AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE
December 1860-May 1865
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
December 22, 1860, p. 2, c. 1
The
Serenade
On last Wednesday night, we witnessed the largest and most magnificent
demonstration of the kind which we have ever seen.--the services of a fine band
of music had been previously secured. The
procession was formed on the Avenue, under the Chief Marshal and his associates,
elegantly uniformed with scarfs [sic] and lone star badges.
It comprised a large portion of our most substantial citizens, who
expressed the utmost enthusiasm for the ensign of the Republic, and for Southern
Independence. The band moved
forward in a chariot drawn by four horses gayly [sic] decorated. Many Lone Star banners fluttered, torches gleamed and the
transparencies shone brilliantly.
The vast crowd marched first to Judge Wheeler's lodgings, who responded
to the loud calls for him, in a calm, deliberate and powerful speech, which
stirred to their depths the hearts of the People.
We give a sketch of his remarks in another column.
The gallant Capt. Darnell, was also visited.
The response of this brave and intelligent patriot was admirable.
Gen. Thos. J. Chambers, was also serenaded, and responded in a noble
effort worthy of his high reputation.
Col. Claiborne, and other gentlemen were called upon, but as we did not
continue with the procession, we can give no further details.
All the speeches we learn, advocated resistance.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
December 29, 1860, p. 1, c. 8
From
a Texas Lady.
EDITOR GAZETTE:--I love Texas--it is my home; I love her breezes, I love
her flowers, I love her people. When I look back to the time when Texas was young, and
remember the "days that tried men's souls," I can fully realize the
agony she felt, when, straggling with a sparse and scattered population, to
throw off the yoke that bound her. At
one time I felt hard that the old Texans should discriminate between those that
adopted her soil as their own, in favor of her own honored land. I thought she should have welcomed us with open hands and
open hearts, since we had come to her, to make their homes our homes, their land
our land, their people our people; and if good or evil came upon us, we would
share their woes in common. But
when I learned their history, and found the dark and stormy times that did
surround them in their troubles, when I learned, as one man they stood together,
and battled against a powerful foe, and learned that side by side, they laid
together, upon the tented field, looking calmly and firmly, when the nightshades
came upon them--at the stars, that shone in the Heavens, and felt that He smiled
upon them through those little windows, my heart was with them.
I can now fully excuse all that I once though unkind, when I read of
their trials and sufferings, and now know, how each heart answered to another,
and how each strong arm was nerved to defend one another, the [illegible]
comforts that surrounded them, were shared mutually.
Knowing all this, how can I think that there is a single Texian now
living who feels the patriotism, that then throbbed in his bosom, but will come
now to the rescue. You were once in
trouble, stout hearts, and strong arms came to your support, and will you turn
over into the hands of northern fanatics--a blind and bigoted people--this fair
land. Never!
never! The scenes you once witnessed, the troubles you once felt, lead
you to cry for freedom without control. The
Lone Star banner that once floated above you, flung out its beams, which reached
the hearts of your kindred in other lands, must again flutter in the breeze, and
receive the adulation, that I know rests, but does not sleep, in your warm,
patriotic hearts. I am but a woman,
yet shall I not love my country, and love my home.
A woman loves her household gods as warmly as men.
She loves those that are ready to stand by her, ready and willing to
protect her. I do not wish to
create in your minds any foolish fear. I
only wish to say, be prepared for any emergency.
Look for a moment at the spectacle now presented us from our bleeding
frontier. Do you think that the
depredations there committed are only the offspring of the fiendish Indians that
swarm upon our borders. Do you
think there is no incentive beyond their hope of livelihood which prompts them
to these deeds of darkness. Do you
think that the incendiary's torch, kindled in our towns, villages and country
homes, are purely accidental. Singular
it is that all should have occurred within a few months.
I would ask the most conservative, the most Union-loving man:
"Stop and ponder upon these events; go and tell your wife and little
ones that look to you for protection, help, and sustenance, and say it is all an
idle speculation," and answer in your conscience to y our God.
I know that there are yet men enough, and true enough, to look upon these
things as they really exist.
VOLUMNIA.
Austin, Dec. 16.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
December 29, 1860, p. 1, c. 8
HURRAH FOR THE GIRLS.--The young ladies of Baylor University, at Independence,
have made, and with their own hands hoisted the Lone Star from the cupola of the
University building. God bless
these noble daughters of Texas; their deeds shall live after them, in the hearts
of those to come after us.--Belton
Democrat.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
December 29, 1860, p. 2, c. 1
HANG
THE BANNER UPON THE OUTER WALL!
On Saturday the 5th of January next, a Flag staff 130 feet high, will be
erected in this city, upon Congress Avenue.
The Banner will be 60 feet by 20. It
is being made by the accomplished lady of Col. George W. White, and others.
Our young friend A. T. Logan, has been especially active in preparing
this magnificent tribute to the honor and independence of Texas.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 5, 1861, p. 2, c. 4
"Hang
the Banner Upon the Outer Wall."
To day a magnificent Lone Star flag will be hoisted in this city, to the
summit of a flag staff one hundred and twenty feet high.
We learn that the star was placed upon the flag by the fair lady of our
friend Col. A. N. Hopkins.
The procession will be formed at the City Hotel, at precisely half past
10 o'clock A.M., and will move, under the direction of the marshals, to the site
of the old Capitol. At that point
the flag will be hoisted.
A salute of fifteen guns will be fired.
Col. John A. Wilcox and Col. James C. Wilson, and other speakers, have
been invited to address the people on the occasion.
The procession will be formed in the following order:
1. Chief Marshal and assistant. 2.
Music. 3. Ladies on horseback, with
flags having the coats of any of the Southern States--South Carolina taking the
precedence. 4.
Ladies on horseback, with flags and without flags.
5. Gentlemen on foot. 6.
Gentlemen on horseback. 7. Ladies
and gentlemen in carriages.
In our next we will give a list of the ladies who made the elegant flags
representing the several Southern States, together with a full description of
the occurrences of the day.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 5, 1861, p. 3, c. 2
[From our Carrier's Address.
The
Lone Star.
by W.
C. Carleton
Time was when Texas' sons a flag unfurled,
And the Lone Star flung flaunting to the world.
With hosts she battled, warring to be free,
And the Lone Star proclaimed her liberty.
Oh, flag most dear to every Texas heart,
One thought of thee will force the tear drop start.
As we recall to mind the honored dead--
The pools of blood in thy defense they shed.
Ah! Travis, Milam, Burleson can tell
How thou wast borne a loft; how passing well
Each Texan bore his brand in that stern strife,
Where battling ceased but with the very life.
Flag of the brave our hearts still cling to thee
Emblem alike of Hope and Liberty!
Our guiding star in a most gloomy day,
A brilliant meteor brightening up our way,
Once more we hail thee in a perilous hour,
Where freedom's, honor's hopes begin to flower,
And none, in all our broad, bright land, can see
A glimpse of remedy except in thee!
