Iowa CIVIL War Copperheads -a Patriot Militia Call To Arms Letter

Iowa was a staunch Union state during the Civil War, but also had a passionate Peace Democrat Party, In 1863 disturbances broke out near Sigourney, Keokuk County when armed factions clashed in what was known as the Skunk River or Tally's War. Iowa Governor Samuel Kirkwood, furious, directed General Nathaniel Baker to supply Springfield rifles to the loyal citizens and called for formation of patriotic militia groups. An Original Civil War letter from William C Smith at Timber Creek, Marshall County, Iowa, Aug 16, 1864 to General Nathaniel Baker reporting that the citizens of Timber Creek are organizing a military company but "the Democracy as they call themselves" have prevented the plan. He reports the loyal citizens have met again & enrolled a company of 54 men and officers; some men were delayed by the harvest but are now ready & the writer requests muster blanks to complete enrollment for the men who have named themselves "The Timber Creek Guards".

The 3pp letter is signed, and on reverse General Baker notes that the Timber Creek Guards want to be recognized as one of the 12 Companies to be organized in Marshall County. 3pp ink, 8 x 5.

Age spots, minor edge wear, Overall VG William C Smith was an Iowa pioneer who taught the first school in Marshall County in a log hut at Timber Creek. Y American Military & Historical items, especially American Civil War ephemera- letters, military & historic documents including broadsides, commissions, General Orders and other imprints and badges.

NOTE: Any repair to a paper item is listed. I use only museum curator approved archival repair tape.

All items are unconditionally guaranteed to be authentic and in the condition as described.

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