mmm, History of Mississippi CIVIL GOVERNMENT. COMPILED AND ARRANGED FOR THE USE OF THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF MISSISSIPPI. BY / MARY V. DUVAL, Author of Student's History of Mississippi. With an Appendix Containing the Constitution of Mississippi, Adopted November i, 1890. 3^ ' IvOUISVILIvE, KY. Courier-Journal Job Printing Company. I8Q2. *■ I COPYRIGHTED, 1892. ILLUSTRATED, PRINTED AND BOUND BY THE COURIER-JOURNAL JOB PRINTING COMPANY, LOUISVILLE, TABLE OF CONTENTS. INTRODUCTORY. PAGE. CHAPTER I. — 1538. — De Soto and his men — Discovery of the Mississippi river — Death of De Soto — Settlement at Biloxi • 3 CHAPTER II. — 1700-1718. — Iberville and Tonti among the Indians — War between the Choctaws and Chickasaws — Death of Iberville — Colony transferred to Crozat — Slave trade inaug- urated 11 CHAPTER III.— 1718-1732. — War with the Chickasaws — Missis- sippi bubble — Second Natchez war — Massacre of the French at Fort Rosalie — Defeat and flight of the Natchez 19 CHAPTER I V. — 1732-1780. — Bienville recalled — Expedition against the Chickasaws — Defeat of Bienville — Second expedition against the Chickasaws — Louisiana presented to the King of Spain — Colony passes into the hands of the English — Hostilities between the Spanish and British 28 CHAPTER V. — 1781-1795. — Natchez and the surrounding country^ — Trouble between the British sympathizers and the Span- iards — Slavery introduced into the French colonies — Bourbon county ; acts of the Georgia Legislature 36 CHAPTER VI. — 1 795-1 798. — Boundary commissioners — Guion's-'' descent of the Mississippi river— Creation of Mississippi -' Territory 42 CHAPTER VII.— 1798-1802.— Winthrop Sargent— Territorial rep- resentatives — Governor Claiborne . 46 CHAPTER VIII. — i 802-1804.— Georgia's cession to the United States — Treaty with the Indians 51 CHAPTER IX. — 1804-1809. — Sixteenth section — Burr's secret expe- dition—Pioneer life in Mississippi 55 CHAPTER X. — 1809-1813. — David Holmes, Governor — Trouble with the Spaniards — Battle of Burnt Corn Creek — Massa- cre at Fort Mims 60 CHAPTER XL — 1813-1817. — The Creek war— Division of the territory and formation of State government— Physical features 66 viii TABLE OF CONTENTS. PAGE. CHAPTER XII. — 1817-1819. — First Constitutional Convention- David Holmes, the first Governor of the State — George Poindexter, the second Governor of the State 72 CHAPTER XIII.—1820-1821.— Treaty with the Choctaws— Educa- tion — Seat of government 77 CHAPTER XIV.— 1821-1825.— Natchez and Vicksburg— Walter Leake, Governor — David Holmes — Indian titles 82 CHAPTER XV.— 1825-1829.— Gerard Brandon— Grand Council of the Chickasaws — Indian chaiacteristics 89 CHAPTER XVI.— 1829-1831.— Internal improvement — Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek— Treaty with the Chickasaws ... 93 CHAPTER XVII.— 1831-33-35.— Robert J. Walker, A. M. Scott- Death of Governor Holmes — Removal of funds from United States Bank 103 CHAPTER XVIII— 1833-1836.— Leasing of the sixteenth section— The Revised Constitution — Organization of counties from Chickasaw cession 108 CHAPTER XIX.— 1837-1839. — Governor McNutt— Prentiss and Word — " Flush times" in Mississippi — McNutt re-elected - 113 CHAPTER XX.— 1839-1845.— Albert G. Brown and Jacob Thomp- son elected to Congress — Location of State University — Governor Tucker's election — Beginning of the public career of Jefferson Davis 119 CHAPTER XXI.— 184 5-1848.— War with Mexico — Gallantry of Mississippi troops — Earl Van Dorn — Treaty of peace with Mexico 126 CHAPTER XXII.— 1848-1850. — Chickasaw school lands— Gov- ernor Quitman — Material prosperity of 1850 133 CHAPTER XXIII.— 1850-1852 — Arrest of Governor Quitman ; his resignation — Davis and Foote — John J. McRae 140 CHAPTER XXIV.— 1852-1856.— The slavery question— Governor McRae renominated 145 CHAPTER XXV.— 1857-1858.— McWillie elected Governor— La- mar's maiden speech in the House of Representatives — Jacob Thompson in Buchanan's Cabinet 150 CHAPTER XXVI.— 1859-1860 — Death of ex-Governor Quitman— Nomination of Pettus, the "war Governor" — National Democratic Convention at Charleston 155 TABLE OF CONTENTS. j x PAGE. CHAPTER XXVII — i86o.-Formation of the Constitutional Union party ; Richmond and Baltimore Conventions — Republican party at Chicago — Secession Convention in Jackson . . -159 CHAPTER XXVIII. — 1861. — Commissioners sent to the Legisla- tures of the different Southern States — Jefferson Davis, Major-General of State troops — Organization of Confeder- ate Government — Fall of Fort Sumter 163 CHAPTER XXIX.—1861. — Removal of seat of Confederacy to Richmond— Battle of Manassas ; death of Colonel Burt— Re-election of Pettus— Patriotism in State University ... 167 CHAPTER XXX.— 1862. —First great reverse to Confederacy- Battle of Shiloh— " Ram " Arkansas 173 CHAPTER XXXI.— 1862.— Brilliant cavalry exploit of Van Dorn — Burning of cotton by Confederates — Siege of Vicksburg — Occupation of Jackson by Federals — Battle of Baker's Creek — Fall of Vicksburg and Port Hudson 177 CHAPTER XXXII.— 1863.— Governor Clarke— Legislature in Col- umbus — Resolutions endorsing President Davis 188 CHAPTER XXXIIL— 1864— A dying Confederacy— Gen. Stephen D. Lee, Major-General Walthall — Lee's retreat to Appomat- tox — Lee's surrender — Johnston's and Taylor's surrender . 193 CHAPTER XXXIV.— 1865.— Arrest of Governor Clarke— Martial law in Mississippi ; Governor Sharkey's appointment — Election of Humphreys — The Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments ; the Military Reconstruction Law — Constitu- tional Convention 204 CHAPTER XXXV .— 1868.— Re-election of Governor Humphreys- Removal of Humphreys and appointment of Ames — Election of 1869 — Governor Alcorn — State Schools 212 CHAPTER XXXVI.—1871. — Governor Alcorn in United States Senate ; Governor Powers — Ames and his colleagues • • . 219 CHAPTER XXX VI I. — 1875.— General Convention of Tax-payers — Democratic Conservative party — Meeting of Legislature of 1876 — Impeachment of Ames — Resignation of Ames ■ ■ • 222 CHAPTER XXXVIII .— 1876.— Governor Stone— Centennial Exhi- bition — General J. R. Chalmers — Legislature of 1877 — La- mar elected to the United States Senate 228 CHAPTER XXXIX.— 1880.— Agricultural and Mechanical College — Public Schools — General George in the United States x TABLE OF CONTENTS. PAGE. Senate — Nomination of General Lowry — Assassination of Garfield — Overflow of Mississippi river — State University opened to women 235 CHAPTER XL.— 1884.— Bill for establishment of Industrial Insti- tute and College 242 CHAPTER X L I. —1 884-1 885.— National Democratic Convention- Cotton Exposition at New Orleans — General Walthall— Platform of the Democratic Conservative party — Opening of the Industrial Institute and College 246 CHAPTER XLII.—1886-1887.— Legislature of 1886— Local Option Law— W. C. T. U., of Mississippi— Public School System— The President's Southern Tour — Death of Judge Ellet — Farewell of Jefferson Davis 252 CHAPTER XLIII— 1888-1890 — Farmers' Alliance— National Presi- dential Election — Death of Jefferson Davis — John M. Stone elected Governor 258 CHAPTER XLIV.— 1890.— Geographical outline 263 CHAPTER XLV— 1890-1892.— Population of Mississippi— Position of the State — Some provisions of the Constitution of 1868 — Educational 2 ^8 CHAPTER XL VI.— 1890-1892. — New Constitution — Statistics- Representatives in Congress 273 CHAPTER XL VI I.— Cities and towns of M.issississi— List of Governors— Table of Counties • 279 INTRODUCTORY. To the Teachers and Patrons of the Public Schools of Mississippi : The Legislature of the State of Mississippi, session of 1892, having made the use of text-books on the History of Mississippi and Civil Government compulsory in the public schools of the State, this book, comprising the two studies, has been carefully prepared to meet the popular demand. After many years' experience as a teacher in the public schools of the State, and as author of the " Students' History of Mississippi," the wisdom of the Legislature in making the above requirement is fully impressed on my mind. I claim that the new work, " The History of Missis- sippi and Civil Government," has many points of superiority over the old ; and with the hope that the same may be recog- nized by my fellow-teachers and friends, I confidently submit it to their consideration. Mary V. Duval. SARDIS, MISS., August, 1892. INTRODUCTORY TO FIRST EDITION. On reviewing the " Student's History of Mississippi," I find the narrative entertaining from first to last, and replete with just such facts as should be presented to every child in the State. Such a work will be invaluable in training our children to become patriotic citizens. The merits of the work ought to commend it to general favor. J. R. PRESTON, Superintendent of Public Education, State of {Mississippi. I have examined the "Student's History of Mississippi," and endorse it without qualification. We can no longer trust the his- tory of our State to tradition. We must have authentic records if we wish to hand down to our children, unimpaired, the lives and labors of those who founded and sustained our great Commonwealth. This History has been carefully prepared from the most reliable sources, and merits a hearty recognition from the people of Mississippi. It has been adopted as a Text-Book by the public schools of Panola county, and I earnestly recommend its adoption into the schools of all other counties of the State. J. A. RAINWATER, Superintendent of Public Education, Panola county, {Mississippi. HISTORY OF Mississippi and Giiril Government, CHAPTER I. i. That vast region of country, known now as the " Mis- sissippi Valley," was for ages unknown to any save its aboriginal inhabitants, and silence deep and profound, so far as civilized men are concerned, brooded over a region now the fairest, most populous and most fertile, perhaps, in America. 2. In 1538, Hernando De Soto, a brave but bigoted Span- ish soldier, who had assisted Pizarro in his conquest of Peru, received from the Court of Spain a commission authorizing him to invade Florida, a Spanish possession in the New World. The name " Florida " had been given to a vast and almost unexplored region in the south-eastern portion of North America by Juan Ponce de Leon, an enthusiastic discoverer, likewise in the service of Spain. Ponce de Leon, whose name will be forever linked with that of the " Flowery Land," first set foot on the shores of that beautiful peninsular in 15 12, near the spot where St. Augustine, the oldest and most historic town in the United States, now stands. In 1 512, he commenced his famous search through the (3) 4 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. interior for the " Fountain of Eternal Youth." His invasion of their country was resented by the Indians, who surprised him while encamped in a swamp, killed most of his men and routed the remainder. De Leon, himself mortally wounded, was carried to Cuba by a few faithful soldiers, where he died in 1521. 3. De Soto's force consisted of nine hundred and fifty men. With these he landed at Tampa Bay in May, 1539, much tojthe astonishment of the natives, who flocked to the shell-covered beach to witness the disembarkation. The mail-clad knights, the cross-bow men, and the ponderous artillery excited their deepest wonder and reverence, and the intrepid DeSoto found very little difficulty in subduing them entirely to his own ends. One of the methods used by him was to persuade the ignorant and superstitious savages that he and his followers were the "Children of the Sun," and, as such, entitled to their profound reverence, Turning first to the north, then to the west, De Soto traveled through Georgia and entered Alabama. Where Mobile now stands a battle between the Spaniards and Indians was fought, the natives having by this time discov- ered the true character of the invaders of their soil. The thirst of the Spaniards for blood and gold seemed insa- tiable, and the sad story of Peru under Pizarro, and of Mexico under Cortez, was repeated on the soil of the Gulf States of America. The natives were, of course, ill-fitted to contend with the iron-hearted, steel-clad followers of DeSoto, but, fighting as they did with the energy of despair, turned many of the Spanish victories into scenes of mourning for the dead and dying, with whom the battle-fields were strewn. 4. A dreadful battle between the Spaniards and natives was fought on the banks of the "Black Warrior," after which DeSoto left the limits of the present State of Alabama, and entered what is now Mississippi, probably crossing the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 6 Tombigbee river at the identical spot where the beautiful city of Columbus now stands. The country was densely populated with Indians, who were much more friendly and hospitable toward De Soto than those nearer the seacoast had been. Bitterly did they repent their extended hospitality and welcome. 5. De Soto passed the greater part of the winter of 1540 with the Chickasaws, another friendly though brave and warlike tribe. On making preparations for departure in the spring of 1 541, he requited their hospitality by demanding of their chief a large number of men to transport his bag- gage and stores. Indignant at this demand upon him for servile labor, as well as at the proof of ingratitude shown him, the haughty Chickasaw made a furious night-attack upon De Soto's camp, surprising his troops with showers of blazing arrows which quickly enveloped their quarters in flames. Recovering quickly from their surprise, however, the trained bands of De Soto, with their captain in front, fought their way out of the burning camp, though forced to leave their baggage and a large number of hogs and horses to perish in the flames. Some of the bravest of the foreign- ers fell in the conflict, while the loss of the poor betrayed natives was very heavy indeed. 6. De Soto never recovered from this attack of the Indians. His force was greatly reduced in number, his supplies were cut off, and his followers greatly discouraged by the com- bined attacks of sickness and the natives. His next course was in a north-westerly direction, and in May, 1541, the discovery which has immortalized his name was made. Standing on the Chickasaw Bluff, where the city of Mem- phis, Tennessee, now stands, he and his proud, though worn and wearied followers, gazed in silent admiration at the tawny waters of the great river rolling below. Inquiring of the Indians, who gazed in equal surprise and admiration at their pale-faced visitors, the name of the majestic river, they 6 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. were told that it was the " Mazzezeppe," which in their language meant " Father of Waters." De Soto called it the Mississippi, and thus our grand inland stream was christened. 7. De Soto died May 21, 1542, in a rude encampment on the banks of the great river he had been the first white man to gaze upon. To prevent his body falling into the hands of the Indians, his men carried it at night to the middle of the river, and loading it with stones, deposited it beneath the waters of the Mississippi. Only a few of De Soto's band survived to reach Cuba. Their great leader gone, they quarreled among themselves, broke up into small bands, and most of them perished miserably by sickness or by the attacks of the Indians. 8. Not until one hundred and thirty-one years had passed from the time of De Soto's lonely midnight burial did the foot of European press the wilderness that extended down on either side to the banks of the Mississippi. In 1673, Mar- quette, a devoted missionary of the order of Jesuits, and Joliet, an enterprising trader, descended the river from the mouth of the Wisconsin to the mouth of the Arkansas. Five years afterward, the courtly de La Salle, who has been named the " Prince of Explorers," projected his voyage down the great inland stream. La Salle, like Marquette and Joliet, was a native of France, and was therefore com- pelled, before making this voyage, to return to the mother country for official sanction. On his return to America he brought with him Chevalier de Tonti, a one-armed veteran, the most romantic figure in all our history, whose devotion and fidelity to Robert de La Salle reads like a chapter out of some classic legend. From Canada, where the French Catholics had already obtained a strong foothold, the two friends were accompanied by Father Zenobia, a devout Jesuit, the three together making the long and perilous de- scent to the mouth of the Mississippi river. 9. La Salle found that the Indian tribes along the banks HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 7 of the Lower Mississippi were all sun worshipers. He was greatly interested in their evangelization, and Father Zen- obia labored zealously to convert them to the religion of the Cross. The effect of the patient teachings of these devoted missionaries still lingers among the half-breeds that are scat- tered along the lower coast regions and around the mouth of the Mississippi. After visiting this region, known now as the " Delta," both La Salle and Father Zenobia returned to France to report the results of the expedition. The Chevalier de Tonti remained in America, having been placed in command of Fort St. Louis, one of the most important of the French posts on the Illinois. io. La Salle returned to America in 1685 for the purpose of planting a colony on the Mississippi. Provided with two ships, the" Joli " and the " Amiable," the brig La Belle and the ketch St. Francis, he set out with a colony of two hun- dred and fifty loyal French to occupy the country he had explored for his beloved France. One of the vessels, being a slow sailer, was captured by the Spaniards. The remain- ing vessels safely entered the Gulf of Mexico, and steering to the north-west, reached the coast some distance to the west of their intended destination. An exploring party was sent on land, journeyed along the coast and at last found a harbor where ships could anchor in safety. Two of the vessels entered the harbor, but the third struck a sand-bar and soon went to pieces. The bay entered by La Salle is now known as Matagorda. After the colonists had landed, La Salle thinking them safely provided for, left them for the purpose of seeking the far-away French forts on the Illinois. The first expedition was unsuccessful, and he returned to find the colonists in an almost desperate condition, having been rendered so by the desertion of Beaujeu with the ship Joli and all the provisions she carried on board. The La Belle had also been wrecked 8 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. during his absence, and the forlorn colonists ascended a river upon the banks of which were innumerable buffalo. Mis- taking these for cattle, they named the river Les. Caches, landed and built Fort St. Louis, 1686. 11. Undeterred by this strange chapter of misfortunes, La Salle endeavored to comfort the disheartened colonists and a second time set out to find rescue from the Illinois posts for their despairing countrymen. It is melancholy to relate that while on this mission of mercy the " Prince of Explorers " was treacherously murdered by one of his own followers, having been shot in the back in revenge for some real or fancied wrong. 12. In 1699, the attempt to plant a French colony near the mouth of the Mississippi was successfully made by De Iberville, a gallant soldier who had distinguished himself in the wars between France and Great Britain. With sev- eral vessels placed under his command by the Government of France, Iberville, after a fair voyage across the Atlantic, anchored on the 1st of February, 1699, m the beautiful and commodious harbor of Ship Island. Accompanied by a strong force, Iberville left his ships and proceeded to explore the surrounding country in the hope of finding a suitable place for a settlement. With two of their ships' boats and some canoes obtained from the wondering Indians, they entered the Mississippi river March 2, 1699. The Indians proved to be kind and hospitable, and the French pursued the invariable policy practiced by their gov- ernment of returning their kindness by conciliation and respect. Some of the presents given the chiefs by La Salle and Tonti were proudly exhibited to Iberville and his followers. 13. The beautiful land-locked bay of Biloxi, north of Ship Island, was chosen by De Iberville as the most suitable place for the building of his fort and the establishment of his colony. A fort was built of wood and was mounted with HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 9 fifty-four pieces of cannon. While the men were engaged in its erection they were visited by large numbers of Indians from the various tribes of the surrounding country. These tribes, the true aborigines of our great State, were known as the Chickasaws, Choctaws, Biloxis, Pensacolas, and Pascagoulas. They smoked the pipe of peace with Iberville's men and entertained them with their war-songs and dances. Iberville returned to France in the summer of 1699 for the purpose of making his report to the Government and of obtaining supplies and re-enforcements for his colony at Biloxi. His brothers, Sauvolle and Bienville, were left in charge of the settlement during his absence. 14. Soon after the arrival of the French at Biloxi they were visited by two Catholic priests, Fathers Davion and Martigny, who were laboring as missionaries among the Indians in this portion of the country. After remaining among their countrymen for ten days, they returned to the service to which their lives had been consecrated. De Iber- ville reached Biloxi on his second visit December 7, 1699. He brought two ship-loads of stores for the colonists and sixty Canadian laborers. During his absence an English vessel had been seen reconnoitering the Lower Mississippi, presumably for the purpose of making settlements, and it was decided, immediately after his return, that it would be prudent to erect another fort for the protection of the inter- ests of the French. This fort, which was built on a point of land secure from overflow, was commenced early in 1700. It stood about fifty miles above the Passes. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER I. What region is known as the Mississipi Valley? Who were its original inhabitants? Who was De Soto? What commission did he receive from the Court of Spain? By whom was Florida discovered and when ? What did De Soto expect to find ? Why did the natives 10 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. become hostile to the Spaniards ? Give the circumstances of De Leon's death ? When, where, and with what force did De Soto land in Florida? What methods did he take to subdue the Indians? Describe the route followed by De Soto after leaving Tampa. What great battle was fought between the Spaniards and Indians? Describe De Soto's route after leaving Alabama. How was he received by the Indians who then inhabited Mississippi ? With what tribe did he pass the winter ? How did he requite their kindness ? Describe the night-attack upon De Soto's camp. Describe the route pursued by the Spaniards after this battle. What discovery has immortalized De Soto's name ? Describe the death and burial of De Soto. What became of his followers ? How long after De Soto's death before Marquette and Joliet descended the Mississippi ? Give an account of La Salle's explorations. WhowasTonti? Who was Zenobia? In what were all these explorers greatly interested? Whither did La Salle and Zenobia return after having reached the mouth of the Mississippi ? With what expedition did La Salle return to America? Upon what coast were they thrown? Describe the faith- lessness of Beaujeu. For what distant point did La Salle depart? Describe his murder. When and by whom was the first settlement in Mississippi made? Describe the landing and explorations of Iberville and his men. What spot was chosen for the building of the fort and the establishment of the colony ? Name some of the aboriginal tribes of Mississippi. What two missionaries visited the early colonists? What ruse did Bienville practice upon an English captain ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. \\ CHAPTER II. 1700-1718. IBERVILLE AND TONTI AMONG THE INDIANS. i. In February, 1700^ Iberville and his colonists received a visit from the veteran Tonti, the friend and companion of La Salle, who had remained at Fort St. Louis on the Illinois, while his friend and companion was struggling with the dif- ficulties that beset his path in the far south-west. He was induced to remain with the colony, and his quaint residence is still shown among the antique houses of Biloxi-on-the-Bay. He had always exercised great influence over the Indians with whom he had been associated, and soon after his arri- val in the colony accompanied the brothers, Iberville and Bienville, on a visit to the Natchez, a powerful tribe whose villages occupied a beautiful situation on the east bank of the Mississippi. Their chief peculiarity was their worship of the sun — their chief being known and idolized as the Great Sun. 2. Iberville and his companions were so much pleased with the location of the Indian villages and the appearance of the surrounding country that they decided to lay out a town and build quarters for a garrison there. The present city of Natchez stands on the spot selected. It was then called Fort Rosalie, in honor of the beautiful Countess Pont- chartrain, wife of the Minister of France at that time. The " Great Sun" of the Natchez received his visitors with savage pomp and ceremony, delighting in exhibiting to them the number of trained warriors at his command, also a great number of naked, grinning skulls heaped in the Temple of the Sun, the remains of human victims sacrificed to the great king of day. After leaving the villages of the Natchez, Iber- ville and his friend visited other tribes in the vicinity, and 12 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. were received with great kindness by all. Soon after their return to Biloxi, Iberville sailed for France again, leaving his brothers, Sauvolle and Bienville, in command of the settlements on the coast and river. 3. During the first few years after the settlement of the French at Biloxi, the colonists experienced all the hardships and privations of pioneer life. The calamities usually attend- ing such life — sickness and want of *food — were experienced in all their severity. Depending entirely upon the mother- country for supplies, the settlers took no steps at first toward the cultivation of the fruitful soil around them. Governor Sauvolle died August 22, 1701, and was succeeded in com- mand by Bienville. In December the latter received orders from France to evacuate the fort at Biloxi, and remove to a point on Mobile river, where supplies from France had already been deposited. Fort St. Louis, built by Bienville at this point, was for nine years the official center of the colony. After that time, the site of the present city of Mobile was selected and the fort removed thither. 4. In 1702-3 the colonists suffered great uneasiness on account of the hostility of some of the Indian tribes. A party of the colonists sent by Bienville to buy corn of the natives, during a time of great scarcity, was murdered in cold blood, and the whole colony called upon Bienville to avenge the outrage. He did so by raising a force of volunteers among his own men, and employing the services of a friendly tribe against his and their own enemy. In 1704 the sufferings of the colonists were relieved by the arrival of a ship from France, bringing over large stores of provisions and a detachment of soldiers to protect the settlers from the outrages of the Indians. The home-sick and hungry settlers welcomed the arrival of this vessel with every demonstration of joy. The presence of soldiers in the colony HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 13 especially tended to relieve their fears in regard to Indian outbreaks and other dangers incidental to pioneer life. Several priests and Sisters of Charity of the Roman church, and a number of young girls known as ''casket girls," came over on this voyage. These girls were destined to be the future wives of the brave young colonists, and were so called because the Government provided them with a bridal outfit and a trunk to carry it in. Several families of laborers also came over on this voyage, and the arrival of this ship was considered by the colonists as a new era in their history. The birth of the first white child in the colony occurred in 1705. 5. About this time war was declared between the Chicka- saws and Choctaws, two of the bravest and most influential tribes of the South-west. The Choctaws were allies of the French, and the Chickasaws, on this account, became deadly enemies of Bienville and his hardy band of settlers. The colonists suffered greatly from the hostility that subsisted between the two tribes. War had been declared between England and France, and the Chickasaws were incited to renewed enmity against the French by unprincipled English- men, through motives of policy. 6. Much depression was felt in the colony during the years 1706-7, not only on account of the frequent Indian out- rages, but from internal dissensions. The strong rule of Bienville provoked discontent among his subordinates, and reports reflecting on his management were not only circu- lated in the colony, but sent to the home government. In 1707 the settlements on the Mississippi sustained a great loss in the death of Iberville. He died of yellow fever July 9, 1706, while on his way to America from France. He was, in truth, worthy of the name bestowed on him by the settlers, that of " Father of the Colony." The exposure which had cut off many — famine, Indian hostilities, the opposition and apathy of the home government — nothing discouraged his great soul. His energies never 14 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. drooped and his faith in the future of the colonies never wavered. But for the forts built at Biloxi and Mobile all the French settlements must have been swept off by the hostile Indians, and but for his indefatigable exertion and his sys- tem of supplies and re-enforcements for the colony the whole body of settlers must have perished from famine. 7. During the lifetime of Iberville a fort and supply-sta- tion had been built on Dauphine Island. In 1708 an English war vessel destroyed and carried off the greater part of the supplies, and soon afterward it was decided to remove the fort to a point higher up and more secure from overflow. In 1708 the home government appointed a commission to inquire into the charges made against Bienville by his enemies in the colony and in France. During the interval from the time the charges were made and his triumphant acquittal, De Muys was appointed to occupy the place of governor, but died of yellow fever while on his way to the colonies on the Mississippi. Bienville was re-instated in office, the charges against him having been pronounced " false and malicious." 8. Owing to a scarcity of labor in the colony no effort had, as yet, been made toward the cultivation of the soil, though Bienville had always insisted that the colonists could be made self-supporting. In 1709 the home govern- ment recommended a plan for the importation of slaves from Africa, but it was not adopted. In i7iothe French Govern- ment, which, since the death of Iberville, had derived but little profit from the colony, made a grant of its possessions, including the whole of Louisiana from the sea to the Illinois, to Anthony Crozat, a rich merchant of France. He was to have exclusive control of the French possessions for a term of fifteen years. One of the stipulations made by Crozat to the French king was that he was to have sent annually from Africa to the colony a cargo of negro slaves, and from France two ship-loads of immigrants. In 1712 the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 15 number of persons in the colony had increased to about five hundred, of whom about fifty were white women and children. 9. A new Governor and Board of Directors for the colony were appointed soon after the transfer of Louisiana to Crozat. The Governor, a French officer named Cadillac, opposed systematically all the plans of Bienville and his brothers. Soon after his arrival in the colony the official residence, which had been established in Mobile by Iberville, was changed to Biloxi, on a bay of the same name, now one of the most noted health resorts of the entire gulf coast. The old fort that had been built by Iberville with such care had been burned down and a new one was built directly fronting Ship Island, at what was afterward called New Biloxi. This beautiful town, now containing many thousands of inhabi- tants, still retains many of its primitive French features, and a large number of its inhabitants are still typical French Catholics. Bienville still retained his commission as lieu- tenant of the king's army, and, in spite of the obstacles thrown in his way by the Governor and his party, continued to labor for the good of the colony. 10. In 1716, the Natchez Indians made war upon the French settlers, robbing and murdering whenever an oppor- tunity offered. Bienville, with a small detachment of soldiers and marines, succeeded, by a well-devised plan, in obtaining possession of the persons of the principal chiefs among the Natchez, the " Great Sun " himself being one of the number. Before promising their release, he demanded the lives of those who had been chiefly instrumental in the murder of his countrymen. He also demanded compensation for the robberies com- mitted by the Indians, and exacted a tribute of a given amount of timber to be used in the construction of a fort at their village on the river, where Crozat had already estab- lished a trading-post, 16 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ii. The Natchez chiefs, in order to preserve their lives and liberty, were glad to accept the terms of Bienville, and peace was concluded after the offenders had been put to death. The Indians assisted in building the fort, which was of durable materials and surrounded by a deep ditch and earthworks. In honor of the wife of one of the French Min- isters, it was named " Fort Rosalie." Soon after the termi- nation of the " First War with the Natchez," Cadillac was removed from the government of the colony and L. Epinay appointed in his place. Pending the arrival of the new governor, Bienville was to administer the affairs of the colony. L. Epinay was accompanied, on his arrival, by three companies of soldiers, a number of laborers and large quantities of supplies for the colonists. 12. In 1 71 7, Crozat surrendered his charter to the king of France, being unable any longer to comply with the terms of the bargain made in 1710. The famous Western or India Company, known also as the " Mississippi Scheme," or "Bubble," of which John Law was director, was chartered in September, 171 7, and Bienville re-instated as governor of the colony. The terms of the charter granted to this company extraordinary privileges for a period of twenty-five years. The African slave-trade was immediately inaugu- rated, the company binding itself to introduce three thou- sand Africans into its possessions. Large numbers of emi- grants were also sent over, large grants of lands were made and numerous plantations opened. Pascagoula, an old Indian village, was selected as a home by sixty emigrants from France. A beautiful legend hangs about this attractive spot on the shores of our gulf. A gentle tribe of Indians, known as the Pascagoulas, had been almost exterminated by the combined attacks of the white men and their fiery enemies of their own color. Pre- ferring death by their own acts rather than captivity to either foe, a small remnant of the band — all that was left — ranged HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 17 themselves along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and hand- in-hand marched, one moon-light night, into the raging waters, singing as they went to meet death the ancient war- song of the Pascagoulas. The legend says that until this time, on moon-light nights, still may be heard the low, sad song of the tribe beneath the waves, whose murmur is, " Pascagoula ! Pascagoula ! " QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER II. Who visited Biloxi in 1700? Describe the Natchez Indians — their worship. What fort was erected on the present site of Natchez ? How were Iberville and Tonti received by the " Great Sun? " What hard- ships did the early settlers of Mississippi undergo ? When did Sauvolle die, and by whom was he succeeded as governor? To what point was the fort removed from Biloxi ? How long afterward before Mobile was founded ? What caused great uneasiness among the colonists in 1702-3"? What Indian outrage was Bienville called upon to avenge? How were the sufferings of the colonists relieved in 1704 ? What class of religionists came over in this vessel? Who were the " casket girls?" When was the first white child born in the colony? What two tribes of Indians declared war against each other about this time? What tribe became an ally of the French; of the English? What caused internal dissensions among the colonists? When did the death of Iberville occur? What was he fondly styled by the colonists? Describe the efforts he made to sustain the colonies amidst the dangers by which they were surrounded. Why was it decided to remove the fort from Dauphine Island ? What charges were made against Bien- ville ? Were they sustained ? To whom were the French possessions transferred in 1710? What stipulation was made regarding African slavery? Population of the colony in 1712? Who was made governor of the colony under Crozat? What changes were made in the govern- ment of the colony ? To what place was the official residence removed from Mobile? Describe Biloxi. What Indian war ensued in 1716? How did Bienville punish the Natchez ? What terms were made with their chieftains ? Who was appointed governor in the place of Cadil- lac? When and why did Crozat surrender his charter to the king of France? Tell what you know of the "Mississippi Bubble." Tell of the legend of the Pascagoulas. 2 18 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER III. 1718-1732. 1. In March, 1718, the present site of New Orleans was selected by Bienville as the capital of the colony. Some of the members of the council were in favor of making Natchez the capital, but Bienville's influence decided the matter in favor of New Orleans. If Iberville may with justice be styled the " father of the colony" at Biloxi, Bien- ville may with equal truth and justice be styled the "father of New Orleans," as he it was who laid deep and broad the founda- tions of her commercial pros- perity. 2. No braver figure stands out in modern history than that of Lemoyne Bienville, the tenth of eleven brothers, all of whom gave their lives and fortunes to the civilization of America. The names of several of the brothers are closely identified with the history of Missis- sippi, and several of them sleep beneath her sod. Without Bienville, however, many a page in our State's history would have been a blank. Having assisted his illustrious brother, Lemoyne de Iberville, in laying the foundation of the colonies on the Lower Mississippi and the Gulf Coast, he remained for forty years the central figure in their an- nals, brave, sagacious, adventurous, and above all, patriotic. BIENVILLE HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 19, The welfare of the French possessions was the chief aim of his life. 3. In 1719, the colony was involved in the war between France and Spain. Bienville and his brothers burning to avenge the wrongs of France, proceeded with a force of about two hundred men to Pensacola, where a Spanish gar- rison was stationed. The garrison surrendered to them without bloodshed, but the place was afterward recovered from the French by a body of Spanish soldiers sent from Havana for that purpose. Bienville, who had returned home, received unexpectedly, soon afterward, large re-enforcements from France, and at the head of these and his Canadian and Choctaw soldiers, he boldly stormed the fort, which, after a stubborn resist- ance, was again surrendered to him. 4. In 1720, the Chickasaw Indians again declared war against the colonies. In July, of this year, the first cargo of negroes was brought to the colony. Yellow fever was also introduced during this summer, having been imported from the West Indies. Large numbers of immigrants arrived this year, and large tracts of land were opened for cultiva- tion. By 1721, the slave trade was fully inaugurated, the council fixing the price of slaves. The population of the colony by this time had increased to six thousand, of whom six hundred were negroes. In 1722, a colony of Germans arrived. Their thrift and industry soon proved that a valuable accession to the former population had been made. They engaged chiefly in agri- culture, and soon induced others of their countrymen to follow. 5. The year 1722 saw the bursting of the famous " Mis- sissippi Bubble," a scheme which had thrown the whole civilized world into confusion, and had reduced princes and noblemen from the height of fortune to the depths of poverty. Copper money coined in France for the express use of the 20 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. colonies was sent over this year. Up to this time, some of the members of the council had still hoped that Natchez or Biloxi might be selected as the permanent seat of govern- ment for the colony, but the influence of Bienville decided the question, and New Orleans was fixed upon. Pensacola was restored to Spain this year. 6. In 1723, a tornado swept the country, destroying many of the public buildings of New Orleans, and doing great damage to the crops of the colonists, who, by this time, had become convinced of the fact that theirs was an agricultural country. In 1724, a law establishing the Catholic religion in the colony was passed by the home government ; also one ex- pelling the Jews from the settlements. In 1725, the "Second Natchez War " broke out. This proud and jealous tribe — the "Natchez" or "Sun Wor- shipers" — had always considered the presence of the white man in their midst as an intrusion upon their inalienable rights, and only the sight of blood could satisfy their revengeful feelings. Upon a very slight pretext, they am- bushed themselves near the settlements of the whites, mur- dering the inhabitants in cold blood, and driving off the cattle and horses of the peaceful settlers. The vigilant measures of Bienville alone prevented a gen- eral uprising of the tribe, with its numerous allies. Placing himself at the head of five hundred chosen men, he invaded their territory and attacked them without mercy. Their villages were laid in ruins, their crops were destroyed, and they were compelled to sue for peace. It was granted only on condition that one of their chiefs, who had been active in the insurrection, should be put to death. 7. After the termination of this war, Bienville sailed for France. Although he had performed so many signal acts of service for his country directly, and for her indirectly, through his loved colonies, the attacks of his enemies became HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 21 so malevolent that it became necessary for him to return again to France to disprove the charges brought against him, and thus vindicate his official character. His enemies, however, triumphed for a time, and the brave Bienville, who, since the death of his gifted brother, had managed successfully the affairs of State, was forced to retire for awhile to private life. It mattered little to his enemies at the corrupt Court of France or among the' canebrakes that lined the mighty Mis- sissippi, that he had performed such prodigies of valor and usefulness for his beloved colonies. He had explored the gulf, the main body of the great river which pours its volumes of water into that gulf ; had, with his light prirogue, ventured into all the dark lagoons, bayous and lakes that form such a net-work near the mouth of the Mississippi ; had conciliated the savages by diplomacy or conquered them by his sword ; had established numerous ports, and opened by them regular channels of inter-commu- nication ; had constantly, but in vain, recommended the cultivation of indigo, sugar-cane, maize and cotton as the basis of colonial prosperity ; but all of this counted for noth- ing against the gay and giddy courtiers whose malicious charges were too eagerly listened to by the Government of France. He was received at court with great coolness, and was soon notified that his country needed his services no longer. Conscious of his own innocence and of the swift approach of a time when his arm alone could save the colo- nies, Bienville retired again to the shades of private life. 8. On the corner where two narrow streets make an angle in the heart of the " Old French Quarter" in New Orleans there is still shown the first substantial house built in the city of New Orleans. It is constructed of small, old-fash- ioned, sun-dried bricks brought for the purpose from across the seas — from France, the beloved, but ungrateful, country of Lemoyne Bienville. It was in this small, tile-covered, 22 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. one-storied house that he, while Governor of Louisiana, held his private and official residence. There is nothing in the appearance of the house to indicate that here one who served Louisiana and Mississippi colonies for forty years once lived, and it is only on rare occasions that the curious stranger is apprised of the character of the quaint old dwell- ing. But Bienville's reputation seeks not a " local habitation or a name ;" it is the property of all who love the deeds of great and daring men. 9. The absence of the Governor was deeply deplored by a large number of the settlers on the Mississippi, who real- ized that a time was rapidly approaching when his absence would be looked upon as nothing less than a public calamity. His successor in the government of the colony was Perier, a man well known in the military service of France, who reached the Mississippi colonies in 1727. The year 1729 is memorable in the annals of the colony on account of the bloody massacre of the French settlers at Fort Rosalie on the Mississippi, and at Fort St. Peter on the Yazoo. The Indians, aware of the absence of that strong arm which had so long kept them in subjection, began at once plotting for the extermination of all the white settle- ments in their midst. 10. The Chickasaws had long been the open and avowed enemies of the French, and the haughty Natchez cherished dark visions of revenge for the severe treatment accorded them by Bienville. An alliance was formed between these two powerful tribes, based on the agreement that the two French settlements, Fort Rosalie and Fort St. Peter, were to be destroyed by a preconcerted attack. A day had been agreed upon by the chiefs of the two tribes in which a joint attack upon the French was to be made, but the Natchez, burning with revenge, impatient of delay and eager for blood and plunder, resolved to strike a fatal blow in advance of the appointed time. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 23 11. On the 29th of November, 1729, a band of the Natchez, under the pretext of wishing to purchase ball and powder for an extended hunting expedition, treacherously introduced themselves into the palisaded walls of Fort Rosalie. At the same hour another band entered the vil- lage of Natchez, and still a third, with horrid shoutings and menacings, invaded the peaceful settlements lying adjacent to the town and fort. Never was surprise more complete or vengeance more thoroughly satiated. After the party within the fort had secured from the unsuspecting garrison all the arms and ammunition necessary for the accomplishment of their murderous purpose, a signal was given and a general massacre was commenced by the three divisions of the Indians. The work of destruction was soon accomplished. The fiendish butchers spared neither age nor sex as long as they remained sober enough to aim the deadly tomahawk fairly. A large quantity of liquors was stored within the fort, and the savages soon became intoxicated, drinking as they did without restraint, and in a short while a large number of the painted, hideous savages were lying around on the ground within the walls of the fort in a drunken stupor. But for this, perhaps, not one would have been left alive within the fort. As it was, two white men escaped and a large number of frightened, horrified women and children huddled together in one room, were reserved by the savages for a fate worse than death — slavery. The lives of the negroes were spared for the same purpose. The slain bodies of men, women and children were thrown without the walls and remained there for days a hideous sight to the captive survivors within. 12. On the 1 2th of December of the same year Fort St. Peter, on the Yazoo, was attacked by a band of the Yazoo Indians, who were confederates of the Natchez, and the whole garrison, with the exception of a few women, was murdered. The same sickening scenes that attended the 24 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. slaughter at Fort Rosalie were re-enacted here. News of this dreadful massacre was carried to New Orleans by a Catholic missionary who, descending the Mississippi in a small boat, narrowly escaped death at the hands of the In- dians. The whole body of settlements along the Lower Mississippi and the Gulf Coast was thrown into the ut- most consternation by the dreadful news, and the authorities were urged to take immediate vengeance upon the savage perpetrators of the cruel and cowardly butcheries. The new Governor was inexperienced in Indian warfare, and the waters of the Atlantic rolled between the mourning colonies and their natural protector, Lemoyne Bienville. The colon- ial officials realized the fact that there was no time for delay, and that whatever action must be taken in behalf of the helpless women and children, prisoners in the hands of the Indian captors at Fort Rosalie, must be done quickly. Gov- ernor Perier, yielding not only to his own inclinations but to the popular demand, at once dispatched two forces, one by land, another by water, against the murderous Natchez. A general uprising of the Indian tribes was apprehended. New Orleans was put in a state of complete defense, militia com- panies were organized, volunteers, singly and in companies, offered their services to the Governor, and brave and prac- ticed scouts were sent to the various settlements to arouse the inhabitants to a sense of the danger that menaced them. 13. The Choctaws were readily enlisted in behalf of the French, with whom they had long been allied, and the force sent through the country to Natchez by Governor Perier was composed principally of these wild warriors of the woods. They were led by LeSeur, a Frenchman, who had fought under Bienville, and who was well acquainted with the mode of Indian warfare. Loubois, another brave and experienced French officer, led the river forces. 14. The Natchez, unconscious of the approach of either army, were celebrating their success by a series of drunken HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 25 revels. On the 27th of January, 1730, they were surprised in the midst of their furious orgies by a fierce attack made upon them by their old enemies, the Choctaws, under LeSeur. Sixty Natchez warriors were killed and the same number of white women and children released from their cruel bondage. One hundred and fifty negroes were also liberated by this attack. The Natchez were panic-stricken, and retreated to the forts. The guns and ammunition of the murdered garrison were appropriated to their own use. 15. Unfortunately for the entire success of this campaign, the land and river forces of the French were each in utter ignorance of the presence of the other on the scene of action until Loubois had been in front of Natchez for several days. In these days of perfect concert of action between the different commanders in a campaign such an oversight would seem to be impossible, but it must have been due to the fact that in Indian warfare great secrecy and perfect silence must at times be observed. Besides, the camp of the Indians lay directly between the two armies, effectually cut- ting communication between the commanders. As soon as Loubois was apprised of the attack made on the enemy by the Choctaws, he effected a landing and joined his forces to those of Le Seur on the concession of St. Catharine, not far from the fort in which the Natchez had gathered for a stub- born resistance. 16. The French laid regular siege to this fort, having sev- eral cannon mounted upon their intrenchments and trained to bear directly upon the position of the enemy. Skir- mishes between the besieged and besiegers were of frequent occurrence, and several parleys were held, but nothing definite was accomplished before the 22d of February, when the Natchez agreed to surrender the women and children still in their hands on condition that the French should with- 26 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. draw their batteries and cease firing upon the fort. This proposal was accepted by the French for the sake of the captive women and children, and a truce of five days was agreed upon. The batteries were silenced, the women and children given up, but the Natchez, availing themselves of the cessation of hostilities, evacuated their strongholds, and before the French were aware of their design had escaped beyond the possibility of pursuit. They doubtless realized that no quarter would be shown by the infuriated French- men should they fall into their hands. After constructing fortifications on the bluff at Natchez and stationing a garrison there, the two commanders, Le Seur and Loubois, returned to New Orleans, carrying with them many of the helpless widows and orphans of Fort Rosalie. 17. The Natchez Indians, after their midnight retreat from Fort Rosalie, crossed the Mississippi, and were never after- ward as a tribe known east of its waters. Some members of the tribe took refuge with the Chickasaws and became identified with their tribal relations. The main body of the retreating host halted on the first high ground reached west of the river, supposed to be a spot on the Ouachita river, Louisiana, about forty miles from Natchez. Here they forti- fied themselves so securely as to maintain their position until January, 1732, when their retreat was penetrated by the French under Perier. In the contest that followed this once powerful tribe was well-nigh exterminated. Those escaping death or captivity joined themselves to other tribes, and the Natchez as a distinct nation ceased to exist. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER III. Through whose influence was New Orleans chosen as the capital ? Whatof the character of Bienville? Ofhisfamily? What of the capt- ure of Pensacola by the French? Its re-capture by the Spaniards? Its capture again by Bienville? What tribe declared war against the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 27 colonies in 1720? For what else is that year memorable? Inaugura- tion of the slave trade and population of the colony by 1721. German colonists? Bursting of the Mississippi Bubble? What disaster swept the country in 1723? Law establishing the Catholic religion? What of the " Second Natchez War ? " How did Bienville again become the " Saviour of the Colonists? " Why did it become necessary for him to return to France? How did his enemies triumph for a time ? Men- tion some. of his past services? How was he received at the Court of France? Describe the official residence of Bienville still to be seen in New Orleans. Who was the successor of Bienville? What was his character? For what is the year 1729 memorable in the annals of the colony? Between what two warlike tribes of Indians was an alliance formed ? Upon what was this alliance based ? Why did the Natchez strike before the appointed time? Describe the attack upon Fort Rosalie. The butchery of the garrison. Consequence of the drunken stupor of the Indians. How many of the garrison escaped? Fate of the women and children ? Of the negroes? When was the attack on Fort St. Peter made? By what tribe ? How did the news of the mas- sacre reach New Orleans ? What were the authorities urged to do ? Prompt action of Governor Perier? What was apprehended by the people of New Orleans, and how did the authorities prepare to meet the danger? What tribe remained faithful to the French? Who led the land forces to Fort Rosalie? The river forces ? How were the Natchez celebrating their victory over the whites? By what were they sur- prised? Tell of the events of the attack. What prevented this cam- paign against the Natchez from being an entire success ? Describe the siege of the fort, the skirmishing, terms of treaty. The truce. Escape of the Natchez. Action of Le Seur and Loubois. Whither did the Natchez flee? Their first resting-place ? Attack of Perier and extermi- nation of the Natchez as a tribe? 28 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER IV. i 7 32-1 780. 1. The charter of the colony of Georgia was issued in 1732, and the greater portion of that year was spent by Oglethorpe, the founder, in securing a suitable population for his new community. This year brought about important changes also for the French colony on the Mississippi. The Western Company, which had exercised supreme control over it since 171 7, became bankrupt, and the king of France was forced to take charge of his own again. In 1735, * ne aged Bienville was recalled from his seclusion and again, amid the rejoicings of a grateful people, appointed governor- general of Louisiana. He had lost none of his ambition or military ardor, and he resolved at once to take such steps as would free his country- men forever from the dread of Indian supremacy. The colonists in their turn, inspired by the presence of their white-haired leader, prepared themselves to follow him to victory or death. 2. Bienville's first movement was against the Chickasaws, who had been implicated with the Natchez in the massacre at Fort Rosalie. They had long been deadly enemies, not only of the French, but also of their allies, the faithful Choctaws. Hoping to crush their pride by a decisive blow, Bienville left New Orleans, March 23, 1736, with a large force of whites, Indians and negroes. The weather was disagreeable, and the road through the prairies to the Chickasaw country was of the worst possible nature. The Chickasaws occupied a very fine region, their villages being scattered over a portion of country from the Cumberland to the Mississippi river. The main portion of the tribe was HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 29 located on the Tombigbee river, and here Bienville decided to strike his first blow. On the 20th of May he attacked one of their principal towns, in what is at present Lee county, Mississippi, but found it much more strongly fortified than he had reason to suspect, and his troops were repulsed with great loss of both officers and men. The Chickasaws had not only copied the system of warfare used by the French, but were directed from within by English traders experienced in the art of war. 3. The soldiers of Bienville fought with their usual intre- pidity, advancing again and again to the attack, and being as often repulsed, until, finally, after a very heavy loss of both officers and men, they were compelled to retreat to their boats on the Tombigbee, leaving the dead and wounded in the hands of the enemy, and forced for the present to give up all thoughts of conquering the indomitable Chicka- saws. A reinforcing party, sent from the French posts on the Illinois to assist in this campaign, fared even worse than the main body of the army, having been surprised, sur- rounded and cut to pieces by the Chickasaws, only a few escaping to tell of the sad fate of the remainder. 4. The bodies of the dead left in the hands of the savages after these battles were subjected to great indignities. Those unfortunate enough to be made prisoners were tied to stakes and roasted to death over a slow fire. The Chickasaws were, of course, more insolent and aggressive than ever after the defeat of Bienville, who spent the greater part of the year 1738 in reorganizing his forces, his men clamoring to be led against the savages that they might avenge the slaughter of their former comrades. By the beginning of the year 1739, Bienville had gathered together an army of about twelve hundred men — whites — and twice as many Indians, with which he hoped to be able to humble the pride of the Chickasaws, even if he did not succeed in conquering and driving them from the country. 30 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 5. Bienville landed at the mouth of the St. Francis river about the first of July, 1739. His plan was to cross from there to the mouth of the Wolfe river, and from thence descend with his formidable army into the heart of the Chickasaw nation. A supply station and hospital were established at the mouth of the St. Francis. During the months of July and August, in that year, the heat was intense even for that semi-tropical climate, and by the end of the summer months sickness had made deep inroads upon the strength of Bienville's army. After the heat began to subside, the army — or that part of it able to travel — was moved to the mouth of Wolfe river, where it lay in helpless inactivity during the whole of the fall and winter months and until the early part of the spring. A fort called Assumption was built at this point. 6. About the 20th of March, 1740, Celeron, a French officer, who had command of a. detachment of French and Indian troops, was sent out with secret instructions to treat with the Indians, though, ostensibly, his mission was to procure supplies for the army. The Chickasaws had over- rated the strength of the invading army, and thinking that Celeron's detachment was the advance-guard of an immense force, were very easily induced to enter into a treaty of peace. Had they known the real condition of the French army it might have been a more difficult matter to induce them to consent to this amicable arrangement. 7. This campaign terminated the military career of the great Bienville, his management receiving severe blame, both throughout the country in which his campaigns had so ingloriously ended and in France, where he soon afterward returned, bowed down by griefs and misfortunes. He retired once more to private life, his last years obscured by the shadows of defeat and misfortune. He died in Paris, at an advanced age, and feeling keenly the malice of his enemies and the ingratitude of his country. He was sue- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 31 ceeded as governor-general of the colony by a polished statesman and courtier, the Marquis de Vaudreuil. 8. All the skill and sagacity of the new governor were called into requisition by the state of affairs existing in the colonies on his arrival at New Orleans. The Chickasaws had learned of the true condition of the French army at the time articles of peace were signed, and they were indignant at what they considered the deception practiced upon them by Celeron. To ascertain the temper of Vaudreuil, however, they sent a delegation to New Orleans to treat with him. The new governor was an adroit statesman, a diplomat trained at the Court of France, and he declined to treat with the Chicka- saws except in conjunction with their hereditary enemies, the Choctaws. He discovered and defeated a plan by which the Chickasaws were striving to induce all the tribes friendly to the French to join with them under the English flag and prosecute the war to the extermination of the French colonies. In 1754, with a strong force of white and Indian troops, he entered the Chickasaw country, following up Bienville's old route of nearly twenty years before. 9. Finding the Chickasaws still more strongly intrenched for defense and much better versed in the art of war than in Bienville's day, Vaudreuil contented himself with devastat- ing their fields and destroying whatever property fell in his way. Anything more he believed would involve a useless sacrifice of men. Had the Marquis de Vaudreuil been con- tinued in office, it is probable he would have proven more than a match for the wily Chickasaws ; but soon after his invasion of their country he was transferred to Canada — more important in the eyes of the French Government than Louisiana — and Kerlerec, a French naval officer, appointed in his stead as governor of the colony. In November, 1762, the famous " secret treaty," by which the king of France 32 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. presented to his royal neighbor, the king of Spain, the whole of Louisiana, was signed at Paris. In 1763, Great Britain, France and Spain entered into a treaty, signed at Paris, by which both France and Spain, ignoring the exist- ence of their " secret treaty," transferred their most impor- tant possessions east of the Mississippi to Great Britain. 10. Now all that vast domain which had been added to the French crown at the cost of so much blood and treasure, the colonies for which Iberville and Sauvolle had given their lives, for which Bienville had sacrificed forty years of his life, giving up the hope of making a brilliant record in France, the colonies for which Perier fought and Vaudreuil diplomat- ized, passed into the hands of the English, the hereditary foes of France. The flag of St. George floated from the battlements of Mobile, Biloxi, Natchez and the settlements on the Tombig- bee, over a people loyal to the core to the " lilies of France." Spain retained none of her possessions east of the Missis- sippi, except the island of New Orleans. 11. With English rule, however, laying aside all national sentiments, a new and better era dawned upon the colonists. The possessions acquired from France and Spain by the treaty of 1763 were divided by Great Britain into two large provinces, known as "East" and "West Florida." The latter embraced that portion of the present State of Missis- sippi as far north as a line drawn east from the mouth of the Yazoo river. A vast amount of litigation afterward arose as to the precise wording of the treaty in regard to boundary lines, and conflicting claims were set up, both by govern- ments and individuals, as to whom jurisdiction over the disputed territory belonged. 12. The French settlers in the colonies were at first violently opposed to British rule, and many cases of insub- ordination came up, but in process of time they became reconciled, and' finally the most obstinate were compelled to HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 33 acknowledge, in view of the development of the commercial and agricultural resources of the country, that the change had been beneficial. A new class of emigrants was attracted by the mild but firm rule of the English ; and, instead of depending upon a government across the waters for sup- port, these turned their attention toward the development of the vast natural resources of the country around them. The change in the class of population was not more marked than in the character of the governors sent to administer the affairs of the colony. The rule of the gay, chivalrous, pleasure-loving French officers was over ; that of the prac- tical, energetic Englishmen had begun. 