Navarro Co TX -Navarro Express, 1859/60/61/64

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NAVARRO EXPRESS - 1859/60/61/64

Corsicana, Texas

Abstracted by June E. Tuck

Editors: Rev. E. P. Modrall and R. A. Van Horn

R. A. Van Horn - Publisher and Proprietor

By 1861 - Wm. H. Neblett, Editor; R. A. Van Horn, Assoc. Editor

We give notice that our printing office has been moved to the third door above
the old stand on the corner. (Jly. 25, 1861)

With this issue my connection, which has lasted over 18 months, as editor will
cease. In fact, it is the intention of Mr. Van Horn, my associate, who is now
and has ever been the entire owner and publisher of the Express, to suspend
its publication for a time. Necessity compels this course on his part, as it
did heretofore the issuance of a half sheet. (Nov. 21, 1861)

March 3, 1864 - T. W. Garner, Editor - J. C. Trimble, Publisher



Navarro county was created in 1848; was named after Gen. Antonio Navarro, and
her county site, Corsicana, was named after his birth place - being a
prolongation of Corsica. It is bounded on the east by the Trinity river and is
watered by Chambers’, Richland, Pin Oak, and other large creeks: besides
numerous smaller ones, most of which run entirely through the county, in an
easterly and south-easterly direction to the Trinity. It is about three-
fourths prairie and one-fourth timber. The county contains about 5000
inhabitants, of whom about 2000 are negroes. Several small towns, scattered
throughout the county, afford convenience and trading facilities to almost
every settlement - Taos, Chatfield, Dresden, Spring Hill, Rush Creek,
Chamber’s Creek, and Mount Pisgah, all boast of good stores. The principal
productions of this county are wheat, rye, corn and cotton. Stock raising is
carried to such an extent that there is, probably, not a county in the State
that can equal it in regard to the number and value of horses and cattle.
Sheep are also extensively raised. (Jan. 14, 1860)

Corsicana has improved more in the last twelve months, than for several years
before. Besides the new courthouse quite a number of dwellings and other
buildings have been reared - most of them of better class than those of former
days. Our merchants are receiving large stocks of fall and winter goods.
Recently we have had erected two ten pin alleys. No doubt those who erected
them, and those who enjoy or employ themselves in them, have a right to do so
according to the laws of Church and State.( Nov. 17, 1859)

Tormentors - Corsicana is a very pleasant place to live and in the main, we
have an excellent community, save one class, we mean the fleas. Talk about the
plagues of Egypt, and the horrors of the Spanish Inquisition; but above all,
preserve us from the Fleas! Why they are worse than cannibals. They won’t
sleep at night like honest folks should, but are constantly jumping up and
down, dancing hornpipes and the like, and you never can tell when they will
bite; but when they do bite, you know it, and no mistake. Now your quiet court
of fleas is tolerable, but our’s have the fidgets, and can’t be still. But
where do they come from. There are not more than two or three hundred mangy
pigs about town, and surely those who are compelled to eat beef three quarters
of the year, out to be permitted to look a pig in the race now and then,
though it may not be in eating order. Come from the dogs, did you say? Reckon
not. Why it is our candid opinion that there are not exceeding eleven hundred
dogs - big and little - about town. Quite reasonable, especially as this is
the only species of property not taxable. We close our chapter on fleas with a
quotation from the King of scared poets - "Thy worry whom they can’t devour,
with a malicious joy." (Nov. 26, 1859)

On the 15th inst. 81 free colored persons sailed from New Orleans for Hayti.
They all came from the Opelousas parishes, and are farmers, mechanics, and
weavers of the staff called Attakapas cottonade. They take with them the
necessary implements for the pursuit of their respective trades. One of the 14
families included in this emigration is worth fifty thousand dollars, and they
all intend investing what property they possess in Hayti. ( Feb. 18, 1860)

A new town site on ten acres of land that would be donated by R. T. Patton,
was the topic of a town meeting called, with citizens from Tahuacana, Caney,
and Richland Creeks on the 17th. Inst. G. B. Coleman was appointed chairman,
and W. T. Patten secretary, and on motion, Flowerdale was unanimously elected
as a site for the town. On motion, Joseph Andrews, G. W. Dunagan, W. T.
Patton, Wm. M. Hines, and Isaac Bird was appointed a committee on resolutions.
The land was situated within 1/4 of a mile of R. T. Patton’s residence, in
Freestone county, near the road leading from Fairfield to Corsicana - 14 miles
from the former, and 18 miles from the latter place, to be styled Flowerdale.
Resolutions were passed and a committee was elected - Rev. T. J. Bonner,
Joseph Andrews, G. B. Colman, W. T. Patten, G. W. Dunagan, Oliver Burleson, W.
W. Coleman, Wm. M. Hines, C. G. Dunagan, and David Burleson. (Mar. 24, 1860)

Letter from Chatfield, Texas, March26, 1860. (Edited) Messrs Editors, Seeing
your request in the Express for a few lines from each postmaster, I will
attempt to do so. Our little village is in thriving condition. Bell & Jeffers
have got their mill under head way, and are grinding corn and wheat. They,
however, have yet to grind wheat on their corn stones, not having got their
flouring stones up yet. Messrs. Robertson and Westbrook has during the last 12
months, have sold about $20,000 worth of goods. Messrs. Crawford & Porter, the
proprietors of the Cabinet and Wagon Shop, are doing good business. Esquire B.
F. Listman, is also doing a splendid business, he has just erected a neat shop
- a side room on each side, one occupied as his office, and the other by Mr.
S. J. Norvell, our village gunsmith. Dr. Pitts, a young gentleman of the
Medical Class, has located in our midst. By this time next year, Chatfield
will present to the passers by a different view. Mr. Petty, a citizen of our
county, contemplates building a Family Grocery store house this springs. Mr.
E. S. Bell also speaks of building a two story store house, ready for a fall
stock There are also several family residences under consideration. The
Masonic & Odd Fellows Institute is doing tolerable well. The male department
is governed by Rev. W. H. Stokes, and the female department is governed by
Miss Stanhour, a young lady of beautiful qualifications. Mr. L. L. Bartlett is
gone to New Orleans to lay in his Spring stock of dry goods. As I’m out of
soap, and can’t get any more I will bid you good bye for the present. Gray
(Ap. 7, 1860)

Four Hundred head of fine French and Spanish Merino sheep passed through our
town last Wednesday on their way to Gonzales county. Some of our citizens
endeavored to purchase but did not. Ewes were $16. a head, and Bucks were from
$16. to $50. a head.(Ap. 7, 1860)

The stage line running from Navasota through this place to Waxahachie, owned
by Col. Grant, has been purchased and is now run by Sawyer, Richter & Co. (Ap.
28, 1860)

