http://www.kshs.org/p/kansas-history-autumn-1978/15182
p198
Thursday, May 19, 1864 -- Went on a scout to Schullyville, crossed Poto [Poteau] Creek at a ford which the rebels had obstructed by falling large trees on the opposite landing. The village was deserted, and partially burned. U.S. Troops had been stationed there, built a stockade. We did not see a single human being. Schullyville is in the Choctaw Nation.
...
Tuesday, May 24, 1864 -- Crossed the Poteau Creek and herded horses in the bottom, became coverd with wood ticks. I never knew that there could be so many. Saw cane on its native ridges, small in growth yet nevertheless cane.
...
Thursday May 26, 1864 -- Watered horses in Poteau Creek and while there heard marvelous stories about the disappearance of men, mysteriously, whilst bathing in its waters. Negro[e}s say that large fishes carry them away or kill them. Negro saw a Gar twelve feet long.