1 3. The first governor sent out by the English was George Johnson, a Scotchman by birth, who brought with him a regiment of native Highlanders to assist in discharging the duties of his office. He arrived at Pensacola, the seat of government for the province of West Florida, in 1764. One of his first official acts was the changing of the names which the French had bestowed on different stations in the colony. Fort Rosalie, at Natchez, was in this way called Fort Pan- mure, after one of the British ministers. The French names throughout the colony were carefully obliterated, much to the disgust of the old French settlers. Governor Johnson, notwithstanding his British prejudices, made a wise and efficient ruler. He made such advantageous treaties with the Indians that public confidence was established and the population steadily increased, not only from England, but from the older American colonies in the South and South- east. The trouble between the King of England and his colonies on the Atlantic coast of America was just begin- ning to make itself felt, and those subjects of his Majesty in Georgia and the Carolinas who anticipated war, yet wished to preserve a strict neutrality, emigrated largely to the new English dominions nearer the Mississippi river, and were 3 34 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. welcomed as valuable accessions to the population of the young and vigorous country. 14. Governor Johnson was succeeded in office in 1770 by the Hon. Montford Brown, who was noted chiefly as the possessor of immense wealth. Governor Johnson's removal was much regretted by the people to whom he had adminis- tered justice for a period of six years. Governor Brown remained in office only one year, being then succeeded by Hon. Peter Chester, who consumed most of the time of his administration in trying to settle conflicting land grants and boundary lines. 15. By 1771-2, the colony had become almost self- sustaining. All the necessaries of life were raised in great abundance and with little trouble. Cattle, hogs, corn and poultry were the farm products of the province in 1776. Rude but comfortable log houses, each surrounded by its orchard of fruit trees, were gradually supplanting the huts built by the first settlers, and the whole country gave evidence of the prosperity which follows thrift and industry. During the year 1776, while the eastern colonies were in the throes of the Revolutionary War, peace, prosperity and contentment reigned in the colonies of which we write, only the echo of the great struggle on the border-land penetrat- ing to these quiet haunts. 16. In 1777-9, the province was agitated by the contro- versies that sprang up between the Spanish rulers of Louisiana and the British rulers of West Florida. In 1779, these disputes terminated in actual hostilities when Galvez, civil and military governor of West Florida, attacked and captured Fort Bute at Manchac, the fort at Baton Rouge, and Fort Panmure, at Natchez. Following up these brilliant conquests in 1780, Galvez stormed and captured Mobile, then proceeded to Pensacola, which, after a month's siege, surrendered. This put an end to British dominion in West Florida. After nineteen years of unbroken prosperity under HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 35 English rule, the province passed into the hands of the Spaniards. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER IV. Who was the founder of the colony of Georgia? How did he occupy the greater portion of the year 1732? What important changes were wrought this year for the colony on the Mississippi? In what manner did the colony again come under French rule? Who was made governor-general of Louisiana? Upon what steps did he resolve? Against what tribe were his first movements directed? Describe the march through the Chickasaw country and the disas- trous attack upon their villages. From whom had the Chicka- saws copied their system of warfare? How fared the reinforcements sent Bienville from the posts on the Illinois? Desecration of the bodies of the dead? Tortures practiced on the living? How did Bienville spend the greater portion of the year 1738? How large an army had he raised by the year 1739? Give Bienville's plans for the campaign of 1739-40. The sequel to those plans? What secret instructions were given Celeron? Show how the Chickasaws were induced to treat with the French. What did this campaign terminate, and why ? How were Bienville's last days spent and where did he die? By whom was he succeeded? State of affairs when the new Governor reached New Orleans? Character of Vaudreuil? What plan of the Chickasaws did he defeat? In his expedition into the Chickasaw country what policy did he carry out ? To what French province was Vaudreuil transferred, and who succeeded him in Louisiana? What of the famous "secret treaty?" Treaty by which this was ignored? Into whose hands did the French possessions east of the Mississippi now fall? What alone did Spain retain of all her possessions east of the Mississippi? What dawned with English rule? How did Great Britain divide the immense territory secured by the treaty of 1763 ? To what province did Mississippi belong? What caused a vast amount of litigation? How did the French settlers become reconciled to British rule ? What class of settlers was attracted by the change of govern- ments? First English governor? One of his first official acts? Character of Governor Johnson as a ruler? Causes of increase in the population? Who succeeded Governor Johnson, and when ? Suc- cessor of Governor Brown ? How did the colony become self-sustain- ing? By what was the province agitated in 1777-9? How did these disputes terminate? Into whose hands did West Florida now pass? 36 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER V. 1 781-1795. 1. Natchez and the surrounding district had for a long time after the massacre at Fort Rosalie remained uninhabited except by a small garrison of soldiers. After the treaty of 1763, by which the country exchanged French for British rule, a very superior class of emigrants settled in Natchez and the surrounding country. Many of them were of a class already alluded to, who wished to take sides with neither in the impending conflict with king and colonies ; nearly all were land and property-holders, either on a large or small scale. During the war between Spain and Great Britain, these settlers, though nearly all were Americans, were enlisted in sympathy with the British. After the capture of Fort Panmure by Galvez, but before the fall of Pensacola, they conceived the idea of recapturing the fort from the Spaniards and holding it either for the English or American forces. Many of them were retired officers either from the English or colonial armies, and preferred any rule to that of the Spaniards. 2. They were encouraged to undertake the capture of the fort by the report that large reinforcements from England were then on the way to redeem the province from the Spaniards. They also received instructions from the British commander at Pensacola to seize and hold the fort until he could send them reinforcements. Following the lead of Colonel Anthony Hutchins, these brave men, on the 22d of April, 1782, succeeded in retaking Fort Panmure, making prisoners of the garrison and planting the flag of England on the ramparts. While forming plans for further resistance, they were astounded by the reception of the news that HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 87 Pensacola had fallen and that the whole province of West Florida had been surrendered to the Spanish authorities. 3. Before the consternation with which these evil tidings were received had subsided, a Spanish fleet crowded with soldiers appeared in front of Loftus Heights. Nothing was left the brave veterans, who had defied Spanish authority, save instant flight. The story of their wanderings and sufferings, accompanied as they were by their helpless wives and children, makes up one of the saddest pages in our colonial history. Many of them died on the way, a lonely wilderness stretching between Natchez and Savannah, Georgia, the nearest British settlement. Only a remnant of the original party succeeded in reaching that point. The Spanish showed unexpected clemency to those who fell into their hands, probably believing that the best way to reconcile the people to a change of government was to adopt a conciliatory course in their treatment of them. 4. Francis Collet, whose official residence was at Natchez, was the first governor appointed by the Spaniards after their conquest of West Florida. During the next ten years the province was ruled successively by Trevanior, Don Estevano Miro, Piernal, Don Francis Boulingy, Don Carlos Grand Pre, and lastly Don Manuel Gayoso, who was so universally esteemed as to be spoken of as "Gayoso the Good." Revolutionary measures died out under his administration, and the country became satisfied with Span- ish rule. Land grants were obtained on easy and liberal terms, though there were many conflicting claims over unsettled grants and disputed boundary lines. 5. The tobacco crop was the first grown for exportation in the Natchez district. . From fifteen hundred to two thou- sand pounds per acre was the average yield, and it was sold at two dollars per hundred weight. At one time tobacco threatened to rival coxton as a staple. It was not until 38 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. indigo-planting had been tried without success or profit that the public mind turned toward cotton, which seemed from the first to be wonderfully adapted to both soil and climate. Cotton had been cultivated in the colony as far back as 1722, but on an exceedingly small scale. Bienville referred to its cultivation in one of his dispatches to the home government, and small quantities of it were sent to New Orleans during the administration of De Vaudreuil. 6. Slavery was introduced into the French colonies by the direct authority of the king of France, so that neither the early settlers, nor their descendants, can be held responsible for its existence among them. Many philanthropists of that day believed that the civilization of Africa would be accom- plished by the return to her shores of converted freedmen. 7. The rule of the Spanish governors of the province was characterized by great tolerance, in both civil and religious matters. There was no persecution for conscience sake, every man being allowed to worship God in the form that suited him best. The early settlers of Mississippi, not including the French settlements, were Protestants, having emigrated mostly from the older Southern States. Their Spanish rulers were, of course, Catholic, but made no attempt to force their religion upon the people. 8. The conquest of West Florida by Spain was made in the face of the protest of the United States Government, which now laid claim to this territory. Spain and the State of Georgia also claimed this "doubtful territory," basing their claims on treaties made at different times and places, and this northern boundary line became a constant source of trouble and litigation. To add to the complications of the dispute over this magnificent territory — now within the limits of our own State — several tribes of Indians, the Creeks, Choctaws, Cherokees and Chickasaws, all claimed that, by right of inheritance and possession, the land belonged to them. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 39 To strengthen the claims of their respective governments, the agents representing Georgia, Spain and the United States each made separate treaties with these Indians respecting their claims to the disputed territory. 9. In 1785, Georgia, by act of her Legislature, had formed a large county out of this disputed territory, known as Bour- bon county. In 1795, she grew tired of the incessant wrangling its possession involved, and by another legislative act sold the greater part of her claims to four land companies, known as the "Georgia," the "Georgia- Mississippi," the "Tennessee" and the "Upper Missis- sippi" companies. 10. These four companies began at once to parcel out and sub-divide the land, and the whole district would have been disposed of had not the United States Government interfered and put a stop to the proceedings. This famous act is known in history as the " Yazoo Fraud," and the action of the Legislature of Georgia in dealing with those companies was everywhere condemned, especially by the people of Georgia, who considered these fraudulent measures a reflec- tion on the fair fame of their State. The next Legislature pronounced the contract of the State null and void, and those persons who had been purchasers of land from them found that they had been cheated and despoiled. 11. Public indignation knew no bounds when these facts came to light. The Legislature of Georgia that repealed the Act, wishing to show their abhorrence of unfair dealings, collected all the documents pertaining to the " Yazoo Fraud," and making a bonfire of them in the yard of the State Cap- itol, burned them publicly, thus freeing the State from the charge of illegal transactions. 12. This dramatic action, however, did not put a stop to the controversies over the Yazoo Territory. For several years the disputes between the agents of the three govern- ments waxed fiercer and warmer, until suddenly they were 40 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ended in a very unexpected manner by the Congress of the United States. On the 27th of October, 1795, a treaty was completed at Madrid, by which Spain agreed that the Southern boundary of the United States should be "the line of thirty-first degree, north latitude, from the Mississippi river to the Chat- tahoochee ; thence down the middle of that river to its junction with the Flint ; thence to the head of St. Mary's river ; thence down that river to the Atlantic." 13. It was agreed also that all Spanish posts north of this line should be removed within six months, and that all American posts and all families living south of this line should be removed within the same time. Each of the two great powers by whom this treaty was ratified, agreed to allow the other the undisputed navigation of the Mississippi river, and to co-operate in the cultivation of the good-will of the Indians. Joint commissioners were to be sent out under the protection of the two Governments before the expiration of six months, to run the boundary line. Georgia still adhered to her claim to the disputed territory, and it was not until several years after Mississippi became a Territory that she ceded her interest to the Federal Gov- ernment. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER V. Describe Natchez and its population of an early day. With which Government did they take sides in the struggle between the Spanish and British for the possession of West Florida? How were they encouraged to undertake the capture of Fort Panmure? After its capture, by what news were they confounded? Tell the story of the flight and sufferings of the British refugees after the transfer of West Florida to Spain. How were those who fell into the hands of the Spaniards treated? Who was the first Spanish governor after the conquest of West Florida? Give the names of governors during the next ten years? Administration of "Gayoso the Good?" First crop HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 41 grown for exportation in the Natchez district? Average yield? When did the public mind first become attracted toward cotton as a staple? How far back in the history of the colony had cotton been cultivated on a small scale? How was slavery introduced into the French colonies? What characterized the rule of the Spanish governors? Religion'of the earlier settlers of Mississippi? What governments now laid claim to West Florida? What added to the complications of the dispute? Act of the Georgia Legislature in 1785? In 1795? Names of the four land companies? What was known as the "Yazoo Fraud?" Act of the Georgia Legislature in reference to it? How were the disputes over the " doubtful territory" silenced? Treaty between the United States and Spain? Claim of Georgia — when satisfied ? 42 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER VI. 1 795-1 798. 1. The Commissioners appointed by the United States Government to run their boundary line were Andrew Elli- cott and Thomas Freeman, the former an astronomer, the latter a surveyor. The Commissioners appointed by the Spanish Government were Don Stephen Minor and Sir Will- iam Dunbar. 2. Ellicott seems to have been singularly unfitted for the position assigned him. He meddled in politics, and used his office to create difficulties between the people of Natchez and the Spanish authorities. In the spring of 1797 a detach- ment of United States troops under Captain Guion, of the regular army, was dispatched with orders to take possession of the forts on the Mississippi river, in conformity with the terms of the treaty between Spain and the United States. Although the Spanish authorities had failed to comply with the terms of that treaty, Captain Guion was directed to avoid, if possible, an open rupture with them, but in any case to insist on the delivery of the forts to the United States troops, and the hoisting of the American instead of the Spanish flag. 3. Captain Guion's orders were to proceed first to the Chickasaw Bluffs, at the mouth of Wolfe river, where he would be met by a deputation from the Chickasaw Indians, whose favor the Government was anxious to retain. A large supply of goods and trinkets was to be distributed among them, and every effort made to conciliate them. 4. Captain Guion was detained at New Madrid by the commandant of the Spanish garrison, who objected to his HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 43 further progress down the river ; but on pledging his word to go no farther down than the Chickasaw Bluffs until the matter could be referred to headquarters, he was allowed to depart, and reached the place appointed, the spot where Memphis, Tennessee, now stands, on the 20th of July, 1797. A Spanish garrison at Hopefield, on the opposite bank of the river, made strenuous efforts to prevent an amicable arrange- ment between Captain Guion and the Chickasaws. War between Spain and the United States seemed at that time not unlikely, and Captain Guion, while awaiting orders from his superior officers, employed his men in the construction of a new fort on the ruins of one which had stood there since the days of La Salle. It was first called Fort Pickering, and the spot where it once stood is still identified. 5. Early in November, 1797, Guion, who had succeeded in winning the friendship of the haughty Chickasaws, descended the river to Fort Noagles, where Vicksburg now stands, leaving a sufficient number of men to garrison his new fort. Fort Noagles refused to surrender to the authori- ties of the United States, and Guion proceeded to Natchez, having been authorized only to make a demand for the sur- render of tb' forts. At Natchez the most unhappy dissensions existed between the American and Spanish authorities. Governor Gayoso had just been succeeded by Captain Stephen Minor, one of the boundary commissioners appointed by the Spaniards. A " Committee of Safety " had been appointed from among the best citizens, and all public matters were referred to that body. 6. Governor Gayoso had been appointed governor-general of Louisiana. He left a small garrison in the fort at Natchez, commanded by one or two officers. After the arrival of Guion with his troops, the soldiers of the two nations were encamped within a short distance of each other. On the 30th of March, 1798, the Spanish garrison received 44 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. orders to evacuate the fort, and the Americans quietly took possession of it. 7. The United States Government soon afterward dis- tributed troops among the most important military posts along the Mississippi river. There were three companies at Fort Adams, on the Chick- asaw Bluffs, and three each at Walnut Hills and Natchez. The boundary line between Spain and the United States was completed by the time the American troops took possession. It was marked by a wide trail cut the entire length of the line. 8. On the 7th of April, 1798, the conflicting claims of the United States, Spain, and Georgia, to the ''doubtful terri- tory," were settled by Act of Congress, which created the "Mississippi Territory." Both Spain and the State of Georgia were opposed to the passage of the Act, but were powerless to prevent it. The territorial limits embraced all of the present States of Alabama and Mississippi, south of the line drawn due east from the mouth of the Yazoo river. The inhabitants of this .district hailed with joy the passage of the Act creating the Territory. 9. Soon after the formation of the Territory, the citizens of Natchez petitioned Congress for the establishment of com- mon schools in their midst ; also, houses to be used for religious purposes. During the interval that elapsed between the departure of the Spanish commandant and garrison and the arrival of the first governor appointed by the President of the United States, the office of civil and military gov- ernor was discharged by Captain Guion in such a manner that order and harmony prevailed throughout the whole district. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 46 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER VI. Who were the commissioners appointed by the United States Gov- ernment to run their boundary line? Those appointed by the Spanish Government? Character of Ellicott? Mission of Captain Guion? Captain Guion's orders — how executed? Attempts of the Spanish authorities to detain United Stated troops? Their interference between Guion and the Chickasaws? Construction of fort on ruins of one built by La Salle? When did Guion proceed to Fort Noagles? Did he attempt to force the Spanish authorities to surrender? What dissensions existed at Natchez? To what position had Governor Gayoso been appointed? When did the Americans take possession of the fort at Natchez? Distribution of troops along the Mississippi river— at what points? Boundary line— how made? When were the conflicting claims to the doubtful territory settled— and how? What did the lines of Mississippi Territory embrace? Petition of the citizens of Natchez for the establishment of common schools and houses of religious worship in their midst? What office was discharged by Captain Guion ? 46 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER VII. i 798-1 802. 1. The Territory of Mississippi constituted one district for the purposes of government, but Congress had discretion to divide it at any time into two districts, with separate terri- torial governments in each. The importation of slaves from any part or place without the limits of the United States was forbidden by law. 2. The first governor of the new Territory was Winthrop Sargent, a native of Massachusetts, who had been an officer in the Revolutionary Army. Considerable opposition to his appointment had been made, not only by those living in the Territory, but by persons in authority at Washington, who believed that a more suitable person could be appointed to so important an office. 3. Although Governor Sargent was a native of New Eng- land, his unpopularity can not be attributed to that cause. The courtly Gayoso and his predecessors were foreigners and entire strangers to the manners and customs of the people, yet they, by pursuing a liberal and conciliatory policy, won the confidence and gratitude of all classes. There was at this time comparatively little sectional feeling between the North and South. Both sections had contributed their share to the glory of Bunker Hill and Eutaw Springs, and the memory of the blood that had flowed there in defense of their common country served for a long time to subdue all prejudices. 4. Governor Sargent reached the Territory on the 6th of August, 1798. The hopes founded by the people upon his utterances in his first public address, delivered in Natchez soon after his arrival, were not realized by his official HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 47 actions. His appointments were made in a partisan spirit, and in his letters to the officers of the general government he cast serious imputations upon the character of the inhabitants of the Territory, and recommended the adoption of the most stringent measures in dealing with them. The citizens very naturally resented the misrepresentations of Governor Sargent, and showed their dislike of his arbitrary proceedings in a very spirited manner. 5. On the 2d of April, 1799, the counties of Adams and Pickering were organized in the new Territory. The name of the latter was afterward changed to Jefferson. A Code of Laws for the Territory was framed by Governor Sargent and his judges, who legislated for the district until the General Assembly intervened. Congress was petitioned by the inhabitants of the Terri- tory, not only to abolish the code of Governor Sargent, but to give them voice in the framing of their own laws by advancing them to the second grade of Territorial govern- ment. 6. Although Governor Sargent and his friends did all in their power to defeat this petition, it was granted by Congress in the formation of the General Assembly. This consisted of a council of five members, to be appointed by the President, and four representatives each from the two oldest counties, besides one from a new county on the Tombigbee, called Washington. These representatives were to be chosen by the people, one member being allowed to every five hundred voters. 7. The fourth Monday in July was fixed by Congress for the election of representatives, and the fourth Monday in September for their first meeting. In 1801, in view of the state of feeling existing between himself and the people of the Territory, Governor Sargent repaired to Washington, leaving the control of the Territory in the hands of his secretary. 48 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Previous to his arrival at the seat of government, a committee had been appointed by Congress to investigate the official character of Governor Sargent, and report on the causes of complaint against his administration. While this committee acquitted the governor of criminal intent in his dealings with the people of the Territory, it became apparent to all, and especially to President Jefferson, that in the interest of peace and harmony, a change in the official government of Mississippi Territory should be made. Accordingly, Governor Sargent v/as removed from office and Governor C. C. Claiborne appointed instead. 8. One of the most prominent figures in the history of Mississippi is that of C. C. Claiborne. In his character the wisdom of Oglethorpe and the benevolence of Penn were combined with the bravery of the earlier colonial heroes. His commission was dated July 10, 1801, but so slow were the facilities for transmitting the United States mail in those days that it did not reach him until the 8th of August, nearly a month later. At this time the country bordering on the Mississippi river was almost a wilderness. A few small Spanish settlements were dotted here and there on the western shore, the only signs of human life and habitation for a distance of nearly eight hundred miles. 9. On the eastern side, before reaching Natchez, were Fort Pickering, at the Chickasaw Bluffs, and Fort Noagles, at Walnut Hills, now called Vicksburg. The people of the Territory, delighted at the removal of- Governor Sargent, gave his successor a hearty welcome. The Territorial Legislature met on the 1st of December, 1801, and the new governor's message was read in the hearing of both houses. The Assembly was composed of the representative men of the Territory, honest and capable, attached to the interests of the United States and of their own Territory. 10. Natchez was at that time not only the seat of govern- ment, but the great center of trade for the Territory. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 49 Trading-boats from the West were constantly lading and unlading at her landing, and the river front was crowded with cotton-bales and stores of miscellaneous merchandise. The aggregate sales of cotton in a single season, in the Natchez district, amounted to seven hundred thousand dollars. 11. Governor Claiborne found the Territory involved in a network of litigation, arising from the fact that fraudulent landgrants had been issued by the Spanish authorities to persons in and around Natchez after the confirmation of the treaty between Spain and the United States. 12. There was very little political excitement in the Ter- ritory at this time. In 1802 a discussion arose as to the character of the judges, who held office in the Territory, some of them having very little legal training or acquire- ments. 13. There was at this time only one printer in the Terri- tory. He was a novice in the profession, James Terrell by name, and was employed to print the proceedings of the Leg- islature. The following year, Andrew Marschalk, who had come to the Territory as a soldier, set up a printing-press, and established a newspaper in Natchez, called the Herald. He received the contract for printing the Laws of the Terri- tory, which previous to that time had been written by a secretary employed for that purpose. Many inhabitants of the Territory had opposed its ad- vancement to the second grade of Territorial government, on the grounds that a great increase in taxation would inevitably follow. The steady improvement in every department of business, however, that followed upon the change in the form of government, the increase in emigra- tion, the opening of new avenues to wealth by the increased facilities in navigation and commerce, more than compen- sated for any increase of taxation. 4 50 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER VII. How was the Territory of Mississippi constituted? First Territorial Governor? Give a sketch of Winthrop Sargent. Contrast with Spanish governors? Sectional feeling between the North and South? First public address of Governor Sargent? In what spirit were his appointments made? How did he cast unjust imputations upon the inhabitants of the Territory? How did the citizens show their dislike of such proceedings? First counties formed in the new Territory? Change of name? How was the first Code of Laws formed? Petition of the inhabitants of the Territory? How granted by Congress? Of what members did the General Assembly consist? Day fixed for the election of representatives? Of first meeting? In whose hands did Governor Sargent leave the control of Mississippi Territory? What committee was appointed by Congress? Result of its investigation? Who was appointed to succeed Governor Sargent? Describe the character of Governor C. C. Claiborne. Character of country border- ing on the Mississippi river at that time? The western side? The eastern? Meeting of first Territorial Legislature? Describe Natchez at that period. In what did Governor Claiborne find the Territory involved? First printing-press established in the Territory? What improvements followed the advancement of Mississippi to the second grade of Territorial government? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 51 CHAPTER VIII. i 802- i 804. 1. On the 24th of April, 1802, the State of Georgia ceded to the United States, on certain conditions, all her claims to the Mississippi Territory. The following are the terms of the treaty : Georgia ceded to the United States all her right, title and claim to the territory belonging to her south of Tennessee and west of the Chattahoochee river, up to the great bend, thence west of the line direct to Nickajack creek, near Chattanooga, Tennessee, on the following conditions : First: That out of the first net proceeds of the sales of the lands thus ceded, the United States shall pay to Georgia, one million two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Second: That all persons who are settled within the said Territory shall be confirmed in all their titles by the United States Government. Third: That the lands so ceded be considered a public fund, to be distributed by the United States in the proper manner and as other public funds in lands. Fourth: That the United States, at their own expense, extinguish for the use of Georgia as soon as the same can reasonably be done, the title of Indian tribes to the county of Tallassee, to the lands occupied by the Creeks, and to those between the forks of the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers, for which several objects the President of the United States shall order that a treaty be immediately held with the Indians, and that in like manner the United States shall extinguish the Indian title to all the other lands within the State of Georgia. Fifth: That the territory thus ceded shall form a State as 62 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. soon as it shall contain sixty thousand inhabitants, and as such be admitted into the Union. 2. This treaty was ratified by the Legislature of Georgia on the 16th of June, 1802. Soon afterward the money which had been paid into the treasury of Georgia by the Yazoo companies was paid over to the United States Government, and this ended forever the dispute over the Yazoo Territory. 3. In March, 1802, Captain Narsworthy Hunter, the first delegate to Congress from the Mississippi Territory, died. Mr. Hunter had taken his seat in 1801. He was succeeded December 6th by Thomas M. Green. 4. Soon after Governor Claiborne's arrival in the Terri- tory he began negotiations with different tribes of resident Indians. He asked of the general government a strict definition of the policy they wished him to pursue toward the natives, recommending the adoption of liberal measures. An interpreter was furnished him by the government to assist in these negotiations. The Choctaws were the first to accept the friendly overtures of the Governor. 5. They had been the steadfast friends of the whites ever since the arrival of the first settlers, and had proven their devotion on many battle-fields. They met Governor Claiborne in council at Fort Adams, December 17, 1801, agreed to the retracing of the old boundary line established by the British, and ceded to the United States an area of land comprising 2,245,720 acres. They also agreed to the opening of a highway through their nation to the settlement in Tennessee. The Chickasaws also granted the right of a highway through their country from Natchez to the Tennessee settle- ments. 6. Governor Claiborne encouraged the Indians to cultivate habits of thrift and industry, furnishing them with looms and agricultural implements at the expense of the Government. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 53 In January, 1802, the Legislature created the counties of Wayne, Claiborne and Wilkinson. A militia law was also passed at this session. 7. The town of Washington, situated six miles east of Natchez, was chosen as the site of Jefferson College, which was established in 1802, under the presidency of Professor Joseph Caldwell, a man of marked ability and long experi- ence ; it soon began to exert a beneficial influence on the society of the young Territory. As the country into the interior was opened up the Territorial capital was removed from time to time to meet the demands of a rapidly increas- ing population. Washington, Natchez, Columbia and Mon- ticello were each at different times the seat of the Territorial government. 8. That portion of territory bordering on the river was for several years infested with bands of highwaymen, who committed the most atrocious murders and robberies with impunity. Governor Claiborne was forced in 1802 to offer a large reward for the leaders of these outlaws. This had the desired effect. The leaders were tried, convicted and hung, and their followers left the Territory. 9. Under Governor Claiborne's supervision, trading posts were established for the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians, the one for the former on Tombigbee river, that for the Chickasaws near Fort Pickering, on the Mississippi. The Chickasaws, who, next to the Natchez, had been the most inveterate enemies of the white settlers, began, under the fostering care of the government of the United States, to acquire habits of industry and economy, cultivating their own lands and manufacturing their own clothing. 10. March 12, 1803, William Lattimore, of Natchez, suc- ceeded Thomas M. Green as delegate of the Mississippi Territory in Congress. December 20th, of the same year, Louisiana was trans- ferred from the government of Spain to that of the United 54 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. States, and Governor Claiborne was appointed by the President to administer the affairs thereof, still retaining, however, his office of Governor of Mississippi Territory. On the ist of October, 1804, he was appointed Governor of Orleans Territory, which act severed permanently his official connection with Mississippi. During the interval that elapsed before the appointment of his successor, the government of the Territory was entrusted to his former secretary, Cato West. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER VIII. When did Georgia cede to the United States Government her claims to Mississippi Territory? Terms of the treaty? When ratified? Death of the first Congressional delegate from Mississippi ? His suc- cessor? In what manner did Governor Claiborne gain the good-will of the Indians? How had the Choctaws proven their devotion to the whites? When did they meet Governor Claiborne in council? What agreement was made by them? By the Chickasaws? In what did Governor Claiborne encourage the Indians of the Territory? What counties were created in 1802? What town was chosen as the site of Jefferson College? When was this college, the oldest in the South, established? Why was the Territorial capital removed from time to time? Name some of the towns which were at different times used as the seat of the Territorial government. With what was the country bordering on the Territory at one time infested? How was the evil remedied ? Where were the trading posts for the Choctaw and Chicka- saw Indians established? What improvement was manifest in the wild and warlike Chickasaws? Congressional delegation from the Territory in 1803? When was Louisiana transferred from the govern- ment of Spain to that of the United States? Who was appointed its Governor? How was his official connection with Mississippi Territory permanently settled? In whose hands was the government of the Territory left temporarily? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 55 CHAPTER IX. 1 804- 1 809. 1. In 1803, while Claiborne was yet Governor of the Mis- sissippi Territory, Congress passed an act reserving the six- teenth section in each township for the support of schools within the same. Thirty-six sections to be located in one body were also appropriated for purposes of education. 2. President Jefferson appointed Hon. Robert Williams, of North Carolina, to the office in Mississippi made vacant by the removal of Governor Claiborne. Governor Williams reached the Territory on the 26th of January, 1805. Cowles Mead succeeded Colonel West as Secretary of the Territory. Colonel West had been the choice of the people for Gover- nor, but their wishes were ignored by the President. 3. Governor Williams issued a proclamation soon after his arrival, calling for a special session of the Territorial Legis- lature, to be held on the 1st of July, 1805. Neither the Legislature nor the people were favorably impressed with the new Governor, who was cold and austere in deportment, though a man of ability and conscientious convictions. His Secretary, Cowles Mead, was much the greater favor- ite of the two. The first few months of the new admin- istration were characterized by serious border difficulties, which, at one time, threatened to involve the American and Spanish Governments. As each government pursued the policy of non-intervention, the disputes between the settlers on either side of the boundary line between the two, grad- ually died out. 4. In 1805, Judge Toulmin prepared a Digest of the Laws of the Territory, which was much appreciated by the Legis- lature. Many young lawyers of marked ability had by this 56 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. period chosen the Territory as their future home. Among these were Edward Turner, Lyman Harding and George Poindexter, all of whom were to wield a lasting influence upon the fortunes of the young Commonwealth. Mr. Poindexter was a member of the Territorial Legislature of 1805. 5. In August, 1806, the Spaniards violated the terms of their treaty with the United States Government, by crossing the boundary line with a large force of armed men. This invasion caused intense excitement in the adjacent Terri- tories. The militia of Orleans and Mississippi Territories was promptly called out, and General Wilkinson, of the reg- ular army, at the head of a detachment of troops, proceeded to the banks of the Sabine river, the line of demarkation between the two governments. The Mississippi troops were commanded by Major F. L. Claiborne. In the absence of Governor Williams, Secretary Mead acted as Governor. When the Americans reached the Sabine they found that the Spaniards, who were about fifteen hundred strong, had fallen back upon their own territory for want of supplies. Negotiations between their commander and General Wilkin- son resulted in a suspension of hostilities, the whole matter being referred to the two governments. 6. On the 27th of November, 1806, the President of the United States issued a proclamation in reference to an unlawful expedition, of which Aaron Burr, formerly Vice- President of the United States, was reported to be the head. Governor Mead also issued a proclamation on the 23d of December, calling on the inhabitants of Mississippi Territory for aid in suppressing any treasonable design against the general government. 7. Burr made the descent of the Mississippi river in Janu- ary, 1807. No opposition v/as made to his progress until he reached the boundaries of the Territory of Mississippi, when he was informed by the authorities that he could proceed no further. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 57 Governor Mead demanded the instant and unconditional surrender of the whole force, their arms and ammunitions, and, after some hesitation, Burr complied, knowing it would be useless to resist. His force was much less formidable than had been represented, and, besides the determination evinced by the territorial authorities in obstructing his prog- ress, the general government had stationed armed vessels in front of Natchez to prevent the further progress of his fleet. 8. The only condition required by Burr in surrendering, was that he might be tried by civil, instead of military, authority. This request was granted ; Burr gave himself up and was taken to the little town of Washington, where he gave bond in the sum of five thousand dollars for his appearance at a called session of the Superior Court, to be held in February. His followers dispersed, the majority of them professing entire ignorance as to what his plans had been. 9. It was the opinion of Mr. Poindexter, then Attorney- General of the Territory, that the case of Colonel Burr lay without the jurisdiction of the territorial courts, and he recommended his removal to a competent tribunal. Fearing that this suggestion would be carried out, Burr made his escape from the Territory, but was afterward captured and taken to Richmond, Virginia, for trial before the United States authorities. He was acquitted, the evidence against him not being strong enough to convict him of treason against his country, but public opinion has always held him guilty, and his name has been handed down to posterity as that of a traitor who would have sacrificed his country to his ambition. 10. Governor Williams returned after a prolonged absence from the Territory, while the excitement concerning Burr was at its height. The promptitude shown by Acting-Gov- ernor Mead throughout the entire transaction elicited the warmest admiration of the people of the Territory. 58 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 11. By an Act of January 9, 1808, the Territory of Mis sissippi became entitled to one representative in Congress. The uncertainty hanging over land titles, and the conflicting claims that came up in the territorial courts, prevented a rapid increase of immigration. The Yazoo and British claims covered some of the most valuable lands in the Territory. Congress was appealed to for help, but declined to interfere. The first bank in the Territory was established December 23, 1809, at Natchez, with a capital of $500,000. By the provisions of its charter it was to run for twenty-five years, and its directors were made individually liable for any emis- sion of notes or bills over three times the amount of their capital stock. 12. Lyman Harding, the first attorney-general of Missis- sippi, and Christopher Rankin, a prominent lawyer, who, soon after his arrival in Natchez, was elected to the Terri- torial Legislature, both came to Mississippi about this time. The country offered a fine field for the development of genius and enterprise, and scores of young men from the older-settled States — those possessed of the brain and brawn necessary for the development of a great Commonwealth — flocked to the new Territory, attracted by the opportunities it afforded for gaining both wealth and fame. 13. While pioneer life in Mississippi Territory had its pri- vations and discomforts, it had also its pleasing side. The new settlers, as a general thing, were industrious and intelli- gent, most of them being descendants of old and well-estab- lished families in Virginia, Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Georgia. Churches and school-houses sprang up wherever this class of people located, and their communities were noted for hospitality and public spirit. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 59 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER IX. What act for the benefit of education in Mississippi Territory was passed in 1803? Who was appointed Governor of the Territory? Who was made Secretary? What proclamation was issued by Govern- or Williams soon after his arrival ? Character of the new Governor? What of border difficulties ? How settled ? What of Toulmin's Digest of the Laws of the Territory? Mention the names of some young men of ability who came to the Territory about this time? How did the Spaniards violate the terms of their treaty with the United States in 1806 ? What preparations were made to resist this invasion ? Who commanded the troops from Mississippi Territory ? How was the diffi- culty finally settled? What proclamations were issued in 1806 by the President of the United States and the Governor of Mississippi Terri- tory? When did Aaron Burr make the descent of the Mississippi river ? Where was his further progress first opposed ? What demand was made by Governor Mead? What of Burr's force? What con- dition was made by Burr in surrendering? Give the particulars of his arrest and the dispersion of his followers ? Would such an invasion as Burr's be considered formidable at the present time? Who was Attorney-General of the Territory at the time of Burr's arrest? His opinion of the case? Burr's escape? Recapture? Trial before the United States Courts? His acquittal ? Public opinion ? What of the conduct of Governor Mead during the excitement caused by Burr's arrest? When did Mississippi become entitled to a representative in Congress? What prevented a rapid increase of immigration? First bank in the Territory? What did Mississippi Territory offer about this time? What of pioneer life in Mississippi Territory ? Character of new settlers ? 60 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER X. 1809-1813. 1. On the 4th of March, 1809, David Holmes, of Harris- burg, Pennsylvania, was appointed Governor of Mississippi Territory. He soon established the reputation of a man of great wisdom and justice, especially in his decisions on cases of disputed land claims. The country was rapidly develop- ing, notwithstanding these disputes over titles, which con- tinued until the whole of West Florida was transferred from Spanish to American rule. New counties were formed in rapid succession. Amite, Wayne, Franklin and Warren were organized in 1809; Greene and Marion in 181 1 ; Jackson and Hancock in 1812. From 1810 to 1812 the Territory was menaced by Indian warfare. The various tribes of Indians in and around it began to manifest signs of decided unfriendliness, notwithstanding the treaties that had been made from time to time. 2. The Choctaws, who, from the days of Iberville and Bienville, had been the firm friends of the whites, showed a disposition to rebel against the firm rule of Governor Holmes. A war between the United States and Great Britain was pending, and the change in the sentiments of the Indians was attributed to the influence of the agents of the latter country. Tecumseh, the celebrated chief of the North-west, visited the Southern tribes and was, unhappily, too successful in his efforts to inaugurate a war against the whites. The Choctaws and Chickasaws, after some wavering beneath the fiery eloquence of Tecumseh, finally concluded to remain true to their alliance with the United States, but the Creeks, a very powerful Southern tribe, joined with the Spaniards and English against the Americans. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 61 3. The Spaniards were almost as troublesome as the Indians. They still occupied the port of Mobile, and exacted heavy duties on all articles passing through their hands. They also sent out secret emissaries to the Indians, endeav- oring by all possible means to incite an insurrection against the American settlers. The settlements on the Tombigbee were surrounded on almost every side by the Creeks and Choctaws, so that in case of war it would be almost impos- sible for the settlers to escape destruction. Realizing the danger incurred from the close proximity of the Spaniards, they determined that if they could obtain no assistance from the general government they would take the matter into their own hands. 4. Trouble with the Spaniards in regard to the boundary line between the two governments was again renewed, and the neutral ground lying on the borders was the scene of constant and bloody warfare. Troops sent by the United States to quell disturbances and enforce the terms of the treaty with Spain were joined by many brave volunteers from Mississippi Territory, eager to reclaim American soil from foreign dominion. Under these difficulties, Governor Holmes acted with great energy and promptitude. He ordered a draft of the Territorial militia to be taken in July, 1812, to assist in the defense of the Territory, but before the order could be enforced a sufficient number of men from the different regiments had volunteered to form a brigade, rendering the taking of a draft unnecessary. The brigade was placed under command of Colonel F. L. Claiborne, brother of Governor Claiborne, of Orleans Territory, and was ordered in June, 1813, to proceed to Mount Vernon, a point on the Alabama river, easy of communication with Mobile. 5. Congress had in the early part of the year, in response to repeated petitions from the inhabitants of Mississippi, issued orders to General Wilkinson, commander of the 62 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. army, to proceed against Mobile and demand its surrender. On the 8th of March the demand was made, and the Spanish troops, unable to resist a superior force, withdrew, not only from the forts they had occupied, but evacuated the Territory entirely, giving the United States troops peaceful possession. 6. The settlers in this portion of the Territory, though relieved of the intrigues of the Spaniards, were constantly intimidated by the Creeks, who showed open signs of hostility. Every precaution against surprise had been taken by the inhabitants of the threatened district, even before the arrival of troops among them, and these precau- tions were encouraged by General Claiborne, who distrib- uted his forces in the best possible manner for the defense of the settlements. Stockades had been erected by the citizens of the different communities, into which their wives and children had been gathered for protection. In the block- house at Fort Mims alone were crowded nearly two hundred women and children under the protection of the garrison. 7. On the 27th of July, 181 3, the battle of Burnt Corn Creek was fought between a body of militia under Colonel Caller and a large force of Creek Indians. The Indians fought stubbornly for awhile, but were compelled at length to retreat. The most advanced of the stockade forts and the one most exposed to attack was Fort Easely, on the Tombigbee river. It was crowded with women and chil- dren, refugees from the surrounding country, and was defended by a force of only ten or twelve men. In August, 181 3, a large force of Indians set out to attack this point, but the inmates of the fort, having been apprised of their intentions, applied to General Claiborne, at Mount Vernon, for assistance, and that officer, at the head of a detachment of troops, arrived at the fort just in time to prevent the threatened attack. 8. The Indians, baffled at this point, determined to seek HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 63 revenge elsewhere. Fort Mims, now within the limits of Alabama, contained a garrison of over one hundred men, commanded by Major Beasely, an experienced Indian fighter and a brave man. Fort Mims was considered one of the strongest points in the Territory, having a plentiful store of provisions and ammunition, and being so well-guarded by soldiers of experience and bravery. For this reason it was crowded with women and children from all the surrounding country, .who had fled thither for protection from the blood- thirsty savages. 9. On the 30th of August, 1813, the garrison was sur- prised while at its noonday meal by an attack from a body of about one thousand Creek warriors, hideous in paint and feathers, and yelling like demons. Major Beasely, the com- mandant, fell dead at the first fire, and before the soldiers could recover from their surprise at the sudden onslaught, the work of murder had begun. Men, women and children were butchered in cold blood, after the most approved manner of Indian warfare. No mercy was shown on account of age or sex. The soldiers of the garrison fell at their posts, fighting bravely to the last, the foe being .ten to one. The sick and wounded in the fort were murdered, the buildings set on fire, and the bodies of the dead thrown without the enclosure. 10. The Indians' losses in killed and wounded were quite heavy, the brave soldiers of the garrison having used their weapons with terrible effect. Not more than ten or twenty out of the two hundred and seventy-five inmates of the fort escaped to Mount Vernon to tell the terrible news, and some of that number died soon afterward of wounds received in the fort. 1 he news of the massacre at Fort Mims spread consternation throughout the entire Territory. A general uprising of the Indians was anticipated, and whole settle- ments along the frontier were abandoned, men leaving their crops in the fields unharvested, and crowding with their 64 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. families into the stockades, where the presence of the soldiers afforded some protection. ii. Had the Choctaws and Chickasaws, at this juncture, united with the Creeks against the whites, the extermina- tion of the settlers would have been easily effected. That the Choctaws united with the whites instead, for the pro- tection of the Territory, was due to the influence of Push- ma-ta-ha, one of their chieftains, who had long been the faithful friend and ally of the whites. His efforts to insure their safety were ever afterward remembered with gratitude by the whites. The Chickasaws, who had been wavering between their natural thirst for blood and their alliance with the whites, on seeing the firm stand taken by the Choctaws, followed their example, and declared for peace and union with the inhabitants of the Territory. This was a period of great peril to the whites, who con- sidered themselves as being exposed daily to the treachery or open enmity of the red men. The Chickasaws, one of the bravest and haughtiest of the Mississippi tribe of Indians, naturally considered the presence of the white man upon the soil of their forefathers a standing menace to their dearest rights, and in their bosoms, notwithstanding their repeated professions of friendship, there ever lurked the secret desire for revenge. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER X. Who was next appointed Governor of Mississippi Territory? What reputation did he soon establish? What of the development of the country? What new counties were established in rapid succession? What danger menaced the Territory from 1810 to 181 2? What disposi- tion was shown by the Choctaws? What war was pending? What celebrated Indian chief visited the Southern tribes, and for what pur- pose? What effect did his fiery eloquence have upon the different tribes of Mississippi Indians? How did the Spaniards render them- selves troublesome ? What of the dangers to the settlements on the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 65 Tombigbee? What course was it thought best to pursue? What caused the troubles on the border to be again renewed? What action was taken by Governor Holmes? Under whose command were the Mississippi troops placed? What orders were issued by Congress in response to the petitions from the people of the Territory? What was the result ? Show how the people of that portion of the Territory were menaced by the Creeks after the departure of the Spaniards. What precautions against surprise were taken by the whites? What of Fort Mims? When was the battle of "Burnt Corn Creek" fought? Between what forces? With what results? What fort occupied the most dangerous position ? How was the intended attack of the Indians on this fort diverted? Describe the situation at Fort Mims at this time. Tell of the surprise of the garrison and the dreadful massacre that ensued. What of the Indian losses in the attack upon Fort Mims? How many of the inmates of Fort Mims escaped to tell the dreadful news? What effect did this massacre have upon the people of the Territory? What would have been the result if the Choctaws and Chickasaws had united with the Creeks at this juncture? To whose influence is it due that they did not? How did the firm stand of the Choctaws influence the haughty Chickasaws ? Natural feelings of the latter? 66 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XI. 1813-1817. 1. Soon after the fall of Fort Mims, Governor Holmes ordered out the Territorial militia, both infantry and cavalry. The cavalry, under the leadership of General Thomas Hinds, repaired to Mount Vernon, and were followed a few days later by four companies of infantry. They were placed under General Claiborne's command, and he was instructed to prepare for active service. Claiborne and his troops had been anxious from the beginning of the campaign to invade the country of the Creeks, and thus " carry the war into the enemy's country." General Flournoy, who had suc- ceeded to the command of the regular troops, declined to issue orders to that effect, believing that a larger force than they could muster would be necessary for such an expedition. 2. When General Andrew Jackson, the popular hero and beau ideal of the people of the South-western States, was placed at the head of the campaign against the Indians who were menacing the lives and property of the people of those States, he at once adopted the policy which had been vainly recommended by the people of the Territory, and Claiborne was authorized to proceed at once into the heart of the Creek nation. 3. After the massacre at Fort Mims, the Creeks antici- pated the measures that would be taken by the whites to avenge the atrocity, and fortified themselves in a dense swamp on the eastern bank of the Alabama river, at a place well known to history as " Eccanachaca," the neck of which had been fortified by the Creeks and the enclosed space called the "Holy Ground." Here Weatherford, a half-breed Indian, urged the Creeks to make a stand and live HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 67 or die for their nation's rights. Their fanatical " prophet," who was a brother of the famous Tecumseh, also exhorted them not to have any fears of the whites, telling them that the ground within the enclosure would open and swallow the first pale-face who should set foot within the enclosure. 4. Alas! for the poor deluded followers of the false prophet. The whites and Choctaws under Claiborne and Push-ma-ta-ha, stung with madness at the thought of Fort Mims and its four hundred victims, assaulted the fortifica- tions with such fury that the defenders soon began to waver, then to fall back, and finally to fly precipitately from the Holy Ground, after they found that the words of the prophet were not verified. A number of white prisoners were found within the stockade bound to the stake with combustible material, ready to be ignited when the time for celebrating the victory should come. Large numbers of the Creeks were killed in the heat of battle, some precipitated them- selves headlong from the bluffs into the river, while a comparatively small number saved themselves by flight. Among the last named was Weatherford, the half-breed leader, who had been an active participant at Fort Mims, and who knew that it would be worse than death for him to fall into the hands of those whom he had so deeply injured. The power of the Creeks was broken forever. Like the Natchez, their name and prowess were relegated to the past, and the " places that knew them, knew them no more for- ever." They defended their homes with a bravery equal to that of the Greeks and Spartans, and but for the cruelties that stained their victories, would live in history as the " bravest of the brave." 5. Among the volunteers who accompanied General Clai- borne on this campaign were many young men who afterward became prominent in the public life of Mississippi. Two of them, Gerard Brandon and Abram Scott, were sub- sequently elected to the governorship of the State. Push- 68 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ma-ta-ha, with his chosen band of Choctaw warriors, covered themselves with glory on this expedition, and their services were adequately rewarded by the authorities of the Territory. 6. General Claiborne died soon after his return from this expedition. After the pride of the haughty Southern Indians had been thoroughly humbled by General Andrew Jackson at the battle of the Horse-shoe Bend and other places, the conquering hero proceeded to the defense of New Orleans, the troops of the Mississippi Territory accom- panying him under the leadership of Colonel Thos. Hinds. They participated in the great battle fought there, rendering important service to the American cause. A company from Natchez, commanded by Captain James C. Wilkins, also distinguished themselves by their bravery in this engage- ment. The war between Great Britain and the United States greatly affected the prosperity of Mississippi Terri- tory by reducing the price of cotton, which was already the staple production of the country. The price of lands went down to one-half their real value, and immigration for the time ceased entirely. Mr. Poindexter, who had represented the Territory in Congress from 1807 to 181 3, was appointed this year one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the Territory. Mr. Lattimore, formerly a delegate to Congress, was elected to succeed Mr. Poindexter. 7. The population of the Territory by this time amounted to about sixty thousand persons, and Congress was peti- tioned to allow the people to form a State Government. Before this was done it was considered expedient to divide the Territory, drawing a line from north to south through- out its entire length, organizing the eastern portion into Alabama Territory and the western into the State of Mississippi. 8. The boundaries of the new State, which was admitted into the Union in 1817, were as follows: On the north by the southern boundary line of the State of Tennessee, east HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 69 by the Territory of Alabama, south by the Gulf of Mexico and Louisiana, and west by the Pearl and Mississippi rivers, which separate it from Louisiana and Arkansas. A narrow strip of land about ninety miles in length and fifteen miles wide extends south of the main body of the State to the Gulf of Mexico. Independently of this tract of land, the State lies between thirty-one and thirty-five degrees north lati- tude, and extends from eighty-eight degrees, twelve minutes, to ninety-one degrees, thirty-six minutes, west longitude. In the northern part the State is about one hundred and sixteen miles wide, but expands to the South to a width of one hundred and eighty-nine miles, and its length, exclusive of the strip bordering on the Gulf, is about two hundred and seventy-five miles. The whole area of the State comprises about forty-seven thousand one hundred and fifty-six square miles. 9. The surface of Mississippi slopes generally toward the south and south-west, as is indicated by the course of the rivers, though a few of them flow to the south-east. The portion bordering on the Mississippi is low and swampy, and between the Mississippi and Yazoo rivers there is an area of nearly seven thousand square miles which is subject to overflow. This portion of the State, now usually spoken of as the Delta, is the most fertile land, perhaps, on the globe, being composed of the rich black, alluvial deposit of ages of overflow. Between Memphis and Vicksburg the country lying on the river from a width of ten to thirty or forty miles is subject to inundation, though numerous levees, erected at a great expenditure of time, money and labor, serve as bulwarks to the greater portion of the country. The south-eastern portion of the State is generally low and undulating; the southern, sandy and level, and covered with pine and cypress swamps. There are no mountains in the State and but few hills. 10. Mississippi is a well-watered State, having numerous 70 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. rivers, lakes and bayous interspersed throughout her bound- aries. The Tennessee river washes its north-eastern boundary, and the Tombigbee rising in this section is navi- gable as far as Aberdeen. The mighty Mississippi laves its whole western border and receives into its bosom from different portions of the State several other streams of con- siderable size. The Yazoo, called by the Indians " The River of Death," is navigable for large boats for a distance of about fifty miles. It is formed by the junction of two smaller rivers, and flows into the Mississippi about twelve miles above Vicksburg. The Big Black, over two hundred miles in length, fifty of which are navigable, flows into the Mississippi just above Grand Gulf. Pearl river, rising near the center of the State, flows through a fertile region into an outlet of Lake Pontchartrain. Below the thirty-first degree of north latitude it forms the boundary line that divides the State from Louisiana, and is navigable for steam- boats for a considerable distance above its mouth. The Pascagoula, which waters the south-eastern section and is navigable for steamboats about one hundred and fifty miles from its mouth, empties into the Pascagoula Sound. ii. The coast extending along the Gulf of Mexico for about sixty miles has only two harbors, and those do not admit large vessels. Ship and Cat Islands, however, are eligible stations for ocean steamers, and the largest fleets might anchor there in safety. The principal ports on the Mississippi are Vicksburg, Grand Gulf and Natchez. Missis- sippi is one of the finest agricultural States in the Union. Over half of its area is remarkable for fertility. In the river, or " bottom" counties, the yield of cotton to the acre is enormous, and all over the State the staple agricultural productions are grown in the greatest abundance. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 71 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XI. What action did Governor Holmes take soon after the fall of Fort Mims? Under whose command were the troops placed ? What plan of warfare had Claiborne and his troops wished to pursue from the first? Why did not General Flournoy issue orders to that effect? What policy did General Andrew Jackson adopt? Why was he the idol of the people of the South-western States? In what secluded place did the Creeks fortify themselves against the attack from the whites? Who was their leader? How did their false "prophet" deceive them? Who led the Choctaws to the attack upon the " Holy Ground?" What was the result of this battle? What two future governors of the State of Mississippi were among the volunteers in this campaign ? When did General Claiborne die ? Where did General Jackson proceed after the battle of Horse-shoe Bend? Who led the Mississippi troops? On what battle-field did they win undying fame? How did the war between Great Britain and the United States affect the prosperity of Mississippi Territory? Career of Mr. Poindexter? Who succeeded him in Congress? Population of the Territory at this time? To what division of Territory and change in the form of government did it lead? Give the boundaries of the new State of Mississippi. When was it admitted into the Union? Between what degrees of latitude does the State lie? Longitude? Dimensions of the State? Whole area of the State? How does the surface of the State slope? What portion of the State is subject to overflow? Character of lands in the Delta? What of lands reclaimed by levees? Other portions of the State? Give the names and general directions of the rivers by which our State is watered. Length and character of our Gulf Coast. Principal ports on the Mississippi. Mississippi's claim as a fine agricultural State. Principal staple. 72 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XII. 1817-1819. 1. The Convention which formed the first Constitution of Mississippi met for that purpose on the first Monday in July, 1 817. It was composed of forty -four delegates from the fourteen counties of Adams, Amite, Claiborne, Franklin, Greene, Hancock, Jackson, Jefferson, Lawrence, Marion, Pike, Warren, Wayne and Wilkinson. Lawrence county was organized in 18 14, and Pike formed out of Marion in 181 5. The Convention met in the old Methodist church in Washington, Adams county. 2. David Holmes, late Governor of the Territory, was made President of the Convention, and Lewis Winston, Secretary. The different members of the body were nearly all representative men — men whose names appear subse- quently in the State's history in connection with positions of honor and renown. At least five of the number were future governors. Adams county sent quite a cluster of historic names — David Holmes, Josiah Simpson, James C. Wilkins, John Taylor, Joseph Sessions, John Steele, Christopher Rankin and Edward Turner. Among those from Jefferson were Cowles Mead, Joseph E. Davis and Cato West. Wilkinson sent George Poindexter, Daniel Williams, Abram M. Scott, John Joor, Gerard C. Brandon and Joseph Johnson. Walter Leake and Joshua G. Clarke were among the delegates from Clai- borne county. 3. The State government, based on the Constitution formed by this Convention, was divided into three depart- ments — the Legislative, Executive and Judicial. The right of suffrage was granted, with some limitations, to every HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 73 adult free, white male citizen of the State, and certain prop- erty qualifications were required of office-holders. 4. The Legislature was to be composed of a House of Representatives and a Senate, and it was directed that the first session of the Legislature should be held at Natchez, beginning on the first Monday in October, 1817, and that afterward it should meet on the first Monday in November in every year, at such place as the law might direct. 5. The supreme executive power of the State was vested in the governor, who must have been a resident of the United States for twenty years and for five years a resident of the State. He was to be chosen by a plurality of votes every two years, and was not to hold the office more than four consecutive years. A lieutenant-governor, possessing the same qualifications as the governor, was to be chosen at the same time and in the same manner. The lieutenant- governor, by virtue of his office, was to be president of the Senate. The governor was made commander-in-chief of the army and navy of the State, and of the militia, except when it should be called into the service of the United States. 6. The judiciary of the State was to consist of one Supreme Court, composed of district judges, a Superior Court of Law and Equity for each county, held by a district judge, while the Legislature was given power to establish a separate Court of Chancery, a Probate Court for each county, and justices of the peace. 7. All civil officers, except coroners, sheriffs, and those already enumerated, were to be appointed by the Legisla- ture. Ministers of the Gospel were excluded from the legislative and executive departments. The militia was to be organized by the Legislature, and was subject to the call of the governor in cases of insurrection or invasion. 8. Judge Poindexter was chairman of the committee appointed by the Convention to draft the Constitution, and to his brilliant, but solid legal attainments, the State is no 74 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. doubt largely indebted for her admirable charter. The State at that time was entitled to only one representative in Congress. Soon after the Convention, Judge Poindexter was elected to fill that office, and immediately took the fore- most place in Congress as an orator and debater. 9. David Holmes, who had filled the office of Territorial Governor with such ability, was elected first Governor of the State of Mississippi. Lyman Harding was appointed Attorney-General, with a salary of one thousand dollars. Shields, Taylor, Hampton and Ellis were appointed judges of the four districts into which the State was divided. Taylor was the first Chief-Justice of the State. 10. The first meeting of the Legislature was continued from October, 181 7, until February, 181 8. A vast amount of work was, of course, involved in arranging the statutes of the new State, and every detail was attended to with the utmost care and precision. Two members of the United States Senate were elected during the session. They were Walter Leake, formerly one of the judges of the Territory, and Thomas H. Williams, who had once been secretary of the same. 11. The Constitution interposed no barrier to the pledge of the State's credit by the Legislature, and provided for the incorporation of banks with State capital. In 1818, the Bank of Mississippi was made a State bank. It was endowed with an additional capital of three million dollars, of which the State was to subscribe for one-fourth. She was also to appoint one-third of the directors. The charter was to run until 1 841, and during that time no other bank was to be incorporated. 12. In 1819, Judge Poindexter made his celebrated speech before the Congress of the United States in defense of the conduct of General Jackson during the Seminole war. As Jackson, during the Creek war, saved Mississippi from the ravages of the Indians, the inhabitants had ever since HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 75 regarded him with peculiar admiration and gratitude, and Judge Poindexter's eloquent defense of the character of the great general only represented the feelings of the entire population of the State. 13. In 1819, Judge Poindexter was elected Governor of Mississippi, being elected over General Thomas Hinds, a soldier of 1812. General Patton, of Wayne county, was elected Lieutenant-Governor. Ex-Governor Holmes, who, as Territorial and State Governor, had served the country for eleven years, was sent to Congress as the successor of Judge Leake. His course in Congress was as blameless and free from mistakes as was his administration while occupying the Governor's chair in Mississippi. 14. Politics, as yet, played a very unimportant part in the elections in Mississippi, the issues being entirely personal. Judge Poindexter and his opponent belonged to the same political party, yet the former received twice the number of votes cast for the latter. The inaugural address of the new Governor, delivered January 5, 1820, was a characteristic production, strong, brilliant and forcible. 15. Governor Poindexter provoked many enemies by his fearless and independent course in public life. As has been said of some other celebrated personage, he was a "good hater," and was generally able to return blow for blow when his motives were assailed. The practice of dueling was very much in vogue during his time, and the polished statesman was seldom without his "affairs of honor." At the same time, he was the idol of his friends, and his worst enemies were forced to admit his ability. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XII. When did the first Constitutional Convention of Mississippi meet? Where? Of how many delegates was it composed, and how many counties did they represent? Who was made President of this Con- 76 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. vention? Representative men of this body? Mention some names that afterward became historic. Into what three departments did this Convention divide the State Government? To whom was the right of suffrage granted? In whom was the Legislative power vested? The Executive? The Judicial? What class of civil officers were to be appointed by the Legislature? Militia? Ministers of the Gospel? To whom is the State largely indebted for her admirable charter? To what high office was Poindexter elected soon after? First Governor of the State of Mississippi ? Attorney-General ? Judges of the four districts into which the State was divided ? When was the first meeting of the Legislature held? What important work was done? Members of the United States Senate elected at this session ? When was the Bank of Mississippi endowed? What celebrated speech was made by Senator Poindexter in 1819? To what State office was he elected the same year ? Who was Judge Leake's successor in Con- gress ? Did politics play an important part in the Mississippi elections ? How did Governor Poindexter render himself unpopular with many? The practice of dueling at that time ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 77 CHAPTER XIII. 1 820-1 82 1. 1. Covington, Perry, Monroe, and Hinds counties were organized by the Legislature of Mississippi during the annual sessions of 1819, 1820 and 1821. In 1820, Congress empow- ered President Monroe, General Jackson, and General Thomas Hinds, of Mississippi, to treat with the Choctaw Indians in reference to the exchanging of a portion of their lands in Mississippi for a domain west of the Mississippi river, where they might be collected and settled together, schools for the education of their children established, and the civilization of the whole tribe promoted. The treaty was made with the " Head Men," or, as it is quaintly worded, with the " Mingoes " of the Choctaw nation, on the 1 8th of October, 1820, and was ratified January 8, 1821. This was the first step taken toward the final removal of the Mississippi Indians from the State. 2. During Governor Poindexter's term of office he was empowered by the Legislature to revise and consolidate the Statutes of the State. The first Act concerning the work was passed February 12, 1821, and by June, 1822, the work was completed. The great erudition and the vast amount of legal lore brought to bear upon this work was worthy of its distinguished author. For many years " Poindexter's Code " continued to be the highest legal authority known in the State. Previous to that time " Turner's Digest," compiled while Mississippi was yet a Territory, was the accepted authority on questions of legal import. In 1 82 1, the Legislature established a Superior Court of Chancery within the State, dividing it into two districts and providing for the appointment of a Chancellor. 78 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Judge Joshua G. Clarke, of Claiborne county, was the first Chancellor appointed in the State. The system of county courts was established in 1822, consisting of a pro- bate judge and two associates, with limited and special jurisdiction. This system remained unaltered until 1832. 3. Public attention about this time was attracted very generally to the cause of education. The Constitution of 1817 contained the following clause: "Religion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good government, the preservation of liberty, and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall be forever encour- aged." It will thus be seen that our noble commonwealth has, from a very early day in its history, fostered education for all classes of its citizens. Thus we find in one of Gov- ernor Poindexter's annual messages the following pertinent suggestion : " The avenues to education and knowledge ought to be made accessible to every youth without distinc- tion of rank. From the humblest cottage surrounded by penury and want, the brightest luminaries of virtue and intellect often burst forth, and the hero or statesman is seen rising from obscurity, to add honor and renown to his country and adorn the pages of its history." 4. The Governor of Mississippi was authorized by the Legislature, in 1821, to obtain the best information possible in regard to the most suitable location of the thirty-six sec- tions of land donated by Congress for the benefit of educa- tion. After the location of these "Seminary Lands," they were leased to the highest bidder and the proceeds appro- priated to the benefit of a corporation established by the Legislature and known as the " Literary Fund," of which the Governor was made president, and other State officers, directors. 5. This Board was required to make an annual report to the Legislature, of the state of the funds committed to its care, and also in regard to the progress of education through- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 79 out the State. At each successive meeting of the Legisla- ture for a number of years, the cause of education received the closest attention. Commissioners were appointed in each county for the supervision and distribution of the edu- cational fund and the employment of instructors who would " exert their best endeavors to impress on the minds of children and youth committed to their care and instruction the principles of piety, justice, and a sacred regard to truth ; love to their country, humanity, and universal benevolence; sobriety, industry and frugality ; chastity, moderation and temperance, and those other virtues which are the ornaments of human society and the basis upon which the Republican Constitution is structured." 6. An act of the Legislature of 1826 required the Governor to subscribe, in behalf of the State, for one hundred and twenty shares of the stock of the Bank of Missouri, to be applied to the benefit of the " Literary Fund." 7. On the 1 2th of February, 182 1, the Legislature of Mis- sissippi, growing tired of its wandering life, appointed a commission to select a site for the permanent location of the seat of government. Two sections were to be selected in the country lately ceded to the United States by the Choc- taw Indians, and were to be situated within twenty miles of the true center of the State, including that part occupied by Indian tribes. This act was afterward amended, and the commissioners authorized to select the "east halves of sec- tions three and ten, and the west halves of two and eleven, in township five, range one, east of the basis meridian," as a permanent location for the capital of the State. They were also authorized to lay off a town on such part of the location and on such plan as they might consider advisable. In honor of the hero of New Orleans, the brave soldier who had saved the Territory of Mississippi from the horrors of Indian warfare, the new capital was called Jackson. 8. After the location of the site of the capital, a Superin- 80 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. tendent of Public Buildings was at once appointed. To induce settlers to make Jackson their future home, the Superintendent was authorized to grant a right of preference in town lots to such persons as would agree to build log or frame house thereon, giving them two years in which to make payment to the State. Lots for religious and char- itable purposes and for a public cemetery were also laid off. A suitable lot on which to build a court-house, in case Jack- son should be the seat of justice for the county in which it should be situated, was reserved. The new town was situated at an eligible spot on Pearl river, on its western bank, the river being navigable for steamboats to that point. 9. The plan for the capital city was accepted by the Legislature on the 30th of June, 1822. Public squares, designated respectively, "Capitol Green," "College Green" and "Court Green," were reserved exclusively and in per- petuity for the use and benefit of the city. A piece of land on each side of Pearl river, within the limits of the town, was reserved for the use of a ferry, which was to be leased for the benefit of the corporation. 10. At the time of its location, Jackson was very near the center of population, but with the ceaseless tide of immigra- tion that has since poured into the State, it has long since ceased to occupy a central position. Attempts have been made at various times to transfer the seat of government to other localities, Vicksburg having at one time been strongly recommended ; but Jackson having in the course of time gained a strong hold upon the affections of the people, all efforts looking toward a removal were defeated. The capi- tol building and executive mansion were not erected within several years after the city was laid off. The meetings of the Legislature were held in a plain wooden building, the Senate occupying the upper and the House of Representa- tives the lower rooms. 11. Jackson is now an important and growing city, and HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 81 is the junction for a network of railway lines that traverse all portions of the State. Cotton in large quantities is shipped from that point, and the city has an extensive and growing trade. The city is regularly laid out, and many handsome private and public buildings are located within its limits. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XIII. What counties were organized from 1819 to 1821 ? What commis- sion was empowered by Congress in 1820 to treat with the Choctaw Indians? When and between whom was the treaty made? When ratified? What of " Poindexter's Code?" What court was estab- lished in 1821? First Chancellor of the State? System of courts? What striking clause from the Constitution of 181 7 in regard to educa- tion ? Give the extract from the Governor's Message relating to the same subject. What authority did the Legislature of 1821 bestow upon the Governor? What of the "Literary Fund?" What was required of the officers controlling this fund? Act of the Legislature of 1826? What of the commission appointed to select a site for a permanent State capital? Conditions required? Amendment to the Act? For whom was the new capital named? What public officer was appointed after the location of the capital? What efforts were made to induce settlers to locate in the new city? How is the city located geographically? Public squares? Is Jackson situated near the center of the population of the State ? What attempts have been made to change the location of the seat of government? Why have they always failed? In what place did the State Legislature hold its first meeting at Jackson? Jackson as a railway center? As a cotton market ? 82 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XIV. 1821-1825. 1. Natchez, which for several years was the seat of the Territorial Government of Mississippi, was formerly distin- guished as the social and intellectual center of the State. It was the home of wealth and refinement, many prominent lawyers, merchants and planters residing there. It has always been the true type of a Southern city ; its streets broad, shaded, and handsomely laid off ; its residences orna- mented with large yards and beautiful gardens. From the first it was a great shipping port for cotton, its steamboats having connection with the entire Mississippi valley. The first cotton shipped by steamboat on the Mississippi river was sent from Natchez. 2. Vicksburg is of much later origin than Natchez, the city proper dating back to about the beginning of Governor Poindexter's administration. Previous to that time the point at which it is situated was known as Walnut Hills, or, as it was called by the Spaniards, Fort Noagles. Rev. Newett Vick and his son-in-law, Rev. John Lane, both Metho- dist preachers, were the founders of the present city of Vicksburg. When they reached the Territory of Mississippi, the country around Walnut Hills was one unbroken forest, except a level tract of land to the north-east of where the city now stands, which, on account of its having been cleared of timber by the fires of the Indians, was known as the "Open Woods." 3. Mr. Vick originated the plan of. laying off a large city on the present site of Vicksburg, but, unfortunately for the city, died before his arrangements were matured. Mr. Lane took up the unfinished work and carried it out with ability HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 83 and fidelity. When the value of the proposed city was dis- played by the maturing of Mr. Vick's plans, numerous con- testants for the property arose, and the whole was at once enveloped in a net-work of litigation, which was "protracted through many years. 4. Notwithstanding the obstacles in the shape of litigation that lay in the way, the city flourished from the time it was laid out. Lots were surveyed and sold with wonderful rapidity, the city and the heirs of Mr. Vick sharing the profits equally. The old -Spanish fort stood about one and one-fourth miles distant from the present court-house. There was at one time a cemetery near the river in front of the fort, but the waters of the Mississippi encroaching upon it, gradually washed it away. Vicksburg, like Natchez, has always been noted for the wealth and culture of its inhabi- tants. The court-house was for many years at Warrenton, and for many years Wm. L. Sharkey was the only lawyer in the county, so that when both sides of a question were to be argued, one of the parties to the lawsuit had to go else- where for counsel. 5. In 1820, the road leading eastward to Mount Salus, since called Clinton, was opened, and in 1824 an appropria- tion was made by the Legislature to extend it to Jackson. In 1822, Governor Poindexter was succeeded by Judge Leake, formerly Congressman from the State, and a mem- ber of the first Convention. On the expiration of his term of office, Mr. Poindexter became a candidate for Congress. Christopher Rankin, who had also been a leading member of the Convention of 1817, was his opponent, and, for the first time in his political career, Mr. Poindexter was defeated. This was attributed to an unpopular clause in his " Revised Code," though his opponent was an eminent lawyer and a practical statesman, worthy of the confidence reposed in him. 6. Governor Leake was a strong advocate of the cause of 84 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. public education, and it was mainly through his exertions that the Legislature took such important and repeated action upon this subject. He made constant and effective appeals not only to the Legislature, but to the people themselves, in behalf of education. The country developed rapidly during his term of office. Its natural resources began to be discov- ered and appreciated. It was discovered that not only cot- ton, but corn, wheat, and other grains ; sugar-cane, rice, potatoes, and other vegetables ; fruits of nearly every variety, and melons in abundance, could be raised in Mis- sissippi. 7. The immense forests of long-leaf pine had, from the earliest period of colonization, attracted the attention of ship- builders, and it was found that the upland country was cov- ered with a fine growth of the different varieties of oak, hickory, poplar and maple, while the bottoms were covered with immense cypress-brakes, rendering the supply of tim- ber in the State almost inexhaustible. Immigration from the older States was constantly attracted by these advantages, and the population showed a marked increase from year to year. 8. During Governor Leake's term, citizenship was con- ferred upon the different tribes of Indians within the State, the laws being applied to them in the same manner as to the white inhabitants. About this time the r policy of Gen- eral Jackson in regard to the removal of the Indians to a separate territory far to the west of the Mississippi was adopted by the general government. This caused great discontent among the Mississippi Indians, especially among the Choctaws, who, by living on such terms of friendship and intimacy with the whites, had acquired a degree of civ- ilization which had not been attained by the other tribes. 9. In 1823-4, their two half-breed chiefs, Greenwood Le Flore and David Folsom, were at the height of their fame and influence. By acquiescing in the demands of the United HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 85 States for the removal of their tribe, they incurred the dis- pleasure of the entire nation and lost forever an influence which had been almost regal in power, while the two chiefs, Nuckatachie and Mushulatubbe, who were bitterly opposed to the contemplated movement, gained what their colleagues had lost. From this time until the final treaty, which con- summated the plan of removal, there was open enmity between the leaders of the Choctaws, which, but for the sagacity and forbearance of the half-breed chiefs, would have terminated in bloodshed. 10. At the expiration of four years, Governor Leake was succeeded by David Holmes, who resigned his seat in Congress to take the governor's chair. Though somewhat advanced in years and in declining health, he still occupied the first place in the hearts of the people. Judge Powhattan Ellis was appointed to the place in Congress made vacant by the resignation of Governor Holmes. ii. The two political parties in Mississippi in those days were the "Federalists" and the " Republicans," though the difference of opinion between the adherents of each was not marked and was characterized by but little of the bitterness of modern politics. Slavery, that great element of future discord, had not, as yet, become the theme of public discus- sion, as all New England had, until within a recent period, been engaged openly in the slave trade. 12. Politicians dealt very strongly in personalities in those days. The public press was becoming a very powerful agent in affairs of State and government, and candidates for political preferment were learning to respect the opinions of political editors. Appeals to the so-called " Code of Honor" were not infrequent, and a man lost nothing in reputation by being an expert duelist. 13. Governor Holmes entered upon the duties of his office while the country was enjoying an unexampled degree of prosperity. 86 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. He was authorized by the Legislature soon after his inauguration to collect from the general government from time to time the amount to which the State was entitled from the proceeds of the sales of public lands. The amount collected was deposited in the State treasury and the Treasurer authorized to open an account called the "three per cent, fund," which could be used only for such purposes as the law of the State might direct. 14. The prospect of the extinguishment of the Indian titles greatly enhanced the value of lands in Mississippi. New settlements were cleared in the fertile wilderness, immense plantations, sometimes embracing thousands of acres, were opened and cultivated, by African slaves, whose merry songs resounded in strange contrast to the ancient warwhoop and cruel death-song of the savage Indian. The older Southern States poured an unceasing tide of immigra- tion into the boundaries of the new "Cotton State," and life in Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Tennessee and Ken- tucky was reproduced in the plantations of Mississippi on a new and often more magnificent plan. 15. In Georgia the question of the extinguishment of the Indian titles had brought the country almost to the verge of civil war, so slow was the general government in fulfilling its promises that the Indians should be removed as soon as possible; much ill-feeling between the State and the United States was engendered by the delay. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XIV. For what has Natchez from the first been distinguished? Streets and residences ? Shipping port? How far back does Vicksburg date? Who were the founders of the present city of Vicksburg? Who origi- nated the plan of the city? Who carried it out? What litigation arose concerning it? For what has Vicksburg always been noted? What appropriation was made by the Legislature in 1824? Who succeeded HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 87 Governor Poindexter? Who defeated Poindexter for a seat in Congress ? To what was his defeat attributable ? In what vital ques- tion was Governor Leake very much interested? How were the natural resources of the country developed during his administration ? What of the forests of long-leafed pine in the State? Other trees of native growth? Immigration from the older States? When was citizenship conferred upon the different tribes of Indians in the State? What policy was adopted by the general government in its dealing with the Indians? What tribe was found to be most susceptible of civilization ? What two half-breed Indian chiefs were at the height of their influence at this time? How did they incur the displeasure of their tribe? What two native chiefs gained the place in the affections of the tribe that had been lost by Le Flore and Folsom ? What alone prevented a bloody ending to this feud? Who succeeded Governor Leake ? Who succeeded Governor Holmes in Congress ? What two political parties in Mississippi at this time? Had slavery yet become an element of discord? Influence of the public press? Appeals to the " Code of Honor? " Condition of the country at the beginning of Governor Holmes' administration? What authority did the Legis- lature confer upon him ? For what purposes alone could the "three per cent, fund" be used? What enhanced greatly the value of lands in the State ? Class of laborers best suited to these lands ? 88 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XV. 1825-1829. 1. Aside from the encouragement given to the cause of education by the State, private incorporations were being established in the older and more populous regions. Aside from Jefferson College, at Natchez, which had been estab- lished while Mississippi was yet a Territory, there were several highly respectable institutions of learning, all of which were enjoying a lucrative patronage. During the first year of Governor Holmes' administration (1825), Mississippi College, at Clinton, was incorporated. Sustained by the Baptist church, it has ever been an impor- tant factor in the educational policy of the State. Between the years 1814 and 1830 Wilkinson county had organized and was sustaining six academies of learning, and had char- tered the Jacksonian Library, at Woodville. Natchez and Washington, both in Adams county, each had a " Female Academy," chartered in 1819. " Franklin Academy," at Columbus, in Lowndes county, was established in 1821. 2. In 1823, the counties of Copiah, Holmes, Kemper, Yazoo, and Jasper were formed; in 1824-6, Simpson, Jones, and Warren ; in 1827-8, Washington, Madison, and Rankin. In 1827, Powhattan Ellis and Thomas B. Reed were elected to the Senate of the United States, and Thomas Hinds to the House of Representatives. 3. In the summer of 1827, a protracted drought seriously affected the planting interests of Mississippi. Fortunately, the autumn season for gathering crops was milder and more protracted than usual, so that the farmers were enabled to save their entire crops, else many would have suffered for the actual necessities of life. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 89 The regular election for State and county officers fell on that year, and considerable political excitement existed. As a large proportion of the voters of the State represented agricultural interests, they were anxious to have one of their number represent them in the governor's office. Gerard C. Brandon, a prominent planter of Wilkinson county, who had already served the State as lieutenant-governor, was chosen for that purpose. Governor Brandon had been one of the leading members of the Convention of 1817, and previous to that time had been a soldier in the regular army. 4. At the commencement of hostilities between Great Britain and the United States, in 18 12, he received a cap- tain's commission in one of the Mississippi regiments, and continued in the service until, at the urgent solicitation of Governor Holmes, he returned to Washington, Adams county, in order to take measures for the defense of the unprotected settlers, who were threatened with an incursion from the hostile Indians. He afterward rejoined the army, under the command of General John Joor, which arrived in New Orleans a few days after the battle of the 8th of January, 181 5, and was stationed at Bayou St. John, on Lake Pontchartrain. 5. At the time of his election to the office of governor, Gerard Brandon was engaged in cotton-planting, being the owner of some of the finest lands in the State. Abram M. Scott, who had served with Governor Brandon, was elected lieutenant-governor. During this campaign there were no less than five candidates each for the offices of governor and lieutenant-governor. Three out of the five candidates for governor were named Williams. 6. At the meeting of the Legislature in January, 1828, William L. Sharkey represented the county of Warren, this being his first entrance into public life. From the report of Hiram G. Runnels, auditor of public accounts, we find that 90 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. there remained in the treasury, after deducting the literary and three per cent, fund, a balance of $21,210.94. The inaugural address of the new Governor was delivered on the 9th of January, 1828. He congratulated the people of the State that peace and prosperity reigned within their borders. 7. That portion of the message referring to slavery deserves particular notice, as showing the attitude of Southern statesmen at that day toward this peculiar institu- tion, for the existence of which they were in nowise responsible. Many of the Southern States had at that time passed laws for the regulation of the sale of negroes within their borders. As there was no law in Mississippi against the importation of negroes from other States for purposes of traffic, the older slave States, especially the middle ones, where negro labor was unprofitable, sent their surplus black population here for sale. Governor Brandon protested against this custom, contending that "the large number of negroes annually brought into the State afforded ample grounds for serious apprehension in the minds of the white inhabitants; that slavery at best was an evil which invariably operated unfavorably against the poorer classes of communities into which it was introduced, by destroying the mutual depend- ence which would otherwise exist between the rich and the poor, and excluding from the State, in proportion to the number of slaves, a free white population, through the means of which alone can Mississippi expect to take rank with the other States of the Union. The State should, in her own defense, adopt such measures as should, as far as practicable, prevent the introduction of slaves for sale." 8. In 1828, the Choctaw Indians held the "Grand Coun- cil" of their nation, for the purpose of ascertaining the general feeling among the people in regard to the relinquish- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 91 ment of their lands east of the Mississippi river to the United States, and the subsequent removal of the entire tribe to the Indian Territory. The solicitations of the agents of the Government, com- bined with the influence of Greenwood Le Flore and David Folsom, had overcome the reluctance of a large portion of the tribe to leave Mississippi, which was so rapidly being peopled by the white and black races. 9. The influence of Nutackachie and Mushulatubbe proved to be far stronger than had been anticipated, as it was decided in the " Grand Council " that the tribe was not yet ready for the ratification of the final treaty with the United States. The two full-blooded Indian chiefs per- suaded their followers, for a time at least, that Le Flore and Folsom were traitors to their own people, and in league with the Government to defraud them of their rights. 10. Missionary labor among the Choctaws had developed many interesting facts concerning their manners, customs and peculiar traditions. Before the advent of the whites, they believed in a Great Spirit, who made and ruled all things. The highest class among them were the Medicine- men, who healed the sick, and were considered to have magical powers of incantation. Like other Indians, the Choctaws believed death to be only a short journey to a happier hunting-ground. His pipe and tobacco, implements of warfare and hunting, and sometimes his favorite horse, were buried with him, in the belief that in the future state of existence he would need them. 11. The Choctaw women were the bread-winners and burden-bearers of the tribe. They planted and cultivated the crops, which consisted of small patches of corn and beans, provided fuel, made baskets and other articles of traffic, and provided for the wants of their households in various ways. Venison or bear's meat, with lye hominy, constituted their favorite meal. They were very fond of 92 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. dress, and adorned themselves with a profusion of paint, feathers and jewelry. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XV. What of the progress of education in the State? When had "Jefferson College," at Natchez, been established? When was Missis- sippi College, at Clinton, established? " What counties were formed in 1823? In 1827-8? Senators in the National Legislature in 1827? Who was elected to the National House of Representatives at the same time? What affected the planting interests of the State in 1827? Why was it thought best that the next Governor should represent the farming element of the State? Who was chosen for that purpose? How had he on two former occasions served his State? Give an outline of his public career. Who was elected Lieutenant-Governor? What is worthy of mention in connection with this campaign? First entrance of Wm. L. Sharkey into public life? Mention that portion of Governor Brandon's inaugural address deserving particular notice? Why was the "Grand Council" of the Choctaws held in 1828? What change had come over the feelings of the Choctaws in reference to leaving their homes? What, however, was decided by the "Grand Council?" To whose influence was this due? What interesting facts had missionary labor developed regarding the Choctaws? Their belief in a Great Spirit? Medicine-men? Happy hunting-grounds? What of the Choctaw Indians? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 93 CHAPTER XVI. 1829-1831. 1. During Governor Brandon's term of office many plans of internal improvement were contemplated by the State, the Legislature, at one time, creating a " Board of Internal Improvement," consisting of the Governor and three com- missioners, one from each of the three different sections of the State, northern, eastern and western. The duties of this Board were the direction of "the improvement of the navigable rivers in the State, the construction of roads, and such other improvements as might be necessary." The aim of this plan was good, but its workings were not con- sidered practicable, and it was finally abandoned. 2. In no other particular can the prosperity of a country be more strikingly manifested than by the construction of roads and other means of internal communication, and this fact was appreciated by the government and people of Mississippi at this period. After the failure of the contem- plated "Board of Improvement," special laws were enacted in reference to the construction of public highways, the opening up of navigable streams, and the establishment of ferries and bridges. The levee system, which afterward helped to redeem some of the finest lands in the State, did not come into general use until a much later period. 3. The excitement concerning the disestablishment of the National Bank, engendered by the action of Andrew Jackson while President, reached fever height during the next few years. Many of the citizens of Mississippi at this time were in favor of locating a branch of the United States Bank at Natchez, on the expiration of the charter of the Bank of Mississippi, which would occur in a few years from 94 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. that time. Governor Brandon opposed this plan, believing that it would be more beneficial to the general welfare of the State to establish banking institutions in different portions of her own territory, in the stock of which "she could either^become a participant or require a bonus from the stockholders equal to the prerogative they might enjoy." He believed that the introduction of a branch of the National Bank would defeat the establishment of State banks, and he recommended the resistance of the measure to the State Legislature. The fictitious prosperity which swept like a wave over the State of Mississippi about this time is often alluded to as the " Flush times in Mississippi." " Wild-cat Banks," as they were called, were established at nearly every "cross-road" town in the State, and the country was flooded with paper currency, necessarily very much depre- ciated in value. As a consequence, fortunes were made and lost in a day, and before this second " Mississippi Bubble ,: had exploded, half the population of the State was reduced to bankruptcy. 4. In 1828-9 the accounts which had remained unsettled between the States of Alabama and Mississippi ever since the division of their Territory were adjusted by the Governors of the two States. In 1829 Governor Brandon and Lieutenaut-Governor Scott were re-elected to their respective offices. Governor Brandon was perhaps the most popular Governor of his generation. He was a man of advanced and practical views, as is evidenced by his utterances on the subject of slavery, the advancement of popular education, and the preservation of the purity of the ballot-box. His ideas were far in advance of the times in which he lived, and their wisdom has been confirmed by successive generations of law-makers. 5. The receipts from the Treasurer of the United States, on account of the "three per cent, fund," amounted to a considerable sum annually, and were appropriated by the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 95 State towards the encouraging of settlers in new and sparsely-settled portions of the country, and to the making of roads by which the transportation of the produce of their lands to market would be facilitated. Railroads in connec- tion with this State were not even dreamed of at this period. 6. Thomas B. Reed, who had represented Mississippi in Congress since 1826, died in 1829, and the friends of ex-Governor Poindexter announced his name as a candidate for successor to the vacancy thus caused, although, on account of declining years and health, he had been obliged to refuse an appointment to the office of Chancellor made by Governor Brandon. On this account, Mr. Poindexter refused to use his personal influence in favor of obtaining the seat in Congress, though by so doing he might have gained it, notwithstanding the strenuous opposition of his political enemies. 7. The opposing candidate for Congress was Robert H. Adams, a young and popular lawyer of Natchez. In the contest that ensued in the Legislature between the friends of Adams and Poindexter, the latter was defeated, although the influence of the Governor and other prominent officials was used in his behalf. Adams served only one session in Congress, his death occurring in the summer of 1830, at a time when his life gave promise of great usefulness and ability. His premature death was regarded as a public calamity, even his political enemies acknowledging his extraordinary qualifications for the place he held. 8. Governor Brandon immediately appointed Mr. Poin- dexter to fill the vacancy in Congress, and at the next regular election on the 19th of November, 1830, he was chosen unanimously to fill the office for another term. It is said that on this occasion some of the citizens of the State carried their preference for Mr. Poindexter to such lengths as to instruct their delegates to "vote for him, dead or alive." From this we gather that political warmth and 96 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. enthusiasm are not confined to any particular day or genera- tion. 9. On the 15th of September, 1830, the famous treaty of "Dancing Rabbit Creek" was consummated. It was signed on the part of the United States by General John Coffee and John H. Eaton, agents, and on the part of the Choctaws, the other contracting party, by their " Mingoes, Chiefs, Captains, and Warriors." By this treaty the Choctaws ceded, with the exception of some small reserva- tions, all the lands that remained to them east of the Missis- sippi to the Government of the United States. 10. The Government agreed to have the ceded lands sur- veyed and to allow no one to settle thereon until after the removal of the Choctaws. If it had kept faith in this particular, one very dark page in the history of our State need never have been written. The Indians, though reluctant to leave their lands, seemed for the most part to regard it as their inexorable destiny, and, with the stoicism peculiar to their race, set about making preparations for the change. They were very generous in their treatment of their old chieftains, not excepting Greenwood Le Flore and David Folsorn, who, about the time the treaty was made with the Government, had incurred the displeasure of their tribe to such an extent that for a time their lives were considered to be in jeopardy. Each of the four leading chiefs had a reservation of four sections of land assigned him by the terms of the treaty, two of which were to include the sections on which they had already located, the other two to be left to their own selection, the only stipulation being that they were to be chosen from unoccupied lands. 11. Le Flore and Nuckatachie were to receive the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars annually for the remainder of their lives. Mushulatubbe was to receive one hundred dollars annually, having already been granted a pension of one hundred and fifty dollars annually by the provisions of HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 97 a former treaty. The Choctaws were not unmindful of their veterans who had risked their lives in fighting the battles of their nation, and made special provisions for the "few Choctaw warriors yet surviving who marched and fought in the army with General Wayne." The commis- sioners reserved two sections and a half of land to John Pitchlyn, an interpreter, who for forty years had acted in the service of the United States; also a section to each one of his children. 12. That famous warrior of the Choctaws, Push-ma-ta-ha, who had proven his devotion to the whites on many a bloody battle-field, was at one time sent to Washington City as a delegate from his tribe to the general government. While there, the veteran chieftain died, and his wife was left in extreme poverty, being too old and feeble to provide for herself. To her and to the widow of Puck-ts-hen-ubbee, another celebrated Choctaw warrior, the treaty of "Danc- ing Rabbit " assigned four sections of land each. 13. A special grant of land west of the Mississippi river, in what is known as the Indian Territory, was made by the Government to the Choctaws. In consideration of this grant, the Choctaws relinquished their claim on all lands east of the Mississippi, and agreed to remove to their new homes as early as possible. The fourteenth article of this treaty afterward became a source of trouble to the Government and to the people of the State. It provided that those heads of Choctaw families who wished to remain and become citizens of the State should be allowed to do so, on complying with certain condi- tions, a reservation of land proportioned to the needs of the family being set aside for their support. A large number of Indians wished to remain on these terms, and as the lands were in great demand for white settlers, the agents of the Government had great difficulty in reconciling the claims of different parties. 7 '98 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 14. In addition to the grant of land west of the Mississippi, the United States agreed to pay to the Choctaws the sum of twenty thousand dollars for twenty consecutive years after their removal to the West. Notwithstanding these advantageous terms, many of the tribe were, to the last, opposed to the treaty, and the dissatisfaction with Le Flore and Folsom, who had promoted the treaty, broke out afresh, and they never afterward regained the influence they had lost. Neither of them accompanied the tribe in its removal from the State. 15. As has been said before, the majority of the Choctaws were bitterly opposed to the sale of their lands and the wholesale removal of their tribe to the West. The Govern- ment pursued a vacillating policy towards them, the " Indian question" having now become an issue in national politics, and their " removal " or " non-removal " the watchword of the two parties. The Whigs opposed their removal on the grounds of justice and humanity to an inferior race which needed civilizing, while that party of which General Andrew Jackson was the honored exponent, believed that, as a matter of policy, if not of safety, it was best to remove them to what was then known as the "Far West." The great tidal wave of immigration that had now set in toward the South-west decided the question irrespectively of either party, and the poor Indian, forced to leave the home and graves of his fathers, turned his face westward with many a backward look toward the rising sun. Many individual members of the once proud and warlike Choctaws refused to be governed by the treaty which their leaders had signed, and years afterward were to be found in poverty and degra- dation and want, lingering fondly around the spots that once contained their ancestral wigwams. Many died of hunger and exposure, and those who survived to an ignoble old age were filled with hatred toward a government which HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 99 they believed had perpetrated a crime in depriving them of their homes. 16. Greenwood Le Flore was the son of a French trader, who had gained great wealth by his dealings with the Indians, and a Choctaw woman of great beauty of form and feature. The young half-breed in early life gave promise of great ability, and the father, anxious that his son should become a leader of his people, sent him to a school in Nashville, Tennessee, where he received a thorough and liberal educa- tion. After his return from school, though still quite young, he was chosen leader of his tribe, the voters of which having borrowed the idea from the whites, used the ballot-box for the first time. Finding himself at the head of a brave and generous people, the noble young chief set himself to the work of educating and elevating them. Schools were established, ancient superstitions abolished, and the rites of marriage and burial established according to civilized usages. Until the meeting of the "Grand Council," where their leaders were divided in policy, the Choctaws loved and trusted Le Flore implicitly, and placed themselves entirely under his guidance and control. After the treaty of " Danc- ing Rabbit," finding the affection of the tribe alienated, he contented himself, instead of trying to regain his influence, with improving the splendid grant of land reserved to him by the terms of the treaty. Those unfortunate Indians who remained behind after the majority of the tribe had left found in him a friend and protector, while the early white settlers of that portion of the country found him equally true to their interests. He was so universally beloved and respected that he was chosen, at one time, to represent the citizens of Carroll county in the State Senate. His descendants are among the best people of the State, and his name is perpetuated by Le Flore county, and its capital, Greenwood. Thus is the memory of the faithful Choctaws kept green among the people they loved and served so well. 100 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 17. On the 20th of October, 1832, the Chickasaws ceded their entire possessions east of the Mississippi river to the Government of the United States. The treaty was ratified by the whole nation assembled in Grand Council at the Council House, on Pontotoc Creek, and signed on behalf of the United States by General Coffee, agent. As in the treaty with the Choctaws, the Government agreed to have the whole country surveyed and prepared for sale as early as possible, and, as in the former case, the matter was delayed until much discontent and bad feeling arose. The President was to offer the lands for sale on the same condi- tions as other public lands, and the Chickasaws were to receive all the money arising from these sales, after the expenses of surveying and selling the same were deducted. Naturally, the Chickasaws became indignant at the non- fulfillment of this promise, and bad feelings were engendered on both sides. 18. Like the Choctaws, the Chickasaws, in their treaties with the Government, made provisions for their aged and infirm chieftains. Mail routes, indispensable in carrying out the terms of the treaty, were established throughout their country. One of these routes led from Tuscumbia, Alabama, to Rankin, Mississippi; another from Memphis, Tennessee, by the way of the Land Office, to Cotton Gin, Mississippi. And so, by inexorable destiny in the shape of the United States Government, these two, noblest of the native tribes of Mississippi, were forced to leave the hunt- ing-grounds of their fathers and migrate to a strange, new land across the Father of Waters, whither it is not the province of this history to follow them. As hunters and warriors neither tribe had superiors on the American Conti- nent, and had the question of their exodus been left to force of arms, they might have remained much longer in their homes. It was the superior diplomacy of the whites and the solemn promise of the United States Government that HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 101 Lit last caused them reluctantly to sell their birthright in this fair land for only a tithe of its real value. In February, 1830, the " Planters' Bank" was established at Natchez, with a capital of three millions of dollars, of which two millions were reserved for the State. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XVI. What plans of internal improvement were made during Governor Brandon's term of office? What is a striking manifestation of the prosperity of a country? Show how the Government and people of that day appreciated this fact. What of the " Levee System ? " What of the excitement concerning the National Bank during Andrew Jack- son's term of office? How did Governor Brandon differ in opinion with many of the people of the State on this question? What caused the " Flush Times in Mississippi ? " What was styled " Wild-Cat Bank- ing?" Consequences to the people of the State? Adjustment of accounts between the States of Alabama and Mississippi ? Re-elec- tion of the Governor and Lieutenant-Governor? Character of Gov- ernor Brandon? How did the State appropriate the receipts from the "Three per cent. Fund?" When did Congressman Thos. B. Reed die, and who was named as a candidate for the vacancy ? Cause of failure to elect Mr. Poindexter? Who was the successful candidate? How long did he serve? How was his early death considered ? Who was appointed to fill the vacancy thus caused? What of the treaty of " Dancing Rabbit? " What did the Choctaws cede to the United States by the terms of this treaty? What did the Government promise on its part? Was this treaty faithfully kept on each side? How did the Indians seem to regard their removal? Mention their generous treatment of the four leading chiefs. What of their pensions of the veterans of former wars? Death of Push-ma-ta-ha ? How was his wife provided for? Whither were the Choctaws removed? What article of the treaty of " Dancing Rabbit" afterward became a source of trouble to the Government? Explain how? In addition to the grant of land, what sum of money did the Government agree to pay to the Choctaws? Did the four leading chiefs accompany the tribe west of the Mississippi? What policy has been pursued by the Gov- ernment of the United States on the " Indian Question ? " Did it ever become a factor in politics ? Sides espoused by the Whigs and 102 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Democrats, respectively ? What of individual members of the Choc- taw nation? Give a sketch of the life of Greenwood Le Flore. Show how he advanced the civilization of his tribe. How did he employ himself after the treaty of " Dancing Rabbit? " In what year did the Chickasaws cede their possessions to the Government of the United States ? When and where was the treaty ratified by the tribe? To what did the Government agree? How was bad feeling engen- dered ? Characteristics of the Choctaws and Chickasaws? Are they to be condemned for being unwilling to leave their homes? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 103 CHAPTER XVII. 1831-1833-1835. 1. Natchez, from an early period, was noted for the num- ber and brilliancy of her public men. The famous states- man and orator, Sargent S. Prentiss, laid the foundation of his future career there at a time when the attention of the whole country was absorbed in the transactions between the Government and the Indians. Prentiss was a native of Portland, Maine; was born in 1808, and came to Natchez in 1827. He had received a liberal education, and engaged in teaching school for a while before beginning the practice of law. Robert J. Walker, afterward a noted statesman, was the legal preceptor of Prentiss, who, in 1829, entered upon the practice of law in Natchez, though in a few years he removed to Vicksburg, and formed a partnership with Judge Guion, one of the most prominent lawyers of the State. 2. Robert J. Walker emigrated to Natchez from Pennsyl- vania in 1826. He soon achieved high standing at a bar already crowded with men of talent, and in 1828 was appointed to make a report of the decisions of the Supreme Court, from its establishment in 1818 until 1832, when the entire system of the judiciary was changed. The work, under the title of " First Mississippi Reports," was consid- ered a masterpiece of literary ability and legal learning. 3. In 1 83 1, Abram M. Scott, who had served two terms as Lieutenant-Governor, was elected Governor. The State rep- resentatives in Congress from 1828 up to this time were W. Haille, Franklin E. Plummer, Harry Cage and David Holmes. The country was at this time in the full enjoyment of peace and prosperity. In 1832 a convention was called for the 104 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. purpose of revising and amending the first Constitution of the State. It met at Jackson on the ioth of September, and continued in session until the 26th of October, 1832. Delegates from twenty-six counties were present, presided over by Judge Pray. 4. The Revised Constitution adopted by this convention presents some important amendments to the Constitution of 18 17. One was the abolition of the office of lieutenant- governor. Unlimited tenure in office and property qualifica- tions for office or suffrage were also abolished. The judiciary of the State underwent a complete revision. It was now made to consist of a High Court of Errors and Appeals, a Superior Court of Chancery, District Chancery Courts, and District, or Circuit, Courts. The officers of courts, instead of being appointed, were to be elected. 5. Judge William L. Sharkey was the first Chief Justice elected under the provisions of the new Constitution. He was a profound lawyer, a public man of the most exalted integrity, and a citizen whose private character was unas- sailable. He had been a resident of Mississippi from his boyhood, and had labored arduously and incessantly to advance the rising fortunes of the State. He held the office of Chief Justice of Mississippi for eighteen years. 6. In 1 83 1, the first railroad and telegraph company in the State was incorporated under the name of the " West Feliciana." It extended from Woodville to St. Francisville. The road from Vicksburg to Jackson was incorporated the same year. In 1833 the road from Grand Gulf to Port Gib- son was chartered, and afterward the building of a new railroad through the State was almost a yearly occurrence. The State improved with equal rapidity in other particulars. 7. Ex-Governor David Holmes died on the 20th of August, 1832. At the time of his death he was a member of the Lower House of Congress from Mississippi. He was suc- ceeded by Powhattan Ellis, who in turn was succeeded by HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 105 John Black, who, under the new Constitution, was elected for the full term. 8. In 1833, under the provisions of the Revised Constitu- tion, fourteen new counties were organized, mostly out of GOVERNOR DAVID HOLMES the territory acquired from the Choctaws. These were Attala, Carroll, Choctaw, Leake, Lauderdale, Scott, Smith, Tallahatchie, Winston, Yallabusha, Neshoba, Noxubee and Oktibbeha. The Chickasaw cession was not divided into counties until several years later. 9. In February, 1833, the Legislature passed anti-tariff and anti-nullification resolutions. Great excitement pre- vailed throughout the entire country on account of the contest between President Jackson and the United States Bank, and also on account of the nullification doctrines promulgated by South Carolina. 10. National politics had almost entirely absorbed ques- tions of a local character in Mississippi. The " Whig " and 106 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. " Democratic " parties had superseded the old organizations, which for many years had nearly evenly divided politicians and people. Andrew Jackson was the national leader of the Democratic party, Henry Clay of the Whigs. A new party was also forming in the South, although its growth was at first very slow. This was the " States' Rights Party," whose cardinal doctrine was the sovereignty of each State over its own actions. This party in South Carolina, led by John C. Calhoun, at one time Vice-President of the United States, had come very near having an open breach with President Jackson in regard to the enforcement of the tariff laws. ii. South Carolina opposed violently the high tariff upon imported goods, and declared her intention of either resisting the collection of the duties in her ports, or of seceding from the Union. The successful resistance of the collection of these duties would have rendered the tariff laws null and void, hence it was called the doctrine of " Nullification." President Jackson, though opposed himself to high tariff laws, was very indignant at the threats made by South Carolina, and a serious collision would doubtless have taken place, had not Henry Clay, at an opportune moment, brought forward a bill by which a compromise was effected. 12. The excitement caused by President Jackson's order for the removal of the funds from the National Bank was not so easily quelled. Many considered it an act of despot- ism on the part of the President, which might be followed by others of a similar nature. Senator Poindexter and Judge Black, representing Mississippi in Congress, viewed the action of the President in this light, and voted accord- ingly, though at the sacrifice of their popularity at home, as the majority of the people of Mississippi were of the opinion that Andrew Jackson could do no wrong. Judge Black was even requested to resign his place in Congress, but he failed HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 107 to comply at once, keeping his seat until near the close of the term. 13. So persistent were the efforts of Henry Clay to pre- serve the peace, that he became known, from the numerous bills he introduced in Congress, as the "Great Compro- miser." On being reminded at one time that he was endangering his chances for the Presidency by this course, he gave utterance to his famous remark, "/ would rather be right than President. ' ' QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XVII. What of the number and brilliancy of the public men of Natchez? Sargent S. Prentiss? Robert J. Walker? " First Mississippi Report?" At the close of Governer Brandon's second term, who was elected to succeed him? State Representatives in Congress from 1828 to this time? Condition of the country? When and where was the next Constitutional Convention held? How many counties were repre- sented ? Give some of the amendments to this Constitution ? T he Judiciary of the State — of what did it consist? First Chief Justice of the State under the Revised Constitution ? His character? When was the first railroad and telegraph company incorporated in Mississippi? Subsequent railroad companies? When did the death of ex-Governor Holmes occur? Who succeeded him in the Lower House of Congress? Who was elected for the full term under the new Constitution ? What of the organization of new counties under the Revised Constitution ? When were resolutions on the tariff and nullification doctrines passed by the Legislature of Mississippi ? What two parties now monopolized the great political questions of the day ? Who were the National lead- ers of the two great parties ? What new party was slowly forming in the South ? Leader of this party in South Carolina ? Conflict between South Carolina and President Jackson ? Excitement on the National Bank question ? Action of the Mississippi Congressmen on this ques- tion ? Action of Mr. Clay to preserve peace ? 108 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XVIII. 1833-1836. 1. In February, 1833, the Legislature authorized the leas- ing of the sixteenth section of land for a specified time, and the selling of the thirty-six sections granted by [the United States to the State of Mississippi, the proceeds of the whole to be devoted to the cause of education in the State. 