The First Annual Fair - of the Navarro County Agricultural and Mechanical
Assoc., will be held on Tuesday the 16th, Wed. the 17th, and Thurs. the 18th
of next October, near Corsicana. Every effort will be made to entertain
agreeably and promote the interest of the Fair and Association to the greatest
possible extent. J. B. Jones, secretary (Aug. 31, 1860)

Wagons are daily passing through here on their way to Houston for the fall
goods for the upper counties. We notice that they nearly all go down empty, an
indication of short crops. ( Sept. 21, 1860)

James Persons, L. (D?) Powell and F. N. Brooks, are a committee appointed for
the purpose of letting out the contract to the lowest bidder to build a bridge
at the Powell crossing on Chamber’s creek. (Sept, 21, 1860)

During the past week we took a trip to our neighboring town, Waco. We were
very agreeably disappointed at the appearance of that place. (sic) It is much
larger, has better buildings, and is doing more business than we had reason to
suppose. We called on Mr. Shook of the "Democrat", and found him hard at work,
as usual. His power pres is up and we presume will print his next issue. We
also visited the office of the "South West" and had a long chat with the
publisher, Mr. Nimmo. Mr. Parsons, the editor, we did not see. We were
informed that the type for the "South West" was expected daily. The press, one
of Taylor’s power presses, was ready for work. We think this will be one of
the leading papers of the State. It will be issued in a week or two. On the
road we enjoyed the hospitality of Mr. Richey, Esq., and Brit Dawson. Mr.
Dawson, who lives on the Houston and Dallas roads, has built an elegant two-
story house, which is really an ornament to the county. Mr. Richey lives 25
miles from this place, on the Waco road, and knows how to take care of both
traveler and horse. Stop with him by all means when you pass that way. Capt.
Ross was in Waco during our stay, endeavoring to make up a company of Rangers.
Parties desiring to enlist should apply immediately. ( Sept. 28, 1860)

Last week we attended a meeting of the Hill County Stray Stock Association, at
Hillsboro. The meeting was presided over by the President, Dr. Scofield, and
the Secretary’s chair was occupied by Wm. Veal, Esq., a member of the
Hillsboro bar. The meeting was addressed by D. Bridenthal, Esq., a gentleman
who occupies the front rank among the legal fraternity of Texas, and by Col.
Henry Jones, of this county. We also met W. L. Booth, a sound lawyer and good
Democrat. We stopped at Col. Hardin’s Hotel and found it all that a tired
traveler could desire. Plenty of "chicken fixings and flour doins," and plenty
of horse feed. From Hillsboro we continued our trip to the residence of Mr. H.
W. Ward, ten miles from town, where we passed the night, and to whom, and his
excellent lady, we returned thanks for the kind hospitalities extended us.
From hence we journeyed to the tank on Pin Oak, to attend a meeting of the
Navasoto Stray Stock Association, where we met a goodly number of stock
raisers. Here we met our friend Caldwell, of the "Pioneer", who is even better
looking than ever, for he now sports an extensive moustache and whiskers. He
informed us that he would commence the publication of his monthly Stock
Journal this week. (Oct. 5, 1860)

On the 20th ult., in company of friends, we visited for the first time the
flourishing village of Chatfield, situated ten miles northeast of this place,
in a rich and thickly settled section of country. We put up with Capt. Hodge.
The Captain is putting up a large hotel for the accommodation of the public.
B. F. Lisman, Esq., conducted us around and initiated us somewhat into the
mysteries of the place. E. S. Bell & Co. have a first class steam mill, where
they are now turning out number one flour and meal in abundance, flour at
$6.50 per hundred, and meal at $1.50 per bushel. W. B. Crawford has a wood and
black smithing establishment, with a steam engine to assist him in his work,
where he is turning out furniture, buggies, wagons, etc. The finest painted
Texas made buggies we have ever seen came from this establishment. Near Mr.
Crawford’s, Mr. B. F. Lisman has his blacksmith shop, where he keeps two fires
going all the time. The mercantile wants of that section are supplied by L. L.
Barlett, Lynn & Co., and E. S. Bell & Co., who have a store in connection with
their mill. Late in the afternoon L. T. Wheeler, Esq., was called upon for a
speech, which he did on advocating secession and the rights of the South.
After supper we attended the ball given by the Odd Fellows and Masons at their
Hall. (Jan. 2, 1861)

We learn that W. R. House, Esq. has laid off a town near Cummins’ Creek post
office, Ellis county, on the road from here to Waxahachie, which has been
named Burnham. The lots will be sold at auction on the 22nd day of March next.
They already have two stores, a blacksmith shop, etc. ( Feb. 13, 1861)

In company with a friend we, last Saturday, made a short visit to Fairfield,
31 1/4 miles from this place, by the lower road. We noticed along the road,
new farms being opened by new comers, and fine dwellings being erected by the
older settlers; among which might be enumerated the new residence of Thos.
Meador, Esq., who has erected a neat frame building just this side of Richland
Creek, and the fine two-story house of Col. Jos. Burleson, recently built on
the opposite side of the Creek, in this county. Scarcely a mile from Col.
Burleson’s, Mr. Byrd has put up a commodious frame store house, and put into
it a large stock of good, amounting to some $30,000. worth we were informed -
where a good many of the citizens of the lower part of the county do their
trading in preference to coming to town. At this place (which we believe is
called Byrdville), some sixty or seventy men had collected for the purpose of
forming themselves into a military company. As we returned the next day we
learned that they had succeeded in doing so, styling themselves the Richland
Invincibles, and electing as Captain, Mr. Bonham; First Lieutenant, Dr.
Felder; Second Lieutenant Gus Burleson; Third Lieutenant, Mr. McGilbry;
Orderly Sergeant, Richard McConico. Upon our arrival at Fairfield, we visited
the "Pioneer" office, and found Caldwell & Anderson "fat and saucy," with more
work than they could do, which accounts for our getting their paper so
irregularly. Anderson looks like he wanted to marry, but we’ll bet a section
of ginger bread that if he finds a girl willing he’ll back out. C. H. Johns,
one of the best tinners in the State, whose work shop - a two story building -
was blown down in a storm last year, has built a very nice house on the old
site. We put up at Marsh’s Hotel, and fared as well as the law allows a man to
in this country. Fairfield can boast of one of the handsomest courthouses in
the state, the yard of which has been very tastefully enclosed by a neat
railing, which is decidedly an improvement to the square. We would suggest
that the pond on the northwest corner of the square be filled up. The fine
college built here some time ago by subscription, was sold recently by the
sheriff for money due the contractors. It cost originally some $12,000. or
$15,000. And brought $5,000. It was purchased by Rev. H. L. Graves, who has
been conducting a female school in this building for some two or three years.
Many handsome dwelling houses adorn the suburbs of this place. ( Mar. 20,
1861)

We have been shown a specimen of Texas salt, from Jordan’s Saline, about
eighty miles east of this place. It is as fine as the best table salt, and is
fully equal, if not superior, to any salt imported. Mr. D. Weaver brought two
wagon loads over, which is for sale at Michael’s at $8.50 sack. It is sold at
the Saline for $5.00 a sack. ( Aug. 15, 1861)





BUSINESSES - ETC.

