The American Annual Cyclopaedia and Register of Important Events of the Year, 1861-1865, vols. 1-5. New York: Appleton & Co., 1868.

Union States in 1861, Part 5: Ohio through Wisconsin

OHIO. One of the Western States, formed out of the northwestern territory ceded by Virginia, was admitted to the Union in 1802, is bounded on the north by Michigan and Lake Erie, on the east by Pennsylvania and Virginia, south by Virginia and Kentucky, from which it is separated by the Ohio River, and west by Indiana. It is about two hundred miles in length from north to south, and one hundred and ninety-five in extreme width from east to west The population in 1860 was, 2,303,374 whites, and 36,225 free colored. The ratio of increase during the previous ten years had been 17.82 white and 43.30 colored. The vote for President in 1860 was for Lincoln 231,610; Douglas, 187,232; Breckinridge 11,405; Bell 12,194. The Governor of the State is elected for two years. The Senate consists of thirty-five members, and the House of one hundred, each elected for two years. The Legislature meets biennially, at Columbus, 1862,1864, &c, on the first Monday of January. The composition of the last Legislature was: Senate, 25 Republicans, 10 Democrats; House, 58 Republicans, 46 Democrats, 1 Independent. The United States Senators are Benjamin Wade, a native of Massachusetts, whose term expires March 4, 1863, and John Sherman, elected in place of Mr. Chase, who became Secretary of the Treasury. Mr. Sherman's term expires March 4, 1807.

Governor Tod succeeded Governor Dennison, whose term expired January 1862. The Legislature met on the first Monday of January 1861, amidst the generally pervading excitement growing out of the state of the Union. The Message of Governor Dennison explained, at some length, the course he had pursued in refusing to surrender, on the requisition of the Governors of Kentucky and Tennessee, the persons accused of aiding the escape of fugitive slaves. He denied the right of secession as a general principle, and affirmed the loyalty of Ohio to the Union. He suggested the repeal of the obnoxious features of the fugitive slave law, and that the repeal of any personal liberty bills subversive of the fugitive law would thus bo secured; but, at the same time, he said "the Southern States should repeal their laws in contravention of the constitutional rights of citizens of free States, who cannot be satisfied with less, and who will insist upon their constitutional rights in every State and Territory of this Confederacy. These they cheerfully accord to citizens of the Southern States. Determined to do no wrong, they will not contentedly submit to any wrong. They demand the employment of all the constitutional powers of the Federal Government to maintain and preserve the Union."

The allusion to the "constitutional rights of citizens of free States" meant that the South should recognize "free blacks" as citizens of the United States, although, according to the Constitution, as expounded by the Supreme Court, and the practice of the Government since its formation, colored persons are not citizens of the United States. The State of Ohio itself had uniformly acted on the same principle. At the formation of the State Government, laws were enacted forbidding blacks to come into the State, and imposing fines and penalties upon their introduction. These laws were only repealed in 1849. Indiana and Illinois still have such laws, and in 1854 the U. S. Court decided that blacks are not citizens of the United States. The Ohio laws do not now recognize them as citizens, since the militia and other laws passed at the last session, all apply to white males only.

The Legislature, on January 12, 1861, passed a series of joint resolutions, of which the following is a synopsis:

1st. The people of Ohio believe that the preservation of this Government is essential to the peace, prosperity, and safety of the American people.

2d. The General Government cannot permit the secession of any State without violating the bond and compact of Union.

3rd. The power of the National Government must be maintained, and the laws of Congress enforced in the States and Territories, until their repeal by Congress, or they are adjudged to be unconstitutional by the proper tribunal. The attempts by State authority to nullify the Constitution and laws of Congress, or resist their execution, are destructive of the wisest government in the world.

4th. The people of Ohio are opposed to meddling with the internal affairs of other States.

5th. The people of Ohio will fulfil in good faith all their obligations under the Constitution of the United States, according to their spirit.

6th. Certain offensive laws in some of the States are rendered inefficient by the Constitution and laws of the Federal Government, which guarantee to the citizens of each State the privileges and immunities of the several States. The several state Governments should repeal these offensive laws, and thus restore confidence between the States.

7th. All Union men condemn the secession ordinances. 8th. The power and resources of Ohio are pledged to the maintenance of the civil authority, Constitution, and laws of the General Government.

8th. Copies of these resolutions shall be furnished to the Senators and Representatives of both Houses of Congress.

On the 14th the Legislature passed the following:

Resolved, That we hail with joy the firm, dignified, and patriotic Message of the President, and pledge the entire power and resources of the State for a strict maintenance of the Constitution and laws by the General Government, by whomsoever administered.

On March 21st a resolution, requesting Congress to call a National Convention, passed both Houses of the Legislature.

On April 10th about 30 boxes of arms and accoutrements of various kinds, in transit to Page 557 Fort Smith, Arkansas, and re-shipped at Cincinnati, attracted the notice of the people. A crowd assembled, and insisted on preventing their shipment. For the safety of the arms the Mayor took possession of them. They were not seized, but were held to prevent seizure, and perhaps destruction.

On April 12, an act to enroll the militia of the State became a law. The following is a synopsis:

1st. Assessors to prepare lists of all persons subject to military duty, and file the lists with the auditor, who shall furnish a copy to the adjutant-general, and an abstract shall by him be forwarded annually to the War Department at Washington before January 1 in each year. There shall also be a militia of the reserve; when 40 or more persons enroll themselves, the adjutant may issue commissions. When public service requires more force than "the active militia," this "militia of the reserve" shall be called into service.

On the same day was passed an act to secure the safe keeping of arms in the hands of volunteer companies.

Sec. 1. Provides that each man shall receive $5.

Sec. 2. The commanders to report lists of members.

Sec. 3. The commanders to report all delinquencies in the company.

Sec. 4. The delinquents to be marked off by the adjutant-general, and the delinquents not to receive the $5.

Sec. 5. The aggregate not to exceed 6,000 men.

On the 13th the following law was passed to amend the militia law of 1859. It provided for carrying into effect the new military division of the State.

Sect. 5. That the commander-in-chief may, if he shall deem the same advisable, order a camp of instruction to be held, once a year, for four days, during the period of legal encampments, at which time the officers of the volunteer militia, or the officers and all other members of said militia, shall be drilled in the school of the soldier and the details of their respective duties, and section 3 of the act entitled "an act for the further discipline of the militia and volunteer militia," passed March 23, 1859, and providing a camp of instruction for officers only, is hereby repealed.

On the 15th of April the requisition of the President had been received for 75,000 men. The Governor issued the following proclamation:

To the People of Ohio:

You are called upon to meet the gravest responsibilities, and it may be sacrifices, to preserve your free institutions and your national independence. The attempt of your Government to supply a beleaguered garrison with provisions, has been met by open war, and the reduction of the garrison by force of arms. Your national flag has been insulted, and the constitutional authorities of the Union treasonably defied.

At such an hour, rising above all party names and party bias, resolute to maintain the freedom so dearly purchased by our fathers, and to transmit it unimpaired to our posterity, let the people assert their power. Your voice will be heard; your actions, giving hope to the overawed and oppressed in the rebellious districts, will strengthen the hands and animate the hearts of the loyal thousands in the Border States, and will bring back peace and order to the nation, with a new assurance of the perpetuity of its priceless blessings. The General Assembly, by acts just passed, opens to you the method of testifying your devotion to our beloved State, to the Union as it is, and those free institutions which have been alike the foundation and pledge of our national and individual prosperity.