2. The net proceeds of the crop of Mississippi in the year 1833 amounted to $11,316,000. In 1834 it reached the sum of $15,000,000. To the deep regret of all classes in the State, Governer Scott died in 1833, before the expiration of his term of office. He was a man of progressive spirit, deeply interested in the material prosperity of the country, and just prior to his unexpected death had projected several plans for the inter- nal improvement of the State. At the next regular election Hiram G. Runnels was elected Governor. 3. The question of slavery was just beginning to agitate the country at this time, many of the inhabitants of Missis- sippi, in common with those of other Southern States, advo- cating gradual emancipation and the subsequent colonization of the negro. 4. When the excitement over the contest between General Jackson and the National Bank was at its height, the Presi- dent appointed Samuel Gwin, the son of one of his early friends, to the office of Register of the Land Office, at Mt. Salus, now called Clinton. Dr. William M. Gwin, brother of Samuel Gwin, was also appointed to an important office in Mississippi, though both of them were citizens of Tennessee. These appointments were the cause of great dissatisfaction throughout Mississippi, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 109 where it was thought that offices should be filled by residents of the State. President Jackson was immovable, however, and the appointments stood, though against the remon- strances of our Senators and Representatives in Congress. Henceforward, for a lengthy period of time, the Gwins became important factors in the political problems of the day. Dr. Gwin was a man of extraordinary ability, and soon rose to eminence as a leader of the Democratic party. Through his influence Robert J. Walker, of Natchez, was induced to take the field as the Democratic nominee for Senator in opposition to ex-Governor Poindexter, who was the choice of the Whig party for that office. 5. A new era in the prosperity of Mississippi may be dated from the year 1835. The Revised Constitution, which had been received by the people at first with many misgivings, was found to be admirably adapted to the inter- ests of the State. The recent acquisition of territory from the Indians had also enlarged the fields of industry and enterprise. Immigrants from the older Southern States found in this new and undeveloped region a rich field for the investment of labor and capital, and the lands, as soon as thrown upon the markets, found ready purchasers. The early white settlers in the Chickasaw cession found a country beauti- fully wooded with hickory, oak, and maple, with a surface rather rolling, but highly productive. Cotton, as in most other portions of the State, was from the first the staple product. For a long time, until the building of railroads became general, the chief outlet of this region was by wagons to Memphis. 6. Prior to the opening of the political campaign in 1835, Governor Runnels, in view of several important measures that required attention, called a special session of the Legis- lature. Several of the counties, formed from the newly- acquired Indian Territories, had claimed the right of repre- 110 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. sentation, and the Governor had already issued writs of election to the same. After the Governor had been notified by a committee from both Houses of the organization of the Legislature, the Senate refused to recognize the House of Representatives on account of the presence of the members from the new counties, declaring their election and admit- tance to have been unconstitutional. It also refused to join the House in the election of a United States Senator. 7. The House of Representatives, supported by the Gov- ernor, denied the right of the Senate to decide upon the constitutionality of another body, declaring that each branch of the Legislature was competent to decide upon the quali- fications of its own members. A message to that effect was communicated to the Senate, which, immediately after its reception, adjourned, and immediately afterward the House adjourned until the next regular session of the Legislature. 8. The thirty-six sections of land granted to the State by the general government for a "Seminary of Learning" were sold for a sum sufficient to justify the State in the establishment of a university, and commissioners from different sections of the State were appointed to select a suitable location for the same. 9. The political campaign of 1835 was one °f tne most exciting ever known in the history of the State, on account of the nearly equally-balanced power of the two great parties participating in it. The Democrats renominated Governor Runnels, whose administration had been both able and popular, the Whigs opposing to him Hon. Charles Lynch, a wealthy cotton- planter of the eastern portion of the State. Both parties made a thorough canvass and with about equal success, as the election proved that an equal number of officers had been elected from each ticket. The Whigs elected the Governor, and a majority of the members of the Legislature voted for Walker against Poindexter. J. F. H. Claiborne, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. HI the future historian, was elected to Congress by the Demo- crats. David Dickson was the Whig member elected. 10. At the time of Mr. Walker's election to Congress, the leading question before that body was the annexation of Texas to the United States. He was a warm advocate of that measure, and some of his most eloquent speeches were delivered in behalf of it. He voted on all occasions with the party which had elected him, and on the introduction of the question of slavery into politics, took a strong ground in defense of that institution. ii. The first meeting of the Legislature after the election of 1835 was productive of some very important results. Among the Whig members was S. S. Prentiss, representing Warren county. Thirteen new counties were organized from the Chickasaw cession by the Legislature. They were Panola, Newton, Tunica, Tishomingo, Tippah, Pontotoc, Lafayette, Ita- wamba, De Soto, Marshall, Coahoma, Chickasaw, and Bolivar. 12. Immediately after the organization of the Chickasaw counties, it was moved that they be allowed representation at the next meeting of the Legislature. This called forth the same arguments that had divided the Legislature the previous session. The Governor was applied to for writs of election, but declined to give them on the ground that no vacancy existed. No action was taken on the subject by this Legislature, the whole question being postponed until the next session. 13. A bill was passed at this session appointing commis- sioners and an architect for the erection of a State House at the seat of government, a large sum of money having been appropriated for that purpose. The sum of seventy- five thousand dollars was also appropriated for the establish- ment of a penitentiary within two miles of the capital. 112 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XVIII. What action did the Legislature in 1833 take in regard to the six- teenth section of land? The thirty-six sections? Give figures on crop of Mississippi in 1833. When did Governor Scott die? Give an outline sketch of his character. Who succeeded him at the next regular election ? What question was just beginning to agitate the country? Appointment of Samuel Gwin to the Land Office? Why were the appointments of the Gwins so distasteful to the people of the State? Through whose influence did the Gwins become important factors in the politics of the State? When did a new era of prosperity begin for our State? Some of the causes of the change? Immigration from the older States? The Chickasaw country? The production of cotton ? Why did Governor Runnels, in 1835, call a special session of the Legislature? Claim of the new counties for representation? Contest between the two Houses on this question. Show how the State was enabled to establish her University at this time ? Why was the political campaign of 1835 of such an exciting character? Name the nominees of each party? Who was elected Governor? Hon. J. F. H. Claiborne? Who defeated Poindexter for the Senate? What was then the leading question in Congress ? Which side did Robert J. Walker espouse? Why was the meeting of the Legislature of 1835 productive of important results? Show how the contest over the Chickasaw counties was renewed. What appropriations were made by this Legislature ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 113 CHAPTER XIX. 1837-1839. 1. The Union Bank of Mississippi was established in January, 1837, with a capital of $15,500,000, the amount to be raised by means of a loan to be obtained by the directors of the institution. When the stock in this bank had been secured by a mortgage on the property of the stockholders, Governor Lynch was directed to issue bonds equal to the amount subscribed. 2. In the fall of 1837, Governor A. G. McNutt succeeded Governor Lynch. As State Senator at the time the bank was chartered, he had recorded his vote against the Act. In February, 1838, however, when the bill was re-enacted, it received his approval as Governor. February 15, 1838, the Legislature passed a Supplementary Act authorizing the Governor to subscribe for fifty-thousand shares of the bank stock, to be paid for out of the proceeds of the bonds to be executed to the bank, in accordance with the provisions of the original charter. Commissioners were appointed to sell the State bonds at their par value in any market of the United States or in any foreign market, and, accordingly, on the 1 8th of August, 1838, five million dollars' worth of bonds were sold to the President of the Bank of the United States, and sent by him to London, England, as collateral security for a loan already made. Payment was made on these bonds, but the stockholders were the only beneficiaries, the Treasury of the State never receiving a dollar of it. 3. At the meeting of the Legislature in 1837, the right of the Chickasaw counties to representation again came up for discussion. Ten representatives from the new counties presented themselves, basing their claim upon the ninth 114 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. section of the third article of the Constitution, which declares that the Legislature shall, "at their first session and at periods of not less than every four, nor more than every six years, until the year 1845, and thereafter at periods of not less than every four, and not more than every eight years, cause an enumeration to be made of all the free white inhabitants of this State, and the whole number of representatives shall, at the several periods of making such enumeration, be fixed by the Legislature, and appor- tioned among the several counties, cities, or towns entitled to separate representation, according to the number of free white inhabitants in each, and shall not be less than thirty- six nor more than one hundred. Provided, however, that each county shall always be entitled to at least one repre- sentative." Jacob Thompson, a rising young lawyer, took an active part in favor of the right of these counties to representation. 4. The opponents of the admittance of the representa- tives, led by Sargent S. Prentiss, declared the whole matter revolutionary and unconstitutional. The Governor of the State had declined to issue writs of election, and the inhabi- tants had caused them to be made out by the boards of police of their respective counties. After a protracted and exciting debate, the vote of the House was taken, and the new members admitted by a small majority. Congress passed an Act about this time indemnifying the State for her right to the sixteenth section of land within the Chicka- saw cession, though the indemnity was wholly inadequate to the loss sustained. 5. A special election was held in July, 1837, to fill a vacancy existing in the Lower House of Congress. J. F. H. Claiborne and S. J. Gholson were the Democratic candi- dates for office, and S. S. Prentiss and T. J. Word were the Whig candidates for the same. The active part taken by the gifted Prentiss against the representation of the Chicka- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. lib saw counties had rendered him very unpopular in that section of the country, and he was easily defeated. Clai- borne and Gholson were elected by a handsome majority. On the organization of Congress, the right of the Governor of Mississippi to order a special election in this case was SARGENT S. PRENTISS. questioned, but after some discussion it was acknowledged to be valid. 6. The regular elections in Mississippi came off the following November. The same candidates for Congress were nominated as for the special election, and Prentiss and Word were elected by a large majority. The former had canvassed the State previous to the election, and his wonder- ful eloquence had revolutionized the sentiments of the people, including those of the Chickasaw counties. The election was contested by Claiborne and Gholson, who claimed their seats in Congress on the grounds that the 116 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. July elections expressed the will of the people, and that as Congress had already decided the question, the decision could not now be reversed. During this celebrated contest Mr. Prentiss acquired a national fame for oratory. His speeches in defense of himself and colleague electrified the country. The decision of Congress, however, was adverse to his hopes and interests, and the Democratic members retained their seats for the remainder of the term. 7. The vacancy in Congress caused by the resignation of Judge Black, just before the expiration of his term of office, was filled by the election of Judge James F. Trotter, a resident of the Chickasaw country. In 1838 the boundary line between Mississippi and Tennessee was established, Mississippi surrendering a portion of territory north of the line, over which she had formerly claimed jurisdiction. Ex-Governor Charles Lynch was this year appointed Com- missioner of Public Buildings. 8. The system of banking inaugurated in Mississippi with the introduction of railroads, proved very disastrous to the best interests of the State. At least twenty banking institutions were incorporated in the State between the years 1830 and 1840, the time known since as the "flush times of Mississippi." Public lands were settled with a very superior class of immigrants, new post-offices and mail routes were established everywhere, and railroad and telegraphic companies began linking the most isolated por- tions of the State with the outside world. 9. Before the bonds of the Union Bank became due they were declared by Governor McNutt to be worthless, on account of the failure of the Commissioners to sell them at par, as required by the Supplementary Act under which they were issued. This proclamation caused intense excite- ment throughout the State. Public meetings were held and the motives of Governor McNutt assailed by such men as Poindexter, Prentiss and other able leaders of both parties. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 117 For years the great political question in Mississippi was the payment or non-payment of these bonds. 10. Governor McNutt opposed the loose system of bank- ing uncompromisingly. He contended that the same pov/er that granted charters could repeal them, and recommended that most of them be repealed. The great body of the people from whose ranks he had risen, and to whose interests he had ever remained faithful, sustained him through all the storm of opposition and censure provoked by his course on the bond question, and at the next election triumphantly vindicated him by electing him for a second term of office. ii. At the expiration of the special term for which Clai- borne and Gholson had been elected to Congress, Governor McNutt issued a proclamation for a new election to be held on the fourth Monday in April, 1838. Mr. Gholson declined the nomination for this election, and the name of General James Davis was placed upon the Democratic ticket with that of Claiborne. Prentiss and Word were again nomi- nated by the Whigs, who, under the leadership of Judge Sharkey, were confident of victory. The contest was pro- tracted and exciting, each party massing all its available strength in the struggle for victory. Unfortunately for Mr. Claiborne, feeble health would not allow him to partici- pate in the canvass personally, as did his adversary, the eloquent Prentiss, whose personal magnetism and fiery eloquence finally turned the scales in favor of the Whigs. Prentiss and Word were elected by a majority of nearly one thousand. 12. Hon. James F. Trotter, who had been elected to Congress after the resignation of Judge Black, resigned the position soon after accepting it. In November, 1838, Thomas H. Williams, a veteran in public service, was appointed to fill the vacancy. March 4, 1839, John Henderson was elected to Congress for a full term. The year 1837 was 118 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. marked by a period of great financial distress all over the Union. Martin Van Buren, the recently-elected President of the United States, was inaugurated on the 4th of March, 1837. He was elected by the Democratic party, the Whigs having incurred defeat by a division of their ranks. Missis- sippi, in common with her sister States, felt this financial pressure, but the ambition, thrift and aggressiveness of her people brought her safely through this time of trial. Mr. Van Buren's administration was held responsible for the financial disasters of the country, and the result was the triumph of the Whigs at the next presidential election. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XIX. What bank was established in 1837, and with what capital? Who succeeded Governor Lynch ? Show how his vote stood on the estab- lishment of the Union Bank. What was the " Supplementary Act? " How were the Union Bank bonds disposed of? What question again came up for discussion in the Legislature of 1837? Why did the Chickasaw counties claim the right of representation ? What rising young lawyer took an active part in these proceedings? Who led the opposing party? How was the question finally disposed of? Act of Congress in reference to the sixteenth section of Chickasaw lands? Why was a special election held in 1837? Name the candidates of the opposing parties. Who were the successful ones ? At the next regu- lar election, what candidates were elected to Congress? What had wrought the change in the sentiments of the people? Upon what grounds was the election contested ? What gave Prentiss a national fame? How was the contested election case decided by Congress? Who was elected to fill the vacancy caused by Judge Black's resigna- tion? Boundary line between Mississippi and Tennessee? Internal improvements in the State? Declaration of Governor McNutt in reference to Union Bank bonds? Result of this declaration? What became the great political question of the day? What position did Governor McNutt assume, and by whom was he sustained? His re-election? Democratic nominees for Congress? Whig? By what majority were Prentiss and Word elected ? Who succeeded Judge Trotter by appointment? By election? Financial panic of 1837? Democratic President ? How was it held responsible for the financial distress ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. \\[, CHAPTER XX 1839-1845. 1. The campaign of the spring of 1838 closed Mr. Clai- borne's public life. Declining all offers of political prefer- ment, he devoted himself thenceforth to journalism and literature. His " Mississippi as a Province, Territory, and State " is an enduring memorial of his patience, perseverance and greatness as a writer, though written after he had reached an advanced age. The convention which re-nom- inated Governor McNutt, in the fall of 1839, realizing the need of the Democratic party for strong men, selected Albert G. Brown and Jacob Thompson as candidates for congressional honors. Both had served in the State Legis- lature, and each had acquired favor in the eyes of the people by their views upon financial matters. 2. After a vigorous contest, in which the banking system and bond question played an important part, the Democratic nominees were~elected. One of the absorbing questions of that day was the annexation of Texas to the Union. Many of the most prominent citizens of the State became, volun- tarily, champions of the annexation movement, and many recruits for the " Army of Independence " were obtained in our State. Robert J. Walker and Felix Houston, both citi- zens of Mississippi and ardent politicians, were earnest advo- cates of the cause of Texas. 3. In 1840, the Legislature passed an Act for the location of the State University. This Act provided that several sites should be selected by ballot, and from these, commis- sioners appointed for the purpose of examining them, were to select the one most suitable for the location of the Univer- sity. The commission reported to the next session of the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 121 Legislature that lands for the location of the proposed Uni- versity had been purchased at Oxford, Lafayette county, a portion of the Chickasaw cession. 4. The " Seminary Fund" was appropriated for the benefit of the University. A " State Agricultural Society " with auxiliary branches in each county was formed in 1841. That same year, Hope & Company, of Amsterdam, Holland, in a communication addressed to Governor McNutt, asked that the State of Mississippi take immediate measures for the payment of the interest, due at that time, and that which would successively fall due on the five millions of dollars' worth of Union Bank bonds then in their possession. 5. This demand of foreign capitalists was made upon the State despite the fact that the Union Bank had long been hopelessly bankrupt and its bonds condemned as utterly worthless. Governor McNutt stated his reasons, in a reply to Hope & Company, for believing that the bonds were unconstitutional and that the State could not be held respon- sible for their payment. This correspondence was made public and was the cause of intense excitement throughout the State. A very large and influential party, led by Prentiss, the Yergers, Judge Sharkey, and others, believed that the payment of the Union and Planter's Bank bonds was legally binding upon the State, and this party, re-enforced by those Democrats who also believed that the honor of the State was involved in the payment of the bonds, made a bitter warfare against Governor McNutt and the party he represented. 6. Notwithstanding the opinion of men of high legal stand- ing, the masses of the people considered the bonds of the Union Bank invalid and their non-payment by the State just and right, and they regarded Governor McNutt's reply to the Amsterdam company as a complete vindication of the honor of the State. McNutt's views were also endorsed by Jacob Thompson, then representing the State in Congress, 122 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. he maintaining that the people of Mississippi were neither legally nor morally responsible for the payment of the bonds. The political excitement of this year rivaled that of 1835. The Whig candidate for Governor was David O. Shattuck, a Methodist minister of great influence and also a lawyer of ability. 7. T. H. Tucker was nominated for Governor by the Democrats, with William M. Gwin and Jacob Thompson for Congressmen, Albert G. Brown declining a re-nomination ; Robert J. Walker was nominated for the office of United States Senator. This was. a strong ticket, and was very easily elected. Had the Whig party possessed three times its moral worth, it must have gone down under the tremen- dous weight of the bond question. The majority of the people were convinced that they were not responsible for the payment of the debt, arguing that it was contracted in the interest of a few capitalists who had enriched themselves without a thought of benefit to the State. The majority by which William M. Gwin was elected to Congress was twen- ty-five thousand, the result of personal popularity and a skillfully conducted campaign. 8. In 1842, the office of State Librarian was instituted at a salary of four hundred dollars a year. The annual allow- ance for the increase of the State library was fixed at five hundred dollars, with a contingent allowance for the use of the librarian. A levee survey was made this year, begin- ning at the northern boundary of the State and ending at the mouth of the Yazoo river. Congress had but recently donated to the State of Mississippi, on certain conditions, five hundred thousand acres of land for purposes of internal improvement, and the public now began to reap the benefit in improved roads, new bridges, railroads, etc. 9. During the administration of Governor Tucker the financial condition of the country improved rapidly. In 1843 "the representation of the State in Congress was HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 123 increased to five members in the House of Representatives. The Democratic Convention nominated Jacob Thompson, Governor Tucker, W. H. Hammet, and R. W. Roberts; W. M. Gwin declined a re-nomination. Albert G. Brown, who had recently represented the State in Congress, received the nomination for Governor, his name addine greatly to the strength of the ticket, which was elected entirely with but little difficulty. William M. Gwin and Robert J. Walker were delegates from Mississippi to the celebrated Baltimore Convention of 1844, in which the question of the annexation of Texas assumed vital impor- tance. Mr. Gwin and Mr. Walker are said to have been mainly instrumental in nominating James K. Polk, of Ten- nessee, for the presidential office. 10. Joseph W. Matthews, of Marshall county, and Jeffer- son Davis, of Warren, were nominated by the Democratic party for presidential electors from the State at large. This was the beginning of the celebrated political career of Jeffer- son Davis. Educated for a soldier, he had been a lieutenant in the Black Hawk war, and had subsequently retired to his plantation, Briarfield, in Warren county. 11. Governor Brown's administration was distinguished by many important measures, and the permanent interests of the State were greatly advanced under his wise supervision. The first trustees of the University of Mississippi were appointed in 1844. Fifty thousand dollars were appropri- ated during the years 1846-7 for the benefit of that noble institution of learning, which was to fit the sons of Missis- sippi for the most advanced paths of life. Robert J. Walker, of Mississippi, was made Secretary of the Treasury under President Polk. Upon his resignation as Senator, Judge Joseph W. Chalmers, a distinguished lawyer of Holly Springs, was appointed to fill the vacancy. In March, 1845, Hon. Jesse Speight was appointed Senator to succeed Hon. John Henderson. 124 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 12. In September of this year, Mr. Prentiss, whose whole fortune had been swept away by an unfortunate law-suit, left Mississippi and established a law practice in New Orleans, Louisiana. His departure was deeply regretted by the citizens of the State of which he had been one of the brightest ornaments. Although his fame is national and can be confined to no particular section of our common country, Mississippi will always remember with just pride the career of her favorite son. 13. In 1845, Texas, by Act of Congress, was annexed to the United States. Mexico resented this by such hostile demonstrations that General Zachary Taylor was ordered by the Government to place his troops in a position to defend the Territory of Texas, in case of its invasion by Mexico. This order awakened the military enthusiasm of the whole country, Mississippi taking the initiative in sympa- thizing with the wrongs inflicted upon the " Lone Star" of the West. 14. Saturday, the 12th of July, 1845, was set apart by the citizens of Mississippi for manifesting their sorrow for the death and gratitude for the services of the illustrious soldier and statesman, ex-President Andrew Jackson. Busi- ness was suspended, processions formed and marshaled to different places of worship, where appropriate funeral services were held in memory of the dead chieftain who had saved the early inhabitants of the "State from the horrors of Indian warfare. 15. The election of James K. Polk to the presidency was a triumph of the Democratic party. Henry Clay, the idol of the Whigs, had been the nominee of that party, but, notwithstanding his great personal popularity and his repu- tation as a disinterested patriot, he was defeated by the all- absorbing question of the day — the annexation of Texas — to which Polk was pledged. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 125 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XX. When did J. F. H. Claiborne retire from public life? Democratic nominees for Congress ? One of the absorbing questions of the cam- paign ? When and where was the State University located? State Agricultural Society? Demand of Amsterdam capitalists? How did Governor McNutt meet the demand? Effect of the correspondence? Leaders of the party opposed to McNutt? Opinion of the masses? How expressed ? Whig candidate for Governor? Democratic? Demo- cratic ticket for Congress? What question defeated the Whigs hope- lessly? Majority of William M. Gwin ? When was the office of State Librarian instituted? Levee survey? Internal improvements? Financial improvement during Governor Tucker's administration ? How was the representation of the State in Congress increased ? Election of the entire Democratic ticket? Who were the delegates from Mississippi to the Baltimore Convention ? Presidential electors from Mississippi ? Opening of the career of Jefferson Davis ? For what was Governor Brown's administration noted? What office did Robert J. Walker hold under Polk's administration? Who was ap- pointed as his successor? Removal of S. S. Prentiss to New Orleans? What of the annexation of Texas? Hostile demonstrations of Mexico and action of United States authorities? Death of Andrew Jackson ? Election of James K. Polk, and defeat of Henry Clay for the presidency? 126 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXI. 1845-1848. 1. In 1845, Jacob Thompson was again elected to Con- gress by a large majority. His colleagues were Jefferson Davis, Stephen Adams, and R. W. Roberts. Mr. Davis at that time was considered a young man of brilliant talents, an eloquent debater, and an able defender of the doctrines of his political creed. 2. There were a number of Democratic candidates this year for the office of United States Senator. Among them were William M. Gwin, ex-Governor MciNutt, and General John A. Quitman. None of them were successful, as the Whig candidate, General H. S. Foote, was elected, receiv- ing a majority of the votes cast in the Legislature. Judge Chalmers had served out the unexpired term of Walker, first by appointment and afterward by election. Although Foote was elected in January, 1846, his term of office did not begin until the 4th of March, 1847. 3. The Boards of Police of the respective counties were empowered, in 1846, to levy a special tax for common school purposes, and all fines, licenses, forfeitures, etc., were to be appropriated for the benefit of the school fund. The Secretary of State was made ex-offkio General School Commissioner, performing his duties under the superintend- ence and direction of the Governor. 4. Early in 1846, the unfriendly relations that had long existed between Mexico and the United States terminated in open warfare. The first American blood shed in this cause was that of Colonel Cross, a quartermaster-general, who, in April, 1846, while making a short horseback excursion into the country, was attacked and cruelly murdered by the Mexicans. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 127 5. Volunteers from every Southern State flocked to the banks of the Rio Grande, when it was known that the standard of the Union had been unfurled there under that brave leader, General Taylor. When it became known that a requisition had been made upon Governor Brown for a regiment of ''Mississippi Riflemen," the excitement and enthusiasm prevailing all over the State were unprecedented. It was impossible for the recruiting officers to accept all the volunteers who presented themselves. A regiment of ten companies was raised almost immediately after the call of the Governor for troops was made. 6. After the "First Regiment of Mississippi Volunteers" had been mustered into the service of the government, its officers were elected, and it was sent by way of Gulf of Mexico to the seat of war. A colonel's commission was tendered by Governor Brown to Jefferson Davis, then representing Mississippi in the Lower House of Congress. Mr. Davis accepted the commis- sion, resigned his seat in Congress, and joined his regiment in New Orleans. The regiment was forwarded immediately to General Taylor's headquarters, on the Rio Grande. General John A. Quitman, who had headed a company of volunteers during the Texan war, was made a brigadier in the regular army in 1845, and before the expiration of the war was promoted to the rank of major-general. 7. Colonel Davis' regiment was placed, immediately after its arrival at headquarters, with General Quitman's brigade, and proceeded with it, during the summer of 1846, to Mon- terey, soon to become the theater of remarkable events. The regiment was greatly reduced in numbers by sickness before it arrived at Monterey, not more than four hundred being fit for active service. 8. During the three days' battle before that place, the Mississippi volunteers were exposed to the heat of the action, having, time after time, to repel the fierce charges 128 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. of the enemy's cavalry. Although Colonel Davis had gained a reputation for bravery during the Black Hawk war, his fame as a soldier and leader of men dates from the battle of Monterey. He was one of the commissioners appointed by General Taylor to arrange the terms of capitulation. 9. The loss of the First Mississippi regiment, at Monterey, was very great, considering the small number of men engaged. The whole number of killed and wounded was sixty-one. Among those dangerously wounded was Lieu- tenant-Colonel A. R. McClung, whose bravery on the field of battle was so conspicuous as to attract special attention from General Taylor, commander-in-chief. The battle of Buena Vista occurred on the 22d and 23d of February, 1847. The following extract from the report of General Taylor, after the battle, shows that the gallantry of the Mississippi riflemen was not confined to the field of Monterey : " The Mississippi volunteers, under Colonel Jefferson Davis, were highly conspicuous for their gallantry and stead- iness, and sustained throughout the engagement the reputa- tion of veteran troops. Brought into action against an immensely superior force, they maintained themselves for a long time, unsupported and with heavy loss, and held an important part of the field until re-enforced. Colonel Davis, though severely wounded, remained in the saddle until the close of the action. His distinguished coolness and gallantry at the head of his regiment on this day entitle him to the particular notice of the Government." 10. One of the movements adopted by Colonel Davis during the course of this battle excited much attention in military circles and elsewhere. The Mexican cavalry, in heavy columns, were advancing to an attack upon the Mis- sissippi troops, when Colonel Davis threw his command into the form of a letter "V" with the opening toward the enemy. The men were ordered to reserve their fire until HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 129 the near approach of the enemy enabled them to shoot with unerring aim, and it was not until their features were discernible that a deadly fire was poured into them, bring- ing down horses and men in one common slaughter. Again and again the Mexicans rallied, but to no purpose, as they were met each time by a deadly rain of bullets, which EARL VAN DORN. finally caused them to fall backward in hopeless confusion. Had the enemy conquered in that charge, says a writer of that day, " Santa Anna would have been the hero of Angos- tura." ii. Among the brave Mississippians in this war, Earl Van Dorn stands conspicuous. Appointed to West Point at the age of sixteen by President Jackson, he graduated at twenty years of age, and was ordered, as a second lieutenant, to duty in the far South. As a lieutenant in General Taylor's army he distinguished himself in battle by rehoisting his 130 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. country's flag, which had been cut down by a cannon-ball, while the enemy's artillery was tearing up the ground around his feet and death seemed inevitable. He was next conspicuous in the perilous charge made by General Worth at Monterey ; afterward at Cerro Gordo, where he was one of the first to mount the parapets and engage in a hand-to- hand conflict with the enemy. He fought at Cherubusco, and at Belen Gate, where he was slightly wounded, and was with our army when it made its triumphant entry into the City of Mexico. For gallantry of conduct, he was promoted to the rank of major before the close of the war. 12. A second regiment of Mississippi volunteers was organized for service in Mexico by Hon. Reuben Davis, of Aberdeen, who was elected its colonel. The war, however, terminating shortly after its organization, this regiment was not called into active service. On the return of General Taylor's troops from Mexico, they were awarded a reception in New Orleans, Sargent S. Prentiss bidding them wel- come in the name of the city. 13. The entrance of the American army into the City of Mexico ended the war, though peace was not declared until February, 1848. Mexico made important concessions to the United States, the whole of California and New Mexico being given up to our government. Hon. Henry J. Ellett, a very distinguished lawyer of Mississippi, was appointed to fill out the unexpired term of Colonel Davis in Congress. 14. New measures were constantly arising in that body which required the whole strength, not of Mississippi alone, but of the entire South, and no man was more entirely devoted to the interests of his country than Judge Ellett. In 1847, Hon. Jesse Speight, Congressman from Mississippi, died while in the faithful performance of his official duties. Colonel Davis was appointed to the vacancy occasioned by Mr. Speight's death, and in 1848 received the appointment to the same place for the next term. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 131 15. Judge H. S. Foote was appointed to succeed Robert J. Walker, who had been made Secretary of Treasury under President Polk. In 1847, Joseph W. Matthews, the Demo- cratic candidate for Governor of Mississippi, was elected. Ex-Governor Brown was elected to the Upper House of Congress; Hon. Jacob Thompson, VV. S. Featherstone, and P. W. Tompkins were elected to the Lower House of Congress. Governor Matthews was a "man of the peo- ple," plain and unassuming in manners and attire, but of remarkably strong will and powerful intellect. He possessed the confidence of the people to a remarkable extent. 16. The Mexican war was ended formally by the treaty of Gaudaloupe Hidalgo, which was concluded February 2, 1848. On the 4th of July following, President Polk made public the proclamation of peace. All the vast territory now comprised in New Mexico, Utah, and California, was ceded to the United States by this treaty. In return Mexico received a compensation of fifteen millions of dollars. Gold was discovered in California about the time of this treaty, and a remarkable rush to the Pacific Coast began from all parts of the world. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXI. Congressmen elected from Mississippi in 1845? Contestants for the office of United States Senator? What Whig candidate received the office at the hands of the Legislature? Re-election of Judge Chalmers? Legislation for the benefit of the School Fund in 1846? When was open warfare declared between Mexico and the United States? First American blood shed? Volunteers from the South? What requisition was made upon the Governor of Mississippi? First Regiment of Mississippi volunteers ? Its Colonel ? Promotion of General Quitman? Proceedings of the regiment during the summer of 1846? Its gallant conduct during the battle of Montery? Losses? Gallant conduct of Colonel McClung? Battle of Buena Vista? Report of General Taylor concerning the First Mississippi Regiment ? Famous letter "V" movement of Colonel Davis? Sketch of Colonel Van 132 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Dorn? By whom was the Second Regiment of Mississippi Volunteers organized? Why was it not called upon for active service? When was peace declared? Terms of the treaty with Mexico? Who was appointed to fill out the unexpired term of Jefferson Davis in Congress? New measures in that body? Death of Mr. Speight, and appointment of Mr. Davis to the vacancy? Appointment of Judge Foote? Elec- tion of Governor Matthews? Elections to the Upper and Lower Houses of Congress ? Character of Governor Matthews ? Treaty of Gaudaloupe Hidalgo? Proclamation of peace ? Territory acquired by the United States? What compensation did Mexico receive in return ? When was gold discovered in California? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 1 33 CHAPTER XXII. 1848-1850. 1. In 1848, the Legislature passed an Act for the leasing of the Chickasaw School Lands for a specified term of years. These lands were stocked with very fine timber, upon which such extensive depredations were made by law- less persons that it became necessary for the State to interfere for the protection of its own rights. 'A Land Office was established at Jackson, and a public auction of these lands was held, but as the Act provided that they should not be sub-divided into tracts of less than one-quarter section each, the sale of the lots was much slower than had been expected. 2. In 1845, tri e city of* Natchez established a public school system of its own, for "all free white children over five years of age within the corporate limits of the city." These schools were conducted in an admirable manner, supervised by a Board of Visitors and taught by thoroughly trained teachers. An " Institute for the Blind," supported by private contributions, was opened in Jackson in 1848. " Hutchinson's Mississippi Code " was finished in 1848, and submitted to the Legislature for approval. It contained a full and complete compilation of the statute laws of Missis- sippi, and was admirably adapted to the wants of the legal profession of the State. The Legislature purchased two thousand copies for distribution among the officers of the State. 3. The cotton crop of the State for the years 1848-9 was unusually small, and the price of the same was also extremely low. Added to this, there was also an unprece- dented overflow of the great river forming our western 134 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. boundary. The cholera also made its appearance in the western portion of the State during the year 1849, and, for a time, under the influence of these combined evils, the finances of the State showed signs of great depression. By a careful and judicious policy, however, the State passed through these difficulties without serious embarrassment, and at the close of Governor Matthews' term of office he was able to congratulate the country on its peaceful and prosperous condition. 4. At the Democratic Convention in Baltimore in 1848, General John A. Quitman received a very complimentary vote for Vice-President of the United States. He was also nominated by the Democratic State Convention that year as one of the presidential electors of the State at large. In the fall of 1849 he was nominated to succeed Governor Matthews, and received the enthusiastic support of a majority of the people of the State. The Whig candidate for Governor, Hon. Luke Lea, received the support of his entire party, but General Quitman was elected by a majority of ten thousand. Our representatives in Congress at that time were Jefferson Davis, Henry S. Foote, Jacob Thompson, Wm. McWillie, and ex-Governor Albert G. Brown. 5. Early in the year 1850, these Senators and Representa- tives in Congress addressed a communication to Governor Quitman on a question which was then exciting the public mind everywhere, viz : the admission of California into the Union of States. The President of the United States in his annual message had recommended its admission, and it was supposed that a majority of both Houses of Congress would vote for it. Even before the ratification of a treaty of peace with Mexico, the slavery question had been violently agitated and the opponents of the institution in Congress sought to place restrictions upon its introduction into Cali- fornia and New Mexico before allowing them entrance into HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 135 the Union. This, of course, was contrary to the opinions and interests of the representatives from the slave States, and protracted discussions of this unfortunate subject were of constant occurrence. 6. The representatives of Mississippi wished, before cast- ing their votes upon this question, to have an expression of JUDGE WILLIAM L SHARKEY. opinion from the Governor and Legislature of the State, so that the course they might pursue would meet the approval of their constituents. On the nth of February, 1850, Governor Quitman stated the exigencies of the case to the assembled Legislature, laying before them, at the same time, the address of their members in Congress. The Legislature agreed with the Governor that, on the common principles of equal justice to all the States of the Union, the common territory of the new States should be opened to all the older States alike, without regard to the laws respecting 136 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. their peculiar domestic institutions, and their representatives in Congress were advised to vote in accordance with this decision. 7. Governor Quitman was one of the first to suggest the idea of a general convention, composed of the delegates from the Southern States, who should consult together as to the best means of protecting the rights of slave-holding States. The celebrated Nashville Convention, of 1850, was the direct result of this suggestion. That illustrious statesman, Judge William L. Sharkey, was chosen President of this convention, and exercised the important duties of the office in a characteristic manner. Soon after the adjournment of the convention, he was offered the position of Secretary of War by President Fillmore, but declined the proffered honor. He resigned the office of Chief Justice about this time, and resumed the practice of law. 8. In September, 1850, the celebrated " Omnibus Bill," of which Henry Clay, the idol of the Whig party, was the author, was passed in Congress. It provided for the aboli- tion of slavery in the District of Columbia ; that California should be admitted into the Union as a free State; that ten million dollars be paid to the State of Texas as a compensa- tion for the territory of New Mexico, and that a law be passed for the arrest and return to their masters of fugitive slaves. 9. This was the "Compromise Measure" of 1850, and upon its merits the people of Mississippi were very much divided. The party of which Governor Quitman was the representative, opposed the measure as unjust to the inter- ests of the South, while the opposing party, under the leadership of Judge Sharkey and Senator Foote, were in favor of acquiescing in the terms of the bill. The contro- versies growing out of this measure finally led to the break- ing up of old party organizations and the organization of the "Southern" or "States' Rights" party, which took the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 137 place of the Democratic party for the time, and the Union or Constitutional party, which rose to life from the ruins of the Whig party. 10. From the census of 1850, some idea as to the rapid advance made by Mississippi in material prosperity may be obtained. The State was divided into fifty-nine counties, of which twenty-three were in Northern Mississippi, and thirty-six in the southern portion of the State. The whole number of inhabitants in the State amounted to six hundred and six thousand five hundred and sixty-five. Home manu- factures for the year ending June 1, 1850, amounted to $1,164,020. 11. The railroad prospects throughout the State were highly encouraging. The Vicksburg, Jackson & Brandon road had been finished and was in successful operation ; while the Mobile & Ohio, the New Orleans, Jackson & Northern, which, when finished, would traverse the State from north to south, were in process of construction. The Memphis & Charleston, traversing the State from east to west on the north line, one from Madison ville on Lake Pontchartrain eastward to a junction with the Mobile & Ohio, and a line from Selma, Alabama, westward to Bran- don, there to unite with the Vicksburg road, were also in course of construction. Lateral lines that would extend from these main lines to the centers of production, and so build up a system of local communication, both for travel and trade, were in contemplation. 12. The banking system was unsound and was a great drawback to the prosperity of the State. The Northern Bank of Mississippi, ax Holly Springs, established with a capital of $100,000, was in a sound financial state. The militia force of the State consisted of thirty-six thousand and eighty-four men, of whom eight. hundred and twenty- five were commissioned officers. The Mississippi Lunatic Asylum and the Asylum for the Blind, at Jackson, were in 138 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. successful operation at this time. An Act passed May 23, 1850, apportioned to Mississippi five representatives to the Congress of the United States. 13. The common school system of the State had not proved as efficient as was desired, the widely-scattered popu- lation proving a great barrier to its success. Amendments to the School Law of 1846 had been made, and special laws to govern particular counties were enacted. The University of Mississippi, at Oxford, Mississippi College, at Clinton, and Oakland College, were the most noteworthy institutions in the State. In 1850 the University was equipped with six professors, and had an attendance of one hundred and thirty- four students. 14. The whole number of newspapers and other periodi- cals at that date was fifty-six. Of these, twenty-one were Democratic, sixteen Whigs and nineteen independent in politics. The Sentinel and the Whig, both published at Vicksburg, were issued tri-weekly ; the Natchez Courier and Natchez Free Trader semi-weekly. Four weekly papers were published at Jackson, the capital ; three each at Kosciusko and Houston ; two each at Carrollton, Lexington, Fayette, Oxford, Canton, Holly Springs, Aberdeen, Pontotoc, and Woodville; one each at Liberty, Port Gibson, Gallatin, Hernando, Gainesville, Biloxi, Paulding, Monticello, Marion, Columbus, Macon, Holmesville, Panola, Brandon, Jacinto, Ripley, Louisville, Grenada, and Coffeeville. 15. The cotton crop of 1850 numbered four hundred and eighty-four thousand two hundred and ninety-three bales, of four hundred pounds each ; tobacco, forty-nine thousand nine hundred and fifty pounds ; wheat, one hundred and thirty-seven thousand nine hundred and ninety bushels ; Indian corn, twenty-two"~million four hundred and forty-six thousand five hundred and fifty-two bushels. The value of live stock in the State was placed at $19,403,662. Of lands occupied, at $54,738,634. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 139 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXII. Action of the Legislature in regard to Chickasaw School Lands? Establishment of Land Office? Public-school system of Natchez? Institute for the blind? Hutchinson's Code? What of the cotton crop of 1848-9? Overflow? Cholera? Financial depression? Close of Governor Matthews' term? His successor? Whig nominee for Governor? Mississippi's representative in the National Legislature? Communication from these Senators and Representatives to Governor Quitman 5 What question was in violent agitation ? Action of Governor Quitman and the Legislature of Mississippi on the com- munication from their representatives in Congress? Governor Quit- man's suggestions in regard to a general convention of the slave-hold- ing States? What of the Nashville Convention of 1850? Who was chosen President? What high official position did Judge Sharkey decline? Who was the author of the " Omnibus Bill" in Congress, and what were some of its provisions? How were the political parties in Mississippi divided on the merits of the "Compromise Measure" of 1850? To what did their controversies finally lead? State some facts drawn from the census of 1850. Railroads then in operation throughout the State? The banking system of the State? The State militia? Institution for the insane and for the blind at Jackson? Why had not the common-school system of the State proved more efficient? Amendments to the School Law? The University in 1850? Number of newspapers and other periodicals in the State at that time ? What of the cotton crop of 1850? 140 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXIII. 1850-1852. 1. In 1850 the expedition against Cuba by Lopez was fitted out. Governor Quitman, of Mississippi, whose charac- ter and training rendered him the friend of the oppressed in every clime, openly sympathized with the enterprise, and for this he was arrested early in 185 1 by the order of the President of the United States and carried to New Orleans to await his trial before the Federal Court, on the charge of having violated the laws of the land. 2. The arrest and removal of the Chief Executive of a State from his own seat of government caused great excite- ment, especially in Mississippi, where Governor Quitman was universally beloved and admired. Immediately after his arrest the Governor resigned his office, being unwilling to hold it while a charge of violating the law was pending against him. He accompanied his resignation with a letter to the people of the State, explaining his position and pro- testing against the arbitrary course of the President in caus- ing his arrest. 3. The people received this letter with feelings of mingled regret and indignation, and the act of the United States Gov- ernment was everywhere condemned. Governor Quitman was tried on the charges preferred against him and received honorable acquittal. The upright and manly course pursued by him during this trouble with the Government endeared him still more to the people of his own State, as was evinced by the action of the Democratic State Convention, which, in the fall of 185 1, renominated him for the office of Governor. 4. After the resignation of Governor Quitman, the duties of the office devolved, as the Constitution required, upon the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. HI President of the Senate, who, in this instance, was Judge John J. Guion, a prominent lawyer of the western portion of the State. He filled the office of Governor from the 3d of February to the 3d of November, 185 1, when he left the Executive to fill the position of Circuit Judge, to which he had been elected. For the first time in the history of the State an interregnum occurred in the office of Governor. On the 25th of November the vacancy was filled by the election of James Whitfield, acting President of the Senate. 5. The resignation of Judge Sharkey, and the appoint- ment of Collin S. Tarpley to a seat on the Supreme Bench, occurred during the incumbency of Governor Whitfield. His right to make the appointment was questioned, in con- sequence of which Judge Tarpley resigned. 6. In the fall of 185 1, the party in Mississippi opposed to the adoption of the " Compromise Measure'* nominated General Quitman as their candidate for the office of Gov- ernor. A convention was soon afterward held by the more conservative members of the party, which declared unani- mously for acquiescence to the measures of the bill intro- duced by Mr. Clay. Upon this declaration General Quitman withdrew from the canvass, believing that some one more in accord with the spirit of this convention should be chosen. Though Jefferson Davis, then representing Mississippi in Congress, had opposed the passage of Mr. Clay's bill, as " being at variance with the general purposes of the Union, and so destructive of the harmony and mutual benefit which the Constitution was intended to secure," he was nominated for the office of Governor by the same party which had proved too conservative for the fiery spirit of General Quit- man. 7. Mr. Davis resigned his office to accept the nomination for Governor at the hands of the Democratic or " States' Rights" party only a few weeks previous to the general election. His opponent, the champion of the Whig party, 142 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. was Henry S. Foote, who in Congress had warmly espoused the principles of Mr. Clay's bill. Jacob Thompson took an active part in this campaign, having been nominated for Congress on the ticket with Mr. Davis. 8. After a short but exciting contest, the Whigs succeeded in electing their entire ticket, the majority of Judge Foote over Mr. Davis being nine hundred and ninety-nine. John J. McRae was appointed by the Governor to fill the vacancy caused in Congress by the resignation of Mr. Davis, and at the next meeting of the Legislature, Stephen Adams was elected for the remainder of the term. The vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Foote was filled by the appointment of Walter Brooke. The Con- gressmen elected at this time were Benjamin D. Nabors, John A. Wilcox, J. D. Freeman, and Albert G. Brown. 9. The administration of Governor Foote proved entirely satisfactory to both political parties, his attitude toward the compromise question, and against the doctrine of secession, satisfying the peace-loving element of both parties. That the State was advancing rapidly in material prosperity no one could doubt. In 1852, the Mississippi & Tennessee Rail- road, a short line from Memphis, Tennessee, to Grenada, Mississippi, was incorporated by the Legislature. The Mobile & New Orleans road, chartered the same year, would, it was hoped, in passing through our State, develop one of the finest tracts of country in the South. 10. Great inducements were offered to persons wishing to immigrate to the State at this period. An Act was passed in 1853 granting pre-emption to actual settlers on certain lands granted the State to aid in the construction of the Mobile & New Orleans Railroad. 11. In 1853, the Democratic party in Mississippi again came into power. John J. McRae was nominated for Gov- ernor, and in due time defeated his opponent of the Whig HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 143 party, Charles Fontaine. Governor McRae was of Scotch parentage, and belonged to a family possessing an unusual degree of intellect and ambition. Brought to Mississippi in his infancy, he was educated at an Ohio university, and returned home to study law under that eminent jurist, Judge Pray, of Pearlington. 12. After receiving license to practice law, he removed to Paulding, Jasper county, Mississippi, and for a short time assumed control of the Clarion, which had been established there in 1837. Wishing to engage more actively in the material development of the State, he disposed of his paper, and founded the town of Enterprise, at the head of naviga- tion on the Chickasawhaya river. He secured from the Legislature an appropriation of thirty thousand dollars for the improvement of that river, his steamboat, the Triumph, being the first vessel that ever plowed its waters. 13. Soon afterward, McRae entered politics, and was elected to represent Clarke county in the Lower House of the Legislature. He was made Speaker of the House, and soon became the most popular man in the State. He was elected to the State Senate from Clarke and Jasper counties, and was appointed by the Governor to fill the vacancy occurring upon the resignation of Mr. Davis. On the 18th of February, 1852, he resigned his seat in the United States Senate, and the vacancy was filled the same day by the election of Stephen R. Adams. In the election of 1853, McRae was swept into the Governor's seat by a very large majority. 14. The Congressmen-elect, at the time of Governor McRae's accession to office, were William Barksdale, Daniel B. Wright, W. S. Barry, O. R. Singleton, and Wiley P. Harris. Albert G. Brown was elected to the Senate of the United States, in 1853, for the long term. 144 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXIII. What connection did Governor Quitman, of Mississippi, hold with the expedition of Lopez against Cuba? What of his arrest by the President of the United States? Excitement consequent thereon? Resignation of the Governor? Result of his trial? Upon whom did the duties of Governor devolve after the resignation of Governor Quitman ? How was the interregnum caused by the election of Guion to another office filled? Resignation of Judge Sharkey and the appointment of his successor? Nomination of Quitman for Gov- ernor ? Division of sentiment on Compromise Measure and withdrawal of Quitman from the canvass? Nomination of Jefferson Davis for Governor? His opponent? Triumph of the Whigs and election of Foote? By what majority? Who was appointed to fill Mr. Davis' vacant seat in Congress ? Mr. Foote's? Congressmen elected at this time? Administration of Governor Foote? Prosperity of the State? Railroad lines? Inducements to immigrants? Who was elected Governor to succeed Foote? By what party? Outline of McRae's life and character? Congressmen-elect at the time of McRae's acces- sion to office? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 145 CHAPTER XXIV. 1852-1856. 1. The chief subjects of discussion in Mississippi at this time were the various insidious attacks made by the people of the North upon the institutions of the South, and to such a height of popular excitement was the public mind raised that no politician stood the least chance for election who showed the slightest tendency to 'sympathize with the views of the Northern people. Gradually the conviction was fastening itself upon the minds of thoughtful men, that these controversies could only be settled by war. Candidates for public favor were driven along by the expressed will of the people, and all the messages and debates of the period were colored by the controverted subjects. The love of the Union, however, was still strong, and good men every- where dreaded the issue. Among these statesmen was William Yerger, the great "Constitutional lawyer," who rendered himself famous by the delivery of his individual opinion in the celebrated case of "the State of Mississippi against Hezron A. Johnson," in 1853, an opinion contrary not only to the decisions of the highest legal authority, but, as he knew before the deliverance of his opinion, fatal to his own prospects of official advancement. 2. In 185 1 the Whigs, under the aggressive leadership of Henry Stuart Foote, regained for a short time their lease of power, but as soon as the " Compromise Measure " ceased to be the leading issue, the Democratic or States' Rights party regained the ascendency, and in the turmoil and strife of succeeding years the Whig party, whose past record was so glorious, gradually became absorbed into other organizations. The ablest of the Whig leaders opposed the doctrine of 146 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. secession or withdrawal from the Union to the last ; Judge Sharkey, the most conspicuous figure among them, remain- ing firm in his devotion to the Union through all the perilous years of the Civil war. So pure was his character, however, and so lofty his devotion to principle, that he maintained the respect of all classes of people, and at the close of the terri- ble struggle between the North and South, was chosen by the people of his State to act as mediator between them and an offended Government. 3. Governor McRae was a strong advocate of the internal improvement of the State, but believed that it could be effected without the aid of the Federal Government. He was the decided opponent -of a protective tariff, believing that duties should be laid on "strictly for revenue," making protection always the incident. As Mississippi was pecu- liarly an agricultural State, he believed that the best efforts of the State Government should be given to the encourage- ment and promotion of that branch of industry, and that the whole people should be encouraged to unite their efforts in the development of agricultural science, so important to the interests of a planting community. 4. On the 13th of January, 1854, the Legislature of Mississippi endorsed the administration of President Pierce in the following resolutions, adopted in the Senate : Resolved, First: That we cordially approve of the administration of Franklin Pierce ; that we recognize in him a firm upholder of the Union of States and a fearless defender of States' Rights, as expounded and defended by the Fathers of the Republic. Resolved, Second: That the policy of the President, as exhibited in his message and executive appointments, in discountenancing all further slavery agitations, "in and out" of Congress, meets our hearty approbation, both on account of its consonance to his known antece- dents and pledges before his election, and because we believe that the discussion of the exciting questions connected therewith is eminently dangerous to the institution itself and destructive to the best interests of the country. Resolved, Third: That the appointment by the President of the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 147 favorite son of Mississippi, Colonel Jefferson Davis, to a seat in the Cabinet, is just cause of rejoicing to the people of the State ; that the President, in selecting him to preside over the War Department, while he exhibited an instance of practical devotion to the interests of the whole nation in the choice of one possessing such eminent abilities, at the same time manifested a becoming deference to the voice of the people of the whole South in making an integral portion of his admin- istration that hero-statesman, who is no less distinguished for his chivalry on the field of battle, his wisdom in the Cabinet, and his elo- quence in the Senate, than for his patriotic devotion to the interests of every part of our common country. These resolutions are quoted as expressing the sentiments of a majority of the people of Mississippi during the decade that preceded the Civil war. 5. John J. Pettus, Secretary of State during the adminis- tration of Governor McRae, was one of the most pronounced States' Rights Democrats in the South. He was a states- man of great intellectual gifts and wielded great influence over the Democratic party. At the end of Governor McRae's first term his hold upon the affections of the people was so strong that he again received the nomination of his party for Governor. He was elected over his opponent, F. M. Rogers, the nominee of the Whig party. The mem- bers of Congress from the State at this time, 1855, were Daniel B.Wright, H. S. Bennett, William Barksdale, W. A. Lake, and ex-Governor John A. Quitman. 