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Augusta County : Reconstruction and Military Occupation

Reconstruction in Augusta | Reconstructing Southern Society | Southern Response to Reconstruction Policy

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Reconstruction in Augusta

Republican Vindicator, June 30, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The paper applauds the action of Col. Stewart, the post commandant, for arresting all the "idle" black men in town.

Republican Vindicator, June 30, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "H'd Q'rs Army of the Shenandoah."
The paper publishes an order signed by General Torbert of the US Army of the Shenandoah forbidding any ex-Confederates from appearing in public wearing any "insignia of rank" in the army or navy of the Confederacy.

Republican Vindicator, July 2, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
This letter urges the people of Augusta to take both the amnesty oath and the oath of loyalty to the government of the State of Virginia.

Republican Vindicator, July 21, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "The Right Spirit."
This letter applauds Staunton's lawyers for preparing free of charge applications for special pardon.

Staunton Spectator, October 10, 1865, p. 1, c. 5: "Letter from Hon. John B. Baldwin."
In his letter, John B. Baldwin discusses public opinion in Virginia relative to secession, slavery, and restoration.

Republican Vindicator, November 10, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The paper calls for a "farmer's convention" to meet to discuss the South's labor problems. The editors argue that though some white labor can be procured through immigration, Virginians must face the truth that the freedmen will remain in the South for good or ill. Consequently, they must be made to labor to "prevent vagrancy" and "the acquisition of idle habits." The editors argue that African American labor was profitable under slavery, and can be made so again with the proper laws.

Staunton Spectator, January 23, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "Local News--No Use for Soldiers Here."
Argues that soldiers "caused disorder generally" when stationed in Staunton and expresses the hope that they will not return.

Valley Virginian, January 24, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "The Effect of the Removal of the Troops."
The paper reports that Federal troops have left the Valley.

Staunton Spectator, January 30, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Petitions of "Union Men.""
Reports that J. W. Dewes, who served on the Freedmen's Court at the behest of the area's freedmen, has been circulating a secret petition. The editor demands that the contents of the petition be known.

Valley Virginian, February 7, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "'That Petition' Again."
The editors protest against William J. Dew's petition which calls for the return of Federal troops to Augusta. The paper explains that it was brought because Union men claimed that they were not being afforded fair trial, and that they feared conflict between ex-Confederates and returning Union supporters. The editors assert that this is not the case, and no Union men even tested the court's fairness before petitioning. They oppose any attempt to "saddle upon our people a new batch of officials and soldiers, without a fair hearing from all parties."

Valley Virginian, February 7, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "That Petition."
William J. Dews defends his decision to circulate a petition for the return of Federal troops to Staunton.

Staunton Spectator, February 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "W. J. Dews."
Argues that W. J. Dews is attempting to goad the editors into casting aspersions upon him so that he can posture as a persecuted Union man and bring federal troops back to Staunton.

Staunton Spectator, February 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 5: "To The Editor of the "Spectator.""
William J. Dews responds to an article in the previous issue of the Spectator which alleged questionable motives in relation to his circulation of a petition.

Republican Vindicator, February 9, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "That Petition."
William Dews responds to an article in a previous issue of the Vindicator which criticized his efforts to circulate a petition among the Union men of the county. Dews argues that it is the editors of Southern newspapers who are "contributing vastly to the animosity between the two sides" by continuing to celebrate the Confederate cause.

Valley Virginian, February 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 6: "How We Are Belied."
The paper complains that rumors circulating in the North about violent conditions in the South prevent the "right sort" of immigrants from coming to the Valley. The truth of the matter is, state the editors, that "since the soldiers have been removed from the Valley, peace and quiet have prevailed."

Valley Virginian, February 14, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "All Right."
The paper encourages Staunton residents to cooperate with the Freedmen's Court in order to prevent the return of Federal troops to town.

Staunton Spectator, March 6, 1866, p. 3, c. 4: "Significant Order."
Includes an order pledging support from the local courts and constabulary for the Freedmen's Court, maintaining that federal troops are not required in the area.

