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Virginia Argus
Richmond, Virginia
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In September 1807, Arthur Patton testified in Mississippi Territory about a June conversation in Tennessee with Herman Blennerhassett, who disclosed Aaron Burr's plot to separate the western states, establish a new government, and blamed Gen. Wilkinson's betrayal for its failure, vowing to resume.
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Before me, one of the United States Judges, for the said Territory, personally appeared at the town of Wakefield, in the said county, on the 6th day of September, 1807, Arthur Patton, who declared on oath, duly administered by me, that as he was travelling in the state of Tennessee, about the 24th of June last, he fell into company with a gentleman, who, coming to his camp, after some enquiries, observed to the said Patton in a laughing way, that he was one of Burr's men; that his name was Herman Blennerhassett, and that he was one of Burr's chief council: that he travelled several days with the said Blennerhassett; in the course of which he had several conversations with him about Burr's plans; that he informed him that he had several boats built for the expedition; that gen. Wilkinson was a damned rascal; that if it had not been for him the expedition would have gone on; that he (Wilkinson) knew as much of it as any of them, and then proved traitor. The said Patton asked him if it was over; he replied by no means; that they could not hurt Burr, and that when he was clear they would go on with it again.
The said Patton enquired what they could say in order to induce people to join them? Blennerhassett replied, that they assured them it was an honorable and profitable expedition. The said Patton asked Blennerhassett how it could be so? Blennerhassett replied, by asking whether if they could bring about a separation of the Union, and establish a new government in the western country; that would not be an honorable and profitable expedition? The said Patton then asked, Is that, then was their object? Blennerhassett replied, that if that had been carried into effect, it would have been a damned sight better for the western countries.
Patton asked him what they could expect to do with such a handful of men? Blennerhassett replied, that they should have had plenty, but their friends had deceived them.
There was in company with them, a Mr. Jonathan Pharr, who resides near this deponent, on the Chickasawhay, and who took part in the conversation above alluded to,
ARTHUR PATTON.
Sworn and subscribed before me, on the day and year first above written.
HARRY TOULMIN
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Location
Mississippi Territory, Washington County; Town Of Wakefield; State Of Tennessee
Event Date
6th Day Of September, 1807; About The 24th Of June Last
Story Details
Arthur Patton's sworn testimony describes his encounter with Herman Blennerhassett in Tennessee, where Blennerhassett revealed details of Aaron Burr's expedition plans to separate the Union and establish a new government in the western country, blaming Gen. Wilkinson for betrayal and stating the plot would continue.