How John Canfield Outwitted Federal Agents in the Timber War

The Tale of John Canfield and the Timber War in Manistee

Manistee, a town rich in history, has long been associated with its pioneering lumbermen. These early settlers carved out their lives in the dense forests, transforming raw timber into valuable resources that fueled the growth of the region. While many of their stories remain untold, there are still some legendary tales passed down through generations. One such story revolves around John Canfield, one of the wealthiest lumbermen in the area, and his dramatic clash with federal agents.

A Battle of Wits and Will

The conflict began in the spring of 1853 when U.S. Land Agent Willard and U.S. Marshal Durkee arrived in Manistee. They seized and branded logs in the booms, lumber on the docks, and closed up the mills, except for the Canfield mill. The reason given was that the logs had been cut from government land. However, John Canfield refused to comply. He insisted that the logs were harvested from his own property and that the government had no right to interfere without due process.

Canfield's defiance led to a tense standoff. When the officers ordered the workers to stop, they did so, but Canfield quickly instructed them to resume work. This bold move made it clear that the workers would obey Canfield over the federal agents. Recognizing the potential for conflict, the officers retreated to Stillman Stubb’s Hotel across the river. In response, local workers amused themselves by throwing fireballs made of turpentine-soaked wicking into the hotel rooms.

Escalation and Escape

The situation escalated further when the U.S. cutter Michigan arrived to assist the officers. After this, Durkee and Willard managed to arrest several individuals, including Rasmus Potter, John Dixon, Owen Finan, Jim Sively, and Harry Wheeler. They were particularly eager to capture Canfield, but he consistently evaded capture.

One notable incident involved Dr. McFall, a self-proclaimed expert from Grand Rapids, who claimed he could catch Canfield. On a Sunday morning, John Canfield, Holden Green, and Mr. Udell were in the office at the back of the store. Udell locked the door as he left, only to meet Dr. McFall on the way. After receiving tobacco, Udell casually mentioned that Canfield was not in the building. McFall then asked to search the house, which Udell allowed without hesitation.

Inside the office, McFall found Canfield lying on the bed wearing dark pants and a red overshirt, reading a book. Despite the obvious presence of Canfield, McFall searched the closet and under the bed before leaving. Upon returning, he described his search and the “cool young man” on the bed, which led to Durkee’s rage. “That was John Canfield,” he exclaimed.

A Clever Escape

Another time, Canfield was arrested and taken to the river to be brought over to Stubb’s Hotel. As the officers transported him, the workers at the mills gathered around, pushing and crowding until Canfield was separated from his captors. The crowd created a barrier that prevented the officers from using their hands, though the encounter remained peaceful.

Later that night, Canfield slipped out of his handcuffs while the officers were asleep. He left behind his clothes as a souvenir and returned to Manistee in just a shirt, drawers, and stockings. At Cooper’s shingle camp, he obtained new clothing and reappeared among his friends the next day, calm and smiling.

The End of the Timber War

This marked the end of the timber war in Manistee. However, Canfield soon launched another battle in the courts against lumber agent Willard. This legal contest cost him at least $8,000, but he ultimately emerged victorious. The old citizens who played a role in these events included Joseph Baur, C. M. Danforth, Jim Thompson, Gird Graves, and H. S. Udell. Harry Wheeler was briefly imprisoned for obstructing the officers, and Potter was also punished for cutting timber on the north side of the river.

These stories highlight the resilience and determination of Manistee’s pioneer lumbermen, whose legacy continues to inspire those who call the region home.