American Civil War Game Club (ACWGC)

February 19, 1861 Tuesday
In Montgomery President Davis went to work to form his Cabinet. It took some days but the final results were – Secretary of State, Robert Toombs of Georgia; Secretary of the Treasury, Christopher G. Memminger of South Carolina; Secretary of War, LeRoy Pope Walker of Alabama; Secretary of the Navy, S.R. Mallory of Florida; Attorney General, Judah P. Benjamin of Louisiana; and Postmaster General, J.H. Reagan of Texas. (There was no Interior Department as in the United States.) Only Mallory and Reagan would remain in their posts until the end, although Benjamin stayed on in several different jobs. The Cabinet has been highly criticized by some, but others point out that, considering the circumstances and the difficulty of their tasks, most of these men were highly qualified and strove mightily to reap what they could for the embryo nation.

Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln leave Albany at 7:45 A.M. grateful for safe deliverance and resolved never to return. Rivalry between governor and members of legislature for honor of entertaining Lincoln has hampered visit. Mayor, civil dignitaries, and Corps of Burgesses escort the Lincolns to depot. Lincoln agrees to preinauguration housing arrangement in Washington: "I suppose I am now public property; and a public inn is the place where people can have access to me." At Troy, N.Y., replies from platform alongside train to welcome by 10,000 people and spokesman, Mayor Isaac McConihe. Speaks a New York towns of Rhinebeck, Hudson, Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, and Peekskill [which boasts of the oldest Lincoln Society in America]. Arriving 30th Street Station in New York 3 P.M. has hair smoothed and receives kiss from Mrs. Lincoln before leaving car. Presidential party occupies 11 carriages in procession to Astor House. Estimated 250,000 people watch; "crowd not as large as usual" on such an occasion. Lincoln rides in open carriage with Chairman Charles G. Cornell, city alderman, Col. Edwin V. Sumner, military aide in Lincoln party, and Judge David Davis, old Illinois friend and member of presidential party, and waves to crowd. No band or military company in procession. Acknowledges welcome of crowd at Astor House with few remarks at 4 P.M. Addresses crowd later: "I have kept silence for the reason that I supposed it was peculiarly proper that I should do so until the time came when, according to the customs of the country, I should speak officially." Dines with family. Receives Republican electors of city headed by William Cullen Bryant, editor, New York "Evening Post," about 8 P.M. at hotel, followed by Kings County, N.Y., delegation and several Republican clubs. Wives of politicians hold reception for Mrs. Lincoln. Lincoln thanks Brooklyn Common Council for invitation, but engagements will not permit visit. Promises people of Newark, N.J., that he will bow from train.

The U.S. paymaster’s office at New Orleans was seized by Louisiana troops.

Col. Carlos A. Waite at Camp Verde, Tex., took over nominal command of U.S. posts in the state, even though they had been surrendered the day before by Gen. Twiggs. But the damage had been done; post after post would soon fall or be abandoned.

Maryland continues a secessionist convention in Baltimore to consider its options. The convention ends without a declaration of secession.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 20, 1861 Wednesday
At Montgomery President Davis had hardly a moment even to write to his wife.

In New York City accompanied by Thurlow Weed, N. B. Judd, James W. Webb, editor, "Morning Courier and New York Enquirer," and Gov. William Sprague (R.I.), President-elect Lincoln leaves Astor House at 8:30 A.M. to breakfast with selected group of merchants at home of former Cong. Moses H. Grinnell (N.Y.), New York merchant. Returns to hotel at 10:30 A.M. and meets Joshua Dewey, aged 94, who has voted at every presidential election since George Washington's. Committee from common council headed by Alderman Cornell escorts Lincoln to City Hall at 11 A.M. to meet Mayor Fernando Wood and council. Replying to Wood's speech, Lincoln says: "There is nothing that can ever bring me willingly to consent to the destruction of this Union, under which . . . the whole country has acquired its greatness, unless it were to be that thing for which the Union itself was made." Remains for public reception; "motley crowd poured in"; shakes hands with 30 veterans of War of 1812; makes brief remarks from balcony of City Hall; and returns to hotel shortly after 1 P.M. In afternoon receives number of friends privately. Showman P. T. Barnum invites him to museum, but he does not go; Mrs. Lincoln and children accept. Meets former Gov. Hamilton Fish (N.Y.). Receives hats from both Knox and Leary, New York hatters; when asked their relative value, comments, "They mutually surpassed each other." Vice President-elect Hamlin arrives in New York and dines with Lincoln family in its hotel rooms. Lincoln, Judge Davis, and Alderman Cornell arrive late at Academy of Music for performance of Verdi's new opera "Un Ballo in Maschera." Lincoln wears black gloves and shocks city's é lite. After first act takes two bows in response to applause. Audience and cast sing "The Star Spangled Banner." Lincoln returns to hotel after second act. Hamlin speaks from window of ladies' parlor. Presidential party serenaded by German quartette from Hoboken and by National Guard band. Mrs. Lincoln holds reception at Astor House 8:30 to 10 P.M.

The Provisional Congress of the Confederacy authorized the President to make contracts in order to buy and manufacture materiel of war. The Confederate Navy Department was officially established.

P. G. T. Beauregard resigns from the U. S. Army.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 21, 1861 Thursday
In Texas the U.S. property at Brazos Santiago was seized and Federals abandoned Camp Cooper.

The Confederate Congress declared navigation of the Mississippi River free and open, and officially declared the establishment of the executive departments of the government. President Davis named Stephen R. Mallory of Florida Secretary of the Navy.

