FORT SMITH NEW ERA
1865
[skips to January 21, 1865, from vol. 2, issue no. 9 to
vol. 2, issue no. 10]
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, January 21, 1865, p. 3, c. 1
The Late Order of
Evacuation.
Incidents
Connected With It.
Its Revocation.
As is now well known, an order was received here about a month ago, by
District Head Quarters, from General Canby, directing the evacuation of this
District by the Federal troops who have held it since September, 1863.
It may well be imagined that it produced great consternation, bordering
on despair, among the loyal portion of the people.
Nobody was prepared for such a contingency as it was entirely unexpected
and fell like a thunderbolt from a serene sky.
Of the cause of this order we will not speak, leaving every one to
surmise for himself. It is true but
little positive good to the cause, though not for a lack of good will on the
part of the loyal people, had resulted from the occupation of North Western
Arkansas, and it was also somewhat difficult at times to forward the necessary
supplies. But the moral effect of
abandoning a large tract of country held so long by the Federal arms and making
Kansas and Missouri again the border would have been very damaging, to say
nothing of the positive injury it would inevitably have inflicted upon those
States; and with proper attention on the part of those charged with forwarding
supplies, there would have been no need of suffering here on that account.
Five boats coming up from below shortly after the order became known,
they were speedily filled to their utmost capacities by terrified men, women and
children, all anxious to flee from the cruel fate that would await them under
rebel rule. Quite a number took
advantage of a train returning to Kansas and sought safety in that direction.
The remaining people, which were still very numerous, made most energetic
preparations to get away with the troops and devised various expedients for
doing so. All who could, prepared
teams, and quite a number was engaged in building flat boats in which they
contemplated to float down the "raging Arkansaw" and seek safety
beyond these bloody grounds. Of
those who had gone off on the boats many had left behind comfortable homes
completely furnished, and being unable to take with them much more than what was
most urgently needed, they were compelled to leave it uncared for, or sell it at
a mere song.
As to the apprehension, to be unable to get away, felt by a great many,
we will incidentally remark that it was entirely unnecessary, having been
assured ourselves by the General Commanding the District, that no one should be
left behind that did not choose to do so.
There still remained a spark of hope that the united efforts of the State
Executive, our Congressional Delegation, and other influential persons to obtain
a reversal of the order would prove successful in view of its questionable
judiciousness, and the heroic efforts of the doomed District in support of the
Government. At last, and just in
the nick of time, information was received here from Fayetteville, telegraphed
thither from Washington, that the order had been revoked.
It created a joyful sensation among those who were loth to give up their
homes. But still several days of
anxious suspense elapsed before the information was corroborated, and even then,
provisions being nearly all exhausted, the danger was not fully averted unless
supplies arrived. This last
obstacle was finally also happily removed by the arrival of abundant supplies,
as noted elsewhere.
Gen. Halleck had, previous to the reception of the order of revocation
itself, informed Gen. Thayer, the District Commander, of the fact, and in due
time it arrived from Gen. Grant, through Department Head Quarters.
Our citizens will now again feel more at ease and with renewed energy
seek to improve their condition and obliterate, as much as lies in their power,
the ravages inflicted by war. Of
those who left so precipitately many will be sorry for having done so and we
hope we will soon see again many a familiar face now absent.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, January 21, 1865, p. 3, c. 2
Prisoners Exchanged.
Information has reached here that the Federal prisoners confined at
Tyler, Texas, have been duly exchanged. Their
rapturous joy, on being informed of the glad tidings, is said to have been
indescribable. They produced the
stars and stripes, which some patient sufferer had fondly preserved, and waved
them proudly over their heads. They
were sent to New Orleans. Among
them were many belonging to the army of the Frontier and had fallen in rebel
hands at the battle at the Saline river and other engagements in the late Camden
expedition.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, January 28, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Shall We Have Any Gardens This Year?
It is painful to witness the indiscriminate destruction of fences, fruit
trees, shrubbery, etc., all over town. This
vandalism is mostly perpetrated by families from the country who have moved to
town for protection and who have taken possession of houses lately vacated by
their owners.
In another month or less the usual time for gardening will have arrived.
The health of the people and troops will necessarily suffer for the want
of the accustomed vegetable diet, if steps are not taken to put an end to this
wanton destruction. There is no doubt that numbers of men and women would at once
prepare for the approaching gardening season, if they had but some assurance
that they were to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The pernicious practice of hauling fence rails from the
adjoining farms to town for fuel, which was inaugurated more than a year ago, is
again carried on to some extent this winter, when there is an abundance of the
best wood within less than a mile from town.
Every one of these rails will soon be needed, or out to be, at least,
for we do not see why the farms in the immediate vicinity of the town cannot be
cultivated.
We hope the town and country adjoining have seen the day of severest
trial and may begin to look up again for a better future.
It is at least worth a trial.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 2
The ladies of Honolulu, Sandwich Islands, have contributed nearly two
thousand dollars for the benefit of the United States Christian Commission.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 3
Shocking
Affair—Women Tortured—
Robbery, Murder
& Arson—A "Reverend" in
Irons, etc., etc.
Six heavily ironed prisoners came up on the Lotus, day before yesterday,
from Clarksville, among whom was G. W. Hutchinson, formerly Chaplain of the 1st
Kansas Colored Inft. The names of
the other five are W. B. Farmer, Co. A, 1st Ark. Cav., R. H. Atwell,
Co. F, 2d Kans. Cav., John Sharks, Co. A, 2d Ark. Inft., John Hudson, citizen,
and C. O. Kimball, citizen, formerly of the 2d Kans. Cav., and more recently a
Lieutenant of the 2d Ark. Infantry.
Ex-Chaplain Hutchinson, who resigned his position in the army some time
last spring, in order to follow the real bent of his inclinations with more
leisure, stands charged with heavy swindling operations upon the Government and
people. How far he is incriminated
with the deeds of the other prisoners cannot be ascertained yet until a more
thorough investigation of the whole case.
The other prisoners stand charged with torturing four respectable ladies
over a slow fire till they were horribly mutilated about their heads, shoulders
and feet and with ravishing them, from the effects of which one died and the
others were made cripples for life. One
of the prisoners also stands charged with additional crimes upon the body of one
of the victims which pen would shudder to record.
The object of the cruel wretches was to obtain some money, a considerable
amount of which these ladies were supposed to have in their possession.
They lived about 75 miles below this place, in the vicinity of
Clarksville. Three of the
unfortunate victims are now at the latter place under medical treatment.
Their houses were also burned down.
Information was received here day before yesterday, that seven other
persons had been put in irons at Clarksville, charged with being accomplices in
the above crimes.
We give the details of this horrid affair as we received them from the
officer who conducted the preliminary investigation at Clarksville.
A full trial will undoubtedly develop all the facts in the case and
justice be fully meted out.
Ex-Chaplain Hutchinson and c. O. Kimball were removed to Little Rock,
yesterday, on board the Lotus.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 11, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
The Mass Meeting.
Pursuant to the notice previously given, a large assembly filled the
spacious rooms of the Methodist Church at 2 P.M., last Thursday, and after a few
pointed and eloquent remarks from Judge Milor, the convention was organized by
electing Wm. H. Byers to the Chair and James Edmondson Secretary, and proceeded
immediately to business by appointing a committee consisting of V. Dell, Judge
Milor, John Holleman, Asa Clark, Henry Pape, John Lucy and Judge Howard, to
draft resolutions expressing the object for which the call was made.
