on which you arrived June 3. The rookeries' watchmen were all withdrawn by the 16th of December; the few seals remaining were at the edge of the water, and the cold and stormy weather acted as a natural protection. Seals were seen as late as the 7th of January by natives hunting foxes at Northeast Point. There were 7 of them which had been caught by the arctic ice closing in on the north side of the Point and forcing them up on the land. They were afterwards seen in the neighborhood of the wreck of the brig Alexander after the ice had separated from the shore far enough to admit of their swimming. As usual, the old bulls hauled up before the bachelor seals. The first bachelors seen were in the water off the Eeef Eookery on the 12th of April; and it was at Zapadnie Eookery on the 27th of April the first old bull was seen to be hauled up. On the 5th of May the second chief, returning from Northeast Point, reported seeing 9 old bulls and about 100 bachelor seals hauled up. Stationed watchmen there on the 7th of May. On the 27th of the same month I saw numerous old bulls and about 1,800 bachelor seals hauled up at the Eeef Eookery. The same day watchmen were so stationed that all the rookeries on the island were guarded. I deemed this necessary, as no Government vessel had been seen. Up to the time of my being relieved no cows had been reported as hauling up. I would recommend that a good pair of night glasses be provided for the use of the Government House. Those here belong to the janitor and are no better for use at night than the naked eye. From the west bluff near the flagstaff a fine view can be had, and at night, in clear weather, a good lookout can be kept without walking down on the reef, as is now necessary, thus avoiding the possibility of disturbing the seals. Pairs of glasses for use of the watchmen at Zapadnie, Halfway Point, and Northeast Point would also be useful. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 423 I never visited the rookeries before last August, so can not compare them with past years. Eespectfully, yours, D. J. Ainsworth, Second Lieutenant, U. S. B. M. J. B. Crowley, Esq., United States Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Fisheries, St. Paul Island, Alaslca. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaslca, June 12, 1893. Dear Sir : Eeferring to the seizure of a flag and halyards belonging to the North American Commercial Company while I was acting United States Treasury Agent, of which I have informed you, I would say that, as the vessel never came to the island, it appears the Alaska Commercial Company had, and the North American Commercial Company have, during the two leases, set flags at the landings.whenever they desired, until they probably thought it was a right of theirs; and as I have been relieved from duty on this island and the matter no longer concerns me, I desire to drop the matter, and request that the flag and halyards be returned to the company. Eespectfully, yours, D. J. Ainsworth, Second Lieutenant, U. S. B. M. J. B. Crowley, Esq., United States Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Fisheries, St. Pa\d Island, Alaslca. Assistant Agent Murray ; Report for 1893. Fort Collins, Colo., November 1,1893. Sir: I have the honor to report that in pursuance of Department instructions, dated April 27, 1893,1 sailed from San Francisco May 13 on board the company's steamer Farallon) and landed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, on Saturday, June 3. I had sailed from St. Paul Island in September, 1892, and left the office in temporary charge of Lieut. D. J. Ainsworth, of the revenue marine, who was detailed to relieve me, and in whom I have found a very superior man and officer, one in whose charge the best interests of the Government and of the native people were well and diligently cared for. COAL SUPPLY. On March 10,1893,1 reported to the Department that in my opinion the Government ought to send to the islands annually 290 tons of coal in addition to the 80 tons supplied by the lessees under their lease; and that after deducting 20 tons for the two Government houses on the islands (10 tons each), the remaining 350 tons should be divided among the native inhabitants of the two islands. Now, I meant to include all the natives on both islands, 1 widows,. orphans, aged and indigent persons," as well as sealers and those who are able to work for themselves; but after the coal arrived at the islands there was a question raised as to who was entitled to a share of coal in accordance with law. It will be well, therefore, to call the attention of 424 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. the Department to this point and to have it settled beyond question, if possible. My own experience on the islands teaches me that so long as such questions are allowed to remain open the natives are wronged and left to suffer while agents wrangle over precedents and points of law; and it is my belief that it would be better for all concerned if the Government would take care of all the natives, without distinction of age, sex, or condition. The present supply of 370 tons of coal—20 tons to the Government houses and 350 to the natives—gives about 5 tons to every family, and so long as the quality is good there will not be any suffering for fuel; but it will be necessary to have the coal brought direct from the mine to the islands, for whenever it is left outdoors for a year or more at Unalaska it slakes out so much that it becomes little better than dust, and is entirely unfit for use in a stove. "HEIRS AND SAVINGS." When the modus vivendi went into effect, and not to exceed 7,500 seals were allowed to be killed. Congress made an appropriation of $19,500 for the purpose of supporting the natives, aud the agent in charge at that time decided that sealers should "spend and exhaust" their current earnings before they could draw rations or supplies from the Government. Afterwards it was discovered that a few of the natives, who had been more thrifty and economical than their fellows, had, in times of prosperity, hoarded some of their earnings, so that now they have small sums to their credit, or, being dead, the money has been given to their heirs. Therefore, the question has confronted the Treasury agents: Shall Government rations be issued to natives who have money to their credit, or shall we compel them to spend and exhaust their savings and bring them down to the common level of pauperism? My own opinion is that it would be unjust, as well as unwise and impolitic, to compel the thrifty and careful ones to come down to the level of the reckless and improvident creatures, who have not sense enough to make any provision for to-morrow. In all my dealings with the natives I aimed to teach them the value and use of time and money; and I encouraged them to save a part of their earnings, and to hoard it as long as possible for use in old age, or for their children's use after they themselves had passed away; and when issuing food or clothing, I made no distinction between the person who had money saved to his credit and the one who never hoarded a cent. I have held, and still hold, that so long as the natives are not to blame for the present depression in the sealing industry they should not be reduced to pauperism before receiving aid from the Government. And I most respectfully add that it would be a great improvement if the Government would provide all the necessaries of life, as well as fuel for, "widows, orphans, aged, and indigent persons," as well as for sealers and others. The present arrangement for providing for " widows, orphans, aged and indigent persons" is not satisfactory to anyone concerned in the matter, and it ought to be altered, even though the terms of the lease may have to be modified accordingly. SEALS. I made my fifth annual inspection of the rookeries (beginning in 1889 and ending in August, 1893), and I am convinced that the seals are ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 425 steadily decreasing every year, and that it will require the utmost care on the part of the Government to save them from total extinction. Among other precautions, it will be necessary for the preservation of the herd to prohibit the killing of the large young males whose skins weigh more than 9 pounds, and care should be taken that no seals are killed whose skins are so small that the lessees refuse to accept them and pay the necessary tax. So far as my information goes, the Department has never ruled upon the maximum and minimum weight of skins to be taken, and the consequence has been that every agent in charge of the islands established his own whim, without any two of them being alike; and this has led to a demoralization of the whole system of permanent rules for the guidance of Treasury agents, lessees, and native sealers. A good plan would be to prohibit the killing of seals whose skins weigh over 9 pounds, and to hold the lessees responsible for all undersized seals killed, excepting accidents. All rejected skins, whether cut, stagey, or small, should be salted separately and sold on Government account in San Francisco at the end of the sealing season. Seal skins and fox skins given to the natives are used exclusively for trading in liquor and other illicit articles which do not and can not benefit them in any manner, and therefore ought to be discontinued. GUARDING THE ROOKERIES. It will be necessary, too, to keep armed vessels in Bering Sea from June 1 to December 1 of each year, and not less than two swift cutters or cruisers should be employed in the immediate vicinity of the islands during the period named. It is not necessary, nor is it just or wise, to land armed crews of white men, soldiers or sailors, on the islands to guard the rookeries, for if the cutters are kept in the sea till the seals leave the islands in December there will not be any danger of marauders landing there. I most earnestly call the attention of the Department to the fact that the fewer strangers, whether guards, visitors, or others, allowed to land or dwell upon the seal islands, the better it is for the native people, who are rarely benefited by contact with white men. Until the Treasury agents in charge of the islands ask for additional guards it will be well for the Department to leave the care of the rookeries to the Treasury agents and the natives, well armed. Put a Winchester rifle into the hands of every adult male on the islands (they prefer 45-70) aud then put agents in charge who are physically able to walk over the rough ground when it becomes necessary to do so, and it will be found that no outsiders are needed there to do guard duty. Houses were built near the more exposed rookeries in 1892 for the comfort and convenience of the watchmen on guard duty, and I respectfully suggest that telephone lines be erected from such houses to the Government house on each island. A line from Southwest Bay and another from Northeast Point on St. Paul, and from Zapadnie and east rookeries on St. George would be all sufficient. It does appear strange, in the light of recent events, that so very little has been done for the proper protection of the rookeries, aud, stranger still, that there should be so little known of the real situation. The truth is this, the natives are able and willing to guard the seals on the rookeries, and they can do it easily and well if the Government will only provide the means to do it as it ought to be done. ■«** 426 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. To send white men, as a reserve guard, to remain in the villages while the natives go out from 6 to 12 miles to guard the seals, is to insult and injure every native man on the islands, and, if persisted in, will eventually end in blood. For the sake of peace—for the^ood of the native people—I suggest that no more white men, soldiers or sailors, be landed on the islands to do guard duty. FOXES. As the time has come when the Government must feed and clothe the natives of the seal islands, and as there is no immediate prospect of an increase of seals for years to come, I think it would be wise on the part of the Department to attempt to make the islands self- supporting, if it is possible to do so without meddling with the rights or privileges of others. The most valuable animal on the islands, next to the fur seal, is the blue fox, whose skin sells readily for $10 to $15, and which, under proper management, could be made to bring in a revenue sufficient to make the native inhabitants not only self-supporting, but far more comfortable than ever before. There is not a word in the lease about foxes, nor has the Department ever made a rule or regulation that is ever heard of on the subject; but the natives have been allowed to hunt and trap and slaughter them indiscriminately, until they are nearly exterminated. The skins were sold by the natives for a few cents each, or, occasionally, a drink of bad whisky. I think it is safe to say that 20,000 blue foxes were killed on the islands in the twenty years beginning with 1870 and ending with 1889, for which the natives received not to exceed 50 cents each, or $10,000, although the same skins actually sold for $200,000 in San Francisco. Now, I maintain that that sum of money should have been secured and saved for the natives, to be drawn upon in seasons of distress, like the present. I crave the serious attention of the Department to the question of foxes, and I respectfully suggest that regulations be made by which box traps shall be used exclusively, so that every vixen caught may be turned away uninjured and none but the males killed. The present barbarous method of taking foxes in the common steel trap, which maims everything caught, will eventually, if persisted in, exterminate the foxes on the Pribilof islands. By the use of the box trap, as suggested, and the establishment of a shorter hunting season for a year or two until the animals increase to their original number and splendor, there may soon be taken annuallv on the two islands 1,500 to 2,000 prime fox skins, that will sell for $20,000, a sum, I repeat it, amply sufficient to support, if judiciously expended, every man, woman, and child on the islands in a far better manner than they were supported in their best and most prosperous days. Simple justice requires that I should say the present lessees raised the price of fox skins, and are now paying $2 per skin. SCHOOLS, WATER, AND DRAINAGE. I have said so much about schools,, water, and drainage in former reports that I do not deem it expedient to repeat the story here; yet the subject is so very important to the unfortunate people, who have ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 427 no other way of reaching the Government, that I deem it my duty to ask you to endeavor to impress upon the Department the necessity of establishing Government schools on the seal islands, if the children are ever to be lifted out of the present degraded and degrading conditions. It is absolutely necessary, too, that water in abundance be brought into the villages on each island, and that a thorough system of drainage be established. I respectfully refer you to the plans drawn by J. Stanley-Brown, and accompanying his report to the Secretary of the Treasury for 1892. ORPHANS AT SCHOOL AT UNALASKA. In September, 1890,1 sent 6 orphan girls from St. Paul Island to the American school at Unalaska and subsequently 4 others have been sent there. I could and should have sent 30 orphan girls when I sent the 6 had there been room for them in the school, for I was anxious to put them into the hands of a Christian woman, whose heart is in the work of saving such children from a fate that is worse than death, and the result has more than satisfied me and justified the experiment. The majority of the children sent to this school were the poorest, lowest, dirtiest, and most ignorant on the islands, and they could not speak a word of the English language; and yet, after a term of two years, every one of them was able to write English as well as the average white school child of similar age. Three of the oldest have married, and 2 of them are housekeepers on St. Paul Island, where for morality, cleanliness, and good housekeeping they are models of excellence. It is for such a school I plead. Now I have been informed that the school at Unalaska has been abandoned by the good people whose charity kept it going, and the teacher asked me to issue some food and some clothing out of the Government appropriation to the orphans from the seal islands. I asked the general superintendent of the lessees to assist the orphans, and he told me the lessees would keep them as long as they remained on the islands and no longer. I felt that I could not issue food or clothing to orphans dependent on the lessees. Now the question, stripped of all disguise, is simply this: Are these gfrls to be sent back to the islands where nothing better awaits them than a life of shame, or will the Government allow its agents to issue food and clothing to them while they are at school at Unalaska, where they are being educated and civilized and cleaned physically and morally ? A long residence on the islands has given me an intimate knowledge of the people, their virtues, vices, wickedness, and wants, and my advice is, give the widows and orphans, aged, sick, and indigent the kindly protection of the Government, and if you can not establish good schools on the islands, where a Christian woman can care for the girls, send them to schools where they can have such care, and support them while at school. All of which is very respectfully submitted to the Department. Joseph Murray, Assistant Treasury Agent at the Seal Islands. Joseph B. Crowley, Agent in Charge of the Seal Islands. 428 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Assistant Agent Lavender; Report for 1893. St. George Island, May 1,1893. Sir : I have the honor to make you this synopsis of my report on the general condition of everything on this island that comes under the supervision of the officer in charge. My report made September 7,1892, doubtless you have seen. First. I inclose you a statement of seals killed from the end of the stagey season, October 20, to November 19, 1892, inclusive, showing that there were 11 drives of seals made, out of which 349 were killed and their skins accepted by the agent of the lessees. These 349 skins taken are now in the salt house, and completed our quota of 2,500 allowed to be killed on this island out of the 7,500 allowed to be killed on both islands under the modus vivendi. Killable seals were very scarce on the rookeries and I had considerable difficulty in obtaining the number required, and was obliged to go upon the rookeries and select the killable seals from among the cows after driving both together a short distance. This I thought preferable to driving a large number of cows to the killing grounds before making the selection. Prior to 1890 but one-fifth as many seals were taken yearly on this island as were taken on St. Paul, and it is my opinion that the condition of the rookeries at the present time will not admit of a larger proportion being taken out of the yearly catch without injury to the breeding grounds. No hulluschicke hauled out by themselves after October 28; the pups had most all gone, and there were but a few cows left upon the rookeries on that date. There has been a marked dimunition of seals upon this island since 1890. A few fur seals have been reported seen by the natives around the island all winter. The first bull seal hauled out on East rookery this year was on April 29. TRAPPING OF FOXES. Second. I inclose you a statement of the number of foxes taken by traps and in other ways during the past winter between November 15, 1892, and January 20, 1893. This statement will show you that there were 928 foxes killed, of which the skins of 921 were accepted and 7 rejected, they being worthless. The amount of money advanced by the North American Commercial Company, pending a decision frdm the Department, was x1}. per skin, or ! 1,842, all of which has been judiciously used for the maintenance of the natives, with the exception of $431 still in the hands of the company, on which orders will be issued weekly for the maintenance of the persons to whom the credit belongs. No Government orders have been issued to any person having a credit on their fox-skin account. There were 25 persons engaged in trapping and they have in use about 300 traps. Besides the number trapped, there was a large number of foxes taken from their burrows with a long piece of whalebone, which x^rior to 1891 they did not use. No foxes were taken on this island during the winter of 1891-92. The catch the past winter, in my opinion, was altogether too large; about 250 more than should have been caught. This industry, from which the Government derives a large revenue, if properly protected would go a long way toward maintaining the natives, now that the money paid them for taking seals is not enough for their support. The number of foxes trapped should be the guide to go by, instead of the dates between which they may be trapped. I do not think that any could be taken on the island during the coming ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 429 winter without danger of extermination. With one year's rest 700 could be killed annually. UNITED STATES IN ACCOUNT WITH THE ADULT NATIVES. Third. I inclose you a statement showing the financial standing of each male adult on the island with the United States. The debit and credit of each person is shown up to date. There has been labor performed to the amount of $1,117, divided as follows: For watching on the rookeries, $434.50; for making roads and other work under the direction of the officer in charge, $682.50. There have been 217 Government orders issued, amounting to $1,133.61, divided as follows: 210 orders to the natives for food, clothing, etc., $1,053.32; orders Nos. 28 and 29, for potatoes, divided by the chief, $6.68; orders Nos. 31 and 32, for wheelbarrows^ shovels, and other tools, $26.26; order No. 33, for 1 can of oil for use of lantern at Zapadnie, $1.50; order No. 42, for supplies to natives on watch prior to July, 1892, $16; otrder No. 213, for building and repairing watchhouses, $29.85. All the articles mentioned in orders Nos. 28, 29, 31, 32, 33, 42, and 213 were purchased for the use and comfort of the natives, and should come out of the appropriation. I thought it advisable to draw orders for the same. You will note that some of the accounts are largely overdrawn, while others have quite a sum to their credit. This was caused by some of the people having had money to their credit in the hands of the North American Commercial Company, while others had their accounts almost exhausted when I arrived on the island in June last. No orders for supplies were given to any person until his credit with the company was used up. This community has been well supplied with food, clothing, and other necessaries of life the past year. Fresh beef (canned) and tomatoes have been furnished to them once a week most all winter. I consider their condition at the present time as regards clothing better than it ever has been since I have known them. No complaints have been made during the year. If some arrangements could be made whereby they could be paid in cash at the end of each week for labor performed, more work would be done for less money than we are paying them now. They say that the company pays them in cash, while the work they do for the Government must be paid for in orders on the store of the North American Commercial Company. The officer in charge could take into consideration the amount of cash paid them when issuing orders for their supplies. MONEY TO THE CREDIT OF THE NATIVES. Fourth. I inclose you a statement showing the amount of money in the hands of the North American Commercial Company to the credit of the natives of this island. You will see that the total amount is $1,983.65, of which there is belonging to the priest $1,240.43; to the orphans, $334.07. Amount available for maintenance of natives, $409.15. The money due the orphans can only be used in the purchase of clothing on an order from the officer in charge. The $1.46 due Anfansia Prokopoff, $4.90 due Nicoli Nederazoff, $37.34 due Gregory Swetzoff, and $36.35 due Evdokia Philimonoff can be used in the purchase of clothing on an order from the Government officer. Nedesda Muculiff, one of the orphans, has a credit of $121.28; is attending school in Unalaska, where clothing and other necessaries are furnished free. She will not require any money for a long time. The 430 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. $120.14 due Demetri Lestenkoff, $90.40 due Michael Lestenkoff, and $118.56 due Evau Kulikoloff is the only money in the hands of the company that can be paid out in moderation without consulting the officer in charge. FREE-COAL ACCOUNT. Fifth. I inclose you. a statement of the native free-coal account, by which you will see that on July 31, 1892, there was weighed and receipted for 224,000 pounds. Since the 11th day of August, 1892, I have made 72 deliveries of 1,900 pounds each, 136,800 pounds; leaving a balance on hand of 87,200 pounds. From May 1 until August 11 the number of times that coal will be delivered will not exceed 20, or 38,000 pounds, which will leave a balance still on hand on the latter date of 39,200 pounds. I would recommend that 80 tons of coal be landed here this year for the free use of the natives, and I know that quantity will be sufficient for next year's use. SALT AND DRIED SALMON. Sixth. We have left over 8 barrels of salt salmon. If salt fish is to be landed this season instead of dried, 7 barrels will be sufficient; 15 barrels is all that is required. There is no use in having salt fish left over for future use. Fish when salted does not improve with age. There were 363 dried salmon landed here last September; the weight of each fish is about half a pound. I consider salt fish preferable to dried. Should the Department order dried salmon landed in the place of salt, I would recommend that 1,000 dried fish be put on shore for the free use of these people. CENSUS OF ST. GEORGE ISLAND. Seventh. I inclose you a census report of this island made May 1, 1893, by which you will see that the total number of native inhabitants is 86, of which 42 are males. The ages of the oldest and youngest native persons,outside of the priest and his wife, are as follows: The oldest male, 47 years; the oldest female, 51 years; the youngest male, 10 months; the youngest female, 1 year. The general health of the community has been good, but 2 deaths having occurred the past year, both children—one a boy of 2£ years and the other a girl of 8 years. For further particulars I refer you to a copy of a report made by Dr. L. A. Noyes, the resident physician. (See copy of report inclosed.) SCHOOLS. Eighth. I inclose you a copy of the school report made by Mr. Paul Mitchell, teacher for the North American Commercial Company, who has been very faithful in the performance of his duties, and I have no doubt has done as well as any teacher could under the circumstances. I do not think that much progress has been made in the way of education, nor do I believe that any can be made while the service of the Greek Church is conducted in the Eussian language. The church service has a tendency to neutralize all they learn in English while at school. Until some change takes place we can not look for more progress in the way of educating these people. It is astonishing to see both young men and women 20 years old and upward, who have attended school for ten years or more, that can not ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 431 read or write. There is not one of them that can read a Government order when they receive it. I would advise in future that nothing but English be allowed spoken by the scholars when in and around the schoolhouse during school hours. I CONDUCT OF THE NATIVES. Ninth. The natives have always been respectful in their demeanor toward the officer in charge and others in authority; have always been ready and willing to work whenever called on. They have made good roads all through the village and have almost completed a 4-foot trail from the village lake to East rookery. It was my intention to have good roads, which are badly needed, from the village to all the rookeries, in order that a person could go upon the rookeries after dark without danger. QUAS BREWING. It has always been the custom for these people to brew quas (beer) whenever they can. I can not see any way to prevent it. If they can not get jelly, sugar, sweet crackers, or some other kind of sweets, they will make a mixture from flour. I have not seen or heard of any disturbance caused by the use of quas during the past winter, and I have endeavored to impress upoi. their minds that the Government was desirous of having them become good, sober, and industrious citizens. While I know they have made quas, I do think that it has been made in less quantities than in former years. THE NORTH AMERICAN COMMERCIAL COMPANY. Tenth. The North American Commercial Company, through its general and local agents, have complied with the requirements of the lease on this island. They have painted, papered, and repaired in other ways, as far as their material would go, most of the native dwellings, have furnished new desks for the schoolhouse, and repaired the building in other ways to make it comfortable. They have furnished the widows and orphans food aud clothing in sufficient quantities. Salt and barrels for the curing of meat and fish have been furnished when asked for, as required by the lease. All goods sold have been sold at a reasonable price, and the goods have been first-class in every particular. School has been taught for the full term of eight months. There has been a competent physician on the island, and good medical atte ndance and medicines have been furnished the sick. Very respectfully, A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent, in charge of St. George Island. United States Treasury Agent, In charge of Seal Islands. HI 432 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. ENCLOSURES WITH SPECIAL AGENT CROWLEY'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1893. Exhibit A. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended , August 12, 1898. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives ' food. Date. Large young seals. Skins accepted by lessees. Skins rejected. Under size. Stagey. Cut. 1892. Nov. 11 Reef ■ 111 3 151 2 2 143 56 12 158 113 28 5 192 147 14 395 471 736 489 171 215 193 1,044 88 252 255 43 21 89 3 125 2 2 127 43 9 140 86 24 4 192 147 14 395 469 735 477 169 212 190 1,026 87 243 249 43 21 22 26 11 Northeast Point 12 Tolstoi and Middle Hill 12 Halfway Point 14 19 MiddleHill 1 1 1 1 1 6 I i! 14 13 2 18 22 4 1 22 Reef 22 Zapadnie 28 ..do Dec. 5 Reef 1 16 Killed by watchmen ...... . ..... 16 Reef 1893. May 19 June 1 ..do . 1 Watchmen to date for food ... 9 Reef.. 16 26 Tolstoi 1 July 6 10 Reef... Lukannon .......................... ....... 6 14 Middle Hill 1 17 Halfway Point 21 27 English Bay . . .... . ..... 1 AlI£T. 2 Garbotch and Lukanon 7 5 2 5 7 Zoltoi 1 12 Total 5,500 5,313 +23 52 121 14 Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 24, 1898. I certify the foregoing to be in exact accordance with the records of this office. On the 24th day of Augnst, 1893, the skins herein shown to have been rejected were overhauled and 23 of the undersized rejected skins were accepted by the lessees, leaving 36 undersized still rejected. J. B. Crowley, Treasury Agent. Exhibit B. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended August 2,1893, for food for natives. Date. Names of rookeries. 1892. Oot. 20 Northeast and Starry Atool 25 Zapadnie '. 26 Northeast and "Starry Ateel 28 North Nov. l Starry Ateel 2 East 3 Zapadnie 5 Zapadnie (by watohmen) 9 North 11 East 19 Zapadnie (by watchmen)... Total. Pelts accepted. 51 21 80. 50 15 53 54 A 54 7 Pelts rejected— under weight. 51 21 30 50 15 58 54 3 11 54 349 349 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 433 Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, etc.—Continued. Date. 1893. May 20 29 June 12 12 20 21 26 28 July 5 8 12 15 19 22 26 29 Aug. 2 Names of rookeries. Starry Ateel. North do Zapadnie (by watchmen). do East North and Starry Ateel.. Zapadnie (by watchmen). do '. East Zapadnie (by watchmen). North Zapadnie (by watchmen). Starry Ateel and North.. Zapadnie (by watchmen). East Zapadnie (by watchmen). Total Total. Pelts accepted. 49 49 132 132 197 196 2 2 2 2 278 277 555 545 2 2 2 2 90 89 2 2 92 92 4 4 171 169 4 4 65 59 4 4 2,000 1,979 Pelts rejected- under weight. 21 Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. George Island, Alaska, August 26, 1893. I certify the foregoing to be in exact accordance with the records of this office. But in the count preparatory to shipment the number of skins tallied 2,004. E. T. Hall, Assistant United States Treasury Agent. Exhibit O. List of widows and orphans supported by the North American Commercial Company on St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 23, 1893. 1. Bellaglazof, Ellen. Terrakanof, Mary. 2. Bolakshin, Matrona. Bolakshin, Agafiav Shaposhnikof, Parascovia. Rookavishnikof, Stepan. 3. Kozlof, Parascovia. Kozlof, Michael. Kozlof, Nikolai. Serebrenikof, Olga. Serebrenikof, Ripsemia. 4. Krukof, Anna. 5. Koshevnikof, Avdotia. Koshevnikof, Paul. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Popof, Afanasia. Shutyagin, Daria. Popof, Avdotia. Popof, Anna. Popof, Evrosina. Peeshnikof, Vasilisa. Rezanzof, Anna. Rookavishnikof, Anissia. Rookavishnikof, Parascovia. Rookavishnikof, Anna. Shutyagin, Ouleta. Tarantova, Anna. Tarantova, Anna. Exhibit D. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, August 23,1893. Sir: I herewith submit a list of widows, orphans, and other dependents whom I regard as proper subjects to be supported by the company under their contract with the Government, and respectfully request that you furnish them with such sustenance in the future as their comfort may require, etc. Respectfully, yours, Joseph B. Crowley, Treasury Agents Mr. George R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. H. Doc. 92 2S 434 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. List of widows, orphans, and others who are to be furnished food and clothing by the lessees. Name. Krukoff, Maxim, imbecile Krukoff, Eeotesta, wife Krukoff, John, son Krukoff, Condrat, son Balakshin, Matrona Balakshin, Agrafina, orphan Shaposshinkoff, Parascovia, orphan Rookovishnikoff, Stepan, orphan Bellaglazoff, Ellen Terrakanoff, Mary,, orphan Kosheonikoff, Avodita Kosheonikoff, 'Paul, son Merculiff, Martin, orphan Krukoff, Anna Krukoff, Natalie.: Krukoff, John, son Kozloff, Parascovia Kozloff, Michael, son Kozloff, Nicoli, son Serebrinkoff, Olga Serebrinkoflf, Repsemee, son Popoff, Avodotia Popoff, Evrosinia, daughter Balakshin, Anna, daughter Pushnikoff, Vassilica Popoff, Afanasia Shutyagin, Daria, orphan Rookovishnikoff, Annissa Rookovishnikoff, Anna, daughter Rookovishnikoff, Parascovia, daughter. Rezanzoff, Anna Shutyagin, Uleta Terrantova, Anna Terrantova, Anna, daughter Age. Male. Female. 38 29 13 14 a 10 35 30 a Months. List of widows, orphans, and others who are to receive clothing from the lessees. Residence. Name. Age. Male. Female. A. Arkshoff K. Buterin J. Glotoff N. Gromoff A. Galaktioneff.. J. Koohooten Do Do S. Nederazoff— P. Oustegoff V. Seduli K. Terrakanoff.. Do Do Peter Tetoff M. "Volkoff Do Do Eeolusia Tetoff, widow Irene Tetoff, daughter Sofia Tetoff, daughter Oxenia Prokopieff, widow Paul Merculiff, orphan Claudia Galaktioneff, orphan Zaohar Sediek, orphan Mary Glotoff, widow Elizabeth Sediek, orphan Oxenia Yatzmanoff, orphan Daria Sediek, widow Ellen Kochoten, daughter Zenobia Kochoten, daughter John Hopoff, orphan George Shaisnikoff, orphan Mary Muzeekan, orphan Agrifinia Nederazoff, orphan Alexia Nederazoff, son Maria Nederazoff, infant daughter Alexandria Tetoff, orphan Ellen Volkoff, orphan Maora Kushin, orphan John Merouliff, orphan. 12 12 11 Exhibit E. North American Commercial Company, St. Paul Island, August 28, 1893. Sir: Yours of this date received, inclosing a list of widows, orphans, and other dependents, whom you request the North American Commercial Company to support as proper subjects of their care under the lease. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 435 I respectfully protest against the company's liability to support those having considerable cash credits named by you in your list. Certainly such persons can not be regarded as dependents, therefore would not be a charge on the company. All others shall be provided as the company's contract requires and as you request, as also those having the credits, until such time as the difference in our construction of the lease between the Government and the North American Commercial Company can be adjusted by the Secretary of the Treasury at Washington. I am, respectfully, Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Hon. J. B. Crowley, United States Treasury Agent, St. Paul Island. Exhibit F. Office of Special Agent Treasury Department, St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 12, 1893. Sir : Since becoming personally acquainted with affairs on the island, I find that Maxim Krukoff; John Krukoff, aged 14 years, son of Maxim; John N. Krukoff, aged 14 years, son of Natalie Krukoff, a widow; George Kochergin, aged 15 years, son of Feclusia Tetoff, a widow, and Valerian Shaisnakoff, aged 15 years, an orphan, were this season placed on the list as sealers and permitted to draw rations and clothing from the Government. On account of the mental and physical condition of Maxim Krukoff, the immature age of John and John N. Krukoff, I deem it a mistake to have placed either of them on the sealers' list. Since they have performed such labor as they were able during the season, they will be permitted to draw each a boy's share in the community fund upon division, after the expenditure of which you will be expected to support them, as provided for under the contract between the Government and lessees. As to GeOrge Kochergin and Valerian Shaisnakoff, orders for clothing will be issued to them in the future only for their personal needs. Respectfully, yours, Jos. B. Crowley, Treasury Agent. Mr. Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent of North American Commercial Company. Exhibit GL Division No. 4—St. Paul Island. [August 22, 1893.] Name. Amount. .-.■.-.... Name. Amount. Earnings of natives, 5,500 seal skins, at 50 cents $2, 750.00 Second class—continued. 6. Alex Glacktonoff $55.94 First class. 119. 91 119. 91 69.91 7. Alex Hanson 55 94 8. Euphene Kochuten 55.94 55.94 10. Necon Shabolin 55.94 4. Apollon Bourdukofski fift 91 ] 1. Vassili Seduli 55 94 5. Jacob Kochuten RQ at r2- Uoroiay Stepeten fiooT 13. Neon Tetoff 55.94 6. John Kochuten 55.94 7. Stepan Kozeroff 69.91 14. Markel volkoff 55 94 8. Aggie Kushin 69 91 Alex JYleloveaoS 55.94 9. Neon Mandrigon 55.94 69.91 18 69.91 17. donn^ratis 55.94 11. Martin Nederazoff 12. Stepan Nederazoff gg q. Thxrd class. 69.91 1. John KriTrno.'lrT'.nfF 13. Peter Oustigoff 48.95 48 95 69.91 69.91 69.91 69.91 69.91 69.91 69.91 55.94 55.94 55.94 55.94 55.94 1 2. Simeon Nozekoff 3. Alex Merculoff 48 95 16. Rev. Paul Shaishnikoff 4. Maximo Krukoff 48 97 17 Theo. Sediek Special class. 1. Philip Sediek 18. Elary Stepeten. 15 00 20. Peter Tetoff 2. Zachar Tetoff 3. Geo. Kochigan 15 00 15 00 Second class. 4. John Krukoff, No.l 5. Jno.Krukoff,No.2 ... 15.00 15 00 2. Arseny Arkashoff 6. Manvell Zackaroff 15 00 3. Nicoloi Bogadanoff 4. Geo. Emanoff - 7, Yerlerian Shaisnekoff Total 15.00 5. John Glotoff 2,750.00 436 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit H. Division No. 4—Earnings of Natives. By 2,007 seal skins, at 50 cents $1,003.50 To Lestenkoff, Dmitri Lestenkoff, Rev. Innokenty. Swetzoff, Eustin Nederazoff, Arkenty Philimanoff, Eoff Philimanoff, Simeon Oustegoff. Alexia Gorokoff, Corneil Malavansky, Nicoli Philimanoff, Andronic Philimanoff, Andrean Lekanoff, Stepan Rezanzoff, Peter Oustigoff, Simeon 45.40 45.40 45.40 45.40 45.40 45.40 45.40 45.40 38.59 38.60 38.60 38.60 38.60 38.60 To Merculiff, Joseph Merculiff, George Prokopoff, Peter Lestenkoff, Mike Philimanoff, Gregory Kulikuloff, Evan Galanin, Parifini Rezanzoff, Innokenty Nederozoff, Nicoli Philimanoff, Innokenty... Prokopoff, Anfanassa Merculiff, Evan Lestenkoff, Dmitri, chief, $38.60 38.60 38.60 38.60 38.60 29.51 29.51 29.51 29.51 15.89 15.89 15.89 50.00 Total. 1,003.50 Geo. R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Joseph B. Crowley. Treasury agent. Exhibit I. Statement showing the number of foxes killed on*St. George Island and the amount of money earned by the natives for trapping during the winters of 1892 and 1893. Date. 1893. Jan. 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26 Name. Lestenkoff, Demetri Lestenkoff, Michael Swetzoff, Eustin Gorokoff, Corneil Lekanoff, Stepan Philimanoff, Eoff Philimanoff, Gregory... Philimanoff, Andrean.. Philimanoff, Andronic . Philimanoff, Simeon Prokopoff. Peter Rezanzoff, Peter Nederazoff, Arkenty... Malavansky, Nicoli.... Merculiff, Joseph Merculiff, George Oustegoff, Alexia Oustegoff, Simeon Kulikoloff, Evan Galanin, Parfir Rezanzoff, Innokenty.. Prokopoff, Anfansia Philimonoff, Innokenty Merculiff. Evan Nicoli, Nedarazoff Merculiff, Nicoli Shane, Riesa Total Num- Number ber re- killed, jected. 64 67 52 50 71 52 26 36 30 54 53 37 55 52 40 20 32 36 31 11 17 6 4 18 6 4 4 928 Price per skin. Money earned. 1 $2.00 $126.00 1 2.00 132.00 2. 00 ' 104.00 ..I 2.00 100.00 2.00 I 142.00 1 2.00 102.00 2.00 52.00 2 2.00 68.00 2. 00 | 60.00 1 2.00 106.00 2.00 106.00 2.00 74.00 2.00 110.00 2. 00 | 104.00 2.00 80.00 2.00 40.00 1 2.00 62.00 2.00 | 72.00 2.00 62.00 2.00 I 22.00 2.00 34.00 2. 00 12. 00 ...j 2.00 ! 8.00 ..I 2.00 36.00 .. 2.00 12.00 2. 00 I 8.00 2.00 8. 00 7 1,842.00 Money on hand. $49.91 96.10 12. 43 23.40 44.60 9.57 10.85 16.48 37.96 18.44 40.47 41.78 4.53 5.76 13.39 1.46 5.70 432.83 roTB.—This statement is made up to May 1, 1893. The money earned by the natives for taking skins can only be paid in merchandise from the store of the North American Commercial Com pany on an order from the officer in charj No cash is to be paid for fox skins at any time. St. Paul Island, Alaska, June 1,1893. In compliance with your request, I respectfully submit the following Island of St. Paul Dear Sir: medical report for the ending May 31, 1893. The total number of cases treated amounts to 202, of which 95 were simple acute bronchitis, being 47 per cent of the sum total for the year. Aside from the hereditary predisposition of the natives to pulmonary affections, the large percentage of bronchitis, while unavoidable in some cases, is frequently due to carelessness or indifference in others, such as deficiency in dress, lounging on the ground during the warmer months, walking out in open air immediately following a steam bath, etc. Persuasion and even sickness itself appears to have no effect upon this peculiar characteristic indifference. At times treatment is followed faithfully, and again it will be neglected until the patient fears a fatal termination, when overanxiety and overdosing are the result. No epidemic has visited the island during the year, and contagious diseases have been comparatively rare. There has been one case of erysipelas, two of ringworm, two of chicken pox, and two of scabies. The former cases were spontaneous in their origin, but the scabies (itch) was directly traceable to importation from Unalaska by visitors from said place. The remains of scrofulous ulcers are prominent in the parents of nearly every native family, yet the manifestations in the children have been rather scarce and have always yielded well to treatment. A chemical test of the drinking water proves it to be of excellent quality. Last fall an additionaPhumber of water-closets were erected, sufficient to meet the comforts of every native family, thus improving the sanitary condition of the village, which is in very good order at present and has been for the past year. The record of births and deaths for the year is, respectively, as follows: BirtJis.—Anna Stepetin, a daughter, June 12,1892; Akolina Fratis, a daughter, June 13, 1892; Alexandra Volkof, a son, August 25, 1892; Olga Serebrenikof, a daughter, October 12,1892; Lukeria Kushin, a son, November 7,1892; Evdotia Stepetin, a son, February 8, 1893; Anastasia Kozerof, a daughter, February 19, 1893; Fevronia Kotchuten, a son, March 24, 1893; Agrafina Nederozof, a son, April 4, 1893. Total, 9; males, 5; females, 4. Deaths.—Marina Kotchuten, 2 years, June 3, 1892, scrofula; Mauvra Mandrigen, 26 years, June 6, 1892, phthisis; Peter Kotchuten, 13 years, June 25, 1892, scrofula phthisis; Rose Keonia Glebof, 52 years, July 9, 1892, epilepsy; Akolina Nederazof, 45 years, July 16, 1892, chronic Bright's disease; Droseda Krukof, 2f years, July 24, 1892, diarrhoea; Anna Bogodanof, 23 years, December 3, 1892, pneumonia; Natalia Rezanzof, 59 years, December 9,1892, cancer; Vladimir Prokopief, 22 years, February 26, 1893, phthisis; Susanna Fratis, 17 years, February 24, 1893, phthisis. Total, 10 ; males, 2; females, 8. I remain, yours, faithfully, Otto Voss, M. D. The North American Commercial Company, George R. Tingle, General Manager. St. George Island, May 2,1893. Sir : In compliance with your request, I respectfully submit the following report of the health of the natives, inhabitants of this island, for the past year: There have been no deaths since your arrival in June last until/March of this year, since which time two deaths have occurred. March 25, Joseph Philimanoff, from dysentery, and April 6 Evdokia Tickoloff, consumption. We have had two or three light epidemics of influenza during the winter, but nothing of a serious character. The health of this community has been good (unusually so) for the past two years, having been but three deaths during that time—all children. The sick list is small at present. Respectfully, Dr. L. A. Noyes, North American Commercial Company Physician. Capt. A. W. Lavender, United States Treasury Agent. 438 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit K. Dutch Harbor, August 30,1898. Dear Sir : I am informed that Father Metrophanes, of Unalaska, desires passage on one of the vessels of your fleet going to the islands of St. Paul and St. George for the purpose of taking from those .islands funds collected by the church from the natives during the past eighteen months. This money, contributed by the natives to their church on the islands, should either remain there, in my judgment, for the benefit of their churches, or be redistributed among them, as in a former instance. Each island is provided with a priest. I therefore regard the visiting of Father Metrophanes as unnecessary in the way of furthering the right of worship. Hence I request that you direct each of the commanding officers of your fleet neither to convey Father Metrophanes to the seal islands nor to convey any moneys from the islands, belonging to the church, unless under orders direct from the Treasury Department. Most respectfully, J. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. Commander Nicoll Ludlow. Exhibit L. Census of the Seal Islands to June 30, 1893. Name. Relationship. Age. Artomanoff, Kerrick Artomanoff, Alexandria "Wife Ivanoff, Evdakea Orphan... Arkashoff, Arseney Arkashoff, Marena Wife Stepetin, John Stepson.. Volkoff, Claudia.. Orphan.., Bogodanoff, Nicoli Bogodanoff Mary Sister Bourdukoffsky, Apollon ■---. Bourdukoffsky, Cnioiva "Wife Bourdukoffsky, Peter Son Bourdukoffsky, Ulita Daughter Buterin, Karp Buterin, Parascovia Wife Buterin, Constantino Son Sediek, Zachar Orphan .. Emanoff, George Emanoff, Catharine Wife Emanoff, Mary Daughter Koznitzoff, Jonn Orphan.. Fratis, John Wife Daughter Son 10. 11, 12, 13. 14. Fratis, Aukoolena Fratis, Agrifena Fratis, John Glotoff, John [ Glotoff, Andeta Wife Glotoff, Mary Mother... Gromoff, Nicoli Gromoff, Oulena Wife Sediek, Elizabeth Orphan.. Galaktioneff, Alex Galaktioneff, Martha Wife Yatzmanoff, Anxenia. Orphan... Hansen, Alex Kochooten, John Kochooten, Daria Mother .., Kochooten, Ellen Sister Kochooten, Zenovia do ... Haberoff, Paul Haberoff, Agrifena Kochooten, Eupheme. I Kochooten, Pelogia Wife Kochooten, Trepan Nephew .. Kochooten, Jacob Kochooten, Ferronia Wife Kochooten,Uleta Daughter. Kochooten, Ellen do .... Kochooten, Theodore I Son ....... Male. Female. 67 13 23 "ii 15 41 18 49 27 23 36 26 43 51 i 43 42 20 30 19 34 10 39 20 2 23 2 20 66 34 17 43 21 26 53 44 40 20 10 Lodashinkoff, Natalie Stepdaughter. Kochooten, Larion Son. Zacharoff, Emanuel Orphan Kozeroff, Stepan Kozeroff, Anastasia Wife. Kozeroff, Yarenally Son Kozeroff, Suendulee Daughter Nozikoff, Simeon | Stepson. Krukoff, Nicoli. Wife Son Daughter. 20. 01 22 23, 24. 26. Krukoff, Catharine Krukoff, Metrofan Krukoff, Oustenia Krukoff, Maxim Krukoff, Feotesta I Wife Krukoff, John Son Krukoff, Condrat do Kushin, Aggie Kushin, Mary Wife Kushin, Lukera Daughter Kushin, Michael Son Kushin, Nestor Grandson Mandregin, Neon Mandregin, Mary Wife Do Daughter Mandregin, Zoya do Mandregin, Innokenty Son Merculiff, Alex j Melevedov, Anton Melevedov, Alexandra Daughter Melevedov, Olga do Melevedov, Mary do Melevedov, Alexandra Mother Melevedov, Alex Melevedov, Salome j Wife Melevedov, Simeon Melevedov, Alexandria Wife Melevedov, Margarite Daughter Nedarazoff, Stepan , Nedarazoff, Alexandria Wife Nedarazoff, Mary Niece Hopoff, Nikita.." Orphan Nedarazoff, Martin Nedarazoff, Catharine Wife Shane, Mary Stepdaughter Shane, Pascovia Orphan Oustegoff, Peter Ousfegoff, Parascovia Wife Oustegoff, Stepanda Mother Oustegoff, Neil Son Shaisnikoff, George Orphan Paukoff, Parfiri ...".. I 29, 30. 31, 32. 36, •)• Wife Son Daughter. Wife'.".".".*.". Wife Daughter. do ..., Paukoff, Olga Paukoff, Vlasia Paukoff, Varoara Parauchin, Daniel Parauchin, Alexandria Shaisnikoff, Paul (Rov. Shaisnikoff, Valerian Sediek, Theodore Sediek, Martha Sediek, Anastasia ... Sediek, Mary Sediek, Yustenia I do Sediek, Matrona do Sediek, Innokenty Son Sediek, Philip I Shabolin, Necon I Shabolin, Agrifena Daughter Shabolin, Facia Wife - Sedulee, Vassily Sedulee, Elizabeth Wife Sedulee, Vera Daughter... Mezeekan, Mary Orphan , Mezeekan, Ivan Son of Mary Stepetin, Elary Stepetin, Anna Wife Stepetin, Ouleana Daughter... Stepetin, Parla do Stepetin, Darofay aMonths. 30 36 24 32 440 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of the Seal Islands to June 30, 1893—Continued. Name. Relationship. Age. 37. Stepetin, Vassa Wife Stepetin, Vassily Son 38. Terrakanoff, Kerrick Terrakanoff, Anna Wife Shane, Elerary Orphan . Nadarazoff, Agrifina do.. Nadarazoff. Alexia do .. Nadarazoff, Maria Infant.. 39. Tetoff, Peter Tetoff, Mary Wife.... Tetoff, Alexander | Sister... 40. Tetoff, Neon Tetoff, Agrifenia Wife... Tetoff, Zachar Brother Tetoff Simeon Son 41. Volkoff, Markel Volkoff, Alexandria Wife.... Volkoff, Ellen Sister.. Kushin. Moara Orphan Merculiff, John do. Volkoff, Teron 43. Kochergin George. 9, 10. 11, 12 13. 14, 15, 16, Widows and orphans. Son Orphan do . do. Orphan Balakshin, Matrona .....••«•>. Balakshin, Agrifenia Shapasshinkoff, Parascovia Rookavishnikoff Bellaglazoff, Ellen Terrakanoff, Mary Kosheonikoff, Aodita Kosheonikoff, Paul | Son Merculiff, Martin I Orphan ... Krukoff, Anna Krukoff, Natalie Krukoff, John N I Son Kozloff, Parascovia Kozloff, Michael Son Kozloff, Nicoli do Serekinkoff, Olga I Serekinkoff, Repsemie Son Popoff, Avdotia Popoff, Evr08inia Daughter. Balakshin, Anna do Peeshinkoff, Vassilica Popoff, A fan a si a Shutyagin, Daria Orphan ... Rookovishnikoff, Annissa Rookovishnikoff, Anna Daughter. Rookovishnikoff, Parascovia do Rezanzoff, Anna — Shutyagin, Uleta Tetoff, Feolnsia ~ Tetoff, Irene Tetoff, Sofia Terrantova, Anna Terrantova, Anna Daughter, Prokapief,Auxenia Merculiff, Paul Orphan ... Male. Female. a6 41 30 25 15 al 50 11 all 15 13 11 13 14 6 a 16" 34 26 34 17 18 41 39 14 45 16 28 59 18 34 28 42 35 30 35 3 11 35 49 14 29 10 5 61 26 37 9 7 75 42 27 a Months. Female orphan children at school at Unalaska. Age. Shutyagin, Parascovia 19 Shoposhnikoff, Tatiana 20 Sediok, A vdot a 13 Krukoff, Lukeria 19 Koznitzkoff, Agafia . 16 Age. Fratis, Ellen 16 Merculiff, Luhoff 18 Granoff, Anastasia 16 Shutyagin 13 Xaclnu'oll', Teodosia 15 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 Galanin, Evan Gorakoff, Corneil Gorakoff, Catharine Galanin, Parfiri. Galanin, Alexander Kulikuloff, Evan Kulikuloff, Barbara Lekanoff, Stepan Lekanoff, Pelegia... Lekanoff.. Anatoli ,^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^»- Lekanoffi Sergius M. Lestenkoff, Demetri I M. Lestenkoff, Anna. Merculoff, Mark Lestenkoff, Rev. Innokenty Lestenkoff, Elizabeth Lestenkoff Helena Lestenkoff, Mary Lestenkoff Michael Lestenkoff, Sarah Malavansky, Nicoli I M. Malavansky, Repsemia F. — - - — F. F. M. M. Malavansky, Wassa Malavansky, Slepineda Malavansky. Peter Merculoff, Evan Merculoff, Wasalesa | F Merculoff, Alexandra Merculoff, Nicoli Merculoff, Evdokia.. Merculoff, Helena Merculoff, Joseph F. M. F. F. M. Merculoff, Fevronia I F. Merculoff, George Merculoff, Stepineda.. Merculoff, Helena Merculoff, John Nederazoff, Arkenty.. Nederazoff, Eugenia-. Nederazoff, Malinia .. Nederazoff, Nicoli Nederazoff, Isador Oustegoff, Alexia Oustegoff, Martha Oustegoff, Alexandra. Oustegoff, Michael ... Oustegoff, Simeon Philimonoff, Andrian Philimonoff, Parascovia Philimonoff, Pelegia Philimonoff, Simeon Philimonoff, Andronic Philimonoff, Zenovia ... Philimonoff, Marina Philimonoff, Mary Philimonoff, Eoff Philimonoff, Oleta Philimonoff, Gregory Philimonoff, Eugenia ... Philimonoff, Demetri — Oustegoff, Eproxia Oustegoff, Susanna Philimonoff, Simeon Philimonoff, Evdokia... Philimonoff, Innokenty. Philimonoff, Fedosia Philimonoff, Zoia Prokopoff, Peter Prokopoff, AnfanaSia Rezanzoff, Fedosia ... M. F. F. M. M. F. F. M. M. M. F. F. M. M. M. F. F. M. M. F. F. F. M. F. M. .F. M. F. F. M. F. M. F. F. M. M. F. 33 18 14 5 16 15 12 9 6 21 39 19 16 8 3 41 39 19 15 2 43 23 a2 8 29 26 29 5 2 26 27 3 1 51 31 20 19 7 13 6 43 20 18 12 1 28 15 49 Widow. Son. Husband. Wife. Brother-in-law. Adopted. Husband. Wife. Husband. Wife. Son. Do. Widower. Daughter. Adopted. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Dp. Son.' Daughter. Bachelor, ^^^^^^^ family. Sister. Do. Niece. Nephew. Son of Wasalesa (next) and head of family. Mother of Evan; widow. Sister of Evan. Brother of Evan. Sister of Evan. Do. Son of Fevronia (next) and head of family. Widow, and mother of Joseph* et al. Brother of Joseph. Sister of Joseph. Do. Brother of Joseph. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Son. Do. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Nephew. Bachelor; keeps house alone. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Son. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Do. Husband. Wife. Son. Daughter. Son. Stepdaughter. Do. Husband. Wife. Son. Daughter. Do. Widower, and head of family. Prother of Peter. Widow, and mother-in- law of Peter. a Months. 442 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. George Island, Alaska, June 30, 1893—Continued. No. 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 Name. Sex. Age. Rezanzoff, Innokenty M. Rezanzoff, Serefema F. Rezanzoff, Peter M. Rezanzoff, Matrona F. Rezanzoff, Tatiana F. Shane, Raiesa I l F. Shane, Oleta F. Shane, Michael M. Merculoff, Stepan M. Merculoff, Nadesda F. Swetzoff, Eustin M. Swetzoff, Christiana F. Swetzoff, Gregory M. Swetzoff, Polexinia F. Swetzoff Fevronia I F. Swetzoff.Paul 1 M. 15 6 47 51 9 41 24 6 3 13 42 36 7 34 16 1 Remarks. Son of Fedosia. Granddaughter of F dosia. Husband. Wife. Daughter. Widow. Daughter. Son. Adopted. Do. Husband. Wife. Son. Widow. Daughter. Son. I certify that the foregoing is correct. E. T. Hall, Issistant United States Treasury Agent. Exhibit M. St. Paul Island, August 23,1893. Sir : In the matter of widows' coal supply now being furnished by the Government (as I understand by their order), I respectfully agree and bind the company to reimburse the Government for such distribution next year, should the Secretary decide the company to be liable for same under their lease with the United States. I am, respectfully, George R. Tingle, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Hon. J. B. Crowley, United States Treasury Agent. Treasury Department, Washington, D. G, September 28, 1898. Sir: Find inclosed receipts showing the number of seal skios taken from the seal islands by the lessees for the year 1893, as counted by Agents Adams and Hall, in charge on the islands. Respectfully submitted. Jos. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. Hon. Secretary Treasury, Washington, D. C. Island of St. Paul, August 24, 1893. This is to certify that 5,418 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Farallon, J. F. Drisko, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco. Thomas E. Adams, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, August 26,1893. This is to certify that 2,007 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board tb* North American Commercial Company's steamer Farallon, J. F. Drisko, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. Enos T. Hall, Assistant Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 443 Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, August 15, 1893. Sir : We, the undersigned Treasury agents, have the honor of submitting to you a question of vital importance to some of the most worthy natives of the seal islands, and of recommending the adoption, by the Department, of the ruling we have already given in the premises. Congress having appropriated $19,500 for the support of the natives of the seal islands, the question has arisen: Shall a pro rata share of the appropriation be expended for those natives who have money saved by economy from the earnings of years past? Agents in charge of the islands, at different times, have held contrary opinions on the subject, one man insisting that the native must exhaust his last dollar and become, a pauper, absolutely, before Government aid should be given him, while others held that it would be both unjust and impolitic to bring the thrifty and saving to the degrading level of the pauper. Our own opinion is that all sealers should be treated as equals in the distribution of the necessaries of life by the Government, and that the few who have had the forethought to save a little money should be allowed to hold and hoard it for future emergencies. Under existing rulings the native men guard the rookeries, build and repair roads, and do all the work that is done for the comfort and cleanliness of the whole community. Were we to refuse rations to those who can afford to purchase them it would hardly be fair to compel them to work on the road, and were we to permit idleness on their part, we could hardly induce the pauper element to perform labor with any degree of satisfaction. A temporary ruling has therefore been made to the effect that Government aid shall be given to all alike, and we very respectfully submit the matter for your decision. Joseph B. Crowley. Thos. E. Adams. Joseph Murray. Enos T. Hall. Hon. John G. Carlisle, Secretary of the Treasury. Senate Document No. 137, Part I, 54th Congress, 1st Session. REPORTS op AGENTS, OFFICERS, AND PERSONS, ACTING UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY, IN relation to the CONDITION OF SEAL LIFE ON THE ROOKERIES : OF THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS, ■ AND TO PELAGIC SEALING IN BERING SEA AND THE NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN, IN THE YEARS 1893-1895. X3ST TWO PARTS. Part I. [Part II (with maps and illustrations) contains results of investigations under the direction of the IT. S. Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries. 445 CONDITION OF SEAL LIFE ON THE ROOKERIES OF THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS, 1893-1895. The Yice -President presented the following letter prom the acting secretary op the treasury, transmitting, in response to a resolution op the senate OP FEBRUARY 17, 1896, THE REPORTS MADE BY THE AGENTS, OFFICERS, OR PERSONS ACTING UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY IN THE YEARS 1894 AND 1895, IN RELATION TO THE CONDITION OF THE PUR SEALS ON THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS, OR TO THE HUNTING OF SUCH ANIMALS IN BERING SEA OR IN THE NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN, AND THE EFFECT OF SUCH HUNTING UPON THE FUR SEALS THAT RESORT TO THE BERING SEA. February 27, 1896.—Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations and ordered to he printed. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, February 26,1896. Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a resolution of the Senate, dated the 17th instant, wherein I am directed to furnish copies of the reports made by the agents, officers, or persons acting under the authority of the Secretary of the Treasury in the years 1894 and 1895, in relation to the condition of the fur seals on the Pribilof Islands, or to the hunting of such animals in Bering Sea or in the North Pacific Ocean, and the effect of such hunting upon the fur seals that resort to Bering Sea, and, in reply, to state that the preparation of the copies of such papers will involve great labor, and require considerable time, owing to the voluminous character of the documents. I therefore transmit the originals, with the request that they be returned to the files of the Department without mutilation in case the Senate should order them printed. Eespectfully, yours, The President of the Senate. S. Wike, Acting Secretary. 447 CONDITION OF THE FUR SEALS OF THE PRIBILOF ISLANDS. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, March 1, 1895. Sir: Agreeably to your directions contained in Department letter, June 9,1894, hereto annexed, I left Victoria, British Columbia, July 23 last on the United States revenue steamer Bush for the Pribilof Islands in Bering Sea and other points in the Territory of Alaska. I was accompanied by Mr. Joseph Murray, inspector of salmon fisheries, and Mr. John W. McGrath, secretary and stenographer. 1 now have the honor to transmit a report, together with reports of Mr. Murray and other official documents, bearing upon the subject. I Our itinerary was as follows: July 23, sailed from Yictoria, British Columbia; July 31, arrived at Unalaska; August 1, at Unalaska; August 3 to 8, St. Paul Island (Pribilof); August 8, St. George Island; August 9, Unalaska; August 11, Akutan; August 12, Belkofski; August 13, Sand Point; August 14, Unga; August 16, 17, Karluk (Kadiak Island); August 18, St. Paul Island; August 21, Yakutat Bay; August 25, Sitka; August 26, 27, Juneau; August 28, Wrangell; August 29, Kasan, Loring, and Metlak- hatla; August 30, iFor t Simpson; September 3, Nanaimo and Vancouver. The area of Alaska Territory has been estimated at 531,000 square miles—almost one-sixth of the total area of the United States. The population, according to the Eleventh Censuses 32,052; of which total 4,298 are whites, 2,288 Mongolians, 23,531 Indians, and 1,823 mixed. The length of the coast line of Alaska, including the mainland and islands, is 26,364 miles, as compared with 3,690 for the Pacific Coast, 2,043 miles for the Atlantic Coast, and 1,810 miles for the Gulf Coast, including all islands. Some conception of the distances between the various points in the Territory may be obtained from the following table: Statute miles. Prom United States boundary on Portland Canal, Alaska, west to the island of Attu, approximately 2,374 From Sitka, Alaska, to the Pribilof Islands (seal islands) as a vessel sails 1,565 From Port Townsend, Wash., to Unalaska • 1,949 From Port Townsend, Wash., to the Pribilof Islands 2,189 From San Francisco to Unalaska 2,374 From San Francisco to Pribilof Islands 2,614 From San Francisco to island of Attu 3,282 From San Francisco due west to meridian of Attu 3,513 From San Francisco due east to Washington 2,456 Between the Pribilof Islands and the city of Washington there is a difference of time of six and one-fourth hours; between the Pribilof Islands and San Francisco, three hours* 448 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 449 The report of Inspector Murray, hereto annexed, and the other documents made a part of this report so completely set forth the present condition and needs of the Territory of Alaska, as well as its past history, that little more is left to me than generalization. The subject matter naturally divides itself into several broad groups, viz: (1) The fur seal, (2) the salmon fisheries, (3) other fur-bearing animals, (4) the land question, (5) the liquor question, (6) the Indians. I shall briefly consider these questions in order. It will be apparent that many details do not fall within the jurisdiction of the Treasury Department; nevertheless I deem it expedient to state what I saw and certain general conclusions thereon. 1. THE FUR SEAL OF ALASKA. It is unnecessary to dwell, except very briefly, upon the history of the Pribilof Islands, one of the breeding places of the northern fur seal. Discovered about 1787 by Bussians, they remained in the possession of Bussia until ceded to the United States in 1867. From 1787 to 1805 there were a number of Russian companies on the islands, and the seals were ruthlessly slaughtered without regard to age or sex. In 1806 and 1807 killing was suspended and most of the Indians engaged in the killing were sent back to Unalaska, whence they were originally procured. From 1808 to 1834 killing was resumed with little care for the preservation of the herd. By 1834 the herd was threatened with extermination, and killing, except a limited number for food, was prohibited until 1841. In 1835 the principle of killing only male seals was adopted, and from that time on the herd was watched so earefully that in 1867, at the cession of Alaska, about 5,000,000 seals were on the islands, as many, as far as all evidence goes, as were there in 1787. From the cession until 1871 the seal islands were free to all, and as a result over 250,000 seals were taken in one season. After 1870, however, the catch was strictly regulated and the monopoly of killing seals was leased to the Alaska Commercial Company for twenty years. At the expiration of this lease a new lease was made to the North American Commercial Company, which has not yet expired. From 1870 to 1886 about 100,000 male seals were taken on the islands annually, without in any appreciable degree affecting the size of the herd. From 1886 on, however, causes were at work which soon became manifest in a rapid falling off of the seal herd, until in 1890 only about 25,000 could be taken on the islands as against over 100,000 in 1889. The following table shows the total number of seals killed on the Pribilof Islands from 1870 to 1894, inclusive: Grand total of seals killed for all purposes on the Pribilof Islands from 1870 to 1894, inclusive. Year. 1870 1871 1872 1873 1874 1875 1876 1877 1878 Number. 23,773 102, 960 108, 819 109,177 110, 585 106,460 94, 657 84, 310 109,323 Tear. 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 1886 1887 Number. 110, 511 105,718 105, 063 99,812 79, 509 105, 434 105, 024 104,521 105,760 Year. 1888 1889 1890 1891 1892 1893 1894 Total Number. 103,304 102,617 25,701 14,406 7,509 7,390 15, 033 2,047,374 H. Doc. 92- -29 450 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. The cause of the decrease in number found on the islands is now universally admitted to be the killing of female seals. As no female seals have been killed on the islands since 1834, it follows that the falling off is caused by pelagic sealing. From 1875 to 1880 vessels occasionally took seals at sea, but the number caught was insignificant. By 1880 the vessels engaged amounted to 16; in 1886, the fleet had increased to 34, and for the first time entered Bering Sea and commenced taking seals. The subsequent history is well known; the seizures and protests finally culminated in the treaty with Great Britain, the Paris Tribunal, and the award providing regulations under which pelagic sealing is now carried on. The following table gives the number of seals killed at sea from 1868 to 1894, inclusive, dividing the catch into localities, as far as possible j also giving the number of vessels employed. The figures prior to 1891 contain some seals killed on the Asiatic coast. It is not possible to distinguish such seals, however, from those killed on the eastern side of Bering Sea and the .North Pacific Ocean, forming part of the Alaskan or American herd. This table was compiled from the figures in the British and American cases before the Paris Tribunal and subsequent corrections taken from official reports and the official returns of the London trade sales: Totals by localities. Northwest Coast. Bering Sea. Asiatle. Undetermined. Total. Tear. Vessels, appendix United States case, vol. 1. 4,367 4,430 8,686 16, 911 5,336 5,229 5,873 5,033 5,515 5,210 5,544 8,557 8,718 10,382 15, 551 14, 057 16, 971 21, 840 13,399 9,324 8,714 14,361 21,838 22,900 46,642 28,613 24,101 4,367 4,430 8,686 16,911 5.336 1868 1869 1870 1871 1872 Page. 591 5,229 1873 5,873 1874 5,033 1875 5,515 1876 5,210 1877 fi. fwU 1878 i l i 2 16 12 15 13 11 15 34 47 39 68 61 115 122 84 95 310 1,192 8,867 8,910 10, 382 15,551 16, 585 17,183 24,960 38. 994 1879 1880 1881 1882 1883 1884 1885 188R 2,500 28 212 1,920 11,000 16, 000 726 13, 300 11,000 18,000 1,200 14,595 21, 304 17,475 15, 497 18,976 23,041 46,628 1887 26,915 1888 43,158 1889 51,814 1890 69,788 | 1891 73,394 1892 5,847 26,752 72, 045 8,342 6,836 109.000 1803 31,585 79,478 142,000 1894 From the above it will be seen that the pelagic catch of the past season of 1894, the first year in which the regulations of the Paris award were applicable, was the most destructive in the history of pelagic sealing, the total killed reaching 55,686, and, including undetermined skins, 62,522, as against only 15,033 killed on the islands. From 1880 to 1894 the pelagic catch increased from 8,910 to 55,686, or 624 per cent, while the Pribilof Island catch decreased from 105,718 to 15,033, or 86 per cent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 451 When it is remembered that the evidence shows that about three- quarters of the seals killed at sea are females, it is easy to understand the inevitable falling off in the herd. Our agents report a decrease in the seal herd of at least one-half since 1890, and it is apparent that commercial extermination is near at hand unless changes in the regulations of the Paris award are speedily agreed to. It will be remembered that from June, 1891, to and through the season of 1893, under the modus vivendi agreed upon by the United States and Great Britain, all sealing in Bering Sea was prohibited pending the Paris award. Undoubtedly this gave the seal herd great relief in securing for it immunity while on its breeding grounds and in the sea procuring food for the young pups. The subsequent regulations established by the Paris award also helped the herd by closing the North Pacific Ocean and Bering Sea during May, June, and July. This is seen at once in the North Pacific catch, exclusive of Bering Sea, winch fell off from 46,642 in 1892, to 24,101 in 1894 (the falling off in 1893 to 28,613 is attributed to the fact that the vessels largely went over to the Asiatic shores). This good effect in the North Pacific is corroborated by the report of Mr. C. H. Townsend, of the United States Fish Commission, now on the Treasury files. The regulations of the award, however, failed signally when applied to Bering Sea. Although the herd was protected in the North Pacific in May and June (while on the way to its breeding grounds), and in Bering Sea in July, yet it is safe to say the greater part of the advantages derived from the regulations was lost by permitting the sealers to kill outside of the 60-mile zone in August in Bering Sea. The old modus vivendi setting apart Bering Sea as a breeding ground was thereby done away with and the sea was opened to pelagic slaughter. The fatal results were quickly to be seen. In the past season only 37 of the 95 vessels employed in sealing entered Bering Sea, yet in five weeks they killed 31,585 seals, 7,000 more than were killed by 95 vessels in four months on the American side of the North Pacific Ocean, exclusive of Bering Sea. As a result of this slaughter, largely consisting of females, in Bering Sea, our agents this last fall counted 12,000 dead pups on the accessible portions of the rookeries. A careful estimate based on this count reaches 20,000 as a total of pups dying of starvation on the islands, their mothers being killed at sea. Such slaughter can only result in the rapid extermination of the fur seal.' Every effort should be made to secure modifications of the Paris award regulations. If such modifications be not agreed to, the fur seal within one or two seasons will be commercially exterminated. It will be realized how valuable a source of revenue the Alaskan seal herd has been to the United States when the following table is considered, from which it appears that the total receipts from the Territory, of which all but an infinitesimal portion were derived from our sealing interests on the Pribilof Islands, since 1870, amounted to $6,373,463.08, while the total expenditures of the whole Territory of Alaska for the. same period amounted to only $1,126,624.50. To prevent speedy extermination, a new modus vivendi should be agreed upon pending a careful study of the habits, feeding grounds, and present condition of the fur-seal herd by a commission of scientists, who should recommend such suitable regulations for pelagic sealing as will ward off the otherwise inevitable extermination. Inasmuch as there 452 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. are other Governments also vitally interested in this question, notably Japan and Russia, we should invite their cooperation. I would suggest a commission of three members from each country to examine and report upon the questions involved, and that pending their examination and reports the respective Governments agree to prohibit all killing of seals on land or sea (save a limited amount on land for food for the Indians), or, failing in this, that the existing regulations established by the Paris award be extended to embrace the whole North Pacific Ocean, from shore to shore, with the additional provision that Bering Sea be absolutely closed to pelagic sealing. In the investigation made by said commission, the methods of land killing, as well as pelagic sealing, should be studied. It may be remembered that Mr. Henry W. Elliott, formerly United States special agent, in his report of 1890, claimed that the methods of driving the seals on land were injurious to the herd. In this conclusion he is corroborated by Mr. Townsend, of the Fish Commission, whose report is also annexed. While both these gentlemen are agreed as to the dire results in the past and present of pelagic sealing, yet the fact that any question is raised by them as to the propriety of existing methods of land killing should be sufficient to relegate the question to said commission for careful investigation. The United States should court the most rigid investigation of existing methods of slaughter, both on land and at sea. Out of such investigation there can not fail to come results beneficial to the seal herd and the valuable property interests of the United States therein. SALMON FISHERIES. Upon careful inspection of the salmon-fishing industry at Karluk, on the island of Kadiak, the principal site of the canning industries of Alaska, and of many other canneries scattered over the Territory, I am satisfied that the salmon are rapidly decreasing because of the incessant and indiscriminate fishing and the illegal use of weirs, nets, etc., thus obstructing the streams. By means of these obstructions and by continuous fishing in the streams the supply of salmon is gradually being exhausted. The result will be that the Indians will be reduced to starvation, as they are dependent upon the river catch for food. I was also in receipt of many complaints from Indians to the effect that the canners refused to employ them in the canneries. My personal observation was that the greater part of the employees engaged in the business, at least as regards the fishermen, were aliens—Italians and others—and that of the workmen engaged in preparing and canning the salmon a large proportion were Chinese. This matter, however, has been carefully gone over by Inspector Murray in his report, to which I invite careful attention. The present laws relating to salmon fishing in Alaska are inadequate and should be at once made more stringent. A rigid closed season should be provided and additional inspectors appointed to enforce the law. Annexed to Mr. Murray's report there will be found a draft of a bill containing such changes as seem expedient. The canning of salmon is a very important industry in Alaska; it contributes nothing, however, to the wealth of the Territory, and I recommend that a small tax be imposed upon each case of salmon canned in the Territory as a rental for the privilege given to the canners to take salmon j thus some part of the expense of maintaining the Ter- torial Government will be borne by those who take from it annually a rich harvest and contribute nothing in return. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. LIQUOR. 453 In spite of the earnest efforts of the customs officers the smuggling of liquor into Alaska and its illegal sale to whites and Indians continues flagrantly and defiantly. Considering the vast area of the Territory, and its thousands of miles of coast line, it is perhaps not surprising that such illegal practices have not been completely broken up. Complaint is also made that it is impossible to secure conviction of offenders against the liquor laws by jury trial because of sympathy with the accused. This renders it all the harder to enforce the law. This flagrant defiance of United States law is productive of evil results when the sale of liquor is to whites, but when extended to Indians its evil effects are almost impossible to describe. Under the Russian rule the sale of liquor to natives was strictly prohibited except at high church festivals, but after the cession to the United States many vessels sailed to Alaska and gave the natives liquors in exchange for furs. The natives are passionately fond of liquor, and will do almost anything to secure it. Many murders by the Indians are directly traceable to liquor obtained in this way; these cases are rarely brought to the attention of the authorities. Much cruelty, such as wife beating and other crimes, is also caused by the use of liquor. I am of the opinion that some restriction should be placed upon the importation of articles which can be used by the Indians for making liquor, for example, flavoring extracts, bitters, Florida water, bay rum, eau de cologne, etc., which, although ostensibly imported as medicines, are obtained really for the alcohol contained therein. If the United States Government can enforce the liquor laws, murder, infanticide, wife beating, and other crimes now common among the Indians would soon be unknown. It may well be questioned whether the existing system of trial by jury is not a failure as regards the enforcement of the liquor laws. If, however, it is deemed advisable to retain the provision for trial by jury, I believe that both the grand and trial juries for the Territory should be selected by the judge of the United States district court. A similar practice now exists in the State of Tennessee, and has been held constitutional. It might be well also to give to the United States commissioners the power to enforce, without a jury, section 1955 of the Revised Statutes and section 14 of the act of May 17, 1884, as far as relates to the sale, manufacture, or importation of intoxicants. Having carefully considered the question, it is my firm belief that the liquor question in Alaska can only properly be solved by having a system of high license and total prohibition of sales to Indians. In this way only will it be possible to regulate the traffic effectively. While in Sitka I learned that many people were confined in jail because of offenses under the liquor law. I found also, to my great surprise, that some of them had been imprisoned since June, 1893, awaiting trial for offenses for which, on conviction, not over six months imprisonment could be imposed, there having been no term of court since the first-named date. These facts have been called to the attention of the Attorney-General. FUR-BEARING ANIMALS. THE SEA OTTER. The value of sea-otter skins, just out of the water, to-day is about $200, whereas fifteen years ago the price would not average much over 454 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. $25. "They are becoming very scarce because of indiscriminate slaughter in the past. When under Russian dominion the sea-otter grounds were divided into three districts, one-third being open to hunting each year. Firearms were prohibited and only bows and spears were permitted to be used, and whites were never employed as hunters. After the cession to the United States many whites engaged in hunting, and vessels were fitted out from Pacific ports with otter boats propelled by steam. The result has been almost extermination. The sea otter, contrary to what is generally supposed, has no regular breeding time; it brings forth its young during every month in the year. To prevent its extermination hunting should be prohibited between May and October, and then should be allowed only by natives and whites married to natives. While at Kodiak (St. Paul) a delegation of whites waited upon me and stated that they were deprived of the right to hunt sea otter in Alaska. This right had previously been limited by Treasury regulation to natives and to whites married to natives; that relying on the regulations then in force, they had married native women and had invested all their property in schooners, tackle, etc., and that on March 2,1893, the regulation previously in force, permitting whites married tp natives to hunt, was rescinded by President Harrison; that this took away all their means of support. They therefore asked that, the old ruling as to whites married to natives be restored, and that the ruling of March 2,1893, be rescinded. I am of the opinion, after carefully examining the question, that such of these whites as married natives, relying on the existing law as laid down in the Treasury regulations of April 21,1879, were wrongly deprived of the privilege of hunting otter by circulars of January 19, 1893, and March 2, 1893, and I believe that said circulars should be changed so as to permit such whites to engage in sea otter hunting. I further recommend that the regulations prohibiting the sale of breech-loading firearms be changed. In the gold region about the Yukon River there are many traders who have much gold. They are surrounded by newcomers who have rifles, and they should also be permitted to have them. The natives now almost universally have Winchester rifles, but they buy them at enormous prices and have inferior weapons. Firearms are a necessity to Indians to-day, for without them they can not kill deer or bear upon which they depend for their support. I am further of the opinion that the present prohibition against whites hunting land fur-bearing animals in Alaska should be discontinued. It was originally passed to protect the seals, but their killing is regulated now by other statutes, and this prohibition should be removed. LAND FURS. There should also be a closed season from April to October for each year for land fur-bearing animals. During this period furs are useless, but the natives can not resist the temptation of killing. For many years parts of the Territory have suffered from failure of reindeer because of indiscriminate slaughter in the past, simply for the tongue, eyes, and tallow, rejecting the meat. Said proposed closed season should also embrace deer and mountain sheep. There should further be a prohibition of the exportation of deer skins from the Territory, because of the indiscriminate slaughter carried on by the natives simply to procure the skins for export. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 455 I am further in receipt of information that certain whites use poison to kill foxes. This should be prohibited under stringent penalties. LAND LAWS. The growth of the population in Alaska and the amount of money invested in the Territory is increasing yearly. It is believed that a large immigration will set in as soon as Congress shall extend throughout the Territory the general land laws or some other system enabling the settler to acquire private ownership in land, a privilege now accorded only to the occupiers of town sites, to the owners of mines and canneries, and persons engaged in trade and manufacture. Many other suggestions will be found in the appended report of Inspector Murray. I merely call attention in this brief report to certain broad and general facts and conclusions noted by me during the course of my investigation. Respectfully submitted. Charles S. Hamlin, Assistant Secretary. The Secretary of the Treasury. Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D. C, June 9,1894. Sir: In View of the representations made affecting the customs administration on the Pacific Coast, I desire you to visit San Francisco, Portland, Oreg., Port Townsend, and such other places as may be necessary, for the purpose of making a personal inspection of said ports in order to ascertain the exact condition of affairs and the remedies required to secure the proper conduct of the customs business. I also desire you to make such inquiries as may be practicable with reference to the salmon fisheries of Alaska, and the taking of seals on the Pribilof Islands. Should it be necessary, in your judgment, to visit Alaska, you should not hesitate to proceed there to obtain the desired information. I inclose copies of bills which have been introduced in the House of Representatives affecting the salmon, trout, and other fisheries in the streams of Alaska. I also inclose a statement showing the number of seals taken for all purposes from 1870 to 1893, both inclusive, which may be of service to you in the course of your inquiries. Instructions will be sent to the commanding officers of the revenue steamer Bush to the effect that said vessel will be at your disposal during such time as you may be on the Pacific Coast. It is suggested upon your return that you give attention to the consular sealing system, under which merchandise is permitted to pass the frontier of the United States without critical inspection. The transportation of freight between American ports via Canada should also receive your attention. You will please make your arrangements to enter upon these duties with as little delay as practicable, as the season is near at hand when your inquiries may be prosecuted with the greatest advantage. Respectfully, yours, J. G. Carlisle, Secretary. Hon. C. S. Hamlin, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury. REPORT OF JOSEPH B. CROWLEY, SPECIAL TREASURY AGENT, FOR THE YEAR 1894. Office of the Special Agent, Treasury Department, Washington, D. C, January 4, 1895. - Sir: I herewith transmit my annual report for 1894, with exhibits attached, making a part of said report. Respectfully, yours, Jos. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. The Secretary of the Treasury. Office of the Special Agent, Treasury Department, Washington, D. C, November 20, 1894. Sir : Pursuant to Department instructions dated May 4,1894,1 proceeded to the seal islands of Alaska, sailing from San Francisco May 19 on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Ldkme, Captain Bonnifield commanding. I was accompanied by Special Agents Jacob E. Ziebach and James Judge, and we arrived at St. George Island on June 4, when, pursuant to Department instructions, I immediately relieved Special Agent Hall and placed Agent Ziebach in charge of the island. On June 6 we reached St. Paul Island and found Special Agent Thomas E. Adams in charge, where he was permitted to remain until July 1, when he was temporarily relieved, and Special Agent Judge placed in charge, his appointment as special agent taking place on that date. Agent Adams remained on St. Paul Island, rendering such service as was required, until the return of the steamer in September, when he accompanied me as far as San Francisco on his way home. improvements. One of the most agreeable changes to be noticed on the islands since I first saw them is the improvement in the physical condition of the native inhabitants since sufficient "food, fuel, and clothing" have been furnished them. On my arrival at the islands in 1893, every family was visited and every dwelling inspected, and where we found a lack of beds, bedding, stoves, cooking utensils, wearing apparel, or other necessaries, they were immediately supplied, and the good resulting from this act of simple justice is quite apparent on all sides, and is very satisfactory. Department order for the erection of a number of suitable water- closets is being complied with as rapidly as possible; the change is fully appreciated by the natives, and already the sanitary condition of the islands shows marked improvement. 456 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 457 That the morality of the people themselves has partaken of the general improvement is evident to all who observe their conduct closely; there are most certainly fewer carousals and much less drunkenness, and there is every evidence of a marked personal pride in the home and family relations. It is the census returns, however, that show most clearly the good results of the improvement in the treatment of the natives, for ever since the change was made there has been less sickness and fewer deaths in proportion to births than ever before. (See Exhibits A and B.) SCHOOLS. The attention of the Department has been called to the school system in vogue on the islands by many of my predecessors in their annual reports, but nothing has been done thus far to remedy its many radical defects. The fault is hardly that of the lessees or of the teacher, for they certainly supply a school building and school books, and the teacher is competent, capable, and attentive to his duties, endeavoring at all times to perform his part well and faithfully. The trouble is one that lies deeper than the personality of the teacher or the necessary school supplies, and until the chief cause is removed there will be but little hope of success in the attempt to impart a knowledge of the English language to the natives of the Pribilof Islands. The remedy lies in an "industrial school" where the pupils might be kept secluded from the older natives until the English tongue became theirs. The annual report of the school teacher on St. Paul Island is attached, and marked Exhibit 0. FUEL. Pursuant to instructions I contracted for 290 tons of coal to supply the Government houses and the native inhabitants on both of the islands. This amount, added to the 80 tons delivered by the lessees under their lease, making a total of 370 tons, was delivered by the North American Commercial Company and was distributed as follows: St. Paul Island: Tons. Government house 10 Use of natives 240 St. George Island : • Government honse 10 Use of natives ". 100 Total 360 Owing to an error in weighing there is still due the natives of St. Paul 10 tons, which will be given them next season. In my report for 1893 I asked that storehouses be erected on both of the islands in which to store the supply of natives' coal, and I again respectfully call attention to the necessity of having them built as soon as possible, for it is very unprofitable to leave the coal out of doors in the winds, rains, and snows of Alaska. The houses need not be expensive affairs, and given the necessary material, the natives can build them immediately and thus save the cost in two years by preventing the present waste in slack age. 458 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. FOXES. In December, 1893, there were trapped and killed by the natives of the islands of St. Paul and St. George 811 foxes, of which 770 were blue and 41 were white, divided as follows: St. Paul: Blue 218 White - 27 St. George: Blue 557 White | 14 Total - 811 The skins were sold to the lessees and were classed as follows: First grade, blue; second grade, blue; third grade, white. The amount realized on the skins and credited to the natives was as follows: St. Paul: First class, 146, at $5 $730 Second class, 67, at $4 268 Third class, 27, at $1 27 St. George: First class, 443, at $5 2,215 Second class, 114, at $4 456 Third class, 14, at $1 14 Total 3,710 The money received for fox skins is not a community fund, but is divided among the men who catch the foxes, each man getting credit for the full value of the skins he brings in. The money is credited on his pass book and drawn against for food and necessaries until it becomes exhausted before he again becomes a charge on the Government. This, too, is the system followed in the spending of the fund derived from the taking of seal skins; so long as the man has money to his credit, from daily earnings, he is self-supporting. I respectfully call attention to the fact that on St. George Island this year the natives received for fox skins $2,685, while the earnings for taking seals were only $1,531, leaving a balance of $1,154 in favor of the foxes. This, I think, is a lesson that should not be forgotten in future, especially as the indications are that unless a change takes place very soon by which the fur seal may be properly protected there will not be many left to take for any purpose, and the natives will have nothing to depend on but the blue fox. Firmly believing in the necessity of fostering and preserving the foxes, I have ordered that none shall be trapped on the islands of St. Paul and St. George during the trapping season of 1894-95, but I gave permission to trap foxes on Otter Island, where none have been taken in many years. SEALS. I learned on my arrival at the islands that owing to the extremely long and cold winter and the amount of ice remaining around the beach late into May, the seals had not hauled out so freely as usual, and the assistant agents informed me that as late as May 14 passages had to be cut through the ice to allow the bull seals to reach the breeding grounds, ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 459 and after coming ashore they lay in the snow and ice that covered the rookeries. About June 10-12 the young killable males began hauling out in goodly numbers, but at no time during the. whole season of 1894 were there as many seals on the islands as hauled out in 1893. The indications of decrease are to be seen on all sides in all classes of seals, but more particularly in the cows on the breeding grounds. Beginning October 23 and ending November 30,^1893, there were killed on St. Paul Island, for natives' food, 774 killable seals, whose skins were merchantable and have since been accepted by the lessees. Beginning October 20 and ending November 17, 1893, there were killed on St. George Island, for natives' food, 245 seals, whose skins have since been accepted, thus making the total of 1,019 skins on hand at the beginning of the season of 1894. Beginning the season of 1894 May 9 and ending August 4,12,196 seal skins were taken on St. Paul Island; and from May 23 to August 9, 2,817 seals were killed on St. George Island. The date of the drive, the rookery driven from, and the number taken at each killing during the season are attached and marked Exhibits D and E. I have also attached copy of shipping receipts for the total number of skins taken by lessees during the fall of 1893 and killing season of 1894, marked Exhibit F. Also report of distribution of the "Community fund | as Exhibits G and H. The total number of skins shipped by the lessees in 1894 was 16,032, including the 1,019 food skins taken in the fall of 1893. For taking, salting, and lading these skins the natives were paid 50 cents per skin, or $8,016. The amount actually distributed was only $7,946, leaving $70 oi a balance to be distributed next season. The distribution of the $7,946 had really been made before the acceptance of 140 skins which were not considered first class, but which were afterwards accepted by the lessees' agent, and the natives will be paid next year. driving. Only two drives from each rookery were permitted during the season of 1894. All long drives were avoided, and yet, in my opinion, there were as many skins taken as could have been obtained by the lessees had they been allowed to drive oftener. I was anxious to have the driving done so carefully that there should not be any possibility of disturbance on the rookeries, and I feel satisfied that the plan adopted was a good one. Had there been the number of young killables on the rookeries that Mr. Henry W. Elliott tells about in his work on Alaska, 1872-1880, there would have been no trouble in securing 100,000 skins, but the " amphibious millions" which Mr. Elliott saw in 1876 have passed away and where they swarmed by the million then is now a grass plat upon which a seal is never seen. That the seal herd has been steadily decreasing during the past ten years is so self-evident now that no one denies it. Had the decrease been due to bad management on the islands it would most certainly have been proven during the years of the "modus vivendi," when not to exceed 7,500 seals were taken annually; but, in spite of a long rest of nearly five years, we could not get 20,000 killable seals on the islands m 1894, which shows beyond contradiction, I think, that the cause of the 460 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. steady annual decrease is to be found outside the islands, and as there is only one known cause to which the decrease can be attributed, the almost unanimous verdict of civilization is that the indiscriminate slaughter of seals by the pelagic sealer is the principal cause of the decrease in the herds. From my own knowledge of the situation, gained by an experience of two seasons on the islands, I have no doubt whatever as to the cause of the decrease, for one has only to look at the official returns of the pelagic catch for 1894 to see at a glance that however numerous the seals may have been in 1884 they could not stand the drain made upon them for the past ten years without showing it. From the best information obtainable it appears that the pelagic sealers secured 142,000 seal skins in 1894. The official figures from the American and British customs show that 122,000 skins were landed on the Pacific Slope, and there is good ground for the belief that the remainder were landed in Japan or Russian ports and shipped to London via the Suez Canal. It is admitted on all sides that 70 per cent of the catch were females, mostly mother seals in young or in milk, whose death in either case meant the death of two seals, for it is well known that when a mother in milk is killed at sea her pup dies on the rookery for want of sustenance. I do not make the statement of the death of the pups from starvation recklessly; there is positive proof of it. In the latter part of August, 1894, when the first dead pups of the season appeared on the breeding grounds, I made daily visits to the rookeries and found hundreds of dead pups that had died of starvation. Hundreds yet alive were so wasted, weak, and feeble they could with difficulty drag themselves over the rocks, and would not attempt to get out of the way when approached. Between September 15 and 20 the Treasury agent on St. George counted the dead pups on all the accessible portions of the rookeries upon which he could climb without disturbing the seals, and, estimating the number not seen to be in proportion to those found, there were 4,110 dead pups on St. George Island. The same method was followed on St. Paul, and the rookeries visited and dead pups actually counted on them are shown in the following table: Date. Eookery. 1 Dead pups. Date. Eookery. Dead pups. Oct. 3 Eeef 1,901 847 377 784 2, 849 2,143 Oct. 23 Oct. 23 Oct. 23 Oct. 23 Total... Lagoon ........... 600 Oct. 6.. Lukannon ...... 215 Oct. 6 Ketavie ....... Zoltoi 324 Oct.H Southwest Bay G-arbotch 267 Oct. 11 Oct. 23 10,307 Tolstoi was not visited, and, as only the accessible portions of the rookeries could be reached, I consider I am below rather than above the mark when I put the number of dead pups on both the islands, in 1894, at 20,000. One sight of the rookeries when the pups are dying by the hundred is enough to convince anyone of the truth of the claim made by the Treasury agents, that it is because of starvation, owing to the death of their mothers at sea, that so many pups die in August and September. There is no difficulty whatever in telling the difference between starv- ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 461 ing motherless animals with their flattened sides, feeble movements, and languid cries, and the well fed, rounded, romping ones that are to be seen in pods along the beach playing in the shallows. I fear that this question of dead pups is not fully understood, nor are its lessons appreciated by the nations most deeply interested in the preservation of the seals, otherwise some steps would be taken immediately to put an end to the present mode of sealing at sea. From the most reliable data at hand I find that during the nine years beginning with 1886 and ending with 1894 the following numbers of seals were taken by pelagic sealers: Tear. Number. I j Tear. Number. i i Year. Number. 1886 29,000 45, 000 51, 000 57, 000 1890 66, 000 78, 000 85,000 109,000 | 1894 ! 142,000 1887 1891. 1888 1892 Total J 662,000 1889 1893 jj 1 I venture the assertion that the killing of that number entailed a loss of not less than 1,500,000 seals on the herds on both shores of Bering Sea. So constant and so rapid has been the decrease of the seals on the Pribilof Islands, that in 1894 the only sign of increase to be observed over last year was among the large young bulls who were unable to find cows with which to form harems of their own. There were more idle bulls of breeding age on the rookeries than there were bulls with harems on the breeding grounds. That the seals are steadily decreasing to an alarming extent, and that the principal cause of such decrease is pelagic sealing, can not longer be denied. That the regulations adopted at Paris do not protect the female seals in Bering Sea has been proved the past season beyond the possibility of doubt, for never before in the history of the business did the pelagic sealers take so many seals as in 1894. I therefore respectfully recommend that immediate steps be taken to amend the regulations, and that an international agreement be made, if possible, by which there shall be no sealing in Bering Sea for three years or until the rookeries have had time to recuperate from their present depleted condition, and other arrangements be made for the adequate protection of the females in the future. If such an arrangement can not be arrived at, then I should advise the immediate killing of every seal on the Pribilof Islands rather than allow the islands to be used as a nursery for the propagation of an animal that is to be destroyed before our eyes by the subjects of another nation. MISCELLANEOUS. Pursuant to instructions dated May 5, 1894, Prof. Charles H. Town- send, of the United States steamer Albatross, was permitted to take a suitable specimen bachelor seal for the use of the Smithsonian Institution. GUARDING ROOKERIES. On September 1 a lieutenant and a boat's crew of armed marine guards were landed on each of the two islands, where they remained until November 1, when they were taken off by the revenue cutter Bear, 462 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. During their two months' stay on shore there was no call for their services, nor will there ever be so long as the Treasury agent does his duty and the natives are properly armed and treated like men. It is due to the several naval officers commanding ships in Bering Sea that I say I found them all very willing to do anything they could for the benefit of the Government interest on the seal islands, and as early as June offers of assistance were made to me by the commanders of the Petrel, Banger, and Alert. The several vessels composing the fleet in Bering Sea were always at my service, in turn, whenever I wanted to go from island to island, and by this means I was enabled to attend to many matters of interest to the Department which, under other conditions, might have been neglected. Except the depleted condition of the rookeries and the decrease of the seals, everything on the seal islands is very satisfactory. Since the native people are better treated than in former years—having plenty of good food, fuel and clothing, and houses free from rent— there is evidence of good health, contentment, and happiness on every countenance. The widows, orphans, aged> and indigent persons who have no other means of support, are well provided for by the lessees. The conditions of the lease have been complied with in letter and in spirit by the lessees, and the most cordial relations exist between the Government and company agents, both in a social and business way. Yery respectfully submitted. Joseph B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent, Seal Islands, Hon. John G. Carlisle, Secretary of the Treasury. Exhibit A.—Census of native inhabitants of St. Paul Island, June 30,1894. Name and relationship. family 1—4 individuals: Artomanoff, Kerrick, husband .. Artomanoff, Alexandra, wife Prokapieff, Auxenia, daughter.. Pranaff, Erdokea, orphan Family 2—4 individuals: Arkashoff, Arseny, husband Arkashoff, Marina, wife G-alaxteoniff, Claudia, orphan Stepetin-, John, stepson Family 3—8 individuals: Bogodanoff, Nicoli, husband Bogodanoff, Uleta, wife Bogodanoff, Mary, sister , Family 4—4 individuals: Bourdukoffsky, Apolon, husband Bourdukoffsky, Chi on a, wife Bourdukoffsky, Peter, son I Bourdukoffsky, Uleta, daughter | Family 5—4 individuals: Buterin, Karp, husband J Buterin, Parasoiova,wife Sediek, Constantino, son ! Sediok, Zohor, orphan Family 6—-5 individuals: Emanoff, George, husband I Emanoff, Catherine, wife j Emanoff, Mary, daughter Emanoff, John, son ~ Koznitzoff, John, orphan Family 7—5 individuals: Fratis,John,husband ........... Fratis, Aukolena, wife ■ Age. Name and relationship. Age. 67 41 26 20 27 34 12 16 22 27 19 40 33 14 9 40 58 6 8 26 20 2 al£ 17 48 20 a Mon Family 7—5 individuals—Continued. Fratis, Agrifina, daughter Fratis, John, son Fratis, Simoen, son Family 8—3 individuals: Glotoff, John, husband Glotoff, Avdotia, wife . Glotoff, Mary, mother Family 9—3 individuals: Gromoff, Nicoli, husband Gromoff, O ulena, wife Sediek, Elizabeth, orphan Family 10—2 individuals: Galaxtioneff Alex, husband Galaxtioneff, Martha, wife Family 11—1 individual: Hansen, Alex, bachelor Family 12—2 individuals: Kochooten, John, husband Kochooten, Tiania, wife Family 13—7 individuals: Kochooten, Jake, husband Kochooten, Ferronia, wife Kochooten, Uleta, daughter Kochooten, Ellen, daughter Kochooten, Theodore, son Kochooten, Farian, son Lodoshinkoff, Natalia, stepdaughter Family 14—3 individuals: Koochooten, Eupheme, husband .... Koochooten, Pelogia, wife Koochooten, Trepan, orphan ths. 2 7 ali 26 19 60 26 24 5 22 22 36 19 42 39 18 9 5 1 14 50 43 7 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 463 Exhibit A.—Census of native inhabitants of St. Paul Island, June 30,1894—Continued. Name and relationship. Family 15—6 individuals: Kozeroff, Stepan, husband Kozeroff, Anastasia, wife Kozeroff, Yvanelly, son Kozeroff, Suenduli, daughter Kozeroff, Alexandra, daughter. 1 Nozikoff, Simoen, stepson Family 16—2 individuals: Haleroff, Paul, husband Haleroff, Agrifina, wife Family 17—4 individuals: Krukoff, Nicoli, husband Krukoff, Catherine, wife Krukoff, Metropan, son Krukoff, Oustenia, daughter Family 18—4 individuals :" Krukoff, Maxime, husband Krukoff, Feotesta, wife Krukoff, John, son Krukoff, Condrat, son Family 19—5 individuals: Kushin, Aggie, husband Kushin, Mary, wife Kushin, Lukeria, daughter Kushin, Michael, son Kushin, Nestor, grandson Family 20—5 individuals: Mandregan, Neon, husband Mandregan, Mary, wife Mandregan, Mary, daughter Mandregan, Zoya, daughter Mandregan, Leokenty^ son Family 21—3 individuals: Merculiff, Alex, husband Merculiff, Agrifira, wife Merculiff, Paul, brother Family 22—5 individuals: Melividov, Anton, widower Melividov, Alexandra, daughter Melividov, Olga, daughter Melividov, Marcia, daughter Melividov, Alexandra, mother .. Family 23—3 individuals: Melividov, Alex, husband Melividov, Salome, wife Melividov, Anton, son Family 24—3 individuals: Melividov, Simoen, husband Melividov, Alexandra, wife Melividov, Margaret, daughter . Family 25—4 individuals: Nederazoff, Stepan, husband Nederazoff, Alexandra, wife Nederazoff, Mary, niece Stopoff, Weketa, orphan Family 26—4 individuals: Nederazoff, Martin, husband Nederazoff, Catherine, wife Shane, Mary, stepdaughter | Shane, Parascovia, orphan Family 27—5 individuals : Oustegoff, Peter, husband Oustegoff, Parascovia, wife Oustegoff, Neil, son Oustegoff, Stepanda, mother Shaisnikaff, George, orphan Family 28—4 individuals: Pankaff, Parfiri, husband Pankaff, Olga, wife Pankaff, Vlasia, son Pankaff, Vorara, daughter Family 29—2 individuals: Parauchin, Daniel, husband Parauchin, Elexandria, wife Family 30—2 individuals: Shaisnikoff, Paul, bachelor Shaisnikoff, Valerian, nephew .. Family 31—4 individuals: Shabolin, Necon, husband Shabolin, Tecla, wife Shabolin, Agrifina, daughter Shabolin, Apollanaria, daughter 18 17 4 38 12 8 6 58 19 19 a6 28 27 2 36' 31 11 3 39 36 14 7 30 26 3 59 11 31 31 5 2 35 32 58 14 27 24 5 a oh Age. Family 32—9 individuals: Sediek, Theodore, husband Sediek, Matha, wife Sediek, Anastasia, daughter Sediek, Mary, daughter Sediek, Tustenia, daughter Sediek, Matrona, daughter Sediek, Inokentk, son Sediek, Anna, daughter Sediek, Philip, nephew Family 33—5 individuals: Seduli, Vassily, husband Seduli, Elizabeth, wife Seduli, Vera, daughter Mazekan, Mary, orphan Mazekan, Ivan, son Family 34—3 individuals: Stepetin, Dorofay, husband Stepetin, Vassa, wife Stepetin, Vassily, son Family 35—4 individuals: Stepetin, Elary, husband Stepetin, Anna, wife Stepetin, Oulena, daughter Stepetin, Parla, daughter Family 36—6 individuals: Terrakanoff, Kerrick, husband Terrakanoff, Anna, wife Shane, Elary, orphan Nederazoff, Agrifina Nederazoff, Alexia Nederazoff, Mary Family 37—3 individuals: Tetoff, Peter, husband Tetoff, Mary, wife Tetoff, Alexandra, sister Family 38—4 individuals: Tetoff, Neon, husband Tetoff, Agrifina, wife Tetoff, Zaher, brother Tetoff, Simoen, son Family 39—7 individuals: Volkoff, Markel, husband Volkoff, Alexandra, wife Volkoff, Teron, son Volkoff, Arefa, son Volkoff, Ellen sister Kushin, Mouvra, orphan Merculiff, John,orphan .... Family 40—5 individuals: Eeseff, Nicoli, husband Keseff, Marina, wife Beseff, Olga, daughter Ignatieff, Anna, orphan Giteff, Mary, orphan Family 41—1 individual: Bellaglozaff, Ellen, widow Family 42—3 individuals: Koshernikoff, Ardita, widow Koshernikoff, Paul, son Merculiff, Martin, orphan Family 43—1 individual: Krukoff, Anna, widow Family 44—2 individuals: Krukoff, Natalie, widow Krukoff, John, son Family 45—3 individuals: Balakshin, Matrona, widow Shoposhnikoff, Parascoria, orphan Pvookorishnikoff, Stepan, orphan .. Family 46—4 individuals: Kozlaff, Parascoria, widow Kozlaff, Michael, son Kozlaff, Nicoli, son Kozlaff, Anton, son Family 47—2 individuals: Serebrinkoff, Olga, widow Serebrinkoff, Bepsemer, son Family 48—3 individuals: Popoff, Ardotia, widow Popoff, Erasania, daughter ' Babakslin, Anna, daughter «3J 58 28 29 a 15 34 4 9 a Months, J, 464 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit A.—Census of native inhabitants of St. Paul Island, June 30,1894—Continued* Name and relationship. Age. Name and relationship. Age. Family 49—1 individual: Pishnikoff, Vasselisa, widow.. 34 Family 53—3 individuals: Sediek,Daria, widow ................... 50 Family 50—2 individuals: 48 13 1 4 Koochooten, Ellen, daughter............ 20 Popoff, Afanasia, widow ................ Koochooten, Zenoria,daughter ......... 23 Family 54—4 individuals: Petoff,Feolusia, widow................. Family 51 3 individuals: 36 Bokorishnikoff, Annisia, widow.. Petoff, Grene, daughter.............. 8 Bokorishnikoff*, Anna, daughter . Petoff,Sofia,daughter .................. 6 Bokorishnikoff, Parascoria, daughter ... Family 52—1 individual: 16 60 Family 55—2 individuals: 74 Tar re u tor a, Anna, daughter ............ 41 RECAPITULATION. Families Native inhabitants Female inhabitants Male inhabitants Females in excess of males Male adults 55 196 110 86 24 42 Males between 5 and 17 years -. Males under 5 years Female adults Females between 5 and 17 years Females under 5 years Marriages Births Deaths 23 21 70 25 15 4 9 7 Orphan children at Unalaska school. Age. SedickjArotin 13 Krukaff, Lukarla 17 Koznitzoff, Agafia 16 Merculiff, Luboff 18 Granaff, Anastasia - - 16 Zacharoff, Feodosia 15 Zatzmanaff, Auxenia 13 Fratis, John 12 Besident native population 196 Number of native children absent at school 8 Total population 204 Exhibit B.—Census of St. George Island, June 80, 1894. Name and relationship. Galanin, Ocalena, widow Galanin, Evan, son Galanin, Parferi, husband Galanin, Fevronia, wife Gorokoff, Corneil, husband Gorokoff, Katrina, wife Galanin, Alexander, adopted son.. Kulikuloff, Evan, husband Kulikuloff, Barbara, wife Zacharoff, Emanuel Lekanoff, Stepan, husband Lekanoff, Pelegia, wife Lekanoff, Anatole, son Lekanoff, Sergius, son Lekanoff, Sarah, daughter Lestenkoff, Demetri, widower Lestenkoff, Anna, daughter Merculoff, Mark Lestenkoff, Bev. Innokenty, priest. Lestenkoff, Elizabeth, wife Lestenkoff, Mary, daughter Lestenkoff, Michael, son *. Lestenkoff, Sarah, daughter Malavansky, Nicoli, bachelor, hut family ■ Malavansky, Bepsemia, sister Malavansky, Wana, sister ad of Name and relationship. 31 Malavansky, Stepineda, daughter of Bep- 12 semia 21 Malavansky, Peter, son of Bepsemia 17 Menaloff, Joseph, son of Fevronia, but head 37 of family 39 I Menaloff, Fevronia, widow Menaloff, George, son of Fevronia 48 I Menaloff, Helena, daughter of Fevronia 49 Menaloff, John, son or Fevronia 14 Menaloff, Martha, daughter of Fevronia 25 Nederazoff, Nicoli, son of Eogenia, head of 25 family 4 Nederazoff, Eogenia, widow 2 Nederazoff, Malinia, daughter alO Nederazoff, Isador, son , 31 Oustegoff, Alxia, husband 7 Oustegoff, Martha, wife 9 Oustegoff, Alxandra, daughter 64 Oustegoft', Simon, husband 60 Oustegoff, Mary, wife 25 Philimonoff, Adrian, husband 22 Philimonoff, Parascovia, wife 18 Philimonoff, Pelegia, daughter Philimonoff,' Andronic,husband 29 Philimonoff, Zenovia, wife 34 Philimonoff,Marina, daughter .............. 19 |i Pliiliiuonoff, Mary, daughter.........,,..,., a Months. Ago. 15 6 22 40 20 9 4 1 16 40 20 3 44 24 1 30 18 27 30 6 27 28 4 2 i ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit B.—Census of St. George Island, June 30,1894—Continued. 465 Name and relationship. Philimonoff, Leonta, daughter Philimonoff, Eoff, husband Philimonoff, Oleta, wife Philimonoff, Gregory, son Ph ilimonoff, Eogenia, daughter Philimonoff, Demetri, son Oustegoff, Eproxia, stepdaughter Oustegoff, Michael, stepson Oustegoff, Susanna, stepdaughter Prokopeoff, Peter, husband Prokopeoff Stepineda, wife Prokopeoff, Auianasia, brother of Peter ... Bezanzoff, Fedosia, widow Bezanzoff, Innokenty, son of Fedosia Bezanzoff, Serefina, granddaughter of Fe dosia Bezanzoff, Peter, husband Bezanzoff, Matrona, wife Bezanzoff, Tatiana, daughter Shane, Baiesa, widow Shane, Oleta, daughter Age. a3 52 32 21 20 8 14 9 7 29 17 16 50 16 7 48 52 10 42 25 Name and relationship. Shane, Michael, son Menaloff, Stepan Menaloff, Neduda, at Unalaska school , S wetzoff, Eustice, husband Swetzoff, Christiana, wife Swetzoff, Gregory, son Swetzoff, Polixina Swetzoff, Paul, son Menaloff, Evan, son of Wassalesa, head of family Menaloff, Wassalesa, widow Menaloff, Alexandra, daughter Menaloff, Nicoli, son Menaloff, Eudokia, daughter Menaloff, Helen, daughter Philimonoff, Niacen, husband Buzanzoff, Eudokia, wife Buzanzoff, Innokenty, son Buzanzoff, Fedosia, daughter Buzanzoff, Zoia, daughter Buzanzoff, Joseph, son Age. 27 4 14 43 37 8 35 2 17 42 16 13 10 7 44 21 19 13 2 a5 Males, 42; females, 48—total, 90. a Months. Birth record. Date. Name. Sex. Name of parents. July 8,1893 Aug. 30,1893 Feb. 4,1894 Martha..... F... F... M... F... Fevronia Merculoff, mother. Stepan and Pelegia Lekanoff. Simeon and Eodokia Philimonoff. Sarah Joseph..... ................... May 6,1894 Leonta Andr^Tiio iw>(\ Zf-novia Philimonoff. Mortality record. Date. Name. Age. Sex. Cause. Name of parents. Dec. 14,1894 Simeon Philimonoff Arkenty Nederazoff Helena Lestenkoff 2 42 29 M... Son of Andriah and Parascovia. Jan. 18,1894 M... May 14,1894 F ... Consumption. Daughter of Bev. Lnnokenty. Marriage record. Date. Contracting parties. Bemarks. Sept. 8,1893 Srmftfyn Oustfipn-fF and Mary Teracanoff m„ At St. Paul. Nov. 19,1893 Peter Prokopeoff and Stepineda Merculoff Nov. 22,1893 Parferi Galanin and Fevronia Swetzoff J. E. Ziebach, Assistant Treasury Agent. Exhibit C.