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Valley Spirit: April 24, 1861 Go To Page : 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |

THE WAR!
(Column 1)

Summary: Many important items of news are reported. 1. Union troops arrived in Chambersburg after being driven from Harper's Ferry in Virginia. 2. News regarding the wavering status of Maryland including the declaration of martial law in Baltimore and the death of two Massachusetts soldiers at the hands of rioters. 3. News regarding the raising of Federal troops. 4. The secession of Virginia is reported. 5. Many items relating to the opening of hostilities in Norfolk and Harper's Ferry including the seizure of Federal properties in Virginia.

Bridges Burned in Maryland
(Column 4)

Summary: Reports railroad bridges burned by Secessionists in Maryland with the object of preventing the movement of Federal Troops.

The Latest
(Column 5)

Summary: Reports movement of Massachusetts troops.

Latest from Baltimore
(Column 5)

Summary: Reports that any attack on Fort McHenry will be repelled with force that may include the shelling of Baltimore.

Harbor Police at New York
(Column 5)

Summary: Reports that the harbor police will inspect cargoes leaving New York and prevent the departure of contraband for the South.

Excitement at Boston
(Column 6)

Summary: Reports the agitated state of the citizens of Boston relative to the death of two soldiers at the hands of a Baltimore mob.

Ohio
(Column 6)

Summary: Reports that the largest public meeting ever held in Zanesville, Ohio met in support of the Government. Item also reports the raising of troops in Ohio.

War Feeling in Chambersburg
(Column 1)

Summary: Reports a large and enthusiastic meeting of Chambersburg citizens expressing support for the Union and the Government. Both Democrats and Republicans united in this sentiment. Several committees were assembled to look after local contributions to the war effort. Also the Chambersburg Artillery have been mustered into service and are preparing to leave for Washington. News from the entire state reports similar enthusiasm and the raising of troops.
(Names in announcement: Hon. Wilson Reilly, B. Henshey, Mr. Brewer, Mr. Sharp, Mr. Douglas, Mr. Rowe, Mr. McCauley, Mr. Steward, Mr. Cook, Samuel Shryock, W. Eyster, J. Allison Eyster, J. Douglas, James Nill, Ex-Sheriff Brown, I. McCauley, A. Rankin, P. HousumCapt., Lieut. John Doebler, Lieut. Mathew Gillam, Lieut. George Miles, Col. Stumbaugh, Capt. Charles Campbell)

Full Text of Article:

WAR-FEELING IN CHAMBERSBURG

GREAT UNANIMITY AND ENTHUSIASM.
Men and Money Freely Offered.
THE TOWN DECORATED WITH FLAGS.
PUBLIC MEETING OF CITIZENS.

ELOQUENT AND PATRIOTIC SPEECHES.

All Parties Uniting on a Common

Platform to Maintain the Consti-
tution and the Laws.

Chambers Artillery and Several Com-
panies from the County will leave
To-Morrow Morning for
Washington City.

PUBLIC SUPPER TO THE SOLDIERS.

Union Pole-Raising in the Pub. Square.

THE FEELING OVER THE STATE.

CHAMBERSBURG, April 18, 1861.

The Union feeling pervading this entire community is most unanimous and enthusiastic. There is but one sentiment--one purpose--one determination among men of all political parties, and that is, to stand up for the Government and sustain it in all efforts to put down rebellion and re-establish the Union.

A large and enthusiastic meeting of citizens of all political parties was held in the Court House on last evening to adopt measures necessary for the exigencies of the times.

Hon. WILSON REILLY was called to the chair and B. B. Henshey appointed Secretary.

Mr. Reilly on taking the chair made a powerful and patriotic address which was received with deafening applause. He stated his readiness to support the Government by every means at his disposal and his willingness to shoulder a musket and march to the field of battle if needs be to save the flag of his country from dishonor.

Mr. Reilly was followed by a number of other speakers, called out by the meeting, all of whom declared that forbearance was no longer patriotism and that secession must be humbled and the Union restored--peacably if we can, forcibly if we must. Among the speakers expressing these sentiments were Messrs. Brewer, Sharp, Douglas on the Democratic side, Messrs. Rowe, McCauley, Steward, Cook and others of the Republicans. The utmost harmony and good feeling prevailed at the meeting.

AN INCIDENT.--Capt. P. B. HOUSAM, commander of the Chambers Artillery, appeared in the meeting, for the purpose of stating a matter of business, and his appearance was greeted with three of the heartiest cheers we ever heard in a public assemblage.