The committee submitted the following preamble and resolutions, which
were read by the chairman, V. Dell:
Whereas, The loyal people of the city of Fort Smith and vicinity, are now
and have been for a time past, to a considerable degree, destitute of the
necessaries of life from various causes, chief among whom is the appropriation
for the use of the army, of corn, wheat, beef, etc., and the want of protection
against guerrillas and other lawless persons, in carrying on farming operations;
and,
Whereas, It is not only the duty, but also the interest of Government, to
assist the truly loyal in retaining their foothold in the country, and thereby
contributing largely to the restoration of obedience to the laws of the United
States, and an early resumption of agriculture, trade and commerce; and,
Whereas, Western Arkansas has always signalized herself conspicuously in
her attachment to the Union, by the rallying of thousands of her sons to the
Standard of Liberty, and by the sacrifice of hundreds of others who fell victims
to rebel tyranny and unplacability simply for adhering to the cause of the
Government of their choice; therefore, be it
Resolved, That a memorial be forthwith addressed to the President of the
United States, setting forth the claims of the loyal people in these parts for
temporary but speedy succor in the days of their adversity, to-wit: Either to cause sufficient supplies to be brought to this
place, so as to allow citizens to purchase from the Commissary stores, without
curtailing the rations of the troops, or to order supplies to be shipped here by
Government agents, independent of the army, to be sold to the citizens under the
superintendence of persons of known loyalty and integrity and at a rate fully
reimbursing Government for the amount laid out.
Resolved, Further that the approval of the District Commander, the
Governor of the State and of the Department Commander be obtained to the
memorial.
Resolved, Further, that a committee of three be appointed by the chair to
prepare the memorial in accordance with the tenor of the above preamble and
resolutions, and that it be submitted to the committee on resolutions and the
President of the meeting, to be signed by the latter and the Secretary in behalf
of the meeting, and forwarded with all possible dispatch to its destination.
Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be forwarded to the Fort Smith
New Era and one each to the papers at Little Rock, for publication.
Pending the adoption of the resolutions an individual made some very
touching remarks about the famine in Scotland, (which, however, none but
the eloquent speaker ever heard anything of,) and went off rambling over
subjects that no one present cared anything about just then, till the meeting
gave such evident signs of displeasure that the gentleman had to collapse.
The preamble and resolutions were then unanimously passed, a committee of
three appointed, Messrs. Dell, Byers and Lucy, to prepare the memorial to
President Lincoln, after which the convention adjourned sine die.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 3
Bold Outrage.
A small party of bushwhackers, variously estimated at from eight to
twenty in number, seized a splendid team of grey horses, the property of Lieut.
S. S. Smith, Quartermaster 18th Iowa, on the road from this place to
Van Buren, on the afternoon of the 7th inst.
They took out the horses, leaving the wagon in the road, at the same time
allowing the driver to proceed on his way, unharmed, although the report at
first was, that he had been killed.
The robbers also unhorsed several women whom they met about the same time
and sent them off on foot.
This is a rather cool affair, when we consider that it was done in broad
daylight, between two towns only five miles apart and on the telegraph road, so
much frequented at all times.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 11, 1865, p. 3, c. 1
Returned from Rebel Prison.—A number of men of the command here, who
had been taken prisoner in the campaign last spring, came up from below this
week, after having been duly paroled. They
were received with demonstration of hearty welcome by their old companions in
arms.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 1, 1865, p. 3, c. 2
Memorial.
Fort Smith, Feb. 5th, 1865.
At a special meeting of the officers of the 12th Kansas Vol's,
convened at Fort Smith, Ark., on the 3d of Feb. 1865, the following preamble and
resolutions were adopted:
Whereas, On the 30th of April, 1864, Lieut. Col. J. E. Hayes,
12th Kans. Vols., while gallantly leading his Reg't against the enemy
at the battle of Jenkin's Ferry, was so severely wounded that his left thigh had
to be immediately amputated; and,
Whereas, The said Lieut. Col. Hayes was then captured, and is now held as
a prisoner of war, and has during the last nine months suffered the indignities
and privations to which our brave and patriotic soldiers have been subjected,
while in the hands of rebels, therefore be it
Resolved, That we, the officers of the 12th Kans. Vols.,
earnestly and most respectfully ask of Maj. Gen. J. J. Reynolds, Commanding
Department of Arkansas, that if consistent with his military duties, he will use
his efforts to effect the release or exchange of Lieut. Col. Hayes.
Resolved, That we cherish the hope that he will soon be restored to
liberty and be permitted to return once more to the fond embraces of his
companions in arms against the enemies of our country.
Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forthwith forwarded to Maj.
Gen. Reynolds, Commanding Department of Arkansas, through proper military
channels.
Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to forward copies of these
resolutions to the Fort Smith New
Era, Leavenworth Conservative, Leavenworth Times, and Olathe Mirror,
with a request for publication.
Surg. C. R. Stuckslager, Pres.
Capt. P. J.
Miserez, Sec.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Registration of Resident Citizens.—We were surprised, after the exodus
of the past year which took away so many thousands of people, to find the number
still remaining so large. Up to
noon yesterday 267 resident citizens gave their names at the Provost Marshal's
office, in accordance with an order to that effect, and the enrolling is still
going on at a brisk rate.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, February 25, 1865, p. 4, c. 1
[From the
Springfield (Ill.) Journal.]
Refugees from
Arkansas—Their Trip—
Shameful Treatment
by the Central
Railroad.
Messrs. Editors Journal:
In consequence of the order to evacuate Fort Smith, Ark., the Union
citizens were compelled to leave the place by whatever means they could procure.
Three boats were filled immediately and started to Little Rock, carrying
away, however, but a small number of those wanting to go.
When we reached Little Rock, we were ordered by Maj. Gen. Reynolds to
take charge of four hundred and seventy-eight of these people, including some
thirty orphan children, who were collected by chaplain Springer in the vicinity
of Fort Smith. The steamer R. J.
Lockwood was ordered to transport us to Cairo, Ill., and at the same time we
received an order on the Quartermaster's Department for "all necessary
transportation to Springfield, Illinois."
We started from Little Rock Jan. 1st, at 1 o'clock P.M.;
followed the Arkansas river to its mouth, thence to Memphis and Cairo. At the former place we had about one hundred persons crowded
into our already over packed boat. Of
the number now on board we had not fifty men all told, and as a general thing we
had the pleasure of commanding and executing our own orders.
The party were mostly helpless women and children, in a very destitute
condition, poorly clad, some barefoot, many without a change of clothes, few
enjoying robust health, and about sixty on sick report.
We reached Cairo Jan. 8th, where we found Mr. Stites, Refugee
Agent, and his kind lady, ready to assist us to the extent of their means.
They furnished us about two hundred dollars worth of clothing, which came
jus tin time to cover naked bodies that shield the little ones from the rude
blast of a Northern winter, for on the 9th we had a darkning [sic]
snowstorm.
Here we were most kindly assisted by Col. Sprague, commanding post, who,
by counsel and command, did all in his power to alleviate our suffering party.
His affectionate interest and christian-like sympathy endeared him to our
hearts.
At Cairo, about two hundred and fifty of the ablest on board parted from
us for different points in the West, leaving us about two hundred and
seventy-five, who afterwards divided into smaller companies.
We received transportation tickets on the Illinois Central railroad to
Macon only, though our order was to Springfield.
