GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS
January 1861 - December 1862
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, January 12, 1861, p. 2, c. 6
Fruit Trees, Received per steamship Texas from New Orleans,
Evergreens, Cape Jessamine, Anonymous Japonica, sweet scented myrtle, Chinese
abor [sic] vitae, dwarf box, rasberries [sic], fig trees, roses, and other
shrubbery, for sale at reduced prices at Wilson & Co's, Tremont Street,
Galveston, Texas.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, February 5, 1861, p. 1, c. 1
The ladies of Dallas have raised over $100, the proceeds of a handsome supper
they gave, for the benefit of the Frontier.
Some of the ladies of San Antonio gave a concert a few evenings since, for the
benefit of the Frontier. It was
opposed in advance, through communication in the new paper, and the attendance
at the concert was very slim.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, February 2, 1861, p. 2, c. 1
A LADY LEADER.--A friend in Refugio county writes us the following:
The
Lone Star waves in every town in this section.
Crescert [sp?] village had remained behind the time, when on the 17th of
December a meeting was called. It
was going to adjourn for want of a leader, when all at once, the banner of San
Jacinto unfurled in her hand, appeared Miss Adams, who addressed the meeting in
the following terms:
"Sons of Texas, it is not in the sphere of a lady to address a political
assembly; but when the honor of her sex and the freedom of her country are at
stake; when men are either deterred by danger, or slumber in indifference, it is
her duty to raise her voice. They time for deliberation is passed, the time for action is
come. The North has passed laws to
deprive you of your property, therefore she has violated the great Union
contract; the Union ties are broken. Brownlow
must receive an immediate check, or you have lost your freedom.
Will you wait for action until Lincoln and his woolly friends will come,
sword and torch in hands, to destroy your homes and set themselves on equality
with your wives and sisters?
Sons of
Texas, in the name of my sex, for the freedom of the South, I present you the
coat of arms of Texas; protect it, we shall stand at your side!"
After
such an address the assembly could not but remain in a solemn silence and bow
their head to the superiority of their fair leader.
[not
readable]" shout hurrah for Miss Adams!
May a [unreadable] several like her, and Southern rights will be
sustained.
ZERO.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, February 19, 1861, p. 1, c. 1
The
ladies of Galveston, and the different military organizations, are invited to
attend and witness the presentation of a banner to the "Galveston Artillery
Company," at the Island City House, on Saturday the 16th inst., at 4
o'clock P.M.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, February 19, 1861, p. 1, c. 1
This is St. Valentine's Day. Young
ladies of course expect a large amount of stationery to be used up for their
benefit.
We received several complimentary "Valentines" early in the day, for
which we return thanks. That one
about the "Litter-Airy" man was particularly acceptable.
Captain, we owe you one.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 17, 1861, p. 2, c. 1
The ladies of Polk [county] have formed a "Soldiers' Relief Society."
[skips
from Aug 31 to Jan. 14, 1862]
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, Jan. 14, 1862, p. 1, c. 4
General Hospital, P. C. S. A.
The
News--I desire through your columns to acknowledge the receipt of the following
contributions:
Dec. 29, 1861-- 1/2 dozen cooked pigeons and toast, from Mrs. Hadley, Houston.
One bowl of chicken soup, from Mrs. J. D. Waters, Houston.
Jan. 2, 1862--4 bottles madeira wine, for Col. Parson's regiment, from Miss Eva
Harris, Treasurer Hospital Female Committee.
Jan. 4--One box Rhine Wine, from Mrs. J. D. Merriman, Galveston.
Jan. 6--20 mattress ticks, 1 comfort, 50 pillow cases, 45 sheets, 6 towels, from
the Ladies Aid Society, Houston, per Mrs. Hadley.
Jan. 6--One pair blankets, from Catherine, servant of Mrs. Terry per Mrs.
Hadley.
Item no. three (4 bottles of wine,) has been delivered to Dr. Hogan, Surgeon of
Col. Parson's regiment.
Mrs. Gen. Ball has signified her intention to furnish chicken soup, for the
convalescent, every Wednesday. On
which day the attending Surgeons will consequently make out a list of patients
to whom it may be given.
A letter has been received from Mrs. Julia A. Allen, President of the Ladies Aid
Society, Bastrop, tendering mattresses, pillows, bandages, &c.
The offer has been accepted, and the proper acknowledgement will be made
when the articles arrive.
Butter and eggs have been received per Mr. A. Cooke, of Hempstead, but I have
not been notified to whom credit should be given.
It is desirable that all donations should be accompanied by letters, enclosing
full lists of articles, donors, conditions, &c.
Losses may thus be avoided.
If cooked provisions are to be sent, previous notice should be given to the
Surgeon, in order that the "Diet Table" may be made out to correspond,
so that those only who are in a proper state of convalescence may be supplied.
In conclusion, I cannot withhold an expression of our [illegible] of deep
obligation, under which the liberality of the citizens generally, has placed us. If our necessities required it, much greater assistance could
be obtained, and has been proffered.
Respectfully,
W. P. Riddell, Surgeon,
General Hospital.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, January 14, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
The military ball given by Moore's regiment to the ladies of Houston, came off
on Wednesday night, in Perkin's Hall, and was well attended.
We regret our inability to be present, but learn from those who were
there, that it was a brilliant affair, and gave very general satisfaction.
The evening was rather unfavorable, on account of the weather, but this
did not prevent the ladies from venturing out, as we understand the large hall,
which is said to be the finest in the State, was crowded to excess.
"And all went merry as a marriage bell."
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, January 14, 1862, p. 1, c. 7
A negro ball came off a few nights since for the benefit of the Hospital, under
the supervision of the City marshal with the following result:
Total receipts
$54 10
Paid door keeper and for [illeg.]
$3 50
Rent of hall, J. Kenedy, $24
28 50
Balance
25 50
Donated by Mr. Kennedy
25 00
Total
50 50
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, January 14, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
The Telegraph says, "Confederate States postage stamps are receivable at
this office the same as money." We
will go a little further--we will take corn, bacon, sugar, flour, or any article
of merchandise in demand, at its market value, including postage stamps, in pay
for what is due to us in these times.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, April 8, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Aid for the Families of Volunteers.--We are pleased to learn that a grand
entertainment in aid of the fund for the relief of the families of volunteers
will be given at Perkin's Concert Hall, on Wednesday (to morrow) evening, by a
number of the musical amateurs of this city and Galveston.
The programme [sic] is an admirable one, consisting of a great variety of
operatic, sentimental and comic songs, duets and trios, several of which will be
performed in costume, which, with the well known and deserved reputation of the
directors, Messrs. Theo. Stadtler and Charles Otis, cannot fail to draw and
please an overflowing house. It is
unnecessary for us to express an opinion of the great and sacred importance of
the object of this concert, or to suggest to a patriotic people a cordial and
generous patronage.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, April 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
We learn that the concert in Perkins' Hall last night was well attended by the
elite of our city. The fact that it
was given for the benefit of the soldiers' families drew a very large attendance
from among the most respectable and patriotic of our citizens.
Our engagements deprived us of the pleasure of the entertainment, but we
are glad to learn that the attendance was very large, and that the net proceeds
amounted to upwards of $550. This
furnishes an additional evidence of the liberality with which Houston responds
to every call intended to promote the great cause in which our country is now
engaged. As on all similar occasions previously, Mr. Perkins
generously gave the use of his splendid Hall without a charge.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, April 15, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
The ladies of Mission Valley, Victoria county, address the ladies of Texas,
calling on them to co-operate with them in aid of the sacred cause of our
country's liberties at this time. They
think the ladies of Texas have, at least, one million of dollars now locked up
in their caskets, and which is doing no service to them or the country, and they
propose that it shall all be given to our patriotic Governor to aid in the
present struggle. It is proposed
that the ladies shall organize a society in each county, and proceed at once to
collect the treasure.
The
Gazette says a lady of Austin proposes to give five hundred dollars towards
building a vessel the same as the Virginia, to remove the blockade at Galveston.
This is a liberal beginning, and if other ladies will follow the example,
the enterprise will speedily succeed.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, April 29, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
The State Gazette says a lady in Austin proposes to give five hundred dollars
for the building of an iron clad gunboat, similar to the Manassas or Virginia
and that another lady in Webberville proposes to give the same amount towards
the same object. We doubt not
such noble examples of patriotism will be speedily followed all over the State,
and that we shall before many months have iron clad steamers running in our bays
and along our entire coast to the terror of all Yankee blockaders.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, April 29, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
To the Wealthy Citizens of Brazoria County.
I will make no apology for thus addressing you for, in a
time of great public danger, like the present, every man should lend his voice
in the discussion on measures for the public safety. I have observed with sorrow and shame that the moneyed men of
this county have not come forward to the support of this war as liberally as
they should have done. ... Now gentlemen there has been a great deal of talk in
this county about what should be done, and many public meetings to discuss
measures, many fine speeches have been made, and men have promised largely--but
I acknowledge that I am ignorant of any good that has been accomplished.
May good and brave men have gone to the war from this county, and so far
Brazoria has probably done her duty. But
much yet remains to be done. While
our soldiers are off fighting our battles, what is to become of their families
at home? It has been suggested to
raise a fund by taxation to support the poor families of soldiers.
This plan I condemn as wrong and unjust.
A tax falls upon all the poor as well as the rich--the absent soldier as
well as the rich man at home. It is
said that some rich men will not contribute voluntarily and the only way to
reach their pockets is by taxing them. Shame!
shame! on all such men; they should receive the contempt of all good citizens,
they should forever be objects for "the hand of scorn to point his slow
unmoving finger at." I would
suggest that a committee be appointed to visit every man in the county who is
able to give anything for the subsistence of poor families.
Planters can furnish provisions, merchants can give clothing or money,
physicians can practice gratis for soldiers' families, lawyers can give (not
professional services, God forbid that they would be needed) but they can help
in some way. Let a depot be
established at some convenient point and some responsible person to distribute
rations to the needy. A similar
plan has been adopted in Matagorda. I
have met many men who object to going into the service because their families
would be left without the means of support.
Can you expect the poor men of the country to fight your battles while
their families are in need of bread? Guarantee
them a support and many more will volunteer into the service.
Now then you men who represent the wealth of Brazoria will you do
something, or will you continue to talk as heretofore?
Better give half you are worth than lose it all.
Those of you who stay at home, assist those who are willing to [illeg.]
to the poor man that you will support his family, and if he gets killed you will
see that his family shall not want. This
will put many men in the service who are now holding back.
The man who will not do his duty now is not worthy the boon of liberty.
Men of Brazoria, arouse from your lethargy!
Shall we be idle and inactive here doing nothing, contributing nothing to
the common cause, while our brothers are winning laurels on the battlefield?
Rouse up and sustain the old boast of our country, "first in peace,
first in war!"
Lewis T. Bennet.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 6, 1862, p. 1, c. 3 [Summary:
list of killed and wounded of Ninth Texas in battle of Shiloh]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 6, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We regret to learn that many of the soldiers now in the service of the country,
have left families in Galveston entirely destitute and wholly dependent on
charity for the absolute necessities of life.
We are assured by gentlemen of undoubted veracity that many of these
families consisting only of women and children, have not had a full meal for
weeks, and yet prefer to suffer rather than ask for charity. In most other
cities similarly situated provision is made to supply food to the destitute so
as to prevent them from suffering. But
all the funds of both the city and county of Galveston have long since been
exhausted in supplying food to the poor and the families of absent soldiers.
And as the city is now nearly deserted by all who were able to leave, it
follows of course that the support of these families must be a heavy tax upon
the few persons of means who remain. It
should be remembered that it is now near a year since Galveston was blockaded,
during all which time the ordinary business of the city has been almost entirely
prostrated, and of course all those dependent on their daily labor for support
(and this is a large class in all seaports) have been compelled in a great
measure to receive assistance from the city and county and from charitable
citizens. These means of relief are
now exhausted and great suffering must be the consequence unless relief is sent
from the country. It should be
borne in mind that these families have not the means of removing to the
interior, nor if they had, have they any place to go to.
We would therefore suggest that those of our farmers and planters who
have corn to spare (and much of it is now being fast destroyed by the weevils)
should send a portion of it to the relief of those families.
We have been authorized to say that John S. Sellers, Esq., the Quarter
Master in Galveston, has consented to act as the receiver of any such donations,
and will receipt for the same to the charitable donors, pledging himself to make
a proper distribution among the poor. We
have further been assured that the several Railroad Companies have offered to
transport such donations, free of charge, over their respective roads, so that
the planters have only to deliver the corn or whatever else they have to spare
in the way of provisions, to the nearest railroad depots.
It has been suggested to me that these donations should be marked thus:
"DONATION TO THE POOR,
Care of JOHN S. SELLERS,
GALVESTON."
This mark will at once indicate to the Freight Agent the character and purpose
of the freight and of course he will pass it free.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 6, 1862, p. 2, c. 3 [Summary:
The killed and wounded of Moore's regiment--2d Tx infantry]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 14, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
The Goliad Messenger learns that there are five hundred refugees from Texas, now
in Monterey, who, in case our State is invaded, will be ready to take up arms
against us.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 14, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
FLOUR AND WHEAT MANUFACTURES.--We learn from a gentleman living near Austin that
the wheat crop in that section is generally excellent and earlier than usual,
owing to the dry and mild winter. The
scarcity of rain during the winter months has also had the effect to stop the
growth of the stalk; but though the wheat is not as high as usual, it is well
headed and will produce more than the usual yield. Our informant expects that his wheat will be ready for the
cradle by the 15th or 20th of this month, which is some two or three weeks
earlier than usual.