6. As an instance of the material progress made by the State under the supervising care of Governor McRae, we notice the great improvement made in the condition of the bottom lands under an efficient levee system. James L. Alcorn, a prominent planter of this section of the State, was made President of a " Superior Board of Levee Com- missioners," by whose exertions the products and popula- tion of the bottom counties were largely increased. The " Chickasaw School Fund" was greatly benefited by the workings of the levee system. Previous to its organization 148 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. those lands which were intermixed with State lands were entirely without purchasers. 7. The legislation of this period was a great improve- ment on that of the past. The acts of the Legislature favoring agriculture and commerce were hailed with delight by the people of the State. The years 1855-6 saw the birth of a new but short-lived party in the United States. This was the American or " Know-Nothing" party, which drew much of its strength from the old Whig party. The platform of this party was opposition to the suffrage of foreigners until after a lengthy residence in the United States, and also to the election of Roman Catholics to office. This party gained but few recruits in Mississippi, though ex-Governor Foote, who had removed to California, identi- fied himself with the Know-Nothing party in that State. 8. The Republican party in the United States had birth in 1856, its platform being open hostility to slavery. Its nominees for that year were John C. Fremont for President, and William L. Drayton for Vice-President. The National Democratic Convention adopted again the Compromise measures of 1850, approved of the territorial legislation of that year, and nominated for the presidential office James Buchanan, of Pennsylvania, and for Vice-President, John C. Breckinridge, of Kentucky. The election resulted in a complete victory for the Democratic party. That party now held all others in abeyance in Mississippi. In 1856, Hon. W. L. Sharkey, W. P. Harris, and Henry T. Ellett were appointed to revise the Code of Laws of the State. The work was performed in an able and skillful manner, was accepted by the Legislature at its next session, and is known as the Revised Code of 1857. 9. It was during these years that the struggle in Kansas, between the pro-slavery and anti-slavery parties, was going on. As Congress had passed a law that the people of Kansas were to decide whether or not the Territory should HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 149 have slavery, large numbers of settlers from both the Northern and Southern States emigrated to Kansas, and the "border warfare," a short but sanguinary struggle, began between the opponents and the advocates of slavery. This struggle brought into public notice a fanatical old man, an ardent advocate for the abolition of slavery, named John Brown, known in Kansas as " Ossawatomie." He attained great notoriety there by his connection with the many deeds of violence committed under the guise of the love of free- dom. Encouraged by this ill-earned fame, he afterward planned what is known in history as " John Brown's Raid on Harper's Ferry." QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXIV. What were the chief subjects of discussion in Mississippi at this time? What conviction was fastening itself upon the minds of thoughtful people? Candidates for public favor? The case of William Yerger? In what year did the Whigs regain for a short while their lease of power? What party absorbed all others in the South? The Whig leaders? Judge Sharkey? Of what was Gov- ernor McRae a strong advocate? Give his opinions on other important questions. In what manner was Pierce's administration endorsed by the Legislature of Mississippi? Give an outline-sketch of John J. Pettus? How many terms did Governor McRae serve? His opponent during the canvass for the second term ? Members of Congress from the State at this time? Material improvement of the State under Governor McRae? Who was placed at the head of a " Board of Levee Commissioners" formed for the improvement of the bottom lands? Improved legislation? Birth of the " Know-Nothing Party?" Platform of this party? Was it popular in Mississippi? When was the Republican party first organized? Its platform? Candidates? Plat- form and candidates of Democratic party ? Result of election ? Who were appointed to revise the Code of Laws in 1857 ? What of the struggle in Kansas? Career of " Ossawatomie Brown " in Kansas? John Brown's Raid on Harper's Ferry? 150 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXV. 1857-1858. 1. Near the close of Governor McRae's second term of office, the Democratic party nominated William McWillie for Governor, and L. Q. C. Lamar, Reuben Davis, William Barksdale, Otho R. Singleton, and John A. Quitman for Congress. The Whigs nominated E. M. Yerger for Gov- ernor. No man or party could, at this period, resist the impetus of the States' Rights doctrine, and the Democratic candidates were swept into office by a large majority. 2. Mississippi has, at no period in her history, been more ably represented in Congress than at this time. Her Sena- tors, Albert G. Brown and Jefferson Davis, the latter having been elected March 4, 1857, were the acknowledged leaders and champions of Southern rights, and bravely resisted the attacks of the fanatical anti-slavery men upon the institu- tions of the South. 3. When Congress met in December, 1857, it was appar- ent that slavery was to be the great issue of the session. The agitation of the Kansas Bill was at its height, and the strength of the opposing sides in both Houses of Congress was brought to bear upon this question. Robert J. Walker, who, after filling the office of Senator from Mississippi with distinction, had been promoted to the head of the Treasury Department under President Polk, was now filling the office of Governor of Kansas, by the appointment of President Buchanan, though the hope of the administration that his counsels and influence would allay sectional hostility proved futile. 4. Senator Brown, who, during the period of his service in Congress, had engaged in the consideration of many HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 151 subjects of importance to the Union, was a fluent and fear- less speaker, distinguished for the fullness and accuracy of his knowledge, the vigor of his logic, and the fairness of his reasoning. 5. The following picture of Senator Davis, drawn by a contemporary " Black Republican," gives some idea of the JEFFERSON DAVIS. opinion entertained of the gallant defender of " Southern Rights" by his political enemies: " Davis, in listening to an anti-slavery speech in the Senate, sits erect and composed, impressing the spectator who observed his easy but authoritative bearing, with the notion of some slight superiority, some hardly-acknowledged leadership. In face and form he represents the Norman type with singular fidelity. He is tall and sinewy, with fair hair, gray eyes, which are clear rather than bright, high forehead, straight nose, thin, compressed lips, and pointed chin. His cheeks are 152 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. hollow, and the vicinity of his mouth is deeply furrowed with inter- secting lines. Leanness of face, length and sharpness of features, and length of limb and intensity of expression, rendered acute by angular facial outline, are the general characteristics of his appear- ance. Davis' voice is what the opera people call a barytone. It serves well for the purpose of public speaking, for, though monotonous, it is pleasing to the ear, and fills a large circle with the sonorous cadence. He is didactic, states rules and principles rather than facts and argu- ments. He gives the ultimate inference, but suppresses the mental process by which he discovered it. When he rises to any question, you may take it for granted that he is master of the subject. The faculty of generalization would seem to be the dominant one of his mind. He sometimes affects the pathetic, but with doubtful results, and he shuns the realms of the imagination. Even in his speeches you can not fail to recognize the evidence of great administrative capacity. He is equally well qualified for shining in council and con- troversy." 6. L. Q. C. Lamar, Representative from the First District, delivered his maiden speech in the House, on the Kansas question, January 13, 1858. He stated, in the beginning, that with him the promotion of Southern interests was sec- ondary only to the preservation of Southern honor, and that the time had come when the South must put a stop to Northern aggressions, regardless of all risks or consequences. His eloquence and manliness, as shown by the entire speech, elicited the highest encomiums from both press and people, and placed the young orator at once in the front rank of Southern speakers. Mr. Lamar had removed from Georgia to Mississippi in early life, had been elected on account of his scholarly attainments to a professorship in the University of Mississippi, and was now, at the opening of his political career, beginning to show forth those qualifications of mind and heart that, for nearly half a century, were to keep him in the front ranks of the political arena. In the course of this protracted debate on the Kansas-Nebraska question, Barksdale, Singleton, and Davis, all of Mississippi, delivered masterly and effective speeches. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 168 7. General Quitman, whose moral heroism was equal to his courage on the field of battle, alone of all the Mississippi delegation, took the opposite side of this question. Differing from the majority of his Southern friends, and following the suggestions of his conscience, General Quitman voted against them. All accorded him that right, and not one of them reproached him for the act. 8. In March, 1857, Jacob Thompson was appointed Secre- tary of the Interior under President Buchanan. Thus another name was added to the long list of eminent states- men from Mississippi who had rendered themselves illustri- ous by their services at the National Capital. An Act was passed this year to aid in the construction of the New Orleans, Jackson & Great Northern Railroad, of which Governor McWillie was one of the Directors. On the 31st of March, 1858, the railroad was finished, forming the con- necting link between New Orleans, the great emporium of the South, and the new and flourishing capital of Mississippi. On the arrival at the depot in Jackson of the first train that passed over the road, bells were rung, cannon fired, and all the manifestations of a grand jubilee made. 9. A loan of the Chickasaw School Fund was made in the year 1858, to the four leading railroad companies whose lines traversed portions of the State, the New Orleans, Jackson & Great Northern, the Mobile & Ohio, the Missis- sippi Central, and the Mississippi & Tennessee, each com- pany receiving an equal share of the loan. 10. Governor McRae retired from office at the close of his second term, carrying with him the respect and good-will of the people of the State. Governor McWillie was inau- gurated under very favorable circumstances. William McWillie was born in South Carolina, November 17, 1795, migrated to Mississippi in 1845, was elected Governor of the State in November, 1857, and was inaugurated January, 1858, being the fifteenth Chief Magistrate of the Common- wealth, 154 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ii. The first message of the new Governor related almost entirely to the great material wants of the State, railroads and levees. " The world once looked to the Nile for bread ; ( in all time to come it will have to look to the Mississippi valley for cotton," said Governor McWillie. 12. The University of Mississippi was reported at this time to be in a highly prosperous condition. It was easily accessible to every portion of the State, and liberal appro- priations had furnished it with all the appliances requisite I for imparting an advanced and liberal education. This grand institution has ever been the pride and boast of Mississippians. From its walls have issued the noblest specimens of Southern chivalry and manhood, those who were able in times of peace the "applause of listening Senates to command," and in time of a nation's peril equally able to vanquish the armed hosts who dared to invade their native land. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXV. Whom did the Democratic party nominate to succeed Governor McRae? Who were the nominees of that party for Congress? What question at this time dominated all others? Who represented Missis- sippi in the National Senate? Of what were they the acknowledged champions? The great issue in Congress that session? The Kansas Bill? What offices did Robt. J. Walker fill after having served Mississippi in the Senate of the United States? For what was Senator Albert G. Brown distinguished? Give an outline-sketch of Senator Davis as drawn by a " Black Republican." When did L. Q. C. Lamar make his first speech in the National House of Representa- tives? His eloquence and manliness as shown by his speech? Early history of Senator Lamar? Attitude of Barksdale, Singleton, and Davis on the Kansas-Nebraska question? Of General Quitman? When was Jacob Thompson appointed Secretary of the Interior? What of the New Orleans, Jackson & Great Northern Railroad? Loan of the Chickasaw School Fund? Close of Governor McRae's second term? Inauguration of his successor? Sketch of William McWillie? The first message of the new Governor? Report of the University of Mississippi? Character of the students issuing from this institution ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 155 CHAPTER XXVI. i 8 59-1 860. 1. In 1858, while still a member of Congress, General J. A. Quitman died. His loss was deplored by the people of the State, who looked upon him as both hero and statesman. Ex-Governor John J. McRae was chosen to succeed him in office. 2. On the nth of October, 1858, Jefferson Davis deliv- ered his celebrated speech before the Democracy of Boston, Massachusetts. In this address, which was the subject of much criticism throughout the United States, Mr. Davis re-affirmed the doctrine that Congress had no power over slavery in the territories beyond that of protecting it, as it was taken there by the Constitution, and the people pre- served the right of determining the character of their institu- tions for themselves. 3. The majority of the Northern papers raised a loud clamor against Mr. Davis when this address was published, and he was also condemned by a portion of the Southern press, but the young and vigorous States' Rights party, through both press and people, hailed the utterance of these sentiments in the stronghold of abolitionism, with enthusiasm and delight. 4. During the latter portion of Governor McWillie's term, his popularity was much impaired by his free use of the pardoning power. Being a man of unusual susceptibility of feeling and goodness of heart, his sympathies were easily enlisted in behalf of criminals who had been condemned to undergo a rigorous punishment, and in pardoning them it was thought the ends of justice were sometimes defeated. Alluding to the fact that he had brought censure upon him- 156 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. self by thus endeavoring to temper justice with mercy, Gov- ernor McWillie said in one of his messages: "I would assuredly rather be censured for being too merciful, than to be praised for over-severity or cruelty." 5. The condition of the country had by this time become so precarious that the Governor, in his annual message, called the attention of the people to the attitude assumed by the Federal Government toward the Southern States. " If I could/' said he, " consistently with my duty avoid this question, I would most assuredly do so, for in magnitude and importance it swallows up all others. I approach it with a deep sense of the responsibility of my position and the mighty issues involved. I can truly say for myself that if I have one object of earthly idolatry, it is to be found in my devotion to the Union." 6. The agitation of the slavery question, both in and out of Congress, continued. The raid on Harper's Ferry by John Brown and his men in the fall of 1859, did more to exasperate the Southern people than all the legislation Con- gress had yet been able to effect. In reference to this atrocious outrage, Governor McWillie, in his last message to the Legislature, said : " I would urge upon you the propriety of providing for the arming of the State militia, particularly the volunteer companies. The mouth of the cannon and the glitter of steel are much stronger arguments of power than those of the brain. The outbreak at Harper's Ferry might just as easily have happened in Mississippi as in Vir- ginia." These were the sentiments of a man noted for his pacific disposition, and indicated the state of the country that was ripening for civil war. 7. The Democratic Convention of 1859 nominated for the executive office the Hon. John J. Pettus, the noted "war Governor." The nominees for Congress were those who had served the preceding term, with the exception of the representative from the Fifth District ; General Quitman hav- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 157 ing died during his term of office, John J. McRae was elected to fill his place. The entire ticket was, of course, elected, the Whig party making little or no opposition. 8. Governor Pettus was one of the ablest of the Southern Rights leaders and the open advocate of secession. His inaugural address presented briefly the principles and policy which were to govern his administration. Education, agri- culture and the internal improvement of the State were lead- ing topics. He predicted with remarkable accuracy the consequences that would ensue should the Republican party gain the ascendency in the government of the United States. 9. He advised the Southern States to unite uncompromis- ingly against the doctrines of abolitionism and the aggressions of the Northern States, resisting by force of arms, if neces- sary, any encroachment upon their rights. Governor Pettus recommended to the Legislature the levying of a special tax on all goods, wares, and merchandise offered for sale in the State, that were manufactured elsewhere. Foreseeing that the State would soon be thrown upon her own resources by the exigencies of war, he wished in this way to compel the people to adopt measures that would render them self-sup- porting. 10. In April, i860, the National Democratic Convention met at Charleston, South Carolina, for the purpose of nom- inating a candidate for the presidency, and otherwise pro- viding for a campaign against the Republican party, which had now grown to formidable proportions. This convention was composed of delegates from all the Southern States and many of the Northern States. The Mississippi delegation was composed of some of the ablest men in the State. 11. Unfortunately, this convention was characterized by the same division of sentiment that prevailed elsewhere among members of the different sections. The Northern delegates having a majority, passed resolutions, which, 158 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. being obnoxious to the Southern members, were resented with indignation. 12. These unhappy dissensions at last culminated in the withdrawal of the delegates from several Southern States. Under the leadership of William L. Yancey, of Alabama, these delegates, after their withdrawal, called a convention to be held the following June, in Richmond, Virginia. The remaining members of the Charleston convention adjourned without making any nominations, to meet in Baltimore, Maryland, June, i860. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXVI. What of the death of General John A. Quitman ? Who was elected to succeed him ? When was the celebrated speech of Mr. Davis delivered at Faneuil Hall, Boston ? Comments of Northern press ? How was Governor McWillie's popularity impaired during his second term of office ? His defense of himself ? To what did the Governor's annual message call the attention of the people ? In view of the outrage at Harper's Ferry, what did Governor McWillie urge upon the Legisla- ture of that State? Who was the Democratic nominee for Governor in 1859? The nominees for Congress? Was the entire ticket elected? Who succeeded John A. Quitman ? Governor Pettus as a popular leader? His inaugural address? Recommendation to the Legislature? What of the celebrated " Charleston Convention " in i860? Division of sentiment among its members? Withdrawal of Southern dele- gates? Adjournment of Convention? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 150 CHAPTER XXVII. i860. 1. The action of the Charleston Convention created intense excitement all over the South. The feeling became very general that a dissolution of the Union was imminent, and, to prevent this, if possible, a new party was organized under the name of the " Constitutional Union" party. At a convention held in Baltimore, June, i860, this party, which was composed mainly of remnants of the old Whig party, nominated John Bell, of Tennessee, for President, and Edward Everett, of Massachusetts, for Vice-Presi- dent. 2. No platform was adopted by this party, except what its name indicated, its mission, confessedly, being to concili- ate both sections of the country, and avert the threatened dissolution. This young and vigorous party obtained many recruits from the ranks of the older organizations, especially in the South. Many of the most influential members of the old Whig party — now extinct — identified themselves with the Union party, counseled against rashness, and pleaded for the preservation of the Union, for which their forefathers had bled and died. 3. The Richmond Convention met only to adjourn until after the Baltimore Convention. That convention split into two distinct bodies, and each one put forth a Presidential ticket, an error fatal to the prospects of the South. One wing of the party nominated John C. Breckinridge for President, and Joseph Lane for Vice-President, while the other nominated Stephen A. Douglass for President, and Herschel V. Johnson, of Georgia, for Vice-President. The Republican party, hitherto insignificant, met at Chicago 160 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. and nominated Abraham Lincoln for President, with Hanni- bal Hamlin for Vice-President. In consequence of the division in the ranks of the opposi- tion, the Republican ticket was elected by immense majori- ties, the party springing from infancy to full life at a single bound. When the results of the election were ascertained, the feeling became general that war — civil war — was inevi- table. 4. The annual message of Governor Pettus, issued soon after the Presidential election, failed to congratulate the country upon its prospects for prosperity and happiness. In his usual strong and convincing style, the Governor enumerated the grievances the South had been made to endure, and counseled a separation — peaceable, if possible — between the Northern and Southern States. " Can the lives, liberty, and prosperity of the people of the South," said he, "be entrusted to the keeping of that sectional majority which must hereafter administer the Federal Gov- ernment ? " On the 29th of November, i860, Mississippi called for a convention to be held on the 20th of December following. Delegates to that convention were elected by the different counties to a State Convention, to be held at Jackson, on the 7th of January, 1861, for the purpose of considering the existing relations between the State and Federal Govern- ments. 5. On. the 29th of December, i860, South Carolina passed an ordinance of secession, dissolving her relations with the Federal Government, declaring that Congress had violated the Constitution, and that the principles of the Republican party were antagonistic to her rights as a sover- eign State. Commissioners were sent to Washington to adjust, if possible, the new relations between the two Gov- ernments. 6. On the 7th of January, 1861, the memorable Secession HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 161 Convention met in Jackson, and elected as President, William S. Barry, of Lowndes. A resolution was offered, by L. Q. C. Lamar, that a committee of fifteen be appointed to prepare and report, as soon as possible, an ordinance for the withdrawal of the State from the Union, with a view to the establishment of a new Confederacy, to be composed of the seceding States. 7. The majority of the delegates to this convention were in favor of the resolution, though a respectable minority urged against precipitate action on the part of Mississippi, counseling forbearance and delay. James L. Alcorn, of Coahoma county, offered a modifying section to the ordi- nance of secession, but it was lost by a vote of seventy-four to twenty-five. Walter Brooke, of Warren county, also offered an amendment, submitting to the qualified electors of the State the ordinance for their ratification or rejection. As will readily be seen, the delegates for and against secession were among the ablest men the State afforded, and they recognized fully the grave responsibilities resting upon them in this crisis in the history of their State. 8. On the 9th of January, 1861, the vote was taken, and it was found that a majority of the delegates — eighty- four to fifteen — were in favor of immediate secession. The ordinance of secession then passed, Mississippi being the second State to withdraw from the Union. The Constitution of 1832 was readopted by the Convention of 1861, with the addition of some important amendments. 9. The news of the passage of the ordinance of secession created intense excitement and enthusiasm throughout the State, tending to solidify public opinion ; those who had doubted the propriety of the measure determining to abide by the expressed will of the majority. Enthusiastic ratification meetings were held all over the State, and the action of the convention indorsed and applauded. Had the ordinance, according to Mr. Brooke's 162 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. resolution, been submitted to the vote of the people, the result would have been the same. The people were almost a unit in favor of secession. State and sectional pride swelled high, the people being convinced that if war ensued, it would be of short duration, directed against the might and power of a united South. 10. On the 14th of January, 1861, soon after receiving news of the secession of their State, the Senators and Representatives from Mississippi resigned their seats in the Congress of the United States and returned home, where they were received with an enthusiastic welcome. Jacob Thompson, Secretary of the Interior, resigned his seat in the Cabinet on the same day that Mississippi seceded from the Union. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXVII. Effect of the action of the Charleston Convention on the South? Organization of a new party? Its nominees on the Presidential ticket? What was the mission of this party? Members of the old Whig party? The Richmond Convention? The Baltimore Convention? What two tickets were put forth by this body? Consequence of this division ? Annual message of the Governor? Mississippi State Conven- tion ? When did South Carolina pass the Ordinance of Secession? Commissioners to Washington? Secession Convention in Jackson? Resolution offered by Mr. Lamar? The majority of the delegates to this Convention ? Minority? Amendments? Vote on the Ordinance of Secession ? When passed ? What Constitution was readopted ? How did the adoption of the Ordinance of Secession affect the masses of the people? Ratification meetings? When did the Senators and Representatives from Mississippi resign their seats in Congress? Jacob Thompson ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 163 CHAPTER XXVIII. 1861. 1. The Secession Convention of Mississippi passed the following ordinance also : " The State of Mississippi hereby gives her consent to form a Federal Union with such of the States as may have seceded or may secede from the Union of the United States of America, upon the basis of the present Constitution of the United States." 2. In order to ascertain the real sentiments of the differ- ent slave-holding States, commissioners were sent to repre- sent Mississippi before the Legislatures of the different Southern States. This commission represented the intellect and patriotism of the State, and was fruitful in securing prompt action on the part of the greater number of the States addressed. Hon. Henry Dickinson was sent as Com- missioner to Delaware, A. H. Handy to Maryland, Walter Brooke and Fulton Anderson to Virginia, Jacob Thompson to North Carolina, G. S. Gaines to Florida, W. L. Harris and T. W. White to Georgia, W. S. Featherstone to Ken- tucky, Thomas J. Wharton to Tennessee, Joseph W. Mat- thews to Alabama, Daniel Russell to Missouri, General R. Fall to Arkansas, Wirt Adams to Louisiana, H. H. Miller to Texas, and Charles E. Hooker to South Carolina. 3. The States of Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and Alabama seceded from the Union in rapid succession, and a conven- tion of seceded States was appointed for February 4, 1861, at Montgomery, Alabama. On the 15th of January, 1861, in response to a call from Governor Pettus, the Legislature of Mississippi met in extraordinary session, for the purpose of securing concert of action and effecting purposes of defense. The State was called upon and responded nobly. 164 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. The different counties at once began the formation of military organizations, and the State soon assumed the appearance of a vast military camp. Seven volunteer com- panies were sent from Mississippi to aid in taking possession of the forts and navy-yards at Pensacola by the States of Alabama and Florida. 4. The State of Mississippi made a large appropriation to assist in carrying on the war, and wealthy private citizens in various portions of the State extended valuable pecuniary aid in equipping volunteers for service. Ex-Governor Albert G. Brown was conspicuous for his generosity in behalf of the State, and Jefferson Davis and Jacob Thomp- son guaranteed the payment in May or June, 1861, of a large sum for the purchase of arms. The different railroads in the State tendered free transportation of troops and munitions of war whenever the State should require it. Governor Pettus recommended the placing of all volunteers on the same footing in regard to receiving pecuniary aid from the State, also the appropriation of a sufficient sum to each company to defray all necessary expenses. 5. Jefferson Davis was commissioned Major-General in the State army, and Earl Van Dorn, Charles Clarke, James L. Alcorn, and Christopher H. Mott, Brigadier-Generals. General Mott was afterward elected Colonel of the Nine- teenth Mississippi Regiment, and his position as Brigadier- General being vacant, General A. M. West, of Holly Springs, was appointed to fill the place. Richard G. Hinds was made Adjutant-General. The States which had withdrawn from the Union met in convention on the 4th of February, 1861, in Montgomery, Alabama. Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina were represented in this convention. Howell Cobb, of Georgia, was elected President of this distinguished body, whose deliberations were characterized by great harmony. 6. A new Government known as the " Confederate HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 1G5 States of America" was organized, with Jefferson Davis, of Mississippi, at its head as President, and Alexander H. Stephens, of Georgia, as Vice-President. The inauguration of the officers of the Provisional Government took place on the 18th of February, 1861. The inauguration of Abra- ham Lincoln took place on the 4th of March, 1861. 7. Commissioners were at once appointed by President Davis to proceed to Washington City for the purpose of negotiating with the Government of the United States, and bringing about, if possible, a peaceable adjustment of all existing difficulties. This able commission, composed of Crawford, of Georgia, Forsyth, of Alabama, and Rowan, of Louisiana, found, after their arrival in Washington, that all efforts to bring about amicable relations between the two Governments would be unavailing. The officers of the United States Government refused to receive the Con- federate Commissioners officially, and persistently ignored the Government which had delegated them. 8. After the election of Mr. Davis to the Presidency of the Confederate States, General Earl Van Dorn, a graduate of West Point, and an officer of distinction in the war with Mexico, was appointed Major-General of the State troops. Soon afterward, however, General Van Dorn, who had been a Major in the United States army and preferred the regular service, requested to be transferred to the Confederate army. He was commissioned Colonel in the regular service, and ordered to take possession of the forts and arsenals in Texas, together with the ''Star of the West," a man-of-war lying off Galveston. 9. General Charles Clarke, of Bolivar county, was then promoted to the office of Major-General, and William Barks- dale was commissioned Quartermaster-General on the same date. Like General Van Dorn, General Barksdale resigned his commission to join the Confederate service, and was made Colonel of the Thirteenth Mississippi Regiment. 166 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. At an early date in 1861, the Confederate Government had secured possession of all the forts and arsenals within their limits, except Fort Sumter, belonging to South Carolina, and several smaller forts along the coast. The taking of Fort Sumter by the Confederate Commander, General Beaure- gard, on the 13th of April, 1861, raised the courage and enthusiasm of the Southern people to the highest pitch. 10. Two days after the fall of Fort Sumter, President Lincoln called for seventy-five thousand troops for the defense of the Union. Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Missouri refused to send volunteers to fight against their brethren of the South, and Virginia, immediately after the call was made, withdrew from the Union. Arkansas, North Carolina, and Tennessee followed soon after, greatly encouraging and strengthening the Southern cause. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXVIII. What ordinance did the Secession Convention of Mississippi pass relative to forming a Union with other seceding States? Commis- sioners sent from Mississippi to other slave-holding States? What other Southern States seceded in rapid succession? Why was an extra session of the Legislature called? What measures of defense were at once taken? Volunteer companies? Appropriations by the State and by private individuals? Railroads? Who received a commis- sion of Major-General in the State's forces ? Who were commissioned Brigadier-Generals? Convention of Southern delegates? Met when and where? What government was organized ? President and Vice- President of the Southern Confederacy? Commissioners to Wash- ington? How received? Who was made commander of the State troops in place of Jefferson Davis? Transfer of General Van Dorn to the Confederate Army? Who was made Major-General of State troops after Van Dorn's resignation? What of* General William Barksdale's commission? What of the taking of Fort Sumter by the Confederates? What of President Lincoln's call for troops? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 167 CHAPTER XXIX. 1861. 1. The seat of the Confederate Government was trans- ferred, on the 21st of May, 1861, from Montgomery, Ala- bama, to Richmond, Virginia. The Confederate Congress, at its first meeting after its removal, called for volunteers, and passed an Act enlisting soldiers for the war. The South made an enthusiastic response to this call, Mississippi con- tributing the flower of her youth and manhood to swell the list of the Southern army. The volunteer companies, which had been organizing in every portion of the State, were anxious for active service, and eagerly pressed their claims to be allowed to advance "to the front." 2. In November, 1861, Mississippi had in the service of the Confederacy twenty-two regiments and one battalion of infantry, one regiment and fourteen companies of cavalry, and eleven companies of artillery, amounting in the aggre- gate to about twenty-three thousand. When the number of " independent companies " is estimated, it will be seen that the whole number somewhat exceeded twenty-four thousand. Thirty companies which had enlisted "for the war," were at that time encamped in the State, the whole force exceed- ing thirty-five thousand. " This force," said Governor Pettus, in his annual message, " is larger than any State or nation of modern times has sent to war." 3. On Sunday, July 21st, the great battle of Manassas, or Bull Run, was fought, resulting in a decisive victory for the Confederate troops. Generals Beauregard and J. E. Johnson commanded the Southern forces, and General McDowell the Northern, though many prominent officers were engaged on both sides. It was in this battle that Gen- 168 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. eral Thomas J. Jackson received the famous appellation, "Stonewall," caused from the remark of General Bee, of Georgia, who was rallying his men to a desperate charge : "Look at General Jackson! He is standing like a stone wall! " 4. A large number of arms, standards, and prisoners were captured in this battle, the result of which was to establish the Confederacy more strongly than ever in public confi- dence. The Confederates lost two thousand men, the Fed- erals three thousand. Many Mississippi troops were engaged in this sanguinary battle, bearing themselves, while exposed to the deadliest fire of the enemy, with unflinching courage. 5. At the battle of Leesburg, Virginia, the gallant Colonel E. R. Burt, of Mississippi, fell, mortally wounded, while lead- ing his regiment to a desperate charge. On the 20th of November, 1861, Governor Pettus received telegrams from Governor Harris and General Pillow, of Tennessee, inform- ing him of a threatened attack on Columbus, Kentucky, and asking him for aid to assist in repelling the enemy. The request was at once responded to by Governor Pettus, re-enforcements of both men and arms being at once for- warded. 6. The general election in Mississippi was now at hand, and the administration of Governor Pettus was endorsed by his renomination for the office. His firm, strong rule and his evident regard for the interests of all the people made him very popular, and he was re-elected by a large majority. Mississippi elected seven members to the first Confederate Congress. They were J. W. Clapp, Reuben Davis, Israel Welsh, H. C. Chambers, O. R. Singleton, Ethelbert Barks- dale, and John J. McRae. 7. In his message of December 14, 1861, Governor Pettus advised the people against the accumulation of two crops of cotton, and the non-production of breadstuffs. The North had closed the markets of the South by her blockading HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ]69 squadrons, and the great agricultural staple of the country was lying useless on the lands where it was produced. To secure the State against the dangers of a possible famine, Governor Pettus recommended the planting of grains, fruits, and such other productions as could be relied on in a time of need. 8. Forced to rely upon themselves, the people of Missis- sippi, notably the women, children, and aged or decrepit men, put forth almost superhuman efforts to sustain them- selves and the gallant defenders who were fighting so nobly "at the front" for home and country. First, the luxuries of life were abandoned one by one, and the struggle for the bare necessities of existence began. Had not our generous soil responded so freely to the efforts that were made for its cultivation, a still darker page might have been added to the volume in which our woes are written. No Spartan mother ever buckled sword and shield upon her son with more will- ing heart than the Southern mothers of 1 861-5 sent forth their sons to victory or defeat. In this connection should also be mentioned the fidelity with which the negro slaves of the South served their absent masters during the dark days of the Civil war. Left, in many instances, with the entire control of large plantations, and with the care of help- less women and children devolving entirely upon them, they nobly discharged the trusts committed to their care, and for four long and dreary years stood like a black wall of defense around the families of those who "wore the grey." All honor to the memory of the slaves of the olden times ! 9. The Trustees of the University of Mississippi made their annual report in November of this year. This report showed that the spirit of patriotism had pervaded the entire institution, and to such an extent that nearly all the students had volunteered their services to the State. As early as January, 1861, when the prospect of hostilities was as yet remote, a military company, the "University Greys," had 170 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. been organized among the students, had tendered their services to, and been accepted by, the Governor of Mis- sissippi. The regular exercises of the University, however, were carried on, uninterrupted by the drill, which took place during the intermission of class hours. During that exciting period, when stirring events followed each other in rapid succession, when the martial blood of the South was stirred to fever heat, the lectures and recitations proceeded, but their spirit was gone, and study, for the time, lost its power. 10. "One student after another," says the chronicler of the report of those exciting days, " dropped away and enrolled himself among those about to march from his own neighborhood. In their turn, the 'University Greys' became entitled to marching orders, and on the first day of May, 1861, took up their line of march for Virginia, bearing a conspicuous part in the battle of Manassas, where they cov- ered themselves witli immortal glory. The graduating class requested that their time of examination be anticipated by several months. The loss of these two bodies of young men reduced their number to a mere handful, and these, within the next few days, followed their companions. The dissolution of the University was, therefore, rather spon- taneous. The Faculty, after the summer vacation was over, resumed operations, but only four students presented them- selves. The Faculty, therefore, resigned." 11. In the conclusion of this report the Board of Trustees stated that as soon as possible they wished to reorganize, but this wish was destined to remain unfulfilled as long as the war lasted. The names of this Board of Trustees are nearly all historical, as the following list will show: Ex-Governor John J. McRae, Jacob Thompson, G. H. Long, J. W. Clapp, T. E. B. Pegues, James M. Howry, John J. Pettus, Wm. L. Sharkey, C. P. Smith, A. M. Clayton, and James Brain. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 171 QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXIX. Where was the seat of the Confederate Government transferred from Montgomery? Call for volunteers ? Response? Give an esti- mate of the forces sent to the field by Mississippi in 1861. When was the first battle of Manassas fought? Commanders of the Southern forces? Incident which gave " Stonewall Jackson " his title? What were captured in this battle? Mississippi troops? Battle of Leesburg, Virginia? Death of Colonel Burt? General elections in Mississippi? Re-election of Governor Pettus? Confederate Congressmen from Mississippi? How were the markets of the South closed against the world ? What was recommended as a security against possible famine in Mississippi ? When forced to rely upon themselves, what efforts did the people of the State put forth ? What were abandoned one by one ? What do we owe to our generous soil? Fidelity of the negro slaves? Should it not be always remembered? Annual report of the University of Mississippi ? The " University Greys? " In what battle were they conspicuous for gallantry? The graduating class of 1861 ? Temporary suspension of University exercises ? Board of Trustees of that period? 172 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXX. 1862. 1. The close of 1861 found the Confederacy strong in faith and hope, confident of ultimate victory. General George B. McClellan, a very able military leader, was placed in command of the Northern army of the Potomac after the battle of Manassas, and, with his army of one hundred and fifty thousand men, stood fronting the Confed- erates, one hundred thousand strong. 2. The troops of no State exhibited a loftier patriotism or displayed more splendid gallantry on the field than did those of Mississippi. All occupations and professions, all grades of society laid aside private interests for the public welfare, and mustering from every city, hamlet and community, offered their lives and property in defense of their country's rights. Even the negroes, though conscious that the tri- umph of the South meant perpetual bondage to them, showed a devotion to the interests of their masters that stands unparalled in the history of races. 3. In the autumn of 1861, Van Dorn, who, after his trans- fer to the West, was promoted to the rank of Brigadier- General, was ordered to report to General Beauregard, in Virginia. In February, 1862, he was ordered to take com- mand of the trans-Mississippi department, and on the 7th and 8th of March following fought the battle of Pea Ridge, in which the enemy was driven from the field of battle, with a loss in killed and wounded of over two thousand, and two hundred prisoners. Soon after the battle of Pea Ridge, General Beauregard, who at this time was concentrating his forces at Corinth, Mississippi, called for the assistance of General Van Dorn, who was then transferred to Mississippi, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 178 where he encountered and defeated General Pope, of the Federal Army. Ex-Senator L. Q. C. Lamar, who had resigned his seat in Congress to take his place in the Secession Convention of Mississippi, entered the Confederate service as Lieuten- ant-Colonel of the Nineteenth Regiment of Mississippi Volunteers, and was soon promoted to be its Colonel. 4. The first great reverses to the Confederate side during the war were the capture of Forts Henry and Donelson, on the Tennessee river, by the Federals, under General U. S. Grant, who was then just coming into notice as a great military leader. Fort Henry was taken on the 6th of February, 1862, and on the 13th of the same month, the combined land and river forces of the enemy appeared before Fort Donelson, which was commanded by Brigadier- General John B. Floyd, formerly Secretary of War under President Buchanan. He was assisted by Generals Pillow and Buckner, of the Confederate service. The brave cav- alryman, General Bedford Forrest, whose command was composed chiefly of Tennesseeans and Mississippians, was also engaged in this battle. There were present six regiments of Mississippi troops, who fought with characteristic valor. 5. The first day's battle resulted favorably to the Confed- erates, the enemy being repeatedly repulsed with heavy loss. The entire Confederate force amounted to only eighteen thousand, and as the resources of the enemy were unlimited, the fort, after a stubborn resistance of repeated attacks by land and water, was compelled to surrender. The fort was surrendered on the 15th of February, 1862, after heavy losses on both sides. General N. B. Forrest refused to be included in the surrender, but cut his way out at the head of his command and joined General John- ston at Nashville. 6. General Johnston evacuated Nashville in February, 1862, and made a junction with Beauregard at Corinth, a 174 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. place on the line of the Memphis & Charleston Railroad, in the north-eastern portion of Mississippi. Their combined forces amounted to about fifty thousand men. It became evident, after the battle of Fort Donelson, that Grant was feeling for the heart of the Confederacy. On the ioth of March, 1862, with a formidable fleet of gun- boats, accompanied by transports carrying troops, he began the ascent of the Tennessee and reached Pittsburg Landing, in the vicinity of Corinth, on the 18th of the same month. On the 6th of April, Johnston attacked Grant, hoping to accomplish his defeat before the arrival of Buell, who was known to be marching by rapid stages from Nashville with heavy re-enforcements. 7. The battle raged furiously throughout the entire day, Johnston and Beauregard driving the enemy to the shelter of his gunboats, capturing his encampment, and gaining possession of vast quantities of military stores, arms, ammu- nition, etc. Just at the moment when victory to the Con- federates seemed assured, General Albert Sidney Johnston was killed. This sad event, it is believed, changed entirely the issue of the battle of Shiloh, and, as some contend, decided adversely the fate of the Southern Confederacy. In the confusion incident to the death of the commanding general, and the assumption of his place by General Beaure- gard, the plan of battle was changed. Buell's re-enforcements arrived, and Grant had time to reorganize his scattered and defeated forces. Night closed the day which had witnessed the most terrific battle of the war, and the Southern forces rested upon their arms, confident of victory on the morrow. 8. The combined armies of Grant and Buell amounted to nearly eighty thousand men, nearly twice as many as the Confederates numbered. Early on the morning of the 7th, the battle was resumed, the enemy advancing to the attack in such overwhelming numbers that the Confederates, after fighting with their usual bravery, were compelled to retreat. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 176 9. The Confederate loss in this battle amounted to seven- teen hundred and twenty-eight killed, and eight thousand wounded ; the killed, wounded and missing of Grant's army numbering about eleven thousand two hundred. Many Mississippi troops were engaged in this battle. They fought as brave men always fight in defense of their own soil, and their losses in dead and wounded were appalling. Many promotions were made after this battle for acts of personal bravery. General Beauregard's force amounted to less than fifty thousand men, and without risking a battle he concluded to evacuate Corinth, retreating to Tupelo on the 29th of May. On the 30th, Corinth was invested by the Federals, under Halleck, Pope, and Sherman. General Beauregard soon afterward resigned his command, which was transferred to General Bragg. 10. On the 1 2th of May, Natchez, which had been occu- pied by a small (Confederate force, surrendered to the Federals, who, however, soon abandoned it. General Van Dorn, who, previous to the battle of Shiloh, had been in command of the Army of the West, was in May, 1862, transferred to Mississippi and assigned to the defense of Vicksburg. Soon after, two fleets of Federal gunboats, one from above and one from below, met at Vicksburg, which had been strongly fortified, and commenced bombarding the town. This was kept up for some time, but without definite results. The place was defended by quite a large force of Confederate troops. On the 4th of July, 1862, the Federal officers commanding the fleets made a concerted attack upon the fortifications, bombarding them heavily for about two hours. The attack was repulsed without serious loss to either side. 1 1 . About this time the ram ' ' Arkansas, ' ' under command of Captain I. N. Brown, produced great consternation in the Federal fleet above Vicksburg. Entering the Mississippi from the Yazoo, Captain Brown proceeded into the midst of 176 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. the enemy's fleet and succeeded in dispersing it, disabling one of the largest vessels and striking terror to the hearts of the crews of the remainder. Captain Brown had for- merly belonged to the United States navy, and his great knowledge of nautical affairs, together with his skill and bravery as a commander, enabled him to render efficient service to the Confederate Government. On July 22, 1862, the Federals abandoned the siege of Vicksburg entirely. 12. Early in September, 1862, General Price, with a large force of Confederate troops, occupied Iuka. On the 19th of September, the Federal forces, under Generals Rosecrans and Ord, advanced to capture the town, and a severe and bloody fight ensued. Both sides lost heavily in killed and wounded. During the following night the Confederates evacuated the town. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXX. How did the close of the year 1861 find the Southern Confederacy? Who was placed in command of the Northern army on the Potomac? Gallantry and patriotism of Mississippi troops ? Of all ranks of the people? General Van Dorn ? Battle of Pea Ridge? Colonel Lamar? First great reverses to the Confederate army? Who was just coming into notice as a great military leader? When was Fort Henry taken? Tell of the capture of Fort Donelson. Difference in numbers of the opposing forces? Action of General Forrest and his men ? What of the union of the forces of Johnston and Beauregard ? Number when combined? Grant's aim after the battle of Fort Donelson? When did he reach Pittsburg Landing? Johnston's attack on Grant? Battle of Shiloh? Death of Albert Sidney Johnston? Change of com- manders and consequent change of action ? Arrival of Buell? What were the combined numbers of Grant and Buell ? Their advance to the attack and retreat of Confederate forces? Confederate losses in this battle? Gallantry of Mississippi troops ? Losses and promotions ? Evacuation of Corinth by General Beauregard and its investment by Federals? Resignation of Beauregard? Surrender of Natchez to the Federals? Who was assigned to the defense of Vicksburg? Bombard- ment of Vicksburg by the Federals? Their repulse? What of the ram " Arkansas" and its commander? Battle of Iuka? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT 177 CHAPTER XXXI. i. Soon after taking command of the army in Mississippi, General Bragg left Tupelo and advanced to Chattanooga, Tennessee. General Rosecrans had command of the Fed- eral forces in North Mississippi and West Tennessee, and Generals Van Dorn and Price of the Confederates. After its occupation by Rosecrans, Corinth had been very strongly fortified, and was one of the main positions of the enemy in that section of the country. The importance of capturing this stronghold was apparent, and on the 3d of October, 1862, the combined forces of Van Dorn and Price attacked Corinth, hoping to surprise and capture it before the Federal commander could be re-enforced from other points. They were repulsed with great loss, two thousand men, in killed and wounded, being left in the hands of the enemy. 2. Van Dorn retreated to Ripley, and there made a stand against the enemy. On the 15th of December he attacked Holly Springs with a force of two thousand men, capturing the garrison and destroying Grant's supply depot, contain- ing three months' stores for sixty thousand men. Grant's preparations for a move against Vicksburg from this point were checked by this bold stroke ; he was forced to abandon the campaign and make a hasty retreat. Van Dorn's reputation as a brilliant cavalry leader, which had suffered somewhat by his unsuccessful attack upon Corinth, was re-established by his victory at Holly Springs and his sub- sequent operations against the enemy. 3. The suffering this year, occasioned by the war, was not confined to the soldiers in the field. When the Legisla- ture of Mississippi met in December, 1862, Governor Pettus called attention to the claims which the families of soldiers JO 178 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. held upon the State. Some of them, owing to a severe drought the past season, which had extended over a large portion of the State, were in need of the necessaries of life, and he recommended that the most liberal provisions be made by the Legislature for their relief. The most pressing want of the people at that time was a supply of salt, the rigorous blockade of the North having stopped its importa- tion into the State from the usual sources. The Governor sent agents to Virginia, Alabama, and Louisiana, hoping, if possible, to secure a supply of salt for the people of Missis- sippi, either by purchase or mining. In one instance only, that of the agent sent to New Iberia, Louisiana, did this mis- sion prove a success. 4. So great was the scarcity of salt in Mississippi at this period that, in some instances, people were driven to the necessity of digging up the dirt floors of their smoke-houses and extracting therefrom the salt which had accumulated for years from the drippings of meat during the process of its transformation into bacon. Coffee, after the first year of the war, was an unknown article in Mississippi, and many and amusing were the devices which were practiced by care- ful housewives in providing a substitute for the gentle stim- ulant. Wheat, oats, rye, Indian corn, sweet and Irish potatoes, all dried thoroughly and parched after the manner of coffee, first served their day ; while later, okra, burnt molasses and other articles seemingly as incongruous, were cheerfully used by rich and poor alike. No sacrifice that could be made for the beloved " Confederacy " was too great for the women of Mississippi. The clothing [worn by themselves and families at home, as well as that of the soldiers in the army, was spun and woven from the raw cot- ton raised on the farm, and while no factory smoke ascended from the Southern plains to compete with the manufacturing interests of the world, from many an humble cot and many a lordly mansion was heard the whir of the spinning-wheel HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 179 and the clatter of the shuttle, as the garments of grey were lovingly fashioned. 5. A considerable quantity of salt, stored by the State government at Vicksburg, was distributed to the destitute families of soldiers, and transportation furnished for this and other necessary supplies. That venerable statesman, George Poindexter, was a member of the Legislature which adopted these patriotic measures. A State armory was in operation at Brandon at this time, which, with the limited means then in our possession for constructing and repairing arms, was rendering the State efficient service. 6. Mississippi had, at this period, forty-six regiments of infantry in the Confederate service, besides the cavalry and artillery and the unattached battalions and companies which were organized by, and reported directly to, the Confederate authorities at Richmond, leaving no record of their existence or strength with the State government. During the fall and winter of 1862, large quantities of cotton were burned in Mississippi, by order of the military authorities of the Con- federacy, to prevent its falling into the hands of the enemy. On the 1st of January, 1863, President Lincoln issued his celebrated "Emancipation Proclamation," liberating all the slaves in the Southern States, though it had no practical effect whatever for the time, the negroes remaining content- edly with their masters until after the surrender at Appo- mattox. Many feared, when this proclamation was issued, that the horrors of insurrection might be added to the already existing troubles, but in no instance was this so, and no por- tion of the population of Mississippi was more peaceable and law-abiding than the negroes, who formed such a large majority of the inhabitants of the State. 7. On the 24th of January, 1863, a fleet bearing the com- bined forces of Grant and Sherman appeared before Vicks- burg. In December previous, Sherman had tried to reach the city by the line of the Yazoo, "River of Death," but 180 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. had failed disastrously. General Pemberton was at this time in command of the department of Mississippi, Van Dorn having been transferred with his cavalry to Tennessee. Grant's first attempt to take Vicksburg was by means of a canal cut across the peninsula opposite to Vicksburg, hoping by this means to get a channel for his vessels to pass the city. This attempt was foiled by the nature of the soil, the channel refilling with dirt and sand as fast as it was dugout. Early in April work on the canal was stopped, and a new plan adopted. On the night of the 16th of April a fleet of Federal gunboats succeeded in passing the Confederate bat- teries, and united with the land forces thirty miles below the city. In the passage of the Confederate batteries, several of the enemy's vessels were sunk or destroyed. 8. On the 29th of April the enemy's fleet, under Admiral Porter, made an attack upon Grand Gulf, but, finding the place too strong for them, retired. The fleet, with transports containing troops, succeeded, however, in passing the Confed- erate batteries, Grant landing his army on the Louisiana side and ferrying them across to the Mississippi at a point just below the mouth of Bayou Pierre. "^ As fast as they were landed they were moved out toward Port Gibson. On the 1st of May their advance was checked at Bayou Pierre by General Bowen, a Confederate commander, whose force of little more than five thousand men engaged about twenty thousand of the enemy. 9. Although the Confederates fought gallantly, the superior numbers of the enemy told against them, and they were compelled to retire to Grand Gulf, Port Gibson falling into the hands of the enemy, who took possession on the 2d of May. Grand Gulf was evacuated by the Confederates on the same day, General Bowen marching to Hankinson's Ferry, on the Big Black, where he was joined by Loring's division, sent from Jackson by General Pemberton, whose headquarters were at Edward's Depot. Grant now com- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 181 menced his march through the country toward Vicksburg, his army having been re-enforced by the forces under Sher- man. For several days the Federals were occupied in getting in position on the Vicksburg & Jackson Railroad, so as to strike Vicksburg from the rear. On the 12th, the Fifteenth and Seventeenth corps of Sherman's command, while march- ing on Jackson, encountered a single brigade of Confed- erates, under General Gregg, at Raymond, a small town in Mississippi near the capital. After a gallant resistance, the Confederates were forced to retreat. 10. On the 13th of May, General Joseph E. Johnston arrived at Jackson and assumed command. The ertemy by this time was moving rapidly upon Jackson, having cut off communication between that place and Pemberton's army. General Johnston evacuated Jackson on the 14th, having no adequate force for its protection. The archives and public prop- erty of the State were removed from Jackson to Enterprise, where the seat of government was temporarily established. 11. Jackson was occupied May 14th by Sherman's and McPherson's corps. Their first act was to destroy the peni- tentiary building, which the State had erected at great cost, and which, at the time of its destruction, was yielding a handsome revenue, the net profit to the State for the last year of its existence being sixty-five thousand dollars. The State armory had been removed to Meridian previous to the evacuation of Jackson, temporary buildings having been erected for the reception of the machinery and ordnance stores on hand. The State institutions for the deaf and dumb and for the blind were broken up. 12. While these events were transpiring in the country around Vicksburg and Jackson, Mississippi was traversed from north to south by a force of Federal cavalry under the infamous Colonel Grierson. The chief object of this raid seemed to be the pillage of the defenseless homes of women and children. Marauding parties from the main command 182 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. overran the greater portion of the State, destroying public and private property to an incredible extent. It was Sher- man's " March to the Sea " enacted on a smaller scale. As the cavalry force of this department under General Van Dorn had been ordered, early in the year, to Tennessee to re-enforce General Bragg, no adequate resistance could be offered these ruthless invaders. 13. On the 16th, while Johnston and Pemberton were endeavoring to unite their forces, they were attacked by Grant and the battle of Baker's creek fought. This was considered by Grant to be the hardest-fought battle of tht entire campaign. Eighteen Confederate guns and over two thousand men were captured by the Federals. The field was lost, the Confederates retreating across Baker's creek, guarded by Loring's division, to where General Bowen was stationed on the Big Black river. Loring then joined J. E. Johnston. The battle was renewed the next day at Big Black river, with no better success to the Confederates, who lost heavily in artillery and men. The way now being open to Vicksburg, Grant appeared before that city on the 18th of May, and the " Great Siege," which was to make Vicksburg famous in the annals of nations, was begun. 14. Pemberton had retreated into the entrenchments at Vicksburg, and dispatched to General Johnston, "I have determined to hold the city as long as possible. I still think it the most important point in the Confederacy." On the 23d of May, the Federals laid siege to Port Hudson, situated on the Mississippi river, not far above Baton Rouge, Louisi- ana. It was defended by a garrison of about six thousand men commanded by General Gardner. 15. The siege of Vicksburg presents to the reader one of the most heroic pages of any age or time. The city is built on hills and presented a fair mark for the enemy's artillery. To the westward ran the great river discovered by De Soto, now covered with the gunboats of a haughty enemy. To HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 183 protect themselves from the flying shot and shell, the heroic inhabitants who disdained to leave their city were forced to dig caves in the sides of the hills, carrying on there the ordinary duties of life. Not only the garrison, but the inhabitants of Vicksburg, sustained the trials of the siege with the most enduring fortitude. No murmur of complaint was heard from the heroic little band of soldiers enclosed within the hot and stifling entrenchments, living on less than half rations, in danger every minute of the day or night from the explosions of the enemy's shot and shell. Yet, amidst all these dangers, they held out bravely against Grant's force of sixty-thousand until starvation or sur- render were their only alternatives. 16. Vicksburg was surrendered on the 4th of July, 1863, and the " Great Siege " was over. The causes which led to a surrender are given by General Pemberton, as follows: "It must be remembered that, for forty-seven days and nights, those heroic men had been exposed to burning suns, drenching rains, damp fogs and heavy dews, and that, dur- ing all this period, they never had, by day or night, the slightest relief. The extent of our works required every available man in the trenches, and even then they were in many places insufficiently defended. It was not in my power to relieve any portion of the line for a single hour. Confined to the narrow limits of trenches, with their limbs cramped and swollen, v/ithout exercise, constantly exposed to a murderous storm of shot and shell, is it strange that the men grew weak and attenuated ? * They held the place against an enemy five times their number, admirably clothed and fed, and abundantly supplied with all the appli- ances of war. Whenever the foe attempted an assault they drove him back discomfited, covering the ground with his killed and wounded, and had already torn from his grasp five stands of colors, as trophies of their prowess, none of which were allowed to fall again into his hands." 