At 12, A.M., Jan. 11th, we were ordered off the Lockwood into
the depot of the I. G. R. R., and without help from the agents of the Road,
carried our baggage and helpless ones at least two hundred yards, up the wharf,
an inclination of near thirty degrees. When
we had piled all into the depot, we were informed that we could not start until
the next day. It being now night we
covered our sick and little ones with blankets and next morning found us all
alive, but with prospects gloomy before us. The snow at that time was four inches deep and the air cold.
We went to the agents to ask for comfortable cars for our sick at least,
but were coolly informed that such were for passengers only.
We insisted, but to no avail, though we had passenger car tickets in our
hands, and our party had procured over one hundred in all, of the same sort.
At 9 o'clock, A.M., we were ordered on board a train of box cars, without
stoves or any means of heating. Our
emaciated crew had not felt fire for the last twenty hours, and were shivering
with cold. To remain we saw no
help, to go was to suffer. The
order of the agent was urgent, particularly so, and we were piled in.
All on board the hog train, we moved on to the switch, where, with other
freight, we stood four hours. Set
off at 1 P.M., and in twenty-four hours we reached Richview, a station ninety
miles from Cairo. Here we were
again "switched off" to await the arrival and passing of passenger
trains. By this time four persons, two adults, widows, and two of our
orphan children, had perished with cold. Horrible
but true!
At Richview we asked the favor of making a little coffee for the
suffering, on the stove of Mr. Howard, the hotel keeper, but no entreaty of ours
could prevail, though we told him our children were freezing and starving. His stove like the comfortable cars, was occupied for regular
passengers. But, thank God, a
kind family assisted us.
At Centralia, we met with kind hearts, and our dead were taken for
interment. The agent of the road at
this point seeing our condition, condemned the agents at Cairo, in decided
terms, furnished us with a good locomotive, and a man who could drive it, and we
were hurried through to Decatur.
At daylight on the 14th we vacated the train and were
permitted by the proprietor of the Railroad Hotel, Mr. Slaughter, to put our
party into the ladies' sitting room of the depot.
When we came to unload we found a lady had perished, leaving three orphan
children, one of whom was only three months old.
This was now five who had perished in the Illinois Central Railroad box
cars.
We had now been forty-six hours in that terrible condition, under the
control of the Road.
We had not all of our party in the room before the kind people of Decatur
sprang to our relief and showered blessings on our suffering. Never did the tears of gratitude sooner dim our eyes than on
that morning. All that day the
ladies pressed their attentions upon us. God
bless them!
At six o'clock, P.M., we were furnished by Mr. Knap, the Superintendent,
with transportation and cars with already heated stoves, to Springfield, on the
G. W. R. R.
During our trip from Little Rock we had 13 deaths, one a crazy man,
leaped overboard and was drowned. Since
our arrival we are cheered by the kindness of your citizens who seem more
anxious to supply our wants.
The destitution of these people is great; they need food, clothes, home,
and your sympathies, but from what we have already seen, we are assured that
Springfield will be second to none in this good work of helping the poor.
We invite all to come and see the needs of these people for themselves.
J. H. Leard,
Chaplain and Agent for Refugees.
J. D. Wood,
As't Surg. 2d K. C. Infy in charge of sick.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 1
Sale of the Sanitary Sack.—The sack of Sanitary flour, which was sold
at the Merchant's Exchange yesterday for $3,775, was put up again to-day by the
last purchaser, and sold for $1,000, to M. S. Mepham, for the People's and
Merchant's Line or New Orleans Packets—a new line of magnificent boats that
will soon be ready to start regularly for the Crescent city.
The sack was again sold, and re-sold, realizing $1,600 this morning.
This money will all be appropriated to the benefit of the Soldier's
Orphans' Home.—St. Louis Dispatch.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 1
Partial Exemption of Refugees from Draft.—The War Department has
decided that when ever it has been clearly proved that refugees have been driven
away from their homes, and are but temporarily residing within the lines of the
Union army, they shall be exempt from draft.
Refugees who have voluntarily left the rebellious States, and taken up
their residence within our lines, shall not be allowed exemption from military
duty.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 3
The Following Explains Itself:
Office of the N. E. L. P. Society
}
Boston, Jan. 28th, 1865.
}
To the Editor of New Era, Fort Smith, Ark.
Sir:--The Directors of the New England Loyal Publication Society request
you to favor them with a reply to the following questions:
1. Have you made use of the
broadsides which the Society has heretofore sent you, in the making up of your
paper; and if so, have you made use of them frequently or seldom?
2. Are the opinions which
the Society has maintained in its publications generally acceptable in your
region?
3. What is the feeling in
your neighborhood in regard to the admission of the freed blacks to the rights
of citizenship?
Per order,
J. B. Thayer,
Secretary.
Here are our answers to the above questions:
1. We have made use of the
Society's broadsides frequently and have, besides, distributed occasionally a
little Greek fire of our own manufacture. Bye
the bye, we have not seen any of your "broadsides" for a considerable
time. Hope your guns are not
spiked.
2. They are decidedly so to
loyal men, but poison to rebels.
3. There are not many
darkies left here, nearly all the able-bodied men are carrying the musket and
the women and children have gone North.
But our own individual opinion concerning the admission of the freed
blacks to the right of suffrage (for that is really the badge of citizenship)
is, that the color of the skin should not be an obstacle, if the mind is
sufficiently elevated to exercise that right with safety.
Had there been more education among the masses in the South, the
instigators of this rebellion could never have bamboozled the mass of the people
into the suicidal step which they took.
For our own part we would advocate a certain mental standard to be
adopted for the privilege of taking part in the Government of the Nation, and we
do not hesitate in saying that a person incapable to write his own name, or to
read and understand plain print, had better go to his spelling book and copy
book, ere he give his time to matters of state.
We are in favor of making reading and writing the qualification necessary
for a voter, in place of the stupid, unchristian and barbarous distinction of
the color of the skin.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 3
The 13th Kansas Infantry will leave in a day or two.
We understand they are to be posted at St. Charles, on White river.
The 12th Kansas Infantry will be stationed at Little Rock on
Provost duty.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
Look Out for Them.—General Sanborn, commanding the District of
Southwest Missouri, has issued an order, enumerating the names of one hundred
and forty-eight persons, men and women, who, with their families, are
banished from the district. They
are ordered to remove to a distance of fifty miles from the boundaries of the
district, on or before the 10th of February.
The banished persons are accused of "feeding and harboring
bushwhackers."
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The Celebration of the 4th of March.
There will be a mass meeting of the loyal people of this city and
vicinity, this afternoon at 2 o'clock on the parade ground in the Garrison in
honor of the inauguration this day of Abraham Lincoln into the 2nd
term of the Presidential office, and the splendid victories lately achieved by
the National Armies. Let no citizen
or soldier fail to attend. A number
of speakers are expected to address the meeting, among them, Generals Bussey and
Edwards.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Provost Marshal's Circular.
We direct the attention of our readers to the above named document,
published in another column. The
necessity for at once establishing a rigid policing system, in and about town,
is very urgent, and unless the directions and orders contained in the Circular
are rigidly carried out, fatal diseases must inevitably follow with the
approaching warm weather. The
stench arising from the large number of dead horse, mules, etc., below Fort No.
4, is already so great that the residents in that neighborhood are greatly
annoyed by it.
Since writing the above, we understand that the latter nuisance is in
progress of being removed.