The scarcity of material for sacks to put up the flour, is likely, we
learn, to cause considerable delay in sending the new flour, or any more of the
flour of last year's crop, to the market. This
is probably one of the principal causes for the present scarcity of flour here,
and of the consequent advance in the price at this time, which, we learn, is
from $9 to $10 per 100 pounds. The
penitentiary osnaburgs is the best material we have for flour sacks, but this
cannot be had, as the government has engaged all the penitentiary goods that can
be made. This suggests the
importance of putting into requisition every means within our reach for domestic
manufacture of all articles of necessity. No time should be lost.
Cotton and wool should be speedily distributed to all parts of the State,
and all the cards and hand looms that can be had, should be kept constantly
employed. Looms and spinning wheels
can be manufactured at home, but the cards can only be had from abroad, but they
must be had no matter what the price. Let
our merchants bear this in mind, for it is impossible to overstock our market
with cards under the present obstacles to our trade.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 13, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
[For the "News."
Donations received at the C. S. Hospital, Galveston, for the month of April:
From the "Ladies Aid Society," of Danville, Montgomery county,
through Dr. Campbell--butter, eggs, chickens, candles, and socks. From Mr. E. H. Cushing, through Mr. Jas. Sorley, $26 40.
WM. R. ROBINSON
Surg. Genl. Hospital.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 13, 1862, p. 2, c. 1 [Summary: Reprint of "The Women of the South" by Mrs. M. B.
Moore, from the Richmond Dispatch]--rally cry
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 13, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Bryant's Station, May 3d, 1862.
Eds. News--
. . . The rains are abundant up here in Milam and Bell counties.
Wheat looks well and crops generally are very fine, though a great deal
of land is lying idle for want of somebody to cultivate it.
Every man has gone from here to the army.
Every man is doing his best. The
women and girls are plowing in the field and spinning and weaving in the house. So we go. We
cannot starve or go naked so long as our women are so resolute and patriotic.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, May 13, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
A Free Market in Houston.
Ed.
News:--Allow me to suggest that a Free Market be established in Houston, without
delay, for the benefit of the families of soldiers who are in the service of
their country. What say you, Mr.
Editor?
A Citizen.
We think the suggestion a good one, and shall be glad to see it carried out.
Aid for the Families of Soldiers.
Editors news:--I was glad to learn that efforts were being made to afford
relief to the families of soldiers who have gone to the war.
This is praiseworthy. I
trust liberal contributions in that direction will be made. Allow me to say Houston contains quite a number of soldiers'
families who need aid. Shall not
their wants also receive attention? Surely
the families of those, in both cities, who have gone to defend their country,
will not be permitted to suffer for the necessities of life.
Howard.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, May 18, 1862, p. 2, c. 7
The Poor of Galveston.
Bastrop, May 7th, 1862.
Editors of the News:--Gentlemen:
Your article in regard to the scarcity of provisions in Galveston has
attracted some attention, and it has been suggested that it would be better if
the poor families were sent into the country, where provisions are plenty, than
for to send provisions to them. Corn,
bacon and beef, in abundance, is to be had in all the interior counties of
Texas, but labor is very scarce. We
could employ, probably, in harvesting the coming crop, all the Galveston surplus
population--old men, women and children. The
wheat region is almost depopulated, and the abundant crops will have to go to
waste unless we have more laborers to assist in harvesting.
Surely, even women and children would have no objection to work for a
living in these war times.
Send them along and let the railroad conductors pass them free, as they
proposed to carry provisions to them free of charge.
N.
We would remark in reference to the foregoing communication that we have
no doubt many poor families in Galveston would gladly go into the country to get
employment and the means of supporting their families, if they had the means to
enable them to move, and places for their families to go.
If our correspondent will offer comfortable quarters to a certain number
of families and the means of subsistence, we have no doubt the offer will be
thankfully accepted, and every effort made to remunerate him by such services as
they can render, and if others will do the same thing, all the poor families in
Galveston may soon be comfortably provided for, and employment be given them
that will greatly benefit our planters and farmers.
This arrangement will be mutually beneficial to all parties, and those
poor people will thereby be saved the mortification of having to live under the
rule of the enemies of our country should they ever succeed in getting
possession of the Island City. On
this account we consider it of the utmost importance that Mr. N's proposition
should be carried into execution. But
in order to do so some provision must be made, as we have suggested, to give
shelter and employment to those families, and not require them to wander over
the country in search of homes, without knowing where to go to.
We hope some of our influential and benevolent citizens and planters will
take this matter in hand at once, and see what can be done.
Should Galveston have to be surrendered to the enemy, we hope they may
find it without a single inhabitant. With
ample provisions made for all to leave, no one could prefer to remain with the
enemy without being justly suspected.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 21, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Substitute for Quinine--The extremely high price for quinine renders it very
difficult for persons of moderate means to purchase it, and yet it has been
considered almost indispensable for the cure of our summer and autumnal fevers.
The best substitute for it, (if indeed it be not equal to the quinine
itself) may be obtained with all ease, by taking the inside bark of the red
dogwood (thought to be preferable to the white dogwood) cut it up fine and put
it into a kettle covered with pure water; then boil it down to the consistency
of molasses or jelly. During the
process of boiling, it should be strained once or twice to free it from all
impurities. After thus being boiled
down it may be put away in bottles.--When wanted for use, it can easily be made
into pills by mixing with flour.
The writer of this has known three cases of severe chills and fevers
cured within the last thirty days, by taking a few pills of three or four grains
each, in twenty four hours, taken every hour.
This information is obtained from an eminent Texas physician and chemist,
who has thoroughly tested the preparation in his last year's practice.--B.--Nat.
Union.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 21, 1862, p. 1, c. 3 [Summary: report of meeting of ladies of Austin in sympathy with the
ladies of occupied New Orleans]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 21, 1862, p. 1, c. 6 [Summary:
report from Richmond Dispatch relating offer of women of Pontotoc,
Mississippi of all jewelry for purchase of naval vessels]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 21, 1862, p. 1, c. 7
We are informed that there are now 209 convicts in the State Penitentiary, which
is now turning out near 6000 yards of osnaburg daily.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, May 21, 1862, p. 1, c. 7 [Summary: list of killed and wounded in Capt. Hood's company, Moore's
regiment (2nd Texas Infantry)]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, June 11, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We refer our readers to the third report of Capt. Longcope on behalf of the
Volunteer Relief Fund. It is now
three months since the Committee for raising this fund and disbursing it to
those for whom it is raised, commenced their labors.
This report shows the amount raised and the amount expended.
It is proper to mark that these labors are performed solely by Mrs.
Bremond, Mrs. Van Alstyne and Capt. Longcope, they alone having undertaken and
prosecuted this enterprise to this time. It
should be borne in mind that the funds are collected solely for the families of
volunteers, and are not and cannot be applied to the relief of any others.
The committee are now extending relief to as many as 40 families, and the
number is steadily on the increase.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, June 11, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Editors News.--At a meeting of the citizens of Wharton county, held at the
Courthouse, in Wharton, on Saturday, the 30th of May, 1862, Gov. A. C. Horton
was called to the chair, and Jas. D. Whitten appointed Secretary. Upon motion, the chairman then appointed the following
gentlemen a committee to draft resolutions, to-wit:
Jackson Rust, R. E. Davis, J. F. Roberts, B. F. Lee, W. J. Clayton, W. J.
Phillips and E. George, and upon motion the chairman was added.
The committee retired and reported the following:
Whereas--There are many families made homeless by the recent evacuation
of Galveston, therefore, be it--
Resolved.--That the citizens of Wharton feel it recumbent upon them to
render all such all the assistance in their power, and to carry into effect the
above resolution, the following named gentlemen be appointed a special and
standing committee: W. J. Phillips,
A. C. Horton, B. "F. Bee, R. E. Davis,
E. George, W. J. Clayton, J. F. Roberts, J. Rust, and Col. C.
S. Bolton.
The above committee agree to furnish houseroom in the town of Wharton and
vicinity for ten, or one dozen families, and also provisions for the same.
Resolved.--That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the Mayor of
Houston, and that he be requested to address R. E. Davis and W. J. Clayton in
regard to receiving any persons that may be sent here under the provisions of
these resolutions.
Resolved.--That the Galveston News and Houston Telegraph be furnished
with a copy of these resolutions, with request to publish.
Meeting then adjourned.
A. C. Horton, Chairman.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, June 11, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
Volunteer Relief Fund--Treasurer's Report No. 3.
April
12, to balance on hand
$1105 20
June 2, Cash received from various sources
up to date
782 90
_________
1888 10
By
amount expended to date
853 50
ญญญญ_________
Balance on hand this day
$1234 60
Charles S. Longcope.
Houston, June 2, 1862.
Treasurer.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, June 24, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Families are daily returning from the interior preferring Galveston with all its
perils to the great inconvenience of being from home.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, July 2, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Capt. Renfro tenders the thanks of his company, through the Telegraph, to those
ladies of Houston who have kindly alleviated the sufferings of the sick in his
company, by sending suitable food and comforts, such as they could not otherwise
obtain.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, July 2, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Affairs in Galveston.
The daring robbery committed a few nights ago on the premises of P. C.
Tucker, Esq., has produced quite a sensation here.
It is the earnest wish felt and expressed by all parties that the
vagabonds who perpetrated the foul theft may be discovered and brought to
justice. ... Mr. P. C. Tucker's residence was entered by burglars on Thursday
about midnight ... afterwards they paid a visit to the bedroom of Mrs. Capt. T.
C. Saunders, and while removing a purse from under her head, she awoke, upon
which the burglar attempted to gag her. In
an instant she drew a stiletto and thrust it in his face; he reeled, exclaiming,
"this d----d woman has stabbed me in the mouth."
Mrs. Saunders sprang from her bed, revolver in hand, and as he retreated
she fired upon him, (it is much to be regretted that the shot did not prove
fatal.) The scoundrel returned the
fire, the bullet grazing her and lodging in the ceiling.
The firing alarmed the family, and the burglars escaped by the parlor
window, leaping some twelve feet to the ground.
The stairs and parlor floor were well marked with blood, proving that the
lady's stiletto did its duty, whether the shot missed or not.... Mrs. Saunders
lost papers of much value, some jewelry and money.
The heroine of these remarks is the wife of the Capt. Saunders who so
highly distinguished himself on board the Royal Yacht, and who has since been
detained a prisoner at Fortress Monroe. We
would suggest that it is high time that effectual steps were taken in the proper
quarter for his deliverance from Yankee captivity. Mrs. Saunders has won golden opinions by her courage and
presence of mind under such trying circumstances.
... The city is gradually assuming a more cheerful appearance; ladies may
be seen promenading on the side walks of an evening, more lights are visible
from the houses at night, showing an increase in the population, and the people
generally think considerably less of Capt. Eagle with his infamous thread to
boot, than they do their own [illegible]
and pleasures.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, July 9, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
[For the News.
Donations received at the C. S. Gen'l Hospital, for the month of June:
From the "Ladies' Aid Society," of Courtney, several valuable gifts of
butter, eggs, and chickens.
From Messrs. L. H. Wood & Co., Houston, 18 dozen spoons, and 3 dozen knives
and forks.
From the Hempstead Aid Society, through Mr. N. W. Bush, an assortment of
crockery, tin-ware and domestic.
From the ladies of Huntsville, a quantity of clothing, sheets, towels, pillows,
pillow cases, and 12 1/2 bottles of blackberry wine.
From Mrs. Col. L. W. Groce, and other ladies of Hempstead, many welcome
donations of articles of diet, and comfort for the sick soldiers.
WM. R. ROBINSON.
Surgeon-General Hospital.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, July 30, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
Letter From Austin
Editorial
Correspondence.
Austin, July 21, 1862.
...Austin is unusually dull at this time, owing to the heavy drain made on the
population by those who have gone to the wars, and others who have got out of
the way to avoid conscription, or for some other purpose best known to
themselves. All day long, the
streets are literally deserted, except when a stage comes in, or a traveler
chances to arrive, with some rumors from the seat of war.
Then an anxious crowd may be seen gathering round, and greedily devouring
every report that comes in, which is generally contradicted the next day by some
fresh arrival. The News and Telegraph reach here regularly on alternate
days, so that we are about as well posted here as you are in Houston, saving the
advantage of time, which you have over us.
Occasionally we get an item of news from Arkansas ahead of you, but so
little dependence can be placed on any rumors that come in, I have not thought
them worth sending to you.
On Saturday morning I was awoke about daylight by a lively peal from the
bell of the Episcopal church, and in hurrying to the Post office, I met a few
long faces on the way, which showed at once important news had been received.
The glad tidings of victory soon flew through the town, and numbers,
living in the neighborhood, within sound of the bell, came riding in before
breakfast. No flags were hoisted,
salutes fired, or other demonstration made during the day, but nearly all those
I met in the streets seemed on remarkably good terms with themselves and every
body generally; and, had the Provost Marshal condescended to raise the blockade
for a few hours, I doubt not due honors would have been done to the occasion,
according to ancient custom. Posters
were put up, calling upon the citizens to meet at the several churches on Sunday
(yesterday) morning, to join in "returning special thanks to Almighty God,
for the important successes that had crowned our arms, and driven the remnant of
our invading foe from our soil." Bishop
Gregg officiated at the Episcopal church, and preached a most excellent sermon
to a crowded congregation, composed mostly of ladies.