The following committee were appointed on General Regulations, viz: D. W. Rowe, Sam'l Shryock and W. C. Eyster.

Committee on Contributions: J. Allison Eyster, J. W. Douglas and James Nill.

Committee to supply Pocket Bibles to our soldiers: Ex-Sheriff Brown, I. H. McCauley and A. N. Rankin.

HOME GUARDS.--About fifty persons then went forward and recorded their names as volunteers to form a company for home protection, and to qualify themselves in military tactics to enable them to enter the army if their services should be required.

The meeting wound up with nine cheers for the Chambers Artillery, and a like number for the speakers who had so patriotically addressed the meeting.

A complimentary supper will be given to the Chambers Artillery by our citizens this evening.

The Chambersburg Artillery, about one hundred and fifty strong, will leave to- morrow at 8 o'clock for Washington city. They are mustered into service for three months. The prayers and best wishes of all good citizens for their safe return go with them.

We are informed that a fund of several thousand dollars has already been subscribed to aid the families of the absent soldiers should they need it, during the service of the men from their homes.

The officers of the company are Capt. P. B. Housum; 1st Lieut., John Doebler; 2nd Lieut., Mathew Gillan; 3d Lieut., George Miles. Colonel Stumbaugh will aceompany the Chambers Artillery and take command of the Regiment as soon as formed.

We have just learned that Capt. Charles T. Campbell has received a commission and authorized to form a Field Battery to be attached to this regiment of volunteers.

A Union Pole about one hundred and twenty feet high, with the American Flag at the top, is being erected in the centre of the Public Square. The Diamond is now crowded with an enthusiastic mass of People.

The Chambers Artillery will parade this afternoon all the men intending to march with the company will be out.

The stars and stripes are flying from all the public houses and a great many private residences. Our people are manifesting their loyalty to the Constitution and the Government in the hour of its danger in the most patriotic manner.

We hear from all parts of the State of the rapid enlistment of troops to supply the quota of Pennsylvania, while enthusiastic meetings of the people are being held to assert the authority of the government, and aid in the vindication of the National honor.

The War Feeling in Chambersburg.
(Continued from second page.)

On Thursday last after the Union Pole was raised in the Public Square a large assemblage of ladies, on the veranda of the Franklin House, sung the "Star Spangled Banner" with fine effect, calculated to arouse the patriotism of every heart that heard those soul-stirring strains.

Messrs. Reilly, Stumbaugh, McClure, Brewer, Everett, Stinger and Welsh were called out and respectively addressed the vast multitude collected on the occasion. All spoke in strains of the loftiest patriotism and expressed their determination to stand by the Flag of their Country. The speakers were all heartily cheered during the delivery of their addresses and the greatest joy prevailed.

The Departure of the Chambers Artillery on Friday morning last was one of the most impressive and affecting scenes that has ever occurred in this place. The fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, wives and children of the volunteers, together with the entire population of the place, were collected at the Depot to bid farewell to the gallant band and witness their departure. The members of the company seemed much less affected at parting than their friends. While almost every eye in the vast throng was bathed in tears the soldiers seemed in the most joyous spirits and cheered their friends with words of consolation and hope.

This company numbered about one hundred and fifty men. Since leaving here they have been divided into two companies, Lieut. Doebler taking command of the second company formed. We are informed that Col. Stumbaugh has been elected as Colonel of the regiment, and Maj. J. T. Hoskinson appointed as Quartermaster. The company encamped at "Camp Curtin" near Harrisburg. The men were all in excellent health and good spirits.

During Saturday night the company, together with several thousand troops, were transported on the Railroad to within twenty miles of Baltimore. The bridges at this point were destroyed and the track of the road torn up and the troops could proceed no further. The latest rumor we have here is to the effect that our men will return to Harrisburg and be sent to Washington by way of Philadelphia.

Capt. C. T. Campbell's Company of Light Artillery is filling up fast. He now has nearly an hundred men enlisted. They will remain here till ordered off on duty. He has two cannon and is drilling his men actively day and night. They are quartered in the Franklin Hall.

A Rifle Company under the command of Capt. John S. Eyster has been formed and now numbers over fifty members. A large German company of able-bodied men has also been formed within a few days numbering about sixty members. The ranks of the Home Guards are filling up fast and will be divided into several companies. The Home Guards have tendered their services to the Governor to march if needed.

