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Augusta County : Agriculture/Commerce/The Economy

Agriculture | Local Business | State/Local Economy | National Economy | Railroads

Note: When you select an article from the list below you will be taken to the appropriate page of the newspaper. You may need to scroll down in order to find the particular article you are interested in reading.

Agriculture

Staunton Spectator, December 26, 1865, p. 1, c. 7: "All Should Labor."
The article urges "all able-bodied" unemployed white men to take up agricultural labor, rather than "lounging about cities and villages in quest of clerkships."

Republican Vindicator, February 9, 1866, p. 2, c. 3
"Sueb" praises the formation of the Churchville Farmer's Club and urges the formation of more such organizations in the area since the profitability of farming "now certainly (second only of course to the immortal Sambo,) demands the most serious consideration.

Staunton Spectator, March 27, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Grape Culture."
The editor praises the move to grape cultivation in the county, an enterprise that "will give profitable employment to many who are unfit for more laborious pursuits."

Republican Vindicator, July 6, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "For The Vindicator."
"Augusta" reports on his recent trip "with several of the Masonic Fraternity" to Bridgewater to celebrate the birthday of John the Baptist. He reports that the wheat crop in the upper end of Rockingham and the lower end of Augusta "far surpasses anything I expected."

Republican Vindicator, May 31, 1867, p. 1, c. 6: "Whiskey From Cornstalks."
The article states that a Virginian has invented a still that makes whiskey using corn stalks, which, as a consequence, will save an immense quantity of grain and potatoes since those are the ingredients currently used to make liquor.

Local Business

Republican Vindicator, August 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
This editorial discusses a perceived "awakening" of business in Staunton.

Republican Vindicator, August, 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The editors comment on the many construction and painting projects going on in Staunton.

Republican Vindicator, April 6, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items."
Mr. Hanger and Mr. Hoover will be opening a broom factory in Churchville on October 1. The author advises farmers to plant extra broom corn to supply the new factory.

Republican Vindicator, May 4, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Praises local residents' desire "to throw aside the Fogyism of the past and take advantage of everything nature has placed in our midst" and urges Staunton to "develop her advantages in the manufacturing line."

Republican Vindicator, May 4, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items."
Praises the "neat and clean appearance" of Staunton's two hotels, each recently remodeled, and "as good hotels as can be found in the State."

Republican Vindicator, June 1, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "Local Items."
The president of the Churchville Oil Company has returned from the oil regions of West Virginia and is confident in the success of the company. The Directors will meet in Staunton next Saturday and hope begin operations immediately.

Valley Virginian, June 6, 1866, p. 1, c. 5: "National Express Company."
The paper publishes part of a letter from General John Imboden clarifying the details of his tenure with the National Express Company. He assures readers that though he is no longer on the board, the company is on sound footing.

Valley Virginian, August 15, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Virginia Hotel, Staunton."
This article from the Richmond Whig reviews favorably Staunton's Virginia Hotel.

Republican Vindicator, August 17, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Argues that local residents should "give preference, as far as possible, to home mechanics and manufactures" rather than procuring their goods from more distant points for a slightly lower price, contending that if money stays in the community "every one derives an advantage from it."

Valley Virginian, August 29, 1866, p. 2, c. 3
This excerpt from a correspondent of the Abingdon Virginian describes business activity in Staunton.

Valley Virginian, September 19, 1866, p. 3, c. 3: "Staunton."
This excerpt from the Winchester Times describes the business and activity occurring in Staunton.

Valley Virginian, September 26, 1866, p. 2, c. 4: "Staunton."
This excerpt from the Richmond Examiner describes Staunton's determination and industry.

Valley Virginian, February 6, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Virginia Porcelean and Earthen Ware Company."
The paper discusses Augusta's Porcelean and Earthen Ware Company.

Staunton Spectator, July 2, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Home Manufactures."
Laments the fact that there is actually less local manufacturing than before the war and suggests that if the local families, those "called 'good livers,'" were willing to curtail their spending by one-tenth and invest that money in local manufactures, new enterprises would quickly spring forth.

Valley Virginian, June 12, 1867, p. 3, c. 3: "A Revolution in the Iron Business."
This article comments on Mt. Solon resident Lorenzo Sybert's achievements in the iron business.

Valley Virginian, August 21, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "A Reconstruction Item."
The purchase of the Esteline Iron Furnace augurs well for the prosperity and development of Augusta.

