Thursday, November 6, 2014

Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood to Allen Hale, William Cochran and Thomas Moorman, August 8, 1863

State Of Iowa, Executive Office,
August 8, 1863.
Messrs. Allen Hale, Wm. Cochran and Thos. Moorman.
South English, Iowa.

Gentlemen: — I have learned with regret the unfortunate occurrence at your place on Saturday last, and also that there is danger of further conflict and disturbance in consequence. I of course cannot determine where the fault is, or who are the parties responsible, but it is very clear that this is a matter to be determined by the court and not by a mob. If it shall turn out that Tally was unlawfully killed, the law must show who is the guilty person, and must inflict the punishment If a mob of his friends are permitted to determine who is guilty, and to inflict punishment, it is just as probable that the innocent will suffer as the guilty. Such proceedings unsettle society and render every man's life and property insecure.

I have sent to the sheriff of Washington county forty stands of arms and ammunition for the same, for you. These arms are intended only and strictly for the defense of your people against any lawless attack on your town by a mob, and for the purpose of aiding the lawful authorities in enforcing the laws and maintaining the public peace. They must not be used for any other purpose, or in any other manner. You must keep your people strictly on the defensive, and clearly within the law. You must not resist the execution of legal process, but must aid in enforcing and executing it. If you are attacked by a mob of rioters and lawless men you will of course defend yourselves.

The public mind is much excited by the acts of mischievous and designing men, and it becomes law abiding and peaceful citizens not to add to this excitement. Act prudently, coolly and lawfully.

I trust the threatened danger may pass over without further disturbance.

I have written the sheriff of your county to act in this matter. Until his arrival I must trust to your judgment and discretion, upon his arrival act under his authority.

Very respectfully,
SAMUEL J. KLRKWOOD.

SOURCE: Henry Warren Lathrop, The Life and Times of Samuel J. Kirkwood, Iowa's War Governor, p. 248-9

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