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Valley Spirit: April 15, 1863 Go To Page : 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

The True Conditions of American Loyalty
(Column 2)

Summary: Reprints an address given by Hon. George T. Curtis to the Democratic Union Association of New York City. He starts by noting the tactic of Republicans to label Democrats as disloyal, and he proposes to demonstrate the true meaning of loyalty, not the partisan definition. Curtis argues, among other things, that loyalty also encompasses supporting the right of states to exercise the powers reserved to them under the Constitution, and that a total supremacy of national power is nowhere to be found in the Constitution. The abolitionists have constructed a false test of loyalty to a form of national rule not envisioned by the framers, he claims. He concludes by urging his listeners to act to prevent the dismemberment of the country by reversing the course of the current administration.

Negro Immigration
(Column 1)

Summary: The editors argue that Pennsylvania should prohibit the immigration of free blacks, claiming that the government would do blacks an injustice by allowing them to come to the state and sink into squalor. Instead, the editors assert, the freed slaves should stay in the South.

Full Text of Article:

A subject which is now exciting considerable discussion in the Northern Border States, and which must continue to do so until it is definitely settled, is the question of negro immigration. The liberated slaves are finding their way into these States by thousands, and it is rapidly becoming the great political and social problem of the day what to do with them. Illinois has already decided that she will admit no more of them within her borders, and Ohio and Indiana are about to follow her example. Should all the Western Border States adopt the same policy, leaving only the one avenue open to the free States, it will be high time for Pennsylvania to consider what course philanthropy and self interest dictate that she should pursue. Will it be for the interest either of her citizens or of these poor unfortunates themselves, that they should be induced to settle in our midst? Does true philanthropy dictate that the slaves should be encouraged to leave their present condition, in the vain hope of finding a better; or do natural instinct, the invaluable lessons of history and the bitter teachings of experience tell us there is an impassible barrier, a great physical difference, between the races; so great that they can never exist on terms of equality, either in their political or social privileges; that the one is incapable of appreciating the blessings or of applying the benefits of liberty, while the other, by its superior intelligence, energy and character, and the prejudice always entertained against subordinates and inferiors, is driven inevitably to injustice and oppression. Said Mr. Lincoln to a committee of negroes who waited upon him, in last August: "You and we are difference races. We have between us a broader difference than exists between any other two races. Whether it is right or wrong I need not discuss, but this physical difference as [sic] a great disadvantage to us both, as I think. Even when you cease to be slaves you are far from being placed on an equality with the whites. On this broad continent not a single man of your race is made the equal of a single man of ours. Go where you are treated the best, and the ban is still upon you. I do not propose to discuss this, but to present it as a fact with which we have to deal." What, then, is the boasted liberty to which the false philanthropy of the North invites the slave? What but roofless, crowded, unhealthy hovels, fireless chimney-places, and a life of indolence, disease and crime? Let him who doubts the picture look at the wretchedness of those that, during the last two years, have come to us to find that liberty of which they have heard so much from the pulpit and the press of the North. You say they have found liberty--true, but they have also found starvation and rags. So great has been their destitution that, during the past winter, appeal after appeal has been made, individually and in our churches, to the benevolent, for their relief. Verily, freedom has proved but an empty name to many of them. Liberty is an enchanting word, but it won't find work for us, or buy us bread, or pay our rent, or get us clothes, or build us fires wherewithal to warm our shivering limbs. No, let us cast from our minds the fallacy that philanthropy and charity urge us to encourage the negroes of the South to come amongst us--to come forsooth, that they may be elevated! They but come to their everlasting degradation. Let us discourage, and if necessary forbid, their coming. The decree may sound harsh and inhuman, but it is for their good and our own; and, if natural and physical developments go for any thing in this world, it is in accordance with the inscrutable decree of the Almighty, who, for some wise purpose of his own, has set this great, natural, physical, constitutional difference between the races. The difference does exist; it must be dealt with as an existing fact; and he who complains of it, simply brings the charge of injustice or want of wisdom against the creator.