The Lincoln party departs from New York via Cortlandt Street ferry at 8 A.M. escorted by cheering crowd and salvos of artillery. At Jersey City, N.J., replies briefly to welcome by William L. Dayton, attorney general of New Jersey. To quiet the crowd, speaks a second time. At Newark, N.J., Lincoln detrains at "lower depot" and rides one and a half miles in open carriage through town to "upper depot." At each depot is introduced and makes short speech. One estimate reports crowd at 75,000, lower estimate is 25,000. Replies from rear platform to introduction by J. J. Chetwood at Elizabeth, N.J. Rahway, N.J., crowd of 3,000 sees Lincoln for moment. Judge John Van Dyke introduces him from train to 5,000 spectators at New Brunswick, N.J.; Lincoln replies. Thirty-four-gun national salute at 12 M. signifies arrival of presidential party at Trenton, N.J. Mayor Mills welcomes Lincoln, who replies and joins W. L. Dayton in open carriage for trip to capitol. En route to Washington, D. C., Lincoln stops in Trenton, New Jersey, where he addresses the state senate. He remarks, "You give me this reception . . . without distinction of party. . . . [T]his body is composed of a majority of gentlemen who, in the exercise of their best judgment in the choice of a Chief Magistrate, did not think I was the man. . . . [N]evertheless . . . they came forward here to greet me as the constitutional President of the United States . . . the representative man of the nation, united by a purpose to perpetuate the Union and liberties of the people." To General Assembly he says: "I shall do all that may be in my power to promote a peaceful settlement of our difficulties. The man does not live who is more devoted to peace than I am. None who would do more to preserve it. But it may be necessary to put the foot down firmly." Goes to Trenton House for lunch; by popular demand makes few remarks from balcony. Leaves Trenton shortly after 2 P.M. Speaks briefly from train at Bristol, Pa. Arrives Kensington depot Philadelphia at 4 P.M. Receives 34-gun salute by Minute Men of '76 and rides in carriage to Continental Hotel while 100,000 persons watch. Speaks from balcony of hotel in reply to welcome by Mayor Alexander Henry. Retires from balcony to dine with Mrs. Lincoln in adjoining room. Stands in receiving line for public reception beginning 8:30 P.M. Toward end of reception N. B. Judd asks Lincoln to meet with him and Frederick W. Seward who has just arrived from Washington with letter to Lincoln from his father, Sen. Seward (N.Y.). Letter, based upon information obtained by Gen. Scott and Capt. Charles P. Stone (USA, resd.) describes plot to assassinate Lincoln while passing through Baltimore. Detectives employed by railroad also report similar plot. Lincoln thanks Seward for bringing letter and comments that he will consider the advice to change time and schedule. Refuses to change plans until commitments in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pa., are completed. City's celebration of Lincoln's visit continues with band concert and fireworks. Lincoln meets delegation representing Pennsylvania state administration in chambers of Judge James Milliken in Philadelphia and learns that opposition to Sen. Cameron's (Pa.) appointment has been withdrawn. Mrs. Lincoln objects to living in private home while waiting to occupy White House. Plans are changed.

Three New York ships are seized at Savannah, Georgia, by order of the Georgia Governor.

Those interested in the CSA Postal Service that was established this day can find good material at http://csapostoffice.com/

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 22, 1861 Friday
In Philadelphia, President-elect Lincoln goes in carriage, escorted by Scott Legion, from Continental Hotel down Chestnut St. to Independence Hall about 6:30 A.M. for the Washington’s Birthday celebration. In reply to speech of welcome by Theodore L. Cuyler, president of Select Council of Philadelphia, he says: "I have never had a feeling politically that did not spring from the sentiments embodied in the Declaration of Independence. . . . in my view of the present aspect of affairs, there is no need of bloodshed and war." Shortly after 7 A.M. raises new flag of 34 stars in front of Independence Hall and makes brief speech. [Thirty-fourth star represents Kansas, admitted January 29, 1861.] Departs for Harrisburg and arrives at Vine and 2d St. railroad station in Harrisburg at 1:30 P.M. after brief stops and speeches at Leaman Place and Lancaster, Pa. Mrs. Lincoln appears with him on platform at Leaman Place, and Lincoln describes situation as "the long and the short of it." Gov. Andrew J. Curtin (Pa.) welcomes Lincoln at Jones House; Lincoln replies: "It shall be my endeavor to preserve the peace of this country." Military escort, senators, and members of house accompany Lincoln to State House at 2:30 P.M. for address before joint meeting. Returns to Jones House at 3 P.M. and learns new plans for trip to Washington in order to avoid any possible difficulty in pro-Southern Baltimore. Judge Davis asks his opinion; Lincoln answers: "Unless there are some other reasons besides ridicule I am disposed to carry out Judd's plan." After public dinner Curtin invites Lincoln to spend night at his home. Instead, he, Lincoln, and W. H. Lamon leave hotel and drive to outskirts of city, where Lincoln and Lamon board special train scheduled to reach Philadelphia in time to connect with 11 P.M. Washington train. Telegraph lines to Baltimore were cut to prevent communications from passing between potential conspirators in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Meanwhile, Lincoln arrived secretly in Baltimore in the middle of the night. The most dangerous link in the journey was in Baltimore where a city ordinance prohibited night-time rail travel through the downtown area. As a result, the railcars had to be horse-drawn between the President Street and Camden Street stations. According to Pinkerton, a captain of the roads reported that there was a plot to stab him. The alleged plan was to have several assassins, armed with knives, interspersed throughout the crowd that would gather to greet Lincoln at the President Street station. When Lincoln emerged from the car, which he must do to change trains, at least one of the assassins would be able to get close enough to kill him. Once Lincoln's rail carriage had safely passed through Baltimore, Pinkerton sent a one-line telegram to the president of the Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad: "Plums delivered nuts safely." The remainder of the Lincoln party was left to come as originally planned. On the afternoon of February 23, Lincoln's scheduled train arrived in Baltimore. The large crowd that gathered at the station to see the President-elect quickly learned that Lincoln had already passed by. Even though the rest of the Lincoln party, including Mrs. Lincoln and the children, had been on this train as originally scheduled, they had already alighted from the train in an unscheduled stop several blocks north of the President Street station.