His remarks were peculiarly happy in relation to the present occasion;
and the glowing eloquence with which he depicted some of the horrors of this
unnatural war was truly sublime and impressive. I have heard it suggested to-day that he will be solicited to
allow his discourse to be printed, and should he consent to do so, I can only
hope it may be read throughout the length and breadth of the land, and more
especially throughout this region of country, within fifty miles of Austin. ...
D. R.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 6, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
Lamar, Refugio Co., Texas,
July 12, 1862.
Editors Galveston News.--On the 9th inst. the Federals entered Aransas Bay in a
small schooner, with about 50 or 60 men and captured a schooner and 52 bales of
cotton upon a lighter. Having
secured this, the officer in command, (Capt. Kittridge) with his surgeon as
bearer of flag of truce landed and held a conversation with some of the ladies
of Lamar, assuring them that he should trouble no one as long as he was
unmolested, but should he be fired upon, he would shell down the town, &c.
...
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 13, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
Prices in San Antonio.--The Herald says flour in San Antonio is $20 per sack,
that is, $40 per bbl., corn meal $2.50 per bushel, and sugar, molasses, salt,
and all other edibles in the same proportion.
Calico 75 cents per yard, shoes $8 to $10, and boots $20 a pair, and all
other necessaries in proportion. These
are the prices of provisions while, says the editor, there is an abundance of
provisions in the country, and he attributes this advance on all former prices
to a depreciation of Confederate paper.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 13, 1862, p. 1, c. 6 [Summary: atrocity story, including rape, from Holly Springs area of
Mississippi]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 20, 1862, p. 1, c. 2 [Summary: recommendation of Laurel Hill Academy, Fort Worth, Tarrant
county, J. C. Armistead and lady, teachers]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, Aug. 27, 1862, p. 1, c. 2 [Summary: additional casualties in 2d Texas Infantry]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, August 27, 1862, p. 1, c. 6
No Use for Quinine.--Ed. Mississippian:
I beg to make public through the medium of your paper, the following
certain and thoroughly tried cure for ague and fever:
1 pint of cotton seed, 2 parts of water boiled down to one of tea, taken
warm one hour before the expected attack. Many
persons will doubtless laugh at this simple remedy, but I have tried it
effectually, and unhesitatingly say it is better than quinine, and could I
obtain the latter article at a dime a bottle I would infinitely prefer the
cotton seed tea. It will not only
cure, invariably, but permanently, and is not at all unpleasant to the taste.
Yours truly, &c.
H. G. D. Brown, Copish co., Miss.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 3, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
A letter dated Sabine, Aug. 22d, says:
"There are about forty cases of yellow fever here in a mild form.
Two are said to be dying this morning.
There are from three to six new cases every 24 hours."
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 3, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Relief of the Poor of Galveston.--The committee appointed by the city
council to relieve the needy families that were compelled to leave Galveston,
through their chairman, H. F. Fisher, report to the Mayor and council of
Houston, that their total receipts have amounted to $1,470 25, and total
disbursements $1,245 15, leaving a balance of $225 10.
The number of families being relieved is 25, requiring $302 50 per month.
The Mayor reports the receipt of $1000 from the State Officers
Association of Austin; from the ladies of Austin, $190; from Lavenburg &
Bro., of San Antonio, $100; from F. D. Allen, $50; from E. H. Cushing, $26; from
W. Lord, Austin, $10, making in all $1,376.
The Mayor says:
"I would respectfully beg leave to state to the benevolent citizens
of Houston and Galveston that this Association is now greatly in need of more
funds, as we have near 25 families from Galveston still depending upon our
exertions. Our funds are exhausted,
and the pauper list of our city is much larger than usual and daily
increasing."
The report of H. D. Taylor, Treasurer, acknowledges the receipt of $1,050
from T. W. House; $104 25 from J. K. Holland, and $316 00 from T. W.
House--total $1,470 25, of which he has disbursed $1,340 00, leaving balance of
$156 25 on hand.
We would be glad to receive from the Mayor and Chief Justice of
Galveston, and from Associations and individuals in that city, the amounts
disbursed by them for the relief of the poor in that city since the blockade.
It is but justice to the donors of the large amounts thus expended that
their charities should be known to the public.
In the absence of any specific report, we can only say that the aggregate
extends to many thousands of dollars.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, September 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Bombardment of Corpus Christi.
We have heard many vague reports of late about an attempt by the enemy to
take Corpus Christi, but have refrained from saying anything on that subject for
the want of reliable and definite information.
We now learn, however, on good authority, that the enemy, having removed
the obstructions in the channel, went up near the city and sent a flag of truce
demanding the surrender of the city. This
was on Friday, the 15th last, Maj. Hobby replied that he would not surrender the
town, nor would fire upon them until they attempted to land, in which case he
would make the best defence [sic] possible.
They then left, but returned the next day with several schooners and a
propeller, and took soundings within sixty yards of the wharf.
But as Maj. Hobby had said he would not fire upon them without their
attempted to land, so no gun was fired. The
enemy again went away, but returned the third time on next day (Sunday) and
commenced bombarding the city, continuing to fire as rapidly as they could from
day light til 11 1/2 A.M. The fire
was vigorously returned by Maj. Hobby from two 32-pounders, two 18-pounders and
one 12 pounder. The enemy then
retired. They are said to have had
seven small vessels including one propeller.
The town was badly damaged, almost every building having been perforated
with the shells. Only one person on
our side was hurt, and this was a gentleman from Bell county, whose name we have
not received. He was killed by a
hot. There were sufficient
evidences that the enemy suffered quite as much if not more than our men, for
broken fragments of the enemy's vessels were drifted ashore by cart loads, and
the propeller finally used her sails only when she left, evidently having her
machinery too much damaged to get up steam.
They, however, returned again on Monday morning, the 18th inst., and
renewed the bombardment, continuing to throw shells from 9 A.M. till about 12
M., when they again left, having probably received fully as good as they sent,
and more than they had bargained for.
On Tuesday they returned to the bombardment a third time, but left again
after firing some 60 shells. No
more lives were lost on our side, nor a single person wounded, but the town, we
learn, has been badly damaged, some of the best houses being perforated by 15 or
20 shells each. Very few of the
enemy's shells exploded, and this probably accounts for the few casualties.
Every man in Corpus Christi and in the vicinity, able to bear arms,
participated in the fight, but of course their rifles and muskets could not be
made available at such a distance. The
whole number of men under Maj. Hobby was between 700 and 800, about 200 of whom
were volunteers.
...Our
informant was not present at this bombardment, but reached the vicinity about
the time, on his way from Brownsville, and the above account was given him by
those who participated. The women and children left the city before the bombardment
commenced. Our informant did not
learn that the enemy effected a landing at all, but we see by the account in the
Goliad Messenger that on one occasion forty of the Federals landed, but were
immediately charged by twenty of our men, and driven back to their boats, with a
loss of four of their number killed or wounded.
It appears, from the Messenger, that the name of the man killed in Maj.
Hobby's battalion was Mote. A
grape-shot passed through his head, and grazed the forehead of Maj. Hobby, but
without inflicting much injury on the latter.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Galveston, Sept. 2d, 1862.
The Galveston "City Relief Committee" acknowledge the receipt
of the following donations, since last report:
From Mr. E. S. Ufford, cash,
$20 00
"
" Joseph Sauters
"
100 00
"
" James Sorley, [Being balance of
Houston Concert fund]
267 00
"
Capt. J. S. Sellers
50 00
"
Donation--proceeds, 2 pair shoes
7 00
Also in Provisions.
Mr. James Sorley, from Concert fund, 159 sacks corn; 7 sacks corn meal; 6 sacks
bacon. Messrs. Hendley & Co., 1
hhd sugar; Mr. J. H. Williams, purchased with his $50 donation, 300 lbs bacon;
Funds of general subscription to Mrs. Southwick, 2 bbls molasses, 1 sack of
flour.
We commenced distributing to the poor 23d of last May affording relief to one
hundred and sixty eight (168) families, most of them soldiers wives and
children--some few widows and sick families.
For the committee:
A. B. Reading, Secretary.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 1, c. 1 [Summary: slave insurrection rumor, from Cunningham's to Austin,
reported in La Grange paper]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Penitentiary Goods.--While citing attention to the following letter from our
Governor, we would state that we have just seen a letter from an officer of the
Penitentiary in reply to an inquiry for goods, stating that the orders now on
hand cannot be filled in less than from five to seven months, and that the
actual consumer cannot therefore get any, and of course the retailer and
speculator need not apply, as they are the last to be supplied.
Executive Department,
Austin, August 9th, 1862.
General John S. Besser, F. A., State Penitentiary Huntsville.
Sir: I find it impossible for me to
give attention to the many communications received in regard to the disposition
of goods manufactured at the Penitentiary.
I regret that the capacity of the institution is not sufficient to supply
the wants of the entire community.
As I have repeatedly said to you, our Texas soldiers in the service of
the Confederacy and State must be first cared for.
They are continually exposed to the vicissitudes of climate, weather,
&c., and to make them efficient they must be provided with clothing.
After you have supplied their wants, then their families should be
relieved to the utmost of your ability. Next
in turn should be provided the actual consumer.
While our country is in its present condition not one yard of cloth
should be sold to retailers or speculators.
In regard to the details of supplying cloth, it must be arranged by you.
I cannot undertake to act upon the many cases presented to me.
The officers of the Penitentiary are expected to discharge their duties
promptly, faithfully, impartially, and efficiently, and they will be held to
strict accountability for any dereliction of duty.
You can publish this letter for the benefit of the public, and adopt such
rules under the supervision of the directory, as to the distribution of cloth,
as will best subserve the public interest.
Yours very respectfully,
F. R. Lubbock.
Note--All communication to, or orders upon, the State Penitentiary, will be
addressed to Gen. John S. Besser, the Financial agent of that institution.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Supply Association.
Mr. Schleicher addresses the people of San Antonio through the papers
there informing them that an Association had been formed of which he is
president, the object of which is to procure the necessaries of life at as
reasonable prices as possible, before it is too late, to prevent the families of
soldiers and others in that city who may be in want, from suffering.
He says there is reason to fear that the difficulty of obtaining supplies
may be much greater than at present, and therefore no time should be lost in
seeking some proper measure of relief.
The plan adopted is very similar to the one alluded to by us the other
day, except that the object of the Association here would be chiefly to import
from abroad, though we think it might also make it a part of its business to
procure flour and other products of the country from the interior, so as to
enable the destitute to procure them at prices within their power to pay.
We copy from Mr. Schleicher's Address:
"An association has been formed among a number of citizens in the
form of a stock company, for the purpose of importing into this city flour, corn
and other necessaries of life, and for selling all such articles at a price to
cover costs, charges, and an interest of eight per cent. per annum on the money,
and no more.
The subscriptions already obtained have enabled our association to
commence with the purchase of provisions and the kind and generous assistance of
our military authorities, which should command the gratitude of our population,
has enabled us to obtain means of transportation.
But our means are not sufficient. There
are many reasons which should prompt us to make all our exertions at once, and
obtain all the means, which our community will afford for our purpose, without
delay. Corn and flour is everywhere
cheaper at present and can be purchased with less difficulty, than it ever will
be until next crop. A time may come
soon when the only portion of our State where flour can be purchased, we may not
be able to get any at any price; and the time may also come, when the
necessities of the war may be so urgent, that no means of transportation can be
spared for us at all. Our internal
communications may be temporarily suspended.
What can be done therefore at all should be done at once, and all our
means should be forthcoming now to purchase enough to guard against future want.
In the name of our association, I therefore invite all to join their good
will and their means with ours. No
one enjoys a monopoly of this work, nor is it especially incumbent on any one.
It is the privilege and the duty of all alike.
Do not wait for personal calls or invitations, but let every one who
desires to assist us come forward and do all he can, and do it without delay.
We do not undertake to provide for all.
We will attempt to supply the wants of the families of the stockholders
and of all who have no means of contributing by taking a share, and we must
confine ourselves to the residents of town.
The inhabitants of the county outside of town, and those of our fellow
citizens who have the means but not the desire to become stockholders, will
still have to rely upon private commerce for their wants.
But the families of soldiers and all others who shall need assistance
will have all the facilities we can afford them.
The amount of one share is $100 00, and the list is open to all at Mesrs.
Florian & Jefferson's store."
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Worth Knowing--In the present scarcity of quinine, it is worth knowing that the
berry of the common dogwood will break fevers as successfully as quinine.
We know four plantations where they used it successfully last summer.
One pill is a dose. The
season is now at hand to collect and dry them for use, they will prove
invaluable at home and in the hospitals of our soldiers.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, September 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
An Item for Abe Lincoln.
Richmond, Texas, Sept. 3d, '62.
Eds.
News:--Please make it known, for the comfort of Abe Lincoln, and all others
interested, that on the 30th of August, 1862, the ladies and gentlemen of color
gave a Tableaux in this place, for the benefit of the members of Terry's
regiment from Fort Bend county. Said
Tableaux was a success. The net
proceeds amounted to $84 95, which sum is now in hand and will be forwarded to
the Captain of Co. H., in said regiment, in a few days.
Perhaps Hunter, after seeing this, will think proper to send an officer,
to recruit for his black regiment, to this county.
Perhaps he will!