Republican Vindicator, March 16, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local Items."
Reports on a recent dispute between Jas. Chandler and the clerk of the American Hotel which was resolved by the local Freedmen's Bureau officer.

Republican Vindicator, March 23, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Reports that the Freedmen's Bureau will soon allow cases involving any "colored person" to be settled in the local civil courts, though the proceedings will be monitored by the Bureau to ensure fair treatment. The author contends that this will "give the lie" to charges "of prejudice against a class of people, whom we have reared and nurtured among us and for whose welfare our cares and desires have been persistent."

Valley Virginian, April 11, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "The Greaver Case."
The paper reports that Capt. Tukey of the Freedman's Bureau has been investigating under orders the case of Alex Greaver, a Confederate deserter and self-proclaimed Union supporter.

Staunton Spectator, April 17, 1866, p. 3, c. 1: "Local News--The Greaver Trial."
An update on the trial of Alex. Greaver, whose case has been tried before the Freedmen's Court rather than in civil court because he claimed to be a "persecuted Union man."

Staunton Spectator, May 1, 1866, p. 3, c. 2
Claims that "dark, sneaking, underhanded petitions" are circulating in the area "for sinister and unworthy purposes."

Republican Vindicator, May 4, 1866, p. 2, c. 2
Referring to a petition presented in Congress on May 1 by Senator Trumbull from citizens of Staunton, the author denounces the man who circulated the petition, W. J. Dews. The article claims the petition "was only intended by its originator to harass our people."

Staunton Spectator, May 8, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "That Petition."
A petition from "146 loyal citizens of Staunton" was recently presented in Congress. It is suspected to be the work of W. J. Dews, who has been rumored to be circulating petitions of a suspicious character. The petition claims that "loyal" citizens of Staunton have been "persecuted by rebels" and calls for the return of federal troops. The editor expresses outrage at this "slandering of the citizens of Augusta."

Valley Virginian, May 9, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "That Petition."
The paper expresses outrage and disbelief that a petition asking for the return of Federal troops to Augusta and signed by citizens of Staunton was presented in Congress. The paper denounces it as a fraud and claims that "never has this town and county been so orderly and quiet as it has been since the troops left, and even the negroes rejoice at the change."

Valley Virginian, May 16, 1866, p. 2, c. 4: "That Petition and Its Noble Signers."
The paper prints the petition presented in Congress in which the Union men of Augusta ask that Federal troops be returned to the county. All the names and occupations of those who signed are included.

Republican Vindicator, May 18, 1866, p. 2, c. 2
Includes ten letters and affidavits from signers of the "Dews petition," which has sparked a controversy in recent weeks. All of the men claim they either did not sign the petition or did so after being deceived as to its contents.

Staunton Spectator, May 22, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Filching Money From Negroes."
Argues that W. J. Dews, who apparently initiated the controversial recent petition sent to Congress, used his position as a member of the Freedmen's Court to "filch money from the negro," making him "worse than a chicken thief."

Staunton Spectator, May 22, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Denials of the Signers."
Some of the men who apparently signed the recent petition to Congress now claim that they never signed it, while others claim they signed it "under misapprehensions of its character." The article also argues that Dews and Todd, the men who circulated the petition, should be indicted for perjury by the Grand Jury.

Republican Vindicator, May 25, 1866, p. 2, c. 3
Letters from "signers and pretended signers of the Dews-Todd petition," who all try to distance themselves from the petition. One of them, William Armstrong, attacks Dews and Todd as "perjurers and slanderers."

Valley Virginian, May 30, 1866, p. 3, c. 2: "That Petition."
The paper reports that a number of men have come forward denying that they ever signed the petition calling for the return of Federal troops to Augusta. W. J. Dews, the originator of the petition, has had it withdrawn while he attempts to prove that it was indeed signed by all those he had previously listed.

Republican Vindicator, June 1, 1866, p. 2, c. 2
Reports that Senator Trumbull has withdrawn the "Dews petition" from the Senate floor after receiving a letter from W. J. Dews which claimed that the signers of the petition were being pressured and intimidated into disclaiming their affiliation with it. The editor disputes Dews' account, arguing that those "who made public their statements did so voluntarily" and that Dews should display the original petition to the community to see if any of the signatures are forgeries.

Valley Virginian, June 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "A Card from Hon. A. H. H. Stuart."
The paper prints portions of a letter from Alexander H. H. Stuart in which he discusses the results of preliminary investigation into the authenticity of the petition asking that Federal troops be returned to Staunton. Stuart maintains that many of those who signed the paper were mislead, and that others came from different counties, including some in West Virginia. Stuart reports that one man, a baker, admitted to signing the petition only because the soldiers were good for business.

Republican Vindicator, March 22, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
Although the editors lament the loss of the state's sovereignty under the terms of the Reconstruction Act, they acknowledge the situation could be worse; the state could have been saddled with a tyrannical military commander rather than Gen. Scholfield, for whom they offer tepid praise.

Staunton Spectator, April 23, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "A Disgusted Delegate."
E. L. Houff, a delegate from Augusta to the loyalist convention in Richmond, returned home after discovering "that the convention was got up and controlled by corrupt and designing (white) men for their own selfish ends."

Republican Vindicator, June 7, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
Notes that Gen. Scholfield appointed Brevet Lt. Col. Walter S. Franklin to command the sub-district that includes counties in the Shenandoah Valley.

Republican Vindicator, June 14, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors remind readers of the importance of registering to vote, and examine some of the provisions contained in Gen. Scholfield's proclamation on voter eligibility. Evidently there is considerable confusion over who is actually disfranchised.

Valley Virginian, July 3, 1867, p. 3, c. 3: "The Freedman's Bureau--A Superfluous Concern."
A New York Herald Correspondent in Staunton reports that the Freedman's Bureau there is handing out very few charity rations. In fact, the area is exporting surplus produce to the South, since the people, "especially the whites," have worked hard at rebuilding their farms.

Staunton Spectator, July 23, 1867, p. 3, c. 1: "Local News-Speeches."
Capt. F. S. Tukey, the former superintendent of the local Freedmen's Bureau, addressed a "mixed assemblage" at the Court House last Saturday. Captain James Bumgardner and A. T. Maupin also addressed the audience.

Valley Virginian, July 31, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Reconstruction Meeting Monday."
A meeting to discuss Reconstruction was held in Staunton. It was heavily attended by African Americans. The mostly white speakers warned blacks not to trust Radicals and Northerners or join any political party. The people of the South should comply with Congressional demands, work hard, but remain independent.

Republican Vindicator, August 2, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
Contains an order from Gen. Scholfield, clarifying who is eligible to hold office, according to the Reconstruction acts.

Reconstructing Southern Society

Republican Vindicator, July 21, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
This editorial applauds the Virginia government's speedy course in restoring the rights of voting and office holding to its citizens.

Republican Vindicator, September 15, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The paper applauds President Andrew Johnson's position supporting the re-mustering of southern state militias.

Republican Vindicator, September 15, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The paper denounces northern newspapers for printing stories about continuing southern violence toward freedmen and hatred for the Union.

Republican Vindicator, September 22, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The paper reports that President Johnson is planning to withdraw Federal troops from the South.

Republican Vindicator, November 3, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The paper announces the arrival of Irish immigrants in Petersburg, and advocates legislation to encourage immigration to Virginia. The editors argue that immigrants are the perfect substitute for black labor.

Valley Virginian, February 7, 1866, p. 1, c. 5
The paper applauds the decision of some Freedmen's Bureau agents to take a tough position on labor issues.

Valley Virginian, February 20, 1866, p. 1, c. 6: "Restless Symptoms."
This article declares that discontent among both races is widespread in the South. Whites and blacks alike are moving to other sections as a result of the social and economic upheavals of war. The author encourages whites to remain as blacks leave, and invite white immigrants to the South.

Valley Virginian, June 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 3
The paper prints an anecdote ridiculing the financial motives of many northerners who have come South to teach African Americans.

Valley Virginian, August 29, 1866, p. 2, c. 4
The editors welcome a rumor that the Freedmen's Bureau will stop issuing rations in the South, and suggest the complete dismantling of the bureau.

Valley Virginian, November 21, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Northern Immigrants."
This article republished from the Richmond Times asserts that southerners hold little animosity toward northerners, especially since many of the latter sympathized with or supported the Confederacy. Immigration of such acceptable northerners should be encouraged in the South.

Valley Virginian, December 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 5: "A Cheering Sign."
This article reports that immigrants are leaving England for Texas. The South, the author argues, would get more such "desirable Anglo-Saxon" immigrants if the North allowed speedy and peaceful readmittance to the Union.

Staunton Spectator, January 8, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Our True Policy."
Lays out the "true policy" of the South. The author recommends emulating Northern industry and argues that Southerners needs to "diffuse the negroes" because, with them "concentrated here, we shall never have peace."

Republican Vindicator, February 1, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
The editors commend philanthropic organizations in New York that have collected money to provide relief for destitute southerners, yet they question the logic of Radicals who have joined the effort since it was they, the Radicals, who brought about the southerners' suffering in the first place. Indeed, as a result of their reconstruction policies, the Radicals have stood as the key obstacle to improving the southerners' conditions.

Republican Vindicator, March 15, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
Noting that if the circumstances were similar in the North immediate action would be taken to remedy the situation, the article discusses the contents of the report issued by Gen. O. O. Howard, Commissioner of the Freedmen's Burearu, which provides a breakdown of the number of destitute in the South. The agency supplied aid to nearly 60,000 people, more than half of whom were white.

Valley Virginian, April 17, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "A Trip Down the Valley."
A correspondent of the Valley Virginian took a ten-day trip through the Valley and reports on conditions up and down its length. He describes the now abandoned battle fields, reports on efforts to bury the Confederate dead, and discusses the opinion of residents on reconstruction.

Staunton Spectator, May 28, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
Argues that "ultras" in the North have sent emissaries to the South with the hope of provoking riots as a pretext to galvanize Northern sentiment against the South.

Valley Virginian, July 31, 1867, p. 4, c. 1: "Sound Logic."
This excerpt from the Charlottesville Chronicle argues that, counter-intuitively, the areas of that had been most united behind the Confederacy are the most respectful of the Federal military authorities, because they are not fighting old feuds between Unionists and Secessionists that developed during the war. Furthermore, the areas with smaller black populations such as the Valley, are more willing to provoke the Radicals because they have no need to fear the consequences as much.

Staunton Spectator, August 20, 1867, p. 2, c. 1
Argues that "there is nothing more certain than that, under the negro rule which the radicals have imposed upon the Southern States, the white people will be compelled to leave, and that ere long the whole Southern portion of our country will be a vast negro province."

Staunton Spectator, August 27, 1867, p. 1, c. 6: "Shall Northern Men Migrate to the South?"
Argues that the Radical plan to place the South "under the political control of two and a quarter millions of negroes" acts as a de facto ban on Northern immigration, which the South should encourage. Ultimately, the author contends, the cry will some from the North-- "'This country belongs to the white man.'"

Republican Vindicator, October 25, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "The South Twenty Years Hence."
At present, says the article, there are 12,000,000 people in the South, two-thirds of whom are white. Within twenty years, it predicts, the population will have grown to 25,000,000 or 30,000,000, the increase due mostly to European immigration, which will leave southern blacks vastly outnumbered.

Valley Virginian, November 6, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
The paper applauds an item blaming high taxes and poverty on the Freedman's Bureau and Republican rule.

Republican Vindicator, November 8, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
In light of the changes in labor relations since the end of the war, the article advocates luring white immigrants to the state by offering uncultivated lands for sale at reasonable prices. The article includes a letter from the Commissioner of the Board of Immigration recommending that communities raise funds to assist the immigration schemes.

Valley Virginian, December 25, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Destitution in the South."
This selection from the Norfolk Journal describes widespread poverty throughout the South. The Freedmen are especially impoverished, which can lead to crime, the article asserts.

Southern Response to Reconstruction Policy

Republican Vindicator, June 30, 1867, p. 1, c. 6: "Hanging and Confiscation."
This article, reprinted from the Baltimore Gazette, argues against the position, held by many northerners, that ex-Confederates should be punished for treason by hanging or confiscation of land and property.

Republican Vindicator, July 7, 1865, p. 1, c. 3: "The South for Union and Fraternity."
The paper reprints from the New York News an editorial that argues that the South's "calm resignation" in the face of defeat proves that they wish to return to and support the Union in good faith.

Staunton Spectator, July 11, 1865, p. 2, c. 2: "The Oath of Amnesty."
The editors encourage all their readers to take the oath of amnesty, made available by President Johnson's "humane motives." They warn that failure to take the oath will leave Southerners "at the mercy of every malicious enemy."

Republican Vindicator, November 24, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
This editorial applauds the merciful petitions for forgiveness that northern and southern women have tendered on behalf of Jefferson Davis. The paper contrasts that spirit to the positions of those who wish to punish him.

Staunton Spectator, January 23, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Reconstruction and Loyalty."
Details the divergent definitions of the terms "reconstruction" and "loyalty" among Northerners and Southerners, arguing that "Radicals" in Massachusetts are attempting to create a "Puritan Empire."

Staunton Spectator, February 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 1: "Unionists and Disunionists."
Argues that those who seek to restore the Union as it existed before the war are the true Unionists and those "who deny equal rights to the citizens of the several States" are the disunionists.

Staunton Spectator, February 13, 1866, p. 2, c. 4: "Still Rebellious Of Course."
Argues that "the Radicals of the North" are "endeavoring to goad the South into some demonstration of insubordination that will justify them before the Northern masses in their exactions and oppressions."

Valley Virginian, February 14, 1866, p. 1, c. 6: "Admiral Semmes."
The paper publishes part of a letter in which Confederate Admiral Semmes writes to President Johnson to demand restoration of his rights. He includes a vindication of the South and its actions, asserting that "whatever else may be said of me, I have at least brought no discredit upon the American name and character."

Republican Vindicator, April 6, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Urges readers not to believe that "all northern men are against us, and desire to see us humiliated in the extreme." Instead, the author argues that many in the North who offer "words of encouragement and cheer" still wish to see the South restored to "our old position in the Union."

Valley Virginian, April 11, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Our Imprisoned Chief."
The paper reprints portions of an editorial from the NY Herald supporting the release of Jefferson Davis from prison. The article argues that Davis is not a common criminal and cannot be charged separately from all the southern people "whose will he carried out."

Valley Virginian, May 2, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Jefferson Davis."
The paper challenges the administration's decision to hold Jefferson Davis as a prisoner. The editors argue that since he has not been convicted of a crime, he should be released on bail until a trial might take place. His word should be sufficient, but the Governors of the South could pledge "their lives, their property, and their sacred honor," for his good behavior on parole.

Valley Virginian, May 30, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "The Jailors and their Brutal Work."
This editorial alleges that Jefferson Davis is ill due to mistreatment in prison. It denounces his captivity as groundless and demands his release or immediate trial.

Republican Vindicator, June 8, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Argues that when "the Southern armies surrendered it was with the idea that they and their people would be allowed all the rights they had in the Government prior to secession" but instead "the spirit of fanatical hate and vindictiveness seems to be more rampant than during the war." The author also criticizes any policy that would exclude former Confederate officials from office, contending that "they were the mere servants of the masses."

Valley Virginian, July 4, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "An Historical Parallel."
This editorial compares the South's grievances with Congress to the grievances of the American revolutionaries of 1776 with King George III. Southerners are facing taxation without representation, and an oppressive armed force in their towns and cities.

Valley Virginian, July 25, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Civil War."
This editorial discusses the prospects of a second civil war. It argues that the country is drifting toward armed conflict between Radical Republicans and conservatives North and South.

Valley Virginian, September 12, 1866, p. 2, c. 6: "Mr. Baldwin's Evidence Before the Reconstruction Committee."
John B. Baldwin clears up misperceptions surrounding his testimony before the Reconstruction Committee. He argued that any Southerners charged with treason must be afforded the right of trial by jury, including Jefferson Davis.

Republican Vindicator, September 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Letter from Hon. John B. Baldwin--His Testimony Before the Reconstruction Committee."
John Baldwin offers a clarification of his comments relating to Jefferson Davis's incarceration. Baldwin said only that if Davis was tried he would probably be convicted of treason, not that Davis should be tried. As long as Davis is held in prison, Baldwin argues, there can be no reconciliation between North and South.

Republican Vindicator, September 14, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
A lengthy rebuttal of the views of John B. Baldwin, as expressed in a letter in another column of the Vindicator and in his testimony before the Reconstruction Committee. The editor is adamant that the conflict was a civil war and not a rebellion, because it "was emphatically a movement of the people . . . in which the leaders were their servants."

Valley Virginian, September 26, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Danger to the Republic."
This article argues that Reconstruction threatens to undermine the American Republic, and reminds readers of the words of Washington against parties, factions, and tyranny.

Valley Virginian, September 26, 1866, p. 2, c. 3: "Hon. J. B. Baldwin."
This excerpt from a letter by John B. Baldwin outlines his views on Reconstruction and the proposed 14th Amendment.

Republican Vindicator, September 28, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Disparages those who warn of an impending conflict between the North and the South, claiming that Southerners are "but silent spectators of the passing events in this country, with no voice in its affairs."

Valley Virginian, October 10, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "What are We to Do?"
The editors declare that the political situation is dire for the South. After meeting defeat on the battlefield, their "independence" is threatened by the policies of Congressional Republicans. The only solution lies in work, and development of the South's manufactures and trade.

Republican Vindicator, October 12, 1866, p. 1, c. 4: "Letter from the Hon. J. B. Baldwin."
Augusta native John Baldwin responds to frequent editorial comment from the Richmond Enquirer, which has been critical of his testimony before the Reconstruction Committee pertaining to secession. Baldwin argues that given the current political situation of the South, unity is more important than disputing theories of secession.

Staunton Spectator, October 16, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Work and Not Repine."
Argues that "the people of the South" should make no more concessions to "the dominant party North" but suggests that instead "their minds should be directed to the development of the practical and material interests of the South."

Staunton Spectator, November 20, 1866, p. 2, c. 2: "Signs of War."
The author claims to "scent brimstone and saltpetre" in the plans of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Union and anticipates "Armageddon" soon. The article also suggests that General Butler is "at the bottom of this revolutionary project."

Republican Vindicator, November 23, 1866, p. 2, c. 1
Faced with the prospect of continued "Federal Dominance," the editors contend that the South cannot rely on any "extraneous" help to rebuild. Instead, the South must become self-sufficient and rely on its extensive natural wealth.

Valley Virginian, February 6, 1867, p. 1, c. 6: "The Only Cure."
The Valley Virginian seconds the contention of the Charlottesville Chronicle that the reunion of North and South will be neither easy nor swift. The memories of war are too fresh, and the political situation too bitter. Only with time and an agreement to reopen trade and commerce rather than dwell on politics will reunion be achieved.

Staunton Spectator, February 12, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "New Plan of Reconstruction."
Contends that the South is in no position to offer terms to the North, advocating instead that the South simply accept whatever the Radicals implement and "await the ultimate reversal of it either by the Supreme Court or a future Congress."

