This is just the beginning! Our collection holds over 300 years of history, including rare newspapers, obituaries, marriage records, birth records, and so much more—most of which you won’t find anywhere else!
This newspaper page contains 35 articles. Subscribers can read the full text of each article.
Newspaper
Bristol Phenix
Location
Bristol, Rhode Island, United States of America
Date
Apr 27, 1861
Page
2
The passage asserts renewed American patriotism following recent events, comparing present sentiment to 1776. It argues that unity and faith in free government must be preserved, praising public resolve and the surge of patriotic feeling across classes and incomes.
The piece notes a striking April 19 coincidence linking the conspirators clash with government and the first bloodshed by Massachusetts patriots from the same county and towns affected in 1775, suggesting a symbolic tie and renewed resolve for the countrymen.
The Bristol Train of Artillery under Col. E M Wardwell returned home after repairing to Providence last Wednesday as ordered by the Governor. Volunteers numbered nearly double the quota and they would have joined the defense but were not needed this time. The company remains ready for the next call.
Citizens throng streets at mail arrivals to hear news from locations where troops are gathered. Flags fly from the Amory and King Philip Engine House the Sugar Refinery Custom House the Light School house and two ars on Statestreet signaling strong civic excitement.
The town notes resignations among naval officers and urges a call for volunteers to fill slots. It mentions local ship masters who could serve as officers and expresses hope volunteers will appear when needed. Also reports a Monday night cannon firing at Phenix village that disturbed residents and involved a ruined new company, a salute, and church bells.
At the request of many patients helped by Dr Shurmitz he will stay in Providence at No 52 Weetminstar street over EW Billings store until the first of July. Those seeking his services should improve the opportunity.
Correspondent describes a fortnight in Dresden with remarks on the Picture Gallery famed for the Raphael Madonna and fine Chinese porcelain. Observes open galleries, German concerts, and the green vaults in the King's Palace. Mentions precious items, gift eggs, and Prussian plates, noting local prices and social scenes.
Five hundred twenty five men of the Rhode Island regiment left Providence for Washington aboard the Empire State after a ceremony at Fox Point. Acting Governor Bartlett presented a Continental flag to Colonel Pitman, who asked the troops if they would defend it, to which they answered yes. The unit total is about 1200 RI men, not counting the Marina Artillery. the regiment’s official complement is 780.
The May edition showcases several fine engravings and a strong literary section. Notable pieces include A Great Bargain by Mary W. Janvrin and My Forte by Lfisa Froas, with contributions from Mr. and Mrs. Rasper and other items.
The Atlantic Monthly May issue introduces Mrs Harriet Beecher Stowe's pen romance Aanes or Sorrento a tale of love and duty. The heroine a young girl from a Catholic country embodies religious influence on life and character, a topic of much US discussion. A Beauregard report to the President is noted as incorrect.
Henry F Newell was arraigned before Justice Munro on a charge of brutal outrage and committed for trial to the Court of Common Pleas. He waived examination and was sent to jail. Newell had fled but returned Friday and was recaptured by police.
In this town several women are organizing a sewing circle to prepare cloth articles for volunteers. They plan to gather materials and work together to meet the clothing needs of those serving.
Citizens of Warrem Newport and nearby towns approve a monthly ten dollar stipend for volunteers serving the country. The measure targets residents in service to support troops and local efforts.
The passage notes Patriots across the free states contributing large sums to government needs with figures such as four million from William B. Astor and one million from Stewart and others, highlighting widespread financial support.
Providence Journal cites a plan to resume summer train times and urges citizens to organize nightly drills. The author calls for widespread, improvised training using any available space and old guns to form new regiments, arguing it will boost volunteers and military spirit.
The Providence Journal reports the relief felt in Washington as Rhode Island troops and New York regiments arrived Sunday night. Citizens described the moment as a thrilling lift after a painful period, marking the first signs of easing burdens in the capital.
On New Year and April 25 Thurlow Weel reports all troops that departed Sunday evening are now in Washington. Rhode Island units are included among the travelers.
A New York Tribune correspondent reports the Marine Artillery Corps from Rhode Island under Captain Tompkins with 135 men arrived Friday evening and are quartered on the fair grounds waiting orders. They have rifled cannon ninety six horses and a fine corps. Lieutenant Governor Arnold is with them.
The Empire State with Lieut. Col. Pitman’s detachment arrives at dawn. Troops embark for Washington as regiments from New York and Massachusetts arrive. Reports cite arms seizures, enlistment surges, and preparations across Raleigh, Norfolk, and Richmond with multiple generals directing mobilization and defense.
The message notes rapid fitting of light-draft steamers at New York for blockading service in southern waters. It stresses hastening the fleet before Jeff. Davis's pirates emerge from their dens.
The North American reports from April 23 that 10 000 to 12 000 troops can move from Pennsylvania to Washington in a day. Nurses from Philadelphia enroll, and Norfolk Portsmouth face fires as shipyards burn. Union crews blow up ships and stores, destroying the yard including the Cumberland, New York, Delaware, and Merrimac.
Dispatches from Washington state report 14 000 troops with 5 000 regiments yesterday and Baltimore led calls to send Virginia troops to Harper's Ferry. Henry Winter Davis's house was entered by a mob and his family unharmed. German Turners fortifications were looted as clashes erupted near Cuckeyville Union meeting. Baltimore police attempted to burn a bridge to Pennsylvania line but were repelled by counter mobs. Conspiracy rumors about African Americans in St Mary’s County spread as patrols manned roads.
The Savannah Republican reports the government at Montgomery will not authorize reprisals before Congress assembles on the 20th instant. It urges parties to file applications and bonds immediately to maintain precedence in the process.
From New Orleans reports indicate northern states remain united, dampening fears of a divided government. The Journal of Commerce notes strong collective sentiment forming in Louisiana as public opinion consolidates amid evolving politics.
The Rhode Island Regiment under Gov Sprague numbering 1000 men arrived and departed from the Ariel at sundown, amid immense crowds along the harbor. Piers and boats filled with spectators saluted as cannon and steam whistles proclaimed the farewell while Archbishop Hughes and other citizens draped stars and stripes in mourning. A large number of foreign born citizens volunteer alongside Irish and German militia regiments.
Five women of high regard have volunteered to serve in the hospital department for the Rhode Island Regiment amid the current crisis. Names are withheld, but officers are informed who to call for assignments in Providence.
A New York Tribune report quotes Jerr. Davis in Mobile claiming Jeff Davis & Co plan to seize coin and convertible assets from seceded banks. Banks reportedly moved available funds to New York for safety, prompting many suspected money holders to flee the South.
The Jamel Adzer carried a locomotive boiler with connections for twelve or more farina boilers and a large farina supply to furnish five hundred pounds daily for the army. Contributed by Hecker & Brothers of Croton and Metropolitan Flour Mills. The boiler will be set up in Washington as soon as possible under Francis C. Treadwell's supervision.
The report lists Havre de Grace near the Susquehanna mouth 62 miles from Philadelphia with ferry links. Annapolis 50 miles from Havre de Grace and 39 miles by rail from Washington. Annapolis Junction 19 miles from Annapolis and 20 from Washington. Fort Monroe 48 hours from Boston and 24 from Newark. Norfolk 12 miles south of Fort Monroe. Cockeysville 15 miles from Baltimore on the line to Harrisburg. Baltimore 98 miles from Philadelphia 38 from Washington 85 from Harrisburg 81 from Harpers Ferry and 17 from Annapolis Junction.
An old soldier counsels volunteers with practical tips via the New York Post. He stresses avoiding sickness, proper blanket and hat choices, growing a beard for protection, keeping clean, moderating coffee and meat, and using a lightweight white shawl to shield from sun. He cites General Scott on fever risks and notes Algerian marching methods for heat protection.
A Providence Press notice describes the Sisters of Mercy in Providence offering their services to the Rhode Island regiment. They pledge to perform any duties needed, praised for their intended support during the war era.
In a Providence Press report, Lieut Pitman bids farewell to commandants of the companies before a Saturday review. He expresses readiness to go at a moment’s notice, and vows to remain brothers in arms. Capt Brown and Col Pitman shake hands, signaling reconciliation.
A Providence Press item recalls a mother visiting a Mechanic Rifles recruit. She urges William to perform his duty, stand by his country in battle, and return with honor or die without disgracing his family. She expresses pride and readiness to sacrifice for the regiment.
A visitor from Montgomery reports wealthy residents fleeing to Pensacola and every able man pressed into service amid strong war fever. He says the Southern Confederacy Congress may declare war, and President Davis is to depart for Richmond.
The Louisville Journal says the war began at Charleston when the Southern army bombarded Sumter after the U S government notified Washington would not aid with reinforcements but would send food by an unarmed vessel. It condemns the attack as bloody and unjust.
We want people to find what they are looking for at NewspaperArchive. We are confident that we have the newspapers that will increase the value of your family history or other historical research. With our 7-day free trial, you can view the documents you find for free.
People find the most success using advanced search. Try plugging in keywords, names, dates, and locations, and get matched with results from the entire collection of newspapers at NewspaperArchive!
You can also successfully find newspapers by these browse options. Explore our archives on your own!
Browse by location and discover newspapers from all across the world.
Browse by date and find publications for a specific day or era.
Browse old newspaper publications to find specific newspapers.