Little Cedar Hollow

Tuesday, December 8th, 1818

Having obtained the necessary information, we determined this morning to continue our journey to Sugar-Loaf Prairie, for which we had made preparation, by turning a couple of small bags into knapsacks, and putting in a blanket, and such articles of necessity as could be conveniently carried. On offering to pay our entertainer for victuals and lodging, he refused to take anything, and perceiving we had no meat to take with us, took me to his smoke-house, and drawing his knife, put it into my hand, then opened the door, and told me to go in and cut what I wanted. I did so. It was well filled with dried buffaloe's beef, and bear's meat, both smoaked and fresh. At nine o'clock in the morning we bid our generous host adieu, crossed the river at the ford, and followed up the horse-path leading to Sugar-Loaf Prairie, on the east bank of the river. This path frequently became so blind, that we were unable to keep it, and spent some time in frequent searches for the tracks of horses. Relieved of the tiresome task of leading a pack-horse we travelled on with accelerated speed, until approaching darkness warned us that it was time to encamp. Deer and Turkey have been common. The weather continues mild. Distance sixteen miles. Course west-north-west.

-Henry Schoolcraft