Staunton Spectator, October 8, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "Our Town and its Business."
Praises the "activity and animation which pervades all departments of business in our community," but laments the fact that "a large part of the trade of the Valley is being diverted from Richmond to other cities."

Staunton Spectator, December 10, 1867, p. 3, c. 2: "Local News."
"Augusta" reports that large quantities of iron ore have been found near Waynesboro and suggests that this represents "a rare opening for capital and enterprise."

State/Local Economy

Republican Vindicator, September 1, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The editors plead for development of manufacturing in Virginia.

Republican Vindicator, September 22, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The paper applauds the progress the South has made since the war in regaining prosperity.

Republican Vindicator, December, 8, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Argues that Virginia "has been proven equally great in council and in war" and that now "imperative necessity compels her to develop her resources" if the state is to return to its former position.

Staunton Spectator, December 25, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "The True Policy of Virginia."
Calls on the legislators of Virginia to "take a practical view of the subject" and allow for roads and canals to be built, even if it requires capital from outside the state.

Republican Vindicator, January 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Referring to a Philadelphia "Radical Journal" article that expressed concern over the city's waning trade, the author argues that if "instead of harsh epithets and blows" Philadelphia would "extend a helping hand to us in our misfortunes" their economic woes would be alleviated by the prosperity that harmony would engender.

Republican Vindicator, January 26, 1866, p. 1, c. 7: "The South."
Argues that it is "idle to despond of the future" of the South because "with the removal of slavery the energies and enterprise of the whole world will seek a field of action within our borders."

Staunton Spectator, March 20, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Home Industry."
Argues that Southerners should rely less on Northern manufactures.

Republican Vincicator, March 30, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Disparages the sentiment in Congress, which seems determined "to irritate, rather than appease," and shows "a desire to plunge our section into the lowest deep of humiliation and despondency." But the editor discourages emigration, urging readers to "remain where you are and rest assured our Sunny South at no distant day will be the wealthiest section in the Union."

Valley Virginian, May 30, 1866, p. 1, c. 7: "The Future of Virginia."
The paper prints an editorial which argues that the Virginia Canal and Covington and Ohio Railroad will allow Virginia to compete with the Northeast and New Orleans for the trade of the West. The editors envision a prosperous future, in which capital, industry, and population are attracted to Virginia.

Valley Virginian, June 20, 1866, p. 1, c. 7
This editorial proclaims that "the South is about to commence a career of unexampled prosperity." The destruction of slavery and the necessity to rebuild the South will make it an industrial giant. If the North carries on Reconstruction in good faith, they will share in that prosperity; if not, then they will be left behind.

Staunton Spectator, August 28, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "The Future of our Valley."
Argues that "a better day is about to dawn upon us," with the Philadelphia Convention indicating that a restoration of political rights and an influx of immigration and capital is imminent. Before the war, the article contends, slavery "operated like a wall to exclude Northern capital from the Southern States," but once the "social fermentation is over" this relationship will change.

Staunton Spectator, October 23, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Merit Should be the Stanard."
Argues that "wealth ought to cease from constituting the basis of social distinction," to be replaced with an "aristocracy of morals, culture and intelligence."

Staunton Spectator, November 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Home Manufactures."
Encourages Southerners to "keep the money at home," arguing that "every Southern State should now be busily engaged in establishing factories of all kinds." Georgia, the article suggests, is offering a model of enterprise for other Southern states to follow.

Valley Virginian, November 7, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Advantages of Northern Capitalists."
This article argues that study of the North can instruct the South about capital investment and growth, and gives examples.

Staunton Spectator, December 4, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "The Future of the South."
Explains that, while the South contains plenty of lawyers, doctors, and eloquent speakers, "the growth of a State depends less on them than on the character of the men who manage its industrial enterprise." Consequently, the article encourages young men to pursue careers in industry and the railroad.

Valley Virginian, December 5, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "A Cheerful View of the Situation."
This article reprinted from the Richmond Times takes an optimistic view of the commercial and political future of Virginia. Material prosperity will bring an end to political persecution, the author asserts. Soldiers returning to work their farms should be congratulated.

Valley Virginian, December 12, 1866, p. 1, c. 5: "The Future of the South."
This article argues that the future prosperity of the South depends on developing young men skilled in industry and the mechanical arts.

Valley Virginian, December 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Our True Policy."
This editorial argues that the war proved that the South can be industrious when forced to. If southern whites show the same zeal in developing manufactures, the South will become the most wealthy and powerful section of the country. In the meantime, southerners should stay out of politics to prevent breaking the region's unity.