In Charleston the people celebrated Washington’s Birthday just as they had in Philadelphia. Gov. Pickens spoke and there were parades of military companies.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 23, 1861 Saturday
President-elect Lincoln Arrives In Washington

Philadelphia-to-Washington train, with Lincoln, W. H. Lamon, and detective Allan Pinkerton on board, switches to Baltimore & Ohio tracks about 4 A.M. at Baltimore and arrives Washington 6 A.M. Cong. Washburne (Ill.) surprises Lincoln by meeting train with carriage and driving him to Willard's Hotel, 14th St. and Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Lincoln breakfasts with Sen. Seward (N.Y.), after which they call upon President Buchanan at White House and meet members of cabinet. Calls on Gen. Scott, who is not home. Returns to Willard's. Telegraphs Mrs. Lincoln in Harrisburg, Pa., of safe arrival Washington 6 A.M. At 2 P.M. Scott returns Lincoln's call. Visitors include Montgomery Blair [soon to be postmaster general] and father, Francis P. Blair, Sr., Washington newspaperman and political figure. [About this date Lincoln visits Mathew B. Brady, 352 Pennsylvania Ave. and poses for several photographs.] Receives Illinois delegation headed by Sen. Stephen A. Douglas (Ill.) in late afternoon. Goes by carriage to Seward's residence at 7 P.M. to dine privately. On return from dinner finds long hall at Willard's lined with people and is so interested in greeting friends on either hand that he forgets to remove hat. Delegates to Peace Conference meeting in Washington call upon Lincoln at 9 P.M. Sen.-elect Chase (Ohio) [soon to be secretary of treasury] and Lucius E. Chittenden, delegate from Vermont, introduce them. Lincoln holds impromptu public reception for members of Congress and persons of distinction crowding parlor and anterooms. Buchanan's cabinet calls at 10 P.M. Mrs. Lincoln leaves Harrisburg at 9 A.M. on Presidential train, dines at home of John S. Gittings, Baltimore financier and director of B. & O., arrives Washington about 4 P.M., and rides to hotel with Seward and Washburne.

The voters of Texas approved secession 34,794 to 11,235 in the referendum ordered by the legislature and the secession convention. Texas thus became the 7th southern state to secede from the Union.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 24, 1861 Sunday
The Montgomery Convention completes the Constitution of the Confederate States of America.

President-elect Lincoln’s family breakfasts at hotel. Lincoln attends St. John's Episcopal Church, opposite Executive Mansion, with Sen. Seward (N.Y.) and after service spends two hours at Seward's home. In afternoon reads newspaper comments on recent speeches. Receives many callers including Sen. John J. Crittenden (Ky.) and Cong. Charles Francis Adams (Mass.). In evening Vice President John C. Breckinridge calls. Lincoln speaks briefly from hotel window to crowd attending serenade by Marine Band. Seward returns copy of Inaugural Address with written comments.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 25, 1861 Monday
In Montgomery President Davis was attempting to take in hand the situation at Charleston, sending out messengers and making inquiries. Davis appointed Benjamin to be the first Attorney General of the Confederacy, remarking later that he chose him because he "had a very high reputation as a lawyer, and my acquaintance with him in the Senate had impressed me with the lucidity of his intellect, his systematic habits, and capacity for labor." Benjamin has been often referred to as "the Brains of the Confederacy.”

President-elect Lincoln, escorted by Sen. Seward (N.Y.), attends informal reception in both houses of Congress and visits justices of Supreme Court during afternoon. In evening Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln receive visitors for two hours in hotel parlors.

The Saratoga, a ship in the U. S. African Squadron, captures the sloop Express, a slave ship.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 26, 1861 Tuesday
The Peace Convention still meeting in Washington began voting on the resolutions or amendments it would advocate.

Mr. Lincoln was embroiled in conferences over Cabinet posts and with political leaders. Accompanied by son Robert and John G. Nicolay, private secretary to President-elect, Lincoln takes long walk shortly after sunrise. Interviews two committees representing former Gov. Nathaniel P. Banks (Mass.) and urging his appointment as secretary of war. Sen.-elect Ira Harris (N.Y.) calls on Lincoln in afternoon. Lincoln receives memorials from New York and Boston publishers requesting appointment of Cong. Schuyler Colfax (Ind.) as postmaster general. Visits Senate to confer with Republican leaders. Holds interview for several hours with Gov. Thomas H. Hicks (Md.), Sen. Douglas (Ill.), and others who recommend that he interpose his influence for settlement of pending difficulties. Replies to Sen. Trumbull (Ill.), and Congs. Washburne (Ill.) and Anson Burlingame (Mass.), committee of Congress reporting electoral count. Mrs. Lincoln receives friends from 3 to 4 P.M. and from 8 to 10 P.M.