181 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 17. The garrison at Port Hudson held out bravely until the fall of Vicksburg rendered further resistance useless. The Mississippi river was now in undisputed possession of the enemy. The fall of Vicksburg was a death-blow to the hopes of the people of Mississippi. From that day they considered it as only a question of time when the entire Confederacy would succumb to the superior strength of the Union forces. About this time, also, the disastrous results of the battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, threw a gloom over the entire South. This battle began on the 1st of July, 1863, and continued for more than three days. General Lee, who had won so many glorious victories in Virginia, thought to strike a decisive blow by marching his army into the heart of the enemy's country. General Meade, who had lately been placed in command of the Union forces, met him at Gettysburg. The Confederates, though successful at first, were at last defeated, after fighting with their usual valor. Pickett's last charge up the heights of Gettysburg will in future be spoken of in the same connection with the last stand made by Leonidas and his deathless Three Hun- dred. After the battle of Gettysburg, General Lee moved his army into Virginia and took position on the south side of the Rapidan river. The Union army followed up to the north side of the river, but no engagement followed. Noth- ing of importance took place between the two armies during the remainder of the year. 18. It was in this battle that the gallant General William Barksdale fell mortally wounded,- in the forefront of the battle and while leading his brave Mississippians to a des- perate charge. As no family in the State has a more illus- trious record than the one of which he was a member, it is well to give a brief outline-sketch of the valor and patriot- ism with which they served their country. William Barksdale, a farmer of Rutherford county, Ten- nessee, who came in his early manhood from Virginia, had HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 185 four sons, born in the order named : Harrison, Fountain, William, and Ethelbert. Their parents dying before any of them came to majority, they all settled in Mississippi in early life. The second son, Fountain, devoted himself exclusively to private pursuits, and as a Christian gentle- man and enterprising, public-spirited citizen, had no supe- rior in the State. Harrison Barksdale, the eldest, began life as a planter in Yazoo county. He was a member of the Legislature for several terms prior to the war. When the war began he enlisted as a private, but was promoted to the office of First Lieutenant of his company and was serving in that position when on the march from Corinth, in 1862, he contracted the disease from which he died in camp at Tupelo, Mississippi. His two sons, Lycurgus and Foun- tain, also gave up their young lives as an offering upon their country's bloody altars. The first died from sickness in camp, the other was shot through the heart at the battle of the Wilderness. 19. William Barksdale was a lawyer and planter at the outbreak of the war. He served as captain during the Mexican war, and when Mississippi passed her Ordinance of Secession he was serving his third term in her legislative halls. He resigned his seat to accept the commission of Quartermaster-General of the State troops, but soon after- ward resigned and united with the Thirteenth Mississippi regiment, of which he became colonel. He led that famous regiment of fighters in all the battles in which it participated in Northern Virginia and Maryland. On the death of Gen- eral Richard Griffith, he was made a Brigadier-General. A distinguished part of General Barksdale's career was his service as commander of the post of Fredericksburg, Vir- ginia, and the pictorial journals of the day teemed with illustrations of the achievements of "Barksdale and his Mississippians," in holding a desperate position for such a long period against heavy odds. As has been stated, he fell, 186 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. mortally wounded, at the battle of Gettysburg, and the spot where "Barksdale fell," amidst the thickest of the fray, is of national fame. President Davis paid a tribute to the gallantry of Barksdale and his men in a telegram communi- cating the sad news of his death: "He fell a hero at the head of a brigade of heroes." His trusty sword was taken from his body by the Federals, who occupied the ground on which he fell, and was deposited in the War Department at Washington. It was subsequently recovered and deposited in the Mississippi State Library for safe-keeping, by order of the Legislature. 20. Ethelbert Barksdale, the remaining member of this illustrious family, was elected a member of the Confederate Congress, and served in that body from the establishment to the fall of the Southern Confederacy. He was known to possess, to a larger degree than any other member of that body, the friendship and confidence of President Davis. It was on his motion that the bill to repeal what was known as the "Twenty-Negro" clause of the Exemption Act was passed. At the instance of General Lee and President Davis he introduced the famous bill authorizing the employ- ment of negro troops in the Confederate army, conditioned upon the consent of the owner and the sanction of the State in which they lived. This bill was signed by President Davis, and enlistments of negro troops were in] progress when the war closed. The experiment might have been successful at an earlier date. After the Reconstruction Period,' Major Barksdale served as presidential elector on the Democratic ticket in 1876, and also as a member of the Forty-eighth and Forty-ninth Congresses. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXI. Movements of Bragg and Rosecrans in Mississippi and Tennessee? Attack on Corinth by Van Dorn and Price? Defeat and loss? Dash- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 187 ing attack of Van Dorn upon Holly Springs? How did it affect Grant's advance upon Vicksburg? Sufferings occasioned by the war? Claims of the soldiers' families? The most pressing want of a blockaded people? Measures taken to procure this necessity of life? Scarcity of coffee ? Substitutes for the same ? Sacrifices made by the women of the State? " Homespun " clothing? Measures taken by the Legisla- ture to relieve the destitute? Mississippi forces in the field ? Burning of cotton by Confederate authorities? Issuing of the " Emancipation Proclamation?" Did it have any visible effect upon the masses of the negroes? When did Grant and Sherman appear before Vicksburg? How had Sherman previously tried to reach the city ? Grant's first attempt to capture it ? Its failure ? When did the Federal forces above and below the city unite? Attack upon Grand Gulf? Passage of the batteries and landing of Grant's army on the Louisiana side? How was their advance checked for a time? Gallant fight of Bowen and his Confederates? When did Port Gibson fall? Grand Gulf? Junc- tion of Bowen and Loring on the Big Black? Advance of Grant's army on Vicksburg? Re-enforced by Sherman ? When did General Joseph E. Johnston arrive at Jackson, Mississippi ? Advance of the enemy upon that place? Its evacuation? Removal of the archives and public property ? When did the Federals enter the capital of the State ? Their first act of vandalism ? Breaking up of institutes for deaf mutes and for the blind? Grierson's raid through Mississippi? When was the battle of Baker's creek fought? Grant's estimate of this battle? Confederate retreat and loss? Where was the battle renewed the next day, and with what success ? When did the " Great Siege " of Vicksburg begin ? Situation of Pemberton and his forces? His dispatch to General Johnston? Siege and defense of Port Hudson? Details of the siege of Vicksburg ? Fortitude of the heroic defenders and people of the city? What finally were the only alternatives? When did Vicksburg surrender ? Give the causes of same in General Pemberton's own language. Fall of Port Hudson? Who now held undisputed possession of the Mississippi river? Effect of the fall of Vicksburg on the people of the State? What great battle began in Pennsylvania on the ist of July, 1863? Commanders on the Con- federate and Union sides? Pickett's last charge up the heights? Lee's movements after his defeat at Gettysburg ? Movements of the enemy? Fall of General William Barksdale? Sketch of his family? Fountain Barksdale? Harrison? His two sons? Outline-sketch of the heroic life and death of General Barksdale ? In what capacity has Major Ethelbert Barksdale served his State ? 188 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXXII. 1863. 1. After the surrender of Vicksburg, General Johnston fell back to Jackson, his army reaching that place on the 7th of July, 1863. He was followed by a portion of the Federal army under Sherman, who laid siege to the capital, directing a heavy bombardment against the main portion of the city. Although Jackson was poorly fortified and unprepared for the attack, the firing was returned in a spirited manner, and assaulting parties were frequently repulsed. On the 16th of July, General Johnston evacuated the city, the Federals following him as far as Brandon, but no further. 2. The general elections in Mississippi were held in the autumn of 1863. There were three candidates for the Governor's office, Generals Charles Clarke, A. M. West, and Reuben Davis. General Clarke was elected, receiving a large majority of the popular vote. He was of German extraction, and was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 181 1. He was educated in Kentucky, and removed to Mississippi for the purpose of engaging in school-teaching. Having studied law, he was admitted to the bar when quite young, com- mencing his professional career in Fayette, Jefferson county. He was frequently chosen to represent Jefferson and Bolivar counties in the Legislature, where he served with distin- guished ability and fidelity. During the war with Mexico, he became, by the resigna- tion of Reuben Davis, Colonel of the Second Mississippi Regiment, where he won the respect and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. His regiment was com- posed of some of the best material the State afforded, but HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 189 much to their regret they reached the scene of action too late to be of material service. 3. At the beginning of hostilities, soon after the secession of Mississippi, Colonel Clarke received the commission of Brigadier-General, and was afterward promoted to the rank of Major-General . l!e served for several months in Virginia, and was then ordered to report to General Albert Sidney Johnston, in Kentucky. At Shiloh he commanded the first division of General Polk's corps. In a charge against Logan's division, he was desperately wounded, after win- ning the admiration of the whole army. 4. At Baton Rouge, General Clarke again commanded a division under General Breckinridge, and, while driving the enemy before him, was again wounded, having his right thigh horribly fractured. At his own request he was left on the field, and was subsequently sent to New Orleans, where he received the best medical attention. His life was saved, but he was forever unfitted for service on the field. General Clarke was exchanged in 1863, not long before his almost unanimous election to the office of Governor. He served the State with great ability, his military skill and judgment averting from the State many of the evils of war. 5. Owing to the exposed condition of the capital, the Legislature met in November, 1863, in the city of Columbus, the seat of government being temporarily removed from Macon for that purpose. Governor Clarke was inaugurated on the 16th of November, 1863. He was escorted to the hall, where the two houses of the Legislature had met, by a detachment of Confederate troops commanded by Colonel W. S. Barry. After the oath of office was administered, Governor Clarke delivered his inaugural address, in which occurs the following passage : " We have not lightly entered upon the path we are pursuing, and, conscious of the rectitude of our intentions and the justice of our cause, we have neither motive nor desire to retrace our steps. There may be 190 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. those who delude themselves with visions of a reconstructed Union and a restored Constitution. If such there be, let them awake from their dreaming ! Between the South and the North there is a great gulf fixed. It is a gulf crimsoned with the blood of our sons and brothers, filled with the bitter hatred of our enemies and the memories of our wrongs. It can be passed only with dishonor, and in reconstruction we shall reach the climax of infamy ! Humbly submit yourselves to our hated foes and they will offer you a reconstructed Constitution providing for the confiscation of your property, the immediate emanci- pation of your slaves, and the elevation of the black race to a position of equality, aye, of superiority, that will make them your masters and rulers. Rather than base submission, ruin, and dishonor, let the last of our young men die upon the field of battle, and when none are left to wield a blade or uphold our banner, then let our old men, our women, and our children, like the remnant of the heroic Pascagoulas, when their braves were slain, join hands together, march into the sea, and perish beneath its waters." 6. At this session of the Legislature, Hon. J. W. C. Wat- son was elected Confederate States Senator to succeed Hon. James Phelan, whose term of office had expired. Hon. J. A. Orr, W. D. Holder, H. C. Chambers, O. R. Singleton, E. Barksdale, and J. T. Laniken were elected to the Con- federate Congress from the State at large. 7. The militia laws of the State had, up to this time, proved very defective, though both the cavalry and infantry of this branch of the service had rendered important aid to the State, the former in giving security to and guarding the property of the citizens from marauding bands of the enemy, the latter in guarding important depots of public supplies along the line of the different railroads, relieving the Confederate troops of that duty. A large portion of the press and people were opposed to the enforcement of the militia law, believing in the ability of the Confederate troops to guard the State from invasion ; but after the occupation of the capital and other places in the State, which several thousand additional troops could have prevented, the subject of a thorough reorganization of the militia was considered. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 191 8. The last message of Governor Pettus recommended the extension of the militia law so as to include and make subject to military duty every free white male person, either a citizen or a temporary resident, between the ages of sixteen and sixty "ears, and Governor Clarke, immediately STEPHEN D. LEE. after assuming the duties of his office, began making prep- arations for a stringent and effective enforcement of the militia law. At the close of 1863, there were three regi- ments, three battalions, and ten unattached companies of State troops in the field, A regiment of unattached com- panies was being organized by Brigadier-General J. Z. George. 9. At this stage of the war, when the Confederate arms were meeting with reverses on every side, much discontent was manifested in various quarters with the administration of President Davis. On the 23d of November, 1863, the 192 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Legislature of Mississippi adopted the following resolu- tion: "Resolved, That Jefferson Davis, President of the Confederate States of America, continues to possess our confidence in his ability to manage the helm of State, in his patriotism and devotion to the cause of Southern liberty and independence, and his integrity to the principles which severed our connection with the North, and which form the imperishable base of this revolution and Confederate Government ; notwithstanding the misfortunes of war have given over to the ravages of a ruthless foe some of the best and fairest portions of our devoted Mississippi ; notwithstanding our friends and brethren have been plundered of their property and driven from their homes, and our wives, mothers, sisters, and children have been subjected to the insults of a brutal soldiery, and deprived of those comforts and that independ- ence to which birth, education, and habit had accustomed them, and notwithstanding devoted Vicksburg and heroic Port Hudson suffered, endured, and passed from our possession, and Mississippi bleeds at every pore from the reverses of the year, we believe Mississippi's favored son was not wanting in purposes or cherished desire to keep the poisoned chalice from our lips and hearts, or failed to avail himself of the most effective means at his command to triumph over and repel the invaders." QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXII. Where did General Johnston fall back to after the surrender of Vicksburg? What Federal commander followed him? Condition of Jackson for purposes of defense? Its evacuation by Confederates? General elections in Mississippi in 1863? What three candidates for Governor? The successful one? Outline-sketch of his life? His war record? His desperate charge and dangerous wound at Shiloh? At Baton Rouge? His peculiar fitness as a " war Governor ? " Where did the Legislature meet in 1863? Inauguration of Governor Clarke? Give an extract from his inaugural address. Who succeeded Hon. James Phelan as Senator from Mississippi to the Confederate Con- gress? Members from the State at large? What of the defective militia laws? Why were so many of the press and people of the State opposed to the enforcement of these laws ? Last message of Governor Pettus? What action did Governor Clarke take in the matter imme- diately after assuming the office? Number of State troops in the field at the close of 1863? General George's regiment? Discontent with Davis' administration ? Resolutions of the Legislature of Mississippi concerning it ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 193 CHAPTER XXXIII. 1864. 1. The beginning of the year 1864 found the Confederacy struggling for existence, yet holding at bay the immense armies of the Federal Government. After the fall of Vicks- burg, General U. S. Grant was placed in command of the entire Federal forces, and planned two campaigns of great importance, one for himself against Richmond and one for General Sherman against Atlanta. The Confederate forces in Virginia were under command of General Robert E. Lee ; those in Georgia of General Joseph E. Johnston. 2. In May, Sherman attacked Johnston at Resaca, Georgia, but was repulsed with heavy loss, while the Confederate loss was slight. From May 14th to June 4th, a series of attacks and repulses ensued, culminating in the unsuccessful attempt of Sherman to dislodge Johnston from his moun- tainous position. On the 9th of June a desperate attack was made by the enemy upon our forces, and for more than three weeks the fighting was incessant. On the 14th of June, General Leonidas Polk, a consecrated Bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church, was killed, and General Loring appointed to succeed him. General Johnston finally con- centrated his forces "around Kennesaw Mountain in a strong position, from which all of Sherman's skill failed to dislodge him. 3. A flank movement of Sherman's, made by sending McPherson across the Chattahoochee river, finally caused Johnston to withdraw his army, which he did in splendid style. At this important stage of the warlike game, John- ston, whose masterly movements were the admiration of the world, was, by an order issued from Richmond by President 194 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Davis, superseded by General John B. Hood, a brave but notoriously rash officer. Hood at once commenced an aggres- sive movement contrary to Johnston's line of conduct, which had been to act entirely on the defensive. Two days after Hood assumed command he attacked Sherman, and after a bloody battle of five hours, was defeated with tremendous loss. On the 21st of July he again attacked Sherman, and another sanguinary battle, in which both sides claimed to be victorious, ensued. 4. On the 28th of July, Hood again attacked Sherman desperately, but unsuccessfully. August 5th, Hood defeated Schofield, who made an attack upon him. Sherman attacked and defeated Hardee at Jonesboro, which compelled Hood to evacuate Atlanta. Hood then projected his Tennessee cam- paign, hoping to force Sherman to abandon Georgia. On September 28, 1864, he began his famous retreat, hoping therer^y to induce Sherman to follow him. General French was sent to capture Altoona, where Sherman's supplies were located, but the place being too strongly situated, the attempt failed. Thomas was sent into Tennessee, and Sherman, after burning Atlanta to the ground, commenced his celebrated "march to the sea." 5. With the purpose of laying waste a country upon which the Confederates were relying for supplies, Sherman with an army of seventy-thousand Federals began his march through Georgia, reaching and taking Savannah, December 21, 1864, his vast army advancing in four columns and cover- ing in their foraging operations a strip of territory sixty miles in width. Desolation and dismay attended the march of the invader ; smoking ruins and homeless women and children were left in its rear. Sherman himself, it is said, boasted that " a crow could not subsist on the track " over which his army had passed. 6. On February 1, 1865, the invaders crossed into South Carolina and marched in the direction of Columbia. Here, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 196 as in Georgia, his advance was marked by smoking ruins and general destruction. He met with practically no resist- ance. General Hardee, the Confederate general at Charles- ton, saved the city by abandoning it as soon as Sherman reached the railroads leading into the city. This was done MAJOR-GENERAL E. C. WALTHALL. on February 18, 1865. Sherman reached the doomed city of Columbia, South Carolina, February 17, 1865. The day was spent in plundering the city, the night in burning it, and scenes of woe that beggared description ensued. After the destruction of Columbia, Sherman advanced into North Carolina to oppose the Confederates under General Joseph E. Johnston. 7. Lieutenant-General Stephen D. Lee, of Mississippi, also rendered effective service in this campaign, which included some of the bloodiest battles of the war. His forces included the famous cavalry command of General 196 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Bedford Forrest, a soldier by nature, and the idol of the cavalrymen of West Tennessee and Mississippi, of whom his command was largely composed. At the battle of Fort Donelson, Forrest refused to surrender when the white flag was hoisted by the general in command, but calling on his brave men to follow him, he was "out and away o'er bush and fen," the whole command being compelled to swim their horses a considerable distance before reaching dry land. 8. Major-General E. C. Walthall also co-operated with Hood in his famous retreat. When the shattered army, conscious that "some one had blundered," yet as loyal as the noble "six hundred" under similar circumstances, reached Tennessee, Walthall and Forrest, the " right and left arms of Hood," hovering around the rear of the broken columns, saved them from utter destruction. Hood himself credited Walthall and Forrest with saving his army from destruction. General E. C. Walthall is a native Mississip- pian, a distinguished lawyer, and, besides the services rendered during the war, has long represented his people in Congress. 9. Stephen D. Lee, a graduate of West Point, was one of the bravest and most skillful officers of the entire army. With a force of seven thousand men he attacked and defeated a Federal force of fifteen thousand under General A. J. Smith, who had left Memphis with re-enforcements for Mobile. The "retreat" terminated so disastrously for Hood that his losses in Tennessee alone are estimated to have been about ten thousand men, including killed and captured. At Franklin the Union army under General Schofield was compelled to retire, and Hood, with characteristic boldness, .continued to advance until with thirty-seven thousand men he had besieged Nashville, where Thomas, a native of Vir- ginia, but a Union general, lay awaiting him with fifty-five thousand. While Hood waited for promised re-enforcements, Thomas, taking the offensive movement, attacked him with HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 197 such force that the Confederates were compelled to retreat from their position, and but for Lee, Walthall, and Forrest, would have been utterly destroyed. Hood made a last stand at Tupelo, Mississippi, his brave soldiers depressed, but not despairing. 10. On the 4th of May, General Grant, whose watchword was "On to Richmond," had crossed the Rapidan. The HON. JAMES R. CHALMERS. Federal cause in Virginia was very much strengthened by the successes it met with in Georgia. Though Hood's defeat and Sherman's march to the sea operated terribly against the Confederate cause, our brave soldiers continued to " hope against hope." Their reputation in battle was such that Grant thought it necessary to oppose an army of one hundred and forty thousand men against Lee's sixty thou- sand. On the 1 2th of June, 1864, Grant crossed the Chicka- hominy and moved toward the James river. On the 15th, 198 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Lee's advance entered Petersburg, and on the 17th and 1 8th, Grant made an attack upon his intrenchments, with but little success, his forces being repulsed with heavy loss. After every effort to take the place by storm, a regular siege began ; Grant with a large force crossed to the north bank of the James, threatening Richmond from that quarter. The lines of the two commanders now faced each other, Grant watching eagerly for some opportunity to break his enemy's line, and Lee equally as wary in warding off attack. 11. By the fall of 1864, Mississippi was almost depleted of all articles of food and clothing not manufactured at home. In those sections of country tributary to points held by the enemy, a species of commerce called "blockade-running" was inaugurated, but it was of no benefit to the good citizens of the country, as articles obtained in this way were held at fabulous prices by speculators, and were beyond the reach of the majority of the people. This species of blockade- running is to be distinguished from that practiced on the Confederate coast, where light sailing vessels often evaded the vigilance of the Federal blockading squadron, and speed- ing off before the wind, were soon in communication with vessels from European ports, which were ready at any time to trade with the beleaguered Confederates. Running the blockade of the enemy's lines within the Confederacy was deprecated by the soldiers at the front, as it often involved the taking of the oath of allegiance to the United States Government. 12. In the depressed condition of affairs, Confederate money had depreciated in value to such an extent as to be almost worthless as a medium of exchange. Fifty dollars in Confederate money only equaled one of gold. A single pair of shoes brought from fifty to seventy-five dollars, and calico and other cotton goods prices equally extravagant. 13. On the 3d of February, 1865, commissioners from the Confederate Government met those from the United States, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 1QQ the latter including President Lincoln, and the former Vice- President Stephens, on board of a war-vessel in Hampton Roads, for the purpose of holding a peace conference, but as Mr. Lincoln would accept nothing from the Confederate Government but unconditional surrender, the conference terminated without effect. Hon. Jacob Thompson, who had engaged actively in the Confederate service from the begin- ning of the war, was, towards its close, sent by the Con- federate Government upon a mission to Canada, entrusted with a secret- service fund for the purpose of enlisting aid in behalf of our waning cause. Hon. C. C. Clay, of Ala- bama, was associated with Mr. Thompson in this mission, which was performed to the entire satisfaction of the Con- federate authorities. 14. On the 23d of February, 1865, General Joseph E. Johnston was reinstated over the shattered remnants of his old command. Grant's army in Virginia was still slowly and cautiously encircling Lee's heroic little army, getting nearer and nearer to Richmond, the capital of the fated Confederacy. On the 2d of April, 1865, it became neces- sary for the Confederate army to retire from Petersburg, and orders were given on the same day for the evacuation of Richmond. 15. Lee's army retreated to Appomattox Court House, and here, on the 9th of April, 1865, the memorable meeting between the two commanders, Lee and Grant, took place, and arrangements for the surrender of Lee's army were completed. The terms of the surrender are included in the correspondence which took place between the two com- manders on the same day. General Grant wrote to General Lee as follows: " In accordance with my letter to you of the 8th instant, I propose to receive the surrender of the army of Northern Virginia on the following terms, to-wit : Rolls of all the officers and men to be made in duplicate, one copy to be given an officer designated by me, the other to be 200 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. retained by such officers as you may designate. The officers to give their individual parole not to take arms against the government of the United States until properly exchanged, and each company or regimental commander to sign a like parole for the men of his command. The arms, artillery, and public property to be parked and stacked and turned over to the officers appointed by me to receive them. This will not embrace the side-arms of the officers nor their private horses or baggage. This done, the officers and men will be allowed to return to their homes, not to be disturbed by the United States authority so long as they observe their parole and the laws in force where they may reside." 16. To which General Lee replied: "I have received your letter of this date, containing the terms of the surren- der of the army of Northern Virginia, as proposed by you. As they are substantially the same as those expressed in your letter of the 8th instant, they are accepted. I will proceed to designate the proper officers to carry the stipula- tions into effect." At the time of his surrender, Lee's army amounted to only ten thousand men, while Grant's numbered nearly one hundred and fifty thousand. 17. Upon the evacuation of Richmond, President Davis and the Confederate Cabinet, of course, left the city, Mr. Davis remaining at Danville, Virginia, until after the surren- der of Lee's army, when he proceeded to North Carolina, where General Joseph E. Johnston was still waging an unequal warfare with Sherman. About this time the assas- sination of President Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth reached the South, where it was received with universal condemna- tion. An attempt to implicate some of the Southern leaders in the plot, which caused Lincoln his life, proved worse than useless. 18. On the 27th of April, 1865, General Joseph E. John- ston surrendered his army to General Sherman on substan- tially the same terms that had been accorded to Lee by HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 201 Grant. A few days afterward, Mr. Davis, whose object was to reach the West, where there were still unsurrendered Confederate troops, was captured by a party of Federal cavalry, sent by water to Fortress Monroe, and there incar- cerated as a prisoner of State. 19. Early in May, 1865, the " last Confederate surrender" was made, that of Lieutenant-General Richard Taylor, in command of the Department of Mississippi and Alabama. This virtually ended the Civil war. Thus ended one of the most lamentable contests in the history of the world — a contest that arrayed in strife brother against brother, and created a bloody chasm between the two sections of a country which had hitherto been the happiest and most prosperous on earth. The seeds of this great conflict were sown long before the men who fought each other were born. Slavery, the cause of the war, was abolished, greatly to the benefit of the people of the South. At the close of the war, the South was financially ruined. Indeed, the war was very costly to both sides, both in treasure and in blood. At its close, the North had a debt of nearly three billions of dollars hanging over it. The greatest loss suffered, how- ever, by the South, was in the number of her gallant sons who were slain in battle, or who died from wounds or disease. While the North had the world to recruit her armies from, the South was forced to send forth the flower of her manhood, the youth of sixteen summers and the old man of sixty. It is considered a low estimate to say that on both sides of the great Civil war, over one million of men were killed and wounded. More than one good lesson, however, has been learned by the student of the great struggle. The people of the North and South learned to know each other better, and to respect each other's opinions more after the smoke of battle had died away. The South has become more prosperous and 202 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. self-reliant through the enforced discipline of poverty and self-denial, and is now developing her many natural resources with great rapidity. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXIII. In what condition did the beginning of the year 1864 find the strug- gling Confederacy? Who was placed in command of the entire Fed- eral forces after the fall of Vicksburg? What two campaigns were planned by him? Commanders of Confederate forces in Virginia and Georgia? Battle of Resaca, Georgia? How did Sherman's attempt to dislodge Johnston result? Three weeks of fighting? Death of Bishop Polk? His successor? Where did Johnston finally entrench himself ? What finally caused the Confederate commander to withdraw his army from this position ? Removal of Johnston from command and appointment of Hood? Hood's plan of attack? The three battles that ensued? Hood's defeat of Schofield? How did Hood hope to force Sherman to abandon Georgia? Show how this plan failed? Sherman's " march to the sea? " Devastation attending it ? Burning of Columbia? How did Hardee save Charleston? Whither did Sherman march after the destruction of Columbia? Services rendered by General Stephen D. Lee in this campaign? General Bedford Forrest? Of whom was his command largely composed ? His action at Fort Donelson? General E. C. Walthall? To whom did Hood give the credit of saving his army on its memorable retreat from Tennessee? Sketch of General Stephen D. Lee? Losses of Hood's army in Tennessee? Battles of Franklin and Nashville? Hood's last stand ? How was the Federal cause strengthened in Virginia? Reputa- tion of Confederate soldiers in battle? Difference in numbers of the two armies? When did Grant cross the Chickahominy?' Lee's entrance into Petersburg? Grant's attack and repulse? Siege of Petersburg? Situation of the two armies? Situation in Mississippi by the fall of 1864? Blockade-running ? Why disapproved of by the Confederate soldiery ? Confederate money ? High price of necessary articles? When and where did commissioners from the Confederate Government meet Mr. Lincoln ? How did the conference end? Thomp- son and Clay? When was General Joseph E. Johnston reinstated? When did the Confederate authorities return from Petersburg? Lee's retreat to Appomattox? Meeting of Lee and Grant? Terms of the surrender? Lee's answer to Grant? Difference in the numbers of the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 203 two armies at the time of the surrender? Where did President Davis and the Confederate Cabinet go after Lee's surrender? Assassination of President Lincoln? Surrender of Johnston to Sherman? Capture of Mr. Davis? " Last Confederate surrender?" Character of the Civil war? Debt of the United States at the close of the war? Greatest loss of the South? Number of killed and wounded on both sides? Effect of the war on the people of the South ? 204 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXXIV. 1865. 1. The Legislature of Mississippi was in session when the news of the surrender of General Richard Taylor reached the city. It was rumored at the same time that a force of Federal cavalry, under General Osborne, was advancing upon Jackson, and that the Governor and members of the Legislature would be placed under immediate arrest. The Legislature, at the request of the Governor, hastily disposed of the business of the hour and adjourned, the members dis- persing in order to prevent the execution of the order of arrest. 2. The Federal troops entered the city May 22, 1865, took possession of all offices of public business, and finally, with slow and measured tread, entered the capital itself, demand- ing of the Governor the abdication of his office and the sur- render of the archives and State property. " I comply with your demand," said Governor Clarke, whose wounds, received at Shiloh, had rendered him incapable of standing erect, " only because I am forced to do so, and I protest in the name of freedom and justice against this act of lawless usur- pation on the part of the President of the United States." 3. He was immediately arrested and sent to a military prison at Fort Pulaski, there to await the pleasure of the United States authorities. His last official act was the appointment of Judges Sharkey, Wharton, and Yerger as~a commission to proceed at once to Washington for the purpose of securing, if possible, from President Johnson terms favor- able to the peace and welfare of the people of Mississippi. Judge Wharton, who had at one time served as a commis- sioner from Mississippi to urge secession on the part of the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 205 other Southern States, declined to act, and Colonel Jones S. Hamilton was appointed in his stead. 4. Not Mississippi alone, but all of the recent Confederate States, were placed under martial law and occupied by mili- tary forces of the United States Government. Provisional governors were appointed in each of the Southern States, with instructions for the assembling of conventions composed of persons loyal to the Government of the United States, whose duty it should be to alter and amend the Constitutions of the several States. 5. On the 13th of June, 1865, Judge W. L. Sharkey was appointed Provisional Governor of Mississippi. His well- known sympathies with the Union previous to the outbreak of hostilities between the sections, recommended him to the authorities at Washington, and he immediately entered upon the noble task of endeavoring to restore peace and harmony between his State and the Government of the United States. On the 14th of August, 1865, a convention assembled in Jackson, which declared void the ordinance of secession, and abolished slavery forever in the State. This convention passed an ordinance providing for a general and special elec- tion to be held on the 2d of October, 1865. At this election Hon. B. G. Humphreys received a majority of the votes cast for Governor, and was declared the constitutionally elected Governor of Mississippi for the ensuing term. 6. Hon. William L. Sharkey was elected United States Senator for the term commencing March 5, 1865, and Hon. James L. Alcorn for the long term, commencing March 5, 1865. Arthur E. Reynolds, Richard A. Pinson, James T. Harrison, A. M. West, and E. G. Peyton were the members- elect to Congress from the State at large, but neither Sena- tors nor Representatives from Mississippi were admitted to their seats, Congress having refused to endorse President Johnson's reconstruction policy before their admission to office. 206 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 7. Governor Humphreys was inaugurated on the 16th of October, 1865, the oath of office being administered by ex- Governor Sharkey. The sentiment of the people of the State in regard to their readmission may be learned from the following extract from the inaugural address : " The people of the State of Mississippi, acknowledging the decision of war, a tribunal from which there is no appeal, desire to return to the Union and renew their fidelity to the Constitu- tion of*the United States. It has been officially reported, from some quarters, that our people are insfncere and the spirit of revolt is rampant among us. But if an unflinching fidelity in war gives evidence of reliable fidelity in peace; if the unvarying professions that spring from private and public sources furnish any evidence of truth, it is sufficiently demonstrated that the people of the South, who, so long and against such terrible odds, maintained the mightiest conflict of modern ages, may be safely trusted when they profess more than willingness to return to their allegiance. The South, having ventured all on the arbitrament of the sword, has lost all save her honor, and now accepts the result in good faith. It is our duty to address ourselves to the promo- tion of peace and order, to the restoration of law, the faith of the Constitution, and the stability and prosperity of the Union ; to cultivate amicable relations with our sister States, and establish our agricultural and commercial prosperity upon more durable foundations, trusting that the lessons taught by the war will not be lost, either to the North or the South ; that free men once enlightened will not submit to wrong or injustice, that sectional aggression will meet with sectional resistance, and that the price of political perfidy is blood and carnage." 8. On the 1st of November, 1865, a memorial to President Johnson in behalf of Hon. Jefferson Davis, who was still con- fined in prison, was adopted by both houses of the Legisla- ture. The presence of an armed force, composed partly of HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 207 negroes, on the soil of our State, was a standing grievance to the people of Mississippi ; and in December, 1865, tne Legislature appointed a commission to visit Washington City, to act in conjunction with the Congressmen-elect from Mississippi, in representing to President Johnson the con- dition of affairs in the State caused by the presence of col- ored troops, and the fears entertained of insurrectionary movements among the negroes. This commission was urged to secure, if possible, the removal of colored troops from the State, and to procure arms for the defense of the State by the militia. The President finally consented to the removal of the troops from the State, and Mississippi was for a time relieved of this standing menace against the rights and liberties of her citizens. 9. The Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution of the United States conferred citizenship upon the lately emancipated slaves of the South. The Southern States, which had composed the late Confederacy, were unwilling, with the exception of Tennessee, to ratify these amendments, on the ground that the action of Congress was premature, the freedmen not being yet prepared for the responsible duties of citizenship. Upon the refusal of these States to ratify the proposed amendment, Congress declared them to be still in a state of rebellion. 10. In March, 1867, Congress passed the Military Recon- struction Law, dividing the late Confederate States, with the exception of Tennessee, into five military districts, render- ing the existing Civil Governments provisional only, and making them in all respects subject to the paramount authority of the government of the United States. Missis- sippi again became subject to military rule, being placed, with Arkansas, in the Fourth Military District, General E. O. C. Ord, Division Commander. General Ord entered upon the duties of his office on the 26th of March, 1867. He issued an order on the 26th of 208 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. April, to the effect that elections to fill vacancies in State offices would not be held until a registration of votes had taken place ; and that prior to this registration all vacancies would be filled by appointment of the military commander. This order immediately precipitated a horde of hungry office- seekers upon the State, and the seeds of discord and race- strife were sown, which unfortunately sprang up and bore abundant fruit. The Reconstruction Act provided that in all elections to office under the provisional State govern- ments, all persons should be entitled to vote. ii. Governor Humphreys, for the time being, was per- mitted to retain his seat, though military governors were forced at the point of the bayonet upon many of the unre- constructed States. While the people of Mississippi had shown their willingness to acquiesce in the measures of the Federal Government on most points, had repealed the ordi- nance of secession and abolished slavery forever, a large majority of them were opposed to the admission of the negro to citizenship and the ballot-box. The registration books in Mississippi in 1867 showed that of the white voters only 46,636 registered, while of the negroes there were 60,167. In the election which was subsequently held to decide whether or not the State shouid assemble a conven- tion, comparatively few of the white voters went to the polls, giving the Republicans, who favored the holding of a convention, an easy victory. In the election of delegates to this convention, the entire political power of the State was thrown into the hands of a few adventurers from the Northern States and a host of ignorant negroes. 12. The famous "forty-acres-and-a-mule " watchword of the Republicans had led the negroes to believe that the lands and property of their former owners would be distributed among them, and the non-fulfillment of this promise, together with the inflammatory speeches of their political leaders, caused the most violent demonstrations against the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 209 whites to be made in many localities. Apprehensions of the gravest nature were excited, and in December, 1867, Gov- ernor Humphreys was forced to appeal to General Ord for assistance in preventing insurrection. General Ord immedi- ately issued orders for the arrest of all persons, white or black, found plotting against public peace and safety. This had the effect of breaking up conspiracies, and restored, for a time, a feeling of confidence in the public security. 13. An organization known as the "Freedman's Bureau " was at this time in active operation in the Southern States.' It had been established by Congress for the " relief of freed- men refugees and abandoned lands," and, although the President vetoed the bill for its establishment, it was passed over his veto. The officers of this institution were granted the most arbitrary power in proceedings against the white inhabitants of the State, even forbidding their assembling together under any pretext whatever. 14. The election for the convention was held on the 5th of November, 1867, and the convention assembled on the 8th of January, 1868, continuing in session until the 18th of May. The famous " Barebones Parliament," of Revolution- ary celebrity, in England, was a dignified body in comparison with that which now sat within the legislative halls of Mississippi. B. B. Eggleston, of Ohio, presided over their deliberations. The very foundations of State Government, which had been laid in law and order, were torn up by this sacrilegious mob. One of their first acts was the appoint- ment of a committee to petition Congress for power to remove the State officials, appointed or elected under the provisional government, and to appoint others in their stead, charging that the provisional government was in the hands of the rebels, and that the lives and property of loyal men were insecure. 15. The High Court of Errors and Appeals, with its elective judiciary, was abolished, and a Supreme Court, 210 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. consisting of three judges appointed by the Governor, estab- lished in its stead. The Circuit benches were also required to be filled by appointment, and a separate Chancery Court was established in each county, with full jurisdiction in all matters in equity and such as pertained to a court of chan- cery. The Chancellor's office was required to be filled in the same manner as the Circuit Judges and Judges of the Supreme Court. 16. The office of Lieutenant-Governor was established; also a Commissioner of Emigration and Agriculture, who should be elected by the Legislature. A Board of County Supervisors was substituted for the old Board of Police. A system of free public schools was adopted, and the office of State Superintendent of Public Education established. It was provided that that officer, in connection with the Secretary of State and Attorney-General, should form a Board of Education for the management and investment of the school funds, under the direction of the Legislature. A Superintendent of Education for each county was also pro- vided for, the office to be filled by appointment from the State Board, or made elective by the Legislature. 17. Universal suffrage was established, with the exception of criminals only. The ordinance of secession was declared null and void, the existence of slavery prohibited, payment of the war debt forbidden, and the State restrained from participating in the stock of corporations, and from lending its credit to any private enterprise. An election to ratify the Constitution and for the election of State officers, a Legislature, and Representatives in Congress was ordered to be held on June 22, 1868. Before adjourning, the mem- bers of this convention voted to themselves the most extravagant compensation for their services during the session. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 21! QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXIV. Legislature of Mississippi at the time of the surrender of General Richard Taylor? Its adjournment? When did the Federal troops enter Jackson ? Action of Governor Clarke when called upon to surrender? His arrest and imprisonment? Last official act of Gov- ernor Clarke? Placing of the recent Confederate States under martial Jaw? Appointment of Provisional Governors? Who was appointed Governor of Mississippi? What recommended him to the authorities at Washington? Convention of 1865? Who was elected Governor of Mississippi ? Who were elected to the United States Senate from Mississippi in 1865? Representatives? Why were they not admitted to their seats? When was Governor Humphreys inaugurated? Extract from his inaugural address. What memorial was presented to President Johnson by the Legislature of Mississippi ? What com- mission was also sent to Washington? What grievance was for a time removed by order of President Johnson ? What of the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution? What Southern State alone accepted these amendments ? Why did the others refuse to ratify them ? What did Congress declare concerning them ? When was the Military Reconstruction Bill passed ? Its purport? Who was placed in command of the Fourth Military District? When did he enter upon the duties of his office? Order concerning elections? Its effect upon the State? What of the Reconstruction Act? Was Gov- ernor Humphreys permitted to retain his seat? What did the registra- tion books in Mississippi show in 1867 ? Why did the Republicans gain an easy victory in 1867? With what promise had this party led the negroes to victory? Demonstrations against the whites? Why was Governor Humphreys forced to appeal to the military authorities? Effect of this appeal? Organization of the " Freedman's Bureau?" Its object? Convention of 1868? Its personnel ? Its President? One of the first acts of this convention? Abolishment of the High Court of Errors and Appeals? Other changes? Public school system? Universal suffrage? The Ordinance of Secession? Slavery? The war debt ? The election ? 212 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXXV. 1868. 1. At the ensuing election the total vote on the ratification of the Constitution was 120,091, of which 55,231 were for the Constitution, and 63,860 against it. The clauses which rendered the Constitution so obnoxious to the white popula- tion of the State were those relating to universal suffrage and eligibility to office. The clause relating to the latter was even more vindictive than the acts of Congress required, its proscriptive nature securing its own defeat, the more intelligent negroes voting with the whites against it. 2. No one was allowed to register without first swearing that he had not been disfranchised by any of the acts of the Reconstruction Bill. No one who had voted for the call of the convention that passed the ordinance of secession, who had voted for or signed such ordinance, or who had aided or countenanced the rebellion in any way, was allowed to hold office, unless he had afterward aided reconstruction by voting for the Constitutional Convention. 3. Governor Humphreys was re-elected, receiving 63,321 votes, against 55,250 for B. B. Eggleston, the Republican candidate. Four of the five Congressmen elected were Democrats, and the Democrats had a small majority in the Legislature. On the 4th of June, 1868, General Ord was removed from the command of the Fourth Military District, and General Irwin McDowell placed in his stead. On the 15th of the same month, General McDowell issued an order removing Governor Humphreys and appointing General Adelbert Ames, of Maine, to the vacancy. At the same time, the Attorney-General, Charles E. Hooker, who had served with distinction through the war as Major-General HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 213 in the Confederate service, was removed, and Captain Jasper Myers appointed instead. Governor Humphreys was notified of the change by General Ames, but declined to vacate the office, regarding the order of General McDowell as a " usurpation of the Civil Government of Mississippi, unwarranted by, and in violation of, the Constitution of the United States." 4. Congress, however, sustained the order of General McDowell, and a body of soldiers took possession of the Governor's office, ejecting the lawful incumbent at the point of the bayonet. The Governor's mansion was then demanded, and upon Governor Humphreys' refusal to vacate it, the bayonets of the soldiers were again brought into requisition. After the rightful occupant had been ejected, Governor Ames took possession of the " Mansion " and of all the public buildings and archives. 5. In March, 1869, a joint resolution was passed by Con- gress, which ordered that all persons holding office in Missis- sippi who could not take the "Test Oath" prescribed in 1862, should be removed from office. It empowered the military commander of the district to fill the vacancies exist- ing in consequence of these removals by the appointment of persons who could take the test oath. General Ames about this time was made the military commander of the district, and immediately proceeded to carry into effect the joint resolution of Congress, by a general order, dated March 23, 1869. Another order was issued about the same time requiring that negroes should be received as jurors. 6. General Grant in the meantime had succeeded Andrew Johnson as President of the United States, and Congress passed an Act authorizing him to submit the Constitution of the State to another election by the people, the obnoxious features, which had secured its defeat in the first instance, being submitted to a separate vote. 7. The election was held on November 30th, and Decern- 214 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ber I, 1869, and the result was the rejection of the obnox- ious features of the Constitution by large majorities. The Constitution as amended was ratified. There were 105,223 votes in favor of ratification, against 954 opposed. The vote against the disfranchisement of Confederate soldiers was almost unanimous. 8. The Democrats had no ticket in the field at this elec- tion, knowing that it was useless to contend against the Republicans, who were divided into two wings or parties. The Radical Republicans, who had the support of the Presi- dent and Congress of the United States, with a view to conciliating the white voters, placed a conservative ticket for State officers in the field and deprived their platform of its most obnoxious features. Hon. James L. Alcorn, a wealthy planter and politician of Coahoma county, Missis- sippi, was placed at the head of this ticket for Governor. General Alcorn, who was educated at Princeton, Kentucky, had been a citizen of Mississippi from his early manhood. Six months after his arrival in the State he was elected to the Legislature. In 1857, he was nominated by the Whig party as a candidate against L. Q. C. Lamar, whose dis- trict contained a large Democratic majority. He was elected to the State Convention in 1861 as a Unionist, resisting the ordinance of secession while hope of its defeat remained. 9. After the secession of the State, Alcorn raised a brigade of troops pledged for a twelve months' service in the field. The Convention of Mississippi appointed him third on the list of the Brigadier-Generals of the State troops. General Alcorn was elected to the Legislature in 1865, and from there to the United States Senate for a term of six years, though he was not allowed to take his seat on account of existing difficulties. The platform on which he was nomi- nated for Governor declared in favor of a removal of political disabilities as soon as possible. It also pledged itself to a just and economical administration of the State HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 215 and National Governments, freedom of speech and of elec- tions, free schools and a reformation of the system of taxa- tion. Fidelity to the Union and to the Republican party, the equality of all men before the law without regard to HON. L Q. C. LAMAR race, color, or previous condition, were insisted upon by this platform. 10. The other wing of this party was known as the "National Union Republican " party. There was very little difference in the platform of this and the Radical Republican party. Its nominee for Governor was Judge Lewis Dent, brother-in-law of President Grant, whose influence it was hoped could be secured. This hope, how- ever, was not realized, as President Grant stood by the nominees of the regular Republican party. ii. General Alcorn was elected, receiving 76,186 votes, against 38,097 for Judge Dent. The entire Congressional 1 216 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. delegation and three-fourths of the Legislature were com- posed of Republicans. A general order from the military commander of the district directed the Legislature to meet at Jackson on the nth of January, 1870. Another general order appointed General Alcorn Provisional Governor, but he declined to accept the appointment, preferring to receive his office directly from the people. 12. The Congressmen elected from the State at large were Geo. E. Harris, J. L. Morphis, H. W. Barry, Geo. C. McKee, and L. W. Perce. The Legislature, which met on the nth of January, 1870, proceeded to the election of three United States Senators, two to fill out unexpired terms, and Hiram R. Revels, a very intelligent colored man, for the remaining short term. These Senators and the Representatives from Mississippi were the first that were admitted to seats after the war. 13. In i860 the population of Mississippi had been 791,305 ; in 1870 it was 827,922, an increase of only 4.63 per cent. The war, which had swept away a large proportion of the flower of her male population, and entirely retarded immi- gration, was the principal cause of the slow rate of increase, though the reconstruction measures adopted after the war did not tend to attract population. 14. The census report of 1870 shows that Mississippi that year surpassed all other States in the production of cotton. The corn crop was unusually large also. The total value of real and personal estate had dwindled from $607,324,911 in i860, to $209,197,345 in 1870. This diminution in the value of personal property was due chiefly to the emancipa- tion of slaves. The total State taxation in 1870 was $3,736,432, of which $1,796,230, including $1,138,494 due to the educational funds, was State, $656,585 county, and $141,600 town and city. The State held bonds and stocks to the amount of $966,674 as securities for loans to railroads, etc. The State penitentiary was rebuilt after the war. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 217 The convicts, in 1870, were employed partly within the walls upon manufactures and partly leased to persons who employed them on public works in different parts of the State. 15. A State Normal School, devoted to the training of colored teachers, was established at Holly Springs in 1870. According to the census of that year the number of schools of all classes was 1,564, with 1,054 male and 674 female teachers, and 22,793 male and 20,658 female pupils, and an annual income of $780,339. The Constitution of 1868 required the establishment of a system of free public schools for all youth between the ages of five and twenty-one years, but the Act to carry this provision into effect was not passed until 1871. 16. The University of Mississippi, which was reorganized soon after the close of the war, was in 1870 in a flourishing condition. It embraced three departments : preparatory, scientific, literature, the arts, and professional. Alcorn University for colored students was incorporated by an Act of May 13, 1871, which appropriated $50,000 a year for ten years for its support, and also bestowed upon it three-fifths of the proceeds of the 210,000 acres of land granted by Congress to the State for the endowment of educational institutions. The tuition was made gratuitous to all colored students living in Mississippi. 17. At Tongaloo University, established in 1870, near the center of the State, there are university, primary and intermediate, normal and theological departments, all for the benefit of colored students. Workshops and a farm of five hundred acres are connected with this school, which enable students to support themselves wholly or jn part by their own labor. Shaw University, founded at Holly Springs in 1873, has preparatory, normal, collegiate, theo- logical and law departments. The name, since its founda- tion, has been changed to Rust University. The Faculty 218 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. receives its salary from the treasury of the Freedman's Aid Society. The number of newspapers and other periodicals published in the State in 1870 was in, of which three were daily, six tri-weekly, three semi-weekly, ninety-two weekly, two semi-monthly, and five monthly. The total number of church organizations at that time was 1,829. Church property was valued at $2,360,800. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXV. Result of the election in 1868? Clauses of the Constitution obnox- ious to the whites ? Who alone were allowed to register ? Who were debarred from holding office? Who was elected Governor? Election of Congressmen ? Removal of General Ord ? His successor ? Order removing General Humphreys from office ? Who was appointed in his stead? Removal of General Hooker? Action of Governor Hum- phreys? Did Congress sustain the order of General McDowell? How was Governor Humphreys removed from office? In what man- ner did Governor Ames obtain possession of the Governor's mansion ? What resolution was passed by Congress in 1869? What did it empower the military commanders to do ? Who was made military commander of the Fourth District? Other orders issued about the same time ? Who had succeeded President Johnson ? What had Congress authorized him to do ? Did the Democrats place any ticket in the field during this campaign ? How was the Republican party divided? James L. Alcorn? Give a sketch of his public life prior to this time? Give the platform upon which he was nominated? The other wing of this party? Its platform ?nd nominees ? Result of the election? Military orders ? Population of Mississippi in 1870? Cause of the slow rate of increase? Census report of 1870? Report of schools? The University of Mississippi? Tongaloo University? Shaw? Change of name? Number of periodicals? Church property? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 219 CHAPTER XXXVI. 1871. 1. At the election in November, 1871, it was found that the Democratic party had made considerable gains, but the Republicans were still very largely in the majority. The Senate was composed of twenty-two Republicans and four- teen Democrats, and the House of sixty-two Republicans, forty-six Democrats, and three Independents. While the value of real estate throughout the State had greatly depreciated, taxes had multiplied to an enormous extent, and the expenditures in comparison with former years were alarming. 2. On the 30th of November, 1871, Governor Alcorn resigned his office to take his seat in the Senate of the United States. Lieutenant-Governor R. C. Powers suc- ceeded him as Governor of Mississippi. In the Presidential election of 1872, General Grant's majority over Greeley, in Mississippi, was 34,887. Hon. L. Q. C. Lamar was elected to Congress by the Democrats of the First District. The remaining four dis- tricts were represented by Republicans. A. R. Howe rep- resented the Second, H. W. Barry the Third, Jason Niles the Fourth, and George C. McKee the Fifth. 3. The State Superintendent of Public Education reported that for the period beginning January 1st and ending August 31, 1873, two thousand public schools were in operation in the entire State, of which three hundred were of the first grade, seven hundred of the second, and one thousand of the third grade. The whole number of pupils enrolled in the public schools was eighty thousand, the number of teachers one thousand 220 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. eight hundred. The length of the school term was only four months. Public school property in the State amounted to $1,000,000. 4. In 1873, the Democratic party met in convention, but decided, in view of the immense Republican majority, to make no nominations for State officers. The Republican party again divided, that wing of which General J. L. Alcorn was the acknowledged leader styling themselves " Liberals." They were in favor of home rule and a more economical administration of State and county government. Alcorn was nominated for Governor. 5. The regular Republican party nominated General Adel- bert Ames, of Massachusetts, for Governor. He was the same officer who had figured so conspicuously in the expul- sion of Governor Humphreys. Three negroes were placed on this ticket as candidates for the most important offices in the gift of the people. They were A. K. Davis, nominated for the office of Lieutenant-Governor ; James Hill, for Secre- tary of State, and J. W. Cardozo, for Superintendent of Public Education. 