Valley Virginian, December 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 4: "Working Men in Society."
This letter to the editor qualifies the Virginian's long-standing call for the South to take up industrial pursuits. The writer agrees that labor is important to the prosperity of the post-war South, but argues that agricultural labor is more beneficial than other forms.

Valley Virginian, January 9, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "Workingmen in Society."
"Erina" writes a second letter to the editor on the importance of working men in society. In this selection, he discusses the importance of an educated working class to the prosperity of Virginia.

Republican Vindicator, January 25, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors herald the development of the manufacturing and mining industries in Virginia. These advances will aid Virginia's return "to the former prosperity of the 'Old Dominion.'"

Staunton Spectator, January 29, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Manufacturing Interests."
Lauds the industrial potential of Virginia, arguing that the "capabilities and advantages" of the state should be "made known to capitalists and manufacturers in Europe, as well as in portions of this country where capital is seeking a profitable investment."

Valley Virginian, February 6, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "The Prospect."
The editors say that the only bright spot in the South's exclusion from politics is that it has made the population focus on business. While Northerners are absorbed with the novelty of controlling the government, southerners can focus on material progress.

Valley Virginian, March 20, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "One of the Effects."
This article argues that the one positive effect of the Military Reconstruction Bill is the increased willingness of northerners to invest in the South. Immigration from the North is also picking up, ensuring a prosperous future for the region.

Republican Vindicator, May 24, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors contend immigration is an important issue that has been given short shrift by Virginia's residents and politicians. Yet, they note, immigrants are the key to the state's future prosperity, particularly in light of the difficulties in labor relations since the war.

Valley Virginian, June 5, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "What We Saw!"
The editors contrast New York City with the rural Valley and assert that Virginians can learn lessons from Northern prosperity. Hard work, immigration, and industrial development are needed to keep up in the race of life.

Valley Virginian, June 5, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
This article argues that political power and political rights for the white South will follow material prosperity.

Valley Virginian, June 19, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "How to Live."
This editorial argues that the defeated South should learn lessons from the conquering North in providing for the future. Virginians can insure a prosperous future if they encourage immigration, public schools, internal improvements and industry.

Valley Virginian, July 3, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "'The Mother of States'--How to Make Her a State."
This editorial advocates formation of a Land Owner's Association formed to pool and sell unused land to worthy small proprietors. Large land-owners need to cultivate small farmers in order for Virginia to regain her place as one of the most prosperous states in the Union. Confederate veterans and European immigrants recruited by Staunton's leading German citizens are the best small farmers with which to begin.

Valley Virginian, July 31, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "Our Young Men."
This article encourages the young men of the South to step in and fill the labor gap now existing in that section.

Republican Vindicator, August 30, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors allege that Republicans have consistently fought to prevent the immigration of whites to the South as part of an effort to retain control over the region. If whites were allowed to move to the South, the editors assert, it would alter the balance of political power and remove the obstacles holding back the South's economic potential.

Republican Vindicator, September 20, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors rejoice at the fact that growing numbers of northern men have come to the South to relocate and invest their capital. This trend, they note, indicates that the rumors of ill-treatment of northern immigrants have subsided.

National Economy

Republican Vindicator, November 3, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The paper comes out against the compulsory funding of government paper currency in order to restore its value. A similar plan ruined Confederate finances, the editors argue. Instead, the paper supports redemption of paper money with specie.

Republican Vindicator, February 2, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors note that the war has had devastating effect on the nation's economy, and assert that the duties applied to imported goods have only exacerbated the situation. Should the situation persist, the editors predict dire consequences for northern manufacturers.

Republican Vindicator, August 30, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors contend that the "irrepressible conflict" between capital and labor has reached a dangerous new level in the U. S., spurred on by the disagreement over how to pay off government bonds.

Railroads

Staunton Spectator, December 19, 1865, p. 2, c. 1: "A Valley Railroad."
Addresses the proposition of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to build a line from Staunton to Baltimore, decried by Richmond merchants as a measure that would sap their commerce. The author claims that the Legislature should abandon the "suicidal policy" of forcing producers to trade in Richmond.

Republican Vindicator, December 22, 1865, p. 1, c. 5: "Proposal to Build a Railroad through the Valley of Virginia."
Quotes extensively from the report of President Garrett of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company, advocating the construction of a rail line through the Valley.

Republican Vindicator, December 22, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
Referring to the proposal to build a railroad through the Valley of Virginia, the editor urges the Legislature to facilitate the railroad's construction.