Camp Colorado, Tex., was abandoned by Federal authorities.

Confederate States of America - Message to Congress February 26, 1861
EXECUTIVE OFFICE, February 26, 1861.
Gentlemen of the Congress: Though the General Government of the Confederate States is specially charged with the questions arising from the present condition of Forts Sumter and Pickens, and the Executive is required by negotiation or other means to obtain possession of those works, and though the common defense and the issues of peace or war of the Confederate States must necessarily be conducted by their general agents, the only material of war which we possess is held by the authorities of the several States. To distribute the arms and munitions so as best to provide for the defense of the country, it is needful that they be placed under the control of the General Government. We have now but little information as to the quantity and quality of the military supplies on hand, and have no authority to call for returns from the officers of the States. The courtesy and patriotism of the respective Governors would no doubt willingly meet such inquiry, and would probably induce them to transfer either armament or stores in compliance with a requisition from this Government, but efficiency requires the exclusive control as well of the means as of the works of defense. The General Government being also charged with foreign intercourse, may have in the course of negotiation to account for the property of the United States which, as a consequence of secession, passed under the authority of the several States anterior to the formation of this Government. For these considerations I respectfully suggest that the proper legislation. be adopted to secure the transfer of all arms and munitions now in the forts, arsenals, and navy yards to the custody of the Government of the Confederate States, and that full returns be made of all arms and munitions which have been distributed from the public stores to the troops of the several States, with authority to this Government to take charge of the accountability for them, and also to receive, to be accounted for to the several States, such arms and munitions as have been purchased by them, and which they are willing to devote to the common service of the Confederacy. The difficulty of supplying our wants in that regard by purchases abroad or by manufacture at home is well known to the Congress, and will render unnecessary an argument to enforce the general policy herein presented, and I have only respectfully to commend the subject to your consideration.
JEFF'N DAVIS.

Confederate States of America - Message to Congress February 26, 1861 (European Commission)
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT,
MONTGOMERY, ALA., February 26, 1861.
Hon. Howell Cobb, President of the Congress. ,
Sir: I hereby transmit for the advice of the Congress the following nominations, in accordance with a resolution passed Febuary 13, 1861, to provide for a commission to proceed to Europe under instructions to be given: W. L. Yancey, of Alabama; P. A. Rost, of Louisiana; A. Dudley Mann, of Confederate States.
JEFF'N DAVIS.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 27, 1861 Wednesday
President Davis in Montgomery named three Confederate commissioners to Washington to attempt negotiations with the Federals. He chose Martin J. Crawford, John Forsyth, and A.B. Roman.

Confederate States of America - Letter of President Davis to President Lincoln February 27, 1861
MONTGOMERY, February 27, 1861.
The President of the United States: Being animated by an earnest desire to unite and bind together our respective countries by friendly ties, I have appointed M. J. Crawford, one of our most settled and trustworthy citizens, as special commissioner of the Confederate States of America to the Government of the United States; and I have now the honor to introduce him to you, and to ask for him a reception and treatment corresponding to his station and to the purpose for which he is sent. Those purposes he will more particularly explain to you. Hoping that through his agency. &c. [sic.]
JEFF'N DAVIS.
For the purpose of establishing friendly relations between the Confederate States and the United States, and reposing special trust, &c., Martin J. Crawford, John Forsyth, and A. B. Roman are appointed special commissioners of the Confederate States to the United States. I have invested them with full and all manner of power and authority for and in the name of the Confederate States to meet and confer with any person or persons duly authorized by the Government of the United States being furnished with like powers and authority, and with them to agree, treat, consult, and negotiate of and concerning all matters and subjects interesting to both nations, and to conclude and sign a treaty or treaties, convention or conventions, touching the premises, transmitting the same to the President of the Confederate States for his final ratification by and with the consent of the Congress of the Confederate States.
Given under my hand at the city of Montgomery this 27th day of February, A.D. 1861, and of the Independence of the Confederate States the eighty-fifth.
JEFF N DAVIS.
ROBERT TOOMBS, Secretary of State.


In Washington the Peace Convention sent the results of its deliberations to Congress. Six constitutional amendments were proposed. First amendment – that involuntary servitude be prohibited north of 36 degrees 30 minutes; that in land south of that line slavery could exist while such area was a territory and Congress could not hinder it; that upon admittance as a state it could come in with or without slavery as its state constitution provided. Second amendment – no further territory should be acquired except through treaty and by consent of four fifths of the Senate. Third amendment – that Congress could not regulate, abolish, or control slavery in the states or territories. Fourth amendment – fugitive slave provisions of the Constitution should be enforced and Congress should not interfere. Fifth amendment – that the foreign slave trade be prohibited. Sixth amendment – there should be compensation for loss of fugitives from labor in certain cases. There was much dissatisfaction with the results and they never stood a chance in Congress. The Peace Convention had not even been too peaceful, with much bickering and dissatisfaction among its members.

From Charleston Gov. Pickens wrote President Davis, “we feel that our honor and safety require that Fort Sumter should be in our possession at the very earliest moment.”