The general orders issued through the proper department assert that method, and invite your response. Let us all be thankful to Almighty God for past mercies, imploring His pardon for our many shortcomings, and trusting with Him the destinies of our country, forget all but the pressing duty to cast aside the distinctions that have been the basis of transient differences, and demonstrate to the world that we are worthy sons of great ancestors, fit to be intrusted with the liberties we inherit.

W. DENNISON.

The Legislature on the same day passed a law regulating the troops to ho mustered into the service of the United States; the companies were not to number less than 70 men, cavalry 60 men, artillery 100 men each. The Governor was to organize and officer the brigades.

On the 18th was passed a law to provide for the defence of the State, and for the support of the Federal Government:

Section 1. Appropriates $450,000 to arm and equip the militia.

Sec. 2. Appropriates $.ri00,000 to carry into effect any requisition of the President.

Sec. 3. Places a contingent of (20,000 at the control of the Governor.

Sec 4. Authorizes a loan of $750,000.

Sec. 5. Authorities the issue of certificates at 6 per cent., fire years to run, not subject to any tax.

Sec. 6. Levies a tax of 7-20 of a mill on the dollar of taxable valuation, to meet the interest of the loan.

On May 7th an act was passed, by which a tax of half a mill on the dollar of taxable property was levied, to be applied to the relief of families of volunteers in each county. The relief was to he continued one year after the death of the volunteer, if he died in service.

The Legislature also passed a bill for leasing the public works of the State:

In compliance with the provisions of this "act to provide for leasing the Public Works of the State," passed May 8th, 1861, and after due advertisement, as required bv the act, the works, "consisting of the Miami and Erie Canal, Ohio Canal, Walhonding Canal, Hocking Canal," so much of the "Sandy and Beaver Canal, as is owned by the State, " Muskingum Improvement, and Western Reserve and Maumee Road, and all appertaining thereto, and owned by the State, for the purpose of being used in connection therewith, with the right to hare additional surplus water," were, by the Governor, Auditor and Treasurer of State, at public auction, in the rotunda of the State House, in the city of Columbus, on the 2'Jth of May, 1861, offered for a term of ten years, to the person or persons, who, in consideration of the tolls, fines, water-rents and revenues to be derived therefrom, should bid to pay the highest annual rent therefor, to be paid in semiannual payments in advance, in each year during the term or said lease; and were let, to Kent Jarvis, Joseph Cooper, Arnold Medway, Mr. Brown, Thomas Moore, and W. J. Jackson, for the annual rent of $20,075, and they came into possession June, 1861. In 1861, the expenses were (64,362 more than the revenue.

The joint resolution passed by Congress, proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States, guaranteeing slavery in the States where it now exists, was taken up and passed by the constitutional majority.

A bill defining and punishing treason also became a law.

On the 26th of April was passed "an act to Page 558 provide more effectually for the defence of the State against invasion. The appropriation in this act amounted to $2,000,000; to meet which, the commissioners of the sinking fund were empowered to borrow the amount. The same act authorized the Governor to call out nine regiments of infantry and eight of cavalry:

The Constitution of the State, Sec. 1, Article Till., limits the power of the State to contract debts to cases of "casual deficits or failures in revenues, or to meet expenses not otherwise provided for, but the aggregate of such debts, direct and contingent, whether contracted by one or more acts of the General Assembly, or at different periods of time, shall never exceed seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars."

Section 2 of "the same article provides that "In addition to the above limited power, the State may contract debts to repel invasion, suppress insurrection, defend the State in war, or to redeem the present outstanding indebtedness of the State." The loan authorized by the Act of April 18, 1861, is clearly within the powers granted in the Constitution. That authorized by the Act of April 26, is one of graver character, not only in the amount, but in the circumstances which would bring it within the powers conferred in the Constitution upon the General Assembly, and the Commissioners.

This difficulty was overcome by the Governor, who decided that "Ohio is in danger of invasion," and therefore that the debt is legal. The Constitution does not specify who shall decide on the danger of invasion.

The President, in his proclamation of April 15, had allowed the Confederates twenty days-in which to disperse. On the expiration of this notice, the following general order was issued at Columbus, the capital of Ohio. The order explains clearly the manner of proceeding to raise companies for a reserve force of 100,000 men, the number of companies to which each county is entitled, and other matters pertaining to the organization of this immense "Home Army:"

General Head-quarters. Adj't-General's Office,     Columbus, Onto, May 6,1861.

The twenty days' limit for the dispersion of rebels now in arms against the United States has expired. Whether the struggle for vindication of the imperilled Union shall be brief or protracted, the result is certain. The destinies of all nations are interwoven with that of America, and the issue is made up. Ohio will meet the crisis firmly and fulfil her part. The more decided her action, the sooner will peace succeed war, and loyalty supplant treason.

To give force and system to her action, the following general order is promulgated:

 I. The militia is divided into the "active army of operation" and the "militia of the reserve." The nine regiments now encamped, (additional to the thirteen mustered into the United States service,) and such further regiments as the General Assembly shall authorize, will be mustered into the State service, and placed under strict discipline, for immediate service.

II. The enrolled militia, between the ages of eighteen and forty-live, exceeds 300,000 men, This force is divided into the First, Second, and Third Reserve Corps.

The able-bodied force of other ages retired from service, but fully competent to meet any demand that the exigencies of the Union may require, exceeds 200,000 men, and will constitute the Fourth and Fifth Reserve Corps.

The First Reserve Corps will be organized forthwith, and be subject to immediate transfer into the "active army of operation." Applications, however, for the organization of militia of the reserve will not be limited to this quota, but the companies composing it will receive the post of honor and the first assignment to active duty in case the country require their service. * * * * *

 VI. As a general rule, public arms will not be issued to the militia of the reserve, but a proximate estimate of the number of private rifles in the possession of men expert in their use, shows that, with proper exercises, nearly or quite the entire first contingent of 100,000 men can be armed, and disciplined in hours of leisure, postponing their draft upon the State until they are transferred to the active corps. * * *

       H. B. CARRINGTOX, Adjutant-General.

By order of the Commander-in-Chief.

The people of Toledo, Dayton, and Zanesville, Ohio, subscribed large sums of money for the support of the volunteers and their families; at the latter place, large property holders agreed to give houses rent free to families of volunteers during their absence.

In September, the Federal Government refunded to the State $900,000 of the amount of $2,100,000 it had expended in forwarding troops, which began speedily to move forward. The First Ohio, McCook, 1,000 men, and the Second Ohio, Wilson, 1,000 men, arrived in Washington May 23d.

The Ohio troops were organized under Geo. B. McClellan, formerly a distinguished army officer, but who was the General Superintendent of the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad. He was made major-general of the State forces, and up to June 1st, the following troops had been mustered for three months: 1st Regiment, Colonel McCook; 2d, Wilson; 3d, Marrow; 4th, Andrews; 5th, Dunning; 6th, Buckley; 7th, Tyler; 8th, DePuss; 9th, McCook; 10th, Lytle; 11th, Harrison; 12th,Lowe; 13th, Piatt; 14th, Steadman; 15th, Andrews; 16tb, Irvine; 17tb, Connell; 18th, Stanley; 19th, Beatty; 20th, Morton; 21st, Norton; 22d, Gilmore. The whole number of troops organized by Ohio for the war was, to December 31st, 1861, as follows:

In camps in the State: Thirty-five regiments infantry 26,146 Four regiments cavalry 4,485 Seventeen batteries artillery. 1,228

Total 81,679 Amount of Ohio force in three years' service, December 31st, 1861: Infantry 67,546 Cavalry 7,270 Artillery 8,028

Total 77,844

To which add twenty-two full regiments for three months 22,000 Two companies of cavalry 180 Two sections artillery 80 One battery. 120 Grand total 100,224

The expenses paid by Ohio were as follows:

Columbus, Ohio, August 1, 1861.