Seventy-five carcasses of horses, mules, etc., were tumbled into the
river yesterday and the remainder of the "breastwork," 56 ditto, will
have been disposed of ere the readers' eyes fall upon this.
The carcasses in other parts of the city have been buried 4 feet deep.
This diligent discharge of duty on the part of the Provost Marshal is
worthy of all commendation.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 3, c. 3
A Letter.
Fort Smith, March 2d, 1865.
Editor New Era:
Please permit me, through the columns of your paper, to say a few words
in relation to charges and specifications that have been alleged against me,
charging me with being a soldier in the Confederate army and being a spy in this
place, which is all a falsehood. There
are numbers of citizens and soldiers in and about this city that has known me
from my boyhood. At the time of the
rebellion here I done all in my power to keep out of the army, and when I left
the country I made my way into Mexico and it is a pleasant climate and well
adapted for vegetation, but seeing that the crowned heads of Europe are taking
hold of that country, I left it, for oligarchies I do despise.
I cast my lot in this country because it is a Republican government.
If I have enemies here they must be but few and far between.
I have no malice at no person whatever, but I would here say to my
enemies, if any I have, that the pigmy effort of a puny opposition is no more
regarded by me than the howling winds that whistle through the wintry trees, and
I would say in all sincerity and truth, "lay on McDuff and damned be him
who first cries hold, enough."
I will now close, by saying that I will again repeat that I have no
malice or animosity towards none of my fellow citizens.
I am loyal towards the Government of the United States, if I was
otherwise I would not be here. I
now close by saying I hope you will publish this for me, as I expect to pay you
for the same.
Michael McNamee.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 4, 1865, p. 3, c. 4
New Drug Store.
The undersigned has re-opened his Drug Store at his old stand, next door to the Post Office, and has on hand a
Fresh Lot of Choice Medicines,
Patent Medicines,
Perfumeries,"
Toilet Articles,
Stationery, &c.
Also Smoked Glass, for Sore and Weak Eyes.
Prescriptions carefully and scientifically put up.
J. E. Bennett, M. D.,
Late of the U. S. Army.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Another Sign of Returning Life.
Within the last eight or ten days we sent nearly $5,000 to the Commission
House of Jones & McDowell, at Little Rock, to be expended in procuring
supplies for this place, at the North. The
above amount was contributed by 26 families, thus averaging not far from $200 to
each family and goes to show that there are some means in the country yet and
that people are determined to stick to Fort Smith, in the hope of seeing better
times. Merchants of St. Louis or
Cincinnati, who, before the war, were so eager to secure the large trade of this
place, would probably find it to their interest to have their business made
known through the columns of the New Era.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Soldier's Gardens.
A portion of the rich lands of the Duval farm, below the city, has been
set apart for soldier's gardens. Each
company is to have ground enough to raise all they need in the vegetable line.
Gen. Bussey has telegraphed to St. Louis for seeds of all kinds,
including potatoes and they are already on the way to this place.
With full rations and plenty of garden stuff besides, the boys will have
a fine time and grow fat.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
Returning Feeling
of Security.
Improvement Began.
With the change for the better, of the Military Administration in this
section of our State, the signs of awakening enterprise and improvement are
visible everywhere.
The people, confident of being protected to the utmost extent of the
military authorities, are going in good earnest to make the surrounding country
smile once more in plenty. Several
companies have formed to take up and cultivate a large amount of the best land
in this and Crawford counties, and at the same time protect each other against
all trespassers.
J. B. Hollaman has organized a company of about 50 loyal men who have
taken up and are cultivating the Rector Plantation, and nearly all the excellent
farms in the river bottom.
At Van Buren a similar movement is on foot under the superintendence of
captain Geo. E. Miller, who has about 150 men organized into a company.
Besides these, the families of men of the 2d. Ark. Infantry, are to be
colonized upon the best abandoned farms in Crawford county, and many individuals
are going to work independently on farms in the vicinity of Van Buren and this
city. It may therefore be safely
inferred, that abundance of grain etc., will be raised this season to supply all
the wants of the citizens, and leave a surplus for consumption by the army. The recent order of Gen'l Bussy, under instructions from Dep't
Head Quarters, permitting farmers to purchase the necessary grain and provisions
from Government, has had a very salutary and beneficial effect, and will amply
repay for all the trouble and outlay incurred.
Let the motto of the people henceforth be "onward and upward."
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 11, 1865, p. 4, c. 2
To Encourage the Growth of Hair and Prevent its Turning Gray.—A young
lady friend of mine was recommended by a coiffeur to use sage water.
She was obliged to discontinue daily use, as it made her hair too thick.
Pour boiling water on the sage leaves, and let them remain some time in
the oven or near a stove; strain and apply to the roots of the hair daily.
If any pomade is needed, an equal mixture of cocoa-nut and olive oils,
with a little perfume, is very efficacious.—London Field.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 11, 1865, p. 4, c. 3
Loyalty.—"To volunteer life and liberty for the country; to stand
fast when leaders are incompetent, and armies reel away in panic before the foe;
to send off to the field, as bravely consenting women do husbands, sons and
brothers, the props and protectors of home; to wrestle day and night in prayer,
as Christian souls are wont, bearing the nation as their secret burden, when
from sex, age or infirmity they cannot do more; to come forward as protectors
and helpers of the children made fatherless; to give money and prepare
expeditions of love to mitigate the hardships of the wounded in the hospital; to
vote with religious fidelity for what will help and save the country, rising
wholly above mercenary motives and selfish trammels of party—this, and nothing
less than this, is loyalty."—Bushnell.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 1, c. 2
Explanation.
We are frequently compelled, for want of room to omit much interesting
matter, original and telegraphic. Owing
to the size of our press, we are obliged to strike off the out side of the paper
in the middle of the week, leaving us but the inside for editorials, latest
telegraphic dispatches, letter list, communications etc.
This is extremely inconvenient. An
enlargement of our paper is therefore, a very urgent measure. But how to do it and make it pay is the question.
Owing to the wholesale exodus to the North of a great portion of the
loyal people of this vicinity, our list of subscribers has dwindled down to less
than one hundred and the sale of the paper on the street is, and has been
for many months, very small, the troops not having been paid off for eight
months. Of advertisements, by which alone newspapers are maintained
in a flourishing condition, we have but few transient ones, and some times none
at all.
Small as our papers is, the expenses connected with it have been for a
long time double the receipts, leaving no margin for ourselves. The only means of keeping up our paper, which has for its
sole object the promulgation of truth, and the support of the sacred cause of
our Government, is Job-work, from which we receive vouchers, which have to be
submitted to the War Department first for approval before they acquire any value
at all; and even then the collection of the amount due is difficult, and
accompanied by many vexatious circumstances.
We have, for instance, a voucher approved last September and ordered to
be paid by the Secretary of War, for work done more than a year ago, which could
not be collected yet to the present day.
We have not received yet, a cent of pay for the Government work done
since the 1st, of August last, amounting, however, to a mere trifle.
Thus we have had to contend, ever since we started the NEW ERA, with
obstacles that seemed often insurmountable.
Besides receiving the cordial hatred of the rebel element and all its
sympathisers, we have been equally bitterly opposed by a set of corruptionists
in office, who under a former Administration constantly dreaded exposure of
their misdeeds, when they found they could not buy us up.
But, we trust, a better time has come.
