ABSTRACT
It was upon General David Hunter, Commander of the Western Department of the Army of the United States of America, that the main responsibility for the refugees from the Indian Territory fell. As they were fleeing north, the destitute renegades fell in with a group of buffalo hunters from the Sac and Fox Nations near Osage County, Kansas. After hearing of their tragic experience, these friendly relations sent word ahead of their party to federal officials. William G.Coffin, Federal Southern Superintendent, appealed to General Hunter to send federal officers and assistance to aid the distressed refugees.2 In addition, Coffin ordered every federal agent in his charge to assemble at Fort Roe, Kansas to assist the refugees.3