It is hereby certified that the costs, charges, and expenses, properly incurred by the State of Ohio, for enrolling, subsisting, clothing, supplying, arming, equipping, and transporting its troops employed in aiding to Page 559 suppress the present insurrection against the United States, exceed the sum of the following items, viz.: Enrolment $20,000 Incidental expenses. 80,000 Subsistence 800,000 Clothing 600,000 Barracks, camp equipage, medical supplies, ammunition, &c 250.000 Arms. 400,000 Equipping troops. 850.000 Transportation 150,000

Two million ono hundred thousand dollars... $2,100,000

W. DENNISON, Governor of Ohio.

E. W. Taylee, Auditor of State.

In the month of July the troops were transferred to the United States, and the State thus relieved from their payment.

The Ohio Democratic State Convention met at Columbus, August 10, and nominated H. J. Jewett for Governor, and John Scott Harrison for Lieutenant-Governor. A series of resolutions were adopted. The third recommended the legislatures of the States to call a National Convention for settling the present difficulties and restoring and preserving the Union. The sixth resolution condemned the President's attempt to suspend the writ of habeas corpus.

The public debt of the State of Ohio is $13,685,233; add for war purposes $1,212,037; total, $14,807,273. This is an increase on the year of $647,039—some old debts having been paid off.

The valuation of State property for 1861— number of acres 25,871,275—is, real estate in the country, $494,064,639; in towns and cities, $149,818,913; personal property, $248,966,532. Total, $892,850,084.

Taxes for State purposes, 4.55 mills, $4,056,379; for local purposes, $7,014,748. Total taxes, $11,071,127.

The payments in counties, in 1861, on account of the Common School Fund, were $1,205,107.

The number of horses in the State is 730,427; value, $36,211,355. Cattle, 1,837,938; value, $19,734,830. Mules, 11,155; value, $601,479. Carriages, 299,012; value, $2,931,449. Watches, 84,465; value, $1,571,699. Pianos, 9,264; value, $1,650,798. Value of merchants' stock, $24,724,844; manufactures, $9,385,665. Credits, accounts, &c, $55,545,191.

The number of acres in wheat, 1,844,677; bushels, 23,640,356. In corn, 2,397,639; bushels, 91,588,704. In oats, 830,104; bushels, 25,127,724.

During 1861, there were 22,251 marriages in Ohio, which is 1 in each 105 of population, the highest ratio among civilized nations. The number in 1859 was 420 greater. When Ohio sent 100,000 males, or 20 per cent, of the active male population, into the army, it affected the result. During 1861, there were 11,233 naturalizations, of whom 5,349 were Germans; 2,108 Irish; the residue English, Welsh, Scotch, French, &c. Of the whole number, 8,970 were naturalized in the Probate Courts, and 2,263 in the Courts of Common Pleas. The number naturalized in 1860 was 10,479. In the last three years, 80,705, or 10,000 a year—indicating a total increase for 1859-60-01, of 30,000 persons. Of the whole number of naturalized persons, 19,159 were Germans.

In times of peace, the commission of crimes is remarkably uniform from year to year. The number of indictments for 1861 was 2,827; convictions^ 1,374; of which 724 were crimes against persons, 597 against property. Crimea against society, 1,422.

The number of violent deaths returned for 66 counties in 1861, were 621, 100 more than were returned for 62 counties in 1860—up to July 1st-each year. The number of homicides in 1861 was 12 less than in 1860; of suicides 16 more; and of casualties 94 more. It is remarked that suicide has been increasing of late years, owing to disturbing causes in the commercial world, and the war. Casualties—particularly serious railroad accidents—increased. Homicides have been caused chiefly by intemperance. The new structures which have been built in Ohio during the last four years, are as follows: 

In 1858 10,458 $5,012,054 In 1859 7,812 4,972,645 In 1860 8,100 8,635.513 In 1861 9,831 4,463,042

Average 9,000 Value $4,800,000

Rather more than two-thirds are dwelling houses and stores. Of the foregoing, 25,000 were of these classes. This would indicate an increase of population of 372,000 in ten years. The increase shown by the census was 360,000.

The total number of paupers of all classes, lunatics, &c, is 35,900; or 1 in 70 in the whole population who belong to the dependent class. A large number in fact, but small relatively compared with other nations.

On the subject of debt, the Commissioner of Statistics assumes that three-fourths of the debts due in this State from any source are known, without doubt—including the State, municipal, bank, record, and judgment debts. The commercial and private unrecorded debts then remain to be ascertained. The latter must be small, because only small sums are loaned without security. All other debts by loan are either in the form of mortgage, judgment liens, or endorsed notes discounted in banks. The commercial debt, however, is large. The debt of importers cannot exceed more than half the imports, and the imports cannot materially exceed the exports. The export value of domestic produce and of manufactures of domestic materials and labor does not vary materially from $60,000,000 per annum. Many sales are made for cash, and credit rarely exceeds six months, and therefore half the value of exports is sufficient to allow for the debts of wholesale merchants. The same amount is sufficient allowance for consumers and retailers. The commercial debt of the State in ordinary times is not over $60,000,000. But in these extraordinary times it will be safe to say Page 560 it does not exceed two-thirds of that amount. The private debts are the only really uncertain debts in the State. Ten millions is a large estimate for them. But the ascertained and estimated debts of the whole State, and of all corporations and persons, &c, will stand thus: State debt $14,250,000 Municipal debts 9,650,000 Judgment debt (1861) 8,928,166 Recorded mortgages (1861) 29,784,966 Railroad debt 86,000,000 Bank debt 15,500,000 Commercial debt 40,000,000 Private debt 10,000,000

Aggregate $184,063,182

The life of a mortgage is slightly over two years. There will always be outstanding two years of mortgage debts, so that, adding to the above the mortgage debt of 1860—being $28,788,998; also two years' judgment, being $9,903,854 for 1860, it makes a general aggregate debt of $222,705,982.

The following will show the heights, weight, circumference around the chest, complexion, color of the hair and eyes, of 239 native Americans of Athens, Butler, Highland, Montgomery, and Washington counties. The persons were taken indiscriminately.

The average height per man is a fraction under five feet ten and a half inches; circumference of chest 38.02. The complexions of 136 were light; 67 were dark; 109 had light, 89 dark hair; 139 light, 76 dark eyes. The average weight was 169 pounds. Highland County showed the tallest and heaviest men. Twenty-one who were weighed averaged 182 pounds. In Athens 119 averaged 154 pounds; 42 in Butler averaged 168 pounds; 33 in Montgomery averaged 165.1 pounds; and 24 in Washington averaged 176 pounds. The average height for the State is 5 feet 10.57 inches. An inch is deducted for boot-heels, so as to reduce the standard to 5 feet 9£ inches, which is regarded as the natural height of the present men of Ohio. The average height of Belgian men, given by Quetelet, (3,500 men measured,) is 5 feet 54 inches. Of 979 recruits in the British army, in the London District, 1838-9, the height was 5 feet 6 9-10. Eleven regiments of Scotch Highlanders measured 5 feet 7 8-10 inches.