The radical and most wholesome reforms that have taken place within the
last few weeks in the most important military offices, not only here, but all
over the Department, offers a guarantee, that in common with the whole country,
we also may expect a brighter future, and our friends, the loyal and honest
men of every station, may rest assured, that we will ever battle for their
rights and the maintenance of our holy cause.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 1, c. 3
The Indian Territories.
A bill has been reported in Congress to organize the fine territories
west of us, so as to open them to white settlers.
This is "a consummation devoutly to be wished" and would at
once open a brilliant future to Fort Smith.
These territories contain some of the finest lands to be found any where,
have a delicious climate, and immense mineral wealth of coal, lead, copper etc.,
and even Petroleum. Of the
latter article we know two springs ourselves, in which the oil bubbles up in
considerable quantities and which were frequently resorted to long before the
discovery of the present oil regions, by the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians, for
the cure of chronic rheumatism and kindred diseases.
We know also of at least one lead, and one copper mine in the choctaw
[sic] and chickasaw [sic] nations. Some
ten years ago an Englishman, on a sporting tour through the wilds of the great
west, brought to this place a wagon load of copper ore, that he picked up near
the Canadien [sic], about 200 miles west of this place. He shipped it all the way to liverpool [sic] and it paid
there, for the heavy expences [sic] of its long journey.
The Choctaw's [sic] and Chickasaw's [sic], having been extremely disloyal
almost to a man, and levied cruel war upon the loyal white setlements [sic]
along the line, have certainly forfeited every claim to be treated as seperate
[sic] nations under the protection of the United States Government.
The few loyal individuals in those nations would hail the carrying out of
the measure before congress [sic] with great delight, as it would save them from
being exterminated by their rebel neighbors, and at the same time greatly
advance their material interests.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
The Southern refugees in Canada are swearing vengeance for the passage of
the alien bill by the Canadian Parliament.
A letter has been sent to the station master, at Windsor, threatening
that unless the United States Consul's office was removed, the depot buildings
would be in ashes in three days. A
military force now guards the buildings.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
About 100 men, women and children came up from Little Rock, a few days
ago, to cultivate what is known as the Burrows farm, on Frog Bayou, 13 miles
below Van Buren. They were utterly
destitute of means, except what had been supplied to them by Government, at
Little Rock.
Gen. Bussey ordered them up, rightly judging, that at so great distance
from our lines they could not receive the necessary protection from the military
and that any improvements they would make on the lands, would only be so much
aid to guerrillas, who would be certain to seize upon the fruits of their
industry and inflict upon them great suffering.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 3
Then and Now!
How are the Mighty
Fallen!
Nearly four years ago, we found ourselves one fine day, standing upon the
river bank near the foot of Garrison Avenue, in the midst of a dense crowd,
listening to the bombastic effusions of a large plethoric individual dressed in
uniform. There was drawn up in line
quite a little army of the chivalrous sons of the South and in their new
uniforms and arms but recently purloined from one of Uncle Sam's arsenals,
looked very find and proud.—They had a good reason to be proud.
Five boat loads of them had just arrived and taken possession of the
Garrison and put to flight two small companies of United States troops,
numbering in all, eighty men. They
burned of course, to signalize their valor in defense of the man-stealer's
rights and the maintenance of the "peculiar institution," in all its
beauty.
The speaker who addressed them, and many citizens, was very fierce in his
denunciations of the "dastardly Lincoln hirelings," and exhausted the
entire vocabulary of fashionable secesh slang to "fire the Southern
heart." Cotton was King—the
great powers of the Earth were compelled to bow low at the footstool of Secessia
and recognize the new government at once.
The Almighty himself, was, of course, on their side and smiled graciously
on their undertaking and all that sort of stuff.
The same individual, who delivered this blood and thunder speech at that
time, we observed standing on the guard of a steamboat one day this week looking
straight at the spot, where he declaimed so furiously a few years ago, and from
which he was only a few yards distant. He
was no longer the robust, hearty and important looking chap of old, but pale,
thin, dilapidated and broken down in fortune and person, a true representative
of the fortunes of the South.
It was General Burrows, once a well known fire eater, who in 1861, at the
head of a large force of rebels took possession of the Garrison here, and caused
the stars and stripes to be supplanted by the rebel rag.
Whether the Ex-General meditated upon the transitoriness of all things
sublunary or felt any stings of remorse at his own share of this unspeakable
misery brought upon the Nation, we are unable to say.
The events of the past must certainly have come back to his memory
in vivid light and we trust that their logic has made him a wiser, if not a
better man.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 3
The Refugees.
Notwithstanding the thousands upon thousands of persons who have left
here for the North during the past twelve months, by every train, boat and other
means of conveyance, there are still several thousands of refugees here utterly
dependent upon Government for support.
The question of providing the means of subsistence for this class of
people, without stinting the troops and Government employees, necessary for the
public service, has been, and is still very embarrassing to the authorities.
It appears from the proper returns that nearly as many rations are issued
to refugees at this point, Van Buren and Fayetteville as to the troops.
Should it therefore happen, that the supplies fall short, and navigation
be interrupted, as it has been the case frequently, both the troops and helpless
refugees, consisting nearly altogether of women and children, would equally
suffer.
We understand that the Department Commander, at once in justice to the
troops, the interest of the service, and as an act of mercy to those unfortunate
ones, who have been deprived of their all by the ravages of a ruthless war, has
earnestly advised the removal of all those unable to provide the means of
subsistence, to places where Government is able to take care of them at all
times, and from whence they may have an opportunity, gradually to procure homes
of their own.
That this measure is dictated by the laws of humanity, and the best
interests of the service, no thinking person will for a moment doubt.
The river is getting low, navigation, uncertain and the addition of a
considerable body of troops, which will shortly take place here, will render the
discontinuance of supporting thousands of helpless women and children an
imperative military necessity.
The troops must either be fed, or the place evacuated.
As the latter contingency will not for a moment be entertained, it
behooves all those, who depend upon Government for supplies, to avoid great
prospective suffering by embracing the opportunities offered to remove to points
where they can, and will be cared for properly.
A word to the wise is sufficient.
In regard to those engaged to the "Labor colonies," they will
receive all the assistance offered in Order No. 11, as soon as the rolls of the
companies are properly made out and the commanding officer has the assurance
that none but those actually engaged in farming, are the recipients of its
favor.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 2, c. 4
Asylum of Saints.
The Conservative, of Leavenworth, Kansas, in one of its recent
numbers, applies the above term to Fort Smith.
We are truly glad to be able to inform the Conservative that nearly
all the "Saints" have lately been shipped to other parts, mostly
back to Kansas. They were loth to
leave their "Asylum," in which they had revelled with unlimited
license, till the stench of their corruption had spread all over the land.
The good people of Kansas owe these "Saints," who have brought
disgrace and shame upon their fair State, a hempen cravat, or something of the
kind.
If the Conservative desires to know more about these
"Saints," he can post himself in regard to them by perusing a
production of an excellent Kansas soldier, entitled "The Satanic
Council," published at Lawrence.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 18, 1865, p. 3, c. 2
An able-bodied correspondent thus speaks of the sound which issues from
the throats of the rebels as they rush to defeat:
"Imagine a concatenation of equine, canine, bovine, porcine and
gallinaceous utterances, with an Indian war-whoop thrown in, and you have only
an approximate conception of this howl called the rebel battle cry."
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 1, c. 1-4
From Fayetteville.
Fayetteville, Ark.,
}
March 15, 1865.
}
Editor New Era:
Col. Harrison, commanding at this place, has recently set on foot a
movement for the benefit of Northwestern Arkansas, which promises to be an
entire success and must result in much good.