Corsicana Female Institute - Rev. Henry L. Graves - President

Corsicana Male Seminary - H. R. Molloy, superintendent

Masonic and Odd Fellows Male and Female High School - Rev. Wm. H. Stokes,
Principal, and Miss Mary A, Stenhour, Assist. Principal. Located at
Chatfield’s Point

Wm. M. Love & Co - Dry Goods, Groceries, etc.

Williamson Hotel

McPhaill Hotel

Dr. D. G. Kerr -

James Tally - Wholesale and retail grocer and dealer in produce.

Wm. R. Mitchell - Attorney-At- Law and General Land Agent

J. C. Winch - Attorney and Counselor-At-Law

Winkler & Sweatman - Attorneys-At-Law

W. H. Neblett - Attorney-At-Law

Croft & Wheeler - Wm. Croft and L. T. Wheeler - Attorneys and Counselors at
Law

Mills & Beaton - R. Q. Mills and Alexander Beaton - Attorneys-At-Law

J. L. Halbert - Attorney-At -Law

Samuel H. Kerr - Carriage Manufactory - Buggies and wagons to order. Shop on
the east corner of the public square

Messrs. Harlan, Baker & Co. - Steam mill, situated in town, will be up for
sale Jan. 3, 1860.

H. C. Moss & Co. - Dry Goods and Family Groceries

T. N. Carter - Druggist

A. Mitchell & Bro. - Alex Mitchell and Jacob Mitchell - Staple and fancy dry
goods

C. Davidson & Bro. - Fancy and staple dry goods - Fancy groceries- Sold this
business in March 1860

Dr. N. M Mills - Office on the East side of the public square

H. W. Tate - Groceries

T. W. Garner - Watchmaker and Jeweler

T. J. Wickem - Tailor shop

J. T. Oaks - Gunsmith

J. A. Oakes - Dry Goods - Ready Made Clothing

Marah’s Hotel & Livery Stable, formerly known as the Walker House - Fairfield,
Texas

C. H. Johns - Copper, Tin, and Sheet Iron Works - Fairfield, Texas

Coffee House Saloon and Bowling Alley - North side of the square - D. Wood has
opened a Drinking Saloon and bowling Alley, and also keeps family groceries.

DEATHS

On Tuesday afternoon of last week, Ishmael H. Burrow, son of Elias Burrow of
this place, was with his little brother on a sled to which he had harnessed a
pony, when he struck the horse with his whip, which, kicking back, struck him
on the stomach and caused his death in a few minutes. The boy was some 15 or
16 years old., and seemed not to know the meaning of fear. Let the youth of
the county take warning. (Nov. 17, 1859)

Major R. S. Neighbors, who was an Indian Agent, and who had just returned from
moving the Indians across the Red River, was killed at Fort Belknap by a man
by the name of Cornet. We have not learned the particulars, but it seems to
have been a cold blooded murder. (Nov. 17, 1859)

We forgot to notice in our last issue that Mr. Ed Abbey, son of Col. J. W.
Abbey, who we announced as having been shot by Mr. Paige, his brother-in-law,
died in ten minutes after he was shot. He snapped all the caps of his six-
shooter at Mr. Paige after receiving the death wound. Mr. Paige was afterwards
examined before justice Clements, and held to bail in the sum of $800. (Mar.
3, 1860)

We learn of regret the E. P. Baker, Esq., an old and much esteemed citizen of
this place, died in Kentucky a shot time since, while on a visit to his
relative. He leaves a family and numerous friends here to mourn his loss. (
Navarro Express, May 19, 1860)

Mr. George Williams was killed in Belton recently by a gambler named Wm.
Garrett, so says the Belton Democrat. (June 30, 1860)

Emma Lou Powers, age 1 yr, 6 mos. and 22 days, the daughter of Mr. W. K. and
Mrs. F. E. Powers, died Aug. 28, 1860. (Navarro Express, Aug. 31, 1860)

We are pleased to welcome our old friend and former fellow citizen B. L. Ham,
of Jack county, who is now on a visit to this place on business. He brings the
sad intelligence of the killing of Wm. L. Browning’s two sons, near the
southern line of Young county, by twelve Indians recently, who surrounded them
until they fired all their six shooters, when they closed in on them and
killed them with their arrows. The names of the deceased were Joseph and
Franklin. One of them, after being shot three times, eluded the Indians by the
swiftness of his horse, and managed to reach home before he died. He stated
that the Indians belonged to the Reserve, which only confirms the general
belief that it is the Reserve Indians who are doing the mischief in that
region. (June 30, 1860)

We learn with regret that J. O. Shook, Esq., of "Waco Democrat" was killed in
that place last week by a printer recently in his employ named Tom McCardel.
Mr. Shook was one of the most industrious and enterprising printers we ever
knew. He leaves a large family who were dependent upon his exertions for a
support. The following particulars of the unfortunate act we learn from a
stranger who passed through Waco a few days afterwards. We give it without
vouching for its corrections: A son of Mr. Shook, some 5 or 6 years old, stole
some money from McCardel. Shook learning the facts paid the money back and
requested McCardel not to mention the circumstances to any one; but not
wishing to gratify Mr. Shook, he told it to a number of persons around town.
When Mr. Shook, hearing of it, published the following in his paper, the Waco
Democrat: "Bad Egg - The villain who could find it in his heart to slip or
sneak around and willfully belie and slander a little boy of 5 or 6 years of
age, is a low-bread contemptible scoundrel, and deserves to be kicked out of
society, and closely watched - for he would steal chickens from their roost at
the dead hour of the night. The cowardly dog to whom we allude, will
understand this, no doubt." As soon as McCardel saw the article, he loaded a
six-shooter repaired at once to the printing office, asked Mr. Shook if he was
the author of it, and without giving him time to reply, shot him through the
breast. He fell and expired instantly. McCardel was arrested and lodged in
jail, around which a guard was placed to prevent the citizens from lynching
him. (Navarro Express, Nov. 2, 1860, Corsicana)

Mary Izadora Erwin, infant daughter of John F. & Matilda N. Erwin, died on the
5th inst. at the residence of Col. Pillow, in the vicinity of this place. She
was born June 6, 1860. ( Navarro Express, Nov. 9, 1860, Corsicana)

Lucy Edwards (Henderson,), aged 11 mos., 12 days, died on Wed. the 21st ult.,
the infant daughter of Col. Wm. F. and Louisa Henderson. (Aug. 8, 1861)

Charles W. Pennington, Esq., 2nd Sgt. of Capt. Winkler’s "Navarro Rifles,"
died at Decatur, Alabama, on the 15th September, 1861, while on his way to the
seat of the war in Virginia. ( Oct. 10, 1861) Later reported he died from
bilious fever.