It thus appears that the average height of Ohio men in the above table is 4 inches above that of the Belgians, 2-Jabove that of the English recruits, and 1J inches above that of the Highlanders.

The maximum heights of men in the above counties, show that there were at and above 6 feet in height: In Athens County, of 119 21 Butler of 42 11 Highland "of 21 9 Montgomery" of 88 8 Washington" »of 24 10 Of the whole number, 59, or one-fourth, were C feet and over. More tall men may be found in the Ohio Valley than in any other locality. The comparison of measurement about the chest is as follows: Men of Ohio ; 89 02 inches. English (London recruits) 82.06" Scotch Highlanders 89.02" The Scotch appear stouter in the chest than Americans, but no other race is.

Fair complexions predominate in Ohio. There are few of olive brunette, or dark complexion. The great majority are light or sanguine. The eyes are light in the proportion of 3 to 2—including blue and gray in the light class, black and hazel in the dark. The hair is the only feature, among Americans, and especially in Ohio, which approaches the characteristics of the dark nations. Even in this, the majority have what may be fairly called light hair—including most of the brown hair. The weight given in the above figures is very heavy—an average of 169 pounds. In making a comparison, ten pounds are allowed for clothing.

Measurements of 238 men, in different villages in Ohio, taken from the Smithsonian Institute, show an average height of 5 feet 9f inches, weight, 157 lbs.; average age, 32. Bell Center showed the largest proportions: 24 men, averaging 30 years of age, show an average of 5 feet 11 inches, weighing 168 lbs. In New Lisbon, 24 men, 5 feet 10 inches, weighed 172 lbs.

The proportion of males in Ohio over 18 years of age, is 49 per cent. The whole number of males in the State is 1,169,799. The number of females over 18 years of age, 573,202. The whole number of males capable of bearing arms, according to established rules, is 523,566.

PENNSYLVANIA, one of the Middle States, and the second in population, is bounded north by Lake Erie and New York, east by New York and New Jersey, south by Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, and west by Virginia and Ohio. It is about 310 miles in length, and 160 in width, except at the northwest corner, where it is 175 miles, and contains an area of 46,000 square miles. The population in 1860 was 2,849,997 white; 56,373 free colored; total, 2,906,370. The ratio of increase during the previous ten years was 26.20 white, and 5.12 colored.

The Page 569 vote of the State at the presidential election in 1856 was: Fremont 148,272; Buchanan, 230,772; Fillmore, 82,202. In 1860 the vote was: Lincoln, 268,030; Douglas, 16,765; Breckinridge, 178,871; Bell, 12,776.

In mineral wealth, especially coal and iron, Pennsylvania is the first State in the Union. (See Anthracite.) In manufactures she ranks among the first States of the Union, and in agriculture and commerce, internal improvements and public institutions, she holds an equally prominent position. (See New American Cyclopaedia.) The Governor is elected by the people for three years. Andrew G. Curtin was inaugurated as Governor on January 15, 1861. The Senate consists of thirty-three members elected for three years, and the House of Representatives of one hundred members elected annually.

The Governor upon his inauguration delivered an address, in which he stated his view of the affaire of the nation. He pledged himself to stand between the Constitution and all encroachments instigated by hatred, ambition, fanaticism, or folly. He said the election of the President had been made a pretext for disturbing the peace of the country by wresting from the Federal Government the powers which the people conferred on it when the Constitution was adopted. There had been nothing in the life or acts of Mr. Lincoln to warrant the excitement. Blinded in their judgment, a part of the people were precipitating themselves into a revolution. He proposed the repeal of the personal liberty bill, if it contravened any Federal law, and said: "It is the first duty of the Federal Government to stay the progress of anarchy, enforce the laws, and Pennsylvania will give it a united, honest, and faithful support. The people mean to preserve the Union at every hazard."

On the 17th of January, the House passed a series of resolutions approbatory of the course of Major Anderson, and Governor Hicks of Maryland, and pledging to Maryland the fellowship and support of Pennsylvania.

As early as the 24th of January the Legislature adopted the following resolutions relative to the maintenance of the Constitution and the Union:

Whereas a convention of delegates assembled in the city of Charleston, in the State of South Carolina, did, on the 20th day of December, in the year of our Lord 1860, adopt an ordinance, entitled "An ordinance to dissolve the Union between the State of South Carolina and other States united with her under the compact entitled 'The Constitution of the United States of America.'"

1. Resolved, That if the rights of the people of South Carolina under this Constitution are disregarded, their tranquillity disturbed, their prosperity retarded, or their liberties imperilled, by the people of any other State, full and adequate redress can, and ought to be, provided for such grievances through the action of Congress, and other proper departments of the National Government.

2. Resolved, That the people of Pennsylvania entertain and desire to cherish the most fraternal sentiments for their brethren of other States, and are ready now, as they have ever been, to cooperate in all measures needful for their welfare, security, and happiness, under the Constitution which makes us one people. That while they cannot surrender their love of liberty inherited from the founders of their State, sealed with the blood of the Revolution, and witnessed in the history of their legislation; and while they claim the observance of all their rights under the Constitution, they nevertheless maintain now, as they have ever done, the constitutional rights of the people of the slaveholding States, to the uninterrupted enjoyment of their own domestic institutions.

3. Resolved, That we adopt the sentiment and language of President Andrew Jackson, expressed in his Message to Congress, on the 16th day of January, 1838: "That the right of the people of a single State to absolve themselves at will, and without the consent of the other States, from their most solemn obligations, and hazard the liberties and happiness of the millions composing this Union, cannot be acknowledged; and that such authority is utterly repugnant both to the principles upon which the General Government is constituted, and the objects which it was expressly formed to attain."

4. Resolved, That the Constitution of the United States of America contains all the powers necessary to the maintenance of its authority, and it is the solemn and most imperative duty of the Government to adopt and carry into effect whatever measures may be necessary to that end; and the faith and the power of Pennsylvania are hereby pledged to the support of such measures, in any manner and to any extent that may be required of her by the constituted authorities of the United States.

5. Resolved, That all plots, conspiracies, and warlike demonstrations against the United States, in any section of the country, are treasonable in their character; and whatever power of the Government is necessary to their suppression, should be applied to that purpose without hesitation or delay.

However the people of the State had been divided heretofore, in reference to political parties, they were unanimous in favor of the Union, the observance of the Constitution, and the enforcement of the laws. In Philadelphia a large public meeting was convened at this time, at which persons of all parties were present. Major Anderson had then just removed from Fort Moultrie, in Charleston Harbor, to Fort Sumter with his garrison. This meeting approved his conduct with a unanimous voice. In other parts of the State similar demonstrations were of almost daily occurrence. Nevertheless, so long as the people of the Southern States did not violate the laws, they had many sympathizing friends in Pennsylvania; but the seizure of Federal property and the open defiance of the Constitution was a shock to those friendly sympathies. The progress of affairs, however, was watched with intense interest. On the 9th of April the Governor sent a Message to the Legislature recommending, in view of the condition of national affairs, that measures be immediately adopted for remedying existing defects in the militia system of Pennsylvania. "With a view to effecting this object he suggested that a military bureau be established at Harrisburg, that the militia laws be modified, and that a proper distribution of suitable arms be made to such citizens as should attach themselves to volunteer companies in the State. Some of his views on the subject were thus expressed:

"The militia system of the State, during a

Page 570 long period distinguished by the pursuits of peaceful industry exclusively, has become wholly inefficient, and the interference of the Legislature is required to remove its defects, and to render it available to the public service.