Since the outbreak of the rebellion, the people here have lived an
isolated life, without any adequate protection, and have been a prey, not only
to rebel armies and bushwhackers, but to straggling soldiers of our own army,
until many have been reduced to absolute want.
At the commencement of the present year, Col. H. began to organize the
farmers into armed agricultural communities, which are called "Post
Colonies," on the following plan:
The men of the different settlements are enrolled and consolidated into
Home Guard companies, who elect their officers, are mustered into service and
armed. They then select a site
where water and pasturage are abundant and where, within a radius of a few
miles, may be found from 1,000 to 4,000 acres of cultivated land, upon which no
rent is allowed to be charged; they then are furnished with a plan of a fort,
block house, or stockade, which is built at once and within it a store house,
for ammunition and provisions.
The families are moved to the neighborhood and temporary houses built for
them within a short distance of the fort. Civil
law is to be administered by the officers of the colonies, according to the
statute of Arkansas, until such time as civil officers can be chosen.
An order is issued establishing the colony and a safeguard furnished for
the protection of its persons and property.
No property is held in common, but as much land as each family desires is
parceled out to it, by vote of the members.
Most of the colonies already number from seventy to one hundred men,
under arms. No crops will be
raised, except under their direction and if the "bushwhackers" wish to
live off the country they will have to purchase their board at a generous
expenditure of powder and lead.
The following colonies have already been established, which are working
in good earnest, viz: Union Valley,
Walnut Grove, Mountain, Prairie, West Fork, Middle Fork, Mt. Comfort, Elm
Spring, Bentonville, Pea Ridge, Osage, Huntsville, War Eagle, Richland and Brush
Creek. Any persons interested in
the workings of this system are requested to visit Capt. Bethel Counts, at
Richland.
A large and enthusiastic meeting of the citizens of Washington county was
held at Fayetteville, on the 4th inst., which was addressed by major
Worthington, Hon. M. Shortess, of Benton, col. Harrison, J. H. Wilson, and Hon.
J. M. Gilstrap, of Washington county.
On the 9th a similar convention was held at Huntsville,
Madison county, which was addressed by Col. Harrison and Rev. Reuben North.
On the 13th a convention was held at Bentonville, which was
addressed by Hon. M. Shortess.
The following report of the proceedings of the Madison county convention
has been furnished for publication. The
preamble and resolutions published below, were unanimously adopted at the Benton
county convention and those of a similar purport by that in Washington county,
but copies of the proceedings have not yet been furnished for the press.
Proceedings of
Mass Meeting, Held March
9th,
1865, in Huntsville, Ark.
At a convention of the loyal citizens of Madison county, Ark., held at
Huntsville, the county seat, March 9th, 1865, and which was called to
order by Hon. R. H. Wimpy, Hon. George W. Seamons, of Huntsville, was called to
the Chair and Lieut. W. S. Woodbridge, 1st Ark. Cav., appointed
Secretary.
A committee on resolutions was then appointed, consisting of the
following named gentlemen: E.
Haynes, John N. Bivins, J. W. Wilkinson, J. A. Jay, and Lieut. Woodbridge.
The convention was then addressed by Col. Harrison and Rev. Reuben North,
after which the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, The existence of war in our country, for the past few years, has
turned loose among us swarms of guerillas and robbers, who have infested our
mountains and valleys to such an extent as to render insecure the lives and
property of peaceful citizens, and
Whereas, The raids of large armies through Northwestern Arkansas, during
each successive summer and autumn, since the commencement of the war, have
rendered it impossible for the citizens to concentrate and combine, in
sufficient numbers, for the protection of themselves, their families, and their
property, and
Whereas, We see in the signs of the times—the repeated victories of the
National armies and the disheartening of our enemies—the promise of a speedy
return of peace in our distracted and desolated country; and,
Whereas, We feel assured that the countermanding, by President Lincoln,
of the order for the abandonment of Northwestern Arkansas, the long continued
and successful defense of the line of the Arkansas river, and the retaining of
the garrison at the Post of Fayetteville, are guarantees for our protection
against any subsequent raids of large armies over the country north of the
Arkansas river; and,
Whereas, In our opinion, we will, by energy and united effort, be able to
rid our section of the State of guerrillas, bushwhackers and thieves, and
thereby assist in restoring peace to Arkansas, as well as bring it within our
power to support our families unmolested; and,
Whereas, By the constant inroads of the rebel forces, during the past
season, into this section of our State, rendering necessary the presence, in
larger or smaller numbers, of the National forces, which have consumed a large
amount of our provisions, in some cases not leaving sufficient bread and meat
for our families, and paying us less than one half the amount required to
replace the same; and,
Whereas, Hundreds of the loyal young men of this county have shown their
attachment to the Union of our fathers, by volunteering their services in the
National army, for its defense; and,
Whereas, There are now in this county three hundred citizens enrolled and
armed for home defense, and for the enforcement of the laws of the United
States; and,
Whereas, The extent of country embraced in Northwestern Arkansas,
comprising the counties of Benton, Washington, Madison, Carroll, Newton, Marion
and Searcy, is too large to be properly defended by the eleven companies of the
1st Ark. Cav., Vols., now stationed in this section; and,
Whereas, The failure thus far, on the part of Congress, to recognize the
present State government of Arkansas, has rendered that government practically
inoperative and caused hundreds of Union citizens to leave the State and
prevented the enforcement of civil law; and,
Whereas, The recognition of the present State government of Arkansas by
the National Congress, would be a barren measure if unaccompanied by the
restoration of civil law, Therefore,
Resolved, That we deprecate the removal from our midst of the citizens of
Northwestern Arkansas, and earnestly entreat all good and loyal people to remain
and assist in restoring peace and prosperity to Arkansas, and that we request
all such, who have removed temporarily to Northern States, to return at once to
their homes.
Resolved, That we hail as a harbinger of better days the system adopted
by the military authorities of Northwestern Arkansas, of arming and organizing
the loyal citizens into "Post colonies," or agricultural communities,
and believe that the energetic seconding, on our part, of this movement, will
eventuate in securing to us the boon of peace, which we so much desire, and
enable us not only to save our families from plunder and starvation, but put it
in our power to place a large surplus of our crop, the ensuing season, at the
disposal of the Government.
Resolved, That whenever our former neighbors and friends who have
heretofore been in arms against us, surrender themselves and their arms to the
military commander of this Post and give evidence of a heartfelt desire to
restore the National authority and to become honest and peaceful citizens, we
will lay aside all former animosity and consent to receive them once more as
repenting prodigals to the home of their father.
Resolved, That we, the loyal citizens of Northwestern Arkansas, are
entitled to the full protection and benefit of the laws of the United States
which we hereby pledge ourselves, as far as in our power, to uphold.
Resolved, That having not only seen, but felt the blighting effect of
slavery, on Republican institutions, we hail with delight the passage of the
Constitutional amendment, abolishing slavery in the United States, firmly
believing that the overthrow of that institution will hasten the downfall of the
rebellion.
Resolved, That we believe that it would be nothing more than just if the
families of those citizens of Northwestern Arkansas, who are proving their
loyalty by their works, were permitted to draw from the U. S. Commissary, at
Fayetteville, sufficient meat and bread to sustain themselves until the present
crop comes in, as almost all of them would have had sufficient provisions, had
they not been consumed by the National forces.