Yours,
* * *
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 17, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We stated the other day that Dr. George Holland had visited Sabine Pass with a
view to ascertain the facts in relation to the reports of yellow fever in that
place. It appears that he made this
visit at the request of Col. A. W. Spaight, who is in command of the troops
stationed near the Pass. In his
report to Col. S. he states facts that can leave no doubt of the existence of
yellow fever there. At the time of
his visit he says there had been between fifty and sixty cases, twenty five of
which terminated fatally, with black vomit in most of them. Among the troops there were eleven cases, three of which were
doubtful, seven convalescent, and one just taken. ... The greater portion of the
inhabitants have fled, and the disease must therefore soon disappear for want of
a material to feed upon.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, September 17, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Attack on Corpus Christi--Yankees Gloriously Repulsed.
Corpus Christi, Aug. 19th, '62.
Dear News:--The Yankees having given us a respite, I improve the opportunity to
give you a short account of matters and things since their appearance before
this city.
On Tuesday, the 12th inst., the blockading squadron, having removed all
obstructions in the ship channel, entered this bay, chasing some of our boats,
one of which they captures, (the others were burned to prevent a similar fate,)
and towards sun down they quietly dropped anchor within short range of the
shore. Next morning, the commander
of the squadron came on the wharf, under a flag of truce, and had a conference
with Maj. Hobby. Strange to say,
two armed gunboats accompanied his barge to the wharf, and covered the party
during the conference. The conduct
he excused at the subsequent interview by stating that he had received
information that the people of this community would not respect a flag of truce,
where he was concerned. I do not
care to make any comment on this, further than to state that, in my view of the
matter, the whole proceeding was a positive insult.
At the first interview, he claimed the right to come ashore and inspect
the public buildings, &c--a virtual, if not a formal demand for surrender.
He was told coolly and positively that he would be attacked if he
attempted to land. He then said,
"we must fight," but professed a great deal of hollow sympathy for the
women and children, and asked Maj. Hobby to designate some battlefield where the
differences could be arranged without interfering with the city.
Our commanding officer simply repeated the intimation that he should not
be permitted to land. Another
interview was then arranged for 4 o'clock that afternoon, at which time the
Yankee officer exhibited himself as a braggart and blusterer--wished to pick
personal quarrels with some of our officers, and hinted that when we had seen
the range of his guns, which he intended to show us next day, we would come to
his terms. After hearing his
ultimatum, and our reply thereto, the conference broke up, and we were notified
to remove our women and children within forty-eight hours.
So far the conduct of Maj. Hobby as a diplomat was excellent, and
strongly in contrast with that of the blustering Yankee, Kitredge.
Next day he threw some shot and shell up the bay to show us what he could
do, and doubtless was exceedingly surprised that we did not forthwith dispatch a
flag with an offer of unconditional surrender.
In the mean time the news had spread through the country and the men of
the neighboring counties flocked in--my neighborhood San Patricio county, came
here almost to a man. This proof of
readiness on the pat of all to sacrifice every thing rather than permit the foot
of the invader to pollute our soil, was highly gratifying to the patriot, at the
same time that he was called on to witness the disgusting struggle going on
betwixt property and patriotism, in the breasts of some owners of real estate.
I regret to say that more than one of the most respectable citizens of
Corpus Christi would rather see the Yankees permitted to come ashore than that a
shot or shell should perforate their concrete and frame buildings.
May their reward be made manifest!
The forty-eight hours truce expired on Friday evening at 6 o'clock; the
families had been quietly removed; there was no excitement--we waited quietly to
see them open the ball. The did not
do so, and we were afraid that Kitredge would act like Eagle, at Galveston, and
accordingly we opened fire on him at 5 o'clock on Saturday morning and fired
some 4 shots at him before he got awake. We
are informed by one who conversed with his engineer that he was thunder-struck.
His surprise at our audacity was beyond description.
He poured in all his guns at the batteries and the town, and succeeded in
killing three head of cattle and one dog, and slightly wounding one man.
His boats were struck five times, as he acknowledges but with what result
we cannot tell. It is not probable his crews escaped without injury.
Next day both parties respected the Sabbath, and on yesterday, he having
his force of five vessels in line, succeeded in landing a gun and opened a heavy
fire on our battery. The party from
the boats, numbering about 60, moved on the city as they fired.--but when our
troops got on the beach, Maj. Hobby called for 25 volunteers, and at their head
gallantly charged the gun; at about two hundred yards we poured in a volley and
sent them to the "right about" in double quick time. Warie's cavalry charged also in face of the heavy fire from
the vessels, but before they could get half way, the Yankees were in their
boats, and the disappointed horsemen rapidly retraced their steps under a
dangerous fire of shell and grape. We
had one man killed and none wounded. Of
course we can not tell the Yankee boys, but I certainly saw them drag off two
men, who were either killed or badly wounded.
Others say they saw four killed, but it is uncertain.
I state what I saw. Our
battery continued to pour shot into the steamer until she withdrew out of range.
She was struck in this engagement five times, as was also the sloop and
schooner. They moved out of range
of the battery very quickly and commenced at safe distance to shell the town.
After venting their spite and disappointment in this manner for two
hours, they dropped down to take a position for shelling the battery.
But one of our eighteen was fired at the steamer three times--two shots
striking her, and they rapidly retired, thus ending as sharp a fight, all things
considered, as any naval action of the war, and proving that Corpus Christi will
neither be surrendered, nor can it be taken by any force that they can bring
through Aransas Pass against us. Vicksburg
has not acted more nobly than our little city.
Where all acted well, it would be invidious to specify individual instances of
bravery. Suffice it to say, our men
acted as veterans, and never did I see guns more coolly handled that were ours
during yesterday's engagement. You
know, of course, it is impossible to please every one, but I believe Maj. Hobby
is generally considered "the right man in the right place."
I know he is as brave as steel.
The Yankee vessels have put out this morning, but I am certain they will return
again. The damage to the town was
trifling--five hundred dollars would repair damages.
They have expended at least ten thousand dollars worth of patent
projectiles to do this trifling injury. More
anon.
T. H. O'C.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 17, 1862, p. 2 c. 6
The Goliad Messenger of the 4th inst., learns by an expressman that the yellow
fever is in Indianola. One soldier
has died and another was dying when he left.
The troops will probably be removed.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 24, 1862, p. 1, c. 4
Augusta Factory Goods sold for the following prices at the sale this morning:
1-8 shirting, 41@42 cents; 4 4 sheeting, 45 1/4@ 45 3/4 cents.
Graniteville "Domestics sold as follows:
7 8 shirting, 42 1/2 cents; 3/4 shirting, 30 cents; 4-4 sheeting, 45 1/2@46
cents.
Hopewell Factors, 7 oz. Osnaburgs, sold for 45 1/2 cents.
Osnaburgs (8 ox.) manufactured by Gibbs & co., Columbia, sold for 49 1/4
cents.--Augusta Sentinel.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 24, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
MAKE YOUR OWN CLOTH.--The people of Texas are learning the practical lesson of
independence in the only school in which it probably ever could be successfully
inculcated upon the Southern people--that of necessity.
It is now plain we must make our own cloth or do without it, and we trust
there is not a man or woman in Texas who would not prefer this alternative,
rather than have the southern market opened again to Yankee goods, no matter how
cheap. We rejoice to learn from
many parts of the State that the Texas women are going to work in earnest upon
domestic manufacturers, and that the old spinning wheel and hand loom are again
being brought into requisition. This
is evidence not only that we shall be independent, but that we deserve to be a
free people.--The Huntsville Item says:
"The time was, when Texans were noted for their 'homespun' independence;
they can be so again--This universal dependence on one factory is a shame to our
name. We went, a few days ago to
try and get a small lot of cloth for the family of a friend, for this winter's
use; but were told we could file the affidavit--perhaps the order would be
reached next June! If our arguments
could be so put as to convince very family in the State of the beauty as well as
necessity, of relying on home industry for the bulk of their wearing apparel, we
would feel more gratified than Gen. Lee over his late victories--It would be one
without blood. Too much has the
fashion been, to "make cotton!" let it be modified, and hereafter let
it be fashionable, as well as economical, to 'MAKE CLOTH!'"
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, September 24, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Hempstead, September 22d, 1862.
Editor News:--Rev. W. T. Harris sends you here with a vial of ink, with which
this letter is written. It is
produced from very cheap material, and may be furnished in any quantities
wanted, at less than half the present wholesale price of the article.
The art of manufacturing it was learned by Mrs. Harris many years ago
from her father, a very ingenious chemist of Nashville, who sold his ink there
to great advantage, and it was considered fully equal to any imported ink,
excelling most other in beauty and durability.
Mr.
Harris wishes you to test it, and if satisfactory, to make you the medium of
disseminating the article in a way that will be remunerative to you as well as
himself. Everything of this kind
ought to meet with prompt encouragement.
Yours,
&c.
T. J. Cooke.
We have
tested the above ink, and find it to be all it is represented and superior to
the Northern ink we yet have on hand.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 1, 1862, p. 1, c. 7
Knitting for the Soldiers.--This is an important matter, says the Charleston
Mercury, and one which we hope will engage the early and earnest attention of
all the women of the country who have it in their power to aid in providing for
the wants of our brave soldiers. The
season for cold weather is rapidly approaching.
In a very few weeks our soldiers will require their supplies of winter
clothing. Among the articles they
will need, and which should be furnished them with as little delay as possible,
are good, warm, comfortable socks. The
pittance which the soldiers received from the government for clothing, is not
enough to supply them with outer clothing along; and hence many are unable to
pay for their under clothing, which their necessities compel them to have.
Last year at this time, there were thousands of fair fingers busily
employed in knitting for the soldiers, and thanks to the untiring efforts of the
noble hearted women of the South, the defenders of the country were as
comfortably clad during the last winter, as could have been expected.
Next winter, there will be more than double the number of soldiers in the
field that were last, and renewed and redoubled exertions will be necessary in
order to prevent suffering in their ranks from the want of sufficient clothing. It is the duty of those who remain at home to provide for
those [illegible], and we feel assured that those who have fathers, husbands,
sons, brothers, and friends in the army, will not fail to do all that love,
patriotism and duty require.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 8, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We hear that the scarcity of medicines some time since so much complained of, is
now obviated. We learn on good
authority that there is now an unusual large supply of medicines in the State,
in the hands of merchants.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, October 8, 1862, p. 1, c. 4
Galveston.
We have just made a visit to Galveston for the first time
in near six months, a longer period than we have before been absent from that
city for nearly 20 years. During
these six months we find some material changes have taken place.
Even before that, the business of the city had been entirely prostrated
by the blockade. All incomes from
rents and all other sources had ceased, all trade had departed and the poor
laboring man could find no employment to support his family.
But still the inhabitants had no other home, nor property or means of
support any where else, and this made it necessary for nearly the entire
population to remain there as long as possible, or as long as they could do so
on their previously accumulated means, for as long as these means lasted they
could live there in some degree of independence, while by removing their means
would soon be exhausted by the increased expenses, and many would be thrown upon
the charity of strangers for a support. It
was natural therefore that they should desire to continue in possession of their
homesteads in Galveston as long as they could do so in safety, though most of
the people had removed their most valuable furniture, &c., to places of
greater security. But few had
therefore abandoned the city at the time we were compelled, by the loss of our
office, to make our residence in Houston. Soon
after that came the threat of bombardment and a notice for the women and
children to leave the city within four days.
As it was not supposed the enemy would be guilty of the meanness of
making such a threat without any intention of executing, nearly all the families
left accordingly and the remaining property was removed as far as practicable,
though not without the sacrifice of probably several hundred thousand dollars,
and often nearly all the families had to support them, and preparations were
made to encounter the threatened bombardment with the best defense that could be
made. It was finally discovered
that the only object of the threat was to frighten the people into a surrender
of the city without a fight, and not being able to accomplish this, the
blockaders have remained very quiet ever since.
However the citizens suffered almost as much from the threat itself as
they would have done from its execution, while the enemy have doubtless suffered
far less. It was indeed a cheap way
of inflicting injury upon us, though they accomplished nothing for
themselves--The effect was an almost entire desertion of the city, except by the
troops and those who remained to assist in the defence [sic].
After spending several months in different parts of the interior many
families commenced returning, after having encountered almost ruinous expenses
and losses, and many having suffered severely by sickness, owing to the change
of climate. In many instances their
return has been rendered necessary pecuniarily, as they can live there at their
own homes at less expense than elsewhere. We
therefore found a large portion of the families once more at their homes in the
delightful Island City, and others are returning almost daily, so that the city
no longer presents the deserted appearance that has made it so desolate during
the past Summer. We found the
markets in each of the three wards thronged almost as much as in former days for
although the place is still destitute of business, yet the people must have the
means of subsistence as long as they have any thing left to pay for it, and they
can buy most of the necessaries of life cheaper in Galveston than in many places
in the interior.--Vegetables are becoming there quite abundant and cheap, while
fish and oysters were never better or cheaper than now, and all fresh meat can
be h ad as good and at as low a price as in this city, though corn meal flour,
bacon, lard, butter, &c., are somewhat higher.
We
found a few stores of dry goods and family groceries open with small stocks to
support the gradually increasing demand as the people return to their homes, but
all the large business houses on the Strand and on other streets are closed and
must continue so until the blockade is removed.
Perhaps the most prominent feature of Galveston consists in its beautiful
gardens of flowers and shrubbery which are found at every residence in all parts
of the city, and which present a most attractive appearance to the stranger from
the taste with which they have been improved.
During the absence of the proprietors, these have sometimes been
depredated upon as was to be expected, and grape arbors have often been damaged,
and many of the oranges, lemons, bananas, &c., have been taken in an unripe
state.