The Blood-thirsty Knight
(Column 2)

Summary: The editors reprint a portion of a letter from the Transcript's army correspondent, in which the writer assails local "copperheads." The editors reveal that the writer's name is William Tell Barnitz, a resident of Waynesboro who became known as a "blatant and slanderous abolitionist," and they hint that he has a criminal background in his native state of Texas. They also accuse Barnitz of being one of the first to flee town when the Confederate cavalry invaded, and the last to return, and they also impugn his bravery in his subsequent military service.
(Names in announcement: William Tell Barnitz)

Full Text of Article:

--A Tale of the Rebellion--Chapter the First. The Transcript has an army correspondent who writes from Newberee, over the signature "W.T.B." and who is quite a character in his own little way. As a "specimen brick" of his elaborate productions, we give a small extract from his last letter:

How are you, Copperheads? I really do hope that these few lines may find you in the highly gratifying condition of a Jackass turned out to die, Charitable! I guess it is charitable! You ought to be strung up to the telegraph poles along the Rail Road, with a board on your backs inscribed sic semper traitoribus! so that the world might see that we really did intend to annihilate the hybrids hatching in loyal nests. Yes, I really do wish that you were under the sod, so that the carbonic acid gas, and the vast, vast amount of heavy carburetted [sic] hydrogen of gas of which you are mostly composed, might be reproduced in pork--I doubt whether it would make a good beef--and somehow transmitted to Dixie, to feed your brethren in arms against this hated Republic. But just here, I'm reminded, that like produces like, and hence, the army of Jeff., having assimilated the bacon, would become refractory and profoundly cowardly; yes, yes its all right!--we would soon finish things then! I have found, wherever I have traveled, that the lowest, meanest, dirtiest, draggle tailed, whisky drinking, card-playing, horse-racing, hell-defying, in short, what might be expected as denizens of the purlieus of Hell, are Copperheads. Reader, examine the characters around you; how many really good, respectable citizens do you find arrayed against their country, blating against Abolitionists, just as the "Rebs" do--and preaching Union and peace, just as hypocrit[e]s cry heaven, with hell in their bosoms!"

We deem it unnecessary to refer to style or spirit of this communication--it is a sufficient answer unto itself; but it seems unfair to let this valiant knight, who is for pledging his gauntlet to such great things, go down to posterity "unwept, unhonored and unsung;" and we will therefore attempt a brief sketch of his life and character. His full maiden name is William Tell Barnitz. The place of his birth is, we learn, unknown, even to himself, although it is highly probable he was present on that eventful occasion. The early portion of his life was spent in Texas, which State he very unceremoniously left, between two days, for reasons best known to himself. He halted in his flight at Waynesboro', in this county, where he soon became known as a blatant and slanderous abolitionist, and wrote dirty, contemptible articles in the Village Record assailing and villifying [sic] many of the oldest and most highly respected inhabitants of that vicinity. Extravagant as were his professions of patriotism and bravery, he was the very first in the town to "skedaddle" when the rebels entered Maryland, and the very last to come back, after the enemy had been driven back into Virginia. Chivalric as he always pretended to be, he could never be induced to enlist in defence of his country, and would not now be in the army had he not been drafted and found himself unable to procure a substitute. His professions of "unconditional loyalty," as the terms are at present understood, soon secured for him a Captain's shoulder straps, and he is now making good his chances for promotion, by writing himself down an ass--an all-important qualification for office under the present dynasty. In his graphic account of the terrific charge across White Oak river into some deserted rebel entrenchments, the chivalrous knight forgets one important item, which we are enabled to furnish from one of our "army specials," always "on the spot." While crossing this river, after the scouts had reported no enemy in sight, the Captain suddenly became inspired with ecstatic valor, and, brandishing his bloodless sword in the air, wanted immediately to cut several hundred rebel throats in cold blood. But his pride was destined to have a fall; for, like his illustrious prototype, Don Quixote, when he attacked the windmills, his sword, striking the bridge, flew from his grasp, and sunk into the river, amidst the jeers and the hootings of all who saw the knight's mishap. "And, there," says our informant, "it is yet, and it is a matter of very little importance whether he ever gets it or not; for he would be the last man to use it, even if he does get into a pinch, which, in my opinion, he will take very good care not to." So much for William Tell Barnitz. Our limited space forbids a more extended notice. We have a few facts in reserve; and have simply intended in this article to show what manner of man he is who wants all the "Copperheads" "strung up to the telegraph poles along the rail road." In all sincerity we suggest to the Captain to modify his views before he returns to Franklin county, or during one of his valiant sallies, he may find a considerable quantity of copperhead boot-leather inserted somewheres about the lower end of his spinal column. We are not sufficiently classical, dear Captain, to imitate your chaste style, but allow us to make a bungle of the French for farewell, and say overtheriver.

Is This Treason?
(Column 3)

Summary: The editors ask a series of rhetorical questions about loyalty, including: is it treasonous to have doubted the South's capitulation in the first three months of the war? Is it treasonous to have doubted that a force of 75,000 could subdue them? Is it treasonous to protest the suspension of habeas corpus? Is it treasonous to denounce corruption and fraud in the government? Or to think that the emancipation proclamation is unwise and unconstitutional? Or to argue that the Union can be saved only by a combination of the olive branch and the sword? If that is treason, they conclude, then Democrats are treasonous. However, they argue, the party is not disloyal. Rather, they say, these Democratic policies indicate "the only sure path to a safe and honorable peace."

