April 1861

Circular to the Wisconsin Volunteers 1861

Read about the beginning of the effort to save the story of the war
by the State Historical Society

The Second and Third Wisconsin Regiments ordered to Washington
Gov. Randall received the following dispatch by telegraph this morning:
Washington, April 3d, 1861

Gov. Randall:-Send  this place immediately by rail your three years regiments.
Report when they can come.
SIMON CAMERON,
Secretary of war.

The call is for the Second and Third regiments. The Second will probably be ready in three or four days; the Third cannot possibly be put in readiness without considerably more delay.

Latest News

By Telegraph to the Patriot

WAR NEWS

LATE AND IMPORTANT FROM CHARLESTON!

Surrender of Ft. Sumter

BLOOD SHED!

Charleston, April 12-
The Ball has opened.

How the President received the War News, &c.

New York, 13- The President received the war news calmly and with a confident feeling that he had done his duty in the matter.
Senator Sherman arrived from Ohio and reports the Republicans there ready to stand by to the last. The opinion prevails that an attempt will be made before sunrise to run the light draft vessels of the fleet up to Sumter to reinforce and provision it.
Washington Tribune dispatch says Capt. Fox commands the vessel with provisions which is to lead the expedition into Charleston.

Surrender Demanded

President's Proclamation

Washington, April 14-

"Whereas, laws of the United states have been and now are opposed in several States by
combinations too powerful to be suppressed in the ordinary way, I therefore call forth the Militia of the several States of the Union, to the aggregate No. of 75,000 men, to suppress said combination and execute the laws.
I appeal to all loyal citizens to facilitate and aid this effort to maintain the laws, the integrity of the National union, and the perpetuity of the popular government; and redress wrongs long enough endured.
The first service assigned forces will probably be to repossess forts, places and property which have been seized from the Union.
The utmost care will be taken consistent with the object, against the devastation, destruction or interference with property of peaceable citizens in any part of the country and I hereby command persons composing the aforesaid combination to disperse within twenty days.
I hereby convene both Houses of Congress for the 4th of July next to determine upon measures of public safety, as the occasion demands .

(Signed)

ABRAHAM LINCOLN

President
By Wm. H. Seward, Sec'y of State.

Weekly Patriot
Madison, April 20, 1861

State of Wisconsin
Proclamation To the Loyal Citizens of Wisconsin:

L.P. Harvey, Sec'y of State.

ANOTHER PROCLAMATION OF GOV. RANDALL!

MADISON, April 23 -- The following proclamation was issued by the Governor this morning: To the patriotic people of Wisconsin: -- In six days from the issue of my proclamation of the 16th inst., the first regiment called for by the president of the United States, for the defense of the Union, is enrolled and ready for service. Four companies from Milwaukee, one from Janesville, two from Madison, one from Horicon, and one from Beloit are assigned to the first regiment, while nineteen more companies have tendered their services.
It is to be regretted that Wisconsin is not permitted to increase largely her quota, but her loyal citizens must exercise patience till called for.
I urge the formation of Companies of able-bodied men, to the number of seventy seven, in every locality where it can be done without expense for subsistence of men who pledge themselves to be minute men, standing ready at short notice to answer to calls from the Government. When such companies are full, if infantry of riflemen, let them elect a captain, lieutenant and ensign and report to the Adjutant General for commissions and orders. It is necessary that men be taken from their peaceful vocations to be drilled for actual service.
Though when companies are located in large towns it is desirable that they be drilled as far as possible in the use of arms, whenever companies are called into service all their expenses will be paid. Wherever companies have been enrolled and have reported offering their services, they will be first
called upon whenever a new demand is made upon the State by the President, which is likely to be very soon. I thank the good people of the State for their ready response to my proclamation, and for their patriotic devotion to country.

(Signed) Alex. RANDALL

The first proclamation of Governor Randall was as potent in bringing warriors to the field as was the whistle of Rhoderick Dhu in olden times-
"That whistle garrisoned the glen
At once with full five hundred men."
The proclamation instead of hundreds brought up thousands. .
Wisconsin Adjutant General's report, 1861

Weekly Patriot
Madison, April 27, 1861

State Troops

Weekly Patriot
Madison, April 27, 1861

To Arms! To Arms!!

To Arms! To Arms!!

April 27, 1861
New York Sun

There is a Providence which shapes our ends

VOLUNTEER'S OUTFIT. -- Adjutant Gen. Utly addressed the following communication to Quartermaster Gen. Tredway . . .
"It is the direction of the Commander-in-Chief, after some consideration, that the following outfit be allowed to each soldier in the Wisconsin active Militia: 1 cap, 1 eagle and ring, 2 flannel shirts, 2 pair of stockings, 1 tin or rubber canteen, 1 pompon, 1 coat, 2 pair of flannel drawers, 1 leather stock, 1 haversack, 1 cap cover, 1 pair trousers, 1 pair boot's or shoes, 1 great coat, 1 knapsack. It is not deemed advisable to purchase at this time any further articles of outfitting such as rubber blankets, ponchos, &c. not until such time as the troops are called into actual service. Other articles, axes, saws, spades, and camp equipage, generally, will be hereafter considered."
Chilton, Wis., Times, Saturday, April 27, 1861

Weekly Patriot
April 27, 1861

Progress of the Rebellion!!!!!!!