God speed thee, Lone Star, on thy glorious way!
Shine on with an effulgence bright as day,
And as thy folds wave floating in the air,
Thousands of freemen will be gathered there,
'Neath thee to conquer, or with thee,
to fall--
To wear the victor's wreath, or die at honor's call.
Hymn
of Freedom.
Hail the birth of
Southern Freedom!
Hail the glorious herald star!
From the purple field of morning,
Flinging its pure sheen afar.
Brighter than the light Hyperion,
Beaming on Aurora's brow,
Shines the brilliant orb of Freedom,
Carolina's frontlet now!
Glorious Star, which Carolina
Hangs a beacon to the world,
From its proud, exalted station,
Never more shall it be hurled!
Sister orbs may light their fires,
At its pure, refulgent flame,
But till Time's great torch expires,
It shall burn for'er the same!
Bow the knee to God
eternal,
Our Creator, Savior, King,
Till He take us to the shelter
Of His own Almighty wing,
Till the unction of His spirit,
Rests upon our country's shrine,
And we live, a chosen people,
In the light of love Divine!
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 5, 1861, p. 2, c. 1
HURRAH FOR THE LADIES OF TRAVIS.--On Monday last, Miss Sallie Moss, one
of our loveliest young ladies, unfurled from the summit of Pilot Knob, with her
own fair hands a Lone Star Banner. On
the same day, Mrs. McGee, the accomplished lady of Capt. Wm. McGee, hoisted the
same proud emblem of our liberties, in front of her husband's beautiful
residence.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 5, 1861, p. 1, c. 1
Fancy dress ball at Buaas Hall on Tuesday night next, the 8th inst.
It will be a magnificent affair. There
will be a fine supper.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 12, 1861, p. 1, c. 7
Palmetto
War Hymn.
Before the battle
sound,
Breathe we a fervent prayer,
Upon this green and verdant mound;
For know that God is here!
The clanging crash of
arms,
The trumpet's shriller din,
Will all our breasts with fresh alarm
If we love secret sin.
Our cause, we know, is
just--
He surely will defend
In God, then, let the State now trust
And at his altar bend.
What cause have to
fear,
If still our God is nigh?
He'll keep us neath his watchful care
Beneath his sov'reign eye.
We'll trust him, while
we live,
No matter what may come,
What's best for us he'll surely give,
Until he takes us home.
Now go we to the field,
Strong in our cause and God!
Whilst we have breath we'll never yield
One inch of native sod.
Our God protects the
right
Oh, brothers, bravely on!
We'll flinch not when we come to fight--
The battle must be won.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 12, 1861, p. 3, c. 2
A
Magnificent Tribute
to the
Honor and Liberties of Texas!
The Lone Star Unfurled from a Lofty Flag-Staff, Planted
Upon the Site of the Old Capitol, Hallowed by Glorious Memories!
Without
imitating the silly extravagances of our Governor's office-holders and
office-hunters, we can say that the secession demonstration in this city on
Saturday, the 5th inst., exceeded, in its splendor, enthusiasm, and success, any
similar exhibition which we have ever witnessed in this State.
The processions
was formed on Congress Avenue, in front of the City Hotel, under the direction
of the distinguished veteran, Col. John S. Ford, and his able assistants, Col.
A. N. Hopkins, Wm. Walsh, and Thomas E. Sneed Esqs., in the following order.
1. Chief Marshal and assistant. 2.
Music. 3. Ladies on horseback, with
flags having the coats of arms of any of the Southern States, South Carolina
taking the precedence. 4. Ladies on
horseback, with flags and without flags. 5.
Gentlemen on foot. 6. Gentlemen on
horseback. 7.
Ladies and gentlemen in carriages.
We give
below the names of the young ladies representing the several States, with their
respective companions:
Miss
Rockie Thompson, with F. W. Moore, South Carolina.
Miss
Bettie Thompson, with R. R. Jones, Virginia.
Miss
Adie Nowlin, with Mr. Deinkins, Florida.
Miss
Fannie Ford, with Mr. Gooch, Georgia.
Miss
Mary Pitts, with R. Johns, Alabama.
Miss
Lucy Goodrich, with C. W. Keim, Mississippi.
Mrs.
Glasscock, with S. J. Wood, Louisiana.
Miss
Weir, with J. T. Price, Tennessee.
Miss
Lillie Bouldin, with R. S. Rust, Missouri.
Miss
McKinney, with J. Davidson, North Carolina.
Miss
Fannie Carrington, with M. Thompson, Texas.
Miss
Evans, with S. E. Mosely, Delaware.
Miss
Hopkins, with W. S. Giles, Maryland.
Miss
Ann Pitts, with J. H. Fry, Kentucky.
Miss
Bettie Woodward, with W. H. Bratton, Arkansas.
These
beautiful young ladies bearing the glorious insignia of so many gallant States,
riding their spirited and beautiful steeds with ease and grace, and accompanied
by their stalwart and chivalrous companions, presented a soul-stirring sight of
youth, beauty and courage, animated by the noblest patriotism.
There
were a large number of carriages in the procession bearing the Lone Star banner.
We regret that we have not the space to give a detailed description of
the features of the procession.
It
moved in good order through the principal streets to the site of the old
Capitol, where a flag staff 130 feet high had been erected.
To its lofty summit, a large and handsome banner, bearing the Lone Star
of Texas, surrounded by a constellation of smaller stars, representing her
sister Southern States, was hoisted amidst the loud applause of the multitude.
It was a thrilling sight to see the glorious emblem of our liberties so
gently kissing the southern breeze as it bravely floated on high.
As the
flag went, the Hon. C. S. West responded to the loud calls of the people, in a
fine effort worthy of his reputation.
Able
and eloquent speeches were also delivered during the day, by Spencer Ford, Esq.,
of Lockhart, Wm. M. Walton and John A Green, Esqs., of this city, and the Hon.
Geo. M. Flournoy. We regret that
our limited space will not permit us to give a sketch of them.
During
the day, a salute of fifteen guns was fired in honor of the several Southern
States.
---------
Austin, Jan. 10, 1861.
Editor
Gazette--Sir: I have seen so many
erroneous statements going the rounds in regard to the number of persons and
voters in the various processions that have come off in the last few days, that
I took it on myself to make as correct an estimate as I could of the numbers in
our procession and at the flag raising of last Saturday. There was about three hundred persons in the procession, of
whom one hundred were voters. There
was on the hill at the flag pole about one thousand persons. Yours, &c.,
ONE OF THE MARSHALS.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 19, 1861, p. 2, c. 5
A
Brave Texas Lady.
We
are permitted to extract the following from a letter from a Texas lady, now on a
visit in Ohio, to her relatives in this city:
Steubenville, Ohio, Dec. 27.
Trouble
and distress are on all hands around us, and we scarcely know which way to look
for comfort. Banks nearly all
suspended, or discounting their own paper at ruinous rates.