Valley Virginian, January 10, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Valley Railroad."
The paper comes out in favor of completion of the Valley Railroad. Since the State does not have the resources to finish it, the project should be opened to private investment, the editors argue. They also urge the people of Staunton to hold a public demonstration in support of the plan.

Staunton Spectator, January 16, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Valley Railroad--Grant the Charter."
Encourages state legislators to grant a debated charter to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad to build a rail line from Winchester to Salem, asking "shall we remain poor, when riches are proffered us?"

Valley Virginian, January 24, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Our Great Railroads."
The paper takes the editors of the Richmond Whig to task for asserting that the Valley Railroad would benefit Baltimore at Richmond's expense. The Valley Virginian defends the Railroad, and argues that the war left Valley communities too devastated to continue to support attempts to center trade in Richmond and Norfolk.

Valley Virginian, January 24, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "The Valley and the Covington Railroads. Public Meeting."
The paper prints the proceedings of a public meeting held in Staunton that advocated the construction of a Valley Railroad. The Committee issued resolutions declaring that the influx of foreign capital and increased trade resulting from a railroad would help pull the Valley out of the wreckage of war.

Republican Vindicator, January 26, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Responding to arguments in the Baltimore papers that the construction of the Valley Railroad will benefit Baltimore's trade at the expense of Richmond, the editor contends that the local efforts to secure the rail line are being taken "not in the interest of Baltimore, Richmond, or any other city, but in the interest of the Valley exclusively" and that it is unlikely that Richmond's trade will in fact suffer.

Staunton Spectator, January 30, 1866, p. 3, c. 3: "Railroad Meeting."
Details the proceedings of a meeting of citizens advocating the construction of a railroad through the Valley.

Republican Vindicator, February 9, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Lauds the recent decision by the state legislature to approve the construction of a railroad from Winchester to Strasburg, calling the decision "one step, and a very important one, toward the development of the Valley section."

Republican Vindicator, February 23, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Questions the motives of those who are arguing against the Valley Railroad Bill in the Virginia Legislature by suggesting that the new line will undermine the prosperity of other parts of the state.

Valley Virginian, March 7, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Baltimore and Richmond."
In this editorial, the paper advocates construction of both the North-South Valley Railroad and the East-West Covington Railroad despite the objections of Richmond. The editors assure Richmond that their city will not be hurt, celebrate the resources of the Valley, and paint a glowing picture of the area's economic future.

Republican Vindicator, March 9, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Praises the Senate's passage of the Valley Railroad Bill, despite a proviso that may impede the completion of the rail line, and urges that "every energy" be exerted to construct the line.

Valley Virginian, March 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Valley Railroad--Labor in Virginia."
The paper prints an editorial in favor of a bill incorporating the Valley Railroad. The editors argue that the road would attract capital to the Valley and establish Richmond as a key center of Atlantic trade, bringing both goods and immigrants to Virginia. The article also comments on usury laws, and the need for labor in the South.

Valley Virginian, March 21, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "The Valley Railroad Convention."
The paper urges Staunton residents to hold meetings to send representatives to the Valley Railroad Convention, which is to meet in Staunton. Prompt action in building the road will ensure the livelihood and prosperity of the Valley.

Republican Vindicator, April 6, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items."
A summary of the proceedings of the Valley Railroad Convention, held in Staunton last Wednesday. The article suggests that "the Valley Railroad Scheme, will, ere many years, be a realized fact."

Valley Virginian, April 11, 1866, p. 1, c. 6: "The Valley Railroad Convention."
The paper reports on the proceedings of the Valley Railroad Convention, assembled to "take some steps to secure the subscription of sufficient stock to comply with the conditions of the Charter." A list of delegates and officers elected is also included.

Valley Virginian, April 18, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Great Valley Railroad--Meeting of the Stockholders of the Manassas Gap Railroad--The Prospect and Our Duty."
The paper reports that the stockholders of the Manassas Gap Railroad met in Alexandria, and discussed with representatives of the Valley Railroad Company a plan to aid the former road, and charter the latter. The editors urge bondholders and citizens alike to aid the endeavor in any way they can, since the prosperity of the Valley is riding on the future of the railroad.

Valley Virginian, April 18, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Railroad Convention."
The paper reprints the Rockingham Register's impressions of the Valley Railroad Convention, and the speeches given there.

Valley Virginian, June 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Railroad Connections."
The paper prints statistics regarding the agricultural output of the Valley in hopes of attracting investors in the Valley Railroad.