Mr. James Persons, died at his residence on Rush Creek, in this county, on the
7th inst., of pneumonia. (Oct. 17, 1861)

Dr. R. M. Phillips, died at the residence of Mr. James Persons, on Rush Creek,
in this county, on the 11th inst. of pneumonia. (Oct. 17, 1861)

Mrs. Olive Green, consort of Mr. A. Green, died at her residence on Cummins
Creek in this county, on the 11th inst. (Oct. 17, 1861)

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE and ADMINISTRATOR’S SALE


Wm. Spurlin, dec’d - B. F. Fuller, executor - Eleanor Spurlin, executrix (Oct.
Term 1859) Later reported he had 15 slaves to be sold on Dec. 15, 1859. Also
reported of one runaway slave from estate named Surry, age about 45 or 50
years old.

To be sold from the estate of B. J. Fortson, dec’d, a negro woman named Nicy,
and her child four years old. W. B. Pillows, Adm. ( Jan. 28, 1860)

Edward Abbey, dec’d, - J. W. Abbey, Adm’r of estate (May 26, 1860)

Elijah P. Baker, dec’d, - John M. Bright, and Priscilla J. Baker, were made
Adm’rs of the estate, May Term of Court 1860.

Axum Dunn, dec’d, - Temple Spivey was made Adm., Feb. Term of Court 1861

John M. Leetch, dec’d, - R. G. Leetch was made Adm. May Term of Court 1861

G. W. Hill, dec’d - R. H. Matthews was made Adm. of estate at June Term of
Court 1861

A. M. Dunn, dec’d - Thos A. Jordan and Ellen C. Jordan appointed
Administrators, Feb. Term of court 1864.

F. N. Brooks, dec’d - James Kerr Adm., has filed his final application for a
final settlement and discharge from said administration. March 7, 1864

James and Sarah D. Wilson, dec’d - John P. Anderson appointed Administrator
May Term 1864

G. L. Martin, dec’d - Dan Donaldson and J. R. Loughridge appointed
Administrators August Term of court, 1864

William Wilson, dec’d - Abner Simmons appointed Administrator Sept. Term of
court 1864



FIRES

The store house filled with goods belonging to A. M. Byers was burned on the
8th inst. at Mount Pisgah, in this county. We understand nothing was saved but
a trunk and some of his books, which was considerably injured by the fire. (
Jly. 14, 1860)

The house of John Morrell, Esq., at Dresden, was set on fire last Sunday
morning, 19th inst., just before day break, by some scoundrel. The fire was
discovered immediately under the eves before it had made much progress, but
before efforts to extinguish it could be made, the house was wrapped in
flames. Almost the entire contents of the building was destroyed. It is to be
hoped that ere long the perpetrator of this damnable act may be swung up to
the limb of a post oak. It is an excellent plan to rid our country of such
characters, and the only sure one. Let us put it in practice. A little more
watchfulness and promptness would surely enable our citizens to discover who
theses incendiaries are. Some time since a school teacher by the name of Ray
was requested by the citizens of and near Dresden to leave, for uttering
Abolition sentiments. This probably is the clue to the burning of Mr.
Morrell’s house. In this place a Vigilance Committee has been organized for a
month past, and a strong patrol kept up with unremitting watchfulness. (Aug.
25, 1860)

Last Sunday morning the steam mill of Messrs. Bell & Robinson, at Chatfield,
in this county, was entirely consumed by fire. From appearance, then first
discovered, it is supposed to have been set on fire in the bolting chest, a
shot time before day. Los about $10,000. (Jly. 25, 1861)


MILITARY

We understand from Gen. L. T. Wheeler, of this place, that he has received
orders from Gen. Houston to proceed to an organization of the militia of the
district of which this county forms a part. We would like to know why this has
not been done long since. Also reported - A movement is on foot here to
organize a military company to be armed by private subscription with Halls’
breech loading guns. A great deal of enthusiasm prevails, and the project will
be carried through. It is high time the South is taking some steps for
protection. (Nov. 2, 1860)

Week before last we urged the propriety of the military companies now being
formed throughout the State uniforming themselves in home made jeans. Las
Monday our enterprising friend, Wm. T. Patton, of Flowerdale, Freestone
county, orderly sergeant in a new company organized in that neighborhood
called the Prairie Wake Ups, called on us dressed in the uniform of said
company. It consists of a frock coat and pants made of home made jeans, with
red and white worsted stripes on the breast and legs. It looked neat and
comfortable. (Dec. 7, 1860)

A military company was formed in this place last Saturday. The officers
elected are as follows: W. W. McPhaill, Captain; H. D. Garden, First
Lieutenant; W. A. Lockhart, Second Lieutenant; Thos. J. Haynes, Orderly
Sargent. ( Dec. 21, 1860)

The attempt to perfect the organization of a company here last Saturday was a
perfect failure, not more than a dozen being present who were willing to
participate in the "pomp and circumstance of war." We hear it intimated that
the young ladies of this vicinity are taking steps to organize themselves into
a military company for home protection, feeling that there is no reliance to
be placed on the sterner sex in the dark days now threatening. (Mar. 6, 1861)

Feb. 22, 1861 - Messrs Editors: Please publish the enclosed circular, the
object of which is to have every man prepared for the service who wishes to
enter for 12 months, if not soon discharge. The Federal troops are now
abandoning the frontier posts and their places must be occupied by those of
Texas as soon as possible. Your obedient servant, Ben McCulloch, Col.
Commanding. CIRCULAR - Our frontier must protected. Let it not be said that
Texas cannot defend herself as she did in the days of the Republic. Two
regiments of Rangers will drive the Indians from our borders and make them beg
for peace. I have not power to call men into the filed for this purpose. The
convention will no doubt do so as soon as it assembles. Let the gallant young
men of Texas respond to the call. A good horse, a Colt’s pistol, and a light
rifle or double barreled shot gun that can be used on horseback, are the best
arms for such service. The Comanches will know "The Ranger is at home on the
prairie" again. Ben McCulloch, Col. commanding (Mar. 6, 1861)

The following have made donations to the Corsicana Mounted Rifle Company; C.
L. Jernigan, one saddle; J. A. Oakes, two horses; D. Wood, one horse; H. C.
Moss, one horse, saddle and bridle; J. W. Townsend, four horses; E. W. Burrow,
two horses; C. J. Lochhart, one horse; Dr. James Croom, one gun. (May 8, 1861)

A Rifle Infantry company has been organized here.