In Washington President-elect Lincoln walks two miles and holds long interview with former Sen. John Bell (Tenn.) before breakfast. Washington, D. C. Mayor James G. Berret extends an official welcome to President-elect Lincoln, who resides at the Willard's Hotel. Mayor Berret expresses hope that Lincoln will "restore peace and harmony to our now distracted country." Lincoln acknowledges the "ill feeling that has existed and still exists between the people of the section from whence I came and the people here." He declares, "I have not now any purpose to withhold from you any of the benefits of the constitution . . . that I would not feel myself constrained to withhold from my own neighbors." Receives clerks of executive departments. Talks with Sen. Douglas (Ill.) who stays late to make impassioned plea for conciliation of South. Goes to Capitol and receives justices of Supreme Court in afternoon. At 9 P.M. group of border statesmen, including former Sec. of Treasury James Guthrie of Kentucky and Alexander W. Doniphan of Missouri, calls to talk compromise.

In the House proposal after proposal was voted down. A plan for a constitutional convention lost; the Crittenden proposal finally lost; an amendment not to interfere with slavery lost, but was reconsidered the next day.

U.S. Congress authorized construction of seven steam sloops to augment existing naval strength. Gideon Welles, soon to be Secretary of the Navy, noted, "for steam, as well as heavy ordnance, has become an indispensable element of the most efficient naval power."

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

February 28, 1861 Thursday
The Missouri State Convention met at Jefferson City to consider secession with a motion to go into secret session defeated. A resolution requiring members to take an oath to support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Missouri was defeated: yeas 30, neas 65.

Sen. Crittenden (Ky.) calls upon President-elect Lincoln to talk compromise. Several New York delegations see Lincoln about cabinet appointments and other matters. Cong. Elbridge G. Spaulding (N.Y.), capitalist, gives private dinner at National Hotel in honor of Lincoln and Vice President-elect Hamlin; Gen. Scott present, also some Republican leaders depressed by prospect of losing Southern business. Evening enlivened by Lincoln remarking, apropos news item about Georgian oath to wear no clothes produced under Republican regime, that he would like to see some Georgia gentlemen clad in the costume produced in their state—a shirt collar and a pair of spurs. Lincoln and Hamlin make speeches responding to serenade by Republican Association. George S. Boutwell, former governor of Massachusetts, and Gen. Wool hold long interviews with Lincoln.

The United States Territory of Colorado was formed. The territory was organized in the wake of the Pike's Peak Gold Rush of 1858–1861 which brought the first large concentration of white settlement to the region. The boundaries of the Colorado Territory were identical with those of the current State of Colorado. The organization of the territory helped solidify Union control over a mineral rich area of the Rocky Mountains.

Congress, nearing the end of its session, was crammed with last minute business. The House passed and sent to the Senate the amendment of Thomas Corwin of Ohio as devised by the Committee of Thirty-three and approved by President-elect Lincoln, that slavery could not be interfered with by the Federal government in states where it already existed. This move was described by some as a “harbinger of peace.”

Ex-President John Tyler (1841-1845) and James A. Seddon, Commissioners to the Peace Congress, present their report to the Virginia Legislature, and denounced the recommendations of that body as a delusion and a sham, and as an insult and an offense to the South.

North Carolina voters turned down a state convention on secession (yeas 46,671, neas 47,333), thus showing strong pro-Union sentiment.

Confederate States of America - Veto Message February 28, 1861 (Slave Trade)
VETO MESSAGE.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT, February 28, 1861.
Gentlemen of Congress: With sincere deference to the judgment of Congress, I have carefully considered the bill in relation to the slave trade, and to punish persons offending therein, but have not been able to approve it, and therefore do return it with a statement of my objections. The Constitution (section 7, article I.) provides that the importation of African negroes from any foreign country other than slave-holding States of the United States is hereby forbidden, and Congress is required to pass such laws as shall effectually prevent the same. The rule herein given is emphatic, and distinctly directs the legislation which shall effectually prevent the importation of African negroes. The bill before me denounces as high misdemeanor the importation of African negroes or other persons of color, either to be sold as slaves or to be held to service or labor, affixing heavy, degrading penalties on the act, if done with such intent. To that extent it accords with the requirements of the Constitution, but in the sixth section of the bill provision is made for the transfer of persons who may have been illegally imported into the Confederate States to the custody of foreign States or societies, upon condition of deportation and future freedom, and if the proposition thus to surrender them shall not be accepted, it is then made the duty of the President to cause said negroes to be sold at public outcry to the highest bidder in any one of the States where such sale shall not be inconsistent with the laws thereof. This provision seems to me to be in opposition to the policy declared in the Constitution - the prohibition of the importation of African negroes - and in derogation of its mandate to legislate for the effectuation of that object. Wherefore the bill is returned to you for your further consideration, and, together with the objections, most respectfully submitted.
JEFF'N DAVIS.