Many thrown out of employment; manufactories stopping in every quarter,
and ruin and misery staring nearly all in the face.
Heaven only knows where all this folly of corrupt politicians and
fanatics will land us.
I do
not want Texas, or any of the other Southern States, to secede; but if Texas
does secede, I shall return posthaste to help to make hunting shirts and raise
wheat for the rangers.
This
is a picture of affairs in the great producing district of the Upper Ohio.
Return,
fair lady, immediately. Your
patriotic sentiments will be appreciated, and there is every prospect that your
services will be needed. If you do
not hasten, you will be out of the United States when you next set foot on Texas
soil.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 26, 1861, p. 2, c. 3
Milledgeville, Jan. 19.—The Ordinance for the immediate secession of
the State of Georgia passed to-day with the following vote:
Ayes 208; nays 80. Majority
119. There is great rejoicing throughout the State.
Guns are being fired, bells tolled, Lone Star flags unfurled to the
breeze, and every manifestation of joy at the welcome verdict.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 26, 1861, p. 2, c. 3
The Baton Rouge Advocate of the 15th, says Major Haskin,
U.S.A., with his command, vacated the Barracks on Saturday night, and left on
the steamer Magenta, Sunday morning for Cairo, where he will await orders at 12
o'clock on Sunday. The entire State
forces assembled, were marched into the Barracks ground to witness the hoisting
of the flag.
The old Banner with fifteen stars was run up on the flag staff.
The band meantime, playing the "Star Spangled Banner."
Gov. Moore and a portion of his staff, stood in the centre with uncovered
heads, while the ceremony was being performed.
The fifteen stars and stripes of the Southern States now wave over every
foot of federal ground in Louisiana.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 26, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
A grand ball will be given at Buaas Hall, on Tuesday, January 29, 1861, to the
members of the Legislature and the State Convention.
It will be a fine affair.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
January 26, 1861, p. 4, c. 3
A
Southern Marsellaise.
Ye sons of the South,
awake to glory!
Hark! Hark! what thousands bid you rise!
Your children, wives, and grandsires hoary,
Prevent their tears, and save their cries!
Shall hateful tyrants, mischief breeding,
With sectional hosts, a ruffian band,
Affright and desolate our land,
While peace and liberty lie bleeding!
To arms! to arms!
ye brave!
The avenging sword unsheath!
March on! march on! all
hearts resolved
On victory or death!
Now, now the dangerous
storm is rolling,
Which treacherous men confederate raise;
The dogs of faction loose, are howling,
And lo! our homes will soon invade.
And shall we basely view the ruin,
While lawless force with guilty stride
Spreads desolation far and wide,
With crimes and blood his hands imbruing!
To arms! to arms! etc.
O, Liberty! can man
resign thee,
Once having felt thy generous flame?
Can dungeons, bolts and bars confine thee,
Or threats they noble spirit tame?
Too long the South has borne, bewailing
That falsehood's dagger Northerns wield,
But freedom is our sword and shield,
And all their arts are unavailing.
To arms! to arms! etc.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 2, 1861, p. 1, c. 3
City
Hotel,
Mrs. E. H. Holman, Proprietress.
This
well known house is still open for the accommodation of the public, under its
old management. It has been
thoroughly refitted and prepared for the comfortable accommodation of its
patrons. No expense or trouble will
be spared in catering to the taste and appetite of every guest who may favor the
City Hotel with his or her patronage.
The
Proprietress hopes that the patronage which has hitherto been so liberally
bestowed will be continued. She
promises to those who may favor her with their patronage, neat and comfortable
rooms, attentive servants and a good table.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 2, 1861, p. 1, c. 4
Draw
Your Blades.
Draw your blades;
prepare for battle,
Ere the ruthless hosts are here;
Wait not till the sabre's rattle
Heralds war's red legions near.
Watchful ever, never dreaming,
With your armor girded on,
Firmly wait, with falchions gleaming,
And with all your banners streaming,
Till the foeman presseth on.
Let no dastard shade of
pallor
O'er your features, soldiers, spread.
Ye are favor'd sons of valor,
Off-spring of a noble dead.
Where the war steeds, wildly tramping,
Snuff and paw the gory ground,
Where the boldest foes are camping,
Where the hireling hordes are tramping,
There let Southern steel be found.
Pause not till the last
invader,
Reeling from our borders, flies;
Give no quarter--each crusader
Who would fly or falter, dies.
Let not Mercy, interceding,
Turn stern Justice from her path;
Look ye to your kindred bleeding,
Look where virtue, vainly pleading,
Sinks beneath the foeman's wrath!
Up! that ye may live in
story!
Rise! and prove your Spartan birth!
Bards shall sing ye "Sons of Glory!"
Patriots' tongues proclaim your worth.
Generations hence will name ye
Noblest of this stormy age,
And, tho' jealous foes defame ye,
Loyal hearts will ever claim ye,
Guardian of their heritage!
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 2, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
We rejoice to learn that on Saturday, 19th inst., a Lone Star
flag was raised in the neighborhood of Irish creek, De Witt City, at which time
a fine rifle company was raised, and the utmost enthusiasm prevailed.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 2, 1861, p. 3, c. 6
Blanco
County.
Mr. Editor:
The
perusal of a letter in your last Gazette aroused the ladies of Blanco city, and
its vicinity, and they assembled on the 22d, and raised the Lone Star flag.
Merrily their huzzas rang out as it proudly floated in the breeze
"alone in its glory." Should
Montgomery and his vile horde come and scatter desolation through these
beautiful vallies [sic], these heroic ladies will feel that they have done their
duty. * * *
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 2, 1861, p. 4, c. 3
Letter
from a Texas Lady
Mr. Editor
I meant something when I mentioned the condition of our bleeding
frontier. I meant to say to Texas
that they must come up to their support. I meant to say that we, who are now away from harm and
danger, should feel the trouble that they feel.
Their houses are burned; their men, women, and children, have been
butchered. We know it.
Shall we wait until the foray extends wider and farther—until other
victims are sacrificed? Texans in days long gone by did not wait for strong, positive
evidence that their countrymen suffered. Let
but a breath of alarm be bourne upon the breeze, and they stood by their arms.
They did not stand idle, but rushed with an impetuosity that well became
men in whose veins ran the spirit of love, sympathy, affection, protection and
freedom, to save their countrymen, their wives and children from danger. This was not called rashness then. Will you call it rashness now, and say wait a while and let
us find whether this is, or will yet
come, the overt act? Men of Texas!
you will not stand idle now. In
your patriotism you will send from your homes, your towns, cities and villages,
men, means and munitions to protect your people.
This Indian raid is but another way to harass our people, and much more
effectual than to incite our slaves to insurrection, who have been born among
us, raised up with us, and labored with us.
We cannot fear our slaves. Ten
strong arms and bold fronts would put a hundred to flight.