—Report of St. Paul Island school. St. Paul Island School, August 15,1894. Dear Sir: I herewith submit to you the following statement of time of tuition and study throughout the eight school months: Nine o'clock a. m.—Calling the roll, 5 minutes; time for study, 25 minutes (slate work); arithmetic, 30 minutes; alphabet, 20 minutes; spelling, 20 minutes; recess, 20 minutes; Fourth Reader, 25 minutes; Third Reader (class 1), 20 minutes; primer, 15 minutes. One o'clock p. m.—Third Reader (class 2), 20 minutes; Second Reader, 20 minutes; First Reader, 20 minutes; alphabet, 15 minutes. Monday and Wednesday, geography; Tuesday and Thursday, penmanship; Friday, United States History. The foregoing subjects are taught thirty-five minutes each day, respectively. Yours, respectfully, g, Melovidov. Mr. J. B. Crowley, Special United States Treasury Agent. H. Doc. 92 30 466 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Report of St. Paul Island school for the first term, 1893. St. Paul Island, Alaska, December 81,1898. Dear Sir: The following is a report of St. Paul Island school for the first term, commencing September 4, 1893, and ending December 22, 1893. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 Name. Boys. Peter Bourdukofsky... John Fratis Trefon Kotchooten Paul Kosheonikof Michael Kozlof Michael Kushin Metrofan Krukof JohnKrukof(l) John Krukof (2) John Meroulief Martin Merculief Stepan Bookovishnikof Innokenty Sediek Zachar Sediek Constantino Sediek Valerian Shaishnikof .. George Shaishnikof Zachar Tetof Total Girls. Anna Balakshin Ouleta Bourdukofsky.. Clavdia Galaktionof ... Ellen Kotchooten Mavra Kushin Natalia Lodoshnikof... Marv Mandregan Zoe Mandregan Alexandra Melovidof.. Olga Melovidof Mary Melovidof Mary Nedarezof Anna Bookovishnikof-. Vera Sedulee Elizabeth Sediek Mary Sediek Mary Shane Daria Shutyagan Irena Tetof Sophia Tetof Total Grand total <s §3 | Number days present. Number days absent (in doctor's care). m m u 3 CO a •H a •rl 1 •rH n 1 1 ft cS s §3 O 1 14 72 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 7 72 0 0 1 1 2 1 • - • • 7 72 0 0 2 1 2 1 * • • • 10 72 0 2 1 1 2 1 • • 5 3 7 9 72 72 0 0 1 0 2 1 2 2 2 1 • • a, 5 9 72 0 0 2 2 o LI 1 .... 13 72 0 1 2 2 2 2 2 12 72 0 0 9 2 2 1 > • - • 9 72 0 1 2 2 2 1 > * • > 11 72 0 2 2 2 2 1 ■ • * • 12 72 0 0 2 2 2 1 .... 8 71 1 0 2 2 2 1 . • • . 8 72 0 0 1 1 2 1 - - ■ • 6 14 64 72 8 0 0 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 11 72 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 14 72 0 1 2 2 2 2 1 181 287 9 9 2 16 16 18 16 5 9 69 3 0 2 2 2 2 1 9 72 0 0 2 2 2 1 .. ... ... ., 14 72 0 6 2 2 2 2 .... 9 13 72 72 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 2 2 2 1 i 14 70 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 9 72 0 1 2 2 2 1 .... 7 12 59 72 13 0 0 0 1 1 2 2 2 2 i 2 8 72 0 0 2 2 2 l| 1 6 11 72 72 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 9 72 0 0 1 1 1 1 m • • . 13 67 5 0 2 2 2 1 1 6 6 14 72 72 70 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 13 72 0 0 1 1 1 1 8 72 0 0 2 2 2 1 6 72 0 0 1 1 196 1,415 25 10 6 14 14 20 14 7 377 2,702 34 19 8 30 30 38 30 12 GENERAL SUMMARY. Number of pupils enrolled (males, 18; females, 20) 38 Average daily attendance 37f \ Average daily absence 47 Average per cent of attendance 99 Number of cases of tardiness 19 Average age of pupils 9f^ Number weeks of school 14f Number days of school 72 Names of text-books used: McGuffey's Primer; McGuffey's First Reader; McGuf- fey's Second Reader; McGuffey's Third Reader; McGuffey's Fourth Reader; Robinson's Arithmetic; Cornell's Geography; Scribner's Copy-book. Simeon A. Melovidov, Teacher. Mr. T. E. Adams, United States Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 467 Report of St. Paul Island school for the second term, 1894. St. Paul Island, Alaska, April 80,1894. Mr. T. E. Adams, United States Treasury Agent : The following is a report of St. Paul Island school for the second term, commencing January 15, 1894, and ending April 30,1894: l 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 Name. Boys. Peter Bourdukofsky John Fratis George Kotchergan Trefon Kotchooten Paul Kosheonikof Michael Kozlof Michael Kushin Metrofan Krukof. John Krukof (M) John Krukof (N) John Merculief Martin Merculief Simeon Nozikof Stepan Bookovishmikof. John Stepetin Philip Sediek Innokenti Sediek Zachar Sediek Constantin Sediek Valerian Shaishinkof ... George Shaishinkof Zachar Tetof Total Girls. Anna Balakshin Ouletar Bourdukofsky.. Clavdia Galaktionof Ellen Kotchooten Mavra Kushin Natalia Lodoshinkof Mary Mandregan Zoe Mandregan Alexandra Melovidof ... Olga Melovidof Mary Melovidof. Mary Nedarezof Anna Bookovishinkof... Vera Sedulee Elizabeth Sediek Mary Sediek Mary Shane Daria Shutyagan Irena Tetof Sophia Tetof Total --.-.. Grand total 15 8 16 8 11 8 10 10 14 13 10 12 18 13 16 17 9 9 7 15 12 15 266 10 10 15 10 14 15 10 8 13 9 7 12 10 14 7 7 15 14 9 7 OS % <w * ° fl CD Fh oq X rM >° ft fl r° C3 CQ 70 70 68 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 70 68 70 70 70 1,536 67 70 70 70 70 70 70 66 70 70 69 70 70 70 67 70 70 70 70 70 216 1,389 482 2, 925 11 15 CQ S3 a p ^ O P» X) H r9 a fl 11 5 16 Branches of study pursued. fl eS <D (A 22 fl r—I r3 ft 02 22 20 20 42 42 fl 22 20 42 43 ID a rG .ri H 22 20 m ft 03 ri O <£> Ci5 CQ <D 4= rr$-& S3 w 4 1 42 16 . GENERAL SUMMARY. Number of pupils enrolled (males, 22; females, 20) 42 Average daily attendance 41^$ Average daily absence's 21 Average per cent of attendance 99 Number of cases of tardiness 36 Average age of pupils 11£ Number weeks of school 14 Number days of school 70 Names of text-books used: McGuffey's Fourth Reader, McGuffey's Third Reader, McGuffey's Second Reader, McGuffey's First Reader, McGuffey's Primer, McGuffey's Spellers, Robinson's Arithmetics, Cornell's Geography, United States History, Payson, Dunton and Scribner's copy books. Simeon A. Melovidov, Teacher. 468 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit D.—Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended August 7, 1894. Bookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. fl fl CD CD "° fcJD ri 1 87 104 4 141 2 5 4 cc += . <n CO « £ © 50 «jj fl^ -H r£> M CO CD . .£'3 H CD .5 3 CO a Pj •o CD ft CD © © Bejected. rA a -+3 o H n3 CD 43 P< CD « O cs to .9 M CO •6 CD 4= © CD "J? DO fl cc O 0 TO CD Date. CD N CO H CD fl fl O 1894. May 9 23 Sea Lion Bock ............ 87 104 4 140 2 5 4 Tolstoi and Beef 24 Watchmen, Northeast Point 31 l June 2 Watchmen, Northeast Point - 10 Watchmen, Southwest Bay Watchmen, Northeast Point 13 14 Beef 1,211 2 539 816 2 553 2 959 1 852- 905 516 2 246 5 933 1,171 2 362 1,016 901 150 4 1,215 2 541 850 2 558 O 967 1 869 917 522 2 251 5 944 1177 1,211 2 539 846 2 553 2 959 1 852 905 516 2 246 ^Mi 933 1 171 4 2 4 5 8 17 12 6 5 11 6 8 9 9 4 1 215 16 Watchmen, Southwest Bay Tolstoi and Middle Hill... 2 19 2 O O 1 541 23 Zapadnie. 850 20 Watchmen, Northeast Point 2 25 Lukannon. 5 558 27 Watchmen, Northeast Point 2 July 2 2 Zoltoi 8 967 Watchmen, SouthwestBay Northeast Point (south side) 1 4 17 12 6 869 5 Northeast Point (north side) 917 6 Half Way Point 522 7 Watchmen, SouthwestBay Lukannon 2 13 5 251 14 Watchmen, Northeast Point 5 17 Zapadnie. 11 6 944 21 Beef 1,177 23 Watchmen, SouthwestBay Northeast Point (sand beach) 9, 9. 2 23 8 &9* 9 •'pi'- 370 1.09IK 362 i nifi 370 24 Northeast Point (north and east sides) 1,025 25 Northeast Point (south side) Gift 9M 910 30 MiddleHill 154 150 154 Aug. 1 4 Half Way Point 287 272 4 910 284 269 4 903 3 3 Eeef 4 Watchmen, SouthwestBay Total 109 1 7 11,176 11,286 U.,176 110 11 286 I hereby certify that all skins herein indicated as having been rejected were afterwards accepted by the lessees as prime skins. October 8,1894. Jos. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, f^pm October 23 to December 30, 1894. |g Date. 1893. Oct. 23 Nov. 2 6 7 14 14 20 22 27 27 30 Number of seals killed for natives' food. Rookery. By watchmen to date Zoltoi By watchmen for food MiddleHill By watchmen for food Beef By watchmen for food Beef By watchmen for food Tolstoi Halfway Pointand Zapadnie watchhouses Total Large Skins accepted i by lessees. Skins rejected. young seals. Under size. Stagy. Cut. 9 9 69 7 79 6 170 1 207 3 175 22 69 7 82 6 3 173 3 4 208 1 3 |" 188 13 3 25 774 751 19 3 1 I hereby certify that all the seal skins above indicated as having been rejected were afterwards accepted by the lessees as prime skins. October 8, 1894. Joseph B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. I hereby certify that the above is a true and correct statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island during the period named, and that the skins of the same have been salted in the North American Commercial Company's salt house. Thomas E. Adams, Assistant Special Treasury Agent. 470 Exhibit E. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. -Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended August 8, 1894. Eookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. Date. Large young seals. © © © © CD © co M to Accepted. Skins accepted. Skins rejected. Total number of seals killed. CD a 'u P4 fl CO S3 © » cc 1893. Oct. 20 North 30 77 4 47 4 38 9 4 1 31 30 77 4 47 4 38 9 4 1 31 23 Zapadnie .. ....... ... 25 Zapadnie (by guards for food) ...... 27 Bast and North.. . ...... ... Nov. 1 Zapadnie (by watchmen) .. .............. 6 North and starry Arteel. 7 Bast 8 Zapadnie (bv watchmen) 14 do \ 17 North and Starry Arteel.............. Total 245 245 245 245 North 1894. May 23 June 8 40 126 40 126 40 do 126 June 15 o o 3 22 826 826 826 26 Zapadnie (by watchmen) ..................... 3 3 July 2 3 Starry Arteel 468 468 468 Zapadnie (by watchmen) ............... .... 4 4 9 Zapadnie 303 275 181 249 303 275 181 249 303 13 Great Bast 275 16 181 21 North 249 24 Zapadnie (by watchmen) 3 3 26 Zapadnie 178 152 1 178 152 1 178 Aug. 6 7 Little East and North 153 Zapadnie (by watchmen) 3 3 3 3 9 .....do... Total 19 19 19 19 3,062 1 3,063 J. E. Ziebach, Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 47i Exhibit F. Island of St. George, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 23, 1894. This is to certify that 3,062 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Lakme, S. Bonifield, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. Jacob E. Ziebach, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. Paul, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 29, 1894. This is to certify that 12,969 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Lakme, S. Bonifield, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. James Judge, Assistant Treasury Agent. Exhibit G.—Division money, St. George Island, 1894. St. George Island, August 9,1894. Division No. 5: Earnings of natives for fur-seal skins taken since October 20, 1893, to August 7, 1894, both inclusive, 3,062 skins, at 50 cents each.. $1,531.00 First class: Lestenkoff, Demetri (chief) 125.44 Lestenkoff, Rev. Innokenty 75.44 Swetzoff, Eustice (second chief) 100.44 Philimonoff, Eoff 75.44 Philimonoff, Simeon 75.44 Philimonoff, Andrean 75.44 Oustegoff, Alexia 75.44 Grokoff, Corneil 75.44 Merculoff, Joseph If 75.44 Second class: Malavansky, Nicoli : 60.35 Rezanzoff, Peter 60.35 Philimonoff, Andronic 60.35 Lekanoff, Stepan 60.35 Oustegoff, Simeon 60.35 Galanin, Parferi 60.35 Lestenkoff, Michael # 60.35 Prokopeoff, Peter 60.35 Third class: Philimonoff, Gregory 45.27 Merculoff, George 45.27 Kulikuloff, Evan.... 45.27 Rezanzoff, Innokenty 45.27 Nederazoff, Nicoli 45.27 Fourth class: Prokopeoff, Aufanasia 22.63 Merculoff, Evan 22.63 Philimonoff, Innokenty 22.63 St. George Island, August 9,1894. We hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the distribution of the sealing fund on the above-named island, and that the respective amounts set opposite the names herein have, been credited to such natives on the pass books of the North American Commercial Company. Jos. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. Dan'l Webster, Agent North American Commercial Company. D. Lestenkoff, Native Chief. 72 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Exhibit H.—Division money, St. Paul Island, 1894. Division No. 5: Distribution of community fund derived from the taking of fur-seal skins from October 16, 1893, to August 4, 1894, 12,830 seal skins, at 50 cents $6,415.00 First class: Bourdovokoffsky, Apollon $164.57 Buterin, Karp 164.57 Gromoff, Nicoli 164.57 Kochooten, Jacob 164.57 Kozeroff, Stepan 164.57 Krukoff, Nicoli 164.57 Kushin, Aggie 164.57 Mandregin, Neon 164.57 Melevedov, Anton 164.57 Nedarazoff, Martin 164.57 Nedarazoff, Stepan _ 164.57 Oustegoff, Peter 164.57 Pankoff, Parfiri 164 57 Paranchin, Daniel 164.57 Rezoff, Nicoli 164.57 Sediek, Theodore 164.57 Stepetin, Elary 164.57 Tervakanoff, Kerrick 164.57 Tetoff, Peter 164.57 Volkoff, Markel 164.57 3,291.40 Second class: Artomanoff, Kerrick 131.65 Arkashoff, Arseny . 131.65 Bogodanoff, Nicoli 131.65 Emanoff, George 131.65 Fratis, John 131. 65 Glotoff, John 131. 65 Haberoff, Paul 131.65 Kochooten, John 131.65 Kochooten, Eupheme 131.65 Galaktioneff, Alex 131.65 Melevedov, Simeon 131.65 Melevedov, Alex 131. 65 Seduli, Vassily..-. ■ 131.65 Shabolin, Necon..... 131.65 Stepetin, Dorofay 131. 65 Shaisnakoff, Paul 131.65 Tetoff, Neon 131.65 2,238.05 Third class: Hansen, Alexander 105.32 Koznitzoff, John 105.32 Merculiff, Alex 105.32 Nozekoff, Simeon 105.32 Stepetin, John 105.32 526 60 Fourth class: . Kochergin, George 30.00 Krukoff; JohnM 30.00 Krukoff, JohnN 30.00 Krukoff, Maxime 30.00 Sediek, Philip 30.00 Shaisnakoff, Valerian 30.00 Tetoff, Zachar 30.00 210 00 Special class: Krukoff, Nicoli (first chief) 50.00 Gromoff, Nicoli (second chief) - 50.00 ■ 100.00 Dae John Stepetin from division No. 4.. 48.95 6,415.00 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 473 Dr. Prime skins accepted, 12,830, at 50 cents $6,415.00 Cr. Twenty first-class men, at $164.57 3 291.40 Seventeen second-class men, at $131.65 2 238! 05 Five third-class men, at $105.32 ' 526! 60 Seven fourth-class men, at $30 | 210.00 Two special class (chiefs), at $50 10o! 00 One amount due division 4, $48.95 1....... 48!95 6,415.00 St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 14, 1894. We hereby certify the foregoing to be a true copy of the division of the fund derived from taking fur-seal skins on St. Paul Island from October 16, 1893, to August 4, 1894, and that the several amounts opposite the respective names have beencredited to said natives on their pass books by the North American Commercial Company. Joseph B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent. J. Stanley Browtn, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. Nicoli Krukoff, Native Chief. REPORT OF JOSEPH B. CROWLEY, SPECIAL TREASURY AGENT, FOR THE YEAR 1895. Office of the Special Agent, Treasury Department, Washington, D. C, December 1, 1895. Sir: I have the honor of submitting my annual report on the seal fisheries of Alaska. Following your instructions of May 9,1 proceeded to San Francisco, Cal., arriving there on the 17th, and on the 20th embarked on the a^orth American Commercial Company's steamer Lakme, en route for the seal islands, accompanied by Assistant Special Agent Thomas B. Adams. We reached St. George Island June 9, where Mr. Adams was placed in charge temporarily, relieving Assistant Special Agent Jacob E. Ziebach during the summer. On the 10th of June I proceeded to St. Paul Island, on board the United States revenue cutter Perry, finding Assistant Special Agent James Jadge in charge. He was permitted to so remain until September 13, when he was relieved by Special Agent Adams after the return of Special Agent Ziebach to St. George. I found on my arrival at the seal islands the business affairs of the Government intact. NATIVES. The native inhabitants had been properly cared for during the winter. Their health was good. The mortality light, as is evidenced by the census reports and the reports of the resident physicians on the islands of St. Paul and St. George, marked Exhibit A. The order of the Department, that the lessees should erect suitable water closets at the dwelling of each native family on the islands, has been complied with. The villages undergo a thorough cleaning both spring and fall, and the sanitary condition is good. The lessees have complied with the terms of their contract toward their subjects for support; namely, widows and orphans, and the aged and infirm who are unable to provide for themselves. School was maintained on each of the islands eight months during the past year, as required by the terms of the lease. EXPENDITURES. The sum expended out of the appropriation, $19,500, for the fiscal year ending June 30,1895, for the support of the natives on the seal islands was as follows: On St. Paul $10,930.95 On St. George 3,728.55 Amount paid to the bishop of the Greek Church of Alaska 3,325.00 Total 17,984.50 474 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 475 In addition to this sum there was expended in support of these natives derived from their own earnings, as follows: On St. Paul: Division of sealers' community fund $6,537.50 Derived from blue foxes 1,025.00 On St. George: Division of sealers' community fund 1, 408.50 Derived from blue foxes - - 2, 685.00 Cash paid natives by North American Commercial Company for miscellaneous labor 2,000.00 Total 13,656.00 COAL. There was landed at the islands 370 tons of coal, 290 tons being delivered under special contract, and 80 tons under the terms of the lease. The coal is of fair quality, and sufficient quantity for the comfort of the natives and Government agents in charge of the islands. The same was distributed as follows: St.PaulIsland: Tons. Government house •. - 10 Use of natives 250 St. George Island: Government house 10 Use of natives 100 Total. 370 A house was built on each of the islands in which to store the coal for native use, the one on St. Paul Island having a capacity of 300 tons; the one on St. George, 150 tons. The Ebrth American Commercial Company furnished under contract all materials, including lumber, hardware, and paint, and superintended the construction of the two buildings, for $790. The natives on the respective islands performed the labor of erecting the same without charge to the Government. The coal is stored in these buildings and it is believed that they will prove a great saving in the future. FURNITURE FOR GOVERNMENT HOUSES. The following articles for the furnishing of the Government houses were received: Ijj St.PaulIsland: One hundred and forty-five yards of carpet $156.10 Six rugs, to match, at $2.75 16.50 One water pitcher, cup, and tray 5.50 One Franklin stove 16.00 Felt for office desk 1.50 St. George Island: One Franklin stove 16.00 Three rugs, at $2.75 8.25 One dust tray, one-half dozen brooms 1.85 Eight window shades 7.00 One toilet set 4. 00 One water pitcher, cup, and tray 5.50 Total 238.20 BLUE FOXES. The past winter was an exceptionally long and severe one at the seal islands. There was more snow fall than usual and the ice remained 476 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. attached to the shores much later than common. The result was that food for blue foxes became very scarce and many of them starved to death. Special Agent Ziebach on St. George Island bought food in such quantities as he could procure and fed to the foxes that came to the village in search of food, and in this manner averted the death of many that would have otherwise perished. No foxes were trapped on the islands during the past winter. Orders were given to trap foxes on both islands the coming winter, with the further order to kill all white foxes found. This was done to prevent the intermixture of the two foxes, the pure blue being much more valuable. Ten pairs of young blue foxes were captured on St. George Island and delivered to Rudolph Neumann of Unalaska, in compliance with the permission granted by the Department to Messrs. Neumann and Apple- gate. Mr. Applegate having failed to call for or arrange for the payment of his portion of the foxes, the entire number was delivered to Mr. Neumann, who paid for each fox the sum of $5.50, the 50 cents being given to the natives for caring for the foxes from the date of their capture to the date of delivery. The $110 received from Mr. Neumann for the 20 foxes secured by him were placed to the credit of the several natives on their pass books, in amounts corresponding to the number of foxes taken bv each. MARINE GUARDS. An armed boat's crew in charge of a lieutenant was landed on both the islands about September 1, as an additional guard to prevent raids on the rookeries. They were given quarters in the villages in accordance with Department instructions. The service rendered by the American fleet in the patrol of Bering Sea, under the command of Capt. 0. L. Hooper, was most efficient. I most heartily commend the Revenue Cutter Service as being capable of performing this work, and recommend that they be given charge of this work in the future. Every courtesy was extended to me so that I was enabled to make frequent trips between the islands in the supervision of the business thereon. SPECIMEN SEALS. In compliance with your letter of May 16, Mr. Frederick W. True, curator of mammals for the United States National Museum, was permitted to visit the seal islands and remain there throughout the summer, accompanied by an assistant. Every facility was given Mr. True to enable him to investigate the fur seal, and to study seal life on and about the islands. He was permitted to take fifteen specimen seals for official Government purposes. Dr. Sharp, of Philadelphia, was permitted to take two specimen seals for a like purpose. Hon. James Sheakley, governor of Alaska, on his tour of western Alaska, visited the seal islands in July, in order to personally acquaint himself with the true condition of the seal herd. C. H. Townsend, of the United States Fish Commission, visited the islands during the summer for the purpose of observing, photographing, and making charts of the rookeries. Capt. F. J. Drake, of the United States Fish Commission steamer Albatross, spent two weeks on the islands taking observations and making a plane table survey of the rookeries. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 477 SEALS. The sealing season began on the 13th of June, after my arrival at the islands. Very few bachelor seals hauled out until about the 20th of June. The breeding bulls arrived early in May. The remainder of the herd was full three weeks later in arriving than in former years. This is accounted for by the fact that the floe ice remained about the islands, extending for miles out at sea, until after the middle of June. Soon after its disappearance the bachelor seals hauled out in goodly numbers. The cow herd came later and apparently all at once. The harems were rapidly formed and the pups were born very soon after the arrival of the cows. From August 10,1894, to June 8, 1895, inclusive, 1,269 seals were taken on St. Paul Island for native food, and from October 20, 1894, to June 3, 1895, inclusive, 196 seals were taken on St. George Island for a like purpose. During the past season, closing August 1,11,231 seals were taken on St. Paul by the lessees and 2,315 on St. George, making a total of 15,011 fur-seal skins in the salt houses. The skins taken from seals killed for native food in the fall were taken under the quota allotted for 1894, and remained in the salt houses throughout the winter. Blue foxes broke into the salt house at St. George in search of food, and damaged 11 of these skins, rendering them unfit for market. These damaged skins were shipped to the collector of customs at San Francisco, Cal., as per instructions. Statements showing the number of seals taken, date of killing, and rookery from which the same were taken, are marked Exhibit B. Summary of skins taken. On St. Paullsland: For native food 1,269 By lessees 11,231 On St. George Island: For native food 196 By lessees 2,315 Total 15,011 Damaged by blue foxes 11 Skins accepted by lessees 15,000 The 15,000 fur-seal skins were shipped from the islands on the steamer Bertha, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, at San Francisco. Receipts for the same are marked Exhibit C. Distribution of community fund. St. Paul Island: To 12,000 seal skins, at 50 cents $6,250.00 To 140 seal skins, rejected in 1894, subsequently accepted, but not included in Division No. 5 i 70.00 6,320.00 By 22 first-class men, at $164.38 .3,616.36 By 15 second-class men, at $131.52 1,972.80 By 4 third-class men, at $105.21 420. 84 By 7 fourth-class men, at $30 210.00 By first chief, $50; and second chief, $50... .. 100.00 6,320.00 478 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. St. George Island: To 2,500 seal skins, at 50 cents $1,250.00 By 7 first-class men, at $67.91 475.37 By 8 second-class men, at $54.32 434.56 By 6 third-class men, at $40.75 244.50 By 1 fourth-class man, at $20.75 1 20. 75 By salaries to first and second chief 75. 00 1,250.00 For detailed statement of distribution of the community fund, with certificate attached, see Exhibit D. QUOTA NOT DIFFICULT TO OBTAIN. It was not found specially difficult to obtain the maximum quota, 15,000 seals, at the islands this season. It need not be taken for granted, however, that a like number can be as easily taken the cpming year or at any time in the future under the present regulations governing pelagic sealing. It will be remembered that pending the modus vivendi no seals were taken in Bering Sea, and only 7,500 male seals were killed on the islands. A cow could then go to sea for food in safety, and return to the rookery to suckle her young. Thus the pups born in 1891, 1892, and 1893 were properly nurtured during their infancy, and did not die of starvation on account of their mothers having been killed at sea. The male portion of them came of killable age last year and this. Fully 50 per cent of the seals driven to the killing grounds this season were of killable size. This exceptionally large percentage is accounted for in no other way except in that just given. NEW KILLING GROUNDS. A new killing ground was established for Halfway Point, at the firsi lake, one-half mile south of the rookery. The killing ground established for English Bay, Tolstoi, and Middle Hill is at a small lake near Telegraph Hill, not to exceed a mile from either rookery. Since the establishment of these killing grounds there is not a drive on St. Paul Island to exceed a mile in length. OVERDRIVING. The natives are accompanied on almost every drive by one of the assistant agents in charge of the islands or myself, and absolute caution is taken in every instance to avoid overdriving. If seals be given their time, they can be driven a mile, or even two, in the cool hours of nighttime with but slight fatigue. It has been contended that many seals die by reason of being turned back into the sea from the killing ground immediately after the drive, while in a heated condition. This is an erroneous idea. Evidence to the contrary appears at every drive made. Two drives were made from Middle Hill and Tolstoi, and as many as 1,000 to 1,500 seals were turned back from each of these killings and driven directly into the lagoon. A very large proportion of them remained in this water as long as ten days before returning to the rookeries. They were watched constantly, and not a single seal was found dead in these waters or along its shores as a result. At nearly every killing of seals from the Reef, Zapadnie, Halfway, and Northeast Point rookeries, a large proportion of the seals turned back went directly froni the killing ground to the rookery from which they were driven, without going into the water, and took up their places there as though they had never been disturbed. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 479 PELAGIC SEALING. The result of pelagic sealing in Bering Sea the past two years already shows a marked decrease in the breeding seals on the rookeries. There were fewer cows in the harems, and on several of the rookeries there were "breaks" or "spaces" wholly unoccupied that had never appeared before. It is evident that the cow herd can not long withstand the onslaught of pelagic sealing in Bering Sea. It was believed, when double the number of sealing vessels came into the sea August 1 than were there last year, that double the number of seals would be taken. But not so. Nor was it the fault of the sealer. It was the scarcity of seals. They were not there in sufficient numbers to be taken, although the tragedy of last year was reenacted. At the time of my leaving the islands, dead and dying pups were to be found on every hand. During the month of October, 22,054 dead seal pups were counted on the rookeries on the island of St. Paul and 6,012 on St. George. They were distributed in proportion to the number of breeding seals on the several rookeries, thus showing conclusively that their death was produced by starvation, and not by an epidemic on any special rookery. The breeding-seal herd has been reduced to such proportion that they can now be counted with comparative accuracy. I made the count as follows: St. Paul Island: Breeding cows 78,696 Bulls 4,372 St. George Island: Breeding cows 21,240 Bulls , 1,180 Capt. F. J. Drake, of the United States Fish Commission steamer Albatross, also made a count of the breeding seals on the islands at the time of making his plane-table survey of the rookeries, and it is probable that by the aid of the survey he may be able to give a more accurate count of the number than I can. But I am certain that if I err it is in overstating and not understating the actual number. EXCESS OF MALE LIFE. There is a surplus of available bulls on the islands. As the cow herd decreases the bulls increase. There is now a large per cent of male life that is a detriment rather than a benefit to the breeding grounds. Nearly 50 per cent of the bulls of breeding age were unable to procure a single cow with which to start a harem. A large number of bulls had from one to four only in their harems. The idle bulls loiter about the boundaries of the breeding rookeries, intercepting the cows as they come and go to feed, keeping up a constant warfare. The cows are thus annoyed and harassed throughout the season, when they should be permitted to rest and care for their young. Every cow that leaves the island is pursued by one or more of these big, strong, young bulls. How far this pursuit is kept up can not be determined. It is believed by some that this is the cause of the cows going so far out at sea before stopping to procure food, and it seems plausible enough. If regulations can not be made at once to prohibit pelagic sealing in Bering Sea, there is but one remedy left, that of taking such number of seals on the islands as to reduce the herd to such proportions as will make the business of sealing at sea unprofitable. The large number of schooners now engaged in that business will be compelled to seek other employment. The business once stopped, the 480 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. taking of seals on the islands could be abated and the herd permitted to rest and recuperate. I most earnestly urge that this course be taken without unnecessary delay. The social and business relations existing between the agents of the company and the Government at the islands the past year have been most pleasant. Respectfully, yours, Jos. B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent in Charge of the Fur Seal Islands, Alaslca. Hon. John G. Carlisle, Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C. Office of Special Agent, Treasury Department, St. George Island, Alaska, October 10, 1895. My Dear Sir : On October 2 and 8 I made a careful count of the dead fur-seal pups on the several rookeries on St. George Island and found the following number: Zapadnie rookery 2, 083 North rookery - 1,559 Starry Arteel rookery 1,131 East rookery 986 Little East rookery 253 Total • • 6,012 The count was made systematically and its correctness can be absolutely depended upon. The number represents only the actual dead bodies and indisputable remains of others that foxes and the elements had more or less destroyed. All trace of those that died during the fore part of August had been washed away. On all the rookeries were seen a great many seal pups that were very emaciated, and it was only a question of a few days before they too would die of starvation. Some were so thin and weak that they did not have the strength to move, while along the outskirts of the herd—as we drove the seals slowly to one side of the rookeries—were hundreds of weaklings that could scarcely keep up with the balance of the herd. A great proportion, if not all of them, will die. In no case was it necessary to drive the seals over 200 yards to enable a count to be made. For three weeks previous to making the count I made frequent visits to and examinations of the rookeries, and on all could see the carcasses of seal pups on all parts, and numerous among the live seals would be seen the emaciated forms of others slowly dying from starvation. Of course it was impossible to make a count of the weaklings, but my judgment would say that on the five rookeries on St. George Island not less than 800 will die for want of sustenance between the 10th and 31st of October. There is but one reason for this deplorable and even criminal destruction of young seal life, and that is the killing in Bering Sea of the females that gave them birth and on whom they are dependent for sustenance until they are old enough to maintain themselves, which is in three or a little over three months; and just so long as sealing in Bering Sea is permitted under the present regulations, just so long will this destructive waste of fur-seal life continue. Sealing vessels commence the work of exterminating the seal herd in Bering Sea on August 1, and in two weeks after you can see the rookeries dotted all over with dead pups, and the number keeps increasing day by day until a great proportion of the number born die from starvation, their mothers having been killed at sea, where they had gone for food, by the sealers. It is an established fact that the male seal, with but few exceptions, goes but a short distance for food during the season the seals are on the island, while the female travels far outside the limit for food and rest, and is then killed in great numbers by the sealers. Something could be gained by the extension of the 60-mile limit to 110 or 125 miles, but a more desirable and practical measure of protection to the young and female seal life would be the addition of the months of August and September to the closed season in Bering Sea. The last suggestion would prolong the fur-seal life a few years, but nothing of a temporary or restrictive nature will be of an established benefit to the continuation and rehabilitation of the seal herd but the absolute prohibition of killing fur seal in open water. The two years of sealing in Bering Sea has been terribly destructive of seal life, and if it is continued two or three years longer the fur-seal herd on the Pribilof Islands will be practically exterminated. Respectfully, yours, Jacob E. Ziebach, Treasury Agent in Charge of St. George Island. Hon. Joseph B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent for the Seal Fisheries of Alaska, Robinsonr III. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 481 Date. 1895. Sept. 23 Oct. 23 28 6 6 8 8 8 8 2 10 Count of dead seals, St. Paul Island, Alaska. Eookery. Ketavie Lukannon Lagoon Polavina Garbotch Zapadnie English Bay Tolstoi Reef Sea Lion Rock .. Northeast Point. Pups. 854 1,347 300 1,970 1,514 5,231 381 2,582 3,376 361 4,017 Total 21,933 Cows. 7 8 2 2 7 15 2 8 25 25 101 Bulls. 20 Total. 861 1,355 303 1,972 1,523 5,249 384 2,591 3,409 361 4,046 22,054 The above table shows the number of dead seal pups, cows, and bulls found upon the rookeries of St. Paul Island, Alaska, and actually counted between the dates of September 23,1895, and October 10, 1895. Thos. E. Adams, Special Agent, Treasury Department. Exhibit A. Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, June 30,1895. Name and relationship. ....do.... Atka Unalaska. St. Unalaska. St. Paul... ....do.... ....do.... Family 1—4 individuals: Artomonoff, Kerrick, husband Artomonoff, Alexandra, wife Ivanoif, Ardokia, sister-in-law ... Prokopief, Auxenia, daughter Family 2—3 individuals: Arkashoff, Arseny, husband Arkashoff, Mariana, wife Stepetin, John, stepson Family 3—3 individuals: Bogodanoff, Nicoli, husband Bogodanoff Oulita, wife Bogodanoff, Mary, sister Family 4—4 individuals: Bourdukoffsky, Apollon, husband Bourdukoffsky, Onionia, wife .... Bourdukoffsky, Peter, son Bourdukoffsky, Oulita, daughter. Family 5—6 individuals: Buterin, Karp, husband Buterin, Parascovia, wife Sediek, Constantino, stepson Sediek, Zahar, orphan Mezeekin, Mary, niece Mezeekin, Vassa Family 6—5 individuals: Emanoff, George, husband Emanoff, Catherine, wife Emanoff, Mary, daughter Emanoff, John, son Koznitzoff, John, nephew Family 7—5 individuals: Fratis, John, husband Fratis, Ankolina, wife Fratis, John, son Fratis, Simeon, son Fratis, Argrafina, daughter Family 8—3 individuals: Glotoff, John, husband Glotoff, Avdotia, wife Glotoff, Mary, mother | do Family 9—3 individuals: Gromoff, Nicoli, husband Gromoff, Oulrana, wife Place of birth. Northeast Point St. Michaels ....do St. Paul George .do .do St. Paul... Unalaska. St. Paul... ....do .... ....do .... ....do .... do do do do do Ladrone Islands Unalaska St. Paul ....do ....do St. Paul. ....do.. Attu.... St. Paul. Sediok, Elizabeth do H. Doc. 92 31 a Months. Age. 68 42 21 27 28 35 17 23 28 20 41 34 15 10 41 39 7 27 21 3 1 18 49 21 8 1 2 27 20 67 27 25 6 Remarks. Widow. 9 22 a2ty Daughter of Mary. Clothes furnished by company. 482 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. Paul Island,.Alaska, June 80,1895—Continued. Name and relationship. Place of birth. Age. Remarks. Family 10—4 individuals: Galaxtioneff, Alexander, husband Galaxtioneff, Martha, wife............ 23 34 15 «2 37 18 2 43 53 6 24 20 a8 43 40 19 10 6 2 15 51 44 8 17 37 9 7 42 43 5 2 44 34 10 4 38 29 13 Unalaska............. St. Paul Clothes furnished by company. Daughter of Claudia. Family 11—3 individuals: Sitka St. Paul do Family 12—3 individuals: Haberoff, Paul, husband........... Unalaska ........ Shabolin, Agrafina, adopted daughter. Family 13—3 individuals: St.Paul do St. Paul Family 14—7 individuals: do St. Paul KOCh^otftTl, 1511^11, flflJIgntiAF » do Kochooten, Theodore, son ......... ..do Kochooten, Larion, son .... . ..do Lodoshnikoff, Matalia, stepdaughter.. Family 15—3 individuals: Kochooten, Eupheme, husband St.Paul Unalaska .......... St.Paul Family 16—4 individuals: KooherjpT*, GAorgA, son . do 1 Provisions furnished by 1 Government. Clothing { for widow and daughters Tetoff, Feclusia, widowed mother Kurile Islands St.Paul ..do. j furnished by company. Family 17—4 individuals: Kozeroff, Stepan, husband............ Unalaska............. Kozeroff, Anastasia, wife ......... ..do Ko/ftrnflF, Ton ally, "on St. Paul Kozeroff, Alexandra, daughter ....... do Family 18—4 individuals: Krukoff,Nicoli, husband............. Sitka Atka Krukoff, Metrofan, son. ........... St. Paul do Family 19—4 individuals:r Sitka "] This family is supported by the company. John M. j draws clothing on Government orders. Krukoff, Feoctcsta, wife........... St. Paul Krukoff, John M., son .............. ..do .. Family 20—4 individuals: Mandrigan, Neon, father............ St. George............ 37 10 8 4 19 18 1 5 39 13 9 7 60 20 20 14 27 27 8 1 87 31 11 9 Mandrigan, Mary, daughter ...... St. Paul Mandrigan, Zoo, daughter........... ..t..do ................ Mandrigan, Innokenty, son do Family 21—4 individuals: Merculiff, Alexandra, husband Merculiff, Agafia, wife. St.Paul ...do . ..do .. ..do . Family 22—5 individuals: Melividov, Anton, father............ Kodiak ............ Melividov, Alexandra, daughter Melividov, Olga, daughter. St. Paul do Melividov, Mary, daughter.......... do .. Melividov, Alexandra, mother....... Oaliforn ia............. Family 23—8 individuals:' Melividov, Alexander, husband St. Paul do Melividov, An ton, sou...... do Family 24 4 individuals: Melividov,Simeon, husband......... Sitka A k ootan.............. Melividov, Margret. daughter St. Paul do Family 25—5 individuals: Nederazoff, Stepan, husband ......... St. Paul Attu Nederazoff, Mary, niece.............. St. Paul.. Nederazoff, Mary..................... do .. Olntbas fnTnlfihfin" "hv mm. do pany. 4 | Do. a Months. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, June SO, 1895—Continued. Name and relationship. Family 26—4 individuals: Nederazoff, Martin, husband Nederazoff, Catherine, wife Shane, Mary, stepdaughter Shane, Parascovia, stepdaughter. Family 27—2 individuals: Nozekoff, Simeon, husband Nozekoff, Anastasia, wife........ Family 28—4 individuals: Oustigoff, Peter, husband Oustigoff, Parascovia, wife ...... Oustigoff, Niel, son Oustigoff, Stepanida, mother Family 29—5 individuals: Pankoff, Parferie, husband ...... Pankoff, Olga, wife Pankoff, Blasa, son Pankoff, Varvara, daughter Shaisnekoff, George Family 30—2 individuals: Parauchin, Daniel, husband Paranchin, Alexandra, wife Family 31—5 individuals: Reseff, Rev. Nicoli, husband Reseff, Matrona, wife Reseff, Olga, daughter Ignatief, Anna, orphan .......... Giliof, Mary, orphan Family 32—7 individuals: Sediek, Theodore, husband Sediek, Martha, wife Sediek, Mary, daughter Sediek, Oustmia, daughter Sediok, Matrona, daughter Sediek, Innokenty, son Sediek, Philip, nephew Family 33—4 individuals: Seduli, Vassili, husband Seduli, Elizabeth, wife Seduli, Vera, daughter Mezeeken, Ivan, adopted son Family 34—3 individuals: Shabolin, Necon, husband Shabolin, Feocla, wife Shabolin, Apollenaria, daughter.. Family 35—2 individuals: Shaisnekoff, Paul, uncle Shaisnekoff, Valerian, nephew... Family 36—4 individuals: Stepeton, Elary, husband Stepeton, Anna, wife Stepeton, Ouliana, daughter Stepeton, Paola, daughter Family 37—3 individuals: Stepeton, Dorafay, husband Stepeton, Vassa, wife Stepeton, Vassili, son Family 38—5 individuals: Terrakanoff, Kerrick, husband ... Terrakanoff, Anna, wife Nederazoff, Agrafina, niece Nederazoff, Alesie Shane, Elefery Family 39—4 individuals: Tetoff, Neon, husband........... Tetoff, Agrafina, wife Tetoff, Simeon, son Tetoff, Zahar, brother Family 40—3 individuals: Tetoff, Peter, husband , Tetoff, Neaey, wife Tetoff, Alexandra, sister Family 41— 5 individuals: Volkoff, Markel, husband........ Volkoff, Alexandra, wife Volkoff, Techon, son Volkoff, Arifa, son y, Merculiff, John, son Family 42—4 individuals: Balakshin, Matrona, widow , Shaposhnikoff, Parascovia Rookovishnikoff Anna, orphan . Rookovishnikoff, Stepan, orphan Place of birth. St. Paul.... Sitka St. George. ....do Unalaska. St. Paul... St. George. St. Paul... do St George St. Paul... St. George St. Paul... do.... do.... St. Paul... Unalaska. Sitka... do.. Kodiak. Barka .. Atka ... St. Paul... Unalaska. St. Paul... do.... do .... do.... do.... Kodiak... Unalaska St.Paul.., do... St.Paul.... St. George St. Paul... St. Paul. do.. St. Paul... Unalaska. St.Paul... do... St. Paul.... St. George. St. Paul..-. St. Paul. Sitka... St. Paul. .do .do St Paul... Unalaska, St Paul.. do.... St Paul... St. George St Paul.. Atka Unalaska. St Paul... do.... do.... Unalaska. St. Paul... do... do... 40 37 15 18 18 31 27 4 60 32 32 6 3 12 36 33 66 60 23 16 17 47 40 7 6 4 9 16 52 54 14 4 28 25 1 59 15 31 24 5 2| 24 21 2 41 35 26 5 5 25 20 15 30 34 16 50 41 21 li 10 45 28 10 13 Remarks. Clothing furnished by company. Adopted daughter. Do. Clothing furnished by company. Son of Agrafina. Clothing furnished by company. ^ 484 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Census of St. Paul Island, Alaska, June 80, 1895- —Continued. Name and relationship. Place of birth. Age. Remarks. Family 43—1 individual: St Paul 59 34 11 12 36 8 6 14 30 24 29 4 41 14 35 5 a2 10 49 14 35 29 5 61 51 31 26 75 42 41 14 39 10 Family 44:—3 individuals: Koshovnikoff, Avdotia, widow St.Paul do do 1 Family 45—6 individuals: Kozloff Parascovia, widow.......... St.Paul do do Serebnnkoff. Olffa. sister............. do ., do Daughter of Olga's. Family 46—2 individuals: "KTnkrrff Anna widow.. ......... St Paul Kozeroff, Sundulee, adopted daughter Family 47—2 individuals: do St. Paul do • Draws clothes on Govern Family 48—4 individuals: ment orders. St. Paul do _ ..do | Family 49—2 individuals: St.Paul do Family 50—1 individual: do Family 51—2 individuals: Rookovishnekoff, Anesia, widow Rookovishnekoff, Parascovia, daughter. Family 52—1 individual: Unalaska St.Paul St.Michaels Family 53—3 individuals: Unalaska............. St. Paul do Family 54—2 individuals: do do Familv 55—2 individuals: Volkoff, Ellen, aunt St. Paul do Family 56—2 individuals: Kushin, Mary, grass widow . Husband at Unalaska. Kushin, Michael, son St.Paul ORPHAN GIRLS AT SCHOOL IN UNALASKA BELONGING TO ST. PAUL ISLAND. Sediek, Avdotia Krukoff, Lukeria Koznitzoff, Agafia ... Merculiff, Leiboff Ivanoff, Anastasia... Zakaroff, Feodosia ... Zatzmanoff, Auxenia. Fratis, Ellen St.Paul... Unalaska. St.Paul... do.... do .... do .... do .... do .... 14 18 17 19 17 16 14 13 Daughter of John Fratis. a Months. RECAPITULATION. Families 56 Resident inhabitants 199 Nonresident inhabitants 8 Total native population 207 Female inhabitants 120 Male inhabitants 87 Females in excess of males 33 Inhabitants born outside of seal islands 51 Male adults 43 Males between 5 and 17 years 26 Males nnder 5 years IS ~87 Female adults .,. 72 Females between 5 and 17 years 33 Females under 5 years 15 120 Marriages 2 Births 6 Deaths 2 Departures from Island 1 Net increase in population from June 30,1894, to June 30,1895 , 8 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 485 Census of St. George Island, Alaska, June 80,1895. Name and relationship. Age. Name and relationship. Age. Family 1—3 individuals: Galanin PaxfiTe husband............... 22 17 ad 39 40 8 49 14 31 7 9 22 60 25 18 26 26 4 3 1 «3 18 43 11 10 13 8 23 41 21 10 5 2 30 35 16 7 20 17 41 21 4 45 25 2 aQ Family 12—3 individuals: 31 Galanin Eimhronia. wife .. ............ 18 Galanin,Elexia,son..................... aB Family 2—3 individuals: Gorokoff, Corniel, husband.............. Family 13—6 individuals: 50 Gorokoff Katherine. wife 33 Galanin, Alexander, adopted son Family 3—2 individuals: Kulikuloff, Evan, widower ........ 22 Philomanoff, Afgania, daughter. 21 Philomanoff, Demitri, son Oustigoff, Susanna, adopted daughter... Family 14—6 individuals: 8 Zacharoff, Emanuel, adopted son Family 4— 3 individuals: TjAstnikoff Demitri. widower ........... 8 45 Lestnikoff Anna,daughter............. 22 Merculiff,Mark, adopted son ... 20 Family 5-^4 individuals| Lestnikoff Michael, bachelor .. Philomanoff, Fedosia, daugther . 13 Philomanoff, Zoya, daughter 3 TiAstnikoff Elizebeth. mother .. 1 Lestnikoff, Mary, sister. Family 15—2 individuals: Lestnikoff, Sarah, sister........... 30 Family 6—6 individuals: Lekanoff, Stepan, husband...... .... 18 Family 16—5 individuals: Philomanoff, Andronic, husband Philomanoff, Zenobia, wife '. Lekanoff, Pelegia, wife 28 Lekanoff, Anatole, son ........ 30 Lekanoff,Sergius,son........... . Philomanoff, Marian, daughter 5 Lekanoff, Sarah, daughter. ..... Philomanoff, Mary, daughter 2 Lekanoff, Mariana daughter . Philomanoff, Leonti, son 1 Family 7—6 individuals: Merculiff,Evan,bachelor ...... Family 17—3 individuals: 17 Merculiff, Vasalisa, mother ... Rezanzoff, Fedosia, mother 51 Merculiff, Avdotia,sister ...... . Rezanzoff, Serephina, sister 7 Merculiff, Elexandra, sister Family 18—3 individuals: Merculiff, Nicoli, brother........ 49 Merculiff, Helena, sister .... 53 Family 8—6 individuals: Rezanzoff, Fatiama, daughter......... 11 Family 19—3 individuals: Swetzoff, Eustin, husband Merculiff, Euphronia, mother . 44 Merculiff, George, brother....... Swetzoff, Christine, wife 37 Merculiff,Helena,sister ....... 9 Merculiff,Evan,brother Family 20—2 individuals: Merculiff, Marfa, sister............ 32 Family 9—5 individuals: Malavansky, Nicoli, bachelor Galanin, Evan, son 13 Family 21—3 individuals: Philomanoff, Parascova, widow Malavansky, Repsimia, sister 31 Malavansky, Stepenida, niece Philomanoff, Pelegia, daughter 5 Malavansky, Peter, nephew ....... Philomanoff, Fecla, daughter a6 Malavansky, Vassa, sister ... .... Family 22—4 individuals: Shane, Riessa, widow Family 10—4 individuals: Nederazoff,Nicoli,bachelor............. 43 Shane, Uleta, daughter 26 Nederazoff, Evgenia, mother .... 7 Nederazoff, Melania, sister.... ....... Merculiff, Stepan, nephew 4 Nederazoff, Isadore, brother Family 23—2 individuals: Swetzoff, Polexania, widow Family 11—4 individuals: 35 3 Oustigoff, Marfa, wife. Oustigoff, Alexandra, daughter • Oustigoff, Stepineda, daughter.......... a Months. RECAPITULATION. Families 23 Individuals 88 Males 40 Females 48 Males between 6 and 16 years 9 Males under 6 years 9 Males over 16 years. 22 40 Females betweeen 6 and 16 years 9 Females under 6 years 11 Females over 16 years 28 48 Sealers and families, supported by the Government 76 Widows and orphans, supported by company 12 88 486 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Report of the resident physician. St. Paul Island, June, 1, 1895. Dear Sir : The resident physician respectfully submits the following report on the public health of St. Paul Island during the year ending June 1, 1895: Two epidemics have visited the island. The first in October, of influenza; the other, varicella, occurred in March, 1895. An endemic, gastro-enteric in type, broke out in the latter part of February, immediately after the opening of the winter seal- meat cache. This meat had been piled up on the ground before being thoroughly cooled, and the layers lowest became tainted. There were 30 cases of influenza severe enough to make note of, 8 cases of pneumonia, 5 cases of pleurisy, and 3 cases of phthisis pulmonalis. Acute bronchitis has been very common. Hsemophthesis has, as in previous years, been frequent. Of the eye, conjunctivitis and iritis have been most common; of the ear, otitis media of the throat, tonsilitis. and pharyngitis. One case of cellulitis requiring surgical interference occurred in Sanko Melevedov from exposure on the last killing field last year. Five severe cases of icterus occurred. In the surgical line there has been done the following: Operation on Axanosia Popoff, for suppurative synovitis of the left knee, December 21,1895; good recovery. Operation on Mrs. Elory Stepetin, for osteosarcoma of the antrum, December 29, 1894. Incision made over the tumor and diseased bone, and neoplastic tissue removed to the posterior vault of the pharynx; part of the floor of the orbit removed; eyeball intact; good recovery; no return as yet. Fracture of the radius: Mrs. Nikoli Krukof. Circumcision for paraphimosis. Two cases requiring surgical aid. Dislocation of the lower jaw. A number of oases of minor surgery, scalp wounds, etc., occurred, but none severe enough to require special mention. Sixty-seven teeth were extracted. Since November, 1894, there have been 993 prescriptions given out. This does not include simple requests for salts, etc., but represents closely the number of cases of sickness requiring examination and diagnosis which have occurred during that time. Two deaths have occurred. First. The daughter of Theo Sedic, age 11 months. The child had an attack of influenza early in October, but made a good recovery. I was notified of its last illness. It died, as far as I can learn, while undergoing the native process of manipulation, by Ellen Voekof. Second. Mrs. Neon Mandregin, cause, acute phthisis. The births were 6 in number: To Agrafia Merculif, a son, July 4,1894; Alexandria Melevedov, a son, August 11, 1894; Fatiana Koochooten, a son, November 4, 1894; Mary Messekin, a daughter, February 10, 1895; Evdotia Popoff, a daughter, April 24, 1895, and Claudia Vikoulof, a daughter, May 3,1895. Increase in population, 4. At the bottom of by far the majority of troubles among the natives is that vague constitutional condition known as the stromous diaothesis or scrofula. It shows itself chiefly in a general lack of the phosphates and mineral salts in the native physiological economy. Little can be accomplished in the way of remedying this condition by the various medicinal sirups or emulsions until they can be induced to adopt a diet which will furnish the regular daily demand of nature for those essential constituents of the body. To this end I would suggest that the next year's food supply contain a larger percentage of those foods rich in phosphates and easily convertible hydrocarbons, as for example, of fats, lard, buttermilk, sweet oil, and of foods containing phosphates and earthy salts, oatmeal, graham flour, cracked wheat, graham crackers, etc. It would also be advantageous if the Government agent would encourage the raising of such vegetables as will grow here, such as turnips, radishes, lettuce, etc. One of the most serious obstacles in the way of attempts to improve the physical condition of the people is the fact that most of them are such inferior cooks. Since March 7, 1895, the resident physician has taken the obstetrical work in his own hands. On that day, Mrs. Julia Resef gave birth to a dead child under such circumstances that he felt it a matter of necessity to put a stop if possible to the further ministrations of the native midwife, Ellen Volkof. A communication was sent to the Government agent, who took immediate steps to that effect. The village has been cleaned and disinfectant thrown in the garbage holes. In concluding, the resident physician would like to acknowledge the hearty support, both moral and material, given him by the United States Government agent, Mr. Judge, in every attempt to better the pnblic hygiene. Very respectfully, Gardner Perry Pond, M. D Mr. J. Stanley-Browh, Superintendent North American Commercial Company. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 487 Exhibit B. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. Paul Island, Alaska, during the year ended August 1, 1895. Date. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggre gate. Large young seals. Skins accepted by lessees. Accepted (prime). Skins accepted. Total number of seals killed. 1894. Afcg. 10 Nov. 6 24 132 12 147 1 87 2 3 218 2 474 6 79 3 76 3 24 132 12 147 1 87 2 3 218 2 474 6 79 3 76 3 24 Middle Hill 132 17 12 21 Reef 147 24 1 25 87 25 Watchmen Half Way Pointv.............. 2 25 Watchmen Southwest Bay................ 3 28 218 Deo. 1 Watchmen Northeast Point............... 2 4 Tolstoi, Lukannon, Garbotch, and Reef 474 1895. May 27 28 6 Reef 79 June 1 3 4 Reef 76 8 Watchmen Northeast Point. 3 13 Tolstoi. 184 2 1,961 1,548 575 751 861 364 960 431 1,138 324 834 827 286 184 2 1,961 1,548 575 751 861 364 960 431 1,138 324 834 827 286 184 16 2 20 1,961 24 Reef ! 1,548 26 Half Way Point 1 575 July 1 751 2 861 3 364 9 960 10 do 431 15 Reef 1,138 17 Half Way Point 324 19 Zapadnie ..... ............... 834 22 Northeast Point. - ._ . 827 27 Lukannon .. 286 Aug. 1 Reef Total 185 185 185 1,454 1,454 11,046 11,046 12,500 I 488 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. Annual statement of fur seals killed on St. George Island, Alaska, during the year ended July 81, 1895. Date. Rookery. Number of seals killed for natives' food. Number of seals killed by lessees for skins. Aggregate. Large young seals. Skins accepted by lessees. Accepted (prime). Skins accepted. Total number of seals killed. 1894. Oct. 20 North 58 3 19 3 3 14 35 3 3 1 13 16 25 58 3 19 3 3 14 35 3 3 58 3 19 3 3 14 35 3 3 1 13 16 25 139 483 2 471 2 156 232 3 538 3 279 i 58 23 Zapadnie (killed by guards) 3 26 East 19 29 North 3 30 Zapadnie (killed by guards) .............. 3 Nov. 2 /.do .".. ! 14 6 North '. 35 6 Zapadnie (killed by guards) 3 13 3 20 do 1 1 Dec. 3 North 13 16 25 13 1895. May 25 June 3 Great East 16 North do 25 14 139 483 2 471 2 156 232 3 538 3 279 7 139 24 Starry Arteel 483 24 Zapadnie (killed by guards) 2 26 Great and Little East 471 29 Zapadnie (killed by guards) 2 July 1 8 North '. 156 Zapadnie 232 8 Zapadnie (killed by guards) .. .. 3 11 Great and Little East 538 20 Zapadnie (killed by guards) 3 22 279 30 Zapadnie (killed by guards) f7 Total 196 196 2,315 2,511 2,511 Eleven of the foregoing skins, taken from seals killed for native food during the fall of 1894, were damaged by blue foxes, leaving 2,500 marketable skins to be shipped by the lessees. Thos. E. Adams, Assistant Special Treasury Agent. Exhibit C. Receipts for fur-seal skins shipped from the seal islands, including eleven skins shipped to the collector of customs at San Francisco, Cal., 1895. Island op St. Paul, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 11, 1895. This is to certify that 12,500 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha, J. M. Hays, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company at San Francisco, Cal. James Judge, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island of St. George, Bei'ing Sea, Alaska, August 14,1895. This is to certify that 2,500 fur-seal skins have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha, J. M. Hays, master, consigned to the North American Commercial Company, San Francisco, Cal. Thomas E. Adams, Assistant Treasury Agent. Island op St. George, Bering Sea, Alaska, August 14,1895. This is to certify that 11 damaged fur-seal skins boxed have this day been shipped on board the North American Commercial Company's steamer Bertha (J. M. Hays, master), consigned to the collector of customs, San Francisco, Cal. Thos. E. Adams, Assistant Treasury Agent. ALASKA INDUSTRIES. 489 Exhibit D. Distribution of community fund, St. Paul Island, Alaska, August 1,1895—Division No. 6, To 12,500 prime fur-seal skins, at 50 cents $6,250.00 To 140 prime fur-seal skins, taken in 1894, rejected by local agent, subsequently accepted by the lessees, but not included in Division No. 5 70.00 First class: Arkashof, Arseny 164.38 Bourdukoffsky, Apollon 164.38 Buterin, Karp 164.38 Gromof, Nicoli 164.38 Kochooten, Jacob 164.38 Kochooten, John 164.38 Kozernf, Stepan 164.38 Krukof, Nicoli 164.38 Mandregan, Neon 164.38 Melevedov, Anton 164.38 Nedarazof, Martin 164.38 Nedarazof, Stepan , 164.38 Ovstegof, Peter 164.38 Pankof, Parfiri 164.38 Baranchin, Daniel 164.38 Reseff, Nicoli 164.38 Sediek, Theodore 164.38 Stepetin, Elary 164.38 Terrakanof, Kerrick 164.38 Tetof, Peter I 164.38 Tetof, Neon 164.38 Volkof, Markel 164.38 Second class: Artomanof, Kerrick 131.52 Bogodanof, Nicoli 131.52 Emanof, George 131* 52 Fratis, John 131.52 Galaktionef, Alexander 131.52 Golotof, John 131.52 Haberof, Paul 131* 52 Kochooten, Eupheme 131.52 Koznitzof, John 131.52 Merculief, Alexander 131.52 MelevedoVs Alexander 131.52 Seduli, Vassily 1 131*. 