uilt in Indian Territory.Indians did most of the early trapping, trading furs and hides for merchandise. The American, French, and Scots trappers did not work for trade items but rather for cash. With the Indian removal came restrictions on who could do business in the territory. The principal trappers became the newly removed "Civilized " tribes. In the removal treaties, relocated families received traps along with their allotted rations, thus encouraging them in the trapping business. As the trappers changed so did the goods traded.In the beginning traders dealt in vermillion, silver, guns, ammunition, trade blankets, knives, beads, awls, some cloth, some horse tack, some clothing, copper kettles, sugar, and mirrors. These items were traded for various furs. Furs sent to eastern markets would be used for various fashions, for example; beaver would be used in making hats for men and women. Raccoon fur became coats, trimmings, women’s' hand warmers, and military Shakos. Deer hides became gloves and pants. The rates of exchange varied according to the markets back east as well as Europe. An example of what the trade rates might be is found in A.P. Chouteau’s records. A trade gun that cost Chouteau $12 would bring 16 beaver hides in trade. This of course was always subject to change, and change it did.As the relocated five tribes settled the region, towns were built and the fur trade posts began to accept annuities for mercantile goods. "There are 2 traders located within a half mile of Ft.Towson, both of them are respectable men, and adhere most rigidly to the laws of the US. The annuities are paid near these trading houses, and the Indians remain about us for several days, after they get their money, for the purpose of trading." Lt.Col. J H Vose ,3rd Inf.The trading posts gradually began to look like the general stores in the east. Fur trade would continue at these posts but the clientele of the posts now included homesteade...
