To James Madison from George Washington Sevier, 23 October 1815
From George Washington Sevier
Knoxville Tenne. Oct. 23d. 1815
Sir
I have been informed that Col Hawkins, the present Agent for the Creek Indians, lies very low (probably dead) also that Should he recover he intends resigning his office as Agent.1 I have therefore thought it adviseable to apply immediately to you for the appointment; presuming that, having devoted the prime of my life to the Service of my Country, and having been raised on the frontiers near the Indians, and Consequent Knowledge of Indians and their affairs, Will be Some recommendation. I have not thought it necessary to procure any recommendations, as I am already well Known to the war department, and, I have understood, that the Administration is disposed to give a preference to the disbanded officers. I am induced to believe that Several of the Members of Congress from this State, will support my application. I hope Sir, that, you will pardon the liberty, I have taken in addressing you on this Subject. I am Sir, Very Respectfully Your mst. Obt. Hble. Servt.
G.W. Sevier2
Late Col. 1st. Rifle
RC (DNA: RG 94, Letters Received, filed under “Sevier”). Docketed as received in the War Department in November 1815.
1. Benjamin Hawkins died at the Creek Agency on 6 June 1816. He was not replaced until President James Monroe nominated David B. Mitchell of Georgia to the vacancy in April 1818 (Daily National Intelligencer, 25 June 1816; 3:139).
2. George Washington Sevier entered the army as an ensign in 1804. He rose to the rank of colonel of the Regiment of Riflemen in 1814 and was discharged in June 1815 ( 1:874).