52 Shabolin, Necon 131.52 Stepetin, Dorofay 13L52 Shaisnakof, Paul 131.52 Third class: Hansen, Alexander 105.21 Melevedov, Simeon 105.21 Nozekof, Simeon 105.21 Stepetin, John 105!21 Fourth class: Kochergin, George 30.00 Krukof, John M " 30.00 Krukof, John N 30.00 Krukof, Maxim I 30.00 Sediek, Philip ] 30! 00 Shaisnikof, Valerian | 30.00 Tetof, Zahar 30.00 Special class: Nicoli Krukoff (first chief) 50.00 Nicoli Gromoff (second chief) \ 5o!oO $6,320.00 3,616.36 1,972.80 420.84 210 100 490 ALASKA INDUSTRIES. We, the undersigned, do hereby certify that the foregoing Is a true statement of the distribution of the community fund, derived from taking fur-seal skins on the island of St. Paul during the season of 1895; that the apportionment is just and equitable; that the amount set opposite each name has been credited to such native sealer on the books of the North American Commercial Company, and also placed to their credit on their pass books. Subscribed this the 2d day of August, 1895. J. C. Redpath, Agent North American Commercial Company. Nicoli Krukofp, First Chief. Nicoli Gromoff, Second Chief. Joseph B. Crowley, Special Treasury Agent in Charge Seal Islands. Distribution of community fund, St. George Island, Bering Sea, Alaska—Division No. 6. To taking 2,500 fur-seal skins, at 50 cents $1,250.00 By seven men, first class $475.37 By eight men, second class 434.56 By six men, third class 244.50 By one man, fourth class ■. 20.57 By salary to first chief 50.00 By salary to second chief 25.00 1,250.00 First class: =■ Demetri Lestinkoff '. 67.91 Eustin Sweztoff 67.91 Eoff Philomonoff 67.91 Simeon Philomonoff 67.91 Elexia Oustigoff 67.91 Corniel Grokoff 67.91 Joseph Merculiff 67.91 Second class: 475.37 Nicoli Melovansky 54.32 Peter Rezanzoff 54.32 Andronic Philomanoff 54.32 Stephan Lekanoff 54.32 Simeon Oustigoff 54.32 Parfiri Galanin 54.32 Michael Lestinkoff 54.32 Peter Prokopief 54.32 Third class i iU'5e George Merculiff 40.75 Gregory Philomanoff 40.75 Evan Kulikuloff 40.75 Innokenty Rezanzoff 40.75 Nicoli Nederazoff 40.75 Evan Merculiff 40.75 Fourth class: W 244.50 Innokenty Philomanoff.... 20.57 Special: Demetri Lestenkoff (first chief) 50.00 Eustin Swetzoff (second chief) 25.00 75.00 We hereby certify that the foregoing is a true statement of the distribution of the community fund, derived from the taking of fur-seal skins on the island of St. George, Alaska, during the season of 1895; that the apportionment is just and equitable, and that each individual sealer has been credited on the books of the North American Commercial Company with the same amount as herein set opposite each name, etc. St. George Island, August 1,1895. Thos. E. Adams, Assistant Special Agent. Daniel Webster, Agent North American Commercial Company. Demetri Lestenkoff, Native Chief. APPENDIX. By David Starr Jordan and George Archibald Clark. As stated in the prefatory note to this volume, the present writers have been asked by the Secretary of the Treasury to prepare a brief appendix in which such errors of fact or opinion as appear in the foregoing text maybe noted and corrected in the light of the detailed investigations of the fur-seal question and related subjects undertaken in 1896 and 1897. In the following notes, prepared in response to this request, reference is made in each case to the' author of the article in question, the year in which it was written, and the page on which it is printed. W. A. Howard, 1868 : Page 3. It is not true that the sea otter and the fur seal have been driven by man northward from California to the Arctic regions, or that they are in danger of perishing there from cold because "nature intended them for a warmer climate." The habits of the fur seal and sea otter, totally different one from another, were not distinguished by early writers, and traces of this confusion still persist. The fur seal pursues its migrations with the regularity of clockwork, returning to its haunts in utter indifference to man and his actions, and has undergone no appreciable changes in location or habit since it was first known. The sea otter, shyest of shy animals, flees from contact with man and wanders from place to place, abandoning every rookery where man has left his traces, and at the present day in Alaska it seldom visits the land for any purpose, breeding in the sea. Hiram Ketchum, 1868: Page 4. It is not true that the first males who land reconnoiter the coast and return to communicate with other males and then with the main host. The fur seals, male and female, come individually, not in a body, and each one arriving remains till the force of hunger or other personal instincts draws him back to the sea. jB| It is not true that " loud noises, the appearance of blood, or the active signs of habitation deter the seal from settling upon the coast." These matters affect the sea otter, but not the fur seal, who is stolidly indifferent to everything except moving objects. 481 -I 492 APPENDIX. There is not the slightest foundation for the idea that " reckless hunting of the fur seal by inexperienced hands will have the effect of driving him to other shores," nor is there the slightest foundation for the story that the seals have ever, in whole or in part, deserted the American islands to take refuge on the Commander islands. The two herds are wholly distinct and have been so for centuries. The Kuril herd is distinct from both the others. Hiram Ketchum, 1868: Page 5. The idea that the first males are sentinels or scouts, who report to the main body, is one naturally suggested by their behavior, but it has no foundation in fact. E. C. Jordan, 1869: Page n. The number of fur seals taken on St. Paul and St. George in 1868 is here underestimated at 140,000. A closer estimate places the number at about 300,000. S. N. Buynitzky, 1870: Page 18. It is not probable that the fur seals avoid the sandy beaches on account of the danger of the surf to their young. The animals prefer the rocks because they sink in the sand when walking, and because rocks do not become filthy. It is not probable that females recognize their former mates, or at least that they have any preference for them. For their former stations both males and females seem to show some preference. The average size of the harem is about thirty females rather than ten. As not more than half the females are ever present at one time, the count of those in sight is misleading. It is still currently believed by the natives that the skin of an overheated animal is worthless because the fur is liable to fall out. We have been unable to verify this statement and doubt its truth. The statement that "thousands of old bulls encumber the rookeries" indicates that at that time male seals on the islands were, as now, in excess of the females. Few of these are, however, really decrepit, as in general only the strong return in the spring from the winter migrations. Charles Bryant, 1871: Page 20. It is true that the breeding males occupy the rookeries " without leaving their places until the end of Julyj" but the females come and go regularly from the feeding grounds. It is not clear how Captain Bryant arrives at the conclusion that the conditions of 1871 showed u a decrease in the number of females * * * equal to 10 per cent of the two former years" (1869-70). Undoubtedly the herd suffered a natural loss at sea as indicated by him, but this loss was a customary one and was compensated for by the accession of 3-year-old females as breeders. His suggestion of possible necessity for restricting the number of young males to be taken is of course groundless. The killing of males could not have any influence on the increase or decrease of the herd until at least five years after the killing was done. The fact that a steady increase of females is noted and that the herd continued to yield its full quota of 100,000 skins for fifteen years after shows that the decrease here noted did not exist. APPENDIX. 493 Charles Bryant, 1871: Page 30. It is likely that the reference here to the taking of pups about Sitka is intended to refer to some of the Aleutian Islands, where to this day pups are taken in the bays and inlets while the herd is passing southward into the Pacific Ocean. As the pups and their mothers leave the islands in company, and as the latter are taken off the California coast in December, their course south must be very direct. It is only on the return trip in March, April, and May that the seals are taken along the coast of British Columbia and in the vicinity of Sitka. Charles Bryant, 187a: Page 36. It is here suggested that the "4 and 5 year old bulls perform an important service along the shores during the period of incubation." A 4 or even 5 year old bull can not obtain a place on the breeding grounds. The males Captain Bryant has in mind are doubtless 6 and 7 year olds, which tease and obstruct the movements of the females when landing or going to sea. They are not essential to the welfare of the rookeries, except as they represent a maturing reserve of bulls, and they probably seldom serve cows. Samuel Falconer, 1872: Page 39. While the restriction here noted relating to the use of firearms on and about the rookeries is wise, the inference that it had anything to do with the increase of the seals is without warrant. The only effect which the use of firearms about the rookeries could have would be to temporarily drive the seals into the water. It would not drive them from the islands. Samuel Falconer, 1873: Page 56. The weight of the pup when born instead of being 6 to 8 pounds as here stated, is between 11 and 12 pounds. It is an error to suppose that the pups are taught to swim, or even assisted in the art, by the older seals of any class. The young bachelors hanging about the rookery fronts frequently play with the swimming pups and tease them, but the bulls and cows pay no attention to them. The first pups to seek the water may follow the example of the departing cows and the later ones follow the example of the earlier, but they are not in any sense | taught | to swim. It has been currently believed as here reported that many pups are killed by the surf, and a few are undoubtedly so killed, but the number is insignificant. Before the pup has learned to swim well it keeps to the shallow and protected pools. When it has become expert, it likes nothing better than to play among the breakers, and does so with impunity. It is suggested under the head of copulation that the service by the bull I continues at intervals of a week for each female." There is no reason whatever to suppose that the act of copulation is repeated with the same female. Samuel Falconer, 1874: Page 57. It is not true to any considerable extent that the yearlings of | both sexes haul up on the backgrounds." Occasionally a yearling cow will be found among the bachelors, but the number is very small. Such of 494 APPENDIX. them as come to the islands spend their time among the pups of the year on the breeding grounds. It may be that the yearling females as a class do not come to the islands at all. Samuel Falconer, 1874: Page 58. The figures of Mr. Elliott are here correctly given. His estimate was 163,420, but this included only "breeding seals and young," not seals of " all classes," as Mr. Falconer suggests. The opinion here expressed that on St. George Island there is but one seal where "there are twenty on St. Paul" coincides with Mr. Elliott's estimate, which gave to St. Paul, in round numbers, a population of 3,030,000 "breedingseals and young" and to St. George 163,000. That such a disproportion was unwarranted, however, is evident from the fact that St. George up to 1873 had furnished one-third as many seals as St. Paul. In 1874 and for a time after it furnished slightly more than one-sixth as many, and never fell below one-ninth of the quota of St. Paul. Samuel Falconer, 1874: Page 59. In discussing the departure of the seals, Mr. Falconer intimates that "a few old bulls remain behind to protect the females." He here misinterprets the fact that a certain number ol the breeding bulls return to their places on the rookery after feeding. These remain among the cows and pups during the fall, coming and going from the feeding grounds. They leave at about the same time as the cows. The bachelor seals as a class remain latest, in open winters not leaving the vicinity of the islands at all. The views here expressed that "the favorite haunts" of the seals " are the shores of British Columbia and lower Alaska," and that "the fish upon which they live are more abundant in shallow than in deep water," are derived from a misapprehension of the habits of the animals. That some of the seals come into the bays and inlets of still water off the British Columbian and Alaskan coasts is doubtless true, but they have no landing place there, nor do they specially frequent these waters. They make a rapid trip south through the Pacific Ocean to the latitude of southern California, where they strike the coast and return slowly along its length. On their migrations the main body of the herd keep well off shore. A platting of sealing catches, including some 120,000 animals made by Mr. C. H. Townsend in 1896, shows that the seals are found for the main part off the 100-fathom line. Even in Bering Sea they feed in deep water. They rarely molest the shore fishes, and do not to any considerable extent devour species used for food. Charles Bryant, 1875: Page 64. It is here stated that " one male is considered equivalent to ten or more females." The actual proportion, as found in 1896-97, is about one bull to thirty cows. It is probable that the only warrant Captain Bryant had for concluding that the killing of 100,000 males each year had been detrimental to the herd was this low estimate of the size of the average harem. The estimate was reached by ignoring the fact that never more than half the cows in any harem are present. That the killing of males was not detrimental is clearly enough shown by the fact that for at least twelve years subsequent the full quota was taken without injury to the herd, and it only became excessive after the breeding herd had declined under pelagic sealing. APPENDIX. 495 Charles Bryant, 1875: Page 65. This account of the return of the females, and the period between delivery and service by the bull is essentially correct. But while a certain number of cows are caught on landing and appropriated by the bulls, the great mass of them slip in quietly and take their places in the harems of their choice. The pup is born from a few hours to three days after landing, and the cow takes the bull in about five or six days more. About the 1st of August the adult bulls leave the rookeries to feed, but many of them return again to spend the rest of the season among the cows and pups in their old places. The copulation at sea here referred to by Mr. Bryant does not occur. He has probably mistaken the playing of the seals in the water for the act of copulation. Charles Bryant, 1875: Page 66. In making the statement that the " method of killing does not admit of setting apart * * * the requisite number for breeding purposes," Captain Bryant overlooks the fact that there were inaccessible hauling grounds, as Otter Island, Sivutch Bock, Lagoon, Zapadni iead, etc , from which the seals could not be driven, and which were doubtless then, as now, nearly adequate to supply the necessary increment of breeding bulls. The feeling here and elsewhere freely expressed by Captain Bryant of danger in land killing seems not to have been justified by the history of subsequent years. Charles Bryant, 1875: Page 67. Whatever may have been the grounds on which Captain Bryant based his belief in the inadequacy of the supply of breeding bulls, the subsequent history of the herd did not confirm it. Had there been the scarcity of male life here noted, it must have eventually showed itself in a diminution of killable seals, which did not occur within ten years at least. The reduction of the quota he contemplated could not have affected the herd within five years, as it would require this period for the young males to mature. At the same time, Captain Bryant notes an increase in the killable seals on St. George's Island, and recommends an increase of the quota by one-third (see p. 87; see also Falconer's report, 1876, p. 88). On page 42 Captain Bryant says, in 1873, that after taking the quota of 100,000 skins " there is still a surplus of males required for breeding purposes." He had also himself recommended the increase of the quota for 1874 from 100,000 to 130,000. In view of these and other contradictions of a similar sort we must conclude that Captain Bryant's fears were unfounded. Charles Bryant, 1876: Page 91. Here Captain Bryant gives the proportion of breeding males as 1 to 17, whereas, in his opinion, it should be 1 to 10. As we know, the percentage of males to females on the breeding grounds averages 1 to 30 to-day, and this proportion is not a matter of necessity but of natural adjustment. For every bull controlling a harem to-day there is an equally capable bull which can not get any cows. On the following page (92) we find that notwithstanding the fact that the necessity for a decrease in the quota to 80,000 is urged, at the same time it is asserted that among " the young males between the ages of 2 and 5 there is quite a visible increase." He also notes through all 496 APPENDIX. these years a steady increase in the breeding herd. In 1876 he says this amounts to 4 or 5 per cent. This of itself disproves the whole contention of scarcity of adult males. An undue absence of males would make itself felt in a diminished birth rate, and this in turn would affect the breeding females as a class, which is recruited solely by the accession of young 3-year-old females as breeders. Charles Bryant, 1876: Page 93. It is here intimated that the diminution of the quota in 1873 for St. George Island had the effect of steadily increasing the male seals, and consequently it is held that the quota can now be increased again. Nothing could be more absurd than this. The seals saved out by the reduction of the quota in 1873 could now be no more than 6 years of age, and those of 1874 and 1875 still younger; none were then of breeding age. The reduction of the quota therefore could not have had this effect. A consideration of the whole matter shows that Captain Bryant did not understand the circumstances fully, and finding a larger proportion of females to males than he had "made up his mind was proper, he decided that the one sex was increasing and the other diminishing. It is not possible for us to decide absolutely what was the fact, but it is plain from the history of the herd for the years immediately following that Captain Bryant's fears regarding the effect of the taking of the quota of 100,000 skins were groundless. The killing of males could do no harm to the rookeries so long as the males were really superfluous, as was certainly the case in the years in question. At no time on any of the Pribilof hauling grounds has the killing of males been nearly as close as is at present the case on Bering Island, yet of all the rookeries of the Commander Islands those of Bering Island held their own longest, because they were the last to be affected by pelagic sealing. While actual overkilling of males might be temporarily disastrous, there is no evidence that its supposed evils have ever been felt. There is not the slightest reason why the males hauling out on Otter Island (referred to on page 94) should not have been included in the lease, and their killing by raiders had or could have only the effect which similar killing on the hauling grounds of St. Paul could have, namely, to reduce the number of killable (not breeding) seals. Charles Bryant, 1877 : Page 99* Mr. Bryant supposes that many pups were destroyed by the storm of October 30 and 31. At this time they were three months and a half old, and able to swim well. To what extent drowning in storms is a source of loss at that age and later, has not yet been shown. Among the younger pups drowning is a very rare accident. The "considerable loss in the product of this year" which Captain Bryant anticipates, did not occur, as the killings of 1879 and 1880 show. The full quota was obtained, and none of the decrease complained of in 1875 and 1876 was visible. Harrison G. Otis, 1879: Page 120. According to Mr. Otis "many of the natives profess to believe that the seals are decreasing in numbers on St. Paul Island," and this fact is ascribed by them to the presence of the steam oil works. APPENDIX. 497 These people are unable to generalize in any effective degree and their opinions on such subjects are wholly valueless. The most intelligent native on St. George assured us that the seal herds were all right, because the old bulls came back regularly as ever. Mr. Otis was doubtless right in thinking that this notion of the natives was without foundation. It may have been an echo of the view of Captain Bryant in the years preceding. Harrison 6. Otis, 1880: Page 130. We find here the first distinct reference to the injury of the herd from pelagic hunting and of the international questions which might arise in connection with it. Mr. Otis notes in the same connection that the catch of 1880 "is but slightly below last year's figures at this date," but.in 1881 no contraction was apparent, while he finds a considerable surplus of idle bulls, " capable bulls who have been elbowed out of the family circle." The table published by Mr. Otis (page 143) shows that from 1871 to 1881, the number of killable seals was slowly increasing. George Wardman, 1882: Page 163. Mr. Nicholas Grebnitzky as quoted by Mr. Wardman is quite right in rejecting the suggestion "by a scientific writer on seal life that it is quite possible our fur seals may some day migrate to breeding grounds on the Eussian side." Henry A. Glidden, 1884: Page 168. Mr. Glidden visited St. George, where he ascertained "that the taking of 15,000 seals " there reduced the killable seals to such an extent as, in his opinion, "to endanger the seal life." Doubtless this number involved an over-killing, in the sense of an anticipation of the next year's quota. But there is no probability that the killing of 2-year-old bachelors to make up the quota of 3-year olds, had then or at any later time reduced the number of males to a point of danger to the herd. In 1883 Mr. Tingle notes a surplus of old idle bulls and recommends that 1,500 on St. Paul and 500 on St. George should be killed, which was doubtless a wise suggestion. These recommendations are interesting in view of the statements made by Captain Bryant in 1875-76 about the effect of killing for the quota on the herd. George R. Tingle, 1886: Page 197. This attempt at an enumeration of the seals through measurements of the acreage of the rookeries has very little value. It is not likely the increase here noted since 1872 (on Garbotch, for example, from 366,000 to 756,250 square feet) actually took place. Mr. Elliott in 1872 estimated 2 square feet for each seal, or 3,030,950 on St. Paul. Mr. Tingle found a number of square feet which on this basis would give 5,148,500 seals, or an increase in fourteen years of 2,137,550 animals. Mr. Tingle thinks " the space assigned to each seal by Mr. Elliott is not large enough, and a reduction of one-fourth from the figures above would give more nearly correctly the actual number of seals on the rookeries named." But a reduction of one-half would be still nearer. The fact is that both estimates represent little more than playing with figures—the sum of a series of estimates multiplied by an assumption. It must be borne in H. Doc. 92—32 498 APPENDIX. mind that this increase is found by Mr. Tingle at a time when, as is now well known, the herd was already declining under pelagic sealing. Mr. Tingle (p. 201) is doubtless right in supposing that the rookeries of St. George had been in 1872 relatively underrated by Mr. Elliott. Mr. Tingle (p. 202) estimates a loss of 10 per cent of the pups before they enter the water. This estimate, which is not far from correct, is, he says, I caused by bulls in preserving rigid discipline * * * in their domestic affairs." The discovery that most of this early loss is due to a parasitic ^yorm (Uncinaria) was not made till 1897. The number of 1 pups lost by being washed off the rocks by the surf before learning to swim " is, however, relatively very small, though it is certain that not more than half the pups which go to sea return as yearlings, and but one-third as 3-year olds. On page 205 Mr. Tingle correctly notes that the slaughter at sea will in a few years make it impossible for 100,000 skins to be taken on the islands by the lessees. The estimate that the 30,000 reported as taken at sea in 1887 involved the death of 300,000 may be an exaggeration. It is certain, however, that in the early years of pelagic sealing the number lost was greater than the number secured. It has taken time for hunters to learn when to shoot the swimming seal, and what size of shot is most effective. The loss by the use of the rifle was especially great. Charles J. Goff, 1890: Page 234. Mr. Goff assigns the cause of the rapid decline to 1 indiscriminate slaughter on the islands regardless of the future life of the breeding rookeries." There is, in our judgment, not the slightest positive evidence that this was the case. The excessively close killing for a number of years had reduced the bachelor herd, but we see no reason to believe that there was ever a lack of sufficient male life to impregnate all the females. The fact that " no 2-year olds of average size were turned away in 1890" would account for the scarcity of 3-year olds in 1891, but it would not involve a paucity of 10-year old males. It is, to say the least, doubtful whether any one could "stand on Old John Rock and count 10,000 fighting bulls." If that number ever existed on Garbotch and the Reef, no one could possibly have approached "Old John Rock." There is no doubt that a great decrease in the number of breeding seals as well as of killable seals had taken place; but these reductions were due to different causes: The reduction of breeding seals to the killing of females at sea, the reduced number of bachelors to the killing of the natural quota of 1-year olds as 2-year olds the year preceding. The reduced number of breeding seals also reduced each year the number of pups born. Joseph Murray, 1890: Page 236. The fact that the natives on St. George voted that " the seals had diminished and would diminish from year to year, because all the male seals had been slaughtered without allowing any to grow to maturity for use on the breeding grounds," has very little value, unless it is actually shown that there were too few males to form harems. It is also not clear on what grounds it was decided that "the seals have been steadily decreasing since 1880." APPENDIX. 