Let this cant of insurrection be passed by as a thing hatched up in the
frenzied brain of the fanatic. Let
us look to the white man who wears the livery of Plutus, for danger. Texas looks to her Lone Star for protection.
When she has again fluttered it in the breeze she will consult with the
freemen of the South how it is best to secure our safety.
Whatever that decision may be, our people must wait.
If we shall be mingled in a common union with the other fifteen States,
it is well with us. If our people
should see fit to live again under an independent Republic, we will submit.
If they say we will submit to the yoke that is placed upon us, be it so.
But I would even then plead with my countrymen to throw off the ties that
bind us; and tell them that other days found other men that would let the storms
and clouds of Heaven bury them in darkness; let the lightning be flung from
Jehovah's hand and strike them, rather than the degradation that would follow us
in the submission to this party and people, that now seek to grind us as dust
under their feet. I feel as
strongly as I have a hope of Heaven that He who rules over all things will smile
upon us. If the clouds come, the
lightnings flash, storms arise, He will scatter it as mist before the winds.
Shall we, who have loved our homes, and loved our country, and loved
God's people in every land and every clime that the breezes of Heaven have swept
over, be now left alone in the night? No! Not while a good and merciful God rules over us.
Not while he suffers the feelings of liberty to revel in our hearts.
Not until He sees fit to let cowering and abject servitude control us,
will we be led. No.
Men of Texas, look to your rights, look to your honors, look to your
homes, and to the little ones, and to their loving smiles that beam back to your
hearts. I know while you breathe
the breath of freemen, while you feel the soul stirring emotions that awakened
you to action in other days, you will be true to your country, and true to your
homes, and true to yourselves. I
hold my own being as but a grain in the hourglass, or as a mite in the scale,
that should weigh or count time against the honor of my country.
I appeal to you, Texans, as men or the sons of men who have borne the
banners of freedom aloft, will you stop now?
Will you reason when reason has become a folly, and wait until this land
shall be covered with feelings, sympathies and sentiments, that would weigh the
heart of free men and free women down in the dust?
Does the spirit that was breathed into your being by the God of nature,
by the God that rules over you, still dwell in your bosoms?
Have you now come upon the time when men's hearts shall fail, when their
souls shall be craven; when they have nothing to say, save let us have quiet and
we are content? God forbid!
You will come; you must come to
your country's standard. It has
been raised in other States. You
have here men, mothers and kindred that call upon you.
Will you stand still and let the clouds and gloom of night surround them?
There will be no gloom, there will be no night, if men of the South do
their duty. A bright day awaits us, but we must do what we can to bring
about that happy day. If we do all
that is in our power together, we of the South will have a time yet for
thanksgiving.
Austin, Dec. 30, 1860
Volumnia.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
February 9, 1861, p. 1, c. 5
The
ladies of Pensacola have organized themselves into a Military Aid Society, with
the following officers: president,
Mrs. Celestina Gonzalez; vice-president, Mrs. W. H. Judah; secretary, Mrs.
Samuel McClelland; treasurer, Mrs. Richard L. Campbell. The society is organized for the purpose of aiding the
Florida troops, who have not been entirely fitted out, owing to the hastiness of
their being ordered to Warrington. They
have already raised $1,200.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 2, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
The patriotic and enterprising citizens of Evergreen, in Washington
county, have erected in their village a lofty flag-staff, from the summit of
which floats a Lone Star banner, bearing upon its folds the honored name of Gen.
Jefferson Davis, the first President of the Southern Confederacy.
Hurrah for the noble old county of Washington.
Nobly has she spoken for the honor of our State.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 9, 1861, p. 1, c. 8
From
Port Sullivan.
Port Sullivan, Milam county, Texas,
Feb. 24, 1861.
[Correspondence of the Gazette.]
Editor
Gazette. Saturday, the 23d day of
Feb., has passed, and, I hope, will be looked back to by future generations to
come as one of the most glorious achievements that was ever won, either in the
field or anywhere else, by Texans. It
was quite a lively day in Port Sullivan. Our
generous old farmers provided one of the best barbecues I have ever had the
pleasure of partaking of. The
ladies, too, were out in large numbers, and at 12M. the ladies and gentlemen
convened at the old church to hear the speaking. On entering the church I was more impressed than ever with
the firmness and patriotism of Texan ladies.
Everything was fitted up in the most perfect manner, and on the right of
the speaker's stand was a Lone Star flag, bearing the name of L. T. Wigfall; on
the left one bearing the name of Jeff. Davis.
Mr. Carmon was called on to address the assemblage, and came forward and
for some thirty minutes held the audience spell-bound, reviewing the general
topics of the day, &c., when he closed amidst general applause and
exultation. Mr. Could, of Cameron,
was then called on, and spoke for some half hour, dwelling with great eloquence
and pathos, on the topics of the day, and mingled, too, with his ready wit and
criticism, caused an outburst of applause seldom witnessed in any assemblage.
To test the sentiment of the ladies of Port Sullivan and surrounding
country, Capt. Barton called on all the ladies in favor of secession to make it
know by rising to their feet. To
see who should be first on their feet was the greater struggle, for in an
instant every lady, even down to the girls of 8 or 10 years, were up; not one
kept her seat; they were all united. Singular,
is it not, how they love to unite. . . .
Very Respectfully,
Henry Pendarvis.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 9, 1861, p. 2, c. 1
Independence
Proclaimed.
On Monday last, a large majority of the delegates to the Convention
answered to their names. The
Secession Ordinance had been sustained by a vast majority of the people of
Texas. In accordance with their
decision, the Lone Star banner which had been presented to the Convention by the
ladies of Texas, was planted upon the dome of the Capitol, and was saluted by a
discharge of artillery. Another
handsome Lone Star flag was hoisted upon the roof of the Avenue Hotel.
The Gazette buildings were decorated with the same dear symbol of our
independence. It was presented to
us by our friend General John J. Good, in behalf of the ladies of Dallas. But high above all floated from the summit of the lofty staff
the magnificent banner above the site of the old Capitol.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 16, 1861, p. 1, c. 7
Hurrah
for San Augustine.
San Augustine, Feb. 28, 1861.
Mr.
Editor--Saturday was a glorious day for old, time-honored San Augustine.
The young of both sexes got up a beautiful procession, representing the
Southern States, which marched on horseback through the principal streets, and
finally halted in front of Chatlin's Hotel, where a beautiful Lone Star flag,
prepared by the young ladies of the place, was presented to the Redland Minute
Company No. 1, by Miss Martha Anderson, and received on the part of the company
by Thos. W. Blount, Esq., both native Texans.
Messrs. F. B. Sublett, S. B. Benley, R. F. Slaughter, and Hamilton
Montgomery, were successively called out, and replied in eloquent and
appropriate speeches. The procession then moved to the Courthouse, gave three
cheers for the Long Star flag, and such of the gentlemen composing the
procession as were eligible, deposited their votes "for secession."