Republican Vindicator, July 20, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Criticizes the people of the Valley for their reticence to subscribe to Valley Railroad stock, explaining to readers that "if we want this road built we must take an interest in it and put our shoulders to the wheel."

Valley Virginian, August 1, 1866, p. 2, c. 4: "The Great Valley Railroad."
The paper announces a meeting regarding the establishment of the Valley Railroad, and declares it the most important issue facing the people of the Valley.

Republican Vindicator, August 17, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Referring to his recent appeal to increase local subscriptions for the construction of the Valley Railroad, the editor expresses disappointment that "we show no greater disposition to further this great work."

Republican Vindicator, August 31, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Urges local residents to subscribe to the construction of the Valley Railroad because the prospective line is "destined . . . to be of great advantage to the people of this section."

Valley Virginian, September 5, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Situation--Especially the Valley Rail Road."
The editors apprise readers of the situation in several areas. They are encouraged by President Johnson's speaking tour in the North, hope that peace in Europe will lead to investment in Virginia, and, by pointing out the value of Augusta lands, attempt to convince residents to accept a tax to pay for the Valley Railroad.

Valley Virginian, September 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Influence of Railroads upon Agriculture and other Interests."
The paper urges voters to support the subscription of money for the Valley Railroad. The editors argue that construction of the road will increase the profitability of all branches of agriculture and manufacturing.

Valley Virginian, September 19, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Emigration."
The editors argue that the completion of the Valley Railroad will attract emigrants to the area who will add to the wealth and prosperity of the Valley.

Republican Vindicator, November 16, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
The editors commend the residents of Rockbridge County, who voted overwhelmingly in favor of subscribing $100,000 to the Valley Railroad Stock. The tally was 497 for and 36 against.

Valley Virginian, March 6, 1867, p. 1, c. 5: "Our Railroad."
This article from the Rockingham Register celebrates the recent bill passed in the legislature clearing the way for a railroad to Harrisonburg. The coming of the "iron horse" to the Valley will open a future of unlimited prosperity.

Staunton Spectator, June 18, 1867, p. 1, c. 5: "Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad."
John Baldwin writes in support of the extension of the Covington and Ohio railroad, and encloses a letter from Robert E. Lee endorsing the project.

Valley Virginian, June 19, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Great Work Before Us--Our Opportunity."
This article gives a statistical breakdown of the costs and benefits of building the Valley Railroad. It concludes that it would be extremely beneficial to Augusta, and encourages the people of the Valley to support it.

Staunton Spectator, June 25, 1867, p. 3, c. 2: "Local News--Railroad Meeting."
Reports that the citizens of the county met at the court house on June 24 to consider the proposed extension of the Central Railway line. Additionally, they passed resolutions to submit to the voters a subscription to fund the railroad.

Republican Vindicator, July 5, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors explain the logic behind their endorsement of the Covington and Ohio Railroad plan. According to their estimation, the long-term benefits of financing the enterprise far outweigh the short-term costs.

Republican Vindicator, September 20, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
At a meeting in Richmond last Monday, reports the article, an "overwhelming majority" of those in attendance voted in favor of supporting a $2,000,000 subscription to the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad. The editors endorse this decision on the grounds that the railroad will "tap the fertile prairies of the great West" and transport its "riches into the lap of Virginia."

Staunton Spectator, October 1, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "Subscription to the Railroad."
"X." writes to encourage voters to reject the county subscription of $300,000 for the construction of the Central Railroad.

Staunton Spectator, October 22, 1867, p. 1, c. 6: "Rail Road Subscription."
"Farmer" decries the subscription of $300,000 for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad that will soon be submitted to the voters of Augusta. He urges readers to vote against it, arguing that it will benefit Ohio but not Augusta. If it does pass, the author expresses his hope that those with "manly fortitude, heroic patriotism, and enlightened regard" will "resist its collection by every lawful means."

Staunton Spectator, December 10, 1867, p. 3, c. 2: "Local News--Railroad Meeting."
At a meeting of "citizens of Augusta" in Richmond on November 28 sub-committees were organized to canvass the county to secure the subscription of $300,000 for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad.

Staunton Spectator, December 17, 1867, p. 2, c. 3
David Fultz, who was placed on the committee to canvas the county for a subscription to the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad without his consent, argues that such questions should be postponed until "wicked party struggles for political ascendancy shall subside" and asks "can railroads relieve us from a grinding despotism?"