Milwaukee Sentinel, Apr.27,’61

A SOLDIER'S KIT - At this time, when so many are preparing for the wars, a memorandum of the things necessary to take along as baggage will not be unacceptable. An old soldier contributes the desired catalogue as follows:

"Two flannel shirts, red preferable; 2 stout hickory shirts; 2 fine shirts, if you can take them along; 4 pairs of woolen socks; 2 pair of drawers, white cotton or wool, indispensable; 2 pair stout and easy boots, if you can take a second pair; 2 towels, indispensable; 1 piece soap; 1 fine and one coarse comb; 1 tooth-brush; 1 butcher knife, (a good place for this is in the boot); 1 quart tin cup; 1 button stick; 1 vial of sweet oil; 1 piece rotten stone; 1 piece chalk; 1 button-brush, (nail brush will do); 1 flannel housewife for and full of needles - throw in a few pins while you're about it; 1 pair small scissors; strong black and white threads in tidy skeins; 1 blacking brush, if you can take it; 1 box blacking. Learn to pack your knapsack tidily, closely and conveniently for use.

To the above you can add all the grub you can stow away, inside and out, and replenish when you can, without waiting for the stock on hand to be exhausted.

Weekly Patriot
Madison, April 1861

Satisfactory-The appointment of L. Park Coon, of Milwaukee, as Col. of the 2d Regiment is well received. the Col. is a gentlemen who has had a military training and possesses the qualities of heart and mind necessary to make a popular and effective commanding officer.

Greatest natural phenomenon

A sharp young gentleman in a drug store near the Capitol House sends us the following good one.
Why is the 2d Regiment of Wisconsin Active Militia the greatest phenomenon of the age?
Because it is composed of Badgers led by a Coon.

Weekly Patriot
Madison, April 27, 1861

Anatomists say that a man changes every seven years. Therefore, says Jones, my tailor should not remind me of the bill I contracted in 1854-
I ain't the same man!

Washington D. C.,
April 30, 1861
Friend Bartlett:
I will endeavor to gratify you with a brief description of the doings here for the past week or so of course I will not tell you all for I cannot and need not as the telegraph performs that labor as to important events as they transpire.
When you left the Capitol all was quiet - unusually so when we consider that here all classes and sections meet and that there must, of necessity, be considerable political wrangling going on all the time. I confess to a little disappointment in this respect. I have found this city as quiet and orderly as any I was ever in. It might be expected that after the fall of Fort Sumter there would have been a change in this respect but there was none visible save that the secessionists were a little more bold and open in the expression of their opinions.
The fall of Sumter threw a gloom over the minds of the friends of freedom here. The blow was such and the Government had failed to give us any evidence that it had the energy and vigor necessary to deal with open high handed rebellion. It appeared as imbecile as its predecessor.
The time had come to act. Volunteers within the District were enrolled the proclamation was issued, Virginia was seceding, Ben McCullock was at Richmond and Washington was in eminent danger.

It still an easy prey to be captured by a band of desperadoes, if any were found bold enough to strike the blow. It was truly a gloomily hour men consulted anxiously, timid ones left for home as fast as railroad could carry them. What was to be done? Whatever was to be done must be done well and quickly for the danger was imminent. There was an organized band of 1000 secessionists in the City. The Departments were full of open sympathies for the South. There were large numbers more who would go with Virginia and Maryland, even the volunteers enrolling for the defense of the District and for their $20 per month and rations were not to be trusted. Some, of course, were true but a large number would have faltered when brought to the test. Their conversation and their associations caused them to be suspected.
Well might the friends of the Government feel gloomy! There were many strangers here on business from different parts of the Union. Nightly meetings were held in Old Trinity Church and the regular Abolitionists were ventilating themselves freely.

What shall we do? was being asked. One or two attempts were tried to form the strangers into a company but they did not succeed. At this critical hour when Washington was in danger of attack from with out and within that noble and gallant spirit Col. Cassius M. Clay tendered his services to the President for the defense of the Capitol.

He was at once commissioned to organize a company of picked men upon whom he could rely and to act in concert with Marshall Lamon as a special police - Gen. King, of the Mil. Sentinel, was here. He selected 20 reliable men from Wisconsin and tendered them to Clay.

Others from other States did like wise. There were 150 assembled thus the first night and the number soon reached 300. We were drilled and organized into scouting parties and put out on duty at once. Our quarters were at the Willard House Concert Room - which was formerly a church. At the head of the room was a platform on which was a sofa - there was Clay, sometimes some times asleep and sometimes superintending the movements of his men or in counsel with his Lieutenants. The platform in front was covered with a compound of men and rifles in a recumbent posture. The setters around the room at times were likewise occupied. We were not allowed to sleep long undisturbed. Alarms or the noise and bustle of scouting; armies coming and going kept us in a wakeful condition - When too much inclined to slumber a call to the ranks would be heard from our vigilant commander.