I
participated in the procession, and had the honor of bearing the banner of
Maryland. The banner of Tennessee
was clothed in mourning, but hopes were expressed that she would yet come right.
The young ladies composing the procession were repeatedly cheered by the
citizens along the line of march. After
partaking of a sumptuous barbecue, the people dispersed in good order, well
pleased with the result of the day's labor. . . .
Your obedient servant,
B. F. Benton.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 16, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
GRAND BALL.--There will be a Grand Fancy Dress and Masquerade Ball at Buaas'
Hall on Tuesday evening, the 19th inst. Mr.
Buaas will do his utmost to make it a pleasant party.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 23, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
CALICO DRESS BALL.--There will be a calico dress ball at Buaas Hall on Tuesday
next, the 26th inst. We like this,
and only wish it could be a home-spun dressed ball.
Every body should be present.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 23, 1861, p. 1, c. 5
The
Confederate Congress.
The Flag of the Confederacy.
In consequence of their interesting nature, we give a report, rather
fuller than usual, of the proceedings of the Confederate Congress on the 5th
inst.:
Mr. Miles, of South Carolina—In consequence of having omitted to attend
to the matter on yesterday, I beg leave to submit the following:
The committee appointed to select a proper flag for the Confederate
States of America, beg leave to report—
That they have given this subject due consideration, and carefully
inspected all the designs and models submitted to them.
The number of these has been immense, but they all may be divided into
two great classes.
First, those which copy and preserve the principal features of the United
States flag, with slight and unimportant modifications.
Secondly, those which are very elaborate, complicated or fantastical.
The objection to the first class is that none of them, any considerable
distance, could be readily distinguished from the one which they imitate.
Whatever attachment may be felt, from association, for "the stars
and stripes," (an attachment which your committee may be permitted to say
they do not all share,) it is manifest that in inaugurating a new Government
from which we have withdrawn, with any propriety, or without encountering very
obvious practical difficulties, there is no propriety in retaining the ensign of
a Government which, in the opinion of the States composing the Confederacy, had
been so oppressive and injurious to their interests as to require their
separation from it. It is idle to
talk of keeping the flag of the United States when we have voluntarily seceded
from them. It is superfluous to
dwell upon the practical difficulties which would flow from the fact of two
distinct and probably hostile Governments, both employing the same or very
similar flags. It would be a
political and military solecism. As
to "the glories of the old flag," we must bear in mind that the
battles of the Revolution, about which our fondest and proudest memories
cluster, were not fought beneath its folds.
And, although, in more recent times—in the war of 1812, and in the war
with Mexico—the South did win her fair share of glory and shed her full
measure of blood under the guidance and in its defence, we think the impartial
page of history will preserve and commemorate the fact more imperishably than a
mere piece of striped bunting, when the Colonies achieved their independence of
the "mother country, (which up to the last they fondly called her,) they
did not desire to retain the British flag or anything at all similar to it.
Yet under that flag they had been planted, and nurtured, and fostered.
Under that flag they had fought in their infancy for their very existence
against more than one determined foe; under it they had repelled and driven back
the relentless savage, and carried it further and further into the decreasing
wilderness as the standard of civilization and religion; under it the youthful
Washington won his spurs in the memorable and unfortunate expedition of
Braddock, and Americans helped to plant it on the heights of Abraham, where the
immortal Wolfe fell covered with glory in the arms of victory.
But our forefathers, when they separated themselves from Great
Britain—a separation not on account of their hatred of the English
Constitution or of the English institutions, but in consequence of the
tyrannical and unconstitutional rule of Lord North's administration, and because
their destiny beckoned them on to independent expansion and achievement-—cast
no lingering, regretful looks behind. They
were proud of their race and lineage, proud of their heritage in the glories and
genius and language of old England, but they were influenced by the spirit of
the motto of the great Hampden, "Vestigis nulia retrorsam."
They were determined to build up a new power among the nations of the
world. They therefore did not
attempt "to keep the old flag." We
think it good to imitate them in this comparatively little matter, as well as to
emulate them in greater and more important ones.
The committee, in examining the representations of the flags of all
countries, found that Liberia and the Sandwich Islands had flags so similar to
that of the United States, that it seemed to them an additional, if not in
itself a conclusive reason, why we should not "keep," copy or imitate
it. They felt no inclination to
borrow, at second hand, what had been pilfered and appropriated by a free negro
community and a race of savages. It
must be admitted, however, that some thing was conceded by the committee to what
seemed so strong and earnest a desire to retain at least a suggestion of the old
"stars and stripes." So
much for the mass of models and designs, more or less copied from, or
assimilated to, the United States flag.
With reference to the second class of designs—those of an elaborate and
complicated character—(but many of them showing considerable artistic skill
and taste)—the committee will merely remark that however pretty they may be,
when made up by the cunning skill of a fair lady's fingers in silk, satin, and
embroidery, they are not appropriate as flags.
A flag should be simple, readily made, and, above all, capable of being
made up in bunting. It should be different from the flag of any other country,
place or people. It should be
significant. It should be readily
distinguishable at a distance. The
colors should be well contrasted and durable, and, lastly, and not the least
important point, it should be effective and handsome.
The committee humbly think that the flag which they submit combines these
requisites. It is very easy to
make. It is entirely different from
any national flag. The three colors
of which it is composed, red white and blue, are the true Republican colors.
In heraldry they are emblematic of the three great virtues, of valor,
purity and truth. Naval men assure
us that it can be recognized and distinguished at a great distance. The colors contrast admirably, and are lasting.
In effect and appearance, it must speak for itself.
Your committee, therefore, recommend that the flag of the Confederate
States of America shall consist of a red field with a white space extending,
horizontally, through the center, and equal in width to one-third of the width
of the flag; the red spaces, above and below, to be of the same width as the
white; the Union blue extending down through the white space and stopping at the
lower red space; in the center of the union, a circle of white stars
corresponding in number with the States in the Confederacy.
If adopted, long may it wave over a brave, a free, and a virtuous people.
May the career of the Confederacy, whose duty it will then be to support
and defend it, be such as to endear it to our children's children as the flag of
a loved, because a just and benign, Government, and the cherished symbol of its
valor, purity and truth.
Respectfully submitted,
Wm. Porcher Miles, Chairman.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
March 30, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
On Friday next, the fifth of April, there will be a grand ball at Buaas Hall.
It will be the last ball of the season.
Every one should attend.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
April 6, 1861, p. 2, c. 1
Blanco, Texas, C.S.A., March 31, '61.
Ed. Gazette.
Although we were rather bashful and backward in retiring from the old
Union, the flag of the Confederate States is flying here, with its red, white
and blue.
