Ross County Military

WAR OF 1812 -OHIO

 

The Centinel, Gettysburg, Pa , April 22 1812

 

Chillicothe, April 11, 1812

Marching Orders

 

We are informed that Capt. Manary of the first company of Rangers has received orders to march on Monday next for Urbana in the county of Champaigne where he will be met by Governor Meigs who will give the necessary orders for the protection of our frontier.  We understand that the company is not yet completed but it is expected that the ranks will be filled up by the time they reach the place of rendezvous.

 

 

The Centinel, Gettysburg, Pa , August 5, 1812

 

Chillicothe, July 25, 1812

Chillicothe Patriotism

 

Late on Saturday evening last an express arrived in town with a letter from Gen. Hull to Governor Meigs, stating that the army was very deficient in provisions, that Mr. Piatt was authorized to furnish a supply for two months and that the communication must be preserved by the militia of this state or the army would perish for the want of provisions.  The letter concludes with saying "we have the fullest confidence that you will do all in your power to prevent so distressing a calamity."  A letter was, at the same time received from the contractor stating that provisions were deposited at Urbana ready to be marked on horses, but that he should be obliged to wait for a convoy of troops to protect it and open a new road, as the old one is almost impassable.

 

At the time the above dispatches were received, the Governor was at his residence in Marietta.  The next morning (Sunday) they were opened by the secretary of state and immediately on their contents being made known the drum beat to arms. It is with peculiar pleasure we record the patriotic spirit displayed by our citizens on the occasion. 

 

After marching through the streets a short time, between 60 and 70 volunteers stepped into the ranks at the call.  No distinction of party or profession was known. The federalist, the republican, the farmer, the mechanic, the lawyer and merchant indiscriminately determined to shoulder muskets and brave every danger to relieve their fellow countrymen who are now in Canada. 

 

On Monday morning the company paraded at the court house when they elected Henry Brush, Captain; William Beach, Lieutenant and John Stockton, Ensign and then drew their arms.  Being without uniforms they instantly agreed upon a suitable one for the purpose, immediately purchased the stuff and through the exertions of the ladies they were all completed before evening. 

 

In the meantime the rest of  the citizens were not idle.  Moulds being first made, some were engaged in moulding bullets, some in moulding buckshot, and some in making cartridges.  Before evening near 2,000 cartridges, each containing a ball and three buckshot, were made and other necessaries, such as provisions, canteens, knapsacks, blankets and other camp equipage provided all at the expense of private individuals.  Early the next morning the started for Urbana, accompanied by the citizens in regular march a few miles out of town.  Thus in less than 24 hours a large company of volunteers was raised, completely equipped and on their march through a hostile and wilderness country. 

 

The zeal and promptitude displayed by our citizens on this occasion deserves the highest encomiums; although they did not illuminate and disturb the peace of society by mobs and rejoicing when the received the Declaration of War; yet they have exhibited that true spirit of patriotism which when required, steps forth with alacrity to defend her country's rights. 

 

It will be recollected this is the fourth company who have volunteered their services and are now in actual service from this town and its vicinity - two of whom are not in Canada.  Another company of mounted riflemen from the vicinity met for the purpose of volunteering their services on the present occasion had the Governor been here to accept of them.  Let each state follow the example of Ohio, especially Chillicothe and its vicinity and the contest in which we are engaged will soon come to an honorable termination. - Supporter,

 

The Centinel, Gettysburg, Pa , August 26 1812

Chillicothe, Aug. 15

A call has been made by the governor of this state for 300 men from the 1st division and 300 from the 3d division who are to join Gen. Hull as quick as possible.  When these troops join the army the effective force from this state in actual service will amount to upwards of 3000 men.

 




(submitted by Nancy Piper)