The order would be given to see that your pieces were loaded and that you were supplied with 10 rounds a piece for there was a prospect of fun ahead.
One night a part of us were detail to stand at the White House. It fell to my lot in company with Bryan of the Appleton Motor to watch the Southern front.

Little did I think one year ago however that our country would require my services thus or that I should enjoy the high honor and distinction of standing guard over the President of the United States not as a hireling soldier but as a lover of my country who was glad to be able to obey that county's call and render my services without pay or reward, except the consciousness of doing my duty.
At another time we were ordered to spend the night at the Navy Yard with a similar company under the command of Col. Jim Lane, of Kansas notoriety. Of course we did so and as you may well expect enjoyed ourselves hugely.

It was indeed highly amusing to see Senators and members of Congress and others of high standing in society crawling up on coils of rope and among cordage or boxes, endeavoring to rest and sleep. In this manner we have passed eight nights, on guard and under arms waiting and watching for traitors. We have watched in vain. They did not come; I think they dared not.

The name of Clay and Lane carried terror. The fact of their having gathered a band of reliable men around them was enough. Our numbers remained unknown and it was supposed that we were at least one thousand strong. Of course Clay and Lane would fight and those who formed in companies under them would be true to their leaders and follow where ever they led. Such being the case it was not desirable to meet us; we were given a wide berth. We were called pirates, border ruffians and every other epithet that could be thought of. It was well it should be so. The Secessionists took the hint and fearing arrest and punishment, their most prominent men took leave. Good riddance to Washington.
All were rejoiced to see them go, for their company was not so desirable as their absence.

Shortly after our organization a few Pennsylvanians, and the Massachusetts men who fought their way through Baltimore, arrived. These, with a few U.S. soldiers here, in all say 1,500 men, took charge of the public buildings leaving the active scouting duty for us.

We kept our selves active until the arrival of the famous New York Seventh Regiment. This made us feel more easy, especially as we knew that more troops were on their way. The critical hour was passed, the Capitol was in a measure safe. The volunteers, of course, had done their duty in guarding bridges and could full reliance have been placed in them, there would have been no danger.

Our gallant Clay feeling that he had done his duty resigned his command being obliged to sail at once for Europe. His second in command, Gen. Nye, was now our leader. The parting with Clay was an interesting scene. He made a brief speech thanking us for the readiness with which we obeyed his every command.

The evening was spent in speaking. Gov. Nye, Denio, of Galena, Vinton, who is now a captain, Ex.-Speaker Littlejohn of New York, Galusha A. Grow, and others make glowing speeches. All were for fight and all were sternly opposed to compromising in the least. The South had appealed to the sword, and now there was nothing but death to the traitors and the Constitution as it is for the masses.

On Sunday we had divine service by our chaplain. Every thing was conducted in true military style. The pulpit was surrounded by stacks of muskets on which were hung the cartridge boxes and other accoutrements. The stand was covered with the "Stars and Stripes" and others were hung in other
parts of the hall. We had a good sermon and our services were closed by the entire congregation singing the Star Spangled Banner. It was well sung and effect was electric.

In the afternoon the two companies, Clay's and Lane's, went to the Capitol and called upon the New York and Massachusetts boys quartered there. We were handsomely received. The New York 7th is in the Representatives Hall and the Massachusetts boys, who tasted blood at Baltimore, are in the Senate Chamber; the Capitol is used for barracks. While in the Senate Chamber, Lane and Vaughan, of Kansas, made some stirring speeches and were followed by Mrs. Edward Daniels of Wisconsin who sung in a most beautiful manner our glorious National Anthem - the Star Spangled Banner. The audience joined into the chorus and many hearts swelled under the impulses of the moment.

After leaving the Capitol, we went to the Patent Office and called on Gov. Sprague's Rhode Island boys. They paid us the compliment to come over and drill, and sent their fine band of music to escort us home. Gov. Sprague and Rhode Island have done themselves and that state credit by sending this regiment. They look like picked men, so uniform are they in size and so stalwart in appearance. Their uniform is dark gray pants, dark blue frocks and black felt hats, with a red blanket for field service in cold or wet weather. These men will make terrible work with the Southerners if ever the get a pop at them. That can be relied on.

Troops are constantly arriving. There must be at least 12,000 Northern men and U.S. troops here, besides 4,000 to 5,000 volunteers from the District of Columbia.

There being no longer any particular duty for the Clay Guards, unless it by to go through Baltimore ,
the Company will disband. Commodore Paulding, it is reported, told Col. Clay that he saved the Capitol. This is pretty generally conceded by those high in authority and long will the Clay Guards and the Frontier Guards under Col. Lane, be remembered by those who knew the danger Washington was in between the 18th and 25th days of April, 1861.