"Precautions such as I have suggested are wise and proper at all times in a Government like ours; but especial and momentous considerations, arising from the condition of public affairs outside the limits, yet of incalculable consequence to the people, and demanding the gravest attention of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, invest the subject to which your action is invited by this communication with extraordinary interest and importance.

"We cannot be insensible to the fact that serious jealousies and divisions distract the public mind, and that in portions of this Union the peace of the country, if not the safety of the Government itself, is endangered.

"Military organizations of a formidable character, which seem not to be demanded by any existing public exigency, have been formed in certain of the States. On whatever pretext these extraordinary military preparations may have been made, no purpose that may contemplate resistance to the enforcement of the laws will meet sympathy or encouragement from the people of this Commonwealth.

"Pennsylvania yields to no State in her respect for and her willingness to protect, by all needful guarantees, the constitutional rights and constitutional independence of her sister States, nor in fidelity to that constitutional Union whose unexampled benefits have been showered alike upon herself and them.

"The most exalted public policy and the clearest obligations of true patriotism, therefore, admonish us, in the existing deplorable and dangerous crisis of affairs, that our militia system should receive from the Legislature that prompt attention which public exigencies, either of the State or of the nation, may appear to demand, and which may seem in your wisdom best adapted to preserve and secure to the people of Pennsylvania and the Union the blessings of peace and the integrity and stability of our unrivalled Constitutional Government.

"The government of this great State was established by its illustrious founder 'in deeds of peace.' Our people have been trained and disciplined in those arts which lead to the promotion of their own moral and physical development and progress, and, with the highest regard for the rights of others, have always cultivated fraternal relations with the people of all the States devoted to the Constitution and the Union, and always recognizing the spirit of concession and compromise that underlies the foundation of the Government.

"Pennsylvania offers no counsel and takes no action in the nature of a menace. Her desire is for peace, and her object the preservation of the personal and political rights of citizens, of the true sovereignty of States, and the supremacy of law and order.

"Animated by these sentiments and indulging an earnest hope of the speedy restoration of those harmonious and friendly relations between the various members of this Confederacy which have brought our beloved country to a condition of unequalled power and prosperity, I commit the grave subject of this communication to your deliberation."

A bill, corresponding to those recommendations of the Governor, was immediately reported in the Legislature, which passed both-Houses without amendment, and became a law on the 12th of April. It also appropriated half a million of dollars for the purpose of arming and equipping the militia. This gathering of the elements of the approaching contest, indicates that those who set them in motion knew what was at hand and were determined to be ready for the fearful contest. In the House the bill passed by a vote of ayes, 65; noes, 28.

Mr. Smith, a democratic member of the House, after despatches had been read announcing the commencement of hostilities at Charleston, changed his vote in order to urge forward this bill. In the Senate it was adopted by a vote of ayes, 26 ; noes, 6; and before eight o'clock that evening became a law by receiving the signature of the Governor.

On the next day a bill to define and punish treason passed the Senate. It forbid any citizen of the State to take a military commission from the enemies of the United States, or to engage in any plot or conspiracy, or traitorous correspondence, or furnish arms, under a penalty of two years' imprisonment, and a fine of five thousand dollars. Any person convicted of selling vessels to the enemy or fitting out privateers should be punished by five years' imprisonment and a fine of five thousand dollars. All officers of the Pennsylvania volunteers were required to take an oath of allegiance to the United States within thirty days; on refusal they should be at once deprived of their commissions. Two new regiments specially raised for the United States reported on this day as ready for immediate service. This was two days before the proclamation of the President calling out troops was issued. The Legislature, immediately after the passage of this bill, adjourned.

On the 15th of April the excitement in Philadelphia, the principal city in the State, and one of the largest in the Union, was great in consequence of the attack upon Fort Sumter, the proclamation of the President calling for volunteers, and the feeling of exasperation in the public mind caused by the presence in the city of persons who were suspected of sympathy with the secessionists. A largo mob collected in the streets, which at one time numbered about ton thousand. The office of the "Palmetto Flag," a newspaper recently commenced for advertising purposes, was visited, and the demonstrations against it were of so decided a character as to call for the interference of the police. The proprietors were obliged to display the American flag, and Mayor Henry made a speech Page 571 deprecating violence, but giving assurances that no traitors should be tolerated in Philadelphia. The mob subsequently visited several other establishments and the houses of several citizens suspected of Southern sympathies. At one period it was feared that all control of the crowd would be lost by the police, and that more serious acts of lawlessness would occur. 'When, at the office of the "Palmetto Flag," the danger of the beginning of a riot seemed imminent, Mayor Henry appeared at one of the windows with the "Stars and Stripes" in his hands, and thus addressed the tumultuous crowd:

"Fellow-citizens: Lend me your ears as becoming good and loyal citizens—men loyal to your country and her honor. (Cheers.)' My fellow-citizens, no traitor shall rear his head or have a foothold in the city of Philadelphia. (Great cheering.) With the help of Almighty God, treason shall not raise its destructive hand to tear down the flag of the Union. (Tremendous cheers.) I call upon you now and for the future to protect this flag at the point of the bayonet and at the cost of our lives. (Here he waved the American flag mid the most deafening yells.) Fellow-citizen while I conjure you to stand by the flag of the Union, do not forget the private rights of individuals; be calm and resolute, defend your flag against treason, but act with prudence, and do not invade the rights or property of individuals." (Great cheering.)

American flags were then displayed from the windows of the building and the crowd moved off.

In all sections of the city might be seen the American colors displayed, not merely on newspaper offices, the Custom House, Corn Exchange, manufactories and stores, but also upon private dwellings.

Throughout the city a Union pledge responding to the President's proclamation, and declaring an unalterable determination to sustain the Government, throwing aside all differences of political opinion, received the signatures of all classes of citizens.

On the 20th of April, the Governor issued a proclamation convening an extra session of the Legislature. It was as follows:

Whereas, An armed rebellion exists in a portion of the States of the Union, threatening the destruction of the National Government, perilling public and private property, endangering the peace and security of this Commonwealth, and inviting systematic piracy; and

Whereas, Adequate provision does not exist by law to enable the Executive to make the military power of the State as available and efficient as it should be for the common defence of the State and the General Government ; and }

Whereas, An occasion 80 extraordinary requires prompt legislative power;

Therefore, I, Andrew G. Curtin, Governor of the Commonwealth, by virtue of the power vested in me, do hereby convene the General Assembly of this Commonwealth, and require the members of the Senate and House of Representatives to meet at their respective houses at Harrisburg, on Tuesday, 30th of April, at noon, there to take into consideration, and adopt such measures, in the premises, as the present exigency may demand.