Yours truly,
One of the 5,000,000.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
April 20, 1861, p. 2, c. 7
Cameron.—Hon. Stephen Powers, on the part of the ladies of Brownsville,
has presented a flag of the Confederate States to the volunteer corps in Fort
Brown.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
April 27, 1861, p. 3, c. 4
Galveston.—The Civilian says that Miss M. E. Hopkins, of that city, was
the first subscriber to the Confederate loan.
She took six hundred dollars for the Baptist Sewing Society.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 4, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
Capt.
H. Harrison and J. H. Earle, Esq., of Waco, were in our city the past week.
They report the Indians as quiet at present.
We learn from Capt. Harrison that the men in Northern Texas who have been
opposing the action of Texas in favor of the South, and who have had secret
complicity with the Black Republicans, are now leaving the State.
Some one hundred and twenty wagons were seen wending their way to the
North.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 11, 1861, p. 1, c. 8
Presentation
of Banner.
We
give below the addresses on the presentation of a Banner to Captain Carter's
Company, on Saturday evening, April 27.
AUSTIN, April 27, 1861
Miss D. S. Crozier to the Austin City Light Infantry.
On the
eve of your departure for the seat of war, to undergo the perils and hardships
of a soldier's life, I beg leave to present you the flag of our country.
As yet but seven stars adorn the blue field of our banner, but have we
not every reason to know that when our Congress shall assemble at Montgomery on
Monday next, that Virginia will be at our national capitol, asking to add one
more star to the flag of the Confederate States of America?
Virginia patriotism, which added so much lustre on the battle ground in
the days of '76, will again be in the filed, ready to contribute her full share
of soldiers in defence of the South.
I
trust, soldiers, that my partiality for the State which contains the remains of
the Hero of the Hermitage, has not led me to indulge in a vain hope that she,
too, will be with us at no distant day. The
noble response to Mr. Lincoln's Secretary of War from Governor Harris, when a
call was made on him for two thousand volunteers, 'that Tennessee had no
soldiers for the North, but would readily furnish fifty thousand volunteers for
her sister States of the South," gives us assurance that the resting place
of Jackson has no sympathy for the North, but will contribute from all her
borders her full quota of gallant soldiers to aid the South in the present
struggle. The spirit which animated
her Trousdale and Pillow, her Anderson and Campbell, her Cheathams and Fosters,
on the battlefield of Mexico, will bring together from that State an army which
will render efficient service when duty calls.
Before
"the harvest is past or the summer ended," twice the space now
occupied by the stars in the blue field will be required to number the
Confederate States of America.
Soldiers! duty calls you to leave
your families, relatives and friends; to exchange the quiet and comforts of
home, for the troubles and ills of camp life.
May that God whose eye is over all his works, protect you, and grant you
a happy return to those who will ever feel a deep interest in your welfare, and
offer their daily prayers for your safety, and the success of the cause in which
you have embarked.
------
Captain
Carter replied as follows:
Miss D. S. Crozier
I have
been commissioned by the "Austin City Light Infantry" to accept in
their name the beautiful flag you have presented them, and to assure you of
their appreciation of such a gift. A
soldier should need no other incentive to duty than devotion to his country, yet
to be entrusted by the hand of beauty with the ensign of his native land, will
give strength to his arm and revive his drooping spirits in the hour of trial.
Upon the weary march, and while treading the lonely rounds of his
midnight watch, his heart will be cheered with the assurance that the sympathies
of his countrywomen are with him, and that nightly there ascends from every
hearthstone, prayers to Heaven from the lips of innocence in his behalf; and
should it be our fortune to meet the enemies of our country on the field of
battle, with that flag floating over us, who would not nobly dare to die beneath
its folds?
On
behalf of the company, I thank you for this flag, and give you a soldier's
pledge that it shall be preserved as pure and unsullied as the cause we serve.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 11, 1861, p. 3, c. 3
Goliad--The ladies of this county were to hold a meeting on the 29th ult., for
the purpose of pledging themselves to discard all extravagance in dress, so long
as the country is involved in war.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 11, 1861, p. 3, c. 2
Galveston.--The ladies of the Sea-Girt City have held a fair, to procure means
to assist the military companies.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 11, 1861, p. 4, c. 1
Our townsman, Mr. J. B. Dibbrel, informs us that he purchased while in
New Orleans, "Lowells" of Texas manufacture, the best he ever saw.
The cloth was made at Huntsville, Walker county—sent off to New
Orleans, and then bought to be reshipped to Texas.—Seguin Southern
Confederacy.
With a little more enterprise, the Penitentiary officers might have saved
this round about trip, by having an agent in our western country for the sale of
Lowells.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 18, 1861, p. 2, c. 6
Fitting out of Volunteers.—Col. George W. Lay, late aid-de-camp to Gen.
Scott, but now aid to the Governor of Virginia, has published a card, in which
he makes the following seasonable suggestions in regard to the fitting out of
volunteers:
The State can furnish only the equipments of primary necessity, in which
are not included by regulation many small articles that are almost
indispensable, such as tin cups, sheath knives, materials for sewing, with which
every Russian soldier is furnished by his government, brushes, spare buttons,
shoe-strings, tape, etc. Each man
will have to keep his own clothes in order.
One of the best securities for health in case the soldier will be content
to adopt a precaution everywhere counseled by the highest surgical authority, is
the wearing of a flannel belt next the skin, from the waist to the hips, so tied
as to lap well in front. A
soldier's greatest liability to disease is from exposure to wet, and to change
of temperature, producing rheumatic or intestinal suffering.
The flannel belt, closely wrapped, keeps the loins and abdomen at a
nearly uniform temperature, which the loose shirt will not effect.
This belt has been required to be worn by British troops in the West
Indies for many years, and was prescribed in the French and English armies in
the Crimea, and considered equally important in hot and cold weather against
dysentery and rheumatism. The
material costs little, and one lady could make up a number of belts in a day.
Gaiters of linen duck or light cloth—a material that will wash is
best—to fasten over shoes or ankle boots, will, by keeping out the dust,
prevent the feet from chafing, and not only increase the comfort but the
rapidity and endurance of marching. The
color should be white, or very light, to keep out heat.
The experience of the French, the best marching army in the world, has
caused these gaiters to be adopted as a part of the regulation equipment.
They are, however, of less importance than the belts.
To every company leaving for the field a suitable quantity of such small
comforts might be furnished at a trivial expense.
A small package of tea, and one of citric acid, for light cases of
sickness, when separated from hospital stores, might be added; but nothing
should be allowed that is of weight, and would burthen the small means of
transportation furnished for camp equipage, etc.
Col. Lay also accompanies these suggestions with another excellent one,
that societies be formed in each town off the State for the purpose of providing
the means and personally attending to the important service to our brave
volunteers.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 18, 1861, p. 2, c. 6
Patriotism.
We
take the subjoined extract from the Trinity Advocate, and commend it to our
people generally. It is but one of
many other instances where the citizens of Texas have contributed liberally to
the arming and equipping of volunteers. It
must not be forgotten that at this day every patriot should contribute, either
by personal service or by donations of means towards the defence of his country.