O'Brien is here and has done his duty like a man, he has advanced to the post of orderly sergeant in the Clay Guards. We are quietly waiting now for Jeff. Davis, on the one side and Billy Wilson on the other, the latter is going through Baltimore with his rowdy regiment.

Of course war brings many horrors in its train. It is creating great activity here, dray men and teamsters are busy. Throughout the North the preparation for war will and must give great life and activity. This added to the scarcity of labor caused by drawing on the surplus to play soldiers will make labor high. Again, it is developing the character and resources of the people. Our armies as they move show themselves capable of sailing, repairing engines and railroads, laying track and building bridges. Nothing can daunt or stop the Northern soldier. He is at home wherever you place him, whether in the field or work shop, or in the parlor or Senate Chamber, it is all the same to him.

The great contest between freedom and slavery is fairly commenced. Traitors have appealed to the sword, and have essayed to strike down the fairest government on earth. The North, thank God, is a unit, and men and money will not be wanting. There is a sublimity and a grandeur in the unanimity of the North in the support of our Government that makes my heart glad, and fills me with joy. Though this contest will cost millions of money and thousands of lives, it is well that it has come. The result will be the humiliation of the slave power, if not its extinction; the reification of Patriotism and a love of country and its glorious Star Spangled banner, which will serve to strengthen our government, and perpetuate our institutions of Freedom, and transmit them to posterity unimpaired. We have been loving and power , - we have been growing rich, luxurious and effeminate, we will hereafter love our country better, and appreciate more highly than ever the blessings of liberty we enjoy.

May 1861

Juvenile Camp. - Yesterday a company of boys established a camp on the corner of Van Buren an Wisconsin Streets. They put up a tent and unfurled the Stars and Stripes, and when we passed that way, a couple of tender sentinels were marching up and down with wooden guns on their shoulders.

W. E. Tunis & Co. have the best assortment of 'Union Envelopes' in the city. Also, the 'Star Spangled Banner' note paper, and any quantity of 'Union Rosettes' are now on hand, and will be sold cheap.

An Army of Letter-Writers. - There has probably never been a war in the world which will be so perfectly, so minutely reported, from the smallest detail up to the grandest strategic movement, as the one in which we are engaged. Every Company has its two or three letter-writers, and with every regiment go a corps of newspaper correspondents. Hitherto, all such accounts have been bald, bare or garbled and distorted by prejudice. Now with every man's heart beating high to the music of the Union, and trained in letter-writing, we may expect to see all the brilliant episode of the field reproduced in vivid colors on paper, and afforded splendid materials to some American MacCaulay, and a whole army of romances and novelists.
Milwaukee Sentinel, May 6, 1861

MILITIA-STATE OF WISCONSIN ADJUTANT GENERAL'S OFFICE Madison, May 2, 1861 To Captains of Companies, Wisconsin Active Militia:- All companies ordered into camp are expected to appear at camp with full ranks; and no Company will hereafter be received in camp or quartered at the State's expense unless it has the full complement of officers and men
By order of the Commander in Chief. WM. L. UTLEY, Adjutant General.

Milwaukee Sentinel, May 10’ 61

Punsters at the Play
On Wednesday Evening - the occasion of Mr. Sharp’s benefit at Albany Hall, a number of "conundrums" were read in accordance with the programme, which stated that the author of the best conundrum on the Union would be presented with a silver cup. Immediately after the representation of the first piece, Mr. Sharp came before the curtain with the cup, and read the following dreadful affairs:

1. Why is the Union like a quince?

Because it must be preserved! (Oh!)

2. Why is it that the Seceeders refused to adopt our National Banner for their ensign?

Because, like naughty boys, in getting the stripes they would have seen stars!

3. Why is DeGroat & Ryan’s Company like the Southern Confederacy?

Because seven of them seceded.

4. Why is Lincoln like a poor horse?

Because he shows backbone! (This was received with roars of laughter as may be imagined)

5. Why will the Southern planters, instead of tilling their plantations, turn to a new vocation?

Because, while they choose to secede (see seed), they will have plenty of grape to make them whine (wine).

6. Why is the American Flag like the colors of the rainbow?

Because, though these colors may fade, a whole legion of traitors cannot make them run.

7. Why will the Union pass safely through the crisis? Because the Stars and Stripes are never to be trampled upon by traitors. (My!)

8. What is the difference between Lincoln before and after the Union was dissolved? (!!)

Before the Union was dissolved, he split rails, and after, he railed at the split. (Written by a relation of Jeff Davis evidently)

9. Why will the winner of the cup tonight be like a man undergoing a severe course of medical treatment?

Because he will be sold coming in, and cupped going out.

10. Why will our flag outlive all others?

Because the rose will whither, the shamrock will droop, the thistle will die and the palmetto decay, but the stars must shine forever.

It was decided that the number 10 was the best conundrum and the author was requested to come forward and receive the cup, but no one came forward, it was left in the box office to be claimed to-day.