The
shrubbery is generally so hid in the more neglected gardens with the luxurious
growth of grass and weeds that it can hardly be seen.
However, we find these gardens in a better state of preservation than we
had expected.
Among
the vegetables we noticed sweet potatoes, butter, beans, snap beans, cabbage and
mustard greens, okra and eggplant in abundance, 20 or 30 cents will buy as much
as most families want. In the fish
market there are croakers, sheep head, shrimp, &c., and a shinplaster dime
will buy a mess of fine panfish for a family.
The meat market is well supplied with excellent beef, veal, pork and
mutton, the price the same as formerly, that is 5 or 6 cents for beef, 8 cents
for veal and 10 or 12 cents for pork and mutton, the present currency buying
just as much as gold and silver formerly. And
yet the butchers have probably suffered more than most others, as, at the time
of the threatened bombardment, their cattle were driven from the Island to the
main land and have since been scattered all over the surrounding country; and
they will probably never be able to get half of them again.
Numbers were also killed in the effort to drive them away, yet many still
remain.
We were
gratified to see that the troops in Galveston are still regularly drilled and
kept in the constant discharge of their duties and all the time in readiness to
meet any attack that may be made upon that city.
Col. Cook, who is now in command there, is one of the most vigilant and
active, as well as popular officers in this department.
During
three nights in the week, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the military band
assemble upon an elevated platform erected in the centre [sic] of the spacious
public square, and discourses most excellent music with a very large variety of
musical instruments, that can be heard nearly all over the city especially in
still nights. We notice a decided
improvement in their performance attributable to their constant practice during
the past summer. Indeed, notwithstanding their misfortunes the people at
Galveston have many sources of enjoyment left in their city.
In our
visit to Chief Justice Cole we found him employed just as we left him six months
ago, namely, furnishing the means of subsistence to the many poor families of
absent soldiers. The amount
disbursed in this way by the county since the commencement of the war has fallen
but little short of $1000 per month. And
yet, Galveston is one among the very few counties that has never issued any
shinplasters--neither have any been issued by the city.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 8, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
The
Supply of Sugar.--This is a question of considerable moment to us at this time,
as we are cut off from all other means of supply, except what may be produced
from our own soil. And it is
extremely questionable, whether from the disturbed condition of the sugar region
in Louisiana, the quantity produced there this season, after deducting the
stealage of the enemy, will be adequate to the home demand; and it is understood
that nearly all the negroes on the coast have been captured and are held by the
enemy.
We are
ourselves under the stress of a scanty supply, the extreme dry weather during
the summer having curtailed a crop not by any means sufficient to furnish the
population of our own State, and the market is running up to fabulous prices.
We
trust this fact will not be overlooked by our planters, and that the crop of the
forthcoming year will be sufficiently enlarged to meet the consumption of the
State and the soldiers, who may be accessible to our supply.
We are well aware that our climate is somewhat too fickle to justify its
extension in a season of peace, when we may have access to other markets; but in
a crisis like the present we should strive to render ourselves independent in
every article of prime necessity. Our
planters sufficiently conversant would do well to risk that portion of their
crops last year given to cotton to the production of sugar.
We thus
early introduce the notice of this subject that the seed cane may be engaged and
horse mills prepared for grinding in season for the next crop.--So long as the
war lasts it cannot fail to be a profitable culture, and although the prices may
be high, we may be assured of a reasonable supply.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, October 8, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
The Attack on Galveston.
. . . As well as we can learn the result of the last
interview with the enemy was that four days from Saturday night, should be
allowed for the removal of the women and children and of all who desired to
leave, but whether the terms embraced a surrender of the city at the end of the
four days, we cannot learn. It is
said that during this time the enemy agreed not to bring their gunboats nearer
the city. . . Since this suspension of hostilities the inhabitants of the city
have been removing as fast as practicable, and the cars and one steamer are now
constantly engaged day and night in removing the people with their effects.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
There has been no surrender of Galveston made to the enemy, but the place has
been entirely abandoned by both the military and civil authorities, and the
enemy took possession of the place much in the same way Lafitte did some 45
years ago. We learn that there were
some dozen disloyal renegades to welcome the Yankees.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
It has been stated in the last 24 hours that there is a case of yellow fever in
our city. We are assured that our
physicians who have seen the patient agree in pronouncing it yellow fever.
Yellow Fever in Matagorda--We take the following from yesterday's Telegraph.
We trust the sickness is not so bad as it would appear to be by this
account:
We regret much to learn that yellow fever has become epidemic in
Matagorda. There were three deaths
on Saturday. There is a want there
of medical aid, nurses and medicines. Volunteers
who desire to do a work of humanity should go at once.
Take the train to-day at 10 o'clock to Columbia.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Mr. T. M. Bagby authorizes us to inform the citizens of Galveston that his
warehouse is open for the storage of household furniture, etc., free of charge.
This prompt and liberal offer will doubtless be fully appreciated by the
unfortunate inhabitants of Galveston, who are now driven from their homes and
deprived of nearly all their earthly possessions.
Even the wealthiest among them have now generally but little left, after
their heavy expenditures and losses for the last 1? months, during which time
they have been in a constant state of uncertainty and in daily apprehension of
an attack from the enemy. Their
worst fears have now been realized; and they are compelled to seek new homes
after their means have been well night exhausted.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We hear it reported that the Yankee commander off Galveston says he
simply came to Galveston to raise the Union flag on the customhouse, and as long
as that is respected or not disturbed, he will not molest anybody, but that all
may pursue their business as heretofore. It
is also reported that he has consented to give six days more for all the
inhabitants to remove who desire to do so.
We, however, place no confidence in these reports though brought by
passengers who came from Galveston by last evening's train.
It is of course understood that the train will not make another trip to
Galveston. We learn that very few
of the inhabitants have been left in Galveston.
Of those who have voluntarily chosen to remain and take the chances of
Yankee rule, there are some who are no doubt true to us; but there is every
reason to believe that many of them will prove traitors to the South.
We understand, however, that but few remain.
The
citizens were addressed by Col. M. M. Potter and Gen. Howard.
The former stated that he had been requested by the military authorities
to inform them of the true condition of things, that the enemy's gunboats were
in the harbor and commanded the city--that there was no means of defense and
that accordingly the troops had all been ordered from the city--that all
communication with the city was prohibited while in possession of the
enemy--that no supplies would be allowed to go to those who remained, and no
trade whatever would be allowed--that those who remained should be apprised of
this before hand, and make up their minds with a full knowledge of the facts.
Gen. T. B. Howard followed Col. Potter in a few remarks.
He said his duty as commander of the militia of this brigade required of
him to enroll every able bodied man for the service between the ages of 18 and
50 years--that he had a force already under arms to enforce compliance with this
law, whenever an attempt should be made to evade it, and he accordingly notified
them that before leaving the Island, he should, in the discharge of his duty,
endeavor to take with him every man subject to the requirements of the law.
We understand that some few attempted to secret themselves, and were
arrested, but that others probably made good their escape from the military.
Since writing the above we learn that very few were left in Galveston
when the train departed for this place last evening, and that very nearly all
the property had been removed that could be of any use to the enemy.
We also learn that a dispatch has been received this morning to the
effect that the Federals took possession of the city about 9 A.M. to-day, during
a heavy storm, and raised the Yankee flag over the Custom House.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
CLOTHING FOR OUR SOLDIERS.--We invite the attention of our readers to the
following official notice. It
should never be forgotten that all we have is now at stake, and that not only
the present, but future generations are now dependent on the soldiers who are
fighting the battles of our country, and who must suffer intensely during the
coming winter, unless some provisions are made for to protect them from the
inclemency of the weather. They
have the glorious example of the suffering army of Washington before them, and
we doubt not their patriotism will be found equal to that of our revolutionary
fathers in bearing up against the hardships of a winter campaign, but it is our
imperative duty to alleviate their sufferings to the full extent of our means to
do so.
Clothing.
Clothing Bureau, Trans-Miss., Dep'mt.
Little Rock, Ark., Sept. 17, 1862
This is to certify that, S. S. Jones of Col. T. C. Hawpe's Texas Cavalry,
is hereby authorized to proceed to Texas, and procure any and all Clothing that
the citizens may wish to send to their friends in the army, and hire or buy
wagons and teams, and take the same to Fort Smith, Ark., the hire or purchase
money [?] to be paid on the arrival of the articles at Fort Smith, by Major
Pierce, A.Q.M.C.S.A. He is also
authorized to purchase, at a fair price, Soldiers Clothing--being careful to
select such as is suitable for the service--the same to be paid for by Major
Pierce, on the delivery of the articles to him.
The parties interested sending an agent to sign receipts for the articles
delivered, and to receive the money.
John Burton, Major & A.Q.M.
Chief of Clothing Bureau,
Trans-Miss., Department.
To the Public.
Having been appointed and agent for the Government, to receive and
receipt for any and all Clothing, which friends and relatives may wish to send
to the soldiers in the direction of Missouri, and also, to furnish
transportation for the same to Fort Smith, Ark., I will say for the benefit of
all concerned, that the transportation, will be ready by the 25th of October.
I will designate Bonham, Dallas, Waco and Austin, as convenient points of
deposit, from which the Government will pay all costs of
transportation.--Persons sending Clothing, will pack them in as small packages
as possible, and label each package with the name of the Soldier, Regiment, and
company, to which he belongs, so there will be no mistake in delivering them.
There will be an agent appointed for each one of the above named places,
who will receive and receipt for all packages sent to their care.
George W. Baird is the authorized agent at Dallas.
It is hoped and fully believed, that the friends and relatives of the
soldiers whose bare feet are now crimsoning the stony paths of Arkansas and
Missouri, with the purest blood of patriotism, will do all in their power to
furnish them with comfortable Clothing for the approaching winter. The Government is leaving nothing undone, which is in its
power to do, for the comfort of the soldier.
Respectfully,
S. S. Jones, Clothing Agent.
October 1st, 1862.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 1, c. 4
We subjoin the following letter giving some details of the affairs at
Sabine Pass:
Four Miles From Sabine Pass, Oct. 5th, '62.
Ed. News:--I am now daily visiting a captured city.
The stars and stripes of the fanatical North now wave in full view of me.
The invaders keep close to their boats and seldom visit the shore, and
then only under a flag of truce. Two
schooners are now inside the bar. But
few people remain in the city.
A few cases of yellow fever are now reported; had it not been for this,
the Federals would have taken quarters long ago in town.
The scurvy is prevailing among troops on board the schooners. Capt. Hooper is in command of the boats.
Capt. Pennington, of the mortar boat that captured the place, was
formerly a resident of this place, and used to sail a schooner, called the
"Alliance," all along our coast.
He appears very civil to the authorities and seems to detest the cause he
is engaged in--this is the way the people of the South are treated.
Men who have received a good business start in the world are the most
active in our persecution. Let us
in the future learn a lesson and profit by the experience of the past.
But two outrages as yet have been committed by the invaders.
A house was entered by the sailors and plundered of every thing of value;
the authorities protested against it, and Capt. Pennington compelled his men to
return every thing, and apologized to the family of the house, who were absent
at the time.
On the 1st of Oct. a party of 28 men landed under a flag of truce, and
told the people they had no hostile intentions towards them, and that all
private property should be respected, &c., and inquired if they wished any
provisions, &c. On the day
following they again landed under a flag of truce, and removed a family to their
boats, who had been for a long time suspected as conveying information to them
against us. Our military
authorities were about to arrest the family.
As soon as their effects were in the launches they set fire to the depot
of the Eastern Texas R. R., and it was entirely consumed.
Remember they had landed under a flag of truce.
If this is the kind of respect they show for the white flag, we shall
never know when we are safe. A truce in one hand and a torch in the other is a new kind of
military strategy.
A few nights previous to this occurrence a party landed at Taylor's
Bayou, 10 miles above Sabine, on the lake, and fired the R. R. bridge, and took
an old man, 60 years of age, and a Capt. of a schooner, and the mail rider, with
the C. S. mail, prisoners, and carried them to their boats.
The fire was extinguished by private James Courts, of Spaight's
battalion, shortly after they left, and the bridge saved from destruction. This was a heroic act, and let us give the poor private
credit for his service.
The Federals here have said that in less than one month every port of
Texas will be in their possession. Let
our people take warning. Be
ready--act men who are determined to be free, and the haughty invaders will soon
learn that the blood of the old heroes of the Alamo and San Jacinto yet courses
in the veins of Texans.
Many of the citizens are leaving Sabine.
A few will remain and take the chances.
But I shall skedaddle as soon
as the gridiron waves over the town on
land and sea. I fear nothing
now--they fear yellow Jack more than our guerillas.
Yours for the war, SIOUX.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We understand through Mr. Grahn, late Deputy Postmaster of Galveston, that an
arrangement has been made by which letters to persons in Galveston may reach
their destination by being mailed at the post office of this city.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We are sorry to learn from our friend Robertson, of the Huntsville Item,
that the impossibility of getting paper is likely to cause the suspension of
that paper. We regret this
sincerely, for the Item has always been among the most interesting of our
exchanges, and there is not an editor in the South who has been more true to our
cause, or more bold and consistent in defending it.
But in such times as these the existence of all our journals is very
precarious.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, October 15, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Galveston Taken Possession of.
Full Proceedings.
Galveston, Oct. 9th, 5 P.M.