Every man should and will do his part.
The ladies themselves will not be wanting in patriotism.
They will prepare clothing and tents for the soldiers, and by their noble
example stimulate the energies of the men.
We will soon hear the fife and the drum of the brave volunteers of
eastern Texas. We already hear the
inspiring voice of her fair daughters equipping them for the battle.
Our
State Government is powerless without the active co-operation of the masses,
but, thank heaven, that co-operation is reaching it through a thousand different
channels. Every man seems to be
desirous of making some sacrifices for his country's good.
We like
that sort of patriotism which comes down with the dollars, when the common
country is in danger, and the liberality of our people cannot be too highly
commended. By private subscription
the company raised in this county is furnished with a handsome new uniform, with
tents, camp utensils, transportation to any point in the State, knapsacks,
provisions, etc., etc., a complete outfit, except guns, which cannot be obtained
here. The ladies, may Heaven's
choicest blessings rest upon them, enrolled themselves into a Dorcas sewing
society, and have labored incessantly for more than a week past in preparing the
clothes and tents for their defenders, who have volunteered to leave home, its
comforts and associations, and their relatives and friends, to march to the
defence of the honor and interests of their country.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 18, 1861, p. 2, c. 6
Advice to Volunteers.—How to Prepare for the Campaign.—A writer who
signs himself "An Old Soldier," gives the following advice to young
soldiers:
1. Remember that in a
campaign, more men die from sickness than by the bullet.
2. Line your blanket with
one thickness of brown drilling. This
adds but four ounces in weight and double the warmth.
3. Buy a small India rubber
blanket to lay on the ground, or to throw over your shoulders when on guard
during a rain storm. Most of the
eastern troops are provided with these. Straw
to lie on is not always to be had.
4. The best military hat in
use is the light colored soft felt; the crown being sufficiently high to allow
space for air over the brain. You
can fasten it up as a continental in fair weather, or turn it down when it is
wet or very sunny.
5. Let your beard grow, so
as to protect the throat and lungs.
6. Keep your entire person
clean; this prevents fevers and bowel complaints in warm climates.
Wash your body each day, if possible.
Avoid strong coffee and oily meat. Gen.
Scott said that the too free use of these, together with neglect in keeping the
skin clean, cost many a soldier his life in Mexico.
7. A sudden check of
perspiration by chilly or night air, often causes fever and death.
When thus exposed, do not forget your blankets.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 25, 1861, p. 3, c. 4
[Mississippi] The Brandon Republican learns from a gentleman from Newton
county, that the ladies of Newton Station have formed themselves into a military
company and have regular drills.—True Delta.
Alabama.—The Huntsville Advocate says that when two of the volunteer
companies of that place left for the seat of war, scores of slaves cried, and
begged to go and fight with and for their young masters.
About twenty were taken along.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 25, 1861, p. 4, c. 2
Hempstead, May 16, 1861.
The trip from Austin to Houston, threatens to be come a tedious and
protracted one. I left Austin on
Sunday, 11th inst., and did not reach LaGrange until one o'clock on
Monday evening. This is a distance
of only 80 miles and should be traveled in 13 hours.
We had, however, severe rains and very bad roads. Here,
at LaGrange, I was detained until Tuesday night at eight o'clock, in consequence
of the non-arrival of the Brenham stage. The
passengers by Monday's stage at Austin, reach here before those who came down on
the previous Sunday stage depart. And
there is no better connection with the Columbus Railroad.
I should have had to remain still a day longer to have gone by way of
Columbus to Houston. And now here is Wednesday, and I am only in Hempstead, and
have again to lie over a day for the Houston cars—the latter only now running
tri-weekly. It is to be hoped that
closer connections will be made by the Stage and Railroad lines.
The present delays are an abuse which severely falls upon the purse and
patience of the traveling public, while our State mails are all chaos. . . .
Some idea of the excitement may be gathered from the fact that just
before starting from LaGrange, I saw a large collection of citizens at the
Postoffice, anxious to hear the last news by mail.
Soon one of the crowd appeared with a late paper, but there was no light
to read by. The idea suggested
itself of taking the Stage light, and while the Stage was waiting for the mail
down the country, the crowd had unhitched our lamp and were holding it up in
their midst while one of the citizens read from the paper in a loud voice all
the telegraphic dispatches. Sometimes the speaker would come to the price of cotton and
flour. Here he would be interrupted
with cries of "Pass over that!" Then
he would stumble upon some paragraph of foreign news.
The anxious remark would invariably be "Never mind that!
Give us the war news!" Sometimes
a bell would be rung to give expression to the feeling, and at last before we
got out of town, nearly all the bells in it were ringing as if the town was on
fire. . .
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 25, 1861, p. 4, c. 1
BEXAR.--A ball in compliment to Col. Van Dorn came off at the Menger Hotel on
the 14th inst. It was a brilliant
affair.
Maltese goats are selling at ten dollars per head.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
May 25, 1861, p. 4, c. 2
Important to Volunteers.—Adjutant General Heth, of the Virginia Army,
publishes in the Richmond Enquirer, the following valuable suggestions to
volunteers:
Officers' messes in the field should never consist of more than four
persons—preferably three. Large
messes are inconvenient.
Company officers should always mess together; by this arrangement, when a
company is detached, no inconvenience will be experienced.
Each officer should provide himself with an India rubber blanket or a
piece of tarred canvass to wrap around his bedding and keep off moisture.
At least two servants to a mess of four.
Articles required for a mess of four:
2 Champagne baskets, covered with coarse canvass, with two leather straps
with buckles.
4 Tin plates.
4 Tin cups (in a nest.)
6 Bags, holding from half a gallon to one gallon each, with strings at
the top to tie. These bags are for
sugar, coffee, salt, &c.
1 Camp kettle, large size; 1 Bake oven; 4 Tin dishes; 1 Iron pot; 1
Frying pan; 1 Table, made after pattern; 4 Camp stools; 1 Water bucket; 1
Lantern; 1 Coffee-mill; 4 Spoons, large; 1 Tin box with cover for salt; 1 Tin
pepper box; 2 Butcher knives; 2 Large kitchen spoons; 2 Tin dippers; 1 Tea-pot.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 1, 1861, p. 4, c. 5
A Noble Response.--The Clinton (East Feliciana) Patriot, of the 4th, relates the
following:
As the
volunteers were moving out on Monday at Port Hudson, a gentleman approached a
beautiful young lady, who stood watching their departure, through a profusion of
tears, and said, "Good morning, Miss ____: are you bidding farewell to a lover--who is it?"
She turned her eyes upon him, and replied, "Who is my lover?
Every man in a blue shirt--yes, every soldier in the command, from the
gallant captain to the last name on his list, is my lover, and graven on my
heart is their every likeness, in images of true and daring men--bold and
gallant defenders. For such lovers
should I not weep?"