Our citizens have contributed very liberally to meet all expenses attendant on the war-like movements going on among us. We understand that a sum amounting to nearly ten thousand dollars has been subscribed. The County Commissioners, we learn, are ready to subscribe twenty thousand dollars to arm this county and place it in a position to aid the Government or resist invasion.

On Sunday last a very fine body of men, under command of Capt. Walker, from Fannettsburg, arrived in this place. This company numbers about sixty men, and more of their neighbors are expected here, to join them. There was a number added to their ranks while passing through Strasburg. These men are quartered in the Court House. They are under efficient officers who are drilling them for active service.

Gen. McAllen has advertised for a thousand men to fill a regiment from this county. From present indications he will have no trouble in obtaining that number and as many more. Our people are aroused and there is no difficulty here in obtaining men and money to carry on the war.

Glorious News! The Old Dominion Loyal!
(Column 2)

Summary: Reports the mistaken belief that the Virginia Convention negated the Secession Ordinance by a majority of thirteen. Item also reports that ex-Senator Bigler declared that, while opposed to the Administration on questions of policy, he is unequivocally in favor of sustaining the government.

THE WAR!
(Column 2)

Summary: Dispatches from Washington detailing items of news relating to the consummation of war. These items include the progress of mustering troops, the allocation of funds for the war effort, and news from the border states, particularly Maryland. Also reported is the mistaken assumption that Virginia will remain in the Union and muster troops for the Federal cause.

The Battle at Charleston
(Column 4)

Summary: More details regarding the engagement at Sumter.

The War Feeling in the South
(Column 5)

Summary: Items from the various Southern States report unanimity of feeling and support for the Confederacy.

The Pennsylvania Militia
(Column 6)

Summary: Reports that Pennsylvania will soon have met its troop quota and will have many to spare.

Munitions of War at Savannah
(Column 6)

Summary: Reports that a large amount of contraband is arriving at Savannah.

Stealing Copper Bolts From a Navy Yard
(Column 1)

Summary: Eight employees of the Brooklyn Naval Yard were caught stealing copper bolts from the Yard.

[No Title]
(Column 1)

Summary: Reports that the South will not arm blacks for the war effort.

Stand by your Flag
(Column 1)

Summary: Urges all citizens of every political persuasion to support the Union war effort.

Be a Soldier
(Column 1)

Summary: Encourages all men to become soldiers for the cause of the Union.

Ready, Aim, Fire
(Column 1)

Summary: Accuses the Confederacy of making war on the Union and urges everyone to uphold his or her duty as a patriotic citizen.

Full Text of Article:

"Every man in the community should set his house in order and be ready to meet any event, and assume any duty, that may be required of him in the present struggle to maintain the Constitution and Laws of his country.--The danger is at hand, even at our very doors, and before everything we hold near and dear as patriots is snatched from us we should take the stand that will encourage the timid and cheer on the brave. A formidable band of traitors have broken up the Union and made war against the government. While we considered them friends we battled for their rights in the Union, but when they determine to break up the Union and array themselves as enemies against us, we are their enemies. They are no longer of our household but enemies up in arms against us. Let us then be up and doing and crush the monster before it crushes us. Let us be watchful on every side and allow no man to slumber at his post while the flag of his country is in danger. Let the watch-word of all be--"READY, AIM, FIRE."

Organization of the Militia of the United States
(Column 2)

Summary: Presents an abstract of the laws of the United States regarding the raising of militia units.

The Spirit
(Column 2)

Summary: Responds to a letter writer to another paper who pointed out that the Spirit, in spite of its support for Breckenridge, displayed the Stars and Stripes. The Spirit asserts that it was the first paper in town to do so.

Town Meeting and Supper to our Volunteers
(Column 3)

Summary: Reports a town meeting held in Chambersburg along with a farewell supper for the volunteers who were preparing to leave for Washington.
(Names in announcement: Hon. George Chambers, Hon. Jason Nill, D.K. Wunderlich, Capt. Housum, H. McCauley, George Brewer, Lieut. Doebler, J. Sharp, Rev. Nichols)

Pole Raising
(Column 3)

Summary: Reports the raising of a flag pole in Chambersburg along with the Stars and Stripes.
(Names in announcement: W. Everett, I. McCauley)

Full Text of Article:

On Saturday afternoon last the people resident in and around "Greenwood," united in the raising of a beautiful pole, bearing high up on its slender stem our national flag, 13 stripes and 34 stars. The Pole stands 85 feet out of ground, and proudly throws abroad to the breeze an elegant banner gotten up by the Ladies of the place. His Excellency Governor George Wolff superintended the raising, and under his careful management no accident occurred to mar the pleasure of the occasion. Democrats and Republicans participated with hearty good will in hoisting up the "Flag of the Free."

