Friday, August 15, 2014

Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood to Senator James W. Grimes, January 12, 1861


Des Moines, Ia., January 12, 1861.
Hon. James W. Grimes:

Dear Sir: — It really appears to me as though our Southern friends are determined on the destruction of our Government, unless they can change its whole basis and make it a government for the growth and spread of slavery. The real point of controversy is in regard to slavery in the territories. On that point I would be willing to go thus far: Restore the question of slavery in our present territories to the position in which it was placed by the compromise measures of 1850, and before passing the Kansas-Nebraska bill, and admit Kansas as a free state at once. The whole country agreed to do this once, and therefore could do so again. As to future acquisitions of territory, do either one of two things: 1st, Prohibit future acquisitions except by the vote of two thirds of each branch of Congress, or: 2nd, Make the condition of the Territory at the time of its acquisition its permanent condition until admitted as a state.

I think neither of these requires an abandonment of principles, or involves disgrace to either party, North or South.

But at all hazards the Union must be honored; the laws must be enforced. What can I do in the premises? Shall I tender the aid of the State to Mr. Buchanan? Some of our people desire an extra session — I do not. My present intention is not to call an extra session till after the 4th of March. If after that time an extra session be necessary to support the Government, I will so far as in me lies see to it that the last fighting man in the State, and the last dollar in the treasury are devoted to that object, and our people will sustain me. If such aid is required by Mr. Buchanan, it is at his service. Please consult our delegation and write me fully such course as you think best to be pursued.

Very truly,
SAMUEL J. KIRKWOOD.

P. S. — Can anything be done in the way of procuring arms for this State beyond the regular quota for the current year? Cannot an arsenal be established and supplied in some North-western free State?

SOURCE: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 108-9

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