Officers elected - C. M. Winkler, Capt.; H. D. Garden, 1st Lieut.; J. A.
Lawson, 2nd Lieut.; R. J. Marshall, 3rd Lieut.; J. H Hayes, 1st Sgt.; G. S.
Boynton, 2nd Sgt.; C. W. Ward, 3rd Sgt.; S. M. Biggs, 4th Sgt.; W. D. Hayes,
1st Corporal; G. W. Sharp, 2nd Corporal; Z. J. Smith, 3rd Corporal; T. A.
Eford, 4th Corporal

Members of the company:

J. R. Williamson, J. R. Loughridge, A. J. Brewster, Wm. Foster, D. M. Walker,
M. B. Turrentine, S. Well, L. W. Trimble, Wm. Murray, Geo Richardson, J.
Michael, W. H. Mitchell, J. T. Spence, V. A. Cunningham, J. C. Winch;, J. A.
Shelton, J. Beaseley, D. C. Dunn, J. W. Simmons, J. H. Astin (sic), A.
Woodward, S. J. Norval, J. D. Cozby, J. B. Landham, E. R. Riley, N. J. Mills,
F. E. Witherspoon, S. A. Pace, R. G. Sands, B. F. Hunt, Mat Beaseley, J. Gage,
J. H. Guinn, J. T. Green, J. W. Douthett, C. W. Pennington, R. W. Bonner, J.
W. May, M. D. J. Rushing, J. N. Stroder, W. E. Rebuck, R. L. Freman, John
Duren, Geo. Foster, G. W. Parker, W. G. Jackson, G. W. Westbrook, J. H..
Westbrook, C. W. Limbecker, W. T. Purnell, W. H. Tucker, Dr. Thos W. Ward,
John Crabtree. There are only two or three that have families, the balance are
single young men. (May 8, 1861) Later reported - Now had 103 men. A second
election of officers were made as follows: Capt. C. M.. Winkler, 1st Lieut. J.
R. Loughridge, 2nd Lieut. J. R. Ogilvie, 3rd Lieut. B. J. C. Hill, 1st Sgt.
Mat Beaseley, 2nd Sgt. C. W. Pennington, 3rd Sgt. J. M. Cassady, 4th Sgt. W.
G. Jackson, 1st Corp. John Beaseley, 2nd Corp. Robert Wright, 3rd Corp. James
Boydston, 4th Corp. Jos. D. Stewart. Some members becoming dissatisfied with
the management of affairs, and fearing that the company would not be called
into active service soon, withdrew from it, and are now forming a company to
proceed to Montgomery forthwith, to tender their services to President Davis
for service in Virginia.

On Monday last a beautiful banner was presented by the ladies of this town,
through Col. Winkler to the Corsicana Invincibles who left in the afternoon
for Montgomery, Ala., to tender their services to the Government. The flag was
received on the part of the company by H. D. Garden, Esq. The name of the
gallant little band are as follows: M. B. Turrentine, R. J. Marshall, W. T.
Purnell, J. A. Lawson, V. A. Cunningham, H. D. Garden, W. D. Haynes, C. W.
Word, J. H. Hayes, D. M. Walker, J. A. Shelton, L. W. Trimble, J. T. Longino
T. A. Elford, W. F. Woodard. Dave Dunn, Wm. Murray, R. G. Sands.

A squad of gallant gentlemen left here last Thursday evening for Missouri. The
only names we have are Col. Wm. F. Henderson, Robt. Prichett and Mr. Younger.
( Aug. 1, 1861)

LIST OF MEMBERS OF THE NAVARRO RIFLES - Editors Express: We send you, by
request a list of the Navarro Rifles. You will please insert the same in your
paper - the name and nativity:

Capt. C. M. Winkler, N. C. - 1st Lieut J. R. Loughridge, S. C. - 2nd Lieut. J.
R. Ogilvie, Tenn. - 3rd Lieut. B. J. C. Hill, Tenn. - 1st Sgt. Mat. Beaseley,
Miss. - 2nd Sgt. C. W. Pennington, Commissary, Va. - 3rd. Sgt. J. M. Cassady,
Ky. - 4th Sgt. Wm. G. Jackson, Texas - 1st. Cpl. J. T. Beaseley, Miss. - 4th
Cpl. J. D. Stewart, Ga.- Fifer, J. E. Melton, Ga. - Drummer, J. L. Utzman,
Tenn.

PRIVATES - J. W. Duren, Miss. - H. Harrison, Miss. - J. W. Simmons, N. C. - J.
A. Astin, Ala. - R. C. Armstrong, Tenn. - J. B. Lanhm, La. - J. R. Beaseley,
Miss. - W. G. Platt, Miss. - J. W. McMorris, Ala. - B. F. Harper, Miss - J. T.
Green, Miss - J. W. Crabtree, Mo. - P. Smith, Ala. - A. M. Lemmon, Mo. - T. L.
Purseley, Ark. - J. H. Hill, Tenn. - J. D. Caddel, Ala. - J. W. Westbrook,
Miss. - R. H. Wade, Ellis Co., Texas, Ky (sic) - J. H. Barnett, Ala. - S.
Weil, Germany - John Holdeman, Tenn. - James Herbert, Tenn. - J. M. Polk, Mo.
- J. J. Harrison, Ala. - W. M. Templeton, Ala. - Wm. H. Mitchell, Tenn. - J.
A. Foster, Va. - T. R. Morris, Tenn. - M. H. Welch, Mo. - A. N. Templeton,
Ala. - G. W. Foster, Va. - J. H. Westbrook, Miss. - A. L. Meador, Texas - H.
L. W. Killian, Tenn - James H. Treadwell, Ala. - Jack Hill, Tenn. - J. C.
Welch, Texas - Thos. Alfin, Ala. - T. J. Sessions, Miss. - Ira Duncan, Tenn. -
W. R. Jefferson, Freestone Co. - W. A. Fondren, Young Co., Texas, Miss - R. H.
Miller, Mo. - J. B. Owens, Ala. - R. N. Rice, Ga. - Joseph Hagle, Germany - E.
S. Crabb, Ind. - James H. Massey, Mo. - James Franklin, Kty - Charles Turpin,
Kty. - James Fagin, Tenn. - G. W. Henderson, Ill. - J. Q. Harris, Ba. - L. W.
Rice, Ga. - E. M. Garner, Ala. - Dr. N. J. Mills, Kty - S. M. Riggs, Mo. - R.
G. Holloway, Va. - W. C. Towers, Ga. - W. W. Fuller, N. C. - M. Barry, N. C. -
S. B. Terrel, S. C. - J. H. Neal, Miss. - B. F. Childress, Ala. - P. H.
Osborne, Ala. - J. L. Anderson, Ark. - M. L. Foster, Texas - T. A. Osborne,
Ala. - Ira C. Jordan, Miss. - Ambrose Barry, N. C. - E. G. Sessions, Miss. -
S. H. Neal, Miss. - John Green, Kty - J. C. Walker, Kty - A. J. Brewater, Ill.
- W. H. Bales, Nacogdoches Co., Texas - G. S. Boynton, Ohio - John Pickett,
Ala. - Wm. T. Smith, (Hill Co.) Tenn. - F. P. Dillard, Va. - T. M. Lummis,
(Limestone Co.) Ala. - H. E. Walker, Texas - T. P. Spence, (Robinson Co.) Ill.
(Aug. 8, 1861)

