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Show DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR UNITED STATES INDIAN SERVICE Southern Ute Agency, Ignacio, Colorado. Drafted Indians. 3EHeK- YS 2/ 23/ 18 1086 February 23, 1918, The Honorable, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Commissioner: Information is requested regarding the status of the Southern Ute Indians and similar tribes in reference to the draft service of the army. At this Agency all young men between the required ages have registered end each one has filled out his questionaire and returned it to the local board. Some have been notified to appear before the local board for examination February 28th. I have been informed that the War Department has ruled that Indians are not subject to the draft but may be accepted as volunteers. I have been unable, however, to obtain any authentic information on this point. Among the Southern Utes there are no citizens although they have been classed as citizen Indians with certain restrictions. If any definite rules have been made which applies to these Indians I will appreciate early information regarding it. In this matter of draft I wish to give our country every assistance due from the Indian and I also wish to protect the Indians right. If the Indians here are not legally subjected to the draft, notify me by wire that I may take necessary steps on or before February 28th. Very respectfully, E.E. McKean Superintendent |