Who Gives Aid and Comfort to the Rebellion?
(Column 4)

Summary: The editors claim, by citing to several Confederate newspapers, that the rebels fear Democrats more than they do Republicans--that the Republicans may be willing to negotiate a separation, while the Democrats will force a Union no matter what.

Origin of Article: Mobile (Alabama) Register, Richmond Enquirer

Editorial Comment: "They hold out the right hand of fellowship to their Abolition brethren of the North, for they both now stand on the same platform."

Programme of Exercises
(Column 7)

Summary: The Teacher's Association of Franklin County will meet on Wednesday, May 20, to engage in the following program: 1. Orthography and Reading--J. R. Gaff, D. S. McFadden, William Stine; 2. Penmanship--J. H. Montgomery, J. M. Philips, J. L. Dewald; 3. Oral Arithmetic--T. M. Richards, J. B. Eckerman, G. B. Miller, J. H. McMullin, J. W. Coble; 4. Written Arithmetic--Jos. Eckert, A. B. Wingert, P. M. Shoemaker, A. McElwain; 5. Geography--S. D. Stach, J. L. P. Deatrich, G. W. Betz, J. S. McElwain; 6. English Grammar--J. M. Gelwix, J. W. Kuhn, Jacob Cook, H. Omwake, A. K. Weir; 7. Algebra--C. B. Wolf, J. Smith, J. Eckhart, H. S. Shade, W. Owen; 8. Mensuration--J. H. Yost, A. McElwain, W. H. Hockenbery; 9. Philosophy--P. M. Shoemaker, T. M. Richards; 10. Physiology--S. H. Eby, F. Noble, W. Owen; 11. Essays--Misses Annie M. Beal, Sarah Andrews, Sarah F. Leidy, K. A. Wilson, Mrs. M. J. Stoner, Messrs. S. D. Stach, A. B. Wingert, J. S. McElwain; 12. Addresses--P. M. Shoemaker, J. R. Gaff. The executive committee of A. McElwain, S. D. Stach, J.W. Kuhn, J. M. Andrews, and J. M. Gelwix urges a full attendance of all the teachers in the county.
(Names in announcement: Miss Sarah Andrews, Miss Annie M. Beal, G. W. Betz, J. W. Coble, Jacob Cook, J. L. P. Deatrich, J. L. Dewald, S. H. Eby, J. B. Eckerman, Joseph Eckert, J. Eckhart, J. R. Gaff, J. M. Gelwix, W. H. Hockenberry, J. W. Kuhn, Miss Sarah F. Leidy, A. McElwain, J. S. McElwain, D. S. McFadden, J. H. McMullin, G. B. Miller, J. H. Montgomery, F. Noble, H. Omwake, W. Owen, J. M. Philips, T. M. Richards, H. S. Shade, P. M. Shoemaker, J. Smith, S. D. Stach, William Stine, Mrs. M. J. Stoner, A. K. Wier, Miss K. A. Wilson, A. B. Wingert, C. B. Wolf, J. H. Yost)

Old Citizen Deceased
(Column 7)

Summary: Joseph Nail, a veteran of the war of 1812, died at his residence near Waynesboro last Sunday at an advanced age. He was wounded during the "memorable campaign" at the battle of Lake Erie. They also note the death of John Reed at Kurtz's Hotel last Wednesday, after a few days illness. Reed was also of an advanced age.
(Names in announcement: Joseph Nail, James Reed)

Origin of Article: Waynesboro Village Record

Appointment
(Column 1)

Summary: The editors note the appointment of the area's last Congressman, Edward McPherson, as Deputy Commissioner of Internal Revenue.
(Names in announcement: Edward McPherson)

Deceased
(Column 1)

Summary: Private Jere McCulloch, of Company C, 126th Penn. Volunteers, died at the regimental hospital at Falmouth on March 31, after "a severe, painful and protracted illness."
(Names in announcement: Private Jere McCulloch)

Murder Trial
(Column 1)

Summary: The editors note the murder trial of John Forney in Fulton County, for killing Lt. Ford of the Provost Guards, was continued last week because the Commonwealth was not ready to proceed with trial. The indictments against the sheriff and prothonotary as accessories were also held over.

At Home
(Column 1)

Summary: Second Lieut. James Aughinbaugh, of the 11th Penn. Cavalry, came home last week on a few days furlough. According to the Spirit, "Although the Lieutenant has seen some very rough service, he looks well and still swears by 'Little Mac.'" William Peiffer of the Anderson Troupe has also returned home. He was a member of the Body Guard, which was mustered out of service a week or so since.
(Names in announcement: 2nd Lieut. James Aughinbaugh, William Peiffer)

Sanford is Coming
(Column 1)

Summary: Sanford's "inimitable Ethiopian Opera Troupe" will be performing at Franklin Hall on Wednesday evening. In these troubled times, say the editors, it is good to laugh when you can find anything humorous.