The Militia of this beat was organized last Saturday by the election of
officers. The company in town elected T. J. Hayes, Capt; J. L. Halbert, 1st
Lieut.; Dan Donaldson, 2nd. Lieut.; L. J. Thomas, 3rd Lieut. This company
meets in town next Saturday week. The other Company met at Pugh’s tank and
elected Elijah Bishop, Capt.; John Bishop, 1st Lieut.; Ike Story, 2nd Lieut.;
Jesse Roberts, 3rd Lieut. They meet for drill Saturday two weeks, 31st inst. (
Aug. 15, 1861)

LETTERS

Camp Pulaski, June 14, 1861 - To Eds. Navarro Express: I have only time to
inform you and your readers that we, the Corsicana Invincibles, have connected
our selves with the "Marshall Guards" - Texas Battalion; that it is the finest
company I have seen; that we are all well pleased, in good health and spirits;
that we leave for Virginia next Tuesday, expecting there to be mounted; and
that those who wish to act a part in this grand drama, will find no difficulty
in doing so be attaching themselves to other companies. Garden has assurance
of a commission in the army; he is now on his way to Richmond. More from me
when time will permit. W. T. Purnell ( Navarro Express, Jly. 3, 1861)

Monday, June 17, 10 a.m. Eds. Navarro Express:

We are now on the cars, en route for Richmond; and as we are awaiting the 11
o’clock train I snatch a few moments to inform you that the Corsicana boys are
all well and fine spirits, and feel confident that they will do honor to
themselves, their county, and the generous and kind-hearted people whom they
represent. The "Star Rifles," of Cass County, and the "Crescent Blues," of New
Orleans, leave by the same train. You shall hear more from me when we arrive
at our place of destination. R. J. M. ( Navarro Express, Jly. 3, 1861)

(Edited) For the Navarro Express. Letters from the Invincibles

Camp Instruction, Richmond, Va. - July 5, 1861

Ed. Navarro Express - Dear Sirs: We left Camp Pulaski on Monday, the 18th
ult., and via Jackson, Canton, Grand Junction, Chattanooga, and Knoxville,
arrived in Lynchburg on the 23rd, and there encamped till the following
Monday, and left for this place, where we arrived the following morning at
nine o’clock. We are much more comfortably situated now than at any time since
we left home. We have plenty to eat, water is near and abundant, and most of
our messes have negroes here to cook and bring water; a library of ample size,
and full of interesting books is provided for us. There are music and parades.
Our duties are to be at roll call twice a day, 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., and to drill
about three hours each day. The balance of the time we spend as we please,
unless we happen to be on special duty, which does not happen very often. The
prospect for the future is promising too - we are assured of the first chance
after we are drilled. We are expecting orders to move now every day. I would
like to give you information of the strength of the army in this State, and
particularly at the important points, but in the first place the number and
movements of our troops are carefully and effectually mystified, so that I
should not, if I would; and then in the second place it is plainly my duty not
to circulate anything that may be of advantage to the enemy if it should reach
him. President Davis and Gen. Lee are both in this city. The President visits
our camp every few days: he is very spare built and thin visaged: his face is
full of determination. I could see nothing remarkably portrayed in it.
Enthusiasm prevails every where we have been. All along the road banners are
flying, handkerchiefs waving, and words of encouragement spoken to the
soldier. Men, women, children, and negroes, all participate in the
demonstration. The women are sewing for the army. They occupy nearly all the
public buildings in this city, churches not excepted. Virginia is
manufacturing arms, too, in this city; 100 men are employed in manufacturing
shot and shell, and in casting, finishing, and rifling cannon. Some 3 or 4
more men and women are employed in manufacturing and improving small arms,
making cartridges, etc. I have taken much pains since I arrived here to find
out the situation and disposition of Maryland. Armed soldiers are stationed
everywhere in their midst; no citizen is allowed to have arms; suspected
persons are seized and imprisoned; no respect is paid to the laws of the
State, to persons of property; old age is subject to insult and injury. There
are now 7,000 to 8,000 Maryland troops now in this State, and coming ever day.
They have much difficulty attends their getting out of the State. One company
here lost some men in crossing the Potomac; at least they suppose they were
taken there by Federal troops. Col. Thomas, the hero of the steamboat
expedition is here. July 8th, no opportunity to mail up to this date. Col.
Wigfall has accepted the command of our battalion. W. T. Purnell (Navarro
Express, Aug. 1, 1861, Corsicana)

(Edited)New Fair Grounds, Va., July 4, 1861

Editors of the Express: In my brief communication to you from Camp Pulaski, I
stated that I would write you when we reached our place of destination, and it
now affords me pleasure to fulfill that promise.

We reached here on the 23 ult., after a week of fatiguing travel. We were on
open cars, with cushioned seats, cushioned with our blankets, and were
necessarily exposed to many inconveniences and the greatest quantity of dust.
Ever city and town through which we passed; every wayside and path by the
woodside, was thronged with men, women and children, all cheering and bidding
us God speed. Business in the cities is dull. There are several regiments in
the encampment under drill. Troops are coming in and leaving daily. From
morning till night there is one continual drill. We do not suffer at all fro
the want of exercise. Dress parade takes place at 6 p.m., and then the grounds
are thronged with the beautiful fair. The different companies present quite a
splendid appearance. The Baltimore Zouaves, who repulsed the 7th Massachusetts
Regiment, are here. They are the best drilled company within the grounds. The
presentation of a beautiful flag, made by the noble and patriotic ladies of
Baltimore, took place last evening at the time of dress parade. The flag was
presented by President Davis in a brief but appropriate speech, and was
responded to by Captain ____. The flag was very expressive, and as I gazed
upon it I saw poor old Maryland represented only by the outlines of a star yet
to be filled up, a tear involuntarily came to my eyes. The ladies of the South
are ever ready to lend a helping hand in this good and righteous cause. There
are two young ladies in the city at this time, guests of Gov. Letcher, who, in
the garb of old women, and with the pretext of having soap for sale, passed
the sentinels, entered the enemy’s camp, found out their strength, discovered
all their plans, and their time of attack, and then at night, alone and
unprotected, rode on horseback forty miles to our camp, and there made known
what they had learned.