Military Items.
May 11, 1861
Under Pay- The Companies enrolled in the 1st and 2d Regiments are under pay from the State. Some supposed that they would not get any pay until called into the service of the United States, but we are glad to learn from an official source that until that time they receive pay from the State.
This is only just and right

May 11, 1861
A general order has been issued, constituting the 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th Regiments a brigade, and appointing Rufus King, Brigadier General.

May11, 1861
Edwin Wadsworth, of Rock County, has been commissioned as Commissary of the 2d Regiment with rank of lieutenant

May11, 1861
Military Items-The State has purchased from James Catlin, of Burlington Woolen Factory, 1,531 1/2 yards Grey cloth and 50 yards cadet cloth.

May 11, 1861
E. D. Smith, Menasha Pail Factory, offers to furnish Camp Randall with
necessary wooden ware free of charge.

May 11, 1861
A special order has been issued, directing the commanders of companies in the 3d and 4th Regiments to continue enlisted men at quarters and board till further orders.

Weekly Patriot
Madison, Wis
May 11, 1861
PROCLAMATION 
Extra session of the Wisconsin Legislature
Executive Office, Madison, May 9, 1861
The extraordinary condition of the country, growing out of the rebellion against the Government of the United States makes it necessary that the Legislature of this State be convened in Special Session, to provide more completely for making the power of the State useful to the Government and to other loyal States.
I, therefore, in pursuance of the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby convene the Legislature of this State for a Special Session thereof to be held at Madison, on Wednesday, the 15th day of May, 1861 at 12M.
In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my (t.a.) hand and caused the Great
Seal of the State of Wisconsin to be affixed, this 9th day of May, A.D. 1861
By Governor: ALEX W. RANDALL
L.P. Harvey, Secretary of State

Now Let Slip the Dogs of War. 
The President's twenty days of grace is exhausted, and unless we soon witness the most decided military action against the rebels, the most intense distrust and excitement will prevail. We cannot now afford to permit the rebels, to maintain an armed defensive, to block our commerce, insult and hang our citizens, and annoy us in all manner of ways. No, the President has given ample time for all lawless bands to disperse, and it should not be sufficient for him to know the capital is merely safe, with 30,000 troops, at enormous expense, surrounding it. It will not be enough to keep what forts and arsenals we now holds by force of arms - It will not satisfy the law-abiding north to merely keep the Potomac, the Chesapeake, the Delaware - the railroad and telegraph communications free for government use and occupation by the force of 150,000 troops, at a cost of millions. No, these things are not enough - They must not be the sine qua non of the object for which 153,000 troops were marshaled into service at the tap of the drum.
The great north-west, and the upper Mississippi Valley are in a blaze of excitement. Here we are, cut off from the Gulf by piratical bandits, who not only hinder and menace our commerce, but threaten our lives. This state of thing's cannot - Must not - shall not long continue. If the powers that be do not give the word of command, the Mississippi - Civilians will "assume the responsibility," and in mighty phalanx of 200,000 strong, will swarm like clouds of Saharan locusts, overrunning the lower Mississippi, until every Bayou is free from piratical obstruction. All the captured forts must be retaken - All the stolen property must be restored - all menace must be withdrawn or the southern rebels will see such an outpouring of Hoosiers, Wolverines, Buckeyes, Badgers, Gophers and Hawkeye's as will overwhelm them in dismay.
Our commercial pathway to the Gulf must be kept free from the thorns and debris of rebellion or the Mississippi will be crimsoned from Cairo to the delta. This we believe to be the determined sentiment of every 999 out of a thousand who inhabit the Great West. We all prefer to have the government act - to take the lead, and to say "come, boys" but if we are not called out our volunteers will Go Out. They cannot and will not lie idle, so long as there is a foe in the field.
We must not merely stand on the defensive now - we must punch on the aggressive. That is, we must follow up the retreating foe - give him battle until he shall cry enough and be content to live under the good old stars and stripes - We say to the President and Cabinet, that the people of the great north-west are not satisfied with this apparent tardy movement. Our troops are anxious to be led on. 

They must and they will go. No power can keep them in check much longer and if the President don't soon give the word of command, the western battalions will put themselves under marching orders, and will be after the scalps of the free-booters.

The Power of the United North 
We have during the past three weeks had the most convincing evidence that an army can be assembled in the course of twenty or thirty days of seven hundred thousand men, devoted to the union. Here are the figures:

But a well appointed army of half this number, giving Wisconsin the privilege of furnishing 10,000 good men, would beyond all question be amply sufficient to conquer a permanent peace, and bury secession so deep that it would never be heard of again. We want to see an army called into the field on a scale of such magnitude, that Jeff. Davis and his crew, like Crockett's coon will be willing to come down and stay down, until it shall please the insulted laws to run them up as high as Human's gallows.

