DIY History | Transcribe | Civil War Diaries and Letters | George C. Burmeister diary, 1861

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1861-08-29 -- 1861-09-01

Thurs. 29.  Governor Gamble demands 42000 men for the state of Mo. to cooperate with the federal troops, in protecting lives and property, if this number does not volunteer it will become necessary to commence drafting. I am attempting to make progress in book keeping.

Fri. 30.  I do not perceive that I am making any progress under the instruction of Mr. Jones, but he tells me to be patient. I saw Charley's sweetheart, a good looking cleanly girl, I also visited a place called Melodeon Garden.

Sat. 31.  
Provost Marshall McKinstry issued a proclamation forbidding all the bar room keepers to keep their houses open, unless they first obtain permission from him. This was done to avoid the frequent disturbances of the peace, it caused quite a sensation with the people.

September 1.
Sunday.  Hermann his wife and myself took a trip to the fair grounds to see the military, we saw a good many soldiers on parade. Comfortable winter quarters are being erected here for the army, the week is progressing rapidly. The troops now in and near St. Louis are estimated at between 35,000 & 40000 men. We did not stay long on account of the great dust. Gen. Fremont has declared martial law throughout the state of Missouri, promising death to armed rebels, the freