150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of March 19, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, March 19, 1862 (volume 25, number 1264)

Latest News

Gen. McClellan issued a stirring address to his soldiers on Friday. He says he has held them back that they might give the death-blow to the rebellion, and the moment for action has now arrived.

The official account of the battle at New Madrid reports that the rebels were completely routed and dispersed. They left twenty pieces of heavy artillery, thirty-two batteries of field artillery, an immense quantity of fixed ammunition, thousands of small arms, hundreds of boxes of musket cartridges, mules, tents, and an immense quantity of other property not less than a million of dollars in value. Our loss during the siege of the place was fifty killed and wounded.

Com. Foote left Cairo on Saturday bound down the river. His destination is probably Island No. 10, just below New Madrid. If the enemy will stay on the Island long enough for the gallant Commodore to get to them, we shall be likely to hear good news from that quarter very soon.

Some of the enemy are still lurking on the Lower Potomac in the neighborhood of Acquia Creek.

According to what is supposed to be reliable information, the rebels had one hundred and fifty thousand men at and near Manassas. There was no talk of evacuating Manassas until after the fall of Fort Donelson.

The contrabands at Fortress Monroe are placed under the care of Mr. Charles B. Wilder, in accordance with instructions from the war department.

The President has approved the new Article of War forbidding officers in the army and all persons in the military service from returning fugitive slaves.

The down train on the Hudson river railroad met with a sad accident on Saturday. The Ninety-fourth regiment was on board. Five cars were thrown into the water near Tivoli by a broken rail. Four soldiers and a civilian were killed. Ten men were injured.

Important War Movements

Four war orders from the President, of different dates, were published simultaneously last week. The first of these directed that on the 22d of February a general movement along the whole line from the Potomac to the Mississippi should be made. By another order four military departments are created. The “Mountain Department,” which embraces the mountainous region of Western Virginia and Eastern Kentucky and Tennessee is placed under the command of Gen. Fremont. Gen. McClellan is relieved form the general command, and has taken his place at the head of the grand army of the Potomac. It will be seen that the important military movements which have been so gloriously successful within the last month are the results of pre-arranged plans at Washington. McClellan hast week followed on the heels of the retreating rebels to Manassas, where his army is now quartered. They have concentrated their forces at Gordonsville, sixty-one miles south of Manassas and seventy-six miles from Richmond.

The Fight at Island No. 10

ITS CAPTURE

Another Victory in Arkansas

Cairo, March 16.

The reporter of the press, now aboard the flag ship, two miles above Island No. 10, sends the following :

The flotilla got under way at 5:30 this morning, and dropped down slowly till about 7 o’clock, when the flag ship, being about twenty miles ahead, and six miles above the Island, discovered a stern wheel steamer run out from the shelter of a point of Kentucky shore, and steam down the river.

Four shells were thrown after her, but the distance was [too] great for effect. At 9, the fleet rounded to about three miles above the Island. The commodore then ordered three of the mortar boats into position. At this hour, (2 p.m.) we are within range, but as yet nothing has been heard from the enemy.

Cairo, March 16, p.m.

Com. Foote is shelling the rebels at Island No. 10. Gen. Pope’s batteries prevent their escape down the river.

They are said to be 15,000 to 20,000 strong.

The rebel gunboats are understood to be engaging Gen. Pope’s batteries.

St. Louis, March 17.

In response to a serenade, to-night, Gen. Halleck announced that Island No. 10 is ours with all the ammunition and transports the enemy had there.

He said also, that another victory had been gained in Arkansas, in which three rebel Colonels were captured. The particulars have not transpired.

Battle of Pea Ridge

Springfield, Mo., March 12th.—A special to the St. Louis Republican says that a messenger has arrived bringing additional news of the battle at Sugar Creek. Contrary to General Curtis’ (?) he was attacked on the north side of that river in his rear where he had placed his trains. The attack was made by 2,000 rebel cavalry, who were resisted by eight hundred men under Seigel, who alternately retreated and stopped until the trains were pushed to the main body of the army.  While thus engaged he was three times surrounded, but cut his way through each time. He did the principal fighting on Thursday, but on Friday the engagement became general ; Colonel Carr’s division suffering most, being most exposed.

Colonels Asboth and Carr were both wounded in the arm. Colonel Herron, of the 9th Iowa, was taken prisoner, but was killed in jumping from the wagon while trying to escape.

Of the rebels Gen. McCulloch was killed, Gen. Stack dangerously wounded, McIntosh killed, Col. B. H. Rives dangerously wounded, Col. Herbert, of the 3d Louisiana killed or dangerously wounded ; Gen. Sterling Price, slightly wounded.

Thirteen pieces of artillery were captured by us, among them one lost by Siegel at Wilson’s Creek. Our loss is regarded as 800 killed or wounded. The rebel loss unknown, supposed to be from 2 to 3000. We have about 1500 rebel prisoners.

Gen. Price, with 1000 men, retreated northward and then took an easterly direction. Gen. Jeff. C. Davis is after him.

Ben. McCulloch

The official report of Gen. Curtis states that Ben. McCulloch fell during the battle of Pea Ridge. But we must not be too ready to believe he was slain. At least once before he was reported killed, and not only killed but embalmed, and not only embalmed but immersed in whiskey. He came to life again, perhaps on account of the whiskey, and it is not impossible that Ben. May be discovered alive again some where in Arkansas.

The Evacuation of Manassas

Its Occupation by Our Troops

Centreville, March 11.—Yesterday morning our forces, amounting to upwards of 2,000, proceeded to Centreville and occupied the village about 4 P.M. It was altogether deserted. The entire command thence proceeded to Manassas, arriving there in the evening. The rebels destroyed as much of their property as they could not carry away by fire and otherwise. The bridges, railroad track and depot in that vicinity were extensively damaged, and nothing but wreck and desolation was apparent.

There is now satisfactory evidence that the main body of rebels left their lines nearly two weeks ago.

The roads in Virginia in some places are tolerably good and improving. The whereabouts of the Manassas rebels is a subject of earnest speculation.

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Philadelphia, March 13.

The specials to the Inquirer state that Beauregard is appointed commander-in-chief of the rebel army and the evacuation of Manassas was at his suggestion. It is further said that he has arrived at Richmond.

A dispatch to the Inquirer states that the Hampton Legion left Fredericksburg the 12^th bound south. The line of the Rappahannock has been deserted by the rebels, and balloon reconnoisances from Pohick Church show no enemy within thirty miles.

Address of Gen. McClellan to his Army

Washington, March 15.—The following thrilling and patriotic address was to-day issued by Gen. McClellan to the soldiers of the Potomac Army :–

Headquarters of the Army of the Potomac,

Fairfax Court House, Va., March 14, 1862.

Soldiers of the Army of the Potomac : –For a long time I have kept you inactive, but not without a purpose. You were to be disciplined, armed and instructed. The formidable artillery you now have had to be created. Other armies were to move and accomplish certain results. I have held you back that you might give the death blow to the rebellion that has distracted our once happy country.

The patience you have shown, and your confidence in your General are worth a dozen victories. These preliminary results are now accomplished. I feel that the patient labors of many months have produced their fruit. The Army of the Potomac is now a real army, magnificent in material, admirable in discipline and instruction, and excellently equipped and armed. Your commanders are all that I could wish. The moment for action has arrived, and I know that I can trust in you to save our country. As I ride through your ranks I see in your faces the sure prestige of victory. I feel that you will do whatever I ask of you. The period of inaction has passed. I will bring you now face to face with the rebels, and only pray that God may defend the right !

In whatever direction you may move, however strange my actions may appear to you, ever bear in mind that my fate is linked with yours, and that all I do is to bring you where I know you wish to be—on the decisive battle-field. It is my business to place you there. I am to watch over you as a parent over his children, and you know that your General loves you from the depths of his heart. It shall be my care—it has ever been—to gain success with the least possible loss. But I know that if it is necessary, you will willingly follow me to our graves for our righteous cause.

God smiles upon us ! Victory attends us ! Yet I would not have you think that our aim is to be obtained without a manly struggle. I will not disguise it from you, that you have brave foes to encounter—foemen well worthy of the steel that you will use so well. I shall demand of you great heroic exertions, rapid and long marches, desperate combats, privations perhaps. We will share all these together, and when this sad war is over we will all return to our homes, and feel that we can ask no higher honor than the proud consciousness that we belonged to the Army of the Potomac.

Geo. B. McClellan,

Major General Commanding.

Iron Ships

The battle between the Monitor and the Merrimac will produce a revolution in our naval system, and in that of every other maritime nation. Wooden ships will henceforth be considered out of date and of inferior value. Nothing but iron can withstand iron, and a single small vessel like the Monitor would prove more than a match for a whole fleet of what have been considered first class wooden ships.

Cost of the Monitor

The iron-clad Monitor, which proved more than a match for the Merrimac, cost only $275,000.

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The Providence Journal thinks our naval officers at Hampton Roads or the Navy Department at Washington were very remiss in not being better prepared for the Merrimac. It was known to them some days before her appearance that she was about ready. Gen. Wool had authentic information to that effect and had transmitted it to Washington.

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Orders have issued from the navy department to clothe the new sloop-of-war Adirondack with iron mail. With her armor on, this vessell will draw only thirteen feet of water.

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The Mystic iron gunboat is now at Greenpoint, L. I., receiving her machinery and some heavier plating on her bows. Crowds of visitors have been attracted to see her.

From Europe

The Africa arrived on Friday. Earl Russel, in a dispatch to Lord Lyons, dated Feb. 15, and now just published, says that the fact that various ships may have eluded the blockade does not of itself prevent the blockade from being effective. In the House of Commons, Earl Russel said there had been no communications with foreign governments relative to the blockade. The British government has entered into no negotiations relative to the Atlantic telegraph—The insurrection in Greece remains as it was. Nauplia still holds out, and it is reported another garrison has revolted. Athens is tranquil, but certain streets are occupied by the military.—Discussion in the French Chamber excited the greatest interest. Prince Napoleon asked for the suppression of the temporal power of the Pope. The ministry declared it would explain the policy of the government on a future occasion.

From Mexico

News just received from Mexico is that the English forces are to leave the country, and the Spanish troops had returned from the interior. An American citizen belonging in Lowell, Ma., named A. T. Arlen, was murdered Feb. 24, going from Vera Cruz to Mexico. He was the bearer of dispatches from Washington to Minister Corwin.

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Madame Beaufort and James H. Harper have been guilty of indiscretions in Chicago that occasioned their trial for procuring abortion. After a hard fight they were acquitted of that charge, but held for adultery. They immediately got married, and so the second count fell to the ground.

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The Union Senatorial Convention for the nomination of a candidate for Senator from this, the 18th, district is called to meet at the McDonough House next week on Thursday.

The First Boat of the Season

The steam ferry boat between Middletown and Portland reached the latter place on Wednesday last. A passage was cut through the ice. The boat has been painted and put in good trim during the winter.

Sale of Real Estate

The dwelling house in College street, belonging to the estate of the late Nathaniel Bacon, and which was his residence for many years, was sold a few days since for $2,525. Doct. Charles Dyer was the purchaser.

Miscellaneous

John Randolph was one of the most sarcastic men that ever lived. One time, a young man attempted to make his acquaintance. He obtained an introduction, and among other remarks said, ‘I passed by your house, lately, Mr. Randolph.’ ‘Did you? Well, I hope you always will,’ was the unmistakable reply.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of March 12, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, March 12, 1862 (volume 25, number 1263)

Latest News

We have important news from the Upper and the Lower Potomac. Leesburgh is now in possession of the national forces. Col. Geary left Lovettsville on Friday night with his whole command, marched through Wheatland and Waterford, and on Sunday entered Leesburgh with flags flying and bayonets fixed. The rebels retreated precipitately from the town and the surrounding forts. On the Lower Potomac, at Cockpit Point, on Sunday afternoon, our gunboats opened fire on the rebel batteries. The rebels burnt their tents and evacuated the place, which was taken possession of by our men. The so-called blockade of the Potomac is virtually raised.

Gen. Burnside is at work in earnest. He had occupied Winton in force, and was moving on to Suffolk, only a few miles from Norfolk. The rebels had concentrated a strong force at Suffolk. It is represented that Norfolk was in a state of great excitement and dread.

A dispatch from Denver City gives news of a desperate battle on the 21st ult. in New Mexico, near Fort Craig, between the rebels under Gen. Sibley and the national forces under Col. Canby. The battle was not decisive and both sides claimed to have been victorious. It is believed the national troops were ultimately victorious, as Kit Carson, with reinforcements, was only fifteen miles distant. Capt. McRae, who had charge of the national artillery, and all his command were killed at their posts, and the cannon captured.

New Madrid in Southeastern Missouri, where the rebels have from five to ten thousand men, supported by four gunboats, has been completely invested by Gen. Pope.

Gen. Lander’s funeral was attended in Salem, Ms., on Friday afternoon.

The great news of the week is the fight on the Potomac with the Merrimac, particulars of which are given elsewhere. The latest accounts state that the principal loss of life was on board the Cumberland, where it is thought as many as 150 were killed or drowned. Six lives were lost on the Minnesota.

The capture of Brunswick, Ga., and Fernandina, Fa., by Com. Dupont is announced. This gives Government control of the whole coast of Georgia from South Carolina to Florida. The rebels made but little resistance.

It is rumored and believed in Washington that the rebel army is retreating from Centreville and Manassas.

Important from Fortress Monroe !

FIRST APPEARANCE OF THE MERRIMAC.

Engagement with Two of our Frigates.

The Cumberland cut in Two !

Baltimore, March 9—The inhabitants at Old Point were startled, Saturday, at about 10 o’clock, by the announcement that a mysterious vessel, supposed to be the Merrimac, looking like a submerged house with the roof only above water, was moving down from Norfolk by the channel in front of Sewell’s Point battery.

Signal guns were fired by the Cumberland and Congress to notify the Minnesota, St. Lawrence and Roanoke of approaching danger, and all was excitement in and about Fortress Monroe. There was nothing protruding above the water but the flagstaff flying the rebel flag, and short smokestack. She moved slowly along, and, turning into the channel leading to Newport News, steamed direct for the frigates Cumberland and Congress, which were lying at the mouth of James River. As soon as she came within range of the Cumberland, she opened on her with her heavy guns, but the balls struck and glanced off, having no more effect on her than peas from a pop gun. Her ports were all closed, and she moved on in silence, but with full head of steam. In the meantime, as the Merrimac was approaching two frigates on one side, the iron-clad steamers Yorktown and Jamestown came down James river and engaged our frigates on the other side. The batteries at Newport News also opened on the Jamestown and Yorktown, and did all in their power to assist the Cumberland and Congress which, being sailing vessels, were at the mercy of the approaching steamers.

The Merrimac, in the meantime, came slowly on her course and slowly approached the Cumberland, when she and the Congress, at a distance of 100 yards, raised full broad sides on the iron-clad monster. The shot took no effect, glancing upwards and flying off, having only the effect of checking her progress for a moment. After receiving the first broadside of the two frigates, she ran on to the Cumberland, striking her about midships, and literally laying open her sides. She then fired a broadside into the disabled ship and again dashed against her with her iron-clad prow and, knocking in her side, left her to sink while she engaged the Congress, which laid about 1/4 of a mile distant. The Congress, which had in the meantime kept up a sharp engagement with the Yorktown and Jamestown, seeing the hopelessness of resisting the iron-clad steamer, at once struck her colors. Her crew had been discharged several days since, and three companies of the naval brigade had been put on board temporarily till she could be relieved by the St. Lawrence, which was to have gone up, on Monday, to take her place, as one of the blockading vessels of the James river. On the Congress striking her colors, the Jamestown approached and took from on board of her all the officers as prisoners, but allowed the crew to escape in boats. The vessel was thus cleared and then fired by the rebels.

Fortress Monroe, March 9th, 6:45 P. M.

To Hon. Gideon Welles, Secretary of the Navy :

The Monitor arrived at 10 P. M., yesterday, and went immediately to the protection of the Minnesota, lying aground just opposite Newport News. At 7 A. M., to-day, the Merrimac, accompanied by the two wooden steamers and several tugs, stood out towards the Minnesota and opened fire. The Monitor met them at once and opened fire, when all the enemy’s vessels retired except the Merrimac. These two iron-clad vessels fought, part of the time touching each other, from 8 A. M., to noon, when the Merrimac retired. Whether she is injured or not it is impossible to say.

Lieut. J. S. Worden, who commanded the Monitor, handled her with great skill, assisted by chief-engineer Stumens. Lieut. Worden was injured by the cement from the pilot-house being driven into his eyes, but not seriously. The Minnesota kept up a continuous fire, and is herself somewhat injured. She was removed considerably to-day, and will probably be off to night.

The Monitor is uninjured and ready at any moment to repel another attack.

G. V. Fox, Asst. Sec. Navy.

Message of the President

Gradual Emancipation

Washington, March 6.—The President, to-day, transmitted to Congress the following message :

Fellow Citizens of the Senate and House of Representatives : I recommend the adoption of a joint resolution by your honorable bodies, which shall be substantially as follows : “Resolved, That the United States ought to co-operate with any State which may adopt a gradual abolishment of slavery, giving each State pecuniary aid to be used by such State in its discretion to compensate for the inconveniences, public and private, produced by such a change of system.” If the proposition does not meet the approval of Congress and the country there is the end. But if it does meet with such approval, I deem it of importance that the States and people immediately interested should be at once notified of the fact, that they may begin to consider whether to accept or reject it. The Federal Government would find its highest interest in such a measure as one of the most efficient means of self-preservation.

The leaders of the existing insurrection hope that the Government will ultimately be forced to acknowledge the independence of some parts of the disaffected region, and that all the Slave States north of such parts will then say, “The Union, for which we have struggled being gone, we now choose to go with the Southern section.” To deprive them of this hope substantially ends the rebellion, and the initiation of emancipation completely deprives them of it, and to all the States initiating it. The point is not that all the States tolerating slavery would very soon, if at all, initiate emancipation, but that while the offer is equally made to all, the more northern shall by such initiation make it certain to the more southern that in no event will the former ever join the latter in their proposed Confederacy.

In my judgment gradual and not sudden emancipation is better for all. In the more financial or pecuniary view any member of Congress, with the census tables and the treasury reports before him, can readily see for himself how very soon the current expenditures of this war would purchase at a fair valuation all the slaves in any named States. Such a proposition on the part of the general government sets up no claim of a right by Federal authority to interfere with slavery within State limits, referring, as it does, the absolute control of the subject in each case to the state and people immediately interested. It is proposed as a matter of perfectly free choice with them. In the annual message last December, I thought fit to say the Union must be preserved and hence all indispensable means must be employed. I said this not hastily but deliberately. War has been and continues to be an indispensable means to this end. A practical reacknowledgement of the national authority would render the war unnecessary and it would at once cease. It, however, resistance continues, the war must also continue and it is impossible to foresee all the incidents which may attend and all the ruin which may follow it. Such as may seem indispensable or may obviously promise great efficiency towards the end of the struggle must and will come. The proposition is now made as an offer only. I hope it may be esteemed no offense to ask whether the pecuniary consideration tendered would not be of more value to the States and private persons concerned than are the institution and investments in it in the present aspect of affairs. While it is true that the adoption of the proposed resolution would be merely initiatory and not within itself a practical measure, it is tendered in the hope that it would soon lead to important results.

In the full view of my great responsibility to my God and my country, I earnestly beg the attention of Congress and the people to the subject.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN

Special Message on Emancipation

President Lincoln has had the manly courage to propose in a special message to Congress, a plan of gradual emancipation. He is the first President of the United States who has done this, and this message will probably mark the beginning of a new era in the domestic legislation of the country. The plan proposed is not liable to any constitutional objection. It will, moreover, be heartily welcomed by many thousands in the southern states, who will see here a feasible mode of deliverance from difficulties which a few months ago appeared insuperable.—Should this plan be adopted by Congress, the border states would have a fair opportunity of throwing an undivided influence on the side of the government, and would soon rid themselves of traitors who love slavery better than the Union.

The Tax Bill

The long expected tax bill was reported to the House on the 3d inst. If this bill becomes a law, the people will have an opportunity of learning what actual taxation means. Some of the items are : spirituous liquors 15 cents per gallon, printing paper 3 mills per pound, flour 10 cents a barrel, steamboat travel 1 mill per mile, use of carriages from $1 to $10 annually, according to value, gold watches $1 per annum, silver watches 50 cents per annum, incomes 3 per cent on all over $600. The bill provides for the appointment of a Commissioner of Internal Revenue.

Nothing but taxation such as is proposed can save the credit of the national treasury. The treasury bills authorized by Congress must have just this support to save them from depreciation. This is the price the country pays for the preservation of the Union and the constitution.

LATEST

Gen. Price’s Army Defeated !

The following news has just been received, contained in an official dispatch to Maj. Gen. McClellan, under date of St. Louis, March 10.

“The army of the Southwest under Gen. Curtis, after three days of hard fighting, has gained a most glorious victory over the combined forces of Van Dorn, McCulloch, Price and McIntosh. Our loss in killed and wounded, is estimated at 1000 ; that of the enemy was still larger. Guns, flags and provisions were captured in large quantities. Our cavalry are in pursuit of the flying enemy.

H. W. Halleck, Maj. Gen.”

Excluded

The State Constitutional Convention of Illinois have adopted a provision prohibiting negroes and mulattoes from emigrating into the state.

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Diptheria is making terrible ravages in some parts of Maine, many families losing two, three and four children each. In Patten 40 families have suffered bereavement from this cause, and 1 in 12 of the population have died, mostly children. At Freedom, William Blackstone, 20 years of age, died while walking the room, endeavoring to breathe.

For the War and Union

For several years there has been a well-known fish merchant in this city, named Charles Hill. He never hired any store, and he never had any particular place of business. About the whole of his capital was invested in his stock in trade and a wheelbarrow, and he always had the advantage of locating himself where there were the most customers. In the warm weather Charley got along, but every winter he managed to get free lodgings in the county workhouse. As soon as winter came, he made his appearance at the charitable institution in Haddam under a proper escort, with a certificate entitling him to a residence for the next two or three months. It appears that Mr. Hill has been unfortunate in his domestic affairs. His wife was a thorn in his side, and that may have been one reason why he preferred a separate residence during the winter. About two years ago, however, he obtained a divorce from his “better or worse” half, became a single man again, but still kept up his old habits of spending the summer in Middletown and the winter in Haddam. As usual, Mr. Hill has, through the past season, enjoyed the public advantages of the workhouse, and has the right to stay some time longer. But he and his friends have just come to an arrangement which it is hoped will be permanent. He agreed to enlist in the U. States service, and marry his divorced wife. The nuptial tie was tied yesterday by his Honor, Horace Clark.

Pameacha

Preparations have been made during the winter for the erection of the stone bridge over the Pameacha. Messrs. Johnson and Arnold, the contractors, have hauled from Portland on the ice an immense quantity of stone, which has been deposited in the neighborhood of the old bridge. Business promises to be pretty brisk in that spot when the frost gets out of the ground.

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Abstract of records of Marriages, Births and Deaths, town of Middletown for 1861.

Whole number of marriages	97
Both parties American	58
do   do   foreign	34
Am. Male and foreign female	2
Foreign male and Am. female	3
ppp
Whole number of births	230
“     “    “    males	107
“     “    “    females	123
bbbb
Whole number of deaths	181
“     “     “     males	73
“     “     “     females	108

Principal causes of death.  Accident 3 ; Apoplexy 6 ; Brain dis. 7 ; Consumption 29 ; Croup 5 ; Cholera Infantum 4 ; Cancer 9 ; Diptheria 11 ; Diarrhea 3 ; Dysentery 3 ; Dropsy 4 ; Puerperal fever 4 ; Scarlet fever 15 ; Typhoid fever 7 ; Heart dis. 5 ; old age 9 ; Pneumonia 11 ; Still born 11.

Attest,

E. W. N. Starr, Registrar.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of March 5, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, March 5, 1862 (volume 25, number 1262)

Latest News

General Buell telegraphed to Gen. McClellan on Saturday night that Murfreesborough had been abandoned by the rebels, who were retreating along the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad, tearing up the rails as they went along. It is probable they are concentrating in Chattanooga, Tenn., near the Georgia line.

There is a great change in public sentiment in Tennessee, and the Government is about to raise volunteers in that state.

The Tennessee and Cumberland rivers will be opened this week to free and unrestrained commerce.

Gen. Banks’ army occupied Harper’s Ferry on Wednesday, and on Thursday pushed on a reconnoisance to Charlestown. The troops took over all the necessaries for a permanent stay. One object of the movement is probably to cover the reconstruction of the Baltimore and Ohio railroad.

The death of Brig. Gen. Lander was announced yesterday. He died in camp at Pau Pau, Western Virginia, on Sunday afternoon. He is succeeded by Gen. Shields.

Col. Corcoran is said to be on his way to Richmond to be exchanged.

The news this (Tuesday) morning is not of special interest. The election at Nashville on Saturday for municipal officers passed off quietly. Twenty-five negroes seized in the vicinity of Bowling Green have been recaptured at Nashville and sent back. There was a fight on the Tennessee, 8 miles above Savannah, between two national gunboats and a shore battery, when the latter was silenced. A strong Union feeling exists in that vicinity. The rebel Generals, Buckner and Tilghman, arrived in Boston yesterday afternoon.

Inauguration of Jeff. Davis

The 22d of February witnessed in Richmond the senseless and barren ceremony of the inauguration of Jeff. Davis as President of the so-called confederate states for six years. Spectators of the affair say it was a heartless proceeding, no cheers could be raised, and nobody felt the least enthusiasm. In his inaugural, Davis talks as if he actually expected to escape his doom for six years to come, and reign in Richmond all that time. He treats the splendid national victories of the west, as comparatively trifling affairs, which can have no effect whatever towards weakening his confederacy. He predicts that Maryland will soon unite her destiny with the South, and says the time is near at hand when the North must sink under the load of debt which they have incurred. In speaking of the grievances of the South and various political matters, there is noticeable a singular agreement between the opinions of Jeff. Davis and those of the ultra democrats of this state.

Nashville Taken

There is no longer a doubt that Nashville is in our possession—both National and Rebel reports agree as to that point. The evacuation by the rebels appears to have been attended by their usual excesses. A dispatch from Clarksville states that the rebel soldiers plundered many dwellings and business houses, and excited great alarm among the people. Several rebels were shot by citizens whom they were in the act of robbing. Gov. Harris, it is asserted, was actually driven away by the Union men. Before he left, he made a speech recommending citizens to burn their private property, and calling upon Tennesseeans to rally and meet him at Memphis, but no one paid any heed to him. Much indignation existed against Floyd, who destroyed the railroad bridge against the protest of the citizens. Gen. Nelson is reported to be in command at Nashville, Gen. Buell being still on the north side of the Cumberland. The Union sentiment in the city is very strong.

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War Department, Washington, Feb. 25.

Ordered—First, from and after the 26th day of February inst., the President, by virtue of the act of Congress, takes military possession of all the telegraph lines in the United States.

Second, all telegraphic communications in regard to military operations, not expressly authorized by the war department, the general commanding, or the generals commanding the armies in the field in the several departments, are absolutely forbidden.

Third, all newspapers publishing the military news, however obtained, and by whatever medium received, not authorized by the official authority mentioned in the preceding paragraph, will be excluded thereafter from receiving information by telegraph, or from transmitting their papers by railroad.

Fourth, Edward S. Sanford, is made military supervisor of telegraphic messages throughout the United States, and Anson Stager is made military superintendent of all telegraph lines and offices in the United States.

Fifth, this possession and control of the telegraph lines is not intended to interfere in any respect with the ordinary affairs of the companies.

By order of the President,

Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War.

A State of Suspense

The embargo laid upon the telegraph and the press leaves the community for a time in great suspense. Of course, the suddenness and peremptoriness of the order lead most people to the conclusion that important movements have commenced, which it is desirable to keep as secret as possible at least for a few days. What the movements are, no one outside the War Department or army can be presumed to know, and yet every one is anxious to learn. One thing, however, is truly gratifying, viz : the universal confidence expressed that General McClellan’s plans have so far been carried out that his own time for action has come, and that he will embrace it as promptly and turn it to as good an account as any of his brave and victorious subordinates have done. All we can do is to wait and to wait hopefully. No doubt so soon as it is safe or prudent to communicate the doings of whatever new division of the army is now set in motion, at least a brief official announcement thereof will be furnished to the Associated Press for publication. But whether this will be to-day or to-morrow or next week this deponent saith not.—Commercial Advertiser, Feb. 28.

The Treasury Note Bill

On Wednesday, the President affixed his signature to the Loan and Treasury Bill, which had been perfected by Congress the day before, and it is now the law of the land. It creates a national currency of U. States notes of five dollars and upwards, made lawful money and a legal tender for all debts. The total amount authorized to be issued is not to exceed $150,000,000, including the $60,000 of U. States notes issued under the act of July 17. The loan authorized by this act is limited to $500,000,000. It is in the form of a twenty years six per cent. stock redeemable at the pleasure of the government at any time after five years at the par value thereof. As soon as this bill was passed by Congress there was quite a flurry in Wall street. The six per cents went up at once to a higher notch, and the demand notes were actually held by the banks for a premium.

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San Francisco, Feb. 27.—The weather throughout the northern coast has been very cold. Many persons on the way from Portland to the mines have been frozen to death.

Thousands who left California for the New El Dorado are detained at Portland until the spring opens.

The whale-ship Joseph Grinnell has arrived from Palta, Peru, with 1,500 bbls of sperm oil.

Also arrived ship Charger, forty-nine days from Hong Kong.

Gen. Mansfield on Contrabands

A commission having been appointed to inquire into the condition of the numerous contrabands at Fortress Monroe, who are now held by the government under partial control, Gen. Mansfield wrote a letter to the commission, stating his views on the subject. He divides the negroes into four classes, comprising those abandoned by their owners ; those who have run away from their masters to obtain freedom ; those who have been put at work on rebel entrenchments and made their escape ; and free negroes seeking employment. He then argues the point whether the United States is bound to hold them as slaves, on which he says :

“It is clear they are not prisoners of war, for they have never been found in arms, and have made their escape to avoid taking part against the United States, or have been abandoned to the United States, as the rebels have abandoned lands, houses, cattle, &c., and are human beings cast on the world with nothing but their hands to obtain a livelihood. Some of them having worked on rebel fortifications, &c., are released (under the 4th section of the act of Congress of the 6th August, 1861, to confiscate property) from further service to their masters—and in such cases what is their position? Why, simply that of any person in the country released by law from the payment of an obligation—a free person.”

After stating that if the claim of the rebels to the negroes as property be valid, they are therefore confiscated, he says :

“But they are not property, but persons held to labor under the constitution in certain states, and nowhere else ; and are not bound or held to labor for the United States, consequently they are not slaves to the United States. It is clear the condition of slaves with them was coexistent with the obligations of the confederate slave states to the constitution and laws of the United States, against which they are in open armed rebellion.

Now what are these negroes ? Are they not freemen by this state of rebellion ? By the act of secession, the confederate states have voluntarily broken the constitution and laws of the Union, and have taken up arms against that constitution and those laws, and the United States are thereby absolved from the enforcement of the fugitive slave law, even if so absurd a claim were put forth. If this statement be true, they are entitled as laborers, to all the wages they can earn, and to go where they please, and I would recommend that all their earnings be paid to them while in the United States employ, and that all officers and others who employ them in this department be required to pay them a just compensation, and that they be allowed to improve their condition if opportunity should admit.”

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The funeral of Lieut. Henry M. Stillman was attended at Old Saybrook on Saturday the 22d. There was no military display, but the inhabitants of the place appeared to have nearly all come forth to do honor to the deceased. Flags were flying at half mast, and evidences of mournful sympathy were visible along the entire route of the procession. The services were performed by Rev. Mr. McCall. At the entrance to the grave yard an arch was raised, festooned with the American flag. Lieut. Stillman was killed while gallantly urging his men across a wide ditch immediately in front of the enemy’s entrenchments. He fell pierced by a ball through the lungs, and only lived long enough to murmur a prayer for his wife and children.

Recruiting

Several officers of the 1st Regiment Connecticut Artillery are now recruiting for their Regiment in this state. Lieut. John M. Twiss is recruiting in this city, and Lieut. Roswell S. Douglas has been assigned to Middlesex County. Lieut. George D. Sargeant performs the same duties in Litchfield county. The two latter were members of the Wesleyan University previous to their enlistment. Any who may desire to enlist have now an opportunity to join one of the best regiments in the United States service.

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A fire broke out, Wednesday morning, in the old brewery at Norwalk. It burnt out some dozen stores ; among them three groceries, one bookstore, one shoe store, one dry goods store, and one hat store. Four or five buildings were burnt to the ground. The fire was put out by the help of Westport and Stamford engines. Loss about $75,000. The business portion of Main street was destroyed. There were 9 stores, 1 saloon, 2 millinery shops, and a number of families burnt out.

Portland

We have a communication from Portland with reference to the statement made in this paper a week or two since that Mr. Williams, a school teacher, has been fined $7 and cost for punishing one of his scholars. Our correspondent says the decision was as stated, but that the defendant has appealed the case to the Superior Court and is to be tried in Haddam in April. He acquits the teacher of all blame, and thinks he used such means as were necessary to maintain order in his school. He states that a meeting of the school visitors, held on the 15th, refused an application to annul his certificate, having on examination seen nothing by which he has rendered himself disqualified for his position.

Artemas in Town

The greatest lecture of this season, and perhaps of any other season, was given on Thursday evening by Artemas Ward (Charles Brown,) the man who exhibits wax images, and writes for the papers. The hall was crammed full, although the night was none of the pleasantest. The lecture was a series of jokes, stories and oddities. People said it did not amount to anything, but they enjoyed it amazingly. It is pretty certain that for the space of one hour, every one in the hall forgot his troubles and was on good terms with the whole world and the rest of mankind.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of February 26, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 26, 1862 (volume 25, number 1261)

Latest News

The important intelligence is telegraphed from Louisville that Cumberland Gap and Russellville, Ky., are in possession of the national forces. All of Kentucky, except Columbus, is now free from rebels.

Flag Officer Foote makes the official announcement of the occupation of Clarksville, Tenn., by the Union troops. About two thirds of the people ran away, but Com. Foote issued a proclamation assuring protection to persons and property.

Gen. Grant is now at the head of the new military district of West Tennessee—headquarters at Fort Donelson.

No reliable accounts yet from Savannah though the city is believed to be in possession of our forces.

Gen. Butler has left Boston for Fortress Monroe, where he will at once embark for Ship Island.

The steamer from Port Royal on Saturday brought 553 bales of cotton.

The papers of yesterday are filled with accounts of the celebration of the Birthday of Washington.

Gen. Grant

Brig. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, the hero of Fort Donelson, is a man of about 40 years of age. He is a native of Ohio, and a graduate of West Point, being the appointee of Wm. L. Homer from that State when a member of Congress, who was subsequently killed in the Mexican war. He was twice brevetted for gallant conduct in the Mexican war, and was in every principal battle in which it was possible for any one man to be. He was in the 4th Infantry, and resigned in 1855, and went into business in St. Louis. He subsequently moved to Galena, Ill., where is now resides, and became interested in a large leather establishment.

At the breaking out of the rebellion he immediately offered his services to the Government, and was put in command of an Illinois regiment. He participated actively in the campaign in Missouri, and obtained great credit. At the extra session his name was brought forward for a Brigadier Generalship by Mr. Washburne, of Illinois, of the House of Representatives, and the entire delegation joined in the recommendation, and he was appointed. He soon after went into command of the military district of Cairo. He has won immortal fame.

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For his brave and masterly conduct at the battle of Fort Donelson, and as soon as news of the victory had reached Washington, the Secretary of War sent the name of General Grant to the President for nomination as Major-General.

Death of the President’s Son

President Lincoln’s son William, aged about eleven years, died on Thursday evening of pneumonia.

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The injuries sustained by Com. Porter on board the gunboat Essex, in the battle of Fort Henry, are a great deal more serious than at first reported. His condition, by the latest intelligence, is such that he is not expected to recover. In addition to the scalds he received, it appears his lungs were dangerously affected by the inhalation of hot steam at the time of the explosion of the boiler of the Essex. Com. Porter has been conveyed to St. Louis.

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Gen. Buckner, lately captured at Fort Donelson, has been indicted for treason.

Reconstruction

Wendell Phillips, in his lecture on Thursday evening, said it was impossible to reconstruct the old Union according to the programme of President Lincoln and Secretary Seward. Precisely what Wendell Phillips means by a reconstruction we do not know. If he means the re-establishment of all things, including the political power of slavery, just where they were during Pierce’s and Buchanan’s administrations, then he does not mean by re construction what the President does. If he means the re-union of the thirty four states on the basis of the constitution, then he does mean by re construction what the President and Secretary of State mean by it. The administration, in this war, is aiming at one single object, the overthrow of this rebellion and the re-establishment of the authority of the government over the whole country. This is the sole and undivided object which the administration and the people have in this great contest. When that shall be accomplished it will be found that, while we have the old Union of thirty-four states there will nevertheless be a vast change in some important respects. The power which has ruled the country for twenty-five years, like a despot, will be overthrown and destroyed, and some of the high priests of that slave power will have swung on the gallows. Whatever may become of the institution of slavery itself, its death warrant as a political power is signed, sealed, and delivered, and it will receive a burial at the close of this war which shall know no resurrection. The days of Polk, Pierce and Buchanan have gone forever, and no reconstruction of the Union can ever re-establish the pernicious and wicked political theories which controlled their administrations.

The Honored Dead

The body of Col. Russell, who was killed in the battle of Roanoke, was brought to New Haven on Saturday. It was escorted to Birmingham by the Governor’s Horse Guard and other military companies of New Haven.

The body of Lieut. Stillman, who was killed in the same battle, and who belonged to the same gallant Tenth regiment, reached New Haven on Friday morning, and was taken to Saybrook for burial on Saturday.

It is stated that Col. Russell was struck by a musket ball in the left shoulder, which passed obliquely down into the left breast, lodging in or near the heart. He was reclining, resting his head on his hand, as his regiment had been ordered to lie down to avoid the fire of the enemy.

Lieut. Stillman

Among the killed at the battle of Roanoke is Lieut. Henry M. Stillman, of the Tenth Connecticut regiment. He was originally from Saybrook, and is the brother-in-law of the senior editor of the Sentinel. Some years since he resided in this city, and married here in 1854. Subsequently he moved to the west, and two years since went to New Haven. He leaves a wife and two children. He has been a member of the Methodist church for a number of years. His body together with that of Colonel Russell of the same regiment, reached Baltimore on Thursday, and was immediately sent to his friends.

22d of February

The anniversary of Washington’s birthday was duly observed in this city. Mayor Warner issued his proclamation calling upon the citizens to pay proper regard to the day, and giving notice that the bells would be rung and a national salute fired at noon and at sunset, which was done according to order. Flags were displayed from every available pole and projection, and Main street was all aglow with the national colors of red, white and blue. In the afternoon, the Mansfield Guard, under the command of Gen. Starr, made a parade. Rank and file numbered 35. They were attended by the Griffin Band, with twelve pieces. The Guard appeared remarkably well. They were dressed in a neat grey uniform, and they handled their muskets and moved over the ground as if they were used to it. Along the streets large crowds were collected here and there, and people seemed to have pretty generally turned out of doors. Small boys took a malicious delight in snowballing, and hitting anybody who happened to be a fair target. Fast horses and some very handsome turn-outs improved the good sleighing and the opportunity of being admired. Good humor prevailed everywhere, and we have heard of no accident or any other untoward event to mar the pleasure of the day.

In the evening a large meeting was held at McDonough Hall. The spacious hall would probably have been filled if it had been twice as large, and disappointed crowds went away because they could not gain admittance. Ladies were there, and took as deep an interest in the proceedings as the other sex, as of right they should, for the common cause is theirs and they have proved that they were ready to do as much for it as their husbands, brothers, and sons. A few introductory remarks were made by the Mayor. Washington’s Farewell Address was read by Prof. Hibbard. An able oration was delivered by Mr. Burton, of the Sophomore class, Wesleyan University. President Cummings made an address in which he gave a short review of the present posture of public affairs, and predicted a speedy and brilliant termination of the war. He alluded to the selfish and insulting conduct of England and said that when we had got our difficulties at home all settled, if then England showed a disposition for a quarrel, she would not find Uncle Sam at all backward for a fight. His address was interrupted by repeated cheering. Moses Culver, Esq. made an excellent speech. He referred to the causes of this war, which have been at work for many years, the encroaching and tyrannical spirit of the south which finally demanded that it should have full possession and control of the government as the only condition on which it would stay in the Union. Mr. Culver’s speech commanded the close attention of the large audience, and was now and then greeted with loud testimonials of approbation. The exercises were interspersed with several capital songs by the college glee club. (Why cannot the public have another opportunity of hearing from the glee club?) Griffin’s band was present and played a few pieces. Before ten o’clock, the programme of the evening was through with and the crowd had left the hall.

Through the evening quite a number of stores and some private dwellings were brilliantly illuminated.

Fast Ride

Monday afternoon the Messrs. Hurlbert, two young gentlemen, brothers, residing in Broad street, took their seat as usual in their sleigh to go to their place of business. The opening of an umbrella startled the horse out of his propriety, and he went off with the intention of doing all the driving for that trip. He went through Broad, down Court, and then at right angles up Water street, to the foot of Washington street where they succeeded in bringing him to. Nobody hurt.

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Artemas Ward will lecture in this city Thursday evening, Feb. 27th, and our citizens may rest assured that a rich feast will be spread out before them by this eloquent wit. His lecture in New York, Boston, Brooklyn, New Haven and other cities, was most enthusiastically received.

It has been found impossible in either of the above named places to procure halls large enough to accommodate the crowds that were anxious to hear him ; at New Haven over 600 were unable to get seats. We advise our readers to buy their tickets early, as those who have tickets do not stop on their way into the hall, and have a much better chance to get good seats. However, the committee will have seats on the stage, and chairs will be furnished as long as there is room for one in the hall. This is probably the only chance our people will ever have to hear “Artemas,” and we advise “everybody and his family” to go. The proceeds of the lectures are for the benefit of Pacific Fire Engine Co., No. 2.

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The weather on Sunday and Monday was warm and spring-like. Yesterday the there was a warm rain, thermometer at 44 degrees. Towards night there was a sudden change, and last night was the most inclement of the whole winter. This morning the thermometer stood at 7 degrees.

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Old Frank Datcher (colored,) who for two-and-forty years faithfully and truly served as messenger at the War Department, on Sunday last, after distributing the mails and attending to the other Sabbath duties, went home to lie down and die. He leaves, as an inheritance to his children, of which he is justly proud, a parchment on which seventeen successive Secretaries of War testified to his faithful service.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of February 19, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 19, 1862 (volume 25, number 1260)

Fort Donelson taken

And 15,000 Prisoners !

Gens. Johnston and Buckner Captured.

Chicago, Feb. 15.

The following is a special dispatch to the Chicago Journal:

Two Miles from Fort Donelson,

February 14.

The attack on Fort Donelson commenced at 7 1/2 o’clock on yesterday morning by the land forces under Generals Grant, Smith and McClernand.

The fort is surrounded by high steep hills, heavily wooded and protected by two redoubts, trenches and rifle pits.

The rebels gave battle from their intrenchments outside the fort, but they were driven in after a severe battle and considerable loss on both sides.

Our loss is probably about forty-five killed and from one hundred and fifty to two hundred wounded.

Eight thousand troops and four gunboats arrived last night.

The battle will be resumed to-day.

Chicago, Feb. 17th.

Fort Donelson surrendered yesterday morning. Gen. Johnston and Buckner, with 15,000 rebels, are prisoners. Floyd, by his great experience, stole away with 5,000 men Saturday night.

St. Louis, Feb. 17th.

Dispatches from Gen. Grant to Gen. Halleck announce the surrender of Fort Donelson, with 15,000 prisoners, including Gens. Pillow, Buckner and Johnston.

St. Louis, Feb. 17th.

Further official advices from Donelson says that Gen. Floyd escaped during the night. The rebels in the Fort, denounce him as a black hearted traitor and coward.

The rebels are known to have had 30,000 troops, 15,000 of whom are prisoners, 5,000 escaped, the balance are reported killed or wounded or otherwise disabled. Our loss is not stated, but the slaughter in our ranks is mentioned as terribly severe.

St. Louis, Feb. 17th.

The casualties on the gunboats are as follows : “St. Louis,” 3 killed 2 wounded, including Lieut. Kendall. “Louisville,” 5 sailors killed, 4 slightly and 2 severely wounded, the latter having both arms shot off.

“Carondolet,” 4 killed, 6 badly and two severely wounded, including the pilot.

“Pittsburg,” 2 wounded.

The force en route to Fort Donelson had mostly arrived and located in the left. Gen. Lewis Wallace with the 8th Missouri and 11th Indiana, arrived Friday.

Washington, Feb. 17.

The following is received :

Cairo, Feb. 17.

To Hon. Gideon Welles :–The “Carondolet,” just arrived from Donelson, brings information of the capture of that fort by the land forces yesterday morning, with 15,000 prisoners, including Gens. Buckner and Johnston.

The loss is heavy on both sides. Floyd escaped with 5,000 men during the night. I go up with the gunboats as soon as possible. I will proceed up to Clarkesville. Eight mortar boats are on the way with which I hope to attack Clarkesville.

My foot is painful but not dangerous. The army has behaved gloriously. I shall be able to take but two iron clad gunboats with me, as the others are disabled. The trophies are immense. Particulars will soon be given.  (Signed)

A. H. Foote, Flag Officer.

BATTLE OF ROANOKE.

Over 2000 Prisoners Taken !

Fortress Monroe, Feb. 13.

The gunboat “Stars and Stripes” arrived at noon, from Burnside, with the bearer of dispatches for the government. He reports the rout of the rebels as complete. Three thousand prisoners were captured. All their gunboats were burnt or captured, except two, which escaped to the canal. The federal loss was, killed, 42 ; wounded, about 140 ; the rebels lost, killed about 30, and their wounded less than 100.

The advance from Hatteras took place Wednesday morning, the expedition consisting of about 60 vessels. The fleet anchored off Stumpy Point that night. Next day it proceeded to the entrance of Croaton Sound. After a reconnoissance the attack commenced on Friday, the “Underwriter” leading the column. The rebel fleet was attacked and dispersed in half an hour by a portion of our navy, while the remainder attacked the land batteries.

The fight continued until dark. During the night ten thousand men were landed.

Saturday morning seven thousand were advanced. A masked battery of three guns was soon discovered by skirmishers in front and on both flanks. The 21st, 25th, 27th, Mass., 9th and 51st New York, and 10th Conn., were particularly engaged. The 25th Mass. and 10th Conn. suffered most severely.

The fight lasted only two or three hours, when the battery was abandoned, and our troops pursued and surrounded the rebel camp, and took nearly the whole command prisoners. O. Jennings Wise was wounded and was shot twice while endeavoring to escape in a boat.

Col. Russell of the Tenth Connecticut was killed at the head of his regiment. Lieut. Col. Vizier De Monteil of D’Epeneuil Zouaves, who volunteered, was also killed. No other officers killed above the rank of lieutenant. Our total loss killed and wounded is less than two hundred. The killed are less than fifty.

We took between 2,000 and 3,000 prisoners. They were about being sent to New York by the “S. R. Spaulding” and other steamers. Among them are about 12 or 15 Colonels, Lieut. Colonels and Majors.

On Sunday afternoon a fleet of 15 gunboats started for Elizabeth city, which was shelled, and having been evacuated and partially burnt by the rebels, was occupied. All the rebel fleet was sunk or burnt except two, the “Roanoke” and “Beaufort,” which escaped by the canal. The “Seabird,” which was the flag ship of Commodore Lynch, was run down and boarded, and the gallant Commodore escaped to the shore by swimming.

News from Elizabeth City was received at Roanoke Island on Monday evening, and the “Stars and Stripes” left on Tuesday morning. She struck on the bar at Hatteras on Tuesday night, but started again Wednesday morning, and arrived here about noon to-day.

She brings a bearer of dispatches from Gen. Burnside and Com. Goldsborough. She will take a cargo of ammunition and return immediately.

Gen. Wise was at Nag’s Head, and succeeded in escaping to Norfolk.

The rebels would not fight after being driven from their intrenchments, which was done by Hawkin’s Zouaves and the 21st Massachusetts. Young Wise resisted the storming parties until he was wounded, when he was carried off, and his command retired with others to the upper end of the Island, where they laid down their arms.

Elizabeth Ciry was about half burned by the rebel soldiers. The people sent off a deputation to Com. Goldsborough, asking him to send a force to assist in extinguishing the flames.

Edenton was taken possession of on Wednesday, by Com. Goldsborough, without opposition.

Norfolk and Richmond papers attribute the loss of Roanoke Island to the blundering inefficiency of their navy. They persist in asserting nearly a thousand federals were killed. They charge a Roanoke Island farmer with deserting and piloting the Yankees to the only point where they could effect a landing, the Island being flanked on all sides by an extensive marsh.

Release of Prisoners

Hamilton Fish and Bishop Ames returned to Washington on Friday. Although not permitted to pass the confederate lines, their mission was completely successful. An equal exchange of prisoners was agreed upon. As the confederates had three hundred more than we, (before the battle of Roanoke,) a general jail delivery was agreed upon, and these three hundred were to go on parole. So that all our brave fellows in southern prisons will be liberated.

Col. Charles L. Russell

Of the Tenth Connecticut, was killed at the head of his regiment while gallantly leading on the assault upon the rebel works at Roanoke Island. Col. Russell was Adjutant in the Second regiment, and was of course well known to many in this neighborhood, by whom he was regarded as a brave and gallant soldier. Gen. Burnside has made honorable mention of him in his official report. He was born in Northfield, and was but 33 years of age. His home was in Derby.

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Among the deaths reported in the Sixth and Seventh regiments, is that of Corporal Wm. H. Barrow, of this city, who belonged to company I, of the Seventh. He died of fever, on the 18th ult.

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22d of February !!

Celebration in Middletown

It is proposed to celebrate the 22d of February, Washington’s Birthday, which occurs on Saturday next. The grand success of the national arms within the last two weeks will make the day memorable in the country. Let there be a fitting celebration in Middletown. At a meeting of the City Government this morning, the subjoined votes were passed.

Whereas, The recent brilliant successes of our Army and Navy in North Carolina and Tennessee, deserve the hearty recognition of every true Union man,

Voted, That His Honor the Mayor, be and is hereby requested to issue his proclamation, asking all loyal citizens of the city to join in celebration of the 22d February, as a fitting time for acknowledgment and congratulation to the noble spirits who have upheld our flag and whose successes are a sure indication of the speedy triumph of the cause of the Union and the Constitution.

Voted, That His Honor the Mayor, Aldermen Hubbard, Hall and Griffin, and Councilmen Bent, Camp and Russell, be a committee to aid in carrying out the spirit and intent of these resolutions.

Washington’s Birthday

In accordance with the usual custom, the Sophomore Class of the Wesleyan University will celebrate the Birthday of Washington. There will be a National salute at sunrise, a Federal salute at noon, and a Class salute at sunset.

In the evening there will be an Oration, reading of Washington’s Farewell Address, Music, &c., in the University Chapel. It is said by those who know, that an unusually fine entertainment is promised. Let all who can, be present.

Coasting

For several evenings past the boys have made the most of the fine sliding and the bright moonlight. College street hill seemed to be the favorite spot. The sliding was splendid there, and no mistake.

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At the ball at the McDonough Hall last Friday night, a Hartford gentleman was present with a couple of “fashionable” women, who were enjoying the occasion mightily when it happened that the Chief of Police of Hartford dropped in, and identified the gentleman as one of the supernumeraries of the Hartford police force, and his companions as two noted women of that place. Information was given to the managers of the ball, and the “supernumeraries” were all three turned out. The man’s name is Estes.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of February 12, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 12, 1862 (volume 25, number 1259)

Latest News

It is believed that the Senate will pass the treasury note bill with the legal tender clause.

No doubt is entertained that there has been fighting before this at Roanoake [sic] Island. Intelligence reached Fortress Monroe on Friday that Gen. Burnside’s expedition moved from Hatteras Inlet on Wednesday morning for the Island. The weather has been favorable and we are expecting good news from there soon.

News from the West continues to be cheering. Troops are in motion towards Knoxville, and the railroad through Eastern Tennessee will be taken possession of immediately.

Three vessels of the Butler Expedition left Boston on Saturday for Ship Island.

Gen. Lander with seven or eight thousand troops marched against the enemy at Romney on Thursday. The forces were about equal on both sides, but the rebels retreated across the river, burning the bridge in their rear.

Nothing of importance from the army of the Potomac.

Bishop Ames and Gov. Fish will not be allowed by Jeff. Davis to go south on their mission to our prisoners.

Gen. Stone has been placed under arrest and sent to Fort Lafayette.

The news to this morning from Burnside’s expedition is that the fight at Roanoke Island is going on. The Federals had sunk one or two rebel gunboats.

The latest from the west is from St. Louis, Feb. 10th. The enemy is still encamped near Fort Henry, and preparations for further movements are going vigorously forward. The panic is so extensive in Tennessee that the river is considered open for Union fleets to its headwaters.

By the Jura, just arrived, we learn that Mason and Slidell have arrived in England. The Times thinks they will keep quiet.

Mexico

Highly important news from Mexico is that a great battle has been fought between the Spaniards and Mexicans at the National Bridge near Vera Cruz, in which the Spaniards were defeated. The conflict lasted five hours. The Mexican people are represented as being completely united in their efforts to resist foreign invasion.

Dreadful Colliery Accident – Two Hundred Men and Boys Buried in a Pit

Shields, Friday night.—I have just returned from Hartley New Pit, where 200 men and boys are buried. The shaft has been closed up through the huge beam of the pumping engine falling down the pit yesterday. It carried the timber and the wood work down, and thus blocked the up and down cast shafts. The falling timber filled five out of eight men who were being drawn up in a cage at the time. The men and lads working below at the time of the accident have been buried forty-eight hours, notwithstanding the greatest exertions to relieve them on the part of the ablest men in the coal trade.

The working seam is filling with water, and no doubt the horses, which are worth £500, are already drowned. The men and lads, however, could escape by means of a ladder to the Yard Seam, which is 49 fathoms higher, and out of reach of water. Men have been heard trying to clear the obstruction in the shaft from below, to-night, and no doubt is entertained that they are all out of danger of water at least. Means have been employed for securing good ventilation, and I was assured by the best authorities, before I left to-night, that the strongest hopes may be entertained that the yard seam would be reached and the men and lads rescued before morning.

Great excitement prevails and numerous pitmen’s wives have been at the pit mouth, watching since last night.

The three men who were saved hung to the cage in the shaft eight hours before they were rescued.

The Victory in Tennessee

We had glorious news from the west last week of the capture of Fort Henry on the Tennessee River, which was effected on Thursday. This is not only a glorious but an important victory, opening the way, as it does, for a general movement of our land and naval forces southward. It will also, it is thought, permit a flank movement to be made, cutting off Beauregard’s and Johnson’s forces at Bowling Green. The victory was achieved entirely by the brave seamen of Com. Foote’s squadron of gunboats, and nobly did they maintain the honor of the stars and stripes in the hard fought battle. This is the first victory in Tennessee. It will not be the last.

The Proposal to Make Treasury Notes a Legal Tender

The principal feature of the treasury note bill now before Congress is that it proposes to make the United States treasury notes a legal tender, that is, to place them on an equality with coin in the payment of all debts. This is an entirely new step in legislation, and one which must strike every reflecting mind as a very bold movement, and which can only be justified by the most extraordinary emergencies.

The first difficulty which presented itself was that Congress had no constitutional power to convert promissory notes into a circulating medium and place them on a par with coin. But the weight of authority appears to be on the side of the constitutionality of the measure. By the constitution the whole power of regulating the currency is placed in the hands of Congress. Such is the opinion of the Attorney General, Mr. Bates, and such was clearly the opinion of Daniel Webster. Mr. Webster was decidedly opposed to making any thing but coin a legal tender, and for that reason he was a firm friend of a national bank, which, while it gave every needed accommodation to the government and met all the demands of the business community, rested on a firm specie basis. Such an exigency as now exists did not exist during his career, and no one can say that he would not under present circumstances have favored the legal tender clause in the present bill. But it is remarkable that while in his day he opposed on grounds of expediency making anything a legal tender but coin, he admitted the constitutional right of Congress to do so. He says Congress “has authority” to regulate, and must regulate and control any and all paper which either states or individuals might desire to put into circulation purporting to represent coin and to take its place in the uses of trade and commerce.”

Allowing then that such legislation may be constitutional, it is still a question whether it should be resorted to under present circumstances. It is claimed that unless these notes are made a legal tender, they will be depreciated in value, and will entirely fail to answer the purpose for which they are issued. It is well known that Mr. Chase, the Secretary of the Treasury, did not at first favor the plan of making the notes a legal tender. But now he affirms his belief that no other course will satisfy the demands of the treasury. If it is so, if those who are best acquainted with the real situation of our national finances declare that this extraordinary measure is necessary, then the bill ought to pass, and government notes should become a part of the legalized currency of the country. But such a measure as this should not be adopted unless an absolute necessity for it is seen to exist. It indicates any thing but a flattering condition of our national credit, for it says as clearly as can be said that U. States treasury notes require to be bolstered up by all the authority of Congress in order to give them a fair position in business circles. The credit of the government ought to be such that its notes will circulate without such aid. They should represent an actual value, like any other notes, and pass for what they are worth. And what is more, we doubt whether Congress can by legislation give a value to notes which they do not represent. According to all principles of political economy it is as impossible by a single act of legislation to convert a piece of paper which represents no value into money as it is by the same process to convert a piece of copper into a diamond. There are some things that Congresses and Parliaments cannot do, and this is one of them. The only possible way of making government paper equivalent in value to coin, and so of making it answer all the purposes of a legal tender, is by making it convertible into coin.

But the question with Congress is one of expediency. Something must be done to meet a present exigency. However improper this project may appear in ordinary times, it is possible that it may be necessary now. Mr. Chase says it should be adopted, and we have more faith in the foresight and good judgment of the accomplished Secretary than we have in this plan which he has sanctioned. If the legal tender clause becomes a law, the public will know that the treasury is in great straits for money.

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Com. Foote, who commanded in the late battle at Fort Henry, is a native of Cheshire in this State. His father was Samuel A. Foote, Governor of the State, and U.S. Senator.

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The earthquake of which we made mention last week, was perceived in many of the towns in this county. It was felt in Deep River, and also in East Haddam. The vibrations, it is stated, were so sharp as to cause a violent rattling of windows, stoves, crockery, &c., and they apparently proceeded from the northwest to the southeast. About 9 o’clock the same evening (Sunday before last) another lighter shock occurred, and in the morning about 4 o’clock, still another took place. It would seem that the shock in Colchester was felt more severely than anywhere else. The New London Chronicle says :

“On Sunday evening, about 8 o’clock, the shock of an earthquake was noticed at several localities in this county. In East Lyme and Old Lyme it was perceived, lasting three or four seconds in the latter place. At Colchester it was quite severe, and excited no little alarm in the village. A congregation in one of the churches cut short the service and cut stick for the door—accomplishing the complete evacuation of the building in the quickest time ever made there in going out of meeting. People fled from their dwellings in terror, and sought the streets. Such a scene was never before witnessed in Colchester.”

Portland

It is stated that Smith Williams, teacher in District School, No. 3, in Portland, was arraigned before Justice Campbell for cruel punishment of Mary Cox, a scholar, and fined seven dollars and costs.

Ranaway

On Saturday afternoon a horse attached to a sleigh with a man in it became frightened at the boys’ sleds when on the corner of Broad and Court streets. The steed plunged down Court street with the fell purpose of getting out of the way and leaving town in the quickest possible time. He dashed across Main street, and then put for the river, the man all the while holding on to the lines determined to go the whole figure with the horse. At the foot of the street a schooner is laid up and hauled off two or three feet from the dock. The horse took a bee line for the schooner, and without waiting for anybody to throw out a gang-plank, jumped on board. He brought up square against the mast, which knocked him down and put an end to any further operations on his part. The sleigh was carried partly on board the schooner, was not injured, and the driver still retained his seat and his hold on the lines. That race almost beats John Gilpin.

The Continentals

The entertainment last Tuesday and Wednesday evening, by Messrs. Smith and Franklin of the old Continental company, was a very pleasing one. They had a panorama illustrating war scenes, but the great attraction was the singing of patriotic and other songs, which fairly “took down” the house. Although but slight notice of the entertainment was given, they had a good house.

What is the Matter ?

The mail bag from Hartford to Middletown has been several times detained, and once or twice has not reached here till the next day. The public can excuse accidents, but the same kind of accident don’t [sic] generally occur in the same spot more than twice a week. Will the post master in Hartford see if there is not a screw loose somewhere ?

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The Calathumpians were around town a few nights ago, and serenaded several very respectable individuals. Their music was thought to be a bad imitation of a chorus of tom cats, screech owls, and hyenas. It did not sound like anything earthly, and it could not be celestial—so it must have been—

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There was a ball at the White House on Wednesday evening. It was a splendid affair—five hundred guests present—the supper room “exhibited one of the finest displays of gastronomic art ever seen in this country.” The same night hundreds of Unionists were hunted from their homes in the mountains of Tennessee. The same night our brave sailors in the West were preparing for a deadly conflict at Fort Henry. The same night many a poor mother sat by her lonely fireside thinking of her boy who had gone to defend the flag of his country.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of February 5, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, February 5, 1862 (volume 25, number 1258)

General Burnside’s Expedition

Statement of Rev. Mr. Flanders, Chaplain of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment

We find, in the Providence Journal, several interesting facts concerning the expedition of Gen. Burnside, furnished by Rev. Mr. Flanders, Chaplain of the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment. According to his statement, the disasters to the fleet were far less serious than it would appear from special correspondents. The Journal says :

“Mr. Flanders was on board the “Eastern Queen,” the vessel which carried the Rhode Island Fourth, and was an eye-witness of the furious storm and of the disasters which the expedition experienced. His statements therefore will be received with great interest, and may be implicitly relied on.

“Most of the vessels of lighter draft were successfully carried over the bar, The “City of New York,” however, in attempting to get over, unfortunately struck. She was loaded with an exceedingly valuable cargo, which proved a total loss. Everything on board of her went to the bottom. The sailors were unable to save even their clothes. After she struck it was seen at once to be impossible to get her off, and there she remained for two days, no boat daring, or at least attempting, to go to her assistance. Finally, however, her crew were safely landed, and the vessel abandoned.

Among other heroic acts to which the hazardous condition of the fleet gave rise, one in connection with the loss of the “City of New York” especially deserves mention. The second engineer, Mr. Showerman, was the last to leave the vessel. Lashing himself to the rigging, he remained there until all had left. Then mounting the mast, he cut down the flag, wrapped it around his body, and returning to the deck and thence on shore, bore it as a triumphant trophy of his daring heroism. Said he, ‘I meant either to die in its folds or bring it safely to land.’”

“It was the prevailing opinion at Hatteras that the “City of New York” was lost through the treachery of the pilot. Commodore Goldsborough declared to Mr. Flanders ‘that with the permission of the government, he would hang him that very day.’ The crew of the “City of New York” were also of the opinion that the pilot played the part of a traitor.

“The “Ciry of New York,” together with the “Pocahontas” and a small schooner loaded with oats, were the only vessels which proved total wrecks. The “Pocahontas” was comparatively a worthless craft. Her cargo consisted chiefly of baggage horses, to the number of 130, most of which were drowned. Their loss can be easily supplied. The statement that 90 horses attached to the Rhode Island battery were drowned, Mr. Flanders pronounces a mistake. When he left they had been safely landed. His own horse, however, and that of another staff officer, which happened to be on board the ‘Pocahontas,” were lost.

“Several vessels were driven on shore, experiencing, however, but trifling damage, and will undoubtedly be successfully got off. Among those driven ashore was the “Eastern Queen,” which carried the Fourth Rhode Island Regiment. But the troops were landed without the occurrence of a single casualty.

“In the opinion of Mr. Flanders, the expedition could not be much delayed on account of the storm and the losses which it had encountered, but would soon commence active operations. Gen. Burnside was full of hope, anticipating the most complete success. In conversation he remarked ‘that he had seen darker days than this,’ and that no disaster which the fleet had yet experienced disheartened him in the least. The soldiers place the utmost confidence in his judgment and abilities as a General, and wherever he will lead they are ready and eager to follow.”

Latest News

The House Committee of Ways and Means have very nearly completed the tax bill, and it will soon be reported in Congress. It is expected that by means of the taxes and the ordinary sources of revenue, an income will be secured to government of $150,000,000 annually.

Bishop Ames and Hon. Hamilton Fish, commissioners appointed by Secretary Stanton to go South and look after the welfare of our prisoners, are still in Washington.

The latest from the Burnside expedition is that it was preparing to move to its destination which was believed to be Roanoke Island.

It is rumored that Gen. Banks is to take the place of Mr. Welles in the Navy Department.

Snow has fallen heavily in Virginia. On Saturday, the troops on the Potomac were busy clearing their camps of snow to prevent the water coming into the tents.

In Missouri, Gen. Prentiss is advancing on Lebanon to unite with Davis’ forces, and there is prospect of a battle with Price.

Heavy firing was heard on Thursday in the direction of Roanoke Island, and it was believed Com. Goldsborough was hard at work.

Prof. Larned, of Yale College, died yesterday very suddenly.

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Fortress Monroe, Jan. 29, via Baltimore, Jan. 30.—Some negroes arrived here at seven o’clock this morning, having deserted in small boats from the opposite shore. They were cooks in the Third Alabama regiment, which is encamped in the vicinity.

The negroes report that the last of the iron plates for the Merrimac was put on yesterday, and that she was to be launched to-day.

A large steamer, reported to be the Merrimac, but probably erroneously so, made its appearance at Craney Island yesterday afternoon.

The troops at Newport News slept on their arms last night.

A flag of truce, to-day, brought from Norfolk, Lieutenant E. Connolly, of the Sixty-ninth New York, from Columbia.

The tug-boats James Murray and E. H. Herbert of Baltimore, and Joseph P. Levy, Alert, Alida and Campion, of Philadelphia, sailed this afternoon for Hatteras, to join Gen. Burnside’s expedition.

The Eastern State sailed for Hatteras this forenoon.

The Hartford arrived from Philadelphia the afternoon.

John McMahon, a recruit in Company F, of the Union Coast Guard, shot Michael Dolan, in the same company, this morning. The act was done deliberately. The motive is said to have been an old family grudge.

The Liberated Negroes

It is probably impossible to settle upon any permanent policy with regard to the treatment of liberated slaves. The most that can be done now is to adopt such plans as will answer temporary purposes. It is certain that they should be well treated and their wants should be supplied, and if they can be employed in any kind of labor either in connection with army operations or in cultivating the soil, they should be so employed. It is now time to begin preparations for the cotton crop for the present year, and the thousands of blacks within the national lines on the coast of South Carolina might be set to work in making the necessary preparations. It is far better to keep these people busy than to maintain them in idleness, and their labor might be made exceedingly profitable, for it is well known that the region where Gen. Sherman’s forces are entrenched produces the best cotton in the world. Nothing is more useless than to speculate upon what is ultimately to be done with these people. So long as the war lasts nobody can venture to predict. The only thing that can be done now is to provide for them, and use them to the best advantage.

Rebel Commanders

The commanders of the rebel forces have not been fortunate nor happy in their position. Davis and Beauregard have repeatedly quarreled, and the latter has once or twice come very near resigning his commission. To say nothing of Zollicoffer and Garnett who fell on the battle field, there is a General Cocke who blew out his brains, and Grayson who died a natural death. Then we have on the list of resignations Major General Twiggs, Brigadier General Walker, Pillow and Fauntelroy [sic]. It is now stated that the redoubtable Beauregard has been sent to Bowling Green, where he is to take a command subordinate to Gen. A. S. Johnson.

When this rebellion commenced it was believed that Beauregard was the commander of the rebel forces, and no doubt Beauregard thought he was himself. But for some reason or other, his star has of late shone with a diminished luster. His counsels have been overruled by Davis. He has been superseded on the Potomac. He now goes to Kentucky where he takes an inferior command. Beauregard, in common with other rebel commanders, appears to have had a hard time of it.

Drafting Suspended

By order of Gov. Buckingham the Adjutant General will notify the selectmen of the several towns throughout the state that the late order for drafting is suspended. The reason of this is that it has become apparent that further legislation will be required to make the law effective, and also that volunteer companies have so increased as to give encouragement that the number required by law may be secured without the service of men who have been drafted. Thus there is no need of any further apprehension on the part of those who have been drafted and those who have not. The present law appears to be in effect a dead letter.

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The same disease, lameness in the joints, which appeared in this town last week, has since appeared in Hartford. There it has almost become epidemic. It is remarkable that it appeared there as it did here immediately after the drafting for the active militia.

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Samuel Tudor, the oldest man in Hartford, died last week, aged 92. He was one of the original founders and for a long time a director in the Phœnix Bank, and also a director in the Ætna Insurance Company. He was a man of wealth, kindhearted, gentlemanly, and ever pleasant and cheerful.

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Messrs. Editors :–The following from an Ohio paper will no doubt be of interest to many of your readers, as Capt. Wetmore is a grandson of Josiah, and great-grandson of Capt. Seth Wetmore, one of the original proprietors of this town. Young Capt. Wetmore was a classmate of Samuel M. Mansfield, son of Gen. Mansfield.

Wetmore Battery.—Editor Journal.—I perceive the several dispatches from Somerset detailing accounts of the recent great battle at Mill Spring notice Capt. Whetmore’s or Whitmore’s Battery doing signal service.

The battery of flying artillery alluded to was raised by Capt. Henry Shepard Wetmore (not Whitmore) in Cuyahoga and Summit counties in this state. Capt. Wetmore resigned a Cadetship at West Point (where he was distinguished as a mathematical scholar and tactician) the past summer, in order to serve his country in the field, and that too when he could have been at the end of six months entitled to his diploma, and in line of promotion in the regular army.

Col. Hazen of the 41st O. S. V. knowing Mr. W.’s ability, invited him to raise a battery and join his regiment. The gallant part that Capt. W. and his brave men took in gaining that signal victory over Zollicoffer and his confederate allies, shows that Col. Hazen knew his man, when he selected Mr. W. to command the battery then to be attached to the “41st.”

Capt. W. is the son of Nathaniel D. Wetmore Esqr., of Cuyahoga Falls, and was born in Rochester, N. H., Nov. 23d, 1841. He is probably the youngest Captain in years in the service.

Earthquake

On Sunday evening about eight o’clock a shock which appeared to be that of an earthquake was very sensibly felt in this city. It was a tremulous motion of the earth, felt but a few seconds, very similar to what would be produced by a heavy explosion, but without any noise attending it. The shock was much more perceptible on the other side of the river than here. A gentleman from East Hampton said it was very distinctly perceived there, and fairly shook the walls of the buildings. It was at first thought that it might have some connection with the “Moodus noises” which used to be heard in Moodus, but we learn that it was as quiet as usual in that neighborhood.

A Chance for a Sleigh Ride

A sleighing party to Wethersfield will start from the Douglas House on Thursday, wind and weather permitting. What is going to happen in Wethersfield we are not informed, but on their return a supper will be served up by “mine host” at the Douglas House. After the supper there will be a dance. All who wish to enjoy a good supper and what comes after the supper, are invited to be present.

Icy Steps

Several tubsfull of boiling water poured in quick succession on the steps of our dwellings, in sleety weather, beginning at the top, and coming down, as each step is cleared, followed with a broom, and then wiped with a cloth, will clear a dozen steps in ten minutes ; the warmth imparted to the steps by the boiling water, dries up the dampness left by the cloth. Salt scales off the stone, while ashes, sawdust and the like are insufferably dirty.—[Hall’s Journal of Health.

A Useful Dog

Mr. Schenck, at [the Farms, has a dog which goes out near the railroad track every night, a few moments before it is time for the cars, and waits until they pass, then picks up the paper which is thrown off by the expressman, and carries it to his master. He is always on hand at the regular time and never fails to bring the paper when it is there. Monday night he came back without it, and so confident was Mr. Schenck that it had not been thrown off that he walked to Rockport, and there learned that another person had been on the rout [sic] that day, instead of the regular expressmen [sic], and had forgotten to throw it off. This same dog used to get the paper by the stage-coach, ere the cars commenced running, and never missed being at his post when the stage came along.—[Cape Ann Advertiser.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of January 29, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 29, 1862 (volume 25, number 1257)

Latest News

No intelligence yet from Burnside’s expedition.

The accounts of the battle on the Cumberland fully confirm the first statements. There were eight regiments of the enemy under Gen. Crittenden. They began the attack on our forces on Saturday night. In the early part of the battle Zollicoffer fell. Three times the enemy formed their line, which was as often broken by the onset of our troops. Gen. Thomas had ten regiments under his command and four batteries. But five regiments and two batteries were engaged in the battle. The battle ground was at a place known as Old Fields in Pulaski County.

The news from Europe by the Europa, which brings dates to the 12th, is quite satisfactory. The answer of Secretary Seward to the demand with regard to the Trent affair is all that was desired by the English government, and the Times intimates that an answer will be returned expressing gratification at the disavowal of Capt. Wilkes’ act and assuming that the precedent will rule in other cases.

The oath of office was yesterday administered to associate justice Swayne who took his seat on the bench of the U. S. Supreme Court.

A fire broke out in Quincy market, Boston, on Monday morning, which proved very disastrous to the occupants of the market. Total loss is estimated at $50,000.

David S. Robinson, Esq., a prominent citizen of Hartford, is dead.

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Cincinnati, Jan. 24.

The morning papers contain full accounts of the battle of Mill Springs. It was a fair, open battle. The rebels fought well, and were overcome only by superior fighting on our side. According to the rebel accounts, their force consisted of ten infantry regiments, three batteries and some cavalry,–altogether about 10,000. They fought in the bushwhacker style, from ravines and behind trees and rocks.

The brunt of the battle devolved on the 4th Kentucky, 2d Minnesota, 9th Ohio and 10th Indiana. For nearly three hours the roar of musketry was kept up. Shortly after 11 o’clock, Col. Hoskins succeeded in flanking the enemy on the extreme right, when the 9th Ohio and 2d Minnesota charged bayonet, with triumphant yells, and broke the rebel ranks and the route [sic] began. They fled pell mell to their camp, strewing the road with muskets, blankets, overcoats and knapsacks, and abandoned two guns and caissons.

Zollicoffer was shot through the heart, at the head of his staff, by Col. Frye of the 4th Kentucky. It appears that he lost his way in the bushes and suddenly emerged before Frye who was accompanied by some staff officers.

The two parties mistook each other for friends, and approached each other within a few yards, when, finding their mistake, both parties prepared for a hand to hand fight. One of Zollicoffer’s aids shot at Col. Frye, but only brought his horse down. The Colonel at once drew his six-shooter and brought Zollicoffer from his saddle at the first fire. The rebel staff deserted their chief’s body, which was taken to Somerset the day after the battle.

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The new Secretary of War has commenced his administration with a set of stringent rules and regulations which must have an excellent influence on the business of this department and on the efficiency of the army. One of his rules is that no appointment shall be made to any rank in the army, unless of men in the field, until the first of March. Another is that the names of such officers as frequent the city except on military duty, or by command of their superior officers, will be dropped from the list. General McClellan has removed his head quarters to the War Department, a fact which shows that the utmost harmony in regard to plans of future operations prevails between the Secretary and the General-in-Chief.

The Europeans in Mexico

The French and English forces have joined the Spaniards at Vera Cruz. According to the arrangements, the next step[s] in the programme are the invasion of the country, the seizure of the government, and then to obtain such indemnity for the past and security for the future as shall satisfy the invaders. Whether all this will take place according to the programme is exceedingly uncertain. It is discovered that the Mexico of to day is different from the Mexico, as she was described to be, of six months ago. Spain, which is the foremost and most interested party in this invasion, represented that intestine feuds and wars had worn out the life of Mexico, that no resistance of importance could be made, and that, immediately upon landing, the allies would find a strong party in the country in their favor. But now that the allies have reached Vera Cruz, and have had an opportunity to take a survey of things as they are, they discover a very different state of things from what they expected. Instead of finding Mexico reduced to the verge of dissolution, she is discovered to be remarkably vigorous and strong. Instead of the promised welcome from a large and powerful party, they have not yet seen any signs of existence of such a party. On the other hand, they find that Mexico is united in resisting the invaders, and that a well appointed army of one hundred and fifty thousand men is ready to take the field against them. Under these new aspects of the case the allies will probably feel disposed to reconsider the matter. Vera Cruz may be found a convenient stopping place for the present, or until some arrangements could be entered into with the Mexican government, which will enable the French and English to get out of the scrape they have evidently got into.

Emigration to Hayti

On Thursday afternoon, the second colony of colored emigrants dispatched this month, sailed for Port-au-Prince and Miragoane, Hayti. The first colony consisted of 35 ; yesterday, 42 sailed. The colony of yesterday was composed exclusively of farmers from Michigan, Canada, and Pennsylvania. The next colony will sail from this port on the 20th inst., for Cape Hayti, in the north of the island, and on the 25th another will sail for Aguin, in the south of the island—both to found new settlements.

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John Tyler, ex-President of the United States, died at Richmond on Friday night, after a brief illness. He was elected Vice President of the United States, and became President on the death of Gen. Harrison. His term of office was an inglorious one, having betrayed the party which elected him, and the political principles he had professed to hold. In his last days he has been an active promoter of rebellion in Virginia.

Army Telegraph

Over one thousand miles of telegraph wire connects the various divisions of McClellan’s army at Washington. He can communicate instantly with all his Generals, and the lines are to be extended as the divisions move.

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Dr. Russell, of the London Times, is actually “packing up to go.” He has engaged passage in the next Cunard steamer from this port—the Arabia—to leave tomorrow week. He says he has written all about this miserable country and this miserable war that can be written, and besides, he is tired of staying among a people who cannot appreciate his transcendent genius for drawing on his imagination for his facts. It is said he will employ the few remaining days of his sojourn here, in hunting up that terrible mob which was to perform such shocking things if Mr. Lincoln decided to give up Slidell and Mason. When found he will please make a note of it.—N. Y. Cor. Phil. Inq.

Drafting in Middletown

In compliance with the requirements of the new militia law, a draft was made in this town last week. The quota of Middletown is one hundred and eight. We understand that many of the victims, when informed of their fate, showed considerable emotion. Most of them exhibited a becoming patriotism, others manifested no little trepidation, while one or two, we are sorry to hear, became unaccountably lame.

Bogus

We understand that some bogus notices, purporting to come from the selectmen, have been sent around to individuals in town to the effect that they have been drafted into the active militia.

From Mayor’s Report

Washington Park

In my last annual report, I called the attention of the city to the subject of constructing a public park on Washington street, between High and Vine streets, as well for the use of our citizens as a promenade, as for an improvement and ornament to the city.

I recommended the appropriation of a sum not to exceed six hundred dollars therefor [sic], conditioned that a like sum be raised from other sources, or be paid in equal moieties with such sums as shall be so raised of a less amount.

The proposed plan met the approval of the meeting, and the appropriation was accordingly granted. Owing to the great and peculiar calamities which had subsequently fallen upon our country, affecting injuriously its general interests and prosperity, I had determined not to move in the matter this year, but leave it to my successor in office to be governed by future circumstances in relation to it.

It was those very calamities, however, that afterwards induced me to change my purpose and make an effort to carry out the plan originally proposed. The sudden suspension of manufacturing, mechanical and other industrial pursuits, threw out of employ a large number of able bodied worthy men, in the fall of the year, who, with their families, were likely to be subjected to great distress for means of support.

If some plan could be devised, to give them employment, even at low wages, it would in fact be a matter of public economy, and save the expense of a greater expenditure for their support in idleness, through no fault of theirs.

I therefore made an appeal to our citizens for aid, more on the ground of a charitable measure, than of a public improvement, tho’ both objects would be gained by it, and succeeded in getting a subscription of $450, towards which the town, through their selectmen, subscribed $150. With these means and an equal amount received from the city treasurer, the work was commenced, and prosecuted so near to completion, in grading, culverts, and drains, as will leave but little more to do in the spring to complete it, than to fence it and plant the trees, which the lateness of the season prevented being done this fall. …

E. A. RUSSELL, Mayor.

Middletown, Jan. 20th, 1862.

The Weather

We have just been through what they call a “spell of weather.” For more than a week the sun did not show his face in Connecticut. It has snowed, and hailed, and rained, and sleeted. The wind has been through all the variations of the gamut, and blown from all the stormy points of the compass. Saturday was sloshy, that is, snow and water up to the ankles. On Sunday the weather cleared, and there is now a thick bed of snow and ice on the ground, which promises good sleighing for some time to come.

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The heavy weight of snow and water on Saturday caused some damage. The roof of the west barn of the livery stable of S. Hall & Son, in Court street, gave way under the pressure. One horse was badly injured.

A chimney on the dwelling of Wm. H. Atkins, in College street, was taken off by the snow as it slid down the roof.

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The town clock has indicated the same time of day for about two weeks. Judging from the sounds, the internal arrangements keep moving, but the public is not much benefitted thereby.

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NOTICE is hereby given to all whom it may concern, that I have from this date given my son CHARLES EDWARD LEWIS his time and the avails of his labor and that I will not pay any bills of his contracting.

ABEL LEWIS.

Middletown, January 27, 1862.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of January 22, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 22, 1862 (volume 25, number 1256)

Latest News

The startling fact is announced by the Investigating Committee appointed by Congress to inquire into the fidelity of Government employees that there are in the Departments at least five hundred persons who are disloyal to the government !

Gen. Lane and his staff have left Washington for Kansas.

Some one sees indications that a forward movement of the grand army of the Potomac may be looked for soon.

It was asserted at Fortress Monroe on Friday that Gen. Wool had sent notice to Gen. Huger, the rebel commander at Norfolk, to remove the women and children from that city, indicating that an attack was to be made upon the place immediately.

One hundred and fifty exchanged national prisoners reached Baltimore on their way home on Sunday. They are all convalescents from the hospitals.

By a peremptory order of Gen. McClellan every officer and soldier is required to be at his post, and nothing but the most urgent reasons can entitle any officer to leave of absence.

Accounts from New Orleans are that the blockade of that port is perfect, that large rebel reinforcements have been sent there, defences [sic] are being constructed, and that the citizens have been devising various methods to open their city to the commerce of the world.

Gen. McClellan’s firm and dignified position taken before the joint committee on the conduct of the war has produced a most wonderful change in his favor. The tone of public sentiment towards him has undergone a complete revolution.

Ex-President Tyler is very ill at Richmond.

Information has been received that the enemy has evacuated Manassas, and taken a position further south.

A great flood prevails in California, and many millions of dollars worth of property has been destroyed.

Great Battle in Kentucky,

Gen. Zollicoffer Killed

A great battle took place at Somerset, Ky on Sunday, between Gen. Schoepff’s and Gen. Zollicoffer’s forces. It lasted from early in the morning till dark. Gen. Zollicoffer was killed and his army entirely defeated. The loss is heavy on both sides. The victory was decisive. The camp equipage of the enemy, and a large number of prisoners fell into the hands of the national troops. The government this morning received official intelligence of the victory in Kentucky.

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Concerning the new Secretary of War, Mr. Stanton, the special of the Tribune says :

He is a man of vigorous character, with resolution to prosecute the war with the utmost energy, and to strive to strike the rebellion in its most vulnerable points. Slavery he believes to be the most vulnerable of all. During his administration of the war department, no General or other officer of the army will more than once return a fugitive slave. Those who flatter themselves that in his appointment the cause of slavery, of the rebels, or of the border states, or of the “hands-off” type, has gained an ally, will be charmingly disappointed.

He is not a man of rosewater-doubts as to the expediency or propriety of doing this or that thing, of arming this or that class of men ready to fight for the Union. His only question will be, how most rapidly and thoroughly to crush the rebellion.

Uneasiness Among the People

There are unmistakeable [sic] signs of public discontent at the immovability of the army of the Potomac. It was confidently supposed that an advance would be made before the cold of winter set in. Washington letter writers assured us there were sure indications of an important movement about to be made. After the grand review of the soldiers by the President and General McClellan, the assurance was made doubly sure, for nobody could understand what such a magnificent parade could be for, unless it was meant as a prelude to the long expected order to march. But the review passed by, and days and weeks passed by after it, and the two hundred thousand men who compose the army of the Potomac received no order to march. We are now in the middle of winter, a season of the year when prudent generals rarely move large armies out of quarters. The Virginia roads are reported impassable, Gen. McClellan is too unwell to undertake much hard work, and no indications can be discerned of a movement about to be made.

On the other hand the people are beginning to realize the costliness of the war, that it is involving them in an enormous debt, to pay the interest of which will require a heavy taxation.

Under these circumstances, the inquiry is beginning to be urged—why is not more done ? It is natural enough that uneasiness should be felt. The people know nothing about McClellan’s plans. They know very little about McClellan himself. For aught that they know the General does not mean to fight at all. But the fact is they are wholly in the dark as to what the “powers that be” intend to do, and the experience of the past few months has not given them much encouragement in regard to the future. We do not wonder therefore, at the uneasiness that is felt, for it is perfectly natural under the circumstances. But we believe it ought to be checked, and that all discontent should be promptly subdued. The war now is not in the hands of the people. It is in the hands of the government and of the military chiefs, and to them it must be exclusively committed. If we attempt to turn them aside from their chosen course, or throw obstacles in their way, we do it at our peril. The people interfered once, and the disaster of Bull Run was the result. The experiment should not be repeated. Let there be implicit confidence or at least a perfect acquiescence, in the course which those in authority shall adopt. If the nation is to be saved out of its perils, it must be done by President Lincoln and by General McClellan. They are the men to whom we look, and on whom every thing depends. If they fail in ability or in faithfulness, we are lost. The last, therefore, that a good citizen can do under the circumstances is to acquiesce in all the plans which the only men who have the right to lay any plans have laid for subduing this rebellion.

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Washington, Jan. 16.

The Government contract investigating committee are now engaged upon the subject of alleged frauds in this vicinity. They discover that the same horses have been twice sold to the Government, superintendents and inspectors have been bribed to certify to horses, sometimes selling them to private individuals ; that the enormous amounts paid by the war department for transportation, have induced strong competition among railroad companies, so that many colonels in the West, in moving their regiments East, have received, each, from $1500 to $2000 bonus ; that some sutlers are making $3000 profits per month ; that nearly all the sutlers south of the Potomac sell liquor with the knowledge of the officers ; that it is smuggled in boxes marked “Government,” and “Hospital stores,” or packed in barrels marked “Beef.” Maj. Jourdan of the Brooklyn 14th, having been appointed Lieut. Col., of the 10th legion, enables representative Van Wyck, who is its colonel, to give much of his time to the business of the investigating committee, which will soon proceed to  the examination of the contracts for wintering disabled or sick horses, as proposed by the representative McPherson’s recent resolution.

Retrenchment

If heavy taxes are to be laid, a demand will be made upon our public officers for retrenchment in many of our public expenditures. There has been a great waste in times past, and vast expenditures which were totally unnecessary have been made. A reform in this matter must be undertaken and carried out. All necessary taxes will be willingly paid, provided there is an assurance that the money is not wasted. This subject has already engaged the attention of Congress, and there is a prospect that reforms in the right direction will be made. Let the franking system be abolished. Let the salaries of many of our public officers, including Congressmen, be reduced. No appropriations of the public funds for objects not absolutely necessary should be made. And particularly a careful watch should be kept on those men who are getting rich by a system of public plundering.

Secretary Welles

Some apprehensions were felt a few days ago lest Senator Welles should resign his seat in the Cabinet, on account of charges made against him in consequence of a contract he made with Mr. Morgan of New York for the purchase of vessels for the navy. Where vessels are to be purchased by the government it is usual to give the matter in charge to a commission of naval officers. Mr. Welles departed from this usage, and employed a civilian, who was also related to him by marriage to make the purchases. No salary was allayed Mr. Morgan out of the public treasury, but he rewarded himself by charging a commission on his purchases. In the course of five months his gains have amounted to more than $90,000. The Secretary, in the defence [sic] which he has presented, contends that on the whole money has been saved to the U. States treasury, that under the old system serious losses have been suffered, and that though Mr. Morgan’s profits are large, the country is the gainer by employing him.  The Secretary says, too, that in no case has the agent paid an excessive price, and his purchases have been judicious. Those who know Mr. Welles will have confidence in his good intentions in this business. He may have erred in judgment in appointing a near relative to a most lucrative service, for the public is always suspicious of favoritism in such cases. But that he had any idea that the public interests would suffer thereby, no one who knows him can believe for a moment.

Intemperance in the Army

The National Sanitary Commission express the opinion, based upon the returns of two hundred regiments and from personal observations, that our armies of volunteers are believed to be more temperate than any European army. Intoxication was acknowledge[d] to be common in only six regiments. In thirty-one it was said to occasionally occur, though not deemed a serious evil ; and in one hundred and sixty-three the inspectors were assured, and had no reason to doubt, that it was very rare. In the majority of regiments there is very little dram drinking, except shortly after pay day. Most of the liquor drank by the volunteers is probably obtained from the pie peddlers. When other means fail, it is conveyed in the pies.

In certain regiments, containing a large per centage of Germans, lager beer has been freely used. There is evidence before the commission tending to show than [that?] its use (at least during the summer) was beneficial, and that disorders of the bowels were less frequent in companies regularly supplied with it in moderation than in other companies of the regiment.

Union State Ticket

For Governor,

WM. A. BUCKINGHAM, of Norwich.

For Lieut. Governor,

ROGER AVERILL, of Danbury.

For Secretary,

J. HAMMOND TRUMBULL, of Hartford.

For Treasurer,

GABRIEL W. COITE, of Middletown.

For Comptroller,

LEMAN W. CUTLER, of Watertown.

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The Nomination For State Officers

The Convention which assembled in Hartford on Thursday last at the call of the Republican State Central Committee, accepted the ticket which had been nominated by the Union Convention. This course was believed to be the most acceptable to the voters of Connecticut, and the only safe course to be pursued at this juncture of our public affairs. Now is a time to lay aside all party differences and even party names, and unite in the common cause of the Union. Such was the prevailing feeling in the convention, and the members were willing to make such concessions and sacrifices as were necessary to ensure united action at the polls next spring. The name of Roger Averill was substituted for the honored name of Lieut. Governor Douglas. No man has shown a heartier devotion to the cause of his country than the present Lieut. Governor during his term of office. A gentleman of the strictest integrity, of rare business qualities, and of proved patriotism, his retirement from office will be a loss to the state and a cause of regret to all who know him. The name of Gabriel W. Coite, of this city, is substituted for that of Ezra Dean the present Treasurer. Mr. Coite is believed to be a thorough going Union man, and as such will receive the support of the loyal citizens of Connecticut.

It is satisfactory to know that there will be but one Union ticket presented to the voters of this State next spring. One other ticket will be presented, that to be nominated by the Breckenridge democratic convention, which meets next February. The issue, therefore, will be a plain one. It needs no prophet to foretell what verdict the loyal people of this old commonwealth will render.

CITY ELECTION

The election on Monday for the choice of Mayor and other city officers called out a larger vote than at any similar election. Over 100 more were polled than last year. Samuel L. Warner, the Union candidate, was elected over Edward A. Russell, the democratic candidate, by a majority of 166. There was a good deal of interest during the election, and some excitement, for the democracy strained every nerve to carry the day, and the Unionists kept a sharp look out on all proceedings. …

The polls were closed at two o’clock, after which it was voted that a tax of two mills be laid, and three per cent. be allowed the collector. The Mayor’s report was read and ordered to be printed in the city papers.

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Notice.—On or Before the 1st day of February, a report must be made out and sent to the State Comptroller for the benefit of Wives and Families of Volunteers now in service. To enable a complete report to be made, and to avoid errors in the same, it is hereby required that each wife or representative of such family shall appear personally at the office of the First Selectman, for the above named purpose.

A failure to do so, on the part of those interested may involve a loss of the appropriation, designed for their benefit.

SAMUEL C. HUBBARD, Selectman.

Middletown, Jan. 13, 1862.

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Notice.—The Annual Meeting of the Stockholders of the “East Haddam Duck Co.” will be held at their Office, (Goodspeed’s Landing) on Friday, Jan. 31st, at 2 o’clock, P. M., for the choice of Directors, and the transaction of any other business proper to come before said meeting.

Per the order of the Directors,

THOS. GROSS, Jr., Secretary.

East Haddam, Jan. 7, 1862.

150 years ago in Middletown, Connecticut … Week of January 15, 1862

From The Constitution, Wednesday, January 15, 1862 (volume 25, number 1255)

Latest News

Gen. Burnside’s expedition is on the move, and a portion has reached Hampton Roads in safety.

In Eastern Kentucky the national forces are becoming masters of the situation. The news is confirmed of the rout of Humphrey Marshall’s army.

That portion of Gen. Butler’s division in Boston have again embarked on board the Constitution and yesterday sailed for Fortress Monroe.

Gen. McClellan’s health is so much improved that he is able to ride out.

It was reported yesterday in Washington that Secretary Cameron had resigned, and that Edward M. Stanton would take his place while Cameron would be appointed minister to Russia.

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Cincinnati, Jan. 11.

The Gazette learns from one of the proprietors of the Louisville Democrat, who arrived here from Sandy Valley yesterday, that the second rebel invasion of Eastern Kentucky ended in a disgraceful rout. Monday last Colonel Garfield’s forces, including the 42d Ohio, 10th Kentucky, and 1800 cavalry, were ordered up the Big Sandy to Painsville, within 7 miles of the rebel camp, when they were met by a flag of truce, bearing a message from Humphrey Marshall, asking if matters could not be arranged without a fight. Col. Garfield immediately replied that he could offer no arrangement except either to fight or immediately surrender.

Marshall then addressed his men, informing them that they had the alternative to surrender or disband and giving them the choice. They decided to disband and immediately collected and set fire to all their wagons, tents, camp equipage, supplies, &c. Then each man was permitted to take care of himself, the whole force scattering in confusion. No attempt was made to save anything except their cannon, which they hauled off.

Col. Garfield sent his cavalry in pursuit and expects to capture the guns, and perhaps pick up many flying rebels.

The rebels in northeastern Kentucky, from the high estimate in which Marshall’s military abilities were held, had strong hopes of success under his leadership. A sufficient federal force will be left in that region to secure its future safety.

The Impending Trial

It is now perfectly evident that the country is about the pass through a period of financial trial such as it has never experienced before. The expenses of the government have reached the enormous sum of nearly three millions a day. In a few days the national treasury will be depleted, and unless some new measures are speedily adopted for raising money the nation will become bankrupt. General anxiety is felt under this threatening aspect of our public affairs, and the impression is strong in many minds that a greater danger is now impending over us than has yet assailed the country.

The danger is no doubt great and threatening, but we apprehend that its perfect novelty clothes it with unnecessary terrors in the minds of our people. We are totally unaccustomed to such enormous expenses, and know nothing from experience how to meet them. England would think little of the expenses we are now incurring, and bears continually a vastly heavier burden than this war can possibly entail upon us. Are our resources so much less than those of England that we have reason to fear being crushed and ruined under a debt which will not amount to a twentieth part of her national debt ? We think not. We are able to pay every dollar, interest and principal, of the debt which will be incurred. But the question is, and it is really a very serious one, how is the money to be reached ?

The Secretary of the Treasury will probably issue Treasury notes, bearing perhaps a low rate of interest, and convertible at any time into the United States six per cent. stocks. But what will these notes be good for unless government adopts some other measures at the same time ? Taxation must accompany their issue, or they will finally be no better than continental shin plasters. A system of taxation must be devised, and at once put into operation. There is no other honest course. To go on borrowing and spending money without making any attempt to raise means to pay our indebtedness would be downright fraud. Such a course our government would never pursue.

We have the utmost confidence in the administration and believe that the financial crisis now impending will be safely passed. The treasury notes which may be issued will meet with a generous reception throughout the country. The American Exchange Bank of New York has agreed to take such notes in payment of paper held by the bank on condition that the dealers receive similar notes from the bank at their par value. Other banks will probably follow this example, and thus prevent any deprivation in these notes. At the same time a just and equitable system of taxation will be devised such as will fully sustain the credit of the government. And though the burdens may be onerous, we believe, nay, we know, that the people will not refuse them. Every demand thus far has been readily responded to, and this will be met in the same spirit with those which have preceded it.

Military

Gen. Butler was in Hartford on Wednesday, and inspected the 12th regiment. The regiment numbers 900 men, and the General spoke in high terms of their appearance and condition. On the same day, in the afternoon, he went to Meriden to inspect the soldiers in Camp Tyler, at Hanover. The First Conn. Artillery Battery is ordered direct to Fort Columbus, New York, there to wait further orders.

Cromwell

The ladies of Cromwell have sent three barrels of articles to the Fourth Regiment, valued at $110. The articles consisted of quilts, comfortables, socks, &c. A fair and festival was held for the benefit of the soldiers about a fortnight ago which realized not far from $60. In addition to this, three gentlemen of Cromwell have given about $75 to soldiers of the Fourth. The ladies of that town have not yet finished their patriotic labors, but are still at work, and intend to send on further supplies.

Worthy of the Olden Time

The wife of Rev. Hervey Talcott of Portland has sent to G. T. Hubbard, Esq. of this city to be forwarded to the soldiers nineteen pairs of woolen stockings, most of which she knit with her own hands. This gift is worthy of the times of 1776 when Gov. Trumbull’s wife set the example to the women of Connecticut of furnishing, at great personal self-sacrifice, warm clothing to the American soldiers.

Death of Col. Colt

Colonel Samuel Colt died at his residence in Hartford on Friday morning, of an acute attack upon the brain. He was out and attending to business on the Friday previous. His age was 47. Col. Colt had contributed more than any other man to the pecuniary prosperity of Hartford, which was his native place. His vast works there will be carried on by the present incorporation which is known as the Colt Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company. The widow of Col. Colt is the daughter of Rev. Wm. Jarvis, formerly of this city.

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A new cemetery has just been opened in East Hampton (Chatham.) The first interment was made a few days ago when the body of W. A. Skinner was buried there. It is in the south part of the village, and is a very fine location.

A Hard Time in the Gale

The gale of New Year’s night came very near wrecking the schooner Elijah H. Hubbard, Capt. Stockton, of this city. Capt. Stockton left New London on Wednesday, in ballast, bound for New Haven. He was at anchor near Faulkner’s island when the gale came on at night, but finding himself in an unsafe place he got under weigh and stood for the Connecticut coast, hoping to make a harbor. He thought once he had got into safe quarters, and cast his anchor, but the gale compelled him to start out again, and he drove along to the eastward under bare poles and finally brought up at Newport on Thursday. He says that night was the most fearful time he ever experienced on Long Island Sound.

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The Public Schools, after a delay of one week on account of the prevailing sickness, commenced their winter term on Monday. The scarlet fever has very much abated in the city, and parents need feel no fear now in sending their children to school.

The War in Middletown

The other day a couple of young farmers who had come into the city with wood were waiting for customers in Main street, where they got into a confab about politics, wood, cattle or some other exciting subject. Words became altogether too tame. Fists flew about with great activity. Farmer No. 1 fell down, and thought he saw stars. Got up again, and hit out right and left. The by-standers had the absurd notion that they might get hurt unless they parted, so they interfered and prevented any further discussion of the question.

Sliding

It is capital sliding now on Court hill, and last evening the boys improved it.

Clear the Sidewalks

Every one in the city should see that the sidewalks in front of his premises are clear of snow. A city ordinance requires that this should be done. In clearing the walk, the whole breadth of the pavement should be cleared. We observe that some persons make merely a footpath. This is not complying with the law, for the public is entitled to the use of the whole of the sidewalk.

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The following letter from the Postmaster Calef would explain itself without a word from us ; but we take this occasion to congratulate our advertisers and readers that for the first time since it was established The Constitution is officially recognized as the leading newspaper in Middletown. Within the past year it has rapidly gained in its subscription list and the number of yearly advertisers has also considerably increased. We do not speak of this boastingly or from any desire to triumph over our cotemporary “in Elliott’s building,” but the public wants to know where advertisements can circulate to the best advantage and our readers are entitled to know something of the status of the journal they patronize. Here is the Postmaster’s letter :

Middletown, Jan. 6, 1862.

A. Newton & Son :

Proprietors of “ The Constitution :”

Gents :-

The evidence presented to me to day shows the circulation of the Constitution within the delivery of this Post Office to be larger than that of the Sentinel & Witness. I am therefore obliged by law to award the advertising of the uncalled for letters in this office to the Constitution.   Yours, &c.       A. B. Calef.

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Loud Call for a Husband

The following loud call appears in the ‘Herald of Progress.’ Miss Marie is evidently a girl of real grit, and it is to be hoped that her fastidious taste and elevated standard in making a selection, will not wholly prevent her from finding a “sympathetic mate.” It would be too bad if her “highest idea of a husband should be found to be too high, and thus keep the poor girl “waiting in maidenhood” for a reply that will never come. “Where is he ?” Don’t all speak at once :

[From the Herald of Progress.]

“A true marriage demands congenialty !” And as I have not yet found a sympathetic mate, I am forced to remain a maid. I love not your members of tobacco-consuming clubs, nor your so-called gentlemen jockeys. I shrink in disgust from those low-minded, sensuous natures who turn their unholy gaze upon me at every step. I recoil from your unclean “owners” of “slaves,” even though they are white ! And hence, as I have not been so fortunate as to meet with any of the remaining few, I am compelled to live alone, when I would so gladly make a loving home for a companion who would claim no rights, either marital or other, who would recognize in me his equal in those free gifts of God alike bestowed on all his creatures.

Where is he who will join me in an endeavor to live up to my highest idea of right—who will aid in the struggle to transform some of the many “wrongs” into “rights,” without affecting an utter disregard for all of the real beauties, refinements and graces of life—who will join me in forming a home of beauty, peace, and affection—who will kindly criticise and aid in those inharmonies of character which I exhibit with the rest of the world—who will bear and forbear—who in himself is just, refined, and truth-loving ?  Who is he, and where is he to be found ? I request, waiting in maidenhood, a reply.

December 13, 1861.                                                                           Marie.