The quota of Pennsylvania under the call of the President was 14 regiments. This call was enthusiastically responded to by the people of the State. The first detachment of troops which arrived in Washington after the issue of the requisition by the Secretary of War consisted of 500 men from the brigade raised by General W. P. Small of Philadelphia. They left that city on the night of the 17th, and arrived safely at Washington. At the same time companies and Regiments commenced to move for Harrisburg from several counties of the State, which manifested a rivalry of each other in a prompt response to the call. Harrisburg became the military centre of the State. It i3 the capital, and situated on the east bank of the Susquehanna River, 100 miles west by north from Philadelphia, and 110 miles north by east of Washington. Early on the 21st of April soldiers were pouring into the city, and a vast camp was formed. Among them were troops of Ohio, who, in their eagerness to rescue Washington, had come forward in detachments of single companies. In one day there arrived the Cincinnati Zouaves, Pickaway Guards, Cleveland Grays, Cincinnati Rovers, Cincinnati Lafayette Guards, Urbana Rifles, Mansfield Independents. Each of these companies was over 80 strong, and many were in a line state of discipline; also the Dayton Light Guards, 100 men; Zanesville Guards, 100men; Steubenville Guards, 100 men, all from the State of Ohio.

The inhabitants of Harrisburg were in the streets that day to see this crowd of uniformed individuals in their unorganized, unmilitary condition. The burning of the bridges near Baltimore, thus cutting off their communication with Washington, added to the excitement. Military operations commenced at once. A body of 2,000 men were thrown forward, by the midnight train, to the first bridge on the way to Baltimore, which had been destroyed on the Baltimore and Harrisburg railroad. These 2,000 were followed by 300 regulars from Carlisle, and by a battery of flying artillery, and 1,000 more volunteers.

On the 27th of April at least 5,000 men had arrived at Camp Curtin in Harrisburg, 2,000 were encamped at Lancaster, and 5,000 were  in readiness to march from Philadelphia.

On the 19th a request from the War Department had been sent to the Governor that the troops preparing in the State should be clothed, armed, equipped, subsisted, and transported by the State, in consequence of the inability of the Federal Government. 25 regiments, comprising 20,175 men were thus fitted out, and served for three months under the President's proclamation. On the expiration of their term 8,000 or 10,000 of the volunteers were returned to Harrisburg without any previous notice, and with neither cooked food or tents.

On the 30th of April the special session of the Legislature commenced, at which an act was passed authorizing the organization of a reserve corps to be armed, equipped, clothed, subsisted, and paid by the State, and drilled in camps of instruction in anticipation. A loan of $3,000,000 was authorized to defray the expenses of that and other military organizations. At the time of the passage of the act more than sufficient men to form 10 regiments had been accepted, and were under the control of the Governor. The force thus raised as a reserve corps was drilled in four camps in different parts of the State, until it was taken into the service of the United States.

On the l6th the Legislature passed unanimously the following resolutions:

Whereas, The States of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, and Texas are in armed and treasonable rebellion against the sovereign authority and Government of the United States, and have constituted, and are endeavoring to maintain, a treasonable and rebellious government, intended to subvert the Constitution and laws of the United States, and to dissolve their allegiance thereto, and have seized the revenues, forts, arsenals, navy yards, and such other exclusive property of the National Government as were within their power of seizure, and have coerced loyal citizens within their borders to unwilling submission to their authority, and have raised officers, equipped and assembled large armies and ships of war, with the avowed purpose to wage aggressive warfare against the Constitution and lawful authorities of the Union, and against the liberties of the people, and have besieged, attacked, and captured a fort in the actual and peaceable possession of the United States troops, and have made the garrison prisoners of war, whilst under the protection of the National flag and the Federal laws.

Resolved, That the faith, credit, and resources of the State, in both men and money, are hereby pledged to any amount and to every extent which the Federal Government may demand to subdue the rebellion; to punish the treason; to enforce the laws; to protect the lives, the liberties, and the property of the people; and to maintain inviolate the Constitution and the sovereignty of the nation.

Resolved, That the Governor be and is hereby directed to forward a certified copy of this preamble and resolution to the President of the United States.

Besides those of the troops of Pennsylvania which were sent forward to Washington, others were ordered to Chambersburg, an important town in the southern part of the State, and directly north of Hagerstown, Maryland, and Harper's Ferry, in Virginia. This continued until 20,000 troops had been concentrated there. They were put under the command of General Patterson, by whom they were rapidly organized, and placed on an efficient footing. Excepting a regiment of U. S. regulars, and half a regiment of U. S. cavalry, the remainder were volunteers. Of these all were Pennsylvania troops, except one regiment from Michigan and one from Rhode Island. The force of artillery was 6 field-batteries of six guns each, and one or two howitzers. This force subsequently moved to Hagerstown, in Maryland, then to Harper's Ferry, and over the Potomac into Virginia, where they were stationed at the time of the battle at Bull Run. Subsequently it was withdrawn to the Maryland side of the Potomac, and placed under the command of General Banks. Other troops were added, and it remained as a check upon the Confederate force on the Virginia side of the Potomac. Many skirmishes ensued between the pickets and outposts of these two hostile forces, of which the most important was at Ball's Bluff. (See Ball's Bluff.)

Towards the close of July the whole reserve corps in the State was called for under a requisition, and taken into the Federal service. It comprised 15 regiments, and contained 15,856 men. The whole expense of this reserve corps, except transportation, to the State, was $855,444. Further requisitions were made, until the number of regiments was 115. The force existing at the close of the year was as follows:

REGIMENTS IN SERVICE.

66 regiments of infantry, of which 6 were rifle regiments 71,279

11 regiments of cavalry 12,6OO

1 regiment of artillery 1,077

Total 84,950

COMPANIES IS SERVICE.

7 companies of infantry 707

6 companies of cavalry 578

6 companies of artillery 936

Total 2,221 87,177

Enlistments in other than Pennsylvania organizations, estimated (the officers of which arc in course of being commissioned) 6,400

Total in service 93,577

REGIMENTS PREPARING FOR SERVICE.

12 regiments of infantry 13,092

1 regiment of cavalry 1,186

1 regiment of artillery 1,077

Total 15,805

COMPANIES PREPARING FOR SERVICE.

1 company of cavalry 109

4 companies of artillery 624

Total 733

Total preparing for service 16,033

In service 93,577

Pennsylvania's contribution 109,015 exclusive of 20,175 three-months men disbanded.

At the same time the State had 62 pieces of artillery, of which 17 needed repairs; 26,753 muskets and rifles, some of which were in the hands of mechanics being repaired; 1,910 were in the hands of volunteer corps throughout the State; 1,930 in the possession of county commissioners, and 1,000 with the reserve corps of Philadelphia. In addition to this amount, the city of Philadelphia had 9 pieces of rifled artillery, and 4,970 muskets and rifles, and also 440 sabres and 826 pistols, with the necessary accoutrements for cavalry use. The State had al=o in the arsenal at Harrisburg 1,966 sabres and swords, and 1,957 pistols; together with a large amount of accoutrements and ammunition for artillery and small-arms. Thus her military contributions for the war showed a liberality and promptness equal to any other State.

Two vacancies having occurred during the year in the representation to Congress from the State, it became necessary to fill them. In the twelfth district the candidate nominated by the Democratic Convention accepted the nomination Page 573 upon the condition that all other issues were to be set aside, but that of "the Constitution and the enforcement of the laws." Two days later the Republican Convention met, and nominated the same candidate. Thus rapidly had party issues here vanished from sight. In the second district the Republican Convention refused to set aside party issues and consult with the democrats by a vote of 13 to 20.

