NY Times 6-24-1863
From a Seneca County, New York newspaper in June 1863:
The National Guard.
Gov. SEYMOUR’s recent order for the organization of the National Guard of the State, in accordance with the law passed by the Legislature of 1861, may be found in our advertising columns today. A well-drilled militia is recognized as the chief defence of the country. Upon it we must rely for our protection and safety. Recent military events have clearly demonstrated the great necessity of a well organized militia. The emergency which recently required the presence of an additional force to protect the borders of Pennsylvania, should impress upon our people the importance of cultivating military organizations. Relying as we do upon the people for the defense of the government, every precaution should be taken to make our reliance sure and effective. Every man capable of bearing arms should be educated to their use. The organized militia should include every man liable to military duty, and his connection with the military service should be active. The service is honorable, and should be sought, not shunned.
The order of Gov. SEYMOUR is a timely one and we commend it to the notice of all. By it it will be seen that Seneca county is entitled to a regimental organization. We can readily furnish a full regiment of ten companies, and we trust that the several towns will move in the matter without delay. Our young men in the county should be prompt to inaugurate the movement. It only needs an effort and the thing is done. Gen. J.T. MILLER of our county, who is on the Governor’s Staff, has almost complete control over the organization of the militia, as will be seen by the order. Let us, therefore, raise a regiment here that Gen. MILLER will be proud of, and one too that will reflect honor upon our county.
Rorschach test? I see South Mountain, Chambersburg, and a highway to Harrisburg
I’m assuming the emergency referenced is the entrance of Confederate troops into Pennsylvania in June 1863. I thought this editorial might possibly have something to do with federalism and a Democrat paper wanting the Democrat governor to have more control over the troops. But the editors might also be getting nervous as rebels are getting closer to New York. At any rate, the certainly was a sense of emergency 150 years ago. As you can see from the June 24, 1863 New York Times cutting a postscript was inserted into the front page during the early hours.
And further down the column we learn that General Grant’s siege of Vicksburg “was progressing satisfactorily.”
… I think I might be spending way too much time at the Library of Congress.