Spirited addresses were delivered by W. S. Everett and I. H. McCauly Esq.,--after that the assemblage adjourned with three times three for "The Union and her Flag."

War Feeling in Chambersburg (continued from front page)
(Column 4)

Summary: More reports of activities in Chambersburg demonstrating the unanimity of feeling with regard to the support of the Union war effort.
(Names in announcement: Mr. Reilly, Mr. Stumbaugh, Mr. McClure, Mr. Brewer, Mr. Everett, Mr. Stinger, Mr. Welsh, Col. Doebler, Capt. C. Campbell, John Eyster)

Proclamation of the Governor
(Column 5)

Summary: Governor's proclamation calls the state legislature into special session.

Blockade of the Southern Ports. Proclamation from President Lincoln.
(Column 5)

Summary: Reports the proclamation of Lincoln announcing a blockade of the Southern ports.

Proclamation of the President of the Southern Confederacy--Commission of Privateers
(Column 5)

Summary: Jeff Davis's proclamation requests the services of any owners of private vessels who may wish to aid the Confederacy.

Resolutions
(Column 6)

Summary: Transcript of the resolutions adopted at the Chambersburg Town Meeting.
(Names in announcement: I. McCauley)

Our Office
(Column 1)

Summary: Reports that Samuel Stouffler, one of the heads of the Spirit office, has left with the Chambers Artillery.
(Names in announcement: Samuel Stouffler)

Court Proceedings
(Column 2)

Summary: A list of cases settled in County Court.
(Names in announcement: James Downey, Lewis Wolff, Frederick Galwis, Charles Gillam, Thaddeus Boggs, Polly Piper, D. James Dyersan, Catharine Dyersan, John Myers, David Rogers, George Brewer, James Orr, William Ruby, George Anderson, George Della, Catharine Bowman)

Pennsylvania Volunteers
(Column 3)

Summary: Reports that two companies have been raised in Chambersburg and two more will be ready in five days.

Married
(Column 4)

Summary: Married on April 18 .
(Names in announcement: Rev. Z. Colestock, Daniel Gelwiz, Annie Bechtel)

Married
(Column 3)

Summary: Married on April 18.
(Names in announcement: Katie Oaks, L. Winter Tritle, Rev. Sam Philips)

Married
(Column 3)

Summary: Married on April 18.
(Names in announcement: Jacob Fry, Mary E. Dosert, Rev. M. Snyder)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Margaret Shaffer died on April 8, aged 21 years.
(Names in announcement: Maragret Shaffer, John Shaffer, Martha Shaffer)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Died on April 19 of consumption, aged 21 years.
(Names in announcement: James McKeehan)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: John Stewart died on April 15, aged 90 years.
(Names in announcement: John Stewart)

Responses to the President's Call for Troops
(Column 1)

Summary: The governors of many Northern states responded quickly to Lincoln's call for troops. The quick response is cited as evidence that the North is ready and willing to commit itself to a war to restore the Union.

The Border Slave States
(Column 1)

Summary: Reports that it appears that Virginia will secede. However, the people of Western Virginia are pro-Union and will take up arms to resist secession. The item also reports that Union feeling in Maryland is strengthening.

Alabama
(Column 2)

Summary: Reports that the South is borrowing money to increase the army.

The War Spirit in the South
(Column 2)

Summary: Asserts that the troops are easily raised and money readily lent for the Confederate war effort.

Pennsylvania
(Column 2)

Summary: Notes that Pennsylvania's war preparations are well under way.

Massachusetts
(Column 2)

Summary: A meeting of Democrats in Boston resolved to support the Government.

Excitement at New York
(Column 2)

Summary: Reports that several New York newspapers, including the Express, the Day Book, and the Daily News, were threatened by crowds that demanded they display the Stars and Stripes outside their offices.

The Forts in North Carolina Captured
(Column 3)

Summary: Reports that the Governor of North Carolina has seized all the Federal Forts in that state.