Meanwhile the media’s attention became affixed upon this story instead of war clouds. There was an old saying that there was "no law west of St. Louis and no God west of Fort Smith," and the events that took place there in February of 1861 gave some real meaning to the quote. A gunfight broke out in a local grocery and citizens swarmed into the streets with vengeance on their minds. The situation was so bad that soldiers from the post of Fort Smith had to intervene and even then they were not able to save the lives of all of the suspects involved:

A terrible tragedy occurred at Fort Smith, Arkansas, Thursday night. A party of five overland mail and Little Rock coach drivers entered the grocery of a German, named Hagge, and commenced quarreling; pistols were drawn on both sides; the barkeeper, named Butcher, was shot through the heart and died instantly; Hagge received a shot in the forehead and died at eight o’clock Friday morning. Three of the drivers, George Bennett, Matt Ellis and Pony Farmer, were arrested, and guarded by a company of military. The other two escaped. Intense excitement was created; a mob entered the justice’s office for the purpose of lynching them. – Farmer, one of the prisoners, broke from custody and attempted to escape. He was fired upon and instantly killed. The crowd then secured the remaining prisoners and made for a place of execution, but before they could carry out their designs the authorities interfered and secured the prisoners, and lodged them in Greenwood jail. The excitement in regard to the affair still continues intense.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

March 1, 1861 Friday
The Confederate States of America assumed control of military affairs at Charleston, S.C., where the problem of Fort Sumter remained very much unsolved. President Davis named P.G.T. Beauregard to command the area. Maj. Robert Anderson, commanding the small Federal garrison, at Fort Sumter, told Washington that events were arriving at a point where further delay on the decision to evacuate or reinforce would be impossible. At the moment the Federals had friendly relations with the South Carolinians and provisions were allowed. At the same time extensive Confederate works were being built at various points around the harbor and troops were training and drilling.

Sec. of War Joseph Holt ordered Brig. Gen. David E. Twiggs dismissed from the U.S. Army “for his treachery to the flag of his country” in having surrendered military posts and Federal property in Texas to state authorities.

In Washington President-elect Lincoln spends most of day in private interviews. Offers War Dept. cabinet post to Sen. Cameron (Pa.), who accepts. Receives warning of plot to assassinate him during inauguration parade. Cong.-elect George P. Fisher (Del.) warns Lincoln of possible Negro uprising on March 4, 1861. Lincoln, Lord Richard Lyons (British Minister), Gen. Scott, and others attend dinner given by Rudolph Schleiden, Bremen Minister. Mrs. Lincoln, accompanied by Mrs. Sarah B. McLean, wife of John McLean, Associate Justice, U.S. Supreme Court, calls at White House and visits with Miss Harriet Lane, President Buchanan's niece and hostess.

The U. S. Congress refuses to act upon Virginia's Peace Conference proposals.


Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard

General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard was born near New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1818, of French and Welch ancestry. He attended West Point, from which he was graduated in 1838, and was a student in Major Robert Anderson’s artillery class. An outstanding cadet, he stayed on briefly at the Academy as an assistant artillery instructor. Beauregard's expertise was in engineering, and after leaving West Point, he worked on fortifications, chiefly in Louisiana. With the outbreak of the Mexican War, he served as an engineer on the staff of General Winfield Scott. He served with distinction, particularly during the siege of Mexico City, and was brevetted for his valor to major.

After the war, Beauregard returned to Louisiana as an engineer. He was in charge of draining the site of New Orleans, and rose to the rank of captain. In 1860, he was selected as superintendent of West Point, but his announced sympathy for the secessionist cause in Louisiana cut short his tenure. In January 1861, he was transferred after serving only five days as superintendent of the Academy. Shortly after, in February, he resigned from the army and was immediately appointed brigadier general in the Confederate army. He was sent to take command of the forces around Charleston. Combining the qualities of a southern gentleman and a military hero, Beauregard was a celebrated figure in Charleston upon his arrival.


Robert Anderson

A southerner by birth, Robert Anderson was born near Louisville, Kentucky, in 1805. His brother, Richard, was a lawyer, politician, and diplomat, and Anderson, after graduating from West Point in 1825, briefly served as his brother's private secretary when he was minister to Colombia. He then pursued a career in the military, serving in the Black Hawk and Florida wars, and later as a captain under General Winfield Scott in the Mexican War. An expert in artillery, Anderson was honored for his bravery in the field.

During the secession crisis, Anderson, now a major, was chosen to command the federal forts in Charleston Harbor. The appointment owed much to his southern ties. Southern born, married to a Georgian, he was a defender of slavery. He seemed to the Buchanan administration likely to be cautious and tactful in his duties, thereby avoiding actions provocative to South Carolina.

Southerners thought Anderson would be sympathetic to their demands that the forts be turned over to the South. Indeed, Anderson himself seemed to think that if war could be avoided, the seceding states might, ultimately, return peaceably to the Union. He wished to avoid an outbreak of fighting and, as his situation at Sumter deteriorated, he considered evacuation both necessary on military grounds and desirable in terms of avoiding provocation. These sentiments raised some doubt in Lincoln's mind about his loyalty. However, Anderson held firmly to the Union and to his responsibilities as an officer.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

March 2, 1861 Saturday
The Provisional Confederate Congress meeting in Montgomery, Ala., provided for the admission of Texas to the Confederacy.

As the Thirty-sixth U.S. Congress wound up its work, a number of measures were approved by President Buchanan. Two new territories, Nevada and Dakota, were set up. Dakota included what later became North and South Dakota and much of Wyoming and Montana. A $10,000,000 loan was authorized and the Morrill Tariff Act approved, which substituted specific for ad valorem duties and also increased some duties from 5 to 10 per cent, especially on wool and iron. Also receiving approval was a joint resolution to amend the Constitution. This provided that “no amendment shall be made to the Constitution which will authorize or give Congress the power to abolish or interfere within any State with the domestic institutions thereof, including that of persons held to labor or service by said State.” This proposed amendment was never approved by the states. The Senate rejected a proposal of John J. Crittenden of Kentucky to adopt the constitutional amendment submitted by the Peace Convention of Feb. 27. Thus the Senate declared itself against the Peace Convention resolutions. It was Crittenden’s last major effort in Congress to bring about peace; from now on he devoted his efforts to controlling, as he saw it, the purposes of the war.