499 William H. Williams, 1891: Page 273. Mr. Williams and his assistants reached the conclusion, true beyond all question, that 1 the seals were decreasing very rapidly, and that the cause of their decrease was pelagic or deep-sea hunting." " 1 am convinced," he says, | that the conclusion arrived at is the correct one, and any attempt to make it appear to be due to other causes is not warranted by the facts." The many subsequent investigations have only confirmed this just conclusion, and it is the essential fact in the whole fur-seal controversy. It is, moreover, one which every British discussion of the subject, of whatever grade, has persistently avoided. William H. Williams, 1891: Page 275. The dead pups seen on Tolstoi rookery in August, as shown in a photograph by Mr. George M. Dawson, for a copy of which we are indebted to Mr. Macoun, were undoubtedly in large measure killed by Uncinaria. But many were also starved. It is unquestionably true that every pup whose mother dies before November starves to death, and in this year t)elagic sealing was carried on without limitation as to time in Bering Sea. Mr. Williams counted 1,200 grown bulls about the rookeries without cows in 1891, besides hundreds of others with one to four cows each. This observation, with others of similar nature, show the absurdity of tbe contention that any part of the decline of the herd is due to the lack of male life. This fact is further emphasized by the observations of -Mr. Murray, then assistant agent. This report of Mr. Williams deserves especial commendation for its accuracy and sound sense. Joseph B. Crowley, 1893: Page 4I0« The large number of pups drowned on Tolstoi rookery has been several times noted. These are pups killed by a parasitic worm (Uncinaria) breeding in infected sands. These carcasses, washed from the rookeries by the surf, are piled up on the sand beaches beyond Tolstoi and constitute the " windrows " of " drowned" pups so often spoken of. Hamlin, 1894: Page 449. The total of 5,000,000 seals here assumed as on the islands in 1867 is based upon the estimate of Mr. Henry W. Elliott, made in 1872, of 4,700,000. This estimate, we have now reason to believe, was a greatly exaggerated one. The actual number in these early years and throughout the period until 1884 probably did not exceed 2,500,000, including males, females, and young, and was probably nearer 2,000,000. Hamlin, 1894: Page 451. The investigations of 1896 and 1897 show that there is a considerable mortality among young pups prior to the beginning of pelagic sealing. These early deaths are due to a variety of natural and customary causes, such as the parasitic worm Uncinaria, trampling, drowning, etc., which are doubtless as old as the herd itself. A certain proportion of these early dead pups (of which 11,000 were counted in 1896) are necessarily included in the count of 12,000 and estimate of 20,000 dead pups for 1894, which are here ascribed to starvation. At the same 500 APPENDIX. time, however, the counts on which this estimate is based were made about the 13th of September, before pelagic sealing had ceased, whereas the deaths from starvation continue as late as October 15, or nearly a month after pelagic sealing closes, this time being required for pups of that age to starve. The estimate of 20,000, taken at its full value, therefore, must fall below the actual conditions. From the pelagic catch of 31,000 for 1894 and the known preponderance of females which it contained, we may assume that fully 25,000 pups starved to death in that season. Crowley, 1894: Page 460. What has been said in the preceding note (Hamlin, p. 451) applies with equal force here, as these are doubtless the data on which the former statement was made. These counts include pups which died from other causes as well as from starvation, but at the same time they fall short of the actual conditions, because they were made before half the period during which pelagic sealing acts as a cause of death was over. Crowley, 1894: Page 461. The alternative proposition here put forward, namely, " the immediate killing of every seal on the Pribilof Islands," can not be too strongly condemned, even though coming, as it does, from an officer of the Government. There can be no more absurd or unworthy method of settling the fur-seal question proposed than this. Mr. Crowley has feelingly and justly set forth the evil effects of pelagic sealing in the slaughter of " mother seals in young or in milk," leaving their motherless young, "with flattened sides, feeble movements, and languid cries," to die on the rookeries. But his proposition to kill off the seals would necessarily involve all this inhuman waste on a wholesale scale and lodge the odium for it for all time on the Government of the United States. But in addition to all this, the method has not the merit of being capable of attaining the end sought. It would not be possible to totally exterminate the race of animals without keeping up the slaughter for a period of many years, as all the animals are never present at one time nor in one season. A hunted remnant must remain, which if left unmolested, would restock the rookeries and reopen the whole question. Such a settlement of the fur-seal question would be as ineffective as it would be disgraceful. It should be remembered that diplomatic disputes of long standing can not be settled in a day, and the fur-seal herd under protection would be one of the most valuable pieces of property in the possession of any nation. Crowley, 1895: Page 479. The estimate of 27,000 starved pups for 1895 is again vitiated by the inclusion of a certain number of the early dead pups, as already noted in connection with the estimate for 1894. The counts here given are, however, probably more complete and accurate, as they were made after October 1. But this still left a subsequent period in which starvation acted as a cause of death, and the lateness of the count doubtless involved the loss of many of the early ones through the action of the elements and the hunger of the foxes. We can not, of course, say exactly what the death rate from starvation was in 1895, but it was large, and judging from the increased pelagic catch (44,000) in Bering- Sea for this season, we may assume that it was not far from 30,000, APPENDIX. 501 Crowley, 1895: Page 479. The enumeration of breeding seals here given can have only the value of a personal estimate. No details are given as to how it was obtained. Combining the totals for the two islands we have 99,936 breeding cows and 5,552 breeding bulls. The more carefully and accurately worked out census of Mr. F. W. True for the same season gave only 70,423 cows and 4,402 bulls. It is likely that True's estimate falls below the facts, because of the early date at which it was made as well as because he failed to discover that not more than half the cows are present at once. From our better understanding of the conditions of 1896 and 1897 we may therefore infer that the actual number of breeding seals in 1895, present at any one time, lay somewhere between these two estimates. But both of these estimate were made under a misapprehension of the real condition of rookery life, it being assumed that at the period known as the "height of the season" all, or practically all, the animals were present. As we now know, even at the time of their greatest expansion, not more than half of the cows are on the rookeries at any one time, and, therefore, in considering either of these estimates, they must at least be doubled. MDEX. Accounts: Page. Alaska Commercial Company with United States 110, 124,140,149,160,166,171,180,182,196,213,219 Native, transferred to North American Commercial Company hy Alaska Commercial Company 249,257 Native, with North American Commercial Company 258,290,353 North American Commercial Company with United. States 252 Act of July 1, 1870, restrictions as to sealing 32 Act of July 30, 1870, authorizing lease of islands 93 Adams, Thomas E., assistant agent 443,488 Adele (marauder) 174 Adoption of orphans 338 Age, killahle, of seals 29 Agents, appointment of, defect in 338 Agents, assistant, reports of: Adams, Thomas E 443,488 Falconer, Samuel . 22,31,37,48,49,53,71,88,493 Lavender, A. W 239,297,363,428 Lessen, Francis 47,50 Loud, A. P 225 Mclntyre,W.J 1 76,80 Manchester, J. P 227 Moulton, J. H 96,98,110,113,131 Murray, Joseph 236,292,359,364,423,443,498 Nettleton, S. R 264,311 Wardman, George , 162 Ziehach, J.E 465,480 Agents, special, reports of: Ainsworth, Lieut. D. J 416,423 Bryant, Charles 15,21, 23,30, 35, 39,46,50, 61, 70, 72,86, 90,98,492-496 Crowley, J. B 408,443,456,474,499,500,501 Elliott, H.W 51,83,235 Glidden, H. A 154,157,167,497 Goff, C.J 214,228,230,498 McLean, John T 5 Morton, J. M 102,106,113 Otis, H. G 114,116,125,127,128,132,141,152,496,497 Ryan,T.F 183 Stanley-Brown, J 316 Tingle, George R 171,175,186,198,205,206 Williams, W. H 271,287,292,300, 301, 304,307 Aid to natives, Government 307 Ainsworth, Lieut. D. J., acting special agent 416,423 Alaska: Conditions of trade in 7 Fur seal of 449 Land laws 455 Salmon fisheries , 452 Smuggling of liquor 453 Tahle of distances 448 Alaska Commercial Company: Accounts of, with United States 110, 124,140,149,160,166,171,180,182,196,213,219 Agreement with North American Commercial Company 230 Claims under lease as to taking skins 125 Earnings of natives, distribution of 261,262 Labor-saving improvements, introduction of 45 503 504 INDEX. Alaska Commercial Company—Continued. Page. Native accounts transferred to North American Commercial Company 249 Natives, manner of dealing with, satisfactory 172 Production of oil 28,108,118,125 Property of, transferred to North American Commercial Company 231 Seals taken by.., 39,41,102,261,262,365-407 Aleuts: Characteristics of 13 Contract with 1 8 Language of...„ 20 Alfred Adams (marauder) 205 American sealing fleet, catch of 287 Angel Dolly (marauder) 204 Animals, fur-bearing 453 Anna Beck (marauder) 204 Appointment of agents, defect in 338 Articles made of pup skins sold by natives 155 Barnes, W. B., lieutenant, Revenue-Cutter Service 13 Beach masters, description , 65 Black Diamond (marauder) 216 Blue fox skins, catch of 411 Blue foxes: 281 Fur of, valuable Killing of, should be restricted or prohibited 28i,299 Money earned by natives for taking 436 Number taken 411,426,428,458 Starvation of 476 Borealis (marauder) 310, 337 Boys as sealers 157 Breeding rookeries: Description of.. 29,55 Measurements of 188,197,201 Number of seals on 188,201 Brewing (quas) 23,52,60,105,134,146,322,414,431 Bryant, Charles, special agent... 15,21, 23, 30, 35, 39,46,50, 61, 70, 72,86, 90,98,492-496 Burial rites of natives 208 Buynitzky, S. N 18,31,492 Carlisle, J. G., Secretary of the Treasury, instructions 455 Census of islands 43, 73, 97,104, 111, 133,145,164,167,173,187, 200, 210, 228, 253, 256, 281,298,315, 354,357,421,430,441,462,464,481,485 Characteristics of seals 53 Characteristics, physical, of natives 60 City of San Diego (marauder) 188 Civil affairs of natives 67 Civilization, degree of 22 Challenge (marauder) 204,310,337 Church funds, return of, to natives 309,331 Church, Greek: Opposed to English language 280 Regulations of marriage 200,280 Ritual, 309,331,361 Clark, George Archibald 491 Closed season, proposition for, absurd 274 Clothing of natives, skins used for, limited 129 Cod fisheries 10 Consumption, cause of mortality among adults .187 Cows, seal, decrease of 276 Criticism of Charles Bryant's reports 83 Crime, no provision for punishing 24 Crowley, J. B., special agent 408,443,456,474,499 Customs and habits of natives 60,361 Cutters, revenue, services of, needed 89 Cygnet (marauder) 74-76,88 Dawson, George M., letter to special agent 304 Diseases, inflammatory, prevalence of 20 Distances, table of 448 Dolphin (marauder) 204 Drainage and water _ 237,426 Drives for food, first 99 Driving and its effects 319,459,478 **■" INDEX. 505 Page. Drunkenness among natives....- 24, 37,146,414 Earnings, native, division of 43, 68,119,134,146,158,159, 221, 236, 251, 258,261,262,288,289, 351, 352.410,435,471,472, 477,489,490 Elliott, H. W., special agent - 51,83,235 Employment and maintenance of natives 329 English language, Greek Church opposed to 280 Extracts from Charles Brvant's reports 84 Falconer, Samuel, assistant agent 22, 31, 37,48, 49,53,71,88,493 Food: Prices of 321 Staple articles of 21 Statistics of seals taken for 143,153,261-262, 477 Food of seals 59 Foster, Charles, Secretary of the Treasury, instructions 267,282,285,341 Fox killing 335 Foxes, blue; Fur of, valuable 281 Killing of, should be restricted or prohibited 281, 299 Number taken and money earned by natives 426,436,458 Starvation of 476 Fuel supply 307,323,457 Fund, oil 148,158 Funds, so- called church, distribution of, to natives 309,331 Fur-bearing animals, closed season suggested 454 Fur-bearing animals of the Pribilof Islands 453 Fur of blue foxes valuable 281 Fur of seals 57 Fur-seal life, condition of 132,142,167 Fur seal of Alaska 449 Fur-seal skins, receipts and invoices 151 Fur-seal trade, statistics of 5 Furniture for Government houses 475 Gage, L. J., Secretary of the Treasury 1 Geographical situation of St. George * 54 Glidden, H. A., special agent 154,157,164,167,497 Goff, C. J., special agent 214,228,230,498 Government aid to natives 307,443 Government houses: Furniture for ~ 475 Janitors for 310 Government management not responsible for decrease of herds 319 Grace (marauder) 204 Grebnitzky, Nicholas, manager of Russian seal islands 162 Greek Church: Curate, permission to locate on St. George 46 Opposed to English language 280 Regulations of marriage 200,280 Regulations promote immorality 333 Ritual 309,331,361 Grounds, breeding, description 29,55 Guards, marine, to prevent raids 476 Habitations 1 20,26,37,73,119 Habits and customs of natives .'.. 60, 361 Habits of seals. 4,40,54,56,65 Hall, Enos T., assistant agent ". 443 Hamlin, Charles S., Assistant Secretary of the Treasury 448,499 Harems, size of 133 Hauling grounds, description J 66 Herds, cause of decrease 273 Hogg, John 5 Home of seals : 59 Howard, Capt. W. A 3,491 Idleness, enforced, detrimental to natives 159 Improvments, labor-saving, introduction of 45 Improvements on islands 456 Increase or decrease of seal life, question of 142 Influenza epidemic 292 Instructions to assistant agents 30,46, 70 Intoxicating liquors and quas 414 506 INDEX. Page. Janitors for Government houses 310 Jordan, David Starr 491 Jordan, E. C, inspector of customs 11,492 Judge, James, assistant agent 488 Ketchum, Hiram, jr 4, 5, 491, 492 Killer, the 42,59 Killing grounds, new 478 Killing seals, manner of 19,58 Land laws, Alaska 455 Language 60 Language, Russian and English, native children ignorant of 236 Lavender, A. W., assistant agent 239,297,363,428 Law and order, enforcement of 310 Laws and Treasury regulations, publication of, recommended 154 Laws, land, Alaska 455 Lessen, Francis, assistant agent 47, 50 Letter, circular, to Greek orthodox parishioners 291 Liabilities to natives, North American Commercial Company 249 Life, male, excess of 479 Limitation of seal catch 82 Lions, sea 60 Liquor, smuggling of, into Alaska 453 Loleta (marauder) - 115,118 London, principal market for skins 19 Lottie Fairfield (marauder) 205 Lottie L. (marauder) „ 204 Loud, A. P., assistant agent 225 Lutz, C. A., physician 222 Mclntyre, B. G., agent Alaska Commercial Company, deposition 75 Mclntyre, H. H., agent Alaska Commercial Company, poaching schooners... 89 Mclntyre, W. J., assistant agent 76,80 McLean, John T., special agent 5 Maintenance and employment of natives 329 Male life, excess of 479 Manchester, J. P., assistant agent 227 Manner of taking and killing seals 19,58 Manufacture of oil 118,125 Marauders: Boarding of j 188 Catch of 176 Cause of late landing of seals on rookeries 207 Evidences of raids by 155,184 Protection of rookeries from 3 Reportson 173,188 Seizure of 174,189,203-206, 216, 310 Marauding vessels. (See Vessels, marauding.) Marine guards to prevent raids 476 Market for skins: Depression in 164 Principal Marriages, regulations of Greek Church Mary Ellen (marauder) ■. Mattie (iharauder) Measurements of rookeries 188,197, 201 Meat, preservation of 322,359 Melovidov, S., teacher 465 Miller, John F., letter to Secretary of the Treasury 9 Mode of issuing provisions 16 Mode of taking and killing seals 19, 58 Modus vivendi, proclamation of 282 Monopoly, desire to create .* 5 Mortality among young seals 66 Mortality, cause of, among adults 187 Morton, J. M., special agent 102,106,113 Moulton, J. H., assistant agent 96,98,110,113,131 Murray, Joseph, assistant agent 236,292, 359,364, 423,443,498 Natives 60,119 Account with United States 429 Accounts with North American Commercial Company 258,290,353 19 200 205 216 INDEX. 507 Natives—Continued. Page. Alarm of, at diminution of herds 239 Articles made by, sold to traders 155,229 Burial rites of 208 Cause of mortality among adults 187 Change in manner of payment suggested - 199 Civil affairs of 67 Clothing of, use of skins for, limited 129 Earnings of, distribution 43,68,119,134,146, 158, 159, 221, 251, 258,261, 262, 288,289, 351,352,410,435,471,477,489,490 Drunkenness 24 Easy to control 265 Enforced idleness detrimental to 159 Expenditures for support of 474 Gambling 159 Government aid to 307,443 Habitations 1 20,26,37,73,119 Habits, customs, etc 60,361 Harsh treatment of, by assistant agent 79 Improvement in conditions of 20 Language 60 Maintenance and employment of 329 Members of Greek Church 60 Occupations of 21 Physical characteristics 60 Physical condition, improvement in 456 Protest against methods of assistant agent 69 Protest against restriction of sealing 15 Provisions for 16 Return of church funds to 331 Securing money from, by false pretenses 280,292 Stoves for 99 Strike of 147 Subsistence of 321 Transfer of moneys of, to North American Commercial Company 231 Nettleton, Mrs. S. R., teacher 313 Nettleton, S. R., assistant agent 264, 311 Neumann, Rudolph, agent Alaska Commercial Company, permission to dispose of food skins requested 244 North American Commercial Company: Account of natives transferred to 249 Accounts with natives 258,290,353 Accounts with United States 252 Agreement with Alaska Commercial Company 230 Compensation to natives 320 Compliance with requirements of lease 431 Liabilities to natives 249 Property of Alaska Commercial Company transferred to 231 Seizure of flag t I 418,423 Widows and orphans supported by 433 Noyes, L. A., physician T 313,437 Ocean Spray (marauder) 89 Officers, constant supervision of, demanded 127 Oil: Fund 148,158 Manufacture of 28,108,118,125 Waste of 51 Orphans, adoption of 338 Orphans and widows supported by North American Commercial Company 433 Orphans at Unalaska school 427, 464,484 Orphans, widows, and others to be furnished food and clothing 434 Otis, H. G., special agent 114,116,125,127,128,132,141,152,496,497 Otter Island: Guard over 144 Location 74,93 Not included in lease 94 Topography 74,93 Under care of Treasury agent 152 Otter, sea: Prices of skins ; 8,12,453 Scarcity of 454 508 INDEX. Oustigoff, Zecar, deposition i Overdriving, results of Paris regulations do not protect seals Patrol, period of, by revenue cutters Pelagic catch: 1868-1894 1886-1894 Pelagic sealing: Cause of diminution of herds Results of Physical characteristics of natives Physical condition of natives, improvement in. Pirates Page. 78 478 461 337 450 461 74,234,273,295, 297,319,460 451,479 60 456 173 486 20 304 359 Pond, G. P., physician Population, classification of Powell, George B., letter to special agent Preservation of meat 322, Pribilof Islands. (See also St. George Island; St. Paul Island): Catch of seals 114 Condition of rookeries 172 Condition of seals on 107,167,448 Fur-bearing animals on 453 Improvements on 456 Meteorological 127 Natives 51,60,119 Oil production 28 Quas brewing 52 Receipts and invoices of skins 151 Rookeries, dead pups on 460 Schools 457 Sea otter, scarcity of 454 Seal oil, waste of 51 Seals taken for all purposes (1870-1894) 449 Vital statistics 155,158,173,281 Prices: Food 321 Pup skins - 129 Sea-otter skins 8,12,453 Proclamation, modus vivendi 282 Protest against liability to support natives 434 Protest by G. R. Tingle against prohibition of sealing 259 Protest of natives against methods of assistant agent 69 Protest of natives against restriction of sealing 15 Provisions, mode of issuing 16 Pups: Articles manufactured from skins of, sold by natives 155 Characteristics 56 Dead, number counted 297,460, 479,480,481 Skins of, not commercially valuable .' 128 Skins, prices of 129 Starving of 275 Useless slaughter of 229 Weight of, when horn 56 Quas brewing 23,52,60,105,134,146,322,414,431 Question of increase or decrease of seal life 142 Quota. (See shipping receipts.) Raids upon islands 130,310,336 Raymond, Capt. C. W., United States Engineers 12 Recall of Treasury agents 90 Receipts, shipping. (See Shipping receipts.) Recommendation for government of islands 339 Regulations: Absence of, an embarrassment 317 Greek Church, promote iminorality 333 . Marriage 200,280 Paris, do not protect seals 461 Reports, Bryant's, criticism of 83 Repressive measures against quas brewing 134 INDEX. 509 Revenue cutters: Page. More needed to guard islands 89,204 Period of patrol by 337 Ritual, Russian Church, translation of 309, 331, 361 Rookeries: Arrivals of seals on.. 314 Cause of late landing of seals on : 207 Condition of 97,172,186,318,408 Dead pups on 1 297,460,479,480,481 Description of 29,55 Diminution of seals on 235 Guarding of 335,425,461 Invasion of 75,76 Measurements of 188,197,201 Misapprehension as to names of 365 Number of seals on 201 Permanent character of 42 Protection of, from marauders 3 Russian Church ritual 309, 331, 361 Ryan, T. F., special agent 183 Sailors, wrecked 306 St. George Island. (See also Pribilof Islands): Account of United States with natives 429 Affairs on 80,88,96 Blue foxes, number taken 428 Census.. 97 111 119 | Wfi "l45," 164," t|j '^f^'r^^^^^^^^^^^^^M 441,464,485 Civilization, degree of 22 Destruction of seals 96 Earnings, distribution of, to natives 134, 146,159,221,236, 258, 262,289, 352, 410, 436, 471,478,490 Expenditures for support of natives 474 Food, seals taken for 1 246,262 Foxes taken 436,458 Fuel supply 299,311,413 Geographical situation 54 Greek Church, permission to locate a curate on 46 Habitations 20,26,119 Health of natives 1 311 Marauders : 155,184 Meteorological 23,31,54,81 Native accounts transferred to North American Commercial Company 257 Native earnings, distribution of, by Alaska Commercial Company (1870-1889) 262 Natives, condition of Ill Natives, conduct of j 312,431 Natives, health of 311 Quas brewing 431 Rookeries, condition of 97, 111 Rookeries, names of ; 38 Sanitary conditions 327 Sanitary system, need of 237 School statistics 226, 311,430 Sealing seasons, beginnings of 248 Seals taken by Alaska Commercial Company 262 Seals taken on 8, 22,37,48, 71,110,123,131,139,161,170,181, 182, 194, 212, 219, 243,246,261,262, 285,312, 349,350,365-407,432,470,488 Skins shipped from 108,117,132 Subsistence of natives 311 Topography 54 Vital statistics 23,80,97,119,173,298,437,465 Water supply 237 Widows, orphans, and indigents 312 St. Paul Island. (See also Pribilof Islands): Census 43,73, 104, 119, 133, 145, 164,167,173,187,200,210,228,253,281,354,421,462,481 Earnings, distribution of, to natives 43, 50, 92, 104, 134, 146, 158, 221, 236, 251, 261, 288, 351,410,435,472,477,489 Foxes, number kiHed on 426,458 Fuel supply 293,413,423 510 INDEX. St. Paul Island—Continued. Page. Government 26 Habitations 20/26,119 Industrial school - 294,362 Influenza, epidemic of 292 Marriages » 362 Meteorological -- 72,106,127,208,227,248 Native accounts transferred to North American Commercial Company 249 Natives easy to control 265 Natives^ expenditures for support of _ 474 Natives, physical and moral condition of 119 Pups killed for food • 154 Quas brewing, abatement of 105 Rookeries, breeding 172,186,188 Rookeries, guarding of 425 Sanitary conditions _ 327 School 21,24,44,49,100,104,227,412,465 Seal grounds, deplorable condition of 265 Sealing seasons, beginnings of 248 Seals, dead, count of 481 Seals, decrease of _ 360, 424 Seals taken by Alaska Commercial Company 261 Seals taken on 62,121,137,143, 170, 177, 191, 210, 217, 241,246, 261, 265,284, 347,359,365-407, 432,468,487 Sexes, difference in number of 362 Skins shipped from 62,108,117,132 Vital statistics of 21,43,119,145,173, 222,292,422, 437,486 Watchhouses 361 Water and drainage 327,426 Weights of skins 417,419 Widows and orphans supported by lessees 434 Widows, orphans, and others furnished with food and clothing by lessees. 434 Salmon fisheries of Alaska 452 San Diego (marauder) 87, 89 Sanitary conditions _ 327 Sanitary system, need of 237 Schools 24,49,147,309,334,457 Industrial 294, 362 Lack of interest in, by parents - 101 Little progress made by native children 231 Unalaska, orphans at 427, 464 Schooners, poaching 89, 115 Sea lions 60 Sea otter: Prices of skins 12, 453 Scarcity of 454 Seal catch, limitation of 82 Seal catch, pelagic: 1868-1894 450 1886-1894 461 Seal Islands. (See also Pribilof Islands): Absolute control hy Government recommended 240 Act of July 30,1870, authorizing lease of 93 Affairs on 13,51 Census 438 Protection of 152 Vessels touching at , 135 Seal life: Authority on 235 Condition of 132,142,167 Question of increase or decrease 120 Sealers: Arrangement of, in classes 43 Boys as 157 Government aid for 443 Sealing: Change in method of 32 Operations 132 Pelagic, cause of diminution of seals 74,234,273,295,297,319,460 Pelagic, results of 451,479 INDEX. 511 Sealing—Continued. Page. 287 286 32 Protests against restriction and prohibition of 15,259 Seasons of, beginnings £ 248 Sealing fleet, catch of: American Victoria Seals: Act of July 1,1870, restricting killing of Arrival of, on rookeries 314 Catch by marauders 176 Characteristics of - 53 Commercial extermination of, near at hand 451 Dead, count of 297,460,479,480,481 Decrease of 29,276,424 Deficiency in certain classes, causes of 36 Departure of, from islands 59 Destruction of 205 Diminution of, by pelagic fishing 74,234,273,295,297,319,460 Diminution of, on rookeries 235 Excess of male life Food of Fur of Government management not responsible for decrease of Habits of 4, 40, 54, 56,65 Home of 59* Killable age of 29 479 59 57 319 Killing, indiscriminate. Large proportion killed at sea lost 274 Mode of taking and killing 19,58 Number accepted by lessees _ „.. 248 Number taken at sea S 450 Number taken by Alaska Commercial Company 261,262, 365-407 Number taken by pelagic sealers 461 Number taken for all purposes 365-407,449 Number taken for all purposes by Alaska Commercial Company 365-407 Number taken on islands (1870-1889) 262 Paris regulations do not protect 461 Pelagic sealing cause of diminution of 74, 234,273,295,297,319,460 Preservation of meat of 322,359 Question of increase or decrease in herds , 120 Rapid diminution of 232 Request to take specimens 241 Rule governing taking of 64 Size of 55 Specimens taken 476 • System of legal protection admirable 129 Time of arrival on islands 5 Weight of 55,57 Young, death of, great, when absent from islands 66 Season, closed, proposition for, absurd 274 Season, stagey, duration of 143 Seasons, sealing, beginnings of 248 Sexes, difference in number of 362 Sierra (marauder) 188 Situation, geographical, of islands 54 Size of harems « 133 Shipping receipts 33,34, 47,52, 61, 82, 95, 98,112,116,123, 139, 150, 156, 166, 169,175,190,206,214,225,258,286, 349, 364,442,471,488 Skins: Fox, arrangement for taking 335 Market for, depression in 164 Principal market for 19 Pup, articles manufactured from, sold by natives 155 Pup, not commercially valuable 128 Receipts and invoices of, from customs returns 151 Sea otter, prices 8,12,453 Stagey, description „ 35 Tax on 173 Use of, for clothing, limited 129 Smithsonian Institution, collection of specimens for 232 512 INDEX. Page. Smuggling of liquor 453 Spaulding, 0. L., Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, instructions 287, 305,341 Specimens taken 476 Stagey rejected skins 415 Stagey season, duration of 143 Stagey skins, description of - 35 Stanley-Brown, J., special agent _ 316 Starvation of pups 275 Statistics of seals taken for all purposes during lease of Alaska Commercial Company 365-407 Statistics of seals taken for food 261,262 Stoves, coal, for natives 99 Subsistence of natives 321 Tax on skins 173 Taylor, Thomas, conditions of trade in Alaska 7 Tichenor, George C, Assistant Secretary of the Treasury, instructions 243 Tingle, George R., special agent 171,175,186,198,205,206,497 Tingle, George R., superintendent North American Commercial Company: Coal supply under lease with United States 442 Letter to special agent 245,325 Proposition to take food skins to fill quota 244 Protest against company's liability to support natives 434 Protest against prohibition of sealing 259 Request to take specimen seals 241 Sanitary improvements on islands 358 Trade, statistics of 5 Treasury agent, Otter Island under care of 152 Treasury agents, recall of \ 90 Treasury agents. (See Agents, assistant; Agents, special.) Treasury regulations, absence of, an embarrassment 317 Treasury regulations aud laws, publication of, recommended 154 Treasury, Secretary of 1,259,267,282,285,341,455 Tyones, functions of 73 Unalaska: Location of 21 Orphans at school at 427,464,484 United States: Accounts of Alaska Commercial Company with 110, 124,140,149,160,166,171,180,182,196,213,219 Accounts of North American Commercial Company with 252 Valdimir, Bishop, questionable practices of 280,292 Vanderbilt (marauder) 188 Vessels, marauding 144,414 Adele 174 Alfred Adams 205 Angel Dolly 203,206 Anna Beck 204 Black Diamond 216 Borealis 310,337 Challenge 204,310,337 City of San Diego 188 Cygnet 1 74,88 Dolphin 204 Grace 204 Loleta 118 Lottie Fairfield 205 Lottie L 204 Mary Ellen 205 Mattie 216 Ocean Spray 89 SanDiego 87,89 Sierra 188 Vanderbilt 188 W. P. Sawyer 204 Vessels touching at seal islands 135 Victoria sealing fleet, catch of 286 Vital statistics 21,23,43, 80, 97,145,173,222, 292,298, 422, 437,465,486 Voss, Otto, physician 437 Wardman, G., assistant agent , 162,497 INDEX. 513 Page. Water and drainage 237 426 Weight of pups when born '.'.'.., ' 56 Weight of seals ""* ] 55 cy Widows and orphans, list of _. !!!.!!.. .]. 324 326 Widows and orphans supported by lessees '433 Widows, orphans, and indigents, supplies furnished to *'.".'.'. 1 [ I'Ji'". * * ] 325 Widows, orphans, and others to be furnished food and clothing hy lessees.... 434 Wike, Scott, Acting Secretary of the Treasury ] { 447 Williams, W. H., special agent 271,287,292, 300,301,304 499 Wilson, Joseph, inspector of customs 9 iq Windom* William, Secretary of the Treasury, instructions *"..""..*"!* 259 W. P. Sawyer (marauder) 204 Wrecked sailors qno Ziebach, J. E., assistant agent [ .....[ '. * 465 480 H Doc. 92 33 Photograph of St. Paul Village, showing Relation of Village to Well. Photograph of St. George Village, showing Relation of Lake to Village.
Includes index. Other Copies: http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/5737058
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Original Format: University of British Columbia. Library. Woodward Library. SH361 .U518 1898
Bering Sea controversy
Sealing--Alaska
Salmon fisheries--Alaska
Alaska--Economic conditions
Seal and salmon fisheries and general resources of Alaska. In four volumes. Volume I
Text