The debt of the State of Pennsylvania was mostly incurred for the construction of her great lines of canals connecting Philadelphia with the Ohio at Pittsburg. These cost over $20,000,000, but did not yield, under State management, an adequate return, although they greatly aided the development of State commerce. The State recently has sold the whole line of works to the Pennsylvania Railroad Co. for $ll,081,000,the bonds of which, with other material, cancel an equal amount of the State debt, which consists of $36,967,291 of 5 per cent, stock, $400,630 of 6 per cent, stock, $381,200 of 4Jper cent, stock, and $100,000 of 4 per cent, stock, together $37,849,421. This sum includes a loan of $100,000, issued November 1860, at 92.97 per cent. The State has also stock in incorporated companies, amounting to $1,746,546. There is also a small unfunded debt, embracing $99,402 of relief notes, a 6pecies of State circulation issued in 1887-39, at a period when the banks had suspended. On the occurrence of the war, the State issued a loan of $3,000,000, to forward the troops and meet the first expenses of the campaign. For the purpose of organizing and equipping the first levies, the war act authorized the appropriation of $500,000, and ordered the Governor to issue a 6 per cent. scrip, having one year to run, in order to raise the amount. The banks of the State suspended as a consequence of the war, but the authorities insisted upon as much specie as would meet the interest on the public debt. This payment is to be continued in specie.

There are in Pennsylvania a number of railroads in progress, which are designed to afford to the northwestern part of the State more prompt and intimate connection with Pittsburg and Philadelphia, and which will add to the freight of the great Pennsylvania line. The large tract, forming nearly one-fourth part of the whole State, bounded on the north by New York, south by the Pennsylvania railroad, west by Ohio, and east by the Alleghany, has hitherto been without communication by railroad.

VERMONT, one of the New England States, the first admitted under the Federal Constitution. It is situated between lat. 42° 44' and 45° ST., and long. 71° 33' and 73° 25' W., and is bounded north by Lower Canada, cast by New Hampshire, from which the Connecticut River separates it, south by Massachusetts, and west by New York and Lake Champlain, of which about two-thirds lies within the State. Its area is 9,056^ square miles, or 5,795,960 acres. It is divided into 14 counties. The population, according to the census of 1860, was 315,116. It is eminently an agricultural State. In 1860, 4,995,624 acres of land were taxed, and the average price at which the land was assessed was over $14 per acre. A large proportion" of the land is better adapted to grazing than to tillage, and the horses, cattle, sheep, and swine of the State are of excellent quality. On the 1st of January, 1862, there were 576 miles of railroad completed or in progress in the State, of which 555 miles, costing for construction Page 727 and equipment $22,586,705, were open for traffic. According to the census of 1860, the value of the products of industry for the year ending June 1, 1860 were, in round numbers, $16,000,000. The following were some of the items: sawed and planed lumber, $1,060,000; flour, $1,660,000; steam engines and machinery, $490,000; agricultural implements, $160,000; tanned leather, $1,000,000; iron ore, $18,000; bar iron, $63,000; pig iron, $93,000. The commerce of Vermont is conducted entirely on Lake Champlain. The enrolled and licensed tonnage of the State in 1860 was 7,744 tons; the arrivals 29,232 tons, and the clearances 23,460. The exports of the State the same year were $783,702, of which $257,083 were domestic products, and $526,619 foreign. The imports were $2,731,857, of which a large proportion were British goods admitted through Canada under the reciprocity treaty. The number of banks in the State in 1861 was 44, whose condition was as follows: Capital $3,872,042 Loans and discounts 6,749,500 Stocks 190,372 Real estate 174,736 Other investments 108,662 Due by other banks 1,299,595 Notes of other banks 68,558 Cash items 103,537 Specie 185,670 Circulation 3,784,673 Deposits 814,623 Due to other banks 15,042

The number of savings banks was 14, of which 2 were in the hands of receivers in chancery, 2 were winding up their affairs, and 10 were receiving deposits. The deposits in 12 of these banks were $1,145,263. The State valuation of the real and personal estate of its inhabitants in 1860 was $86,871,851.65. The government valuation under the census of 1860 was $122,477,170. Up to January, 1861, the State had no permanent debt; a temporary loan, to be reimbursed by State tax, of $175,000, had been contracted for the completion of a new State house. The government of the State had been conducted with great economy, the entire expenditure for executive, legislative, and judicial purposes seldom or never reaching the sum of $200,000.

No State in the Union responded more heartily or willingly to the President's proclamation of the 15th of April, 1861, than Vermont.

On the 21st of April, despatches received from all the principal towns of the State reported the prevalence of intense enthusiasm and interest, and the rapid enlistment of volunteers. Governor Hall called an extra session of the Legislature, which convened at Montpelier on the 22d of April, and in the course of a brief session passed an appropriation of one million dollars for military purposes, one-half absolutely, and one-half at the Governor's discretion.

The organization of one regiment for immediate service, in response to the call of the Government, was authorized, and also the organization and placing upon a war footing, without delay, of two more regiments, with provisions for drilling the same in barracks or encampment.

The Governor was empowered to call out four more regiments, if needed, (making seven in all,) with provision for filling the ranks of all the regiments by draft from the enrolled militia, when volunteers are wanting.

An act exempting militia men, in service,  from arrest on civil process; granting to each private seven dollars a month, in addition to the regular pay of the United States army; providing for their families at the cost of the State, in case of destitution; and paying for the uniforms of those enlisting after March 12, 1861, was passed.

An act authorizing banks to loan over ten per cent, of their capital to the State, and an act for a State tax of ten cents on the dollar, were also adopted.

They also repealed sections ten and eleven of the Personal Liberty bill, which had been complained of as inconsistent with the Constitution of the United States, and substituted for it the following law: It is hereby enacted bv the General Assembly of the State of Vermont, as follows:

Section 1. If any person shall kidnap or unlawfully carry off or attempt to kidnap or unlawfully carry off any other person, or shall decoy, or attempt to decoy, any other person from, or shall without due process of law remove, or aid, or assist in removing any other person from this State, or shall without due process of law deprive any other person of his liberty, with intent to remove, or aid, or assist in removing such other person from this State, he shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred and not exceeding three thousand dollars, or be imprisoned in the State prison for a term not exceeding three years, or both said punishments, in the discretion of the court.

Sec. 2. Sections ten and eleven of chapter one hundred and one of the compiled statutes, and sections two, three, four, six, seven and eight of an act entitled "An act to secure freedom to all persons within this State," approved November 25, a. d. 1858, are hereby repealed.

Sec. 3. This act shall take effect from its passage.

The raising of the sum of one million dollars, by loan or otherwise, was an unprecedented measure in the little State of Vermont. So large a sum had hardly ever been mentioned before in its Legislature, and the levying of a tax of ten cents on the dollar on the grand list, was an act equally without parallel in its history; yet there was no hesitation, and no dissenting voices.

On the 10th of May, her first regiment arrived in New York, admirably equipped, under the command of Colonel (now General) J. Wolcott Phelps, a graduate of West Point. This regiment was in many respects the most remarkable of the many which entered the service as three-months men. It was composed to an extraordinary extent of men of superior education and social position. Nearly one-tenth of its numbers, including many privates, were Page 728 graduates of New England colleges. Many were professional men of high standing, and almost all were men of strictly temperate habits. The remarkable stature of a considerable number of the men attracted attention. Ten men from one of the companies lay down upon the ground for measurement, and formed a line sixty-seven feet and ten inches in length. A visitor admired the unusually firm and substantial character of their blankets, so different from the shoddy blankets of some of the regiments from other States; "Our wives and sisters made them," said the Vermonter, proudly. A second regiment from Vermont reached New York on the 25th June, and a third on the.24th July. Two more followed in September, and a sixth in October, making in all over 6,000 men sent from this State. A cavalry regiment, in addition, was subsequently organized, and a large number of the citizens of the State enlisted in regiments from adjacent States.