Today the Federal Congress meets, and in a very short time we will know what
they intend to do. All are anxiously looking forward to the result. Our
battalion has not as yet been organized. Capt. Bass will probably be appointed
Major of the same. To what place we will be ordered, I am not able to inform
you. All our boys are well. Some of our company have been detached to guard
some vessels at Fredericksburg, which were taken a few days since by the
Baltimore Zouaves, under Col. Thomas. Lubbock is in the city, and with him two
prisoners which were captured by his small but gallant squad of ten. Our
friend Lieut. H. D. Garden is in the city awaiting orders. Texas ( Navarro
Express, Aug. 1, 1861, Corsicana)

(Edited due to length) LETTER FROM THE NAVARRO RIFLES - Millican, July 29,
1861 -

Editors Navarro Express: We arrived here after seven days hot dusty marching,
not withstanding the soldiers were cheerful during the trip, except those who
were sick, which sickness was of mild nature, and all are now improving. A
portion of Capt. W. H. Martin’s company fell in with us day before yesterday.
The Captain will be here today, and we will all leave for Harrisburg at 10
o’clock on tomorrow morning. The Waco Company is in advance of us, like wise
the Robertson County Company. The place of rendezvous has been changed from
Brenham to Harrisburg, it being regarded as more central than the former. We
are all impatient to press on to the seat of war. The citizens of Spring Hill
and vicinity showed much kindness. When the day arrived for our departure, we
found ourselves very much embarrassed for the want of baggage wagons. This
news was made public through the community, and the citizens kindly sent us
teams; and even after we had reached Limestone Co., a gentleman by the name of
Brown, rendered the services, free of charge, of a four mule team. But then
there are others who promised fair up to the time of our departure and then
showed the white feather most beautifully, and for all such we cannot have the
same respect that we would wish to have, and we will recollect them many days
hence. The expenses of our company has been comparatively small. The citizens
along the route have furnished us with corn and oats for our teams, and Irish
potatoes, cabbages, peas, onions, chickens, butter and milk, which are
regarded as great delicacies in camp. Capt Winkle and family have camped with
us all the way, and seems to enjoy it vastly. Billy Powers is with us also.
Yesterday our fellow townsman, Mr. Fielder, arrived in camp, and has consented
to share the hospitalities of my tent while with us. Our Company now numbers
ninety-eight. I will write again at Harrisburg, Providence permitting. Yours,
G. S. Boynton ( Aug. 15, 1861)’

(Edited due to length) Harrisburg Encampment, Aug. 3, 1861

Editors Express: We have been in camp four days at this place. On our arrival
we found seven companies here, and all badly situated. We are camped in the
edge of the pine woods, which surrounds a prairie some half mile in diameter.
It is a pretty place for drilling, but the water is wretched. One case of
yellow fever is reported to have been in camp last night. The patient has been
removed. Capt. Winkler has taken great care to establish rules and regulations
for the promotion of the health of his Company. Present strength of the
encampment is about 1,400. Capt. Key, the present commander of the encampment
at this place, will issue orders for the first battalion to move on Monday
next for the seat of war. The division consists of five companies who were
first mustered in at this place; two days later and the second division will
follow. Our company will be in the second division. Our camp is situated on
the Galveston railroad, eight miles from Houston, and one and a half miles
from Buffalo bayou opposite Harrisburg. Our route from this place will be as
follows: From here to Houston, thence by railroad in Sabine Pass, thence by
land to Alexander, then to New Orleans by steamboat. By this route we have sum
three days land travel A portion of our expected equipage has arrived, but no
guns, and I don’t think we will get any. Van Dorn is rather unpopular in this
encampment, from the fact that he has been doing all he can to get President
Davis to countermand the order for these two regiments and quarter them in
Galveston. If this had been done, mutiny, as extensive as was our encampment,
would have been the result. The officers pledged to their men to lead them to
the assistance of Ben McCulloch, if they could not go to the seat of the war;
but think nothing of this kind will occur. I paid a visit to Capt. Edgar’s
Battery of flying artillery. This Company, it will be remembered, passed
through Corsicana some two weeks previous. The battery consists of four pieces
brass cannon - two 6 pounders and two 12 pounders - well mounted. The
artillery can be seen for miles sparkling and glistening in the sunlight when
the gunners are practicing morning and evening. Since we have free passage
upon the Texas Railroad, about every day I take a trip to some adjoining town
or city. Yours, G. S. Boynton ( Aug. 15, 1861)

(EDITED) Letter from on the Invincibles, Mr. Wm. F. Woodard, to a citizen of
our town.

Heading the letter is mounted cannon, surmounted with the Confederate flag.

Friend Eliot - Dear Sir: Letting you know the Corsicana boys are well and in
fine spirits, and expecting a fight in the next 24 hours. We will leave here
this evening at 5 o’clock. We expect to go to a place called Aquia Creek,
about 60 miles below the city of Washington, on the Potomac river. There is a
very large Black Republican force there, and we shall have a large force
oppose them. The boys seem to think we will whip them worse than our boys did
at Manassas Junction on the 21st of the present month. We have about 1500
Abolition prisoners in this place. We killed and crippled about 12,000 of the
grand Northern army. We have to take care of a large number of their wounded,
and our men had to bury a great many of their dead. Best information I can
gather, our loss in killed and wounded will not exceed 1200. The enemy greatly
out numbered us. The artillery of the enemy was far superior to ours in the
number of pieces, but what artillery we had was managed with more efficiency
than our opponents, battery after battery was charged and captured by our
brave boys. Tomorrow our Corsicana boys may have to attack other batteries.
With so many severe drills and other camp duties, I find little time to write.
Our battalion is commanded by Col. Louis T. Wigfall. We have a great many big
men here., We have eight companies in the battalion, and about 750 men. Our
Captains are Black, Bass, Dickinson, Clopton, Moors, Work, Woodward and
Rainey. The boys often talk of their friends in and about Corsicana. Write to
me at - Address W. F. Woodward, Richmond, Va., care of Capt. F. S. Bass, Texas
Battalion. ( Navarro Express, Aug. 22, 1861, Corsicana)



PEOPLE

W. P. Noble, a ferry man on the Trinity river, at Bazel, in this county, sent
up by stage on Wednesday evening, a catfish weighing 53 pounds. J. R.
Williamson, the polite and gentlemanly host of the Williamson’s Hotel had him
"done up" for those stopping with him during the present term of District
Court.(Oct. 29, 1859)

District Court Grand Jury

Grand Jury - Samuel H. Kerr, foreman; C. L. Jernigan, Jesse Hamilton, Wm.
Brown, Jas. Wilson, H. B. Epps, Nathan Hobbs, Joseph Lawrence, Martin Scales,
A. G. Hervy, Evan Roberts, Martin White, Elias Lee, David W. Campbell, Isaac
Kelly.

No. 1 - L. B. Sessions, foreman: E. J. Graham, N. B. Highnote, L. Loggins, I.
M. Fry, R. Grantham, J. T. Petty, D. D. Weaver, S. Wright, J. Hunter, J. G.
Bishop, W. D, Haynes.

No. 2 - J. W, Stewart, foreman; W. Hamilton, Sen. F. S. Williams, S. Hamilton,
S. Baker, T. H. Baker, W. A. Long, R. P. Carothers, C. Crownover, W. J. West,
T. H. Butler, J. Carr.

