Indians (Population)

States one of his most serious obligations reduction or extinction Seris, neighboring Tiburones, Carrizos, Salineros, who threaten new discoveries Rio Gila, Rio Colorado, communications with California. Criticizes Former gov. Vildosola for attending to hacienda rather than campaigning against Indians. Discusses Parilla expedition, composed of army 720 soldiers, citizens, citizens, Indian auxiliaries, which captured 252 Indians, including 80 archers, then explored Tiburon Island, seizing another 28 Indians. Tiburon described as 50 leagues sterility, unable to support mission. Notes that although P. Provincial (Escobar?) Claims Seris, Tiburones, Salineros number 3000, expeditions reveals population C. 1000. States entire Seri nation can't be expurgated because of rough nature terrain, but can be reduced to powerless residue (reliquia), allowing presidio to be moved to Apache frontier. Expedition cost 12,000 pesos. (T. Sheridan) (1976)

Notes presence 60 known Indian nations Nueva Vizcaya, many in rebellion. Describes presidial system, including Gallo, Cuename, Conchos, Janos, with 50 soldiers each; Zerrogordo (Cerro Gordo) with 23; Santa Catalina with 9; Sinaloa with 44; compania de Compana with 30. States Indian depredations, peste general nearly depopulated province. Advocates offensive war against Indians during tiempo de aguas when cavalry able to travel easily, defensive action during el de secas. Discusses proposal to send 50 soldiers from various presidios to Sonora and states such reduction manpower would be grave mistake for those garrisons. Suggests instead 50 new soldiers to complement 40 custillo able to field. States more than 300 Indians killed 8 albazoa (day break attacks), more than 400 families reduced junta de los Rios; 130 families reduced to Pueblo San Francisco next to Conchos presidio. Despite temporary peace, however, would be disastrous to reduce number soldiers. Notes necessity paying soldiers promptly. Discusses presidial salaries. Mentions need for Indian auxiliaries, who have to be paid/fed; need to provide reduced, conquered Indians with seed rations. Despite widespread Indian rebellions, Sonora judged most endangered area. (T. Sheridan) (1976)