6. The regular Republican ticket was elected, Ames receiving 74,307 votes, against 52,904 for Alcorn. The Senate was composed of twenty Republicans and forty-four Democrats. A large majority of the Republican members of the Legislature were negroes. These voted solidly against the whites, and were able to defeat every measure of reform introduced by them. 7. The election of Ames and his colleagues resulted in arraying the white and black races in Mississippi against each other. Race conflicts, resulting often in bloodshed and death, were of frequent occurrence, and the inhabitants of the State were compelled to submit to the presence of armed bodies of negroes, commanded by officers of their own color, of the most dangerous and turbulent type. 8. The belief prevailing among the white inhabitants HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 221 that, for selfish ends and partisan purposes, the Governor and other State officers were encouraging the negroes to open acts of violence, added greatly to the general indigna- tion caused by these outrages. In December, 1874, a serious riot occurred at Vicksburg, in which many of the inhabitants of the country, mostly negroes, were killed. It is said that when this riot was reported to Governor Ames, he coolly remarked: " The killing of fifteen or twenty negroes would be of immense benefit to the Republican party at this time. What if this contest does cost blood ? The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." 9. The white people of Mississippi, and many of the negroes, recoiled in horror from the rule of a man capable of expressing such sentiments as these. The most vindictive feelings of the lower class of negroes were aroused against the whites by the inflammatory speeches and incendiary teachings of their political leaders, and the peace and safety of the whites were constantly menaced by the presence of armed bodies of infuriated negroes. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXVI. What was shown by the election of 1871? Representation in Con- gress? Taxes and real estate? Resignation of Governor Alcorn? His successor? Election of Senator Lamar? Republicans in Con- gress? Report of State Superintendent of Education? Decision of the Democratic Convention of 1873 ? How was the Republican party divided? " Liberal " nominee for Governor? Nominee of the regular Republican party? Negroes on the ticket ? Which wing of the party was elected? Number of Republicans in the Senate? Democrats? Negro members of the Legislature? Result of the election in Missis- sippi? Race conflicts? What added greatly to the indignation of the whites? Riot at Vicksburg? Remark of Governor Ames concerning it ? Feeling among the whites and the better classes of the blacks ? 222 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXXVII. 1875. 1. In 1875, a general convention of tax-payers, without regard to party, met at Jackson to consult as to the best measures to be adopted for the bringing about of a reform in the administration of their State government. A com- mittee was appointed to petition the Legislature in regard to the evils inflicted upon the State by taxation and misap- propriation of the public money. They showed that the tax on land, which in 1869 was ten cents on the one hundred dollars, was, in 1871, four times greater than that amount, eight times greater in 1872, twelve and one-naif times greater in 1873, a °d fourteen times greater in 1874, while the assessment of property was greatly above its real value. Bills introduced into the Legislature for the purpose of remedying these evils were defeated by the negro members of the same. 2. In 1875, the Democratic party made a determined effort to break the yoke of misrule and oppression under which the State had been so long laboring. On the 3d of August, 1875, the Democratic Executive Committee met in Jackson, electing General J. Z. George, Chairman. General George was a soldier in the Mexican war, having volunteered as a private in the First Regiment of Mississippi Volunteers, and participating in the battle and glories of Monterey. On his return to Mississippi he studied law and was admitted to the bar of Carroll county. In 1854 he was elected Reporter of the High Court of Errors and Appeals, was re-elected in i860, and prepared and published ten volumes of the reports of the decisions of that court, and afterward pre- pared and published a Digest of all the decisions of the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 223 Supreme Court and of the High Court of Errors and Appeals, from the admission of the State into the Union to and includ- ing the year 1870. General George was a member of the convention of 1861, which passed the ordinance of secession, voting for and signing that instrument. At the beginning of the war he volunteered his services and was made cap- tain of a company in the Twentieth Regiment of Mississippi Volunteers. He afterward received a commission of Briga- dier-General of State troops, but preferring the Confederate service, was made Colonel of the Fifth Regiment of Missis- sippi cavalry, making an enviable reputation as a soldier and commander. 3. The platform adopted by the memorable convention of August, 1875, was an extremely liberal one. The name, "Democratic-Conservative" party, was assumed, and many who had previously voted with opposition parties enlisted in its ranks. The canvass preceding the election was attended with much violence and bloodshed. A riot occurred at Clinton, between the whites and blacks, in which a number of people were killed, the negroes killing several white men under circumstances of great barbarity. 4. Governor Ames appealed to President Grant for assist- ance during the excitement of this campaign, asking for United States troops to quell the "domestic disturbances" which were the direct results of the teachings of his party in the South. The President refused, telegraphing that the "public had grown tired of the autumnal outbreaks at the South." Upon failing to receive the expected aid from Washington, Governor Ames undertook to organize a body of militia, composed entirely of colored men, for the avowed purpose of assisting in the preservation of peace. The Democratic State Committee issued an earnest protest against this proceeding, charging the alien Governor with endeavoring to " stir up war between the races." 5. The result of the election was a complete victory for 224 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. the Democratic party. The Democratic nominees for Con- gress were all elected except, one. Mr. Lamar, who had contributed greatly to the success of the campaign by his influence and his eloquence, was triumphantly re-elected from the First District. The State was now entitled to six Congressmen. The Democratic Congressmen from the Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Districts were G. Wiley Wells, Hernando D. Money, Otho R. Singleton, and Gen- eral Charles E. Hooker, known as the " silver-tongued orator of Mississippi." The Republicans elected John R. Lynch, colored, from the Sixth, or " Shoe-string," District. 6. In the State Senate there were twenty-six Democrats to eleven Republicans, and in the House of Representatives there were ninety-seven Democrats to twenty Republicans, the majority of the Democrats on joint ballot of the Legis- lature being ninety-two. The greatest enthusiasm prevailed throughout the State when the result of the election was made known, and it was realized that the intelligent tax- payers of the State, " native and to the manner born," would now have some voice in the choice of State and county officers. The general joy was manifested by the ringing of bells, firing of cannon, and the marshaling of processions of rejoicing voters. These rejoicings were not confined to the Democratic party alone. Good citizens everywhere, irrespective of color or party ties, were thankful that the long reign of misrule and plunder was over. 7. The Legislature met in January, 1876, and immedi- ately began the work of retrenchment and reform. On the 6th of that month, that distinguished soldier and statesman, General Winfield Scott Featherstone, offered the following resolution : Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed by the Speaker of the House to inquire into the official conduct of Adelbert Ames, Gov- ernor of the State of Mississippi, and to report to the House as early as practicable whether there are good grounds for his impeachment of high crimes and misdemeanors. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 225 This resolution was adopted, and on the 8th of January the committee was appointed, with power to examine per- sons and papers, and ordered to submit their report, with the testimony taken, to the House of Representatives. 8. General Featherstone was appointed chairman of this committee, which conducted the investigation in the most careful manner, sitting from three to five hours each day for thirty-eight days, examining a large number of wit- nesses, the majority of whom belonged to the same political party with Governor Ames. At the beginning of the inves- tigation, Ames was informed of the points on which the witnesses were to be examined, and requested to furnish the committee with the names of such witnesses as he might desire to have summoned and examined in vindica- tion of his official conduct. This request was complied with, and the witnesses named by Governor Ames were subjected to the same examination as those summoned by the committee. 9. On the 22d of February, 1876, the investigating committee submitted its report to the House, with the declaration that "its members had endeavored to divest themselves of all partisan feeling and personal prejudices, keeping steadily in view the one great object to be attained, the ascertaining whether the official conduct of Governor Ames had furnished the people of the State with grounds which would justify and demand his impeachment." The report was as follows : Resolved, That Adelbert Ames, Governor of the State of Missis- sippi, be impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors in office. 10. On the 24th of February, the House went into secret session in order to continue the reading of the testimony accompanying the report of the committee. This occupied nearly a week's time, and after its conclusion, on the 2d of March, General Featherstone, in behalf of the managers of 226 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. the impeachment against Governor Ames, reported twenty- one articles of impeachment as "exhibited by the House of Representatives of the State of Mississippi, in the name of themselves and of the people of the State against Adelbert Ames, Governor of Mississippi, in] maintenance and support of their impeachment against him for high crimes and mis- demeanors in office." n. The Articles of Impeachment were adopted by the House of Representatives by a majority of sixty-three. The Clerk of the House was instructed to inform the Senate of the passage of this resolution and articles of impeach- ment, and that body at once began proceedings as a Court of Impeachment. While these proceedings were pending, Governor Ames, in a communication to the House of Repre- sentatives, tendered his resignation, on condition that the articles of impeachment be withdrawn. His proposition was promptly accepted ; the articles were dismissed by the House and from before the bar of the Senate. 12. The resignation of Governor Ames took effect on the 20th of March, 1876. Hon. John M. Stone, President of the Senate, assumed, by virtue of his office, the duties of the Governor, the Lieutenant-Governor, A. K. Davis, having been impeached by the Legislature. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXVII. What convention met in Jackson in 1875? What committee was appointed to petition the Legislature? What was shown in regard to the tax on land? How were bills introduced into the Legislature defeated? What determined effort was made by the Democratic party? Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Democratic party? Chairman of the committee? Sketch of General George? Platform of the Democratic-Conservative party? The canvass preceding the election? Riot at Clinton? Appeal to the President for assistance? His refusal? Attempt to organize colored troops? Result of the election? Election of Democratic nominees for Congress ? Represen- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 227 tative from the " Shoe-string " District? Democratic majority in the State Legislature? Feeling throughout the State regarding the elec- tion? How was the general joy manifested? Work of the Legisla- ture? Resolution offered by General Featherstone ? Its adoption? Committee of investigation ? Witnesses summoned ? Report of the investigating committee? Secret session of the House? Its report? Articles of Impeachment against Ames? By what majority were they adopted in the House? Proceedings of the Senate? Resignation of Ames? Who assumed the duties of Governor of the State? W " 228 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XXXVIII. 1876. 1. Governor Stone entered the service of the Confederacy, as captain of a company of Mississippi volunteers, about the 1st of May, 1861. He was attached to the Second Mississippi regiment, commanded by Colonel W. C. Faulk- ner, and proceeded to Harper's Ferry, thence with his regi- ment to Manassas Junction, participating in the great battle of July 21, 1861. 2. On the 16th of April, 1862, the regiment was reorgan- ized at Yorktown, Virginia, and Captain Stone was elected its Colonel. In this capacity he continued to serve until the close of the war, participating in most of the important battles in which the Army of Northern Virginia was engaged ; was captured at Salisbury, North Carolina, on the 1st of April, 1865, by General Stoneman's command, and carried to Camp Chase, Ohio, and from thence to Johnson's Island, where he remained a prisoner until the 25th of July of that year. Returning to his home at Iuka, Mississippi, he remained until the general election in 1869, when he was elected to the State Senate for a term of four years. In 1873 he was re-elected, and at the session of 1876 was chosen President of the Senate, and from thence succeeded to the Governor's chair. 3. T. W. Cardozo, colored, Superintendent of Public Education, resigned his office on the 21st of March, 1876, articles of impeachment having been presented against him by the House of Representatives. The Legislature, after a long and laborious session, completed its labors on the 15th of April, and adjourned. 4. The wise and prudent legislation of this session, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 229 together with the spirit of retrenchment and reform that pervaded every department of the State government, restored public confidence to a great extent, the people realizing that a new era in the financial history of the country had begun. At the beginning of the year 1875, State warrants were worth from seventy-five to eighty-five cents on the dollar. At the close of the session of 1876, these warrants had risen to ninety-five cents, and by the next meeting of the Legislature were worth dollar for dollar. 5. In 1875, the expenditures of the Executive Department of the State were $33,947.30 ; for the year 1876 they were $30,340.69. Those of the Legislative Departments for the same years were, respectively, $ 1 18,624. 30 and $ 100,854.73, making a decrease for 1876 of $17,769.66. The total de- crease in the disbursement of State warrants in 1876, as compared with the previous year, was $311,891,855. 6. In 1876, a tax of six and one-half dollars was levied on every thousand dollars' worth of property for State pur- poses. In 1875 this levy had been forty-two per cent, greater. The practical results of the reform inaugurated by this Legislature were felt immediately by the tax-payers of the State. 7. Up to the 1 st day of December, 1876, the State had, since the last meeting of the Legislature, paid the sum of $137,400 of her bonded debt, and $41,824 interest on the same, besides canceling certificates of indebtedness to the amount of $122,504. The total amount of indebtedness of the State at the close of the year 1876 was $1,100,- 605.22. 8. The system of public education which had been incor- porated with the government of the State was received with great favor by the majority of the people. For the year 1876, the total number of children, of both races, enrolled in the public schools was 166,204. The State universities and 230 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. normal schools were reported to be in a flourishing con- dition. 9. The Exhibition of the United States Centennial opened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the 10th day of May, 1876. The Legislature of Mississippi, at its last session, had organized the "Centennial Board of Managers," that the State might be creditably represented at the Exhibition. A building was erected at Fairmount Park to serve as head- quarters for visitors from Mississippi, which was composed of lumber of sixty-eight varieties of timber grown in two counties in the State, Pike and Lincoln. The limited time and appropriation at the disposal of the Board prevented as full an exhibit of our State products and industries as might have otherwise been made. The first honors were awarded the Mississippi Mills, at Wesson, and the Whitfield Manu- facturing Company, at Corinth, for several classes of fabrics on exhibition. 10. In November, 1876, a special election for Congress- men was held. Two Republican Senators, Henry R. Pease, who had been appointed as the successor of General Ames, and B. K. Bruce, appointed March 4, 1875, were represent- ing the State at the National Capital. 11. The members of Congress elected were Henry L. Muldrow, from the First District; Van H. Manning, from the Second; H. D. Money, from the Third; O. R. Singleton, from the Fourth ; Charles E. Hooker, from the Fifth, and General James R. Chalmers, from the Sixth. 12. General J. R. Chalmers, Representative of the Sixth District, was a member of a family which had rendered distinguished service to the State and Confederacy, his father, Hon. Joseph W. Chalmers, having been formerly United States Senator from Mississippi, and his brother, Judge H. H. Chalmers, at a later day, Chief Justice [of Mississippi. General Chalmers graduated at the South Carolina College, Columbia, South Carolina, in December, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 231 185 1. He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1853, and was elected District Attorney of the Seventh Judicial District of Mississippi in 1858. He, with his distinguished cousin, David Chalmers Glenn, was elected to the Secession Convention of 1861. General Chalmers was made Chairman of the Committee on Military Affairs in that Convention. He entered the Confederate service as Captain, in March, 1861, and was elected Colonel of the Ninth Mississippi regiment in April, 1861. In February, 1862, he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General. At the battle of Shiloh his brigade was noted for the brilliant service performed on the field of action. General Chalmers was ordered by General Bragg to make the last charge on that fateful day, and succeeded in driving the enemy precipitately before him. Just at the moment when his brave Mississippians had secured victory at such a fearful cost, the order to retire was given and the day was lost. In 1863, General Chalmers was transferred to the cavalry service. His command consisted of the First Division of Forrest's Cavalry Army Corps, composed of Armstrong's, Adams', and Starke's brigades. General Chalmers was a member of the State Senate previous to his election to Congress in 1876. 13. The Legislature, which met in January, 1877, con- tinued the policy of retrenchment and reform adopted by the preceding session. Governor Stone was renominated by the Democratic State Convention, and was elected with- out opposition for a term of four years. W. H. Sims was elected Lieutenant-Governor ; Kinloch Falconer, Secretary of State; Sylvester Gwin, Auditor of Public Accounts; T. C. Catchings, Attorney-General ; W. L. Hemingway, Treasurer, and General James A. Smith, Superintendent of Public Education. 14. Governor Stone was inaugurated on the 10th of 232 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. January, 1878. His inaugural address was an honest, manly declaration of the principles actuating his official life. The following extract is significant of the time in which it was delivered : " No problem in politics was ever allotted to any people more difficult than that which the State of Mississippi, in common with her sister States of the South, is now called upon to solve. Can a government, based upon unlimited suffrage, be successfully carried on between two races, the most antagonistic on earth, which, while according equal rights to each, shall tend to the common prosperity and happiness of both? * * * Upon one point all good men will agree: There must be absolute and perfect protection to life, liberty, and property. The government that fails to give this is unworthy of the name. The humblest citizen of the State, no matter how poor or how ignorant, must feel that over his hut the law throws its mantle, and that he who dares to wrong him will feel the vengeance of the law's ministers. There must be no toleration of wrongs and injuries inflicted upon those who are too weak to defend themselves. It was for the defense of the weak that governments were organized and laws enacted." 15. Owing to the financial crisis of 1877, great distress prevailed in many quarters of the State. Although public expenditures and taxation had been greatly reduced, the people were still heavily burdened by them, and Governor Stone advised the Legislature to devise means of reducing them to the lowest ebb commensurate with the requirements of a good and economical government. 16. At this session the Legislature paid a fitting tribute to the memory of ex-Governor Charles Clarke, who had lately died at his home in Bolivar county, in December, 1877. At the time of his death he was Chancellor of the district in which he lived. 17. On the 4th of March, 1877, Hon. L. Q. C. Lamar had succeeded General J. L. Alcorn in the Senate of the United States, having been elected for a term of six years. 18. In the summer of 1878, Mississippi was visited by that dreadful scourge, yellow fever, and before the autumn HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 233 months had passed, many of the fairest portions of the State had been left desolate by its ravages. The fever raged violently at Memphis and New Orleans, and the refugees from both places scattered it broadcast over our country. Grenada, at the southern terminus of the Mississippi & Tennessee Railroad, suffered more, in proportion to its size, than either Memphis or New Orleans. Whole families were stricken down in a single day, in many instances not one recovering. The sick were dependent upon the ministra- tions of hired nurses ; the dead were buried hastily, without the usual funeral rites. 19. Most of the towns and cities of Mississippi adopted quarantine regulations during the prevalence of the fever, but the citizens of Holly Springs, with unexampled gener- osity, threw open their doors to the flying refugees from Grenada and other infected points, thereby imperiling their own lives. Within a short time the fever became epidemic in Holly Springs also, and many of the best and bravest of her citizens fell beneath its ravages. Prominent among these were Colonel H. W. Walter and his three sons, who showed as much true heroism as was ever displayed upon the field of battle. Colonel Walter was one of the oldest citizens of Holly Springs, was a brilliant and successful lawyer, and a pru- dent and conservative politician. He was a member of the Whig party as long as that organization lasted, at one time being placed at the head of its ticket for Governor. He was a member of the Secession Convention of 1861, and upon the beginning of hostilities volunteered his services to the Confederacy, and served faithfully as a soldier through- out the entire war. The tragic death of this heroic family, coupled with that of Hon. Kinloch Falconer, Secretary of State, who left his official duties that he might administer to the needs of the sick and dying at Holl)' Springs, threw a pall of gloom over the entire State. 234 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 20. The fever raged with unabated severity in many portions of the State until cold weather, and the lack of victims abated its progress. Effective sanitary regulations were at once adopted to prevent the recurrence of the dreaded plague. A State Board of Health was organized, and other means adopted for the protection of life and health, and the prevention of the spread of contagious diseases. 21. The Congressmen elected in 1878, from Mississippi, were Henry L. Muldrow, Van H. Manning, H. D. Money, O. R. Singleton, Charles E. Hooker, and James R. Chalmers. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXVIII. Give an outline sketch of Governor Stone. What of the resigna- tion of Cardozo ? What characterized the legislation of this session ? Value of State warrants at the close of 1876? Expenditures of the State in 1875? Practical results of the reform inaugurated in 1876? Total amount of indebtedness of the State at that time? Universities and Normal Schools? Centennial Exhibition? Action of the Legis- lature thereon ? Exhibits from Mississippi ? When was a special election for Congressmen held ? Members elected ? General James R. Chalmers? His services prior to and during the Civil war? Leg- islature of 1877? State officers elected? Inaugural address of Gov- ernor Stone ? Give the extract quoted. What of the financial crisis of 1876? Advice of Governor Stone to the State Legislature? Tribute to the memory of ex-Governor Clarke? Successor of General Alcorn in the United States Senate? The yellow fever epidemic of 1878? Quarantine regulations? Fever at Holly Springs? Noble conduct of her citizens? Sketch of Colonel H. W. Walter? How long did the fever continue its ravages in portions of Mississippi ? Congressmen from Mississippi in 1878? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 235 CHAPTER XXXIX. i. The bill for the establishment of an " Agricultural and Mechanical College " was passed by the Legislature of 1878, and a Commissioner appointed to select a suitable place for its location. Starkville, in Oktibbeha county, was selected as combining more advantages than any other locality in the State. An appropriation was made by the Legislature for the establishment and maintenance of the college, which is for the endowment of white students only. The tuition was made free, and many of the students are enabled in part to pay their board and other expenses by working on the college farm. All of the students are required to work and to learn practical farming. Military discipline is enforced. General Stephen D. Lee, a graduate of West Point, and one of the bravest and most skillful of Confed- erate officers during the war, was made president of the college. 2. The cotton crop of Mississippi for 1879-80 was 955,808 bales. The corn crop for the same year amounted to 21,340,800 bushels. The number of manufactories in the State in 1870 amounted to 1,731. In 1880, the number had increased to 2,331, employing 7,845 hands. The principal articles manufactured in the State are lumber, cotton and woolen goods, cotton yarns, cotton-seed oil, agricultural implements, wagons, brick, iron castings, and machinery. The principal factories are situated at Wesson, Natchez, Corinth, Enterprise, Water Valley, Carrollton, Canton, Bay Springs, and Ulmanville, near Bay St. Louis. 3. The United States Government has for sale in this State about 3,500,000 acres of land, and the State Govern- HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 237 ment holds about 34,000 acres of the Chickasaw School land and 22,000 acres of internal improvement land. In 1879, about 1,300,000 acres of bottom lands were sold by the Levee Commissioners of Lands, and during the same time about 500,000 acres of Government lands were sold. 4. By the beginning of the year 1880, the public-school system, which had been incorporated with our Government, had taken firm hold of the people of the State. The Legislature of 1882 fixed the State tax at two and a half mills, including the tax to pay principal and interest on the State bonds. January 1, 1882, the State debt was $324,415, with more than funds enough in the treasury to pay the debt. The bondholders, however, preferred to hold the bonds. 5. On the 3d of March, 1881, General J. Z. George was elected to the United States Senate as the successor of B. K. Bruce. He was elected for a term of six years. On the 4th of March, 1881, James A. Garfield and Chester A. Arthur were inaugurated as President and Vice-President of the United States. The canvass preceding this election was marked by great excitement. In the fall of 1880, Henry L. Muldrow from the First District, Van H. Manning from the Second, H. D. Money from the Third, O. R. Singleton from the Fourth, Chas. E. Hooker from the Fifth, and John R. Lynch from the Sixth, were elected to Congress. 6. Governor Stone's administration drew to a close, with a State united, prosperous, and happy. The Democratic State Convention of 1881 nominated General Robert Lowry as his successor. During the war General Lowry distin- guished himself for personal bravery on the field of battle, commanding the Sixth Mississippi regiment at the battle of Shiloh. This regiment suffered a greater loss of men on that bloody field than any other command on either side. 7. The following officers were nominated on the same 238 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ticket with General Lowry : For Lieutenant-Governor, D. G. Shands ; Secretary of State, H. C. Myers ; Treasurer, W. L. Hemingway ; Attorney-General, T. C. Catchings ; Superintendent of Public Education, General J. A. Smith. 8. The summer of 1881 witnessed the tragic conclusion of the life of President Garfield. While standing in a rail- way station, preparatory to leaving Washington City for the sea-side, in July, 188 1, he was shot by an assassin, Charles J. Guiteau, and, after a long and painful illness, died from the effects of the wound. His death was sincerely mourned by the people of the United States, the Southern people sharing, with those of other sections of the country, regret over his untimely death. The assassin feigned insanity to escape punishment, but, after an imprisonment of nearly one year, he was tried and found guilty of murder, and in June, 1882, was executed by hanging. 9. After the death of President Garfield, in September, 1 88 1, Vice-President Chester A. Arthur assumed the duties of President of the United States. President Garfield had been anxious for a thorough restoration of friendly feeling between the people of the North and South, and was very hopeful that it would be accomplished during his administra- tion. His successor entered fully into the spirit of his cherished purposes, and an era of good feeling between the North and South dates from Garfield's death. 10. The Republican party in Mississippi placed no ticket in the field for the election of State officers in 1881. The Greenback party, which had been recently organized and had many adherents, formed a ticket with Benjamin King at its head for Governor. The Democrats, however, swept the State, every officer on the State ticket being elected. Governor Lowry assumed the duties of his office in January, 1882. Ex-Governor Stone retired to private life, carrying with him the love and respect of all classes of the people. 11. The opening months of 1882 were signalized by an HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 239 unprecedented overflow of the Mississippi river and its tributaries. From the mouth of the Ohio river to New Orleans, the Mississippi overran the levees and spread its waters over the adjacent lands, carrying ruin and devasta- tion in its track. No previous overflow had been so great in extent or so disastrous in its consequences. The country along the river valley, over which the waters spread, rivals the famous valley of the Nile in productiveness, being made up of layer after layer of fertile soil, the deposit of many centuries. It had well repaid the efforts of agriculturists to cultivate it, and was capable of sustaining a much greater population than really occupied it. 12. It would be impossible to describe the sufferings and losses sustained at this period by the inhabitants of the over- flowed districts. Many lives were lost and millions of dollars' worth of property destroyed. Many homeless and starving people were rescued from the submerged plantations by steamers, which penetrated the country for that purpose. Clothes, food, and medicine were provided for the sufferers by the Government and by private subscription, the people of the North and South vying with each other in generosity. The Legislature of Mississippi appropriated fifteen thousand dollars for the relief of the sufferers from the flood. Henry L. Muldrow, James R. Chalmers, E. Jeffords, H. D. Money, Otho R. Singleton, H. S. Van Eaton, and Ethelbert Barks- dale were elected to Congress on the 7th of November, 1882, the representation in Congress having been increased from six to seven members. 13. For 1883, the Auditor's report showed the valuation of real and personal property in the State to be $126,754,- 927. The assessment for that year showed an increase of $20,556,227 over the valuation in 1879, when land was last assessed. The expenditures for 1883 amounted, in the aggregate, to $836,499.90. The State Board of Immigration and Agriculture, through its commissioner, E. G. Wall, had 240 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. done much toward developing the resources of the country by its published reports, which, finding their way to the North and West, were the means of inducing a superior class of immigrants to settle in many portions of the State. 14. In June, 1883, the trustees opened the doors of the State University to women, an advanced step which marked the progress of new ideas in the State. This step was recommended by the State Teachers' Association, a body which, meeting annually at the capital of the State, wields an important influence over, the educational interests thereof. There was, and still is, a very strong sentiment in the State against the co-education of the sexes, though the plan received the indorsement of many of the ablest and most experienced educators in the State. 15. The Agricultural and Mechanical College at Starkville was, from the first, crowned with a remarkable degree of success in its peculiar field of labor. A very large number of students attend yearly, and during the first three years of its existence the college received from the sale of the sur- plus produce of its farm and dairy $7,447.44. The Legis- lature of 1882 passed an Act for the erection of the " East Mississippi Insane Asylum," and by the month of October, 1883, the building was completed and in successful opera- tion. It was located at Meridian. The same Legislature appropriated a sum for the establishment of an institution for the care and instruction of colored deaf mutes. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XXXIX. What of the establishment of the "Agricultural and Mechanical College ? " Appropriations and requirements for same? Its President? Cotton crop of Mississippi in 1879-80? Corn crop? Other statistics? Government lands? Levee Commissioners? Public-school system in 1880? State tax in 1882 ? State debt? Who was elected to the Sen- ate of the United States to succeed B. K. Bruce? Presidential election HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 241 of 1880? Congressmen from Mississippi in 1880? What of the administration of Governor Stone? Nomination of General Lowry as his successor? Sketch of his life? State officers elected at the same time? Assassination of President Garfield ? His murderer? Successor to Garfield ? The era of good feeling between the North and South ? Did the Republicans place a ticket in the field in Mississippi in 1881 ? What of the Greenback party? Its nominee for Governor? Success of the Democratic party and inauguration of Governor Lowry? Dis- astrous overflow of the Mississippi in 1882? Sufferings occasioned thereby? Government aid .for the sufferers? Auditor's report for 1883 ? State Board of Immigration and Agriculture? What advanced step was taken by the Trustees of the State University in 1883. Suc- cess of the Agricultural and Mechanical College? Erection of the " East Mississippi Insane Asylum." 12 242 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XL 1884. 1. The Legislature of Mississippi, which, since 1878, had met biennially, convened in Jackson on the 8th of January, 1884. The Governor's message ' recapitulated the rapid progress made by the State in all material advantages since the re-establishment of law and order by the election of home rulers. The census of 1880 had been issued to the public, and showed a marvelous progress in the wealth and industries of Mississippi. All the lands forfeited to the State for taxes had either been redeemed or purchased, except about 700,000 acres. 2. Within the last two years alone 461,873 acres had been purchased, through the Auditor's office, from the State, showing the growing confidence of the people in the State's future. A reduction in the State debt and the rate of taxa- tion and yearly expenditures had also been accomplished, without detriment to the public service or neglect of the different charitable and educational institutions. The older institutions had been liberally sustained and new ones estab- lished. The Legislature of 1884 passed a bill providing for the regulation of freight and passenger rates on railroads in Mississippi, and created a commission to supervise the same, and for other purposes. Ex-Governor Stone was a member of the first Railroad Commission. 3. The prohibition of the sale of intoxicating liquors excited much attention at this time, and the Legislature was memorialized in regard to the movement upon several differ- ent occasions. Efforts were also made at different times to ally the prohibition movement with different political parties, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 243 but the leaders in the temperance crusade very wisely held themselves aloof from the entanglements of politics. 4. Hon. J. F. H. Claiborne, the author of " Mississippi as Province, Territory, and State," was invited, during this session of the Legislature, to deliver a eulogy upon the life of his deceased colleague, S. J. Gholson. Mr. Claiborne's own death, which occurred not many months afterward, was a source of deep regret to the people of the entire State, especially as his invaluable labors in behalf of an authentic history of the State were not completed. After his death, his residence, containing the manuscript for his second volume of the "History of Mississippi," was destroyed by fire, so that his great work must forever remain incomplete. Besides his "History," Mr. Claiborne was the author of several biographical works of acknowl- edged merit. He was a graduate of the University of Mississippi, and that institution, a short time previous to his death, conferred upon him the degree of LL.D. 5. The Legislature at this session re-elected Mrs. Mary Morancy, the efficient State Librarian, who held the position until 1890. The Law Library of Mississippi, in point of excellence, stands third on the list of those in the United States. 6. The bill for the establishment of an Industrial College for the white girls of Mississippi was passed by this session of the Legislature. The Commissioners appointed for the selection of a suitable locality for the Institute, decided upon Columbus, in the eastern portion of the State. The citizens of that place made very liberal donations to the enterprise. Handsome buildings were erected by the State, efficient instructors in literature and the industrial arts were em- ployed, and the most improved appliances for a thorough and practical education were furnished the Institute. Pro- fessor R. W. Jones, of the University of Virginia, was elected President. Dr. Jones was for years connected with HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 245 the State University, and occupies a foremost place among the leading educators of the land. The plan of this school originated with a Mississippi woman, Mrs. Annie Peyton, of Hazelhurst. Believing in the practical, as well as the higher, education of her sex, Mrs. Peyton labored unceasingly with her pen to arouse public opinion upon this vital ques- tion, and her labors were finally crowned with success. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XL. Meeting of the Legislature in 1884? What of the Governor's Message? The census of 1880? Lands purchased from the State? Reduction in the State debt and public expenditures? What of the different charitable and educational institutions? Creation of the Railroad Commission ? What of the Prohibition movement in the State? Death of Hon. J. F. H. Claiborne? His " History of Missis- sippi?" Election of Mrs. Morancy as State Librarian? Bill for the establishment of an Industrial Institute for the white girls of Missis- sippi? Location of the Industrial Institute and College? Its first President ? With whom did the plan of this school originate? 246 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XLI. i 884-1 88 5. 1. In the summer of 1884, the National Democratic Con- vention met at Chicago and nominated for the offices of President and Vice-President of the United States, Grover Cleveland, of New York, and Thomas A. Hendricks, of Indiana. The Republican National Convention nominated for the same high offices, James G. Blaine, formerly Secre- tary of State under President Garfield, and General John A. Logan, of Illinois. 2. The canvass preceding the election was a very exciting one, and partisan feeling rose to a very high pitch. The result of the election showed that the Democrats had gained a brilliant victory, and for the first time in twenty-five years they were enabled to elect the President of the United States. 3. In December, 1884, the " World's Industrial and Cot- ton Centennial Exposition" was opened at New Orleans. It was conducted under the auspices of the United States, the National Cotton Planters' Association of America, and the City of New Orleans. Mr. F. S. Morehead, President of the National Cotton Planters' Association and editor of the Planters' Journal, published at Vicksburg, was one of the leaders in the inauguration of this great enterprise. 4. A liberal appropriation was made by the Legislature of Mississippi for the representation of the State at the exhibi- tion. Commissioners were appointed to preside over the various departments, and the result was a display of the productions of Mississippi that was highly gratifying to State pride. ''Mississippi Day" was observed during the con- tinuance of the Exposition with appropriate ceremonies. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 247 Addresses were delivered by the Governor and Lieutenant- Governor of the State in the presence of thousands of her own citizens and those of other States. 5. The members of Congress elected from Mississippi on the 4th of November, 1884, were John M. Allen, James B. Morgan, Thomas C. Catchings, F. G. Barry, O. R. Single- ton, H. S. Van Eaton, and Ethelbert Barksdale. Major Barksdale had long been prominently identified with the public interests of the State by his editorial connection with its leading newspapers, first the Mississippian and afterward the Clarion, both published at Jackson. The Clarion, for a long time the organ of the State administration, is one of the most vigorous and successful papers in the South. The present editor, Colonel J. L. Power, is widely known for his philanthropy and public spirit. 6. On the 4th of March, Grover Cleveland was inaugu- rated President of the United States of America. In the selection of his Cabinet, L. Q. C. Lamar, then representing Mississippi in the Senate of the United States, was placed at the head of the Department of the Interior. The death of Hon. Jacob Thompson, who had been Sec- retary of the Interior during Buchanan's administration, occurred in the spring of 1885. 7. On the 4th of March, 1885, General E. C. Walthall succeeded Mr. Lamar in the Senate of the United States. General Walthall, as an officer of rare bravery and ability, had served the varying fortunes of the Confederacy through- out the entire four years of the war. At the battle of Fishing creek, on the 10th of January, 1862, as Lieutenant- Colonel of the Fifteenth Mississippi regiment, he achieved an enviable reputation. The brave Fifteenth, with a Tennessee regiment, led the attack on the enemy, driving them again and again from their entrenchments. Out of four hundred men engaged in this battle, Colonel Walthall's regiment lost two hundred and twenty-four. In 1862, he was elected 248 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Colonel of the Twenty-ninth regiment, and was afterward promoted for gallantry of conduct, holding at the close of the war the rank of Major-General. 8. On the 23d of July, 1885, General U. S. Grant died at Mt. McGregor, New York. The Democratic State Convention met in Jackson on the 19th of August, 1885. Great unanimity prevailed among the members of this convention. Governor Lowry and Lieutenant-Governor Shands were renominated by acclamation. Governor Shands, although a young man, has gained an enviable dis- tinction as a statesman and patriotic citizen, and doubtless the future annals of the State will be adorned with his name and achievements. George M. Govan was nominated for the office of Secretary of State ; W. L. Hemingway, for Treasurer ; W.W. Stone, Auditor ; T. Marshall Miller, Attor- ney-General, and J. R. Preston, Superintendent of Public Instruction. 9. The platform of the Democratic Conservative Conven- tion of 1877 and 1881 was reaffirmed by this Convention. Its declaration of principles is as follows : First: Fidelity to the Constitution of the United States. Second: Home rule and the preservation of the State Gov- ments, with all their reserved and guaranteed rights unim- paired. Third: No interference by the military power with the freedom of elections, and with the civil and political rights of citizens of the United States. Fourth: The protection of the equal rights of all classes and the prompt, vigorous, and impartial administration of the criminal laws, and to this end we exhort judges, peace officers and jurors — grand and petit — to vigilance, fidelity, and promptness. Fifth: No discrimination on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude or birth-place, and no special HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPr AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 249 legislation for the benefit of the few at the expense of the many. Sixth: A strict adherence in the selection of public agents to the time-honored Jeffersonian standard, "Is he honest, is he capable, is he true to the Constitution ? " Seventh: A continuation of the policy of retrenchment and reform so signally inaugurated by the Democratic party. Eighth: Reduction of the burthen of taxation to the lowest point compatible with an efficient execution of the law. Ninth: Corporations of every description supervisable, within constitutional limits, by State authority and subordi- nate to State legislation, in the interest and for the protec- tion of the people. Tenth: As the perpetuity of free government depends upon the virtue and intelligence of the people, we pledge ourselves to the maintenance of our State system of free schools. Eleventh: We favor the granting of such aid as may be extended without violation of the Constitution of the United States, or departing from the established usages of the Gov- ernment, to the rebuilding and keeping in repair of the levees of the Mississippi river. Twelfth: That upon this platform of principles and of public policy, we invite the co-operation of all citizens, with- out regard to past differences, in support of the candidates nominated by this Convention. Thirteenth: That we declare it to be the policy of the Democratic-Conservative party to encourage the flow of immigration to this State, and recommend the passage of all needful laws and the making of all necessary appropriations to effect this end. Fourteenth: That we invite the investment of capital, and assure it all necessary legal protection. io. The Republican Executive Committee met in Jackson 250 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. this year, but in view of the entire unanimity among mem- bers of the Democratic party, decided to place no ticket in the field. The platform of the State Convention was adopted by the county conventions of the Democratic party, and in November, 1885, the party gained a sweeping vic- tory, electing the entire ticket, nearly all the members of the Legislature, and, with very few exceptions, the county officers. The election passed off quietly, peace and order prevailing at the polls. 11. The opening of the Industrial Institute and College for girls occurred in the fall of 1885, marking an era in the history of education for women in Mississippi. Over three hundred girls entered the school at the beginning of the first session. 12. Thursday, the 26th of November, 1885, was very generally observed in Mississippi as a National Thanks- giving Day, in accordance with proclamations issued both by the President of the United States and the Governors of the States. In the midst of the general rejoicing in all portions of the Union, the sad intelligence of the death of Vice-President Hendricks, at his home in Indianapolis, flashed over the wires. His death was sudden and unex- pected. He was buried in Indianapolis with fitting honors. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLI. Where did the National Democratic Convention of Mississippi meet in 1884? Its nominees ? The Republican Convention of the same year and its nominees? Results of the election? What of the World's In- dustrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition of this year? Appropria- tion by the Legislature of Mississippi ? Members of Congress from Mississippi elected this year? Major Barksdale? The Clarion? Colonel J. L. Power? Inauguration of President Cleveland? To what place in his Cabinet was Mr. Lamar elected? Death of Jacob Thompson? Who was Lamar's successor in the United States Senate? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 251 Sketch of General Walthall ? When did the death of General U. S. Grant occur ? Meeting of the Democratic State Convention ? Re-nom- ination of Governor Lowry? Lieutenant-Governor Shands? Other State officers? What platform was re-adopted by this Convention! Give the main points in its declaration of principles? Why did the Republicans decide to put no ticket in the field this year? Opening oi the Industrial Institute and College? What does it mark in the history of the State? Death of Vice-President Hendricks? 252 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XLII. 1886-1887. 1. The Legislature of Mississippi met in January, 1886. The most important enactments of this session were changes made in the existing School Law and the adoption of a Local Option Law, compelling each county to decide by a popular vote whether or not the sale of intoxicating liquors, as a beverage, should be prohibited. The adoption of the Local Option Law and its subsequent enforcement in many counties of the State have given very general satisfaction. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union of Mississippi, a branch of the National W. C. T. U., organized by Miss Frances E. Willard, held its first annual convention in Sep- tember, 1886, in the Hall of Representatives, State House, Jackson. 2. The agitation of the "Convict Lease System," about this time, resulted in the awakening of public opinion to a sense of the enormities practiced upon the unfortunate crimi- nals condemned to undergo penal servitude. 3. The Public School System of Mississippi is unsurpassed by that of any other State in the Union. Some of its essential features are : A Superintendent of Public Educa- tion,' who is elected at the same time and in the same man- ner as the Governor of the State. Holding his office four years, he has the general supervision of the common schools and the educational interests of the State. A State Board of Education consists of the Secretary of State, the Attorney- General, and the Superintendent of Public Education. 4. A Superintendent of Public Education in each county is appointed by the State Board of Education, by and with the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 253 consent of the Senate, for a term of two years. A public school or schools must be maintained in each school district for at least four months in each year. Each school district must contain twelve square miles and forty-five educable children. Institutes for the improvement of teachers, under the direction of the State Superintendent, must be held monthly in each district. 5. The Common School Fund arises from the proceeds of lands belonging to the State, lands forfeited for taxes, the proceeds of all fines collected for any breach of the penal laws, and all moneys received for licenses granted under the laws of the State for the sale of intoxicating liquors, for all moneys paid as an exemption from military duties, all funds arising from the consolidation of the Congressional township funds, and the lands belonging thereto, together with all moneys donated for school purposes. The leasing of the " sixteenth section school lands," and the interest of the "Chickasaw" school fund, form an important part of the amount distributed each year to the common schools of the State. The Chickasaw school fund, however, is distributed only in the Chickasaw counties. An incorporated town of seven hundred and fifty or more inhabitants constitutes a separate school district. 6. The law requires that the funds for the support of the common schools shall be collected in the legal currency of the United States and paid into the treasury, to be distrib- uted pro rata among the educable children of the State. The Legislature is also empowered to levy a poll tax, not exceed- ing two dollars a head, in aid of the school fund. All chil- dren between the ages of five and twenty-one years are entitled to the benefit of the public schools. 7. The autumn of 1887 found the people of Mississippi in a prosperous condition, evidenced by the rapid development of the resources of every section of the State. The labor system was each year becoming more adapted to the condi- 254 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. tions existing in the State ; the crops were more diversified ; stock-raising and kindred pursuits were assuming prominent importance in the agricultural world, and lands which had heretofore found only limited sale, were now attracting attention on account of their timber and agricultural value. Seekers for new homes were attracted by the fine resources of the State, and capital poured in from every direction. 8. The credit of the State improved rapidly, and evidences of prosperity and improvement were seen on every hand. The negroes of the State, contented and happy, showed no disposition to leave the good old cotton State, the land which had given them birth and which repaid their efforts in such generous proportions. 9. In October, 1887, the enthusiasm of the people of the South was aroused in an unparalleled manner by a visit from President Cleveland, his wife, and members of his Cabinet. Though Mississippi had not the honor of receiving them on her own soil, a large number of her citizens participated in the welcome accorded them by other States. The President and party reached Memphis, Tennessee, on the 14th of October, 1887, and on the following day, October 15th, an event occurred which cast a gloom over the Presidential party, over the assembled thousands, and particularly over the hearts of all Mississippians present. This was the sudden death of Judge Henry T. Ellett, formerly a citizen of Mississippi, and endeared to her people by a thousand ties. He died while in the act of delivering, in behalf of the people of the South, a most eloquent address of welcome to the President of the United States. 10. Henry T. Ellett was born in New Jersey, and gradu- ated with distinction from Princeton, in that State. After having obtained license to practice law, he removed to Mississippi, where he spent the best years of his life. He was the contemporary of Sharkey, Prentiss, Clarke, and Quitman, and during his long and eventful life represented HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 255 Mississippi in the State Senate, on the Supreme Bench, and in the Congress of the United States. At the commence- ment of the Civil war he was offered a seat in the Confed- erate Cabinet by President Davis, but, preferring private life, declined. At the close of the war, being unwilling to JUDGE HENRY T. ELLETT. take the infamous "Test Oath" required by the military governor of Mississippi, he removed to Memphis, Tennessee, where he spent the remainder of an honored and useful life. At the time of his death he was Chancellor of the district in which he lived. Public meetings were held in every portion of Mississippi, expressing sorrow at the death of Judge Ellett and passing resolutions of respect to his memory. ii. While Mr. Cleveland was making his triumphal tour over this great country, Jefferson Davis, ex-President of the Confederacy, was revisiting some of the scenes of his 256 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. former triumphs. At the request of Confederate veterans, he attended a review at Macon, Georgia, on the 26th of October, 1887. As this was probably the last appearance of the " Sage of Beauvoir," the following account of the remarkable scene that transpired is copied from the tele- graphic reports : 12. " The especial feature of the celebration at Macon was the review of Confederate veterans by their old President. Mr. Davis, with his family and a number of distinguished Georgians, was sitting on a porch overlooking the vast grounds at Mulberry Hill when the procession wheeled into the front carriage gate, intending to pass close by Mr. Davis and out at the rear gate, but the crowd had soon swarmed over the fence and filled the entire front lawn completely full. Every man was struggling to push nearer to the porch, and every voice was straining to be heard above every other voice, shouting, ' Hurrah for Jeff. Davis ! ' The arrangements that had been made for reviewing the veterans could not be carried out. What the crowd wanted to see was Jeff. Davis himself, touch him, if possible, and prostrate itself at his feet. The old veterans broke ranks and began climbing upon the porch. The policemen tried to pull them down, but they shouted that ' all the policemen in Georgia could not keep them from shaking hands with Jeff. Davis.' " 13. Mr. Davis, whose seventy-nine years have left him in a very feeble state, made desperate efforts to shake hands over the porch railing with everybody whom he could reach. Long-haired, unkempt veterans crawled right up on the shoulders of the men in front of them, regardless of every- thing but their purpose of shaking hands with Jeff. Davis. But the enthusiasm was at its height when somebody handed the ragged battle-flag of the Third Georgia regiment over the heads of the crowd. Mr. Davis grasped the tatters of the flag and pressed them to his lips. This was the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 257 signal for the most violent breaking forth. The air was full of such expressions as "God bless Jeff. Davis," "God bless the old flag," and kindred sentiments. The old Confederate President waved the battle-torn sign over the heads of the people, who applauded madly and cried like so many children. When the flag was handed back to the multitude, the men snatched all the available tatters and pressed them warmly to their lips. Soon Mr. Davis arose, and, facing the people, said : " Friends and brothers, I am like that old flag, tattered and torn by storms and years. I love it for its own sake and for yours. I love it as a memento of what your fathers did, and what they hoped you would do." This leave-taking of an honored chief by the men who fought and bled for the " Lost Cause " has no parallel in history. Jefferson Davis embracing the tattered flag that had so often led onward to victory, was dearer to the hearts of his countrymen than when he stood at the head of the proud Confederacy. No Mississippian can contemplate without emotion the Last Farewell of Jefferson Davis. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLII. What were the most important enactments of the Legislature of 1886? What of the Local Option Law? The Woman's Christian Temperance Union ? The agitation of the " ConvicfLease system ? " The Public School system of the State? What of the State Board of Education ? County Superintendents ? School districts ? The Com- mon School fund? The "Sixteenth Section" and the "Chickasaw School fund?" Separate School Districts? Collection of Common School funds? Close of the year 1887? The labor system of the State? Immigration to the State? The credit of the State? The Negroes? What of President Cleveland's visit to the South in 1887? His reception in Memphis? Sudden death of Judge Henry T. Ellett? Sketch of his life? What of the travels of Mr. Davis through some of the Southern States? The review at Macon, Georgia? Especial features of the celebration? Describe the scene that ensued as the Confederate veterans caught sight of Jefferson Davis. 258 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XLIII. 1888-1890. 1. By the year 1888, that large and respectable associa- tion, known as the "Farmers' Alliance," had assumed immense proportions, for with all that had hitherto been done for them by the State, there was still a feeling of dissatisfaction among the farmers of Mississippi, the class that constitutes the very bone and sinew of our State. County and neighborhood alliances sprang into existence all over the State. The Alliance of Mississippi, as a body, eschews politics, and has thus far affiliated harmoniously with the Democratic party. 2. In 1888 began the great political campaign in which the election of a President of our great nation was involved. The administration of Mr. Cleveland, the first Democratic President since the war, had been eminently satisfactory to his own party, and, indeed, to the country at large, with the exception, of course, of disappointed politicians. His entire administration was in consonance with the memorable words in which he summed up his opinion, "Public office is a public trust." 3. During the summer of 1888, the Democrats re-nomi- nated President Crover Cleveland to be his own successor, placing with him on the ticket, for the office of Vice-Presi- dent, that time-honored veteran, Allen G. Thurman, of Ohio. The candidates for the Republican party were : For President, Benjamin Harrison, of Indiana, a grandson of William Henry Harrison, a former President of the United States; for Vice-President, Levi P. Morton, of New York. The chief issue in this campaign was the "tariff," and it has been called the "educational campaign," from the fact that HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 259 the American people had been taught to consider the great questions affecting their welfare, as wages, profits, con- sumption, exchange, and other subjects, in which the inhab- itants of a great industrial and commercial nation held vital interests. 4. The party of which Mr. Cleveland was the exponent took the position that the tariff was a tax, and that the accumulation of a surplus of money in the Government treasury was evidence that the people were being unneces- sarily taxed, and that a reduction of the tariff was best for the business interests of the country. The Republican party opposed any reduction that would interfere with the protective features of the existing tariff. The election in November demonstrated the fact that the friends of protec- tion had greatly increased in numbers and were more widely distributed than when the tariff first became a vital issue in politics. Harrison and Morton were elected. 5. During the first years of Mr. Harrison's administration a number of occurrences worthy of mention transpired. Four new States were admitted to the Union. These were North and South Dakota, Washington, and Montana, all in the far North-west. The "Samoan Controversy," which was settled creditably to the United States, and the opening of Oklahoma in the United States, occurred in 1889. On the 30th of April, in that year, the one hundredth anni- versary of Washington's inauguration as President was celebrated in New York, with great pomp and ceremony. In the same year, that terrible disaster, known as the "Johnstown Flood," occurred. In this terrible disaster, thousands of lives and millions of dollars' worth of property were destroyed. 6. In December, 1889, an event occurred that threw a cloud of sorrow over the entire South, and especially over the people of Mississippi. This was the death of Jefferson Davis ex-President of the Confederacy, the melancholy 260 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. event occurring in New Orleans on the 6th of December, 1889. Although the death of one at such an advanced age was not unexpected, the intelligence sent a thrill of pain to every Southern heart. The funeral services, which occurred on the nth of December, were very imposing, every State in the South, perhaps, sending representative citizens to witness the solemn and impressive ceremonies attendant on the funeral of the dead chieftian of the "Lost Cause." In nearly every town and hamlet in Mississippi funeral ceremonies were held on the same day, and the sobs and sighs of the attendant audiences testified to the love borne by a whole people for their dead leader. It was hoped that the body of Jefferson Davis would find a permanent resting- place in the soil of Mississippi, the State which had conferred upon him the highest honors within the gift of a grateful people. Richmond, Virginia, however, having been selected by the family of Mr. Davis as the most suitable place, in their opinion, for his tomb, the people of Mississippi must be content to have his memory entombed within their heart of hearts. 7. In 1887, General James Z. George was re-elected to the United States Senate, his term of six years having just expired. General E. C. Walthall, in 1885, was appointed by Governor Lowry to succeed Senator L. Q. C. Lamar, who had been first appointed Secretary of the Interior in President Cleveland's Cabinet, and afterward as Associate Justice on the Supreme Bench of the United States. The appointment of General Walthall was ratified by the Legislature, and he was, at the same session, unanimously elected to fill out the unexpired term of Senator Lamar. In January, 1888, General Walthall was re-elected by the Legislature for the full term of six years. 8. As has been said, Mississippi has the most efficient Public School Law of any State in the Union. Under the present Superintendent of Public Education, Hon. J. R. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 201 Preston, there has been a remarkable improvement in the educational system of the State. There has been not only a marked increase in the enrollment of pupils and in the number of schools, but the entire educational interests of the State have been lifted to a higher plane> with new life and vigor infused therein. Mr. Preston is, in every sense of the word, a benefactor to both races residing in Mississippi. 9. In 1888-89, there were in Mississippi thirty-four sepa- rate school districts, and the number of educable children therein, of both races, was 35,151, of which number 18,714 were whites and 16,437 colored. There were 382 teachers employed in separate school districts, of which 233 were white, with average salaries of $51.84, and 149 colored, with average salaries of $31.73. Eight hundred and twenty-six school houses were built in 1888-89, the amount expended for the same approximating over $300,000. During those two years there were erected in the principal towns in the State new, commodious, and beautiful buildings, at an aggre- gate cost of $190,000. 10. With Mr. Preston's administration of school affairs a new arm of the educational service was added, in the form of Monthly Institutes, in which teachers may study and qualify themselves for more efficient work in the school- room. In November, 1889, the election for Governor and other State officers took place. After an administration of eight years, Governor Lowry retired from office, and was suc- ceeded by Governor John M. Stone, a former encumbent of the office and a fit representative of the masses of the people who elected him. His inauguration took place January 1, 1890. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLIII. What of the organization and growth of the Farmers' Alliance? County and neighborhood Alliances ? The State Alliance ? Presidential 262 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. campaign of 1888 ? Democratic administration? Motto of Mr. Cleve- land ? Renomination of Mr. Cleveland? Nominee for Vice-President on the same ticket? Candidates of the Republican party ? What was the principal issue of this campaign ? Why called the educational campaign ? What position did the Democratic party take on the tariff? Of the Republicans? Which party was successful? First years of Mr. Harrison's administration ? What four new States were admitted into the Union about this time? What of the " Samoan Controversy ? " The opening up of Oklahoma? The centennial of Washington's inauguration ? The Johnstown flood ? When and where did the death of Jefferson Davis occur ? What of the funeral services ? How was the melancholy event observed in Mississippi ? What place has been chosen as the final burial place of Jefferson Davis? Re-election of Senator George ? Who was elected to fill out the unexpired term of Senator Lamar? When was General Walthall elected for the full term of six years? What of the present School Law of Mississippi? Hon. J. R. Preston ? Some school statistics of 1888-89? Monthly Institutes? What of the election of 1889? Inauguration of Governor Stone? ,^<«^>i^-"' HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 263 CHAPTER XLIV. 1. The State of Mississippi extends three hundred and thirty-one miles north and south, by one hundred and eighteen miles east and west. It contains 46,810 square miles. Its general surface is undulating, or hilly, with the highest ridges in the extreme north-east. There are four nearly level regions : The Mississippi or Yazoo bottom in the north-west ; the north-east prairie region, stretching along the Alabama State line; the central prairie region, extending south of east from Vicksburg ; the coast plain, about forty miles wide, in the south-east. The water-shed between the waters flowing directly into the Gulf of Mexico, or Lake Pontchartrain, and those flowing into the Mississippi river, conforms nearly with the diagonal of the State from north-east to south-west. 2. The Mississippi river forms the western boundary of the State, winding through a course of five hundred and fourteen miles, or about half that. distance in a straight line. The Mississippi valley lies below the high-water mark, and has to be protected from inundation, in times of floods, by embankments or levees built along its banks. When the pressure of the water creates a gap in the levee, the waters rush through with great violence, carrying everything before them, and sometimes giving the inhabitants barely time to escape with their lives. When these waters spread out over the bottom lands and lose their rapid currents, the mud with which they are charged is deposited upon the lands as a coating of rich alluvium. Repeated deposits of this kind have formed a large portion of the bottom soil. 3. The Yazoo river is the principal tributary of the Mississippi within the State, draining about two-sevenths of 264 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. its area, or 13,850 square miles. It rises in the northern part of the State, its head-waters being Coldwater, Talla- hatchie, and Yalobusha rivers. Sunflower river is a western tributary of the Yazoo, and traverses Sunflower, Washing- ton, and Sharkey counties. 4. Big Black river and Bayou Pierre, collectively, drain about one-seventh of the State (sixty-seven hundred square miles). The former is navigable for sixty miles above its mouth, the latter to Port Gibson. Tennessee river borders the north-eastern corner of the State for about ten miles. It is navigable, and drains but four hundred and fifty square miles of the State. 5. Tombigbee, Pascagoula, and Pearl rivers drain almost one-half the State to the Gulf of Mexico. The Tombigbee is navigable to Columbus, and at some seasons to Aberdeen. The Pascagoula and its tributaries are used to float logs down to the saw-mills. The Pearl is a long but shallow river. 6. The Lakes: The washing away of the neck in a bend of the Mississippi river forms a " cut-off," which soon becomes the channel of the river. The entrances to the old bed gradually fill up, thus forming one of the many crescent-shaped lakes found in the bottom plain. These lakes are nothing but portions of the old river-bed, though sometimes miles away from the present channel, and they show how often the shifting of a channel has occurred in the past. 7. The sea-coast of Mississippi is but eighty miles in extent, and is fringed about ten miles from the shoals with a chain of low, sandy islands. The sheet of water thus enclosed is called Mississippi Sound, which affords a safe anchorage for large sea-going vessels, especially inside of Ship Island, while the bays at the mouth of the larger rivers form harbors for smaller vessels engaged in the coasting and lumber trade. HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 265 8. Climate: The climate is mild and generally healthful ; snow seldom lies on the ground more than a few days in winter, while the summers k though long, are not oppres- sively hot. The mean annual temperature varies from sixty- three degrees in the north, to seventy degrees in the south. The rainfall is very abundant, ranging from forty-six inches in the north, to sixty-six inches in the south. About two- thirds of the amount of rain falls in the spring and winter. The prevailing winds are from the "south and south-west. In winter, cold winds from the north-west are not infrequent in the Mississippi bottom. 9. Vegetation: Aside from the limited prairie belts, the State is wholly a forest country. In the northern half the predominating trees are oaks of various kinds. The sandy ridges are occupied by blackjack and post-oaks and short- leaf pine, the latter yielding the chief supply of timber for building purposes. Where the soil is fertile, the walnut and tulip trees are found. 10. Valuable forests of long-leaf pine cover the southern half of the State. These forests yield immense quantities of lumber, ship timber, and turpentine. The river bottoms throughout the State bear lowland oaks, hickory, gum, ash, tulip tree, and in the southern part magnolia. The swamps are occupied by a dense growth of cypress and tupelo. On the banks of the Mississippi are great numbers of cotton- wood and willow trees. 11. Cotton, corn, and sweet potatoes have long been the staple agricultural productions, the first being produced for export and the others for home consumption. Wheat, oats, peas, beans, sorghum, tobacco, and potatoes are also produced, and of late, attention has been paid to hay and grass crops. In the southern part of the State, rice and sugar-cane are grown. Mississippi raises more cotton than any other State in the Union — usually more than one- sixth of the entire crop. Most of the cotton is raised in the 266 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. northern half of the State, especially along the Mississippi river and in the valley of the Tombigbee. The manufacture of cotton-seed oil \s a growing industry and adds greatly to the value of the cotton crop. Large quantities of pine lum- ber, turpentine, rosin, and tar are manufactured in the southern part of the State. 12. Fruit trees thrive well in Mississippi. Apples, peaches, pears, plums, apricots, grapes, berries, and melons are raised in the northern, and oranges, lemons, and other semi-tropical fruits in the southern part. Stock is raised for home use, the pine forests of the south affording a fine pasturage and sheep range. Lignite, or brown coal, is found in Northern Mississippi, and affords fuel adapted to ordinary demands. Excellent limestone for building, or making lime and cement, occurs in the north-east, where valuable marls for fertilizers are found. Mineral springs of various kinds are very abundant. 13. The most important of the manufacturing industries is the making of cotton cloth and the sawing of lumber. Much lumber is exported to South America, Europe, and the West Indies, from the long-leaf pine regions. Cotton and lumber are the chief commodities which Mississippi con- tributes to the world's commerce. In return she receives food supplies and manufactures. Two thousand miles of railroad and the navigable rivers by which the State is traversed or bordered, facilitate the exchange. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLIV. Situation of Mississippi by length and breadth ? Number of square miles? Its general surface ? The four regions? Its western boundary ? Levees of the river? Overflows? Formation of alluvial soil ? The Yazoo river? Big Black and Bayou Pierre? The Tennessee river? Tombigbee, Pascagoula, and Pearl rivers? What of the lakes? Describe the sea-coast of Mississippi. Mississippi Sound ? Climate HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 267 of the State? Vegetation? Long-leaf pines? Growth of the river- bottom countries? What are the staple agricultural productions of the State? Cotton? Best cotton-producing portion? Cotton-seed oil? What does the southern portion of the State produce in large quantities? Fruittrees? Stock? Lignite? Limestone? Mineral springs? What are the most important manufacturing industries? Chief exports? Imports? 268 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER XLV. i 890- i 892. 1. By the census of 1890, Mississippi had a population of 1,289,600, an increase over that of 1880 of 158,003, or 13.96 per cent. Since 1880, Pearl River county has been organized from parts of Hancock and Marion counties. The name of Sumner county has been changed to Webster. Of the seventy-five counties in the State, eleven show decreases. These seventy -five counties average six hundred and twenty- eight square miles each in area. Each county is divided into five supervisors' districts, and these may be sub-divided into election precincts. A sheriff, coroner, treasurer, assessor, and surveyor are elected in each county every two years. 2. Position: At the close of the Revolution, in 1783, Eng- land ceded to Spain the territory south, and to the United States the territory north, of thirty-one degrees of latitude. In 1798, the region bounded by the Mississippi, the Chatta- hoochee, the parallel of thirty-one degrees, and a line drawn east from the mouth of the Yazoo, was organized as Missis- sippi Territory. In 1804, its limits were extended north- ward to the Tennessee State line, and, in 18 12, southward, between Pearl and Perdido rivers, to the coast. 3. In 1868, a Constitutional Convention met in the city of Jackson and adopted a Constitution, which was ratified by the people in December, 1869. Some of its most important provisions are as follows : No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property except by due process of law. The freedom of speech and of the press shall be held sacred, and in all indictments for libel the jury shall deter- mine the law and the facts under the direction of the 'court. The writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended. The HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 269 right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate. Slavery is forever prohibited. There shall be no imprisonment for debt. The people shall have the right to keep and bear arms. 4. In all criminal prosecutions the accused shall have a right to be heard. Cruel or unusual punishment shall not be inflicted, nor shall excessive fines be imposed. No prop- erty qualification for eligibility to office shall ever be required. The right to withdraw from the Federal Union, on account of any real or supposed grievance, shall never be assumed. The military shall be in strict subordination to the civil power. Dueling is prohibited. Rights of married women protected. The limits and boundaries of the State must remain as established by law. 5. Elective Franchise: All elections by the people shall be by ballot. All male inhabitants of the State, except idiots and insane persons and Indians not taxed, citizens of the United States, or naturalized, twenty-one years old and upward, who have resided in the State six months and in the county one month next preceding the day of election, duly registered and not disqualified by crime, are declared to be qualified electors. 6. Legislative Power: The legislative power is vested in the Legislature, which consists of two houses, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The number of Senators is apportioned according to the number of qualified electors in the several districts ; must never be less than one-fourth, nor more than one-third, of the whole number of Representa- tives. The number of Representatives shall be apportioned among the several counties, or districts, according to the number of qualified electors in each, and shall not be less than one hundred, nor more than one hundred and twenty. The members of the House of Representatives are elected every two years, those of the Senate every four years. 7. The sessions of the Legislature are biennial, beginning 270 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. on the first Tuesday in January. The Senate is presided over by a president, and the House of Representatives by a speaker, elected from the members. The Legislature has the sole power of making laws. Every bill, before it becomes a law, must be read on three different days in each house, and then receive a majority vote of the members and be approved by the Governor. In case the Governor vetoes or disapproves a bill, it requires a two-thirds vote to make it a law. Members of the Legislature receive four hundred dollars compensation for attendance on each regular session, with ten cents mileage. 8. Executive Power : The officers of the Executive Depart- ment are the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, Secretary of State," Attorney-General, and Treasurer. The Executive power is vested in the Governor, elected every four years, with a salary of $4,000. He must be thirty years of age, a citizen of the United States for twenty years and of the State for two years. In case of the death of the Governor, the Lieutenant-Governor occupies his office. The Governor is also the commander-in-chief of the army and navy of the State and of the militia. He has the power of granting par- dons, except for treason and in cases of impeachment, and of recommending to the Legislature such measures as he may deem necessary and expedient. 9. Judiciary Power: The judicial power of the State is vested in a Supreme Court, and Courts of Law and Equity. The Supreme Court consists of three judges, who are appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate. The term of office of the judges of the Supreme Court is nine years. The Supreme Court is held twice a year at the capital of the State, as the Legislature may prescribe. The judges of the Circuit Court are appointed by the Governor, for a term of six years. This Court sits twice a year in each county. The judges of the Chancery Court are appointed in the same manner as the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 271 circuit judges. The State is divided into a number of chancery districts, composed of several counties each. The judges of this Court hold their offices for four years. 10. A Board of Supervisors, consisting of five members, elected by the people, for a term of two years, has jurisdic- tion over roads, ferries, public buildings, etc. A competent number of justices of the peace and consta- bles are chosen by the people of each county, for a term of two years. 11. Taxation can be levied by the Legislature for support of State government, for educational purposes, to suppress insurrection, repel invasion, etc. Education: The Constitu- tion provides for a uniform system of free public schools, provided for by taxation or otherwise, for all children between the ages of five and twenty-one years. In 1886, the appropriation for the common school fund amounted to $290,875.87, supplemented by $71,825 from the Chicka- saw school fund. An appropriation of $32,643 was made during the same year to the State University; $25,000 to the Agricultural and Mechanical College, at Stark- ville; about $30,000 to the Industrial Institute and College, at Columbus; $3,000 to the Tongaloo University, and $5,321.25 to Alcorn University. The last two institutions named are for the benefit of colored students. 12. Besides the public schools in every county, there are numerous colleges, high schools and elementary private schools. The average school term in the State public schools is four months ; in private schools, eight to ten months ; in local public schools, six to eight months. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLV. What was the population of Mississippi in 1890 ? What county was organized from 1880 to 1890? Change of name? How is each county sub-divided? Define the position of Mississippi? What of the Con- 272 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. stitutional Convention of 1868 ? Name some of its most important pro- visions? Mention the clause relating to the Elective Franchise? The Legislative Power ? How often are the sessions of the Legislature held ? Is it the sole law-making power? What must be done before a bill becomes a law? What in case the Governor vetoes or disapproves a bill? Give the clause relating to the Executive Power? The Judiciary? Hoards of Supervisors ? By what body is taxation levied? Educational system ? Schools not under the public patronage? Average length of term ? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 273 CHAPTER XLVI. i 890- i 892. 1. The Legislature which met in January, 1890, passed an Act to provide for the calling of a convention to amend the Constitution of the State of Mississippi. While in many respects the Constitution of 1868 was an excellent One, it was felt by the people of Mississippi that it had its defects, and that in the future the State was menaced by dangers arising out of one of the greatest problems of the Nineteenth century — the race question — as exhibited in the South, and especially in our own State. This fact, as stated by Judge Calhoon, President of the Convention, at the beginning of the session, August, 1890, had assumed colossal proportions, which could not be obscured by the clouds of maudlin sentiment or false philosophy. The fact can not be argued away, or speculated upon ; it will remain in spite of all discussion, of all criticism from outside parties ; in spite of all reflections made by ourselves, that there exists in this State two distinct and opposite types of mankind, and that the question before the Convention, most nearly concerning the peace and happiness of both races, was how it might be arranged that they should live together harmoniously. There were, of course, other important questions to be brought before the Convention, but the main fact was the determining of the governmental agencies which should con- trol the State in the future. 2. The Constitutional Convention of 1890, met in the Hall of Representatives, State House, Jackson, on the 12th of August. As has been said, the securing of a more enlightened elective franchise, without race discriminations or injustice, occupied the time of the Convention to a larger 13 274 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. extent than any other measure. Many of the people of the State doubted the wisdom of calling together this Conven- tion, feeling, perhaps, that it were better to "bear the ills we have, than fly to others that we know not of." As the movement was ratified by the majority of the voters of the State, however, the delegates assembled in obedience to the popular call, the best and most patriotic motives actuating them throughout. Whether the united wisdom of the members of the Con- vention succeeded in solving the important " race problem " is a question that the future only can decide. While few organic changes were made in the Constitution, some important amendments were made by the Convention, which adjourned November i, 1890. The Constitution of the State, as amended by this Convention, will be found in the "Civil Government" supplement, which, it is earnestly hoped, will be studied carefully by the pupils of our excellent public schools. 3. We will now give some important statistics, as gathered from the Census Bulletins of 1890. The relative rate of increase of the white and colored population of the Southern States during the last decade is a matter of such general interest and importance as to demand special attention. What is termed the "race count " has therefore been made for the South Atlantic and South Central States, and that for the State of Mississippi is here given in the hope of its proving of general interest. The abnormal increase of the colored population in what is known as the " Black Belt" of the South during the decade ending in 1880, led to the popular belief that the negroes were increasing at a much greater rate than the white population. This error was a natural one, and arose from the difficulty of ascertaining how much of the increase shown by the tenth census was real and how much was due to the omission of the census of 1870. During the past decade, according to the census HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT 275 returns, the colored race has not held its own against the white in a region where the climate and conditions are, of all those which the country affords, the best suited to its development. In Mississippi and Alabama alone, of all the Southern States, have the blacks increased in proportion to the whites, and this has been caused by the very large immigration from the worn-out lands of the border States to the fertile cotton fields of the two States mentioned. The Delta, and other river-bottom lands, have attracted large numbers of blacks to Mississippi. While a large proportion of them are ignorant and illiterate, they, in the main, are quiet and orderly, and thrive and prosper under conditions which would not be endurable for white laborers. 4. The total area in Mississippi devcted to the cultivation of cotton in 1889-90 was 2,882,499 acres, and the produc- tion of cotton, 1,154,406 bales. Washington county had the largest average in cotton in 1889-90, and also the largest production. According to the report furnished by Hon. J. R. Preston, State Superintendent of Public Schools of Mississippi, there were, in 1890, 361,977 pupils enrolled in the public schools of the State. Of these, 150,968 are white and 183,200 black. The total number of white teachers is 7,490 ; of black, 3,221. In the private schools of the State there are 24,312 pupils, of whom 21,769 are white and 2,543 blacks. In parochial schools there are 2,197 pupils, of whom 1,929 are white and 268 black. In the normal schools and universities of the State there are 1,300 students, of whom 888 are white and 412 black. 5. In the second session of the Forty-ninth Congress, Mississippi was represented in the lower house of the National Legislature by John M. Allen, Ethelbert Barksdale, F. G. Barry, Thos. C. Catchings, James B. Morgan, Otho R. Singleton, and Henry S. Van Eaton. In the Fiftieth Congress she was represented by John M, Allen, F, G. 276 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Barry, T. C. Catchings, Charles E. Hooker, J. B. Morgan, C. L. Anderson, and Thos. R. Stockdale. In the Fifty-first Congress, John M. Allen, C. L. Anderson, T. C. Catchings, C. E. Hooker, John C. Kyle, Clarke Lewis, and T. R. Stockdale were her representatives. The first session of the Fifty-second Congress adjourned during the summer of 1892. 6. The second session of the Forty-ninth Congress commenced December 6, 1886, and ended March 3, 1887. Mississippi, as has been said, was then represented in the United States Senate by E. C. Walthall and J. Z. George, and has been so represented ever since. General George's first term expired March 4, 1887. He was re-elected for a second term, which will not expire until 1893, and was also re-elected for a third term by the Legislature of 1892. General Walthall was appointed by General Lowry to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Hon. L. Q. C. Lamar, who had resigned to accept the position of Secretary of the Interior in Mr. Cleveland's Cabinet. General Walthall, by this appointment, held until his successor was elected by the Legislature of 1886, for the term expiring March 4, 1889, and was elected to succeed himself, January 19, 1886. At the session of the Legislature of 1888, he was re-elected for six years, his term not expiring until March 4, 1895. The Legislature of 1892 re-elected him for another full term. The election of General Walthall's successor in 1892 was rendered necessary by the new Constitution of 1890, fixing quadrennial instead of biennial sessions of the Legislature. The next regular session will convene in Jan- uary, 1896, after General Walthall's present term expires. Previous to the meeting of the Legislature of 1892, General Walthall announced his intention to retire from public fife, stating that he would not be a candidate for re-election as his own successor. No other name, however, would be accepted by a grateful people, and their choice was signified HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 277 so earnestly, through the columns of the press as well as by their representatives in the Legislature, that General Walthall was induced to reconsider his withdrawal and accept the office, though at the sacrifice of his own wishes. 7. The summer of 1892 saw the inauguration of what promised to be a very exciting political campaign. The Republican party selected as its standard-bearer Benjamin Harrison, President of the United States, with Whitelaw Reid as candidate for the office of Vice-President. The Democratic party, meeting a short time afterward in Chi- cago, nominated ex-President Grover Cleveland for the office of President, with General Adlai Stevenson, of Illinois, as Vice-President. The " People's Party," which met in Omaha soon after, nominated General Weaver for Presi- dent, while the Prohibition party nominated General James Bidwell, of California, for the same office. While a great deal of interest is manifested in the outcome, there is very little bitterness or rancor displayed in the conduct of the campaign, and the personal element in politics is likely to be eradicated. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLVI. When was the Act providing for the calling of a Constitutional Convention passed? What of the Constitution of 1868? What dangers menaced the people of Mississippi ? Who was chosen Presi- dent of the Convention? Give his opening remarks? The main fact brought before the Convention ? When and where did the Convention meet? Were the people of the State unanimous as to the wisdom of calling the Convention? How was the movement ratified? Did the Convention succeed in solving the race question ? How alone can that be determined ? Were many organic changes made in the Constitution ? What was the relative rate of increase of the white and colored popula- tion of the South from 1880 to 1890? What led to the erroneous idea that the blacks were increasing faster than the whites ? What fact is learned from the Census Report in this connection? In what States alone have the whites and blacks increased in the same proportion ? 278 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. Causes of this ? The Delta and other river-bottom lands ? Character of these immigrants ? Total area of cotton lands in the State? County having the largest acreage in cotton ? Public schools in 1890? Uni- versities and normal schools? Representation of Mississippi in the lower house of the Forty-ninth Congress? In the Fiftieth? Fifty- first? Senators from Mississippi ? General George's term ? General Walthall's? What of the presidential campaign of 1892? Nominees of the Republican party? Of the Democratic? What of the " People's " party? The Prohibition party? Conduct of the campaign? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 279 CHAPTER XLVII. CITIES AND TOWNS OF MISSISSIPPI. 1. The State of Mississippi is bounded north by Tennessee, east by Alabama, south by the Gulf of Mexico and Louisiana, and west by Louisiana and Arkansas. 2. The following is a brief description of the principal cities and towns in the State having over 2,000 inhabitants, according to the census of 1890. 3. Jackson, the State capital and the county seat of Hinds county, has a population of 5,920. It is located on the west- ern bank of Pearl river. It is at the junction of trunk rail- way lines running east, west, north, and south. The city is regularly laid out, and contains several handsome public buildings. The Insane Asylum was almost entirely destroyed by fire during the winter of 1891-92. 4. Vicksburg, with a population of 13,373, is the largest city in the State. It is situated on the Mississippi river, just below the mouth of the Yazoo, in Warren county, and is the most important river port between New Orleans and Memphis. Great quantities of cotton are shipped from Vicksburg, principally to New Orleans. 5. Meridian, the county seat of Lauderdale county, is the second city in the State in population, its inhabitants num- bering 10,624. It is an important railroad center, and ships great quantities of cotton, wool and lumber to the North and West. Its manufactures include cotton goods, commercial fertilizers, furniture, sash and blinds, carriages, machinery, pottery, and cotton-seed oil. The State Business College and the East Mississippi Female College furnish excellent educational facilities. It also has five public graded schools. The East Mississippi Insane Asylum is near the city. 280 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 6. Natchez, with a population of 10, 101, is on the Mis- sissippi, 130 miles below Vicksburg. It is the county seat of Adams county, and one of the oldest towns in the Missis- sippi Valley. It is situated on a high bluff on the Mississippi river, commanding an extensive view of the cotton region of Louisiana. It is a beautiful city, handsomely laid out, with broad streets. Many of the residences are surrounded with flower gardens and orange groves. Natchez is a good shipping point for a fine farming section. Its manufactures are steadily increasing in importance. It has excellent public and private schools. 7. Greenville, the county seat of Washington county, is situated on the Mississippi river, and at the terminus of the Georgia Pacific and a branch of the Louisville, New Orleans & Texas Railroad. It is one of the most prosperous cities in the State. The population of Greenville is 6,658. Its graded public schools are excellent. It also has good pri- vate schools. It manufactures iron castings, brick, cotton- seed oil, and ice. It is a leading cotton market in the famous Yazoo Delta region, and ships annually many thousand bales of cotton. 8. Columbus, the capital of Lowndes county, is a thriving city beautifully situated on a high bluff on the Tombigbee river. It is the seat of the Mississippi Industrial Institute and College for girls. It has graded public schools of a high order. The city is an important cotton market, and has manufactories of cotton goods, lumber, machinery, cotton- seed oil, and flour. It has a population of 4,559. 9. Aberdeen, a flourishing city, is situated in Monroe county, in the eastern portion of the State. Its inhabitants are wealthy and cultured, numbering 3,449. The fertile prairies adjacent and the rich Tombigbee valley afford an active trade. The Canton, Aberdeen & Nashville, the Kansas City, Memphis & Birmingham, and the Mobile & Ohio Railroads furnish superior facilities for trade. The HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 281 city has a large trade in cotton. It has excellent graded schools. 10. Yazoo City, on the Yazoo river, in Yazoo county, is situated in one of the finest agricultural regions of the world. It has a population of 3,286, and has a thriving trade, ship- ping large quantities of cotton by river and railroad. The city is handsomely built and has superior graded schools. 11. Biloxi, in Harrison county, is a flourishing town on the Gulf coast, with a population of 3,234. The soft and delightful climate of this region has made Biloxi a favorite winter resort, while the cool breezes from the Gulf make it equally as popular as a summer resort. It is noted as being the location of the first settlement in the State, having been settled by Bienville and De Iberville in 1699. Many of the quaint old houses of the early settlers are still standing, and many of the present residents, being descendants of the early settlers, speak the French language exclusively. 12. Wesson, a prosperous manufacturing town in Copiah county, on the Illinois Central Railroad, has a population of 3,168. The Mississippi Mills, the largest cotton and woolen mills in the State, are located here. The town has good graded schools. 13. Water Valley, in Yalobusha county, is a thriving and progressive manufacturing town. The railroad shops of one division of the Illinois Central Railroad are located here. Other manufactories include cotton-mills, pottery and iron works, lumber mills, and shoe shops. The graded public schools are among the best in the State. The population, 2,832. 14. West Point, the county seat of Clay county, is a thriving business town. It is at the intersection of three trunk railroads, and has excellent communication with all parts of the State. It has fine graded schools. It manufac- tures lumber, sash and blinds, brick and tile, cotton-seed oil, and wagons. Its population is 2,762. 282 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 15. Grenada, the county seat of Grenada county, on the Yalobusha river, is situated at the junction of the Illinois Central and the Mississippi & Tennessee Railroads. It is the seat of Grenada Female College. The graded public school building is one of the finest in the State. Grenada has a population of 2,416. 16. McComb City, the largest town in Pike county, is a flourishing commercial town and the seat of important manu- factories. It has a population of 2,383. 17. Holly Springs, the county seat of Marshall county, has a population of 2,246. Its situation is unusually attrac- tive, it being 850 feet above the level of the sea. It is the most important railroad and commercial center in Northern Mississippi. The city has graded public schools, and col- leges under the auspices of the Methodist and Presbyterian churches ; and for colored students, Shaw University, and a State normal school. 18. Brookhaven, the county seat of Lincoln county, on the Illinois Central Railroad, is the seat of Whitworth Female College, and has graded public schools. Being in the heart of the great lumber region of Southern Missis- sippi, it has an extensive trade in lumber, which is shipped to all parts of the country. 19. Canton, on the Illinois Central Railroad, is the county seat of Madison county, and has a large trade in cotton and planters' supplies. The graded public and private schools are good. The population is 2,131. 20. Corinth, at the junction of the Mobile & Ohio and Memphis & Charleston Railroads, is the county seat of Alcorn county. It has a large trade in cotton, and carries on a variety of manufactories. Its graded schools are good. During the closing years of the war it was the headquarters of the Federal Army. The battle of Shiloh and other important battles were fought near this place. A National Cemetery, containing the bodies of several thousand Federal HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 283 soldiers, is located near here. Corinth has a population of 2,111. 21. Okalona, in Chickasaw county, is an enterprising town, on the Mobile & Ohio Railroad. It is in the heart of the " Black Prairie" region, and has a large trade in cotton. Its graded schools are excellent. The population is 2,099. WHITWORTH FEMALE COLLEGE, BROOKHAVEN, MISS. 22. Macon, the county seat of Noxubee county, is a properous railroad town. It has a large local trade, and some manufacturing establishments. The graded public schools are good. 23. Oxford, in Lafayette county, on the Illinois Central Railroad, is the seat of the University of Mississippi, a State institution, which is largely patronized by the residents of the State. 24. Starkville, the county seat of Oktibbeha county, is a thrifty town, on the Canton, Aberdeen & Nashville and a branch of the Mobile & Ohio Railroads. Besides having excellent public and private schools, it is the seat of the State Agricultural and Mechanical College. 25. Clinton, in Hinds county, has for a long time been the seat of Mississippi College. 26. Blue Mountain, in Tippah county, is the seat of Blue Mountain Female College. 284 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 27. Bay St. Louis is the county seat of Hancock county, and the most important port on the coast of Mississippi. It is a favorite summer resort for the people of New Orleans. Other important towns are Winona, Kosciusko, Enterprise, Sardis, Batesville, Como, Senatobia, Coldwater, Clarks- dale, Lyon, Greenwood, Friars' Point, Tupelo, Iuka, etc. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER XLVII. Give the boundaries of the State of Mississippi? Give a descrip- tion of Jackson, the capital city of the State ? Vicksburg ? Meridian ? Natchez? Greenville? Columbus? Aberdeen? Yazoo City? Biloxi? Wesson? Water Valley? West Point? Grenada? McComb City? Holly Springs? Brookhaven ? Canton ? Corinth ? Okalona? Macon? Oxford? Starkville? Clinton? Blue Mountain? Bay St. Louis, and other important towns? A^£_ HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 2& LIST OF GOVERNORS. 1799 1892. Winthrop Sargent I799 C. C. Claiborne 1801 Robert Williams ^05 David Holmes ^oo. George Poindexter ^o Walter Leake ^22 David Holmes ^26 Gerard C. Brandon ^27 Abram M. Scott ^33 Hiram G. Runnels ^33 Charles Lynch ^36 Alexander G. JVlcNutt 1838 Tilghman H. Tucker 1842 Albert G. Brown 1844 Joseph W. Matthews 1848 John A. Quitman 1850 Henry Stuart Foote 1852 John J. McRae 1854 William McWillie 1858 John J. Pettus i860 Charles Clarke 1864 William L. Sharkey 1865 Benjamin G. Humphreys 1866 Adelbert Ames 1868 James L. Alcorn 1869 R. C. Powers 1871 Adelbert Ames 1873 John M. Stone 1876 Robert Lowry 1882 John M. Stone 1890-1892 280 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. LIST OF COUNTIES IN MISSISSIPPI. Name. Adams Alcorn Amite Attala Benton Bolivar . Calhoun . Carroll Chickasaw Choctaw • Claiborne Clarke . . Clay . . . Coahoma Copiah Covington De Soto • Franklin • Greene • • Grenada . Hancock . Harrison . Hinds • . Holmes Issoquena Itawamba Jackson Jasper . Jefferson Jones • Kemper Lafayette Lauderdale Lawrence Leake • . Lee • . . For Whom. Pres't Adams • • Ex-Gov. Alcorn . Named by French Indian name • • • Benton Gen'l Bolivar . . Jno. C. Calhoun . Chas. Carroll . . Indian tribe . . . Indian tribe • . . C.C.Claiborne . J. G. Clarke • • Henry Clay . . . Indian name . . • Indian name ■ • . Gen'l Covington . Hernando De Soto Benj. Franklin . . Gen. Nath'l Greene Spanish name . . John Hancock . . Wm. H. Harrison Thos. Hinds . . . Gov. Holmes . . Indian name . . . Indian name • • • Andrew Jackson . Serg't Jasper • . Thos. Jefferson Jones Kemper family • . Marq. De Lafayette Col. Lauderdale • Steph. Lawrence . Gov. Leake . . . Gen. R. E. Lee County Site. Natchez . Corinth . Liberty . Kosciusko Ashland . Rosedale Pittsboro Carrolton Houston . Chester . Port Gibson Quitman West Point Friars' Point Hazelhurst Williamsburgh Hernando Meadville Leakesville Grenada Bay St. Louis MississippiC'y Raymond Lexington Mayersville Fulton Scranton Paulding Fayette • Ellisville DeKalb . Oxford • Meridian Monticello Carthage Tupelo . 799 870 809 833 870 836 852 833 836 833 802 833 871 836 823 819 836 809 811 870 812 841 821 823 844 836 812 823 802 826 823 836 833 814 833 866 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 287 Name. Leflore • Lincoln Lowndes Madison Marion . Marshall Monroe Montgomery Neshoba . Newton . Noxubee . Oktibbeha Panola • . Pearl River Perry . . Pike . . . Pontotoc • Prentiss • Quitman . Rankin Scott . . . Sharkey • Simpson • Smith • • Sunflower Tallahatchie Tate • . . Tippah • • Tishomingo Tunica . . Union • • Warren • Washington Wayne Webster . Wilkinson Winston ■ Yalobusha Yazoo • • For Whom. Greenwood Leflore Pres't Lincoln Wm. Lowndes Jas. Madison Gen. Marion • C'fJusticeMarshall Pres't Monroe Rich. Montgomery Indian name • • Sir Isaac Newton Indian name Indian name Indian name Pearl river . O. H. Perry Pike . . . Indian . . . S. S. Prentiss . John A. Quitman Christ'r Rankin Gov. Scott . . Gov. Sharkey • Josiah Simpson Smith David • • Sunflower river Indian name Tate family Indian name Indian name Indian name Union . • . Gen. Warren Gen. Washington Gen. Wavne • • Dan'l Webster . Gen'l Wilkinson Col. Winston • Indian name • • Indian name • • County Site. Greenwood Brookhaven Columbus Canton . Columbia Holly Sprin Aberdeen Winona . Philadelphia Decatur . Macon Starkville Sardis • ■ Poplarville Augusta . Magnolia Pontotoc . Booneville Belen . • Brandon • Forest ■ • Rolling Fork Westville Raleigh . Indianola Charleston Senatobia Ripley • ■ Iuka . . Austin New Albany Vicksburg Greenville Waynesboro Walthall Woodville Louisville Coffeeville Yazoo City gs 1871 1870 1830 1828 1811 1836 1821 1871 1833 1836 1833 1833 1835 1890 1820 1815 1836 1870 1877 1828 1833 1876 1824 1833 1844 1833 1873 1836 1836 1836 1870 1826 1827 1802 1874 1812 1833 1833 1823 Ph 16,869 17,912 27,047 27,321 9,532 26,043 30,730 14,459 11,146 16,625 27,338 17,694 26,977 2,957 6,494 21,203 14,940 13,679 3,286 17,922 11,740 8,382 10,138 10,635 9,384 14,361 19,253 12,951 9,302 12,158 15,606 33,164 40,414 9,817 12,060 17,592 12,089 16,629 36,394 TEN CHAPTERS Civil Government CAREFULLY COMPILED FROM THE BEST AUTHORITIES BY MARY V. DUVAL, Author of "Student's History of Mississippi," and " History of Mississippi and Civil Government." DESIGNED EXPRESSLY FOR USE IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF MISSISSIPPI. (289) PREFACE. The excuse of this book "for being" is the requirement of the Legislature of Mississippi, of 1892, that a work on "Civil Government" be placed on the excellent curriculum of the public schools of our State. As many of the current text-books on this subject are filled with matter not pertinent to our surroundings, it was thought that a work compiled from the best authorities, and relating almost entirely to our State and Federal governments, would meet with popular approval — hence the " Ten Chapters on Civil Government," now offered to the people of the State. The author desires to make special mention of the courtesies extended her in the preparation of this work by various publishers, and to none is she more deeply indebted than to the popular house of Messrs. Ginn & Co., New York. Hoping that it may meet the end designed by our patri- otic Legislature — that of training our children to become good citizens — it is submitted in all candor and confidence. (291) INDEX TO CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER I. — Some form of government necessary — Transplanting of English laws to America — The Township — County — Variations of Local Governments — State Governments — United States Government — Colonists of America — Virginia House of Bur- gesses — Royal Governors — Proprietary — Charter Colonies. CHAPTER II. — House of Representatives — State Constitutions — Habeas Corpus— Grand Model— Bill of Rights— Three Departments of Government — First State Constitutions — Confederation of 1643 — Second Colonial Congress — Second Continental Congress Articles of Confederation — Constitution of the United States- Relations of State and Federal Governments. CHAPTER III. — Monarchy— Aristocracy— Republic— Comparison be- tween English and United States Government— Between State and Federal Governments — City Governments — Public Educa- tion — School Districts — School Boards — Seminary lands of Mississippi — Teachers' Certificates — County Superintendents. CHAPTER IV. — Taxes — Assessors — County Treasurer — Municipal Taxes — Exemptions — Revenue — Post-office Department — Inter- nal Revenue — Customs — Duties — Corporations. CHAPTER V. — School Teachers' Elections — Presidential Electors — English Parliament — Australian Ballot System. CHAPTER V I .—Juries — Sheriffs — Constables —Coroners— Courts — Equity — Justice of the Peace — Supreme Court — Attorney- General — District Attorney — Commissioners — Federal Courts — Mandamus — Injunction. CHAPTER VII. — Congress — House of Representatives — Naturalization — Senate — Election of Senators — Vice-President of the United States — Speakership— Impeachments. CHAPTER VI II- — Elections for Congressmen — Proceedings of the House — Of the Senate — Privileges of Members — Bills — Votes. CHAPTER IX. — Congress continued — Commerce — Exclusive work of Congress — Copyrights — Patents — Letters of Marque and Repri- sal — Various powers of Congress — President's Cabinet — Depart- ments — Army and Navy of the United States — President's Message. CHAPTER X. — Amendments to the Constitution of the United States. (292) TEN CHAPTERS ON CIVIL GOVERNMENT. CHAPTER I. i. The careful student of history soon learns that absolute liberty can not be enjoyed except by an individual who lives in complete solitude, having no intercourse with his fellow- men. He will also soon learn that people can not live together in society without some form of government ; that mutual rights and privileges must be defined and laws enacted, which are restraints, not upon the law-abiding, but upon the evil-doers of a community. 2. This is why to-day we are living in a country governed by laws which make it one of the freest, best, and most prosperous countries in the world. When the English founded colonies in America, it was natural that they should wish to transplant some, at least, of the laws of England to the new soil which proved so congenial to their institutions. This is why in the early history of the American colonies we read of not only the township, the county or shire, and the parish, all of which names are familiar to our ears, but also of the hundred, a name which exists now in history only, the manor and the borough, all forms of local government in the mother-country. Of all these forms of local govern- ment, only the township and county remain to Americans as of permanent value and general jurisdiction, though the (293) 294 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. incorporated town and the city exist as special governments for people massed in towns and cities. 3. In New England, the township, whose form of govern- ment is purely democratic, holds the most important place in local forms of government. In New York, the township is not so strong as in New England, the county absorbing a larger share of the local business. In Pennsylvania, the county government is of the first importance, the townships having been organized for the purpose of choosing local officers to assist the county government in the execution of the law. Variations of the township and county governments of New York and Pennsylvania have been reproduced in many of the Western States, whose earliest settlers were the pioneers from the older States. 4. In the Southern States, Virginia being the model for most of the others, the county, the nearest reproduction of the old English shire that could be obtained, was exalted above every other form of local government. Many causes contributed to this end, the system of negro slavery, per- haps, being chief. Before the Civil war, the county court and the justices of the peace attended not only to the judicial business, but also to other local matters. The State governments of the South being highly centralized, only State officers were chosen by popular election, the others being appointed. After the war, the South showed a dispo- sition to establish local government on a popular basis, and we now have an almost exact repetition of the local form of government in Pennsylvania during the colonial period ; that is, having the township subservient to the county govern- ment for the purpose of choosing local officers for the same. 5. We find, therefore, in summing up, that three distinct forms of local government were transplanted from England to America. These are, first, the Township System in New England ; second, the Township-County System which prevails in New York, Pennsylvania, and the more Western HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 295 States ; third, the County System of the South, in which the county is the one local government of great importance. 6. While our towns, townships, and counties were trans- planted directly from England, our States were derived from a different source. In England, as we all know, all power, legislative, executive, and judicial, rested with the reigning sovereign, until Parliament, the chief law-making body of the kingdom, claimed that the making of laws was its busi- ness, and that it was the duty of the king to observe, obey, and execute the laws of Parliament. So it happened that when the American colonies were founded, the government of England was in a transition state. 7. The love of liberty and their devotion to the religious convictions, for which they had been persecuted at home, had more influence in determining the character of the gov- ernment of the United States than all other causes combined. The definite idea of preserving English liberty, by found- ing a free State in the wilderness of America, was enter- tained by many of the colonists from the beginning. The Pilgrim Fathers of Massachusetts, the Quakers of Pennsyl- vania, the Catholics of Maryland, and the Huguenots of the Southern colonies, all might have remained peacefully in their former homes if they had been willing to violate their consciences. 8. The French were the first to make a permanent settle- ment in America, Canada being the scene of their adven- tures. In 1606, a company chartered in London, England, for the purpose of founding colonies in America, began a settlement on the banks of the James river. The first office of permanent importance to appear in the general government of the colony was that of Governor. This officer was appointed by the king, though he was selected by the London Company. In his turn, the Governor of the colony called to his assistance the chief men of the colony, their combined power at first performing all the 296 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. functions of a general government. They not only made and administered the laws, but were the highest court of appeal in cases of law. 9. In 1619 the eleven settlements along the James river elected two delegates each to meet with the Governor and his council, and assist in the government of the colony. This body, known as the House of Burgesses, is memorable as the first representative assembly in the New World. When the elected members of this body withdrew to them- selves for deliberation, the Governor and his council, sitting to themselves, were known as the Upper House, they, the Lower House of Burgesses. The name of the Upper House was changed to Senate when Virginia separated from Eng- land during the war of the Revolution. 10. For over one hundred years the kings of England continued to appoint governors for the loyal Virginians, whose experience, with some variation, was repeated in a number of the colonies. The Carolinas were for a time under the control of royal governors and some noblemen to whom the king, in a fit of generosity, had given the prov- ince. When New York was taken from the Dutch in 1664, it was presented by the King of England to his brother, the Duke of York. In both of these cases discontent with the royal appointments was followed by an appeal for legislative representation, which, when granted, brought comparative freedom. n. The Proprietary Colonies were not those alone given to mercantile companies, as in the case of the London and Plymouth, but those granted to noted individuals, as in the cases of Lord Baltimore, of Maryland, and William Penn, of the Quaker colony of West Virginia. The proprietor had the privilege of naming the governor of the colonies, which, during the greater part of their temporary existence, enjoyed legislative representation. 12. The Charter Colonies were those which received from HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 297 the king, or from Parliament during the civil war in Eng- land, liberal guarantees for the privilege of self-government. We again sum up and find that the Colonial Governments may be divided into three general classes: (i) Charter Colonies, which were governed according to charters granted to them by the King of England ; (2) Proprietary Col- onies, where the grant was made to individuals commonly styled the Lords' Proprietors; (3) Royal Provinces, where the king appointed the governors and had the general super- vision of the colonies. It is useless to recite to American readers the story of that glorious contest with the king, in which they were driven to renounce their allegiance to their once-loved mother-country, and to make good the Declaration of July 4, 1776, "That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States." 13. The parishes of Louisiana, whose territory was acquired at a later date than that of the original colonies, take the place of counties in other States. The hundreds are divisions of counties and do not take their place. The hundred is said to have been the settlement of one hundred free Saxon families, and if so, must date back 1,200 years. Some historians ascribe its formation to Alfred the Great, who desired to simplify the collection of his taxes. The hundred consisted of ten tithings. The early colonists brought the hundred with them, so we have, for example, "Bermuda Hundred" and other hundreds in Delaware. The Louisiana settlers kept their French customs just as the English kept theirs. The parish in France was about equivalent to an English county, so that the colonists in using parishes as the civil divisions of the State, used names with which they were accustomed. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER I. What does the careful student of history soon learn? Why is our country one of the best and most prosperous of the world's Govern- 298 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. ments ? Why were English laws transplanted to American soil ? Give some English names familiar to American ears? What forms of local government alone retain their permanent value? Importance of the township in different sections of the Union ? What form of local gov- ernment prevails mostly in the South ? Differences in local govern- ment in the South before and after the Civil war? Give a summary of the forms of local government? With whom did all power in England formerly reside ? How changed? What, more than all other causes, determined the character of the government of the United States ? What idea prevailed, generally, in the planting of the American colonies ? What nation made the first permanent settlement in America? First permanent settlement in the United States ? First office of permanent importance established in the colony? What of the delegates from the eleven settlements along the James river? What name did this body receive? Why is it memorable? Upper and Lower Houses? For what period of time did the King of England appoint the Governors of Vir- ginia? What of the Carolinas? New York? Proprietary Colonies? Privileges of proprietors? What of Charter Colonies? Royal Colonies ? Free and independent States? HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 299 CHAPTER II. i. When the colonies became independent States, their governments were, in many respects, changed : (i) The House of Representatives was derived from the colonial assembly, to which the people were so much attached. (2) A new House called, in most States, the Senate, was elected to fulfill the legislative duties of the Governor and his Council. (3) The Governor was continued as the chief executive officer, but ceased to be a member of the Legisla- ture, and instead of being appointed by the king or proprietor, was chosen either by popular vote or by the members of the Legislature. 2. This general description can not be applied to all of the States alike. Rhode Island and Connecticut became States with almost no regular form of government, and Pennsylva- nia for several years had only one house in the Legislature. 3. We come now to define the meaning of " State Con- stitutions," which include: (1) A Bill of Rights which has the effect of limiting the power of the officers of government by specifying the rights and privileges of citizens. This part of our Constitution is as old as Magna Charta itself. The principle of taxation by a representative body, trial by jury, the right to speedy trial and compensation for property taken for public purposes, are all derived from the same source. The Habeas Corpus Act, passed in 1679, made it the more difficult for the Government to keep a citizen in prison without just cause, and one who thinks himself unjustly imprisoned may apply to any court in the vicinity for the privilege of the writ of Habeas Corpus. It then becomes the duty of the court to issue an order commanding the officer to bring the body of the prisoner into court and 300 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. show cause why he is held, and if sufficient cause is not shown, the court must require his release. The name " Bill of Rights " was given to these documents at the time of the final triumph of the people over the last of the Stuart kings in 1689. 4. The " Grand Model," prepared by John Locke in 1669, was one of the first documents in America to receive the name of Constitution. It was an elaborate paper called the "Fundamental Constitutions of Carolina," but was rejected by the liberty-loving people of the Carolinas as unsuited to English-born citizens of the New World. The charters given to the London and Plymouth colonies contained the outlines of constitutions prepared for the Ameri- can colonies. With the exception of Rhode Island and Con- necticut, whose charters granted by the King of England were liberal in the extreme, each of the thirteen original States framed and adopted a constitution of its own. In most of the States a convention of delegates, chosen for the purpose, effected this important work, though in a few instances it was submitted to the people for ratification. All of these State Constitutions renounced the authority of the King of England and proclaimed the doctrine that all govern- ment of rights belongs to the people. A statement of all the rights ever claimed by Englishmen may be found in these constitutions. In some cases the "Bill of Rights" is entirely separate from the Constitution. 5. In all these Constitutions, provision is made for three departments of government — Legislative, Executive, and Judicial. The Legislative is the department that makes the laws, the Executive that which executes them, while the Judicial, considered, perhaps, as most important of all, interprets and applies the laws. The President of the United States is its Chief Executive, Congress is the Legis- lative, and the Supreme Court tne Judicial department of the Government, HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 301 6. The first State Constitutions, framed by the people of the thirteen original States, have served as models, not only for the Federal Constitution, but for all the other State Constitutions which have since been made. New States, formed by the division of other States and out of territory which was never connected with any other State, adopted Constitutions which were but modifications of the original ones. The State of Texas was annexed to the Union with a Constitution already formed. Citizens of the United States, entering unoccupied territory, make for themselves such governments as they can, until numerous enough to be supplied by Congress with a Territorial government. When the population has increased sufficiently, Congress pusses an act enabling the people of the Territory to agree upon a S r tate Constitution, and the Territory becomes a State. In some instances, however, the people in the Territory of a proposed State have adopted a Constitution and been admit- ted by Congress without the enabling act. 7. The first attempt to form a confederation among the different American colonies occurred in 1643, when repre- sentatives from the colonies of Massachusetts, Plymouth, Connecticut, and New Haven met and drew up a Constitu- tion providing for mutual protection and for various matters of common local interest. This Constitution provided that the colonies should, "each of them, in all respects, have peculiar jurisdiction and government within their limits, respectively." The English Government, before the begin- ning of the great contest between Great Britain and France for the possession of territory in North America, recom- mended to the colonies the formation of a union for common defense. To this end, representatives from a number of the colonies met in Albany, in 1754, and adopted a plan of union, subject to the approval of the English Government and the separate colonies. The English Government rejected the plan, because it gave too much power to the 302 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. colonies, and the colonies rejected it because it gave too much power to the English Government. 8. When the English Government attempted to violate the constitutional rights of the colonies, by taxing them without their consent, the latter began to consult with each other and to act together in matters of civil government. In 1765, representatives from the colonies gave united expressions of their views in the Second Colonial, or Stamp Act, Congress, and in the ten years following, the colonists kept the subject of their rights, under the English Constitu- tion, in constant agitation. On the 10th of May, 1775, the Second Continental Congress for the United Colonies of America met in Philadelphia, and began at once to assume the powers of a Government, though without the aid of a written Constitution. In the following year, Congress passed the Declaration of Independence. At this time each State was engaged in forming and administering a Constitu- tion of its own, and it was natural that Congress should think of forming a Federal Constitution. 9. The Congress of 1778 adopted "Articles of Confedera- tion," but these were not ratified until near the close of the war. This Constitution proved unsatisfactory on many accounts. It left the States sovereign, free, and independ- ent; made no adequate provision for the enforcement of Federal laws, or the payment of the Federal debt. The Confederation was about to dissolve in confusion when a movement to amend the Constitution was made. In May, 1787, delegates from twelve States met in Philadelphia, for the purpose of devising a Constitution of the United States, more adequate to existing wants than the Articles of Con- federation. The result of their deliberations was a docu- ment in many of its features modeled after the State Con- stitutions. There were the three departments of govern- ment ; there were two Houses in the Legislature, the Upper House being chosen in a different way from the Lower ; the HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. 303 Chief Executive chosen by special electors elected for the purpose ; the Judiciary, appointed by the Executive and confirmed by the Senate. Many other features of the exist- ing State governments were incorporated into the Federal Constitution ; so to a great extent, the making of the Con- stitution of the United States consisted simply in a judicious selection from the Constitutions of the different States. 10. The framers of the Constitution encountered the same great question which from that time to the present has agitated the minds of the people of the United States, cul- minating at one time in a great civil war, which rent the country in twain, shed the best blood of both sections and wasted millions of treasure. This was the relations held by the governments of the different States to the Federal Gov- ernment. According to the views of one party the States should hold the same relation to the general government that the counties hold to the States. The opponents of this political doctrine held that the States should remain sov- ereign and independent ; that no power should be exercised by the general government, except such as each State at the time approved. Happily, a compromise was effected between these extreme views. The framers of the new Constitution expressly conferred upon the Federal Govern- ment certain powers, while at the same time expressly for- bidding to it certain others. Certain powers were likewise forbidden to the States, and a clause was engrafted, which declared that the Constitution, the laws and the treaties, made in pursuance thereof, shall be the supreme law of the land, and that the judges in every State shall be bound thereby. Another clause was added, requiring all officers in the several States to be bound by oath to support the Con- stitution of the United States. 1 1 . Many of the States were disposed to look with suspicion on the new Constitution as likely to be an infringement of their rights, but finally all of them were induced to accept 304 HISTORY OF MISSISSIPPI AND CIVIL GOVERNMENT. and ratify it. Among those framing the new Constitution, Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson, and Madison were con- spicuous. By the adoption of the new Constitution all the American States then existing — thirteen in number — were united under one government, a government devised to "establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty," to themselves and their posterity. QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER II. How were the governments of the colonies changed when they became States? What exceptions to this description? Define the meaning of State Constitution. How derived? What other great principles are derived from the same source ? The Habeas Corpus