To the Press of Texas:
Hon. J. W. Moore, Major pro tem of Galveston, communicated to the
undersigned in substance as follows:
Wednesday evening, Oct. 8th, a meeting of citizens was held in the City
Hall for the purpose of taking into consideration the state of affairs in the
city, in consequence of the evacuation by the military, and the departure from
the city of the Mayor and a majority of the Aldermen.
The meeting appointed Mr. J. W. Moore, the oldest magistrate in the
county, Mayor pro tem for the city, and clothed him with full power over
municipal and police regulations during the present emergency.
Part of the enemy's fleet, consisting of four steamers, raised anchor at
9 o'clock A. M., Thursday morning, steamed slowly and cautiously up to the city
and took position at the foot of the principal streets, the Harriet Lane being
in position to command the street leading to the Custom House.
The fleet came to anchor about 10 A.M.
But very few people witnessed the proceedings of the fleet, and the few
present looked on sad and gloomy.
The Fire Brigade was stationed at the head of all the wharfs [sic] with
instructions to show any Federal party that might land, to the Mayor's office.
No communication took place between the fleet and City authorities up to
1 P.M. About this hour the Commander's steamer fired three shots
towards the west end of the Island, whereupon the Mayor pro tem, accompanied by
Messrs. T. M. League and Capt. Haviland, at his request, went down to the end of
St. Cyr's wharf and made signal to the fleet, which was answered, and shortly
after a boat was sent to the wharf and took the party on board the Commander's
ship. Our Mayor requested Commander
Renshaw to communicate to him his intentions in regard to the City, informing
him at the same time of the abandonment of the City by the Military,, of the
absence of the Mayor and City Council and of his appointment as Mayor pro tem by
a meeting of citizens.
Commander Renshaw replied that he had come for the purpose of taking
possession of the City; that the City was at his mercy under his guns; that he
should not interfere in the municipal affairs of the City; that the citizens
might go on and conduct their business as heretofore, that he did not intend to
occupy the City for the present, and until the arrival of a Military Commander;
but that he intended to hoist the U.S. flag upon the public buildings, and that
this flag should be respected. Whereupon
the Mayor pro tem answered that he could not guarantee to him the protection of
the flag; that he would do everything in his power, but that persons, over whom
he had no control, might take down the flag and create a difficulty.
Commander Renshaw replied that although in his previous communications
with the Military Commander he had insisted that the flag should be protected by
the city, still he thought it would be onerous upon the good citizens, and to
avoid any difficulty like that which occurred in New Orleans, he would waive
that point, and when he sent the flag ashore, he would not keep the flag flying
for more than a quarter to half an hour, sufficient to show the absolute
possession. Commander Renshaw further said that he would insist upon the
right for any of his men in charge of an officer to come on shore and walk the
streets of the city; but that he would not permit his men to come on shore
indiscriminately or in the night; that should his men insult citizens, he gave
the Mayor the right to arrest and report them to him, when he would punish them
more rigidly than we possibly could; but, on the other hand, should any of his
men be insulted or shot at in the streets of Galveston, or any of his ships or
boats be shot at from the land or wharves, he would held the city responsible
and open his broadsides on the same instantly; that his guns were kept shotted
and double shotted for that purpose; that it was the determination of his
government to hold Galveston at all hazards until the end of the war, and that
we could not take the port from him without a navy.
The Mayor pro tem, asked his intentions in relation to the railroad
bridge, the answer was at first declined, but afterwards in conversation he
stated that he did not desire the destruction of the bridge if he was not
interfered with; that he would permit the train to run up to this side of the
bridge with provisions, which must be carried from there to town in vehicles,
the train would not be permitted to run to town, and no communication whatever
should be held by water.
Commander Renshaw stated in conclusion, that he had already advised the
Admiral to send a cargo of flour, to which our party said nothing and departed.
Shortly after the return of the Mayor and party, a detachment of about
150 Marines and sailors, including about a half a dozen negroes, was sent a
shore from the fleet, which landed at Kuhn's wharf and proceeded silently to the
Custom House, on which, without any interference or demonstration by the
bystanders, raised the United States flag.
After half an hour, 3 p.m., the flag was quietly taken down and the
detachment marched back through the same streets to their boats and returned to
the fleet. The Mayor pro tem and Thos. M. League, Esq. subsequently, at
4 p.m., addressed the people at the Market, stating the substance of their
interview with the Federal Commander.
A resolution of thanks was tendered Messrs. Moore, League and Haviland,
by the meeting, for the satisfactory manner in which they conducted their
difficult task.
Galveston is very quiet and very dull.
F. FLAKE.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We see it stated that a man wanting leather to make some shoes for his
sons in the army and knowing no other way to get it, he took some hides and got
the hair off by putting them in ashes and water.
He then boiled some oak bark and put the hides in the decoction while it
was milk warm. This soon made good,
soft and pliant leather, of which he had the shoes made at once. Let this plan be tried, it will cost very little trouble.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We understand that one of our citizens, living on the Bay, and three
negroes who ran away the other day by taking a boat and going to Galveston.
The owner went for them, and was told by the Federal Commander he might
take them away with their consent, but not without. They preferred to stay, and so they are lost to the owner.
Our citizens should be careful to have all boats carefully secured, or
occurrences of this kind may happen every night.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
The
Telegraph publishes a dispatch from Virginia Point to the effect that about 50
Federals landed at this Central Wharf, in Galveston, on Tuesday, and proceeded
to the South Battery, where they raised the gridiron, and again took it down
after half an hour. They said that
Hoffman, the musician, who deserted from us, informed them that Thos. McCarty
was a conscript officer. In answer to the inquiry if it were so, McCarty said that he
was always ready to do anything for his government. The Federal officer said sharply, "Recollect, sir, you are under the U.S. Government, and not under the
Confederate Government." We
hope our readers will duly appreciate the importance of this dispatch.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p, 1, c. 1
We understand from passengers who came up from Galveston yesterday, that
as some of our citizens were leaving the city on the evening of the day before,
(the 15th) they were fired upon by the Yankee gunboats, but nobody hurt.
It appears that there were a number of families who had not been able to
leave within the four days, and they took the liberty to leave outside of the
prescribed time. The Yankees very
probably took them, at the distance of three miles, for a military force.
We understand that all families have now left that desire to leave.
We learn that there are probably now remaining in Galveston about 2000
souls, most of whom are foreign subjects.
The Yankees are said to have arrested several negroes, and put them at
work at Pelican Spit, where they are fortifying and converting our batteries to
their own use.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 4
Houston, Oct. 16, 1862, 2 P.M.
Col. Chilton who arrived by to-day's train informs us of the particulars
relative to the fight between our forces under Van Dorn and Price and the enemy
under Rosencrans and Grant. The
enemy were attacked on the 2d inst., by our forces about thirteen miles from
Corinth....
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
The Corporation at Richmond have passed a Quarantine Ordinance, by which
persons from Houston or any district infected with yellow fever are prohibited
from entering Richmond to remain longer than half an hour. Passengers on the cars are prohibited from getting out of the
cars, except under guard, and then only to remain half an hour, &c.--The
Ordinance went into effect from on the 14th inst.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We are glad to be able to state that Colonel DeBray has offered the
families of soldiers in Galveston and others needing assistance, such supplies
as may be necessary to render them comfortable if they will come within our
lines. We presume the Federals will not be disposed to throw any
obstacles in the way of their doing so, as they will thereby be relieved of a
burthen [sic]. If this be so, those
families have the chance left to them either to remain in Galveston and take
their chances with the enemy, or accept the offer made. Col. DeBray has offered them what their immediate wants
require, and free transportations to their friends in the interior.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, October 22, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Texas Iron.
Mound Prairie, Sept. 18th, 1862.
Eds.
News:--Believing that the development of the mineral resources of our State,
important at this time, when the article of iron is in such demand for our
defence [sic], I send you the following for publication:
Mr.
Billups (the proprietor of the Gun Factory) and anther gentleman, spent a few
days in search of iron ore and succeeded in finding an inexhaustible bed of it
within a few miles of this place. The
Ore is as rich as any I ever saw. Some
of it was brought here and tried. I
was present during the operation. There
was built a small temporary furnace. The
yield of metal was good, and the quality excellent.
It is as good as any I ever worked.
It works very much like Swedish Iron; becomes very hard by cooling
suddenly in water; welds very readily. I
enclose you a horse shoe nail made of it.
Capital
invested in this enterprise, in my opinion, would pay handsomely.
There is plenty of timber of the spot to furnish all the coal required,
and sufficient water to supply a steam engine to drive the machinery.
It would be at this time a patriotic enterprise to establish Iron Works
in our State, and would be of vast benefit to us, as a people, at this, and all
future time.
The Armory is nearly complete; we are almost ready to put together 100
rifles.
Respectfully,
JOHN LLEWELYN.
[The sample of Texas Iron enclosed in the above, is pronounced by good judges
here, to be of superior quality.--Ed. News]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Our
neighbor of the Telegraph makes the following remarks upon the disposition of
some property owners in this city to charge extortionate rents to the people of
Galveston who have been driven from their own homes:
We hear
of miserable shells, with no conveniences whatever, and as could not, in
ordinary times, be rented for more than $5 to $8 per month, being held at $40 or
$50. Other places are held in
somewhat the same proportion. Such
things are wrong. Their effect upon
the public morals is terrible. We
do not say that those who are guilty of them would, under other circumstances,
be guilty of highway robbery; but we do say that we would dislike to fall into
their hands without the protection of the law.
The cases we have heard of are but two or three, and we don affirm the
city cannot be judged by them. We
hope to hear of no more of them. Let
such greed be frowned down by public opinion.
We
hardly know what are called extortionate rents in this city, but we have had
occasion to ascertain the charges in many instances and we believe that most of
the small houses with all the improvements belonging to them, can be built and
paid for in ordinary times exclusive of the ground on which they are situated
for 18 to 24 months of such rent as is now asked for them.
We suppose rents have advanced largely since the people of Galveston have
recently been compelled to leave that city.
But our residence here has not been long enough to enable us to speak
positively on this subject. We can
only say that we now find it difficult to get a house at any price, and
certainly not without a considerable advance on previous rates.
But we do not know that those who demand all they can get for rent, are
any more chargeable with extortion than those who charge the highest price to be
had for the necessaries of life. The
truth is, the price of everything is regulated by the demand as compared with
the supply, and we conclude this explains the high rents at present in this
city. Even before the people of
Galveston were compelled to leave their homes, there were very few vacant houses
in Houston, and the effect of so large an accession of families seeking to find
some shelter, is easily seen. To
what extent the people of Galveston may be considered as having a claim on the
hospitality of neighboring cities on account of their present unfortunate
situation and past heavy losses, it does not become us to say. We will merely remark that this is a consideration entirely
distinct from the laws that regulate prices.
What may be a fair and reasonable price for rent or an article of
necessity is one thing, while the claims of any community on our hospitality
present a very different question. Heretofore
Houston and Galveston were considered rival cities engaged in an honorable, and
as we believe, a praiseworthy competition for the trade of the country.
That rivalry is now at an end, and if there was ever any bitterness of
feeling we hope that too is buried in oblivion.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 1, c. 1 [Summary: Great Hanging at Gainesville mania]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
In a
debate in the Confederate S. Senate on Hospitals, Mr. Semmes, of Louisiana,
showed the importance of having female nurses.
He stated that the deaths in the Clopton Hospital, Richmond, where there
are female nurses has only two per cent; in the St. Francis de Sales, presided
over by the Sisters of Charity, the mortality was 3 per. cent, while in the
hospitals presided over by men, the average mortality is 10 per cent.
Such facts would seem to be conclusive.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
For Galveston News.
What an experienced Texas Gardener and Horticulturalist has done and is
doing this fall:
Extract from a letter from T. Affleck, Esq., Glenblythe, Sept. 26th,
1862.
The long summer's drouth had so thoroughly dried the soil that no
preparations for gardening could be made until a good rain should fall.
And it was late before this neighborhood was thus favored. Then by the time the ground was manured and plowed the
surface was too dry for small seeds and we have had no good rain since.
But a fine bed of the white shallots was planted, beds of beets, turnips,
mustard, radishes and peas sowed and doing finely.
Seed beds of lettuce, cabbage and Texas Kale sown and succeeding well.
A goodly lot of cabbage planted and not doing very well.
A lot of beet roots transplanted to produce seed.
Some El Paso onions, which I received lately, were subdivided and
planted--I find in these an old acquaintance which I have not before seen in
many years, and though slightly differing from the Egyptian or ground onion, I
think I consider them quite an acquisition, and am taking pains to multiply
them. The matured bulb is large, flat and silvery white, very
solid, yet formed in a number say six to ten small bulbs crowded u p into one,
and are very sweet, crisp, and mild.
Tomato
plants were closely pruned, well worked, and brushed up like peas, and are now
large, healthy looking plants, full of young fruit.
Even should they not fully ripen before frost, they will be lifted and
suspended in the cellar where the fruit will ripen through a great part of the
winter. Okra was also pruned
closely, well plowed and hoed, and is now yielding abundance of pods.
Old collard stalks were cut nearly to the ground, manured and worked, and
now give us a nice dish of sprouts.
A small
lot of celery plants are ready to be put out, the seeds having been sown in
boxes, but must wait another rain for planting out.
Asparagus and Artichoke beds will soon be dressed and manured.