The apportionment of the United States tax of August 6, 1861, due from Vermont, and amounting to $211,068, was assumed by the State.

The State election in September resulted in an overwhelming majority for the Republican and Union candidates. Frederick Holbrook, the Republican and Union candidate for Governor, received 40,000 votes, against 5,000 cast for the other two candidates, one of whom was nominated as "Union;" the Legislature was almost unanimously Union. The vote of the State at the presidential election in I860 was as follows: Lincoln, 83,808; Douglas, 6,849; Breckinridge, 218; Bell, 1,969.

WISCONSIN, one of the Northwestern States of the Union, was admitted in 1848. It lies between the parallels of 42° 30' and 47° 05' north latitude, and between 87° and 92° 50' west longitude from Greenwich. It is bounded N. by Lake Superior; N. E. by the upper peninsula of Michigan; E. by Lake Michigan; S. by Illinois; and W. by Iowa and Minnesota, from which it is in considerable part separated by the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. Its area is 53,924 square miles, and its population in 1860 was 775,873. It is divided into 58 counties. The State consists geographically of two distinct regions the elevated plateau lying north of the Wisconsin River, and maintaining a mean altitude of from 800 to 1,200 feet above the surface of Lake Superior—a country of heavy forests and high rolling lands, well watered, and with abundant lakes—a region in which the affluents of the Mississippi cross and interlock with the streams which fall into Lakes Superior and Michigan; and the southern rolling prairie, lying south of the Wisconsin River, also well watered and gemmed with lakes, but of less altitude, and admirably adapted for the cultivation of the cereals. The northern portion forms a part of the great lumber-producing region of the northwest, while the southern will long be one of the most productive wheat regions of the continent.

The following are some of the agricultural productions of the State in the year ending June, 1860, according to the census: Wheat, 15,812,625 bush.; rye, 888,534 bush.; Indian corn, 7,565,290 bush.; oats, 11,059.270 bush.; wool, 1,011,915 lbs.; potatoes, 3,848,505 bush.; barley, 678,992 bush.; cheese, 1,104,459 lbs.; butter, 13,651,053 lbs.; maple sugar, 1,584,406 lbs.; maple molasses, 83,003 gals.; sugarhouse molasses, 19,253 gals.; tobacco, 87,595 lbs.

The State has paid great attention to internal improvements. On the 1st of January, 1862, there were completed and in progress in the State, 2,223 miles of railway; of these 922 miles were open for traffic, the construction and equipment of which had cost $33,630,693. The condition of the banks of the State, at the commencement of 1861, was as follows:

Number of Banks 110 Capital Loans and Discounts. stocks. 4,mesu Other investments 1,722.779 Due by other banks. Notes of other banks. 1.162.936 Specie 272518 Circulation 4.810.175 Deposits 4.088.181 Other liabilities l,682,201

In June, 1862, there was a riot in Milwaukee, in consequence of the rejection by the bankers of that city of the notes of most of the banks of the State. The banking law of the State, which was modelled on the free banking law of New York, though modified in some particulars, permitted the lodging with the State comptroller, for the security of the issues of the banks of the State, of the bonds of the different States; and as the bonds of the Southern were generally lower than those of the Northern States, the banks had purchased largely of those as a basis for banking, and had issued their notes on those securities. The rapid redaction of the market value of these stocks, after the commencement of secession, produced an equally rapid depreciation in the value of the bank notes based upon them, and the eventual curtailment of the issues of these banks, occasioning severe losses and much bitterness of feeling on the part of the innocent holders of their notes. The riot was finally quelled by the State authorities without loss of life, but after considerable destruction of property.

Wisconsin was one of the first States of the North to declare herself unalterably for the Union. The State had gone for Lincoln in November, 1860, by 20,000 majority over all the other candidates, and the State election held the same month had resulted in a very large republican majority in both branches of the Page 757 Legislature. The Legislature convened at Madison on the 10th of January, and Governor Ramsey undoubtedly expressed the sentiments of the majority of the people of the State in saying, as he did in his Message, that "the election of Mr. Lincoln was legal, and there was no just cause of complaint from any quarter." In reference to the secession movement which had already attained formidable proportions, he said: "This is not a league of States, but a government of the people. The General Government cannot change the character of the State governments, or usurp any power not delegated; nor can any State change its character or increase its rights. The signs of the times indicate in my opinion that there may arise a contingency in the condition of the Government, under which it may become necessary to respond to the call of the National Government for men and means to sustain the integrity of the Union, and thwart the designs of men engaged in an organized treason." The response of the Legislature to this Message was such as to show their loyalty and willingness to participate in any measures which the emergency might demand; but as, during the winter, there seemed to be a strong probability of a pacification of the difficulty, no measures of defence were adopted. The Legislature adjourned April 17. On the receipt of the President's proclamation of April 15, the Governor's guard at once volunteered, and volunteer companies were formed in all parts of the State. Governor Ramsey called an extra session of the Legislature, which convened in May. In his Message, the Governor reviewed the causes of the difficulties, and recommended that immediate measures should be taken to prosecute the war with energy. He urged the immediate equipment of six regiments of volunteers, the purchase of a number of rifled cannon, and the appropriation of a million of dollars for the purposes of the war. He also suggested the necessity of a more efficient military organization, and insisted on the vital importance to Wisconsin of the free navigation of the Mississippi.

"The vast lumber and mineral interests of Wisconsin, independent of her commanding produce and stock trade, bind her fast to the north border and Northwestern States, and demand, like them, the free navigation of the Mississippi and all its tributaries, from their highest navigable waters to their mouths."

The Legislature responded fully and heartily to the recommendations of the Governor. During their session, which closed on the 27th of May, they passed a "war bill," providing for the raising of five additional regiments, besides the three already called for by the Government; and, in case these should also be needed by the United States, the raising a reserve of two more still, and, in case of farther call from the General Government, they authorized the Governor to keep constantly a reserve of two regiments beyond what were required for the national defence. For the organization and equipment of this force they made specific provision. An act "to provide for borrowing money to repel invasion and suppress insurrection," was also passed, which appointed the Governor, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer Commissioners to negotiate a loan upon State bonds, bearing six per cent, interest, of one million of dollars. Sixty per cent, of this loan was to be negotiated for specie, and the remainder for fully secured bank paper.

Two acts were passed in regard to the maintenance of families of volunteers: one appropriating from the war fund five dollars per month to each family, and the other authorizing counties, towns, cities, and villages to levy special taxes for the same purpose. The sum of $50,000 was appropriated to buy arms, and an act passed to prevent rendering aid to enemies, containing stringent provisions for the prompt punishment of offences coming within that category.

Under the stimulating influence of excitement, and provided by their enactments with the necessary means of effective service, the citizens of Wisconsin promptly enlisted in the service of the Government.

The whole number sent into the field by the State at the commencement of 1862, according to Governor Salomons, was 24,000, a number considerably in excess of the quota of the State; and it is only justice to say that no troops proved themselves more efficient in all soldierly duties than those from Wisconsin. From the difficulty of procuring arms, they were unable to enter upon the service so early as the soldiers of some of the other States, but once armed and equipped, their courage and endurance rendered them most valuable soldiers.


Source: The American Annual Cyclopaedia and Register of Important Events of the Year, 1861-1865, vols. 1-5. New York: Appleton & Co., 1868.