Resolved, That we have full confidence in the ability and integrity of
President Lincoln and his constitutional advisers, and firmly believe that he
will, by the aid of the brave soldiers and sailors of our army and navy,
overthrow, and that shortly, this causeless rebellion.
Resolved, That we respectfully request of the Commanding General of the
3d Division, 7th Army Corps, if in his power, to allow us the loan of
a sufficient supply of oats for seed in Northwestern Arkansas, (the Government
forage trains and the enemy having taken all that were raised in this section
during the last season) and that we will agree to return to the Government, on
the gathering of the present crop, an equivalent for such seed as may be
furnished.
Resolved, That we respectfully urge the Commanding General of the 3d
Division to send to Northwestern Arkansas, for the better protection of the
loyal citizens thereof, and for the enforcement, if possible, of civil law
therein, at least half a Regiment, in addition to the present force, and that
said force, if possible, be composed of Arkansas troops; and furthermore, that
we most respectfully request that the 1st Ark. Cav. Vol's be allowed
to remain in this section of the country, their acquaintance with and interest
in it, being naturally more extensive and stronger than that of any other
command.
Resolved, That we respectfully urge upon the attention of the present
Congress, the vital necessity of recognizing the present State government of
Arkansas and of admitting to seats in that body our lawfully elected Senators
and Representatives.
Resolved, That the thanks of this meeting be and hereby are tendered to
Col. M. La Rue Harrison, 1st Ark. Cav. Vol's, for the interest taken
by him in this section of the country and for his untiring efforts to restore
peace and harmony therein.
Resolved, That copies of these resolutions be sent to President Lincoln,
Governor Murphy, Gen. Bussey, our Division Commander, and for publication, to
the Missouri Democrat and Fort Smith New Era.
Three hearty cheers were then given for Colo. Harrison and three for the
Colonies, when the meeting adjourned.
G. W. Seamons, Pres't.
W. S. Woodbridge,
Sec'y.
In conclusion, Mr. Editor, let me request of all persons interested in
the future prosperity of our State, to visit the "Post Colonies" of
Northwestern Arkansas.
Respectfully, yours,
One Who Has Been There.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Notice to Farmers.
Persons desirous of cultivating abandoned lands in this District will
have to apply to the Local Special Agent, Treasury Department, at this place for
permits.
We understand that it has been arranged to let persons and families,
cultivating but a small tract of land with their own hands, have the ground free
of charge this year; but that for plantations and farms worked by hired help,
rent will have to be paid to Government.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The Cherokee Tomahawk.
This is the formidable name of a little sheet, whose publication has
recently been commenced at Fort Gibson, C. N., by Thos. O'Bryan. We hope it will tomahawk without mercy some of those
scoundrels who have been carrying on an extensive system of jayhawking all
through the Nation—for a long time past.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Capt. Tough.
This notorious individual, who held the position of Chief of Secret
Service of the District of the Frontier, under the "Satanic" clique
last year, was arrested at Fort Scott lately and taken to Leavenworth.
His large and fine trains of four mule wagons, with which he carried on a
lucrative freighting business and which he acquired by his robberies in
Arkansas, were at the same time seized by Government.
Amen and Amen!!
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Telegraph to Little Rock.
The work of putting up the wires between Little Rock and this place was
commenced some time ago from the latter place, and is about completed. This improvement is important, not only in a military point
of view, but also to the loyal people, as the force guarding the lines will at
the same time afford protection to them.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
Col. M. La Rue Harrison, 1st Ark. Cavalry, commanding at
Fayetteville, was in town this week, and has left again for his command.
The Colonel gives a flattering account of the system of labor colonies
established in Northwestern Arkansas, under his direction.
These colonies number in all about 1,600 arms bearing men, and live in
communities of from 50 to 100 families. Each
colony is amply prepared to repel any number of guerillas that may seek their
destruction, and many thousands of acres of the best land is being put under
cultivation by them.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
Rebel Fiendishness.
A party of guerrillas went to the house of an old couple, living near
Sommerville, not far from Memphis, and demanded their money.
Upon their refusal, they hung the old man, tied the clothes over the old
lady's head and applied fire to her body. Compelled
by these horrible tortures, she at last disclosed where the money was secreted,
which the devils took and decamped.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
We visited one day this week, the camp of the 18th Iowa Vol.
Inf. situated in the pleasant grounds of the Catholic convent, near this city.
The Regiment is remodeling its quarters for the approaching warm weather,
which, when completed, will be very comfortable and convenient ones.
Scrupulous cleanliness, reigns all through the camp.
The 18th Iowa, have been stationed here since '63,
participated in the Camden expedition, and have gained the respect and good will
of all loyal citizens. Many of
them, we expect, will make Arkansas their permanent home at the expiration of
their term of service, judging from the many alliances they contracted
with Arkansas damsels.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 4
We direct the attention of our readers to the communication of Rev.
Francis Springer, Post Chaplain, in relation to the establishing of a school for
the orphans of Arkansians, who died in the service of their country.
The enterprise is a most laudable and charitable one, and ought to
receive the support of every patriot.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 3, c. 1
V. Dell, Editor New Era:
Thousands of loyal Arkansians, also yourself, will be glad to learn that
a project has been conceived for the care and education of the many children
reduced to orphanages by the rigors of the present war.
The following initial agreement for the organization of an institution
for the benefit of orphan children, is offered for publication in your paper, in
order that the benevolent purpose may be generally understood and a number of
intelligent and excellent citizens and soldiers of Arkansas have signified their
willingness to contribute liberally in aid of an enterprise so much needed and
so honorable to the State.
The present condition of Arkansas is very similar to that of a new State.
Its population is probably not more than one-fourth what it was in 1860.
Since that date, a very great revolution has taken place, compelling a
reorganization of society on a foundation entirely different from the one
previously established. Now is the
time most favorable for the introduction of judicious plans of general
instruction and the diffusion of an earnest spirit of improvement and
enlightenment among the masses of the people.
Yours, very truly,
Francis Springer.
A School for Orphans.
We, the subscribers, do hereby appoint and constitute Isaac Murphy, James
M. Johnson, E. J. Searle, Thos. H. Scott, Geo. W. R. Smith, M. La Rue Harrison,
Reuben North, Thomas Hunt, R. H. Wimpy, M. L. Stephenson, G. M. Waugh, J. T.
Loudon, Lafayette Gregg, W. J. Patten, J. W. Plumlee, J. Hackett, J. L. Powell,
Benjamin Taylor and A. W. Bishop, our lawful agents and trustees, to solicit,
receive and hold in trust any and all donations of money, or other property,
real and personal, which may be donated by us, or others, for the sole purpose
of establishing and maintaining a school or institution of learning and arts,
for the proper care, support and education of the orphan children of loyal
Arkansians who have been killed or have died in consequence of injuries received
in the service of, or by reason of their true devotion to the Government of the
United States, during the rebellion of 1861.
The persons above named shall have power to determine upon the location
of said institution, to employ suitable agents for the collection of funds for
it, and to take bond with proper security, of their agent, treasurer, or other
persons entrusted with the funds of the institution; and a majority of them
shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business, properly
connected with the institution; and they are authorized and requested to procure
from the Legislature of Arkansas, as soon as practicable, an act of
incorporation for the purpose herein set forth; and we do hereby agree and bind
ourselves to pay to the authorized agent of the aforementioned trustees, the
full amounts of the subscriptions opposite our respective names, for the purpose
herein specified.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 3, c. 1
Outrage Upon Arkansas Refugees.