Beds planted of these and of horse radish and sweet herbs as sage, thyme,
fennel, etc., and of horehound boneset, etc.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 2, c. 1 [Summary: Account of large Houston fire, which consumed the
Presbyterian Church, among other buildings]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, October 29, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Soldier's Clothing.-- . . . We would, however, remark that all the
spinning wheels and hand looms in the country should be kept constantly employed
to supply any deficiency of clothing for our soldiers.
We believe there are several thousands of these in our State, and tens of
thousands in the South, and though each hand loom could produce but a few yards,
all of them would produce enough in a few weeks to clothe our whole army.--There
are thousands of white, as well as of negro women who know how to spin and
weave, and the raw material, both wool and cotton, is abundant.
Perhaps the work could be expedited by the organization of societies in
all our counties, for the manufacture of soldiers' clothing.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Galveston.--The enemy remains quiet, and seldom leave their ships; three
steamers are now in port.--The enemy have not disturbed any private property of
late. ... The enemy do not molest any of our citizens who have lately visited
the city for the purpose of bringing away their goods.
There is said to be a great deal of destitution in Galveston among
soldiers' families.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
We call
special attention to the advertisement for "Socks for our Soldiers,"
by Capt. Wharton, of the Quartermaster Department.
This is a subject that should interest the ladies of the country.
They can serve the country and themselves too, if they choose to exercise
a talent that most all ladies are familiar with.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We
would inform the editor of the Marshall Republican that he was misinformed, when
told that we have "any quantity" of State Penitentiary jeans in
Houston. The editor also says:
"These jeans, which the citizens are entitled to at 60 cents a yard,
are sold at $3 00. The editor was
certainly also misinformed in this. We
know of none to be had in this market, nor have we ever heard of any selling at
$3 00 a yard. All that the
Penitentiary now makes is for the troops this side of the Mississippi, and when
they are supplied, the families of Texas soldiers are next to be supplied.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Occurrences in Galveston Since the Arrival of the Federals.
Galveston, Nov. 14th, 1862.
. . . A great deal has been said outside of Galveston, as I am informed, about
the refugees who have claimed Federal protection, and their number has been
exaggerated. From the most reliable
information I can gather, not more than fifty men have ever claimed Federal
protection in Galveston, and, at present, only about thirty are under
protection, the balance having gone to New Orleans, or been sent away by the
Federals. And of what material are
these thirty men composed? Some
twenty of them are Degos, about a dozen Germans, the balance Irish, French and
original Yankees. Some of those
refugees are deserters, and none of them, the Yankees perhaps excepted, know the
difference between the Confederate and United States.
Compare these facts with the occurrences at Sabine Pass!
I am glad to see so many Galvestonians now living in Houston, at present
here on a visit. All of them will
and must corroborate what I have said, because they were eye witnesses to the
facts stated . . .
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Clothing for Our Home Troops.
Office of Sen. Ass't Q'R Master,
Houston Mil. Sub-District,
Houston, Nov. 13th, 1862.
While
our generous men and noble hearted women are exerting themselves again to supply
from their scanty store, clothing to the heroes who so admirably sustain, out of
the State, the honor and renown of Texas, let them not forget that there are
those, nearer their homes, who equally need their welcome and timely
contributions. True, these soldiers
have not been baptised [sic], as their gallant brethren abroad, in the terrible
baptism of fire and blood, but they are embattled specially to defend the
firesides of Texas, mothers, wives and daughters; and that sacred duty entitles
them to at least some portion of the aid and sympathy that the women of our land
have so freely extended to our brave men elsewhere. . . .
Our
supplies of clothing and clothing material are limited.
Our resources for others, in time, are scant.
Even with the means and the time, there are many necessary articles that
we must look to the people to make and gather up, from the raw material in their
hands. We
need these now. Winter is fast
approaching. Already our home
defenders have suffered from its premonitory severities, and are ill prepared to
meet the piercing norther and the cold, drenching rain.
They have not murmured, nor do they falter in their duty--the more
powerful reason that those they defend should promptly aid in shielding them
from the keen and merciless blast.
I
appeal to the people of this District--and I appeal specially to its women--to
assist us in this emergency. Send
upper and under clothing, shoes, socks, comforts, blankets, overcoats or
material of some kind, to make them. Articles
designed for any particular regiment, battalion, or company, if carefully put up
and properly addressed, will be sent to their destination.
What cannot be given will be paid for cheerfully.
And let me entreat them not to delay in this good work, else we shall be
left, as we now are, to the tender mercies of the hordes of extortioners, who
swarm in our land; who besiege us from sun-rise to sun-set, and whose dreams are
but of their unholy gains. Nothing
restrains these cormorants and vultures in human form; nor patriotism, nor
conscience, nor the 8th commandment--nay, not even that nightmare of Quarter
Masters and horror of editors, the Army Regulations! which, in prohibiting, in
the strictest terms, speculation, direct or indirect, in the public funds and
property, by officers in charge thereof, did not contemplate, apparently, the
possibility of citizens of this Confederacy shamelessly plundering the Treasury,
unrelentingly robbing the soldier, and treacherously sucking the lifeblood of a
nation struggling for its existence and liberties.
Leave not your soldiers in the grasp of these worse than traitors!
E. C. Wharton,
Captain and A.Q.M.C.S.A.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 19, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Houston, Nov. 14, 1862.
In Store, and to be received by the 20th inst., the following:
3880 lb Saleratus, in 1/2 & 1 lb. papers,
50 lb Chlorate of Potass,
400 do Gum of Camphor,
100 do Chloroform,
56 oz. Morphine, (Rosengarten's,)
500 do Quinine,
160 lb Carbonate of Ammonia,
56 do Iodide of Potass,
2000 gals. Turpentine,
210 bbls Rosin, No. 1,
56 lb. Sub Nitrate Bismirch,
50,000 Bottle Corks, Taper; 10 bxs Powatan Pipes,
10 bxs Olive Oil, (crop 1861)
George & Davidson.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
Mr. Mathews of Eagle Lake, Colorado county, who came passenger by Sawyer's
Accommodation Line, and who is just from Virginia ... While on the road from
Monroe to Shreveport, Mr. M. met at least 75 wagons loaded with wool from Texas,
going to Georgia, and on the same road he thinks he passed fully 500 negroes
with wagons coming into Texas. He
says the immigration into Texas is now immense, especially of negroes, who are
brought here for greater security. Mr. M. states that he found wool in great demand in Georgia,
where it is now commanding $2 50 per pound.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
Cotton Cards.--The Camden Herald, Ark. informs us that a Mr. Barber has
completed a machine in that place for making card teeth, which is probably now
in operation. The editor says
persons having old card backs can find ready sale for them there, and we suppose
they can get cards in return.
We also
notice that a comb manufactory is in operation not far from Camden.
It thus appears that our neighboring State is fast becoming independent
of the Yankees and Yankee notions.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Houston, Nov. 23, 1862.
The "Houston Dramatic Association" has again placed us under
obligations by contributing the sum of $50 for the benefit of the hospital.
For this and previous acts of considerate liberality, the members of the
association are entitled to and will please accept our thanks.
W. P. Riddell,
Surgeon General Hospital, C.S.A.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Confederate Minstrels.--We are pleased to learn through the management of this
very popular troupe, that they are preparing to open again in this city with a
series of their concerts, under a thorough reorganization, assisted by Prof.
Smith's Brass Band of organization, assisted by Prof. Smith's Brass Band of ten
performers. The concerts of this
troupe are truly chaste, refined, and artistic, and we know that the citizens of
Houston will be pleased to see them again, because they are good, and they are
assisting the needy families of our city, for they propose to give as they did
before while with us, a portion of their proceeds to the Relief Committee of
Houston, and we see by the press in western Texas, who speak most flatteringly
of them as gentlemen and artists, that their donations in San Antonio and Austin
have been most liberal. We
therefore say to all who wish to pass a pleasant evening in listening to fine
music, witty sayings, and witnessing superb burlesques, to be sure and go to
their concerts. They give their
first entertainment at Buckner's Hall, this (Tuesday) evening.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
The Fort Smith Bulletin says the Van Buren cotton factory was
accidentally destroyed by fire recently. Look
to the incendiaries.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, November 26, 1862, p. 2, c. 5
Garden Peas Wanted.
I
will pay ten dollars per bushel for large Marrowfat, Early Washington, or Blue
Imperial Peas, delivered at my store by the fifteenth of December, 1862.
All kinds of Garden Seeds bought and sold by me.
James Burke.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862, p. 1, c. 2 [Summary: Order from Holmes setting up Texas Trans-Mississippi Clothing
Bureau agents in San Antonio and Jefferson]
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862.
Aid for the Soldiers!
The ladies of Richmond, Texas, have formed a society for the benefit of
our suffering soldiers, as well for those who are guarding our homes here, as
for those who are in the army in Virginia and Tennessee.
The Fort Bend Ladies' Aid Society meets every Saturday at Herndon Hall,
Richmond.
Ladies in other counties are invited to become members, and are requested
to forward amount of initiation fee (one dollar) to either the President or
Secretary--don't know who they are, but presume they are two of the prettiest
women in Fort Bend--and to contribute such articles of clothing and blankets as
they can spare.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Galveston, 9 A.M., via Eagle Grove.
A
terrible bombardment took place last night at 8 o'clock, caused by a man going
near Kuhn's wharf and firing a shot at those on the wharf.
A brisk fire from musketry and cannon opened at once.
Shells, balls, grape and canister were thrown into the city without
mercy. None of the citizens were
hurt as far as I have been able to learn.
One man on the wharf reported killed.
Many narrow escapes of citizens; women and children ran screaming through
the streets. Bombardment lasted
half hour. A number of houses were
struck but not damaged seriously. The
Italian fruit store on market street, had three shots through it; Lemmerman's
Union House was struck.
Dennis Neil's house had two shots in it.
A house on the corner of Post Office and 24th streets was struck, and the
occupants had a narrow escape. One
shot through Tremont House; Ziekereries house on Mechanic street, Journey's shop
on Church street, and Osterman's building on Strand street.
One woman had her clothes torn off, but escaped injury.
The fleet had been expecting an attack from our forces since Saturday,
and they were hasty in being alarmed. Albert
Ball's store on Strand was riddled with grape and canister.
Cooper's old stable was struck with five shots; also the Court House.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862, p. 2, c.2
Clinton, La., Nov. 20--The principal part of the machinery, brought to
this place from the Baton Rouge Penitentiary, was destroyed by fire this morning
at 3 o'clock. It is believed to be
the work of an incendiary. The
machinery cannot be replaced; all the spindle frames, some looms and carding
machines were burnt.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Fresh Garden and Flower Seeds, From New York, by the way of Matamoras.
Just
received as above, a general assortment of Garden and Flower Seeds, growth of
1862. My assortment of seeds is now
complete. I intend to continue my
efforts to keep up my stock in this department. No time should be lost in securing seeds for the approaching
season.
James Burke, Houston.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 3, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
Wants of the Texas Troops.
LaGrange, Nov. 24th, 1862.
Eds. News:--A citizen of this county has just returned from our army in
Arkansas, and the news that he brings is bad enough, not that our army has been
whipped, but that our army is naked and shoeless, and from the fact that they
are without clothing and in a colder climate than our own, there is much
sickness and many deaths. Texas
will lose more men this winter for want of good warm clothing than she has lost
in every battle since this war commenced.--The cry is coming from every part of
the State, clothing for the army! but the people have not got it, and
notwithstanding the abundance of cotton and wool, they cannot supply it for the
want of cotton cards.--Now, sirs, the question is, who is to blame?
I answer emphatically Gov. Lubbock.
The penitentiary, which belongs to the people of Texas and over which the
Governor has complete control as long as he is Governor, makes annually
1,500,000 yards of cloth, running ordinary time, which, if all appropriated in
the right way, would amply clothe fifty thousand men. But, sirs, what are the facts?
We have not got fifty thousand men in the field, and probably not fifteen
thousand are clothes from that institution, the balance must either go naked and
die of cold, or their friends must furnish them.-- . . . Fayette.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 10, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We learn from planters from the Caney that in the attack made upon the Yankees
while destroying Mr. Winston's salt works near the mouth of the Bernard, one of
our men was slightly wounded in the foot, and also that one of the Yankees was
captured having received a wound, (probably fatal) before he could get to the
boat.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 10, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We would be thankful for any information that our friends in the country
will furnish us in relation to tanneries in Texas and what efforts are being
made for a supply of leather--also in regard to domestic manufactures, such as
shoemaking, spinning and weaving by the old fashioned spinning wheels and hand
looms, for we do not suppose our present wants can be supplied by the limited
machinery now in Texas. Our
information is to the effect that we shall not suffer for provisions in this
State, for although the army in Arkansas has taken nearly all the flour that can
be spared from the wheat counties, yet we have certainly enough of corn in other
parts of the State, although the counties in the vicinity of Houston have been
pretty well drained to support our cavalry, which has been an expensive arm of
the service. But our pressing wants
now are articles of clothing both for our troops and for their families, and
every householder in Texas ought to feel it a sacred duty to be doing something
towards supplying these wants; and we would be glad to be able to report all
that is being done in that way. It
is now a subject of the deepest interest to us all.
It will be a great encouragement to our suffering soldiers to learn that
every effort is being made to provide them comfortably.--With such an assurance
they will be inspired with redoubled energy to do and to suffer to the last in
the cause of their country.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Affairs in Galveston
Tuesday, Dec. 2--At near 8 o'clock in the evening of the
1st inst., firing was heard at Kuhn's wharf; first from small arms, then the
guns of the Clifton and Owasso, which continued for about half an hour, during
which time there were fired from fifty to seventy-five musket or rifle shots,
and ten to twelve shots from the steamers' guns.--The whistling of the balls,
bursting of shells, and their striking houses, principally in the middle portion
of the town, towards the Bay, caused women, with their children, to seek at that
time of night an imaginary shelter away from their houses, even to the prairie.