The Printers  
No trade or craft in the country has turned out an equal number of volunteers with the printers, in proportion to numbers. They are accustomed to the use of the "shooting stick" and no one would be "justified" in questioning their bravery in the "matter" of war. The printers have given a "proof" of patriotism, that all may "copy" after, with perfect "justification" So walk up and "register" your names in "large caps".

May 11, 1861 

The Southern, Atlantic and Gulf Coast from Cape Henry to the Mouth of the Rio Grande - Possibilities of Blockade -
The following is condensed from the New York Commercial Advertiser, and furnishes the names of the Southern ports, which must be taken into account in order to render a blockade complete:
Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds;
Beaufort, North Carolina;
Wilmington, North Carolina;
Georgetown, South Carolina;
Charleston, South Carolina;
Savannah, Georgia;
Brunswick, Georgia;
St. Mary's, Florida;
St. John's River, Florida;
St. Augustine, Florida;
Key West, Florida;
Fort Jefferson. Florida;
Cedar Keys, Florida;
St. Marks, Florida;
Pensacola, Florida;
Mobile, Alabama;
Mouths of the Mississippi;
Galveston, Texas;
Matazora Bay;
Brazos, Santiago;
Mouth of the Rio Grande;
Of these twenty-one points, a part are of but limited commercial importance, and are so inconvenient of access for ships of much burden, and have such limited means of communication from the rear as to render their blockade of minor importance for several months.

Post the Books  
We think that the events of this war will be more minutely chronicled than any of its predecessors. A corps of the most talented reporters have taken the field, and will no doubt give the world a minute description of every event, and every heroic deed. Post will the books, and let us have a war to refer to hereafter, that shall be a standard of bravery and patriotism in all ages to come.

Weekly Patriot, Madison, Wisconsin
The Programme Won't Work 
We see that the Journal and Argus, to say nothing of some other sheets, have raised the emancipation standard, and propose to make the abolition of slavery in all the south the leading object of this war. Now, we don't care how much slavery is crippled, as an incident of the war, but let us here sound a note of caution in the ears of the abolitionists - that the moment the purpose of abolition should be announced, or made reasonable certain, by the action of the Administration - our cause is dished, and the battle, if not decided against us would never be won by northern arms. - Strange that men of ordinary intelligence cannot see the breakers ahead. Once let it be announced at that moment every border state, instead of maintaining an armed neutrality would take up arms in bloody earnest and fight us to the bitter end; and besides thousands in the North whose very sympathy is with the Stars and
Stripes, and on the side of law, order and constitution would become neutralized at least, and would leave the war wholly in the hands of the Abolitionists.
We repeat we care not what may become of slavery - let it take its chances like any other institution  and bide the events of the war for Constitutional Government, and let not the North, for one moment, entertain the idea of waging a war of extermination against any institution recognized by our Constitution. Let us remember that we are to command the sympathy and friendly alliance of not only our own citizens, but those of foreign powers, only by fighting to uphold our constitution and laws as they existed at the date of rebellion. One step beyond this is fatal, and we become the aggressors, and will speedily loose the sympathy of all Christendom.

The Reception of Judge Douglas 
The people of Chicago, without distinction of party, did themselves peculiar honor in bestowing upon the distinguished Senator of Illinois such an enthusiastic welcome on Wednesday evening lost as monarch ever received. Judge Douglas was met at the depot on his arrival by a procession of twelve or fifteen thousand people, and escorted to the immense National Hall, where a living mass of humanity greeted his return.
He was welcomed to his home with a stirring address, from which we find room for the following:
"In the momentous issues of the present the political strife's of the past sink into utter insignificance. Then the nation was at peace, and the citizens turned aside from their daily avocations, only to rally under the standard of this or that party candidate. Now we are started by the beat of drum and by the bugle's martial notes. The North unites as with but one pulse with one arm in the rally.-
That rally is to the Battlefield; the Watchword "our Country" the more vigorous the prosecution of the war, the speedier will be the restoration of peace. The North, Sir did not inaugurate hostilities; neither is this a war of sections wherein men according to their nativity and residence are at liberty to exercise their option in choice of friends and foes. It is the struggle of patriots to uphold the majesty of the law and maintain the integrity of that government which of all others on the face of the earth is the noblest the proudest citadel for human liberty. When rebels essay to undermine it no patriot can falter between allegiance to his country and fellowship with those who would implant the envenomed fangs of treason in her very vitals.
"In such a crisis as this the people hold to strict account their public servants, whether in council or in camp - Hence execrated is Mason of Virginia; honored is Douglas, of Illinois. (Applause.)
"Davis basks for awhile in the sunshine of rebel favor, only to sink the deeper in eternal infamy. Scott, God bless him, in all the wealth of an approving conscience - right in the sight of God and man - adds new luster to his eventful life and ere long he will be classed with Washington by the glad acclaim of exulting millions. Applause)
"Sir, it is because of your prompt and gallant efforts to sustain the government casting off the shackles of the partisan for the freedom of the patriot, that Chicago receives you this night with open arms, and charges me, in her name to bid you Welcome!"

Judge Douglas after the deafening applause had subsided, made one of his happiest, popular, forensic efforts, declaring that 'Every man must be on the side of the United States, or against it - there can be no neutrals in this war", Long, loud and repeated cheers the vast assembly rising and tumultuously cheering the illustrious Senator and patriot. It was such an ovation as well might make any man proud of such a home, and such neighbors.

An Awful Catastrophe-
The Richmond (VA) Wig.

In an article on the feeling of the Old Commonwealth, says:
"There is a pride which every man born on Virginia soil feels in the State of his birth - Her past glories are his; her great men - the greatest the world ever produced - are his compatriots, and their name is a precious part of his inheritance. To see such a commonwealth subjugated and partitioned out among sniveling Yankees would drive all her men to desperation, all her women "would refuse to breed".
[Such a "refusal" on the part of the Virginia women would necessarily end the race of "great men" in that State.]

Announcement appeared in the Memphis papers of last week. That the burial of the American flag would be publicly celebrated by the military and citizens on Sunday, the 21inst.

A Female Zouave-A lady entered a wigmaker's establishment in Broadway, a few days ago and directed the hair dresser to cut her hair off short, and part it at the side. She stated that her husband had enlisted and that she was determined to follow him- N.Y. Tribune.

May 11,1861
More than Enough-
Every morning when we are in Secretary Watson's room for a time we hear gentleman from  various towns in the State complaining that good Companies organized in their towns are not placed in the first regiments instead of the Fourth, Fifth, or Sixth. They were reported full at an early day, but the trouble is that other companies were a little before them.
One gentleman from Prairie du Chien was complaining this morning that the Company formed there was not in a higher regiment than the sixth. It was reported full on the 29th April, and yet there were over 50 Companies ahead. He stated that the Company was well drilled and commanded by a gentleman who was perfectly educated as a military man, and had seen service. He had been untiring in drilling the Company, and it was now in a high state of efficiency, and the gentleman spoke highly of the discipline of the men and their appearance, and said it was too bad that after the citizens had kept them at their own expense for two weeks, such a Company should be disbanded.
Yet so it is all over the state, and although it must be mortifying to those in authority to allow such brave and worthy men to disband, yet when so many good men all over the State are anxious to meet the enemy there seems to be no other alternative, as up to the present time many more than enough for a much worse crisis have offered.

June 1861

Weekly Patriot
June 1 1861

Col. Ellsworth-This gallant officer was known to many of our citizens, as he lived in this city during the fall of 1859.
While here he had the appearance of a steady and studious young man and was devoted to the military art. He was reserved and courteous in his manners, and the friends he made were aware that he had plenty of solid metal in his composition, although he did not flaunt his qualifications, or made as much of them by show as some would do. For this reason when he become famous in the Zouave movement many were surprised that the quiet young man who had drilled some of the military of this city had attained such prominence. But he had the industry and energy necessary to make rapid progress in getting a knowledge of the art for which he had a natural aptitude, and the manner of his death shows that he was not lacking in the devotion of a patriot or the courage of a practical soldier.
His career, though short, has been bright and glorious, and its termination leaves a mark upon the annals of the time which can never be obliterated and will afford a theme of mournful and admiring interest when the patriots of the country are spoken of by succeeding generations.

Weekly Patriot
Madison, June 1, 1861

Interested- We notice that the Liverpool newspapers are discussing the probability of the U.S. Government being able to effectually blockade 3,000 miles of southern coast.
It is evident that the writers comfort themselves with the idea that it cannot be done, and it is curious to observe what a knowledge they have of the points at which vessels can load with cotton and successfully run the strongest blockade.

The Second Regiment - It is still in doubt whether the Second Regiment will leave Tuesday or Wednesday. General King has written from Washington to have them sent on without delay, and stating that they will be furnished with arms at Harrisburg.
The Madison Journal, June 17, 1861

Arrival At Janesville - The Second Regiment of Wisconsin Volunteers left Madison to-day at 11:45 AN and arrived here at 1 o'clock P.M.. There were over 1100 men, occupying 21 cars. When they arrived at the depot in this city there was a large crown of people, estimated at 3,000 or 4,000 who received the volunteers with hearty and reiterated cheers, to which the soldiers as enthusiastically responded. 

As the cars stopped the different companies marched to the tables near by which had been spread by our citizens with ample provisions for the whole regiment. As the time of stay in our city was limited there was little ceremony used upon the occasion. After the men had partaken of the collation, they immediately repaired to the cars, preparing for departure. Col. Coon thanked the people of this city for their generous hospitality and patriotic devotion to the cause of their country; to which Judge Armstrong made a short but appropriate reply.
While the troops were occupying the cars and the trains were preparing to depart there was much cheering on the part of the people waving of handkerchiefs by the ladies and shaking of hands between friends about to part perhaps forever. 

As Capt. Ely's company belonged in this city, there were crowds about them bidding them farewell. It was in some respects a sad scene, the separation of near and dear relatives, with the certainty almost that with some it would be final. 

The boys, however, appeared in good spirits and anxious for active service. The regiment is a fine body of men, strong and healthy and able to bear their part bravely in the rough duties of war. We have no doubt they will do so and that in active service we shall hear a good account of them. They appeared to be well provided with every necessary to make them comfortable. Their arms will be furnished them at their point of destination which is probably Washington, although nothing is known certainly about it. 

The regiment remained here about one hour, and departed at 2 o'clock for Chicago, amid the cheers and hearty good wishes of thousands of Janesville and Rock County people. If there had been a day's notice that the regiment would certainly arrive here at a specified time we have not a doubt that ten thousand of the hardy sons and daughters of Rock County would have greeted them.
Janesville Gazette, June 20, 1861

The Janesville Gazette is evidently out of humor. After an article involving the program of the movements of the second regiment, it adds a P.S. "Word has been sent us from Madison by Capt. Ely that the train will not stop here long enough to allow the entertainment provided for the soldiers and the train will not arrive until between one and two o'clock. We have to come to the conclusion that we nor anybody else knows anything about the matter and let the whole thing take it's own course. Probably if the regiment could have been hauled around by way of Milwaukee, the officers in command would find abundance of time to partake of the hospitalities of that city. It is likely that some-thing definite will be heard in time for the meeting this evening."
Milwaukee Sentinel, June 21, 1861

Reception of the Regiment at Chicago - The Regiment was met sixteen miles from Chicago by a special escort and committee and attended to the depot where the troops debarked about 6 PM. Their march across the city was a continued ovation. The escort was admirably managed by Col. J. H. Tuckers and Lieut. Col.'s J. R. Scott and Booth and the following companies made up the stage.
The Light Guard Band leading was followed by
Co. A Zouaves, Capt. Hayden
Co. B Zouaves, Capt. Clyborne
Co. D Zouaves, Capt. Colby
Co. F Highlanders, Capt. Kuffen
Light Guards, 60th Reg. Lieut. G. W. Gage
Anderson Rifles, Capt. Raymond
Several officer of the Irish Brigade were also in the procession which moved from the depot through Lake Street, Michigan Avenue and Van Buren Street to the Michigan Southern depot where the regiment took the cars for the east leaving at half past nine o'clock last evening. All along their route through the city thousands of spectators lined both sides of the streets. The enthusiasm was great. Much praise was elicited by the appearance of the troops to whom the whole community wished a safe journey.
Janesville Gazette, June 1861

Strawberry Depot. - dealers and families can be supplied with prime Strawberries, fresh every day, at the fruit store of Mr. Truslow's, No.101 East Water Street. These strawberries are put up in the best manner, and are the finest in this market. The attention of dealers, and families who may wish to supply themselves with the best, is directed to his advertisement.

Strawberries. - The renowned Wilson's Albany Seedling, from the celebrated fruit farm of Kidde and Knox, very choice, and put up in beautiful fruit baskets, of quart and pint size, imported daily by
f EDWARD TRUSLOWS
Jobber of Foreign Fruits

Milwaukee Sentinel, June, 1861

A gentleman from Alabama says that the large planters are still in the Union, A month ago there were fourteen counties in the state which had not sent a single volunteer. The "poor white trash" say, "We have no interest in going to war for the rich people; we have no property, no negroes to protect." When they go into large towns, however, they are taken into barrooms and when they get sober, find that they have enlisted in the war.
Madison Weekly Argus, June 25, 1861

Hints to Volunteers
Keep Your Shoes Easy

A. Soldier needs, besides his soldiery drill
1. Good feet.
2. A good stomach.
3. And after these comes the good head and the good heart.
But Good feet are distinctly the first thing. Without them you cannot get to your duty. If a comrade, or a horse, or a locomotive takes you in its back to the field you are useless there, and when the field is lost you cannot retire, run away, and save your bacon.
Good shoes and plenty of walking make good feet, A man who pretends to belong to an infantry company ought always to keep himself in training, so that any moment he can march twenty or thirty miles without feeling a pang or raising a blister. Was this the case with even a decimation of the army who rushed to defend Washington? Were you so trained my comrades of the Seventh?
A captain of a company who will let his men march with such shoes as I have seen on the feet of some poor fellows in this war ought to be garroted with shoe strings, or at least compelled to play Pope and wash the feet of the whole army of the Apostles of Liberty.
If you find a foot soldier lying beat out by the roadside, desperate as a sea-sick man, five to one his heels are too high, or his soles are too narrow or too thin, or his shoe is not made straight on the inside, so that the great toe can spread into its place as he treads.
I an old walker over the Alps across the water, and over Cordilleras, Sierras, deserts and prairies at home; I have done my near sixty miles a day without discomfort-and speaking from large experience, and with painful recollections of the suffering and death I have known for want of good feet on the march, I say to every volunteer: Trust in God: But keep you shoes easy!

The Appleton Motor reprinted from the Atlantic Monthly, 27. June 1861
Thanks to Cprl. Mark Karweick