(Oct. 29, 1859)

Henry Parks, Esq. of Grimes county, passed through here on Thursday last, on
his way to Bonham, where he designs locating for the practice of his
profession. Mr. Parks is a graduate of Baylor University Law School. (Nov. 17,
1859)

Mr. Tickle, living about ten miles from town, had his corn crib, containing
about 100 bushels of corn, burnt up a few night since. It was the work of an
incendiary. (Nov. 17, 1859)

Some two weeks since, Mr. Hugh Ingram, of this county, lost his cotton gin,
with some 20 bags (sic) of cotton in it, by fire. It is supposed that the fire
was kindled by the saws coming in contact with some hard substance - a rock or
nail, perhaps, and before the team could be stopped the fire was thrown into
the lint room, and of course became unmanageable. (Nov. 26, 1859)

We welcome home Thos S. Sweatman, Esq. from his short visit to Alabama. He
reports there was a great deal of emigration to Texas and Arkansas on the
road. (Dec. 3, 1859).

It is good to see Calvin P. Kerr, Esq., once more on the streets. He has had a
severe attack of sickness, having been confined to his bed about six week, and
in the house two months. (Jan. 7, 1860)

John T. Shanks has been sent to the Penitentiary for three years, from Travis
county, for committing forgery. (Jan. 14, 1860)

Dr. H. M. Quarles was killed in Palestine on the 7th inst., by Dr. J. R.
Woodward, who immediately surrendered himself to the civil authorities. (Mar.
24, 1960)

A. M. Bowen, who was in jail here awaiting his trial at the next term of the
District Court, on a charge of stealing a pistol, on Saturday night last, left
his apartment in disgust, and probably will not return, He made a hole through
the floor, where it was a little rotten, and dug under the sill and out! (Mar.
31, 1860)

Jerry Vauhn was tried and acquitted by the District Court of Navarro county
for the killing of Nimrod Walker, at Porter’s Bluff about two years ago. (May
5, 1860)

Mr. J. F. Erwin says he intends to open a singing school at the church.
(June2, 1860)

The post office has been removed to the store of Mr. J. A. Oakes, and he
appointed postmaster. (Jly. 7, 1860)

Last Saturday, B. Templeton of this county was arrested on a charge of horse
stealing, tried before a Justice of the Peace, and in default of bail,
committed to jail. (Sept. 7, 1860)

We learn that Col. M. D. Graham met with a serious and nearly fatal accident
while attempting to cross White Rock creek, Hill county, recently. He was
traveling in a two-horse buggy, and as he drove into the water for his horses
to drink, they stepped into a hole some twenty feet deep, dragging himself and
buggy in with them. Strenuous exertions he was able to get his horses loose
from the buggy and swim out with them. After procuring assistance, he
recovered his buggy and effects and went on his way rejoicing a "wetter" if
not a "wiser man," ye baptized in the democratic faith,. (Oct. 12, 1860)

On the 13th inst., man by the name of Dean passed through our town on his way
south. During his stoppage here he passed counterfeit dollars and two and a
half pieces on a number of our citizens. He was followed next day, overtaken
in Limestone county, brought back, examined before Justice Smith, and is now
in our jail awaiting the presence of Judge Gregg, of the District. He appeared
to be moving, and had a wife and three children. - Also reported in same paper
- Edmund Dean says he was born in Vermont; was partly raised in New York
State; removed to Michigan, was married there; lived a while in LaSalle
County, Illinois; was in Kansas during the trouble there; was broken up by the
Free State party; left Kansas and removed to Cooper county, Missouri; came
from there to Texas; stopped a while in Texas; went to Louisiana; came back to
Texas last July, one year ago; has been traveling round in Texas ever since;
says he has some acquaintance at Stephenson’s Ferry on Sulphur Fork, in
Hopkins County, Texas. (Oct. 19, 1860)In the issue of Oct. 26th, it gives his
name as Richard Dean, saying he was traveling in a two-horse wagon with his
wife and three children. Had with him a fine chestnut sorrel mare, a small
jack and a cow. Two gentlemen made a search near Tahuacana Springs where Dean
was camped when he was arrested, and found concealed under a rock $1250.00 of
counterfeit money; about $30.00 of which was already galvanized, the balance
was in its natural state, and is supposed to be zinc. It is molded, as its
appearance. Clearly indicates and consist of one, two and a half and five
dollar pieces. — In the same issue it states that Richard Dean tried for
counterfeiting gold coins, has been found guilty in two cases, the punishment
assessed at five years confinement in the penitentiary, in each case. - Later
report - Last Sat. Judge Gregg sentenced A. J. Mances and Edmund or Richard
Dean to the penitentiary for 15 years each. The former on two indictments for
horse stealing, the latter on three indictments for counterfeiting. - Reported
on 2nd Nov. that both men had escaped from jail. On No. 9th it was reported
that Edmund Dean was caught some 60 miles east from here, and was now on his
way to Huntsville. Reported that A. J. Mances was about 25 years old, 6 feet
high, and heavy built, weighs about 180 pounds; steps quick for a man of his
size, light complexion, blue eyes, small head, light hair, rather a downcast
look.

Robinson’s Mill, Tarrant Co., Texas. Sept. 25, 1860 - To the Editors of the
White Man - Dear Sirs: The vigilant committee at this place have had under
consideration the conduct of Slathiel Goff, about 60 year of age; voice rough;
nearly all his front teeth out; weighs about 175 pounds; and his son, Payton
Goff, about 30 years of age; heavy set; and weighs about 150 pounds. They have
been notified to leave this county on account of their abolition tendencies.
This is done in order that the people may be on the look out for them wherever
they may go. It is thought the old man has gone to Southern Texas, and Payton
to Missouri. All papers friendly to the South will copy. Truly your friends,
Vigilance Committee. (Printed in the Navarro Express, Nov. 2, 1860)

Dr. N. J. Mills has opened a drug store in this place. (Jan. 23, 1861)

James Talley has removed his stock of dry goods from the east side of the
square to the store recently occupied by Kerr & bro. His groceries are kept at
the old stand. (Jan. 23, 1861)

Marilla Dickson announced that she commence teaching a school on the first
Monday in March, 1861, at her residence, for a term of five months. (Jan. 30,
1861)

On the 10th inst., the dwelling and smoke house of Mrs. Catherine A. Bryant,
of this county was burned down. The fire originated just before day, and is
believed by some to be the work of an incendiary. Everything in the houses
except two beds and two trunks was consumed. ( Mar. 27, 1861)

The dwelling house of Judge J. R. Loughridge caught fire accidentally about
twelve o’clock last Saturday and was entirely consumed. We believe the
furniture, bedding, clothing, and etc., was saved. (May 15, 1861)

Last Saturday, the school at his place under the management of Dr. H. H.
Malloy, came to a close, and was terminated on that night. (Jly. 3, 1861)

Mr. B. L. Ham, an old citizen of this county, arrived last Saturday from Jack
county, his present home. He reported Indians quiet in that section, and that
a large number of families have left the frontier this spring for California
and the northwestern states. (Jly. 10, 1861)