Upon examination, I ascertained that there was one bomb-shell passed
through Mr. Marshall's house on the Strand, (within three squares of the
Hospital,) a grapeshot struck Mr. T. H. McMahan's house, in the third ward, and
some went to the south of Broadway.
At the
first firing from the Clifton a shell struck and bursted in the stone wall east
of Kuhn's wharf. After that they fired at random, elevating their guns so that
the balls or canisters passed over the houses near the Strand and fell in the
city without regard to directions or locality.
The propeller Owasso lying at foot of Tremont street, fired three or four
shots in the same manner. Several
houses had balls to pass entirely through them, while others had the indentures
or were pierced by them and lodged within.
Balls, bullets, and fragments of shells have been picked up in every
direction. One shell which did not
explode was found to contain, besides powder and fine sulphur, no less than 175
Minie and round balls. In the wide
range they took to harm us, providentially there was not a single person struck
or hurt.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 10, 1862, p. 2, c. 6
75,000 lbs salt, Speers' and other Plows,
12 bxs Powhatan Pipes,
10 bxs Condensed Milk,
50 bks Ketchups and Sauces,
Demijohns and Kegs, Spices, Varnish, Sundries, Hardware, and various other
articles, for sale by
A. Whitaker & Co.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 17, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
The Gentler but More Heroic Sex.
The sphere of woman's action in our midst has been greatly enlarged since
the commencement of our struggle, and her true worth and beauty of character are
only displayed in the hour of peril and adversity.
A new avenue has been opened for her sympathies, while courage and
firmness were never more preeminently exhibited than are now shown by the ladies
throughout the South in the moral support given by them to our cause, and the
material aid extended by their handiwork. It
is the most fruitful source of their happiness to lend the hand of charity to
our suffering soldiers and to alleviate the pressure of want upon their
families. Man has now rivals every
where among this noble sex in every phase of life and its attendant suffering;
and it would be difficult to name any department of the social economy which is
not honored by their heroic presence and supported by their daring energy.
In this connection we may be permitted to mention that a friend from the
Colorado has sent us a specimen of Linsey woolsey, manufactured by Mrs. J. S.
Montgomery, near Eagle Lake, the woof of cotton and the filling of wool, black
and white mixed, making a most beautiful and substantial cloth, thick and wide,
equal to the best Kentucky manufacture, and fit for the uniform of a Major
General.
Mrs. M. in her patriotic desire to aid the struggle in which the South is
engaged, is busily employed with some of her negro women in spinning and
weaving, and will send garments made of this material, besides underclothes and
socks, to her numerous relatives and friends in the army.
If all the wives of planters, who have the labor thus to bestow, would
imitate her example, our noble soldiers would not feel so keenly the wintry
blasts and inclement weather now upon them; and these ladies should, and
doubtless do, consider themselves amply repaid by the service they are called
upon to render in defence [sic] of their liberties, their homes and their
property.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 17, 1862, p. 1, c. 3
We have received a package containing sundry useful articles for our
troops, labeled: "The Widow's
Mite for the Relief of our Soldiers!"
Since the above was written, we have received from Miss J. D. the
articles named in the following note, and will dispose of them as directed:
Houston, Dec. 10th, 1862.
Ed. News:--In response to Col. Cook's call, some time since, for lint and
bandages, I herewith send one pound of the former, one hundred and eighty-two
yards of the latter, from one to three inches in width, and old linen for
compresses, &c. Also six carpet
blankets, ten Merino scarfs [sic], four pairs woolen socks, three worsted
shirts, two undershirts, four pairs drawers.
Please send the blankets and clothing to soldiers that you may know are
most in need of them, and oblige, very respectfully
Miss J. D.
We
have the pleasure to make the following report since our appeal in behalf of our
suffering soldiers, many of whom are without covering:
From Mr. C. W. L. 1 carpet; Mrs. F. W. Gray, 1 carpet; Mrs. Dr. Cone, 3
carpet blankets; Mrs. J. F. Cruger, 3 blankets; Mrs. W. J. Hutchins, 2 carpets
and 3 blankets; Mrs. M. A. Dumble, 1 carpet; Capt. Chas. Gearing, a lot of
blankets from off the steamboats.|
The disposition made of the above is as follows:
Comp. B, Galv. Artillery, Capt. Weir, 27 blankets; Capt. Lecbults (sp?) 4
blankets; Sibley's Brigade, Col. Reiley commanding, 21 blankets.
We will have all carpets, sent in for the soldiers made up free of
expense to the donors.
C. S. Longcope.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 17, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
We understand that the ladies of Galveston, in this city, are going to
give a second concert next Friday night in Perkins' Hall, for the benefit of our
soldiers, on which occasion they will be assisted by the Houston ladies.
The eminent success of the last concert is highly encouraging, and we
trust, next Friday evening, Perkins' Hall may be equally well filled.
By the way, we should notice the fact that Mr. Perkins gives his Hall
gratuitously, as he has done on so many other occasions, in behalf of our
soldiers. By putting a reasonable
estimate on the value of this truly splendid Hall, it will readily be seen that
Mr. Perkins has been among the very largest benefactors to the soldiers.
It having now been ascertained that the troops on the Potomac and in the
West have been pretty well provided for, we learn that the proceeds of the next
concert will be applied to the purchase of clothing for our troops in Arkansas
under General Holmes. The Telegraph
learns that Col. John R. Baylor and his brother, Lieut. Col. Geo. C. Baylor,
late of Gen. Sydney Johnson's staff, both of whom are now in this city, will
contribute their assistance in the concert.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 17, 1862, p. 2, c. 3
The roads leading from Louisiana to Eastern Texas are said to be still
filled with wagons coming into Texas. These
wagons belong to refugees from Louisiana, who are bringing with them their
families and negroes and all the effects they have left.
As many as 50 or 60 wagons are often seen in a train.
Many of the Louisiana planters were compelled to leave their crops in the
field, in their haste to save their families.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 17, 1862, p. 2, c. 4
Tobacco Seed.
Virginia,
Havana, and Creole. December and
January are the months for sowing Tobacco Seed. Put up in small papers of fifty cents, one dollar, and two
dollars. Sent by mail free of
postage.
James Burke.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 24, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We have been shown at Morse's drug store ten pair excellent woolen socks knit by
the hands of Mrs. Rawley, for the soldiers of Capt. Martin's company--also a
large and beautiful bed spread of cotton yarn knitted with two needles, all the
handiwork of Mrs. R. With such
ladies in our midst our soldiers need not want for clothing to keep out the
chilly blasts of winter while fighting their country's battles; and we trust all
who can will follow the example of Mrs. R. and other patriotic ladies.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 24, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
Willow Springs, Milam Co., Texas,
December 15th, 1862.
Ed. News:--The enclosed sum (thirty dollars) is sent in response to the appeal,
for "Dr. Bryan's Hospital." Please
put it in the right hands to reach its destination, and acknowledge its
reception in your paper. Mrs. M. C.
Allen, $20; Dr. R. McColloch, $10
Yours respectfully,
M. C. Allen.
The above amount has been handed E. H. Cushing, Esq., Acting Treasurer
for the Fund.
The
undersigned tenders to the respective donors his acknowledgements for the sum of
$415, being an amount collected on the evening of a wedding, held at the
residence of G. Gerson, Esq.
Received this amount, $415, at the hands of the Committee, G. Gerson and
Chas. Raas. "He that giveth to the poor enriches himself."
C. S. Loncope,
Dec. 17, 1862.
Treasurer Relief Fund.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 24, 1862, p. 1, c. 2
Editor of the News:--In your issue of the 10th inst., I notice a call by
you for "information in relation to tanneries in Texas and what efforts are
being made for a supply of leather--also in regard to domestic manufactures,
such as shoemaking, spinning and weaving by the old fashioned spinning wheels
and hand looms."
I can answer for Washington and a considerable portion of the adjoining
counties. There are very many efforts on a small scale to tan leather;
most of which experiments were made too late in the season to procure sufficient
bark; hence they have not succeeded in producing leather to any extent worth
naming. They have got their
bristles up, however, and they will come it next year.
Most of the leather from which shoes are made in this section, is brought
from the quite numerous tanneries in the eastern and northwestern counties.
There are also three or four tanneries in Fayette county, burning off
considerable supplies of leather for the neighborhoods in which they are
situated. We have plenty of
shoemakers amongst us to meet the demand if we had the material to work upon.
As to "spinning and weaving by the old fashioned spinning wheel and
hand loom," there is a general movement in that direction everywhere.
Looms and wheels are being made by the thousands, and every family who
have been so fortunate as to procure cards, are manufacturing quantities of the
most excellent cloth. But the scarcity and ruinous high prices of the cards
operates with many poor families, as a sufficient barrier to prevent them from
doing anything at all towards clothing themselves, even. Certainly the card speculators are striving to force the
community back into the use of the primitive fig leaf apron again.
It is not worth while to say anything about what the managers of the
State government might have done to aid the people in procuring cards.
They be d----d, but if the people had the cards, I am sure I tell the
truth, when I assert that the whole country would be instantly converted into
one grand efficient manufacturing establishment.
And from the thousands of buzzing wheels and clattering looms, propelled
by willing hands and loving hearts; the ready made clothing and substantial
blankets would flow to our armies, as free as water. There are few soldiers in the service, who have not a female
relative or friend at home, who would take delight in having the opportunity to
clothe him during the war. I know
of what I speak, and the drawback to all this, is intentionally produced by a
black hearted set of enemies to our cause.
THINE GID.
We add the following although headed private.
With my own hands I have finished a month ago and they are now in successful
operation, what my neighbors pronounce a very neat set of spinning wheels, reel,
loom, warping mill, 40 spools, 2 reels or sleys, shuttles, &c., all the
outfit and preparation for making various kinds of cloth.
I am now engaged in making a chemical analysis with the coloring matter
obtained from our forests. The
ladies are delighted with my experiments.
GIDEON.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 24, 1862, p 2, c. 1
Editor News:--In your notice, last issue, of the Tableaux given on Friday
night, your estimate of the number present is so very far in excess of the
capacity of the Hall, that it should be corrected in justice to the ladies
managing and the public--for 1500 persons present, and hundreds going away who
could not get in, some of whom it is probably had bought tickets, would lead to
the expectation of the receipts being, at two dollars per ticket, $3,000 to
$4,000.--The hall can accommodate with seats, in round numbers, only 800, and
allowing liberally for the number who stood, probably 900 persons were present,
certainly not many more.
J.S.
[In explanation of our error we would not state that the estimate was given us
based on the capacity of the entire hall, and without allowing for the large
portion of it taken up by the stage and scenery.--Ed. News.]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We learn that at a concert in Harrisburg on Wednesday night for the benefit of
Dr. Bryan's Hospital, the net receipts amounted to $250. Considering the number of inhabitants in our neighboring
town, this shows that in patriotism they are entitled to rank among the
foremost.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 1, c. 1
We are gratified to see that collections are now being made for Col. DeBray's
Hospital at Harrisburg. From
present indications this hospital may soon be needed for the wounded, as well as
for the sick. While we are doing
all we can for similar institutions abroad, we should bear in mind that our
charities may also be needed nearer home.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
Houston, Dec. 22, 1862.
W. Richardson, Esq.
Dear Sir:--You will receive per bearer the following articles for the use
of the Company commanded by Captain Van McMahan:
18 carpet blankets, 1 comfort, 3 coats, old.
These have (like unto the others) been sent to me for the purpose of
distribution. The women (God bless
them) are daily responding, and the call of "Who next?" is being
cheerfully and liberally responded to.
Yours respectfully,
C. S. Longcope.
By-the-by, Mr. R., permit me to say that the Brussels carpet can be
softened and made to answer almost as well as the tapestry carpeting for
blankets.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
San Marcos, Texas, Dec. 15, 1862.
Ed. News:--Enclosed please find one hundred dollars, which I send as a
contribution for the benefit of our soldiers, which you will please dispose of
as follows:
Fifty dollars for Dr. Bryan's Hospital, located at Quitman, Mississippi.
Fifty dollars for the use of Terry's Regiment of Texas Rangers.
Very respectfully,
O. P. Bowles.
[We have handed the above to E. H. Cushing, Esq., Acting Treasurer of the
above funds.]
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
It will be seen that our patriotic fellow citizen, Mr. Longcope,
advertises corn for the families of our soldiers at one dollar per bushel, on
behalf of the Relief Committees of Galveston and Houston.
This price is less than half the present wholesale price in this market.
GALVESTON
WEEKLY NEWS, December 31, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Cotton Cards.--The Augusta Chronicle, Ga. says Messrs. Lee & Co. have
manufactured a box of cotton cards which are a perfect model of Whitmore's,
having been made on a Whitmore machine brought from Baltimore.
They are sold at $10 a pair. It
is said Messrs. Lee & Co., desire to take contracts to supply States, and
surely our State ought not to lose such an opportunity to provide our people
with an article of the greatest necessity.
It said those cards formerly sold for 15 cents a piece at wholesale and
can be supplied to the State at $300 [$3.00?] per pair at present.
The State might be saved millions of dollars in the supply of clothing to
our troops, by having our people supplied with the cards to make the clothing
instead of having to pay the present enormous prices.