Accusations of Corruption in the Indian Department
Local outrage flares over alleged embezzlement of government funds intended for the Indian Department.
Kendall says that 'the good sense of the people will regulate the value of legal tender notes, without any of Dr. Henry's dictation or ignorant disquisitions.' It appears that he is fearful that they will be raised to par, by the good sense of the people, and thus put an end to that 'little speculation' which he is said to have in view. We would think it a heinous offense for him to speculate at the expense of the Government, if he did it with his own money, but when it comes to using Government funds for that purpose the crime is increased ten-fold. We think it is about time that the money belonging to the Indian Department was turned over to Superintendent Hale. Instead of this, it is said that about $30,000 was packed across the country to Portland a few days ago, as a special deposit for a banking fund at that place.
“We would think it a heinous offense for him to speculate at the expense of the Government, if he did it with his own money, but when it comes to using Government funds for that purpose the crime is increased ten-fold.”
This editorial highlights the long history of distrust regarding federal financial management in Washington Territory, specifically concerning funds allocated for Indigenous affairs. Financial oversight and accountability remain central topics in Washington's civic and state-tribal relations today.
From readers
No comments yet. If you know something about this story — a correction, a family memory, a source — it belongs here.