In Washington President-elect Lincoln was having problems with Cabinet appointments. Lincoln withholds admittance of uninvited visitors. Goes for drive in carriage presented by New York friends. Receives two delegations from Virginia. Deputation headed by Simeon Draper, New York merchant and friend of Sen. Seward (N.Y.), protests appointment of Sen.-elect Chase (Ohio) to cabinet. Lincoln proposes alternate slate without Seward's name. Delegation retires nonplussed. Seward writes Lincoln asking leave to withdraw from cabinet appointment. Lincoln promises Vice President-elect Hamlin to appoint two of his friends—Hamlin's first such request. Dines with Gen. Scott in evening.

In a message to Congress, President Buchanan said troops had been ordered to Washington for the purpose of preserving peace and order and defended his action.

The Federal Revenue Cutter Henry Dodge was seized by Texas state authorities at Galveston.

The United States Revenue Cutter Service was established by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton in 1790 as an armed maritime law enforcement service. Throughout its entire existence the Revenue Cutter Service operated under the authority of the United States Department of the Treasury. In 1915 the Service merged with the United States Life-Saving Service to form the United States Coast Guard. Immediately after the American Revolutionary War the brand-new United States was struggling to stay financially afloat. National income was desperately needed and a great deal of this income came from import tariffs. Because of rampant smuggling, the need was immediate for strong enforcement of tariff laws, and on August 4, 1790 the United States Congress, urged on by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton, created the Revenue-Marine, later renamed the Revenue Cutter Service by act of July 31, 1894 (28 Stat. 171). It would be the responsibility of the new Revenue-Marine to enforce the tariff and all other maritime laws. In 1832, Secretary of the Treasury Louis McLane ordered in writing for revenue cutters to conduct winter cruises to assist mariners in need, and Congress made the practice an official part of regulations in 1837. This was the beginning of the lifesaving mission that the later U.S. Coast Guard would be best known for worldwide. Cutter captains were answerable to and received their sailing orders directly from the Customs Collector of the port to which they were assigned.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

March 3, 1861 Sunday
President-elect Lincoln remains in quarters all day, presumably working on Inaugural Address and cabinet appointments. Is willing to have convention of all states to adjust differences between North and South. Sen. Seward (N.Y.) confers at length with Lincoln regarding cabinet appointments. In morning interview President offers navy cabinet post to Gideon Welles, Connecticut newspaperman and politician, who accepts. Lincoln gives dinner for William H. Seward, Salmon P. Chase, Gideon Welles, Montgomery Blair, Simon Cameron, Caleb B. Smith, and Edward Bates, whose names he forwards to Senate as members of cabinet.

Army commander Gen. Winfield Scott wrote William H. Seward that he believed it impracticable to relieve Fort Sumter. Meanwhile, the Army went ahead with preparations to protect the inaugural ceremonies set March 4.

At Charleston Brig. Gen. Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard assumed command of Confederate troops around Charleston Harbor.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

March 4, 1861 Monday
Inauguration of Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln of Illinois was inaugurated sixteenth President of the United States. In the morning President Buchanan and his Cabinet met at the Capitol to examine final bills. Sec. of War Holt informed the President that he had word from Maj. Anderson that without twenty thousand reinforcements Fort Sumter could not be held or supplied. Holt indicated he would inform the President-elect.

Morning cloudy and raw; 30,000 gather to hear Inaugural Address; no disturbance occurs during day. Lincoln sends letter to Sen. Seward (N.Y.) asking him to remain in cabinet and to reply by 9 A.M. next day. President-elect receives Judge Davis, Edward Bates, Gideon Welles, and others. Gives final touches to Inaugural Address. Shortly after 12 M. President Buchanan and Lincoln emerge from 14th Street door of hotel and join Sens. James A. Pearce (Md.) and Edward D. Baker (Oreg.) of Arrangements Committee. In open carriage they ride in procession to Capitol. Files of soldiers line streets; riflemen on rooftops watch windows; artillery is posted near Capitol, which Lincoln enters through boarded tunnel. Senate is called to order, and oath of office administered to Hannibal Hamlin by Vice President Breckinridge. Buchanan and Lincoln occupy seats in front of secretary's desk. On portico of Capitol about 1 P.M. Baker introduces Lincoln. Weather is bright and clear. On rising to deliver Inaugural Address Lincoln "could hardly find room for his hat, and Senator Douglas reaching forward, took it with a smile and held it during the delivery of the Address."

Lincoln adjusts glasses, unfolds manuscript, and reads: "Apprehension seems to exist among the people of the Southern States, that by the accession of a Republican Administration, their property, and their peace, and personal security, are to be endangered. There has never been any reasonable cause for such apprehension. . . . I take the official oath to-day, with no mental reservations, and with no purpose to construe the Constitution or laws, by any hypercritical rules. . . . I hold, that in contemplation of universal law, and of the Constitution, the Union of these States is perpetual. . . . It follows from these views that no State, upon its own mere motion, can lawfully get out of the Union,—that resolves and ordnances to that effect are legally void; . . . I therefore consider that in view of the Constitution and the laws, the Union is unbroken; and, to the extent of my ability, I shall take care, . . . that the laws of the Union be faithfully executed in all the States. . . . In doing this there needs to be no bloodshed or violence; and there shall be none unless it be forced upon the national authority. . . . One section of our country believes slavery is right, and ought to be extended, while the other believes it is wrong, and ought not to be extended. This is the only substantial dispute. . . . The Chief Magistrate derives all his authority from the people, and they have conferred none upon him to fix terms for the separation of the States. . . . By the frame of the government under which we live, this same people have wisely given their public servants but little power for mischief; . . . While the people retain their virtue, and vigilence [sic], no administration, by any extreme of wickedness or folly, can very seriously injure the government, in the short space of four years. . . . If it were admitted that you who are dissatisfied, hold the right side in the dispute, there still is no single good reason for precipitate action. . . . In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. . . . We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, streching [sic] from every battelefield, and patriot grave, to every living heart and hearthstone, all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature." He finishes in half an hour. Chief Justice Roger B. Taney administers oath of office. Marine band plays "God Save Our President," and procession to White House begins.