A family from this State, consisting of a Mrs. Hargrave and four small
children arrived at Saint Louis lately, and shortly afterwards, the children
were spirited away and found in the Convent of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart,
whence they were taken by the Provost Guard.
Soon after they were missing again and found in another institution of
the same kind. They were rescued a
second time, only to be abducted again, and have not been discovered yet. Archbishop Kendrick, addressed a letter to the Provost
Marshal, in which he condemns the outrage, and expresses his surprise that a
Catholic institution should have been engaged in such disgraceful and
unwarrantable proceedings.—Saint Louis Ex.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 3, c. 3
Rebel Ventilator.
If there is one individual, upon whom Gen. Order No. 4, banishing
officers dishonorably dismissed the service of the United States from this
Department, finds a just application it certainly is Edward J. Brooks formerly 1st
Lieut. in the 7th U. S. Infantry.
This Brooks was dismissed for disloyalty May 16th 1861,
by General Order No. 47 from the War Department.
He has resided here for more than a year, was concerned in the house of
McDonald & Co. was also, for a long time chief clerk in the Q. M. Dept.
under Captain Greene Durbin and is a brother of the notorious bushwhacker Col.
Brooks, who has been infesting this region for years.
He was at one time trying to raise an Arkansas (Union) regiment, but upon
his antecedents becoming known, the enterprise failed.
In a communication to the Mo. Democrat, which was published Dec. 26th
last, he imposed upon that radical paper most shamefully, by contradicting a
statement in the Democrat, of the terrible abuses then existing here and
representing the state of affairs as highly satisfactory, when at the same time
he with the rest of the same set had been instrumental in inflicting unspeakable
misery upon the people, compelling them by thousands to flee northward for peace
and security.
We cheerfully give him this notice in view of his having been a prominent
member of the "Satanic Clique."}
His room is more desirable here than his presence.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 3, c. 3
1200 Union prisoners, belonging to the 43d Illinois, 36th Iowa
and 77th Ohio, who were taken at Marks' Mills in this State last
April, were exchanged recently and arrived at St. Louis.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, March 25, 1865, p. 3, c. 3
Public Meeting.
Notice is hereby given that there will be a public meeting on Wednesday
night at 4 o'clock P. M. in the Methodist Church, for the purpose of organizing
a company to remove to the vicinity of Springfield Mo.
All persons interested in the enterprise, are respectfully requested to
attend.
J. D. Treadaway.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
A Canada paper estimates that forty-three thousand Canadians have
enlisted in the federal army since the commencement of the war. Of these it is calculated that fourteen thousand have died on
the battle-field.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
The colored citizens of New Orleans own real estate to the value of
$15,000,000, and they now have a daily newspaper, the Tribune, printed and
edited by colored men.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
Within the past eight months upwards of 400 papers have "died,"
in consequence of the exorbitant price of printing paper.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Exchanged.—The many friends of J. E. Hayes, Lieut. Col. 12th
Kans. Vol. Inft., will be glad to learn that this gallant soldier and excellent
man has at last been exchanged and is expected soon to rejoin his regiment.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Improvements.
We took a ride, one day this week, through the suburbs of this place and
country adjoining and were highly gratified at the signs visible in every
direction of great and rapid improvement.
Instead of tearing down and destroying, as was the case for nearly a year
and a half, the watchword seems to be to build up and improve.
People again hold up their heads, confident of being protected in all
their rights and privileges as American citizens.
No better criterion can be formed of the difference of the times as
they were and as they are than to witness the UNIVERSAL CONFIDENCE AND
CHEERFULNESS MANIFESTED BY THE PEOPLE GENERALLY.
Says an old gentleman, whom we found busily engaged in plowing, "I
feel as though I had some chance again to live and call my life my own."
This is precisely the feeling manifested by every one interested in the
welfare of the community and the best interests of society and the Government.
It is to be hoped, that this state of affairs will be permitted to
continue and an opportunity afforded to the much injured people of Western
Arkansas to redeem this fair portion of the State from the ravages of cruel war
and the exactions of a heartless set of unprincipled adventurers, who under the
guise of patriotism exercised uncontrolled license to strip the country of
everything valuable.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 1, 1865, p. 4, c. 1
Fort Smith, Arkansas,
March 23d, 1865.
Editor New Era:
Dear Sir:--I wish to say through the medium of your paper, a few words to
the citizens and soldiers of Western Arkansas. . . . Since the occupation of
this country by the Federal army, there has been a portion of the time that
matters and things in general have not ran as smoothly as good men might desire.
The authority of the government in many instances was most shamefully and
outrageously abused. Indeed it
seemed for awhile that a general system of public and private plundering had
been inaugurated, having its sanction it is to be feared, in high places.
The result is that our country is devastated and almost entirely
depopulated, for under this reign of terror, which was so oppressive to the
citizens or soldiers' families, of this country, and so outrageously disgraceful
and unmanly on the part of the perpetrators.
The inhabitants of the country were indiscriminately robbed of everything
valuable that they possessed. As to
who were the prime instigators and executors of all this wrong and mischief, it
matters but little now to our mothers, sisters and daughters. They have been reduced to want, misery and degradation, were
forced to abandon their homes, and are now reduced to the humiliating condition
of being dependent upon the government for bread to sustain life.
Thousands of others who have been forced from their homes are now
refugees in other States among strangers.
This reign of terror has passed away; order is being restored; a
different policy is being inaugurated and everything seems to indicate the
dawning of a brighter and better future for this country.
From all that can bee seen at present, the whole question of the
restoration of law, good order and prosperity of the country, with the
responsibility of a failure, rests upon us as a people.
Shall we now prove true to ourselves, our God and country, or shall we
fail, and bring down the scorn and contempt of the world upon our own heads, and
forfeit all right to protection?
It has already been said that we were a debased, worthless, ignorant set
of people. But never mind that, for
those that say it, if not as ignorant as we, are more debased, for they have
stolen our horses, mules, cattle, money, etc.
But let by-gones be by-gones. If
we will do our part the government will protect us. Thank God, we have got the right kind of military commanders
here to do it. Then let every
Arkansan, both citizen and soldier, put his shoulder to the wheel and give one
long and strong push, and the old car of state will again move, and ere long she
will be richly laden with abundant prosperity.
We have a good soil and delightful climate, the Spring season is now
here, all nature smiles in beauty and bids man be cheerful, patient, industrious
and honest. Then let all unite to
put down every species of idleness, vice and intemperance. Let every man respect his neighbor's rights, ferret out every
thief, wrong doer or disturber of the public peace and tranquility, and promptly
report him to the authorities, no matter who is soldier or citizen, high or low.
Don't be afraid to do your duty, for the time has come to act and act
faithfully and promptly or total ruin is the inevitable consequence.
Then let us all go back to the law and the prophets, and apply that old
touch-stone of virtue, "Do unto all men as you would they should do unto
you." We all can do that, if
we will try. Then let us who still
remain in Arkansas, go to work in good faith, form a nucleus around which we can
again build up our country, take care of our families, and as soon as we can
provide the necessaries of life, invite our friends who have gone North to
return to their homes again. The
good old days of peace and plenty will come again when we can lay down at night
with windows and doors open, without the fear of the assassin and robber.
Arkansas Soldier.
FORT SMITH NEW ERA, April 8, 1865, p. 1, c. 4
A Great Bane of Our Youth.—The superintendent of the public schools in
Providence, R. I., say