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 8, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
A large meeting of the citizens of Austin, was held at the Capitol last
Wednesday evening, the object of which, was to provide for the equipment of the
volunteer companies raised and being raised in this city.
Many ladies honored the meeting with their presence.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 8, 1861, p. 3, c. 2
WALKER.--The Item publishes the following extract from Mrs. Margaret McDonald,
of that county, to her brother. It
breathes the spirit of patriotism throughout:
AT HOME, April 24, 1861.
DEAR BROTHER: *
* *
* *
James
is just this moment from Huntsville, and brings so much war news that I am
terribly excited. The news in
Huntsville is, that Lincoln has landed troops at Indianola, and that he is going
to send enough to march through and take the country.
James
says the people are leaving Huntsville daily for the army, and many others
preparing to go. I shall send James
back to Huntsville to-morrow, to get him an outfit, as he too must go.
He is anxious to go wherever he may be needed.
* *
*
Subscriptions are being raised to arm and equip all those that are not able to
do so themselves. Heaven knows I am
not only willing but anxious to do all in my power for the defence of our cause.
Affectionately, your sister,
Margaret McDonald.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 8, 1861, p. 3, c. 3
A fair
was recently gotten up in Galveston, by the ladies, for the benefit of the
military, at which the sum of $2,344 95 was realized.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
The Ladies' Needle Battalion, of this city, numbering about one hundred, was
organized on the evening of the 6th inst., and has been actively at work making
uniforms for the volunteers ever since. The
following are the officers of the battalion:
Mrs.. J. C. Darden, President; Mrs. Geo. W. White, Mrs. Edw.
Clark, Mrs. S. A. Crosby, Vice Presidents; Miss Ella Rust, Secretary; Mr.
W. G. Maynard, Assistant Secretary.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 3, c. 1
A
military meeting was held at the Capitol on last Tuesday evening.
It was the largest, most harmonious and enthusiastic we have ever
attended in Austin. Gen. Thomas
Green presided, and Messrs. J. C. Darden, J. Q. St. Clair and Sam. J. Wood acted
as Secretaries. The object of the
meeting was to receive reports of committees appointed at a previous meeting,
and to provide further means to equip volunteers for service.
Excellent, entertaining and instructive addresses were delivered by Col.
A. R. Crozier, N. G. Shelley, Esq., Col. J. P. Neal and E. W. Cave, Esq.
This
meeting called out the largest array of the beauty of Austin that we have ever
seen assembled in this city. They,
at least, are a unit in favor of Southern union, and thoroughly aroused to a
sense of the dangers that surround us; and we can announce to our readers that a
revolution in public sentiment is now going on daily. Prejudices are being overcome under the inspirations of
patriotism, and the countenance, encouragement, and approving smiles of the
women of Austin. It will not be
long until the disaffected leaders of the opposition will have the honor of
enjoying in the future the glory of their political "deep damnation."
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 4, c. 1. [Summary:
words to "Southrons, Hear Your Country Call You" to the tune of
Dixie]
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 4, c. 1
NEW USE FOR HOOPS.--A correspondent of the Cincinnati Enquirer writes the
following:
Women,
Pistols and Strategy!--Abolition Republicans are frightened at the shadow of a
ghost, as was Lieutenant Jones at Harper's Ferry, and Commodore Pendergrast at
Norfolk, the proof of which is now historic record. Let such men know that a fierce and bloody rencounter [sic]
awaits them, when, I tell you that over two hundred of the finest Colt's
revolvers I ever saw have been purchased in Cincinnati, at various times and
places, within the last two weeks, (no thanks to the Eggleston vigilance mob)
and conveyed out of the city under the hoops of one of the fairest and most
distinguished of Kentucky's daughters, and sent by trusty agents to her friends
in the interior of the State. Oh,
crinoline, thou art a jewel!
A Kentucky Subscriber.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 4, c. 3
White-Wash Recipe.—The following is the recipe for making the
white-wash used on the White House at Washington:
Take half a bushel of nice unslaked lime, slak it with boiling water,
covering it during the process to keep in the steam.
Strain the liquor through a small sieve or strainer, and add to it a peck
of clean salt, previously dissolved in warm water—three pounds of ground rice
previously mixed to a thin paste and stirred in while hot; half a pound of
powdered Spanish whiting, and one pound of clean glue, which has been previously
dissolved by soaking it well, and then hanging it over a slow fire in a small
kettle within a larger one filled with water; add five gallons of hot water to
the whole mixture, stir it well and let it stand a few days covered from the
dust. It should be put on quite
hot; for the purpose it can be kept in a kettle on a portable furnace.
It is said that about one pint of this mixture will cover a square yard
upon the outside of a house if properly applied.
Brushes more or less fine may be used, according to the neatness of the
job. It retains its brilliance for
many years. Coloring matter may be
used. Spanish brown stirred in,
will make a red or pink, more or less deep, according to the quantity; lampblack
in moderate quantities makes a slate color, very suitable for the outside of
buildings. Yellow ochre, stirred
in, makes a yellow wash, but chrome goes further, and makes a better color.
Green must not be mixed with the lime, the lime destroys the color and
makes the whitewash crack and peel off. Where
the walls are badly smoked, and you wish to have a clear white, it is well to
squeeze in indigo, and stir into the whole mixture.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 15, 1861, p. 4, c. 5
The man who, to make a show of chivalry, would wantonly provoke a war, the
horrors of which must fall upon his wife and children, is unworthy to have a
wife and children.--Louisville Journal.
The man who would not defend his wife and children against the infamous party
that has inaugurated a war to make negroes their equals, is not fit to have a
wife and children.--San Antonio Herald.
Volunteers Remember
This--To rub common hard soap well in the threads of stockings before putting
them on for a long march, is recommended as a preventive to the ordinary foot
soreness and blistering which occurs to those not used to traveling.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 22, 1861, p. 3, c. 2
The ladies of Hempstead have this week formed a society for the purpose of
making up such articles as will be needed for the companies now formed in our
town, when they shall be called into the field.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 22, 1861, p. 3, c. 3
The brave ladies of Carroll county, Kentucky, the residence of General William
O. Butler, petitioned the legislature to furnish them with arms to defend the
men and children, who were afraid to defend themselves.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 22, 1861, p. 3, c. 3
Volunteers should provide themselves with a small oil-silk bag, in which
to carry a wet sponge. It can be
used with comfort in cleansing the mouth, ears, nose and eyes of dust.
If the weather is very warm, the sponge should be carried in the cap, and
there will then be no danger of sun stroke.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE,
June 22, 1861, p. 4, c. 1
Interesting to Housewives.--Fly time is now fairly upon us, and these
troublesome little insects are as much of a nuisance as the Black Republican
army in St. Louis. The weapon
wherewith to repel this invasion may be found in the following, which we find in
an exchange:
Take
three or four onions and boil them well in a pint of