Lincoln and Buchanan exchange farewells at Executive Mansion. President's first official act is to sign John G. Nicolay's appointment as private secretary. About 17 persons sit down with President to first dinner in White House. Lincoln interrupts dinner and speaks to delegation of nearly 1,000 New Yorkers. Presidential party arrives at Inaugural Ball at 11 P.M. Sen. Henry B. Anthony (R.I.) and Vice President Hamlin attend President, who leads Grand March arm in arm with Mayor Berret (Washington). Douglas escorts Mrs. Lincoln and dances quadrille with her. President returns to White House at 1 A.M.; Mrs. Lincoln remains at ball. Later recalls: "The first thing that was handed to me after I entered this room, when I came from the inauguration was the letter from Maj. Anderson saying that their provisions would be exhausted before an expedition could be sent to their relief."

Reaction to the inaugural address was about as expected. Justice John A. Campbell of the Supreme Court, soon to join the Confederacy, called it a “stump speech not an inaugural message” and “incendiary.” The Arkansas True Democrat proclaimed, “If declaring the Union perpetual means coercion, then Lincoln’s inaugural means war!” The Montgomery Weekly Advertiser proclaimed that the address meant “War. War, and nothing less than war, will satisfy the Abolition chief.” The Charleston Mercury: “A more lamentable display of feeble inability to grasp the circumstances of this momentous emergency, could scarcely have been exhibited.” While many in the North applauded, there was dissatisfaction also. The New York Herald said the country is “no Wiser than it was Before.” But the New York Tribune said, “Every word of it has the ring of true metal.”

The new Cabinet had been decided on – Secretary of State, William H. Seward of New York; Secretary of the Treasury, Salmon P. Chase of Ohio; Secretary of War, Simon Cameron of Pennsylvania; Secretary of the Navy, Gideon Welles of Connecticut; Secretary of the Interior, Caleb Blood Smith of Indiana; Postmaster General, Montgomery Blair of Maryland; and Attorney General, Edward Bates of Missouri. Three members, Seward, Chase, and Bates, had been leading candidates for the Republican presidential nomination, and even Cameron and Smith had been vaguely mentioned. The Cabinet represented diverse factions of the new Republican party and diverse opinions on the issues of the day but no Southern representation. Political deals had entered into the appointment of Cameron and Smith.

Confederate Convention in Montgomery adopts the "Stars and Bars" as the nation's flag.

In St Louis the Missouri State Convention, aiming at secession, gathered.

The Confederate Congress confirmed the appointment of Stephen Mallory of Florida as Secretary of the Navy, but only after some discussion as two Florida Congressional representatives objected to the appointment.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00

March 5, 1861 Tuesday
Maj. Anderson’s message of Feb. 28, which arrived at the War Department in Washington on March 4, had presented the Lincoln administration with an immediate crisis. Anderson said that reinforcements probably could not be thrown into Fort Sumter before limited supplies ran out, and that it would take at least 20,000 men to do the job. Holt informs Lincoln that "an expedition has been quietly prepared, and is ready to sail from New York on a few hours notice, for transporting troops and supplies." Lincoln forwards Holt's letter to Commanding General of the U.S. Army Winfield Scott, who quickly responds, "Evacuation seems almost inevitable." The issue would have to be faced, probably within six weeks. Meanwhile, Mr. Lincoln had other problems, including the host of delegations and individuals crying for posts and favors. He did hold his first Cabinet meeting and the Senate committee announces to President that Senate is ready to receive communications. Lincoln sends nominations for cabinet positions to extra session of Senate by private secretary, John G. Nicolay. Receives letter from Sec. William H. Seward who decides to remain in cabinet. Several state delegations, including Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Illinois, and Michigan, call upon Lincoln. President replies to Massachusetts group: "As President, in the administration of the Government, I hope to be man enough not to know one citizen of the United States from another, nor one section from another." President's son, Robert, returns to Harvard College. Horace Greeley and Sen. James W. Grimes (Iowa) have interview with Lincoln on questions of internal policy. President confers at late hour with Seward. Asks Sec. Simon Cameron to appoint "my friend, E. Elmer Ellsworth" to post in War Dept.

Missouri Convention resolves that the protest of St. Louis against coercion be reduced to writing, and a copy be sent to the President of the United States. Resolutions were also adopted informing Georgia Commissioner Luther J. Glenn that Missouri dissented from the position taken by the State of Georgia, and that Missouri refused to join Georgia in secession from the Union.

_________________
Gen Ned Simms
2/XVI Corps/AotT
Blood 'n Guts hisself, a land lovin' pirate. Show me some arty tubes and we'll charge 'em.
VMI Class of '00