Full Text of Article:

We take pleasure in making the welcome announcement that Sanford's inimitable Ethiopian opera Troupe will give one of their unique and characteristic performances, in Franklin Hall, on this (Wednesday) evening. In these dull and gloomy times, it is well to laugh when we can find any thing to laugh at, and he who goes to Sanford's need not want an opportunity, for "Sam" is to behere [sic] himself.

Meeting of the Democratic County Committee
(Column 1)

Summary: A meeting of the Democratic County Committee was held at the Hotel of Mrs. Montgomery on April 13. William Orr of Orrstown was called as the chair and E. J. Small of Quincy was made Secretary. George M. Stenger, Esq., of Chambersburg was elected as delegate to the Democratic State Convention on June 17.
(Names in announcement: William Orr, E. J. Small, George StengerEsq.)

Altered Greenbacks
(Column 1)

Summary: Counterfeiters are beginning to alter two-dollar greenbacks into fifties. When compared, the difference is obvious. While the bills have the same engraving in the center, the head is between the words "United" and "States" on the fifties, whereas on the twos the words are above the engraving. The genuine fifty dollar notes are covered on the back with the number 50. One person has been caught using them, and those people who deal in fifties are warned to be on the look out.

Rev. W. T. Beatty
(Column 2)

Summary: Rev. W. T. Beatty has accepted a call to the First Presbyterian Church in New Brunswick, New Jersey, pending the action of the Carlisle Presbytery.
(Names in announcement: Rev. W. T. Beatty)

Origin of Article: Pilot

Married
(Column 3)

Summary: Daniel Rosenberger and Rosanna Rosenberger, both of Franklin County, were married on March 26 at the home of the bride's father.
(Names in announcement: S. Young, Daniel Rosenberger, Rosanna Rosenberger)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Mrs. Catharine Hellman died on April 9 at the home of her son-in-law, William Krome, in Funkstown, aged 81 years, 1 month and 26 days.
(Names in announcement: William Krome, Mrs. Catharine Hellman)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Zachariah Robinson died on April 9 in Funkstown, aged 5 years, 9 months and 17 days.
(Names in announcement: Zachariah Robinson)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Lewis Eldridge Dechert, son of Daniel and Laura P. Dechert, died in Hagerstown, Maryland on April 8, aged 4 years, 1 month and 26 days.
(Names in announcement: Lewis Eldridge Dechert, Daniel Dechert, Laura P. Dechert)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Jacob Hege died near Marion on April 1, aged 83 years and 1 month.
(Names in announcement: Jacob Hege)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Edward R. Grove, son of E. C. and Elmira Grove, died on April 12 of diphtheria, aged 3 years, 7 months and 12 days.
(Names in announcement: Edward R. Grove, E. C. Grove, Elmira Grove)

Died
(Column 3)

Summary: Mrs. Elizabeth Biggs died on April 8 in Chambersburg, at the age of 71.
(Names in announcement: Mrs. Elizabeth Biggs)

Holders of Currency
(Column 4)

Summary: The treasurer requests that holders of the currency of the Borough of Chambersburg redeem it with the treasurer.
(Names in announcement: D. Fahnestock)

County Treasurer
(Column 4)

Summary: Charles W. Rhodes declares himself, "at the earnest solicitation of many friends," a candidate for the Democratic nomination for County Treasurer.
(Names in announcement: Charles W. Rhodes)

County Treasurer
(Column 4)

Summary: Jacob C. Secrist announces his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for County Treasurer.
(Names in announcement: Jacob C. Secrist)

County Treasurer
(Column 4)

Summary: William Cline announces his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for County Treasurer.
(Names in announcement: William Cline)

Register and Recorder
(Column 5)

Summary: Capt. Samuel R. McKesson declares his candidacy for the Democratic nomination for the office of Register and Recorder of Franklin County.
(Names in announcement: Capt. Samuel R. McKesson)

Six Cents Reward
(Column 5)

Summary: Richard Simpson, a "bound boy" of Adam Piper's, ran away from him in Concord Township on April 11. All persons are cautioned not to harbor him, as Piper will be responsible for no debts incurred by him.
(Names in announcement: Adam Piper, Richard Simpson)

Prothonotary
(Column 6)

Summary: James P. McClintock declares himself a candidate for the Democratic nomination for prothonotary of the Courts of Franklin County.
(Names in announcement: James P. McClintock)