Republican Vindicator, February 15, 1867, p. 2, c. 2
Denouncing the revised terms of the proposed constitutional amendment, the editors call on southerners to continue their resistance to the imposition of any radical-inspired scheme to re-admit the former rebel states.

Staunton Spectator, February 19, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "Military Governments for the South."
Characterizes the Reconstruction Bill as "a plan for the subjection, forever, of the Southern States to an absolute and irresponsible military government." Includes a copy of the "remarkable and iniquitous bill."

Staunton Spectator, February 26, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "Southern Loyalists."
Excoriates Southerners who call themselves loyalists and warns that "negroes, if invested with the right of suffrage . . . would inevitably prefer a man of their own color" to a white Radical.

Valley Virginian, February 27, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "Remember."
The paper "reminds" its readers that the South was is in the right, and no concessions will halt the "despotism" imposed by the Radicals.

Staunton Spectator, March 5, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Our Mother, Virginia."
Uses a highly sexualized comparison of "the honor of a State" and "the virtue of a woman" to advocate the rejection of the constitutional amendment.

Staunton Spectator, March 5, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Proper View."
Argues that if relief "from the tyrannical oppressions of the Radical party" will only occur when sentiment in the North changes, the current suffering of the South may "prove the most efficient means for bringing about the destruction of that party which has perpetrated these enormities."

Staunton Spectator, March 12, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Our Duty and Policy--Reaction in the North."
Argues that Southerners can effect a change in Northern sentiment only by resisting encroachment on their constitutional rights. If, however, Southerners give "consent to acts violative of the Constitution and subversive of their own rights" then they will certainly be plunged into "the darkness of despotism."

Valley Virginian, March 13, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "Close Up The Ranks."
This article from the Examiner calls for unity among white southerners in the face of radical reconstruction. The paper predicts that their political clout cannot last long.

Valley Virginian, March 27, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Great Future."
This article encourages white Virginians to act as their Anglo-Saxon ancestors did by persevering and overcoming obstacles in times of trouble.

Valley Virginian, April 3, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "How they Missed It."
This article asserts that the North missed a chance to surprise and impress the world by quickly and graciously reuniting with the defeated South.

Valley Virginian, April 24, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "The Result of Inaction."
This article asserts that those who counsel inaction in the face of Reconstruction would betray the Confederate dead and the Confederate veterans by opening Virginia to rule by blacks and radicals.

Valley Virginian, May 8, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "Hon. John Baldwin on the Situation."
John Baldwin urged Virginia's white leaders to face the "threatening" future by providing leadership over both races.

Valley Virginian, June 26, 1867, p. 2, c. 2: "The Onward Course."
This editorial reassures readers that much of the political excitement and proposed radical policy will have little lasting effect. Only the abolition of slavery marks a serious change, and even that brought some good in the form of the possibility for material prosperity and industrial growth. Eventually the North will leave southerners to work out their own laws and govern their own race relations.

Staunton Spectator, July 23, 1867, p. 2, c. 1: "Centuries and the Hours."
Castigates the principle of "cooperation" that has emerged in some parts of Virginia, suggesting instead that white Southerners rely on "the patient fortitude of a heroic people" to eventually sway Northern public opinion.

Staunton Spectator, September 24, 1867, p. 2, c. 3: "The Situation."
Argues that the Radical plan of Reconstruction, if carried out, would mean that "vice, ignorance, and rapacity, inflamed by the animosities of race and caste, will be enthroned." The author also excoriates "co-operationists" for "servilely hugging our unconstitutional, intolerable, ruinous chains."

Valley Virginian, October 9, 1867, p. 2, c. 4: "The Leadership of the South."
This selection from the Washington Express argues that, with much of the old leadership class disfranchised, it becomes even more imperative that those remaining southerners of "education" and "culture" must take leadership roles. They must especially move to care for the Freedmen or the Radicals will step in and gain influence among them.