Contemporary copy of letter of Hamilton R. Gamble, Jefferson City, to Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, August 26, 1861
Digital Image
Identifier: D03022
Language of Materials
English
- Hamilton Rowan Gamble Papers | Letter from [Hamilton R. Gamble], Jefferson City, to Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States. Explains the situation in Missouri since the deposing of the late Governor Jackson and the appointment of the author to fill the executive office until an election is held in November. Stresses the fact that the Treasury of the state is bankrupts and the militia without any organization whatever. Has not effected any general organization of the militia for fear that he should collect a large portion of men hostile to the Union. Is attempting to gather a force for the purpose of maintaining the peace of the state and the security of its citizens. Believes it the government’s constitutional duty to bear the expense incurred in organizing, arming and supporting troops to suppress the rebellion. Speaks of the officiousness of the Home Guards, and the antagonism created by government troops brought in from other states with no proper knowledge of the situation in Missouri. “If it were possible to subject the military in action upon unarmed citizens to any control of a civil officer or of a body of civilians much of the cause of present complaint would be removed.” Says that Missouri “has become the theatre of a desolating war and is in danger of assuming an attitude of hostility to the Union.” Individuals mentioned include Claiborne F. Jackson. Places mentioned include Missouri. (10 pages and envelope) [Copy], 1861 Aug 26
Repository Details
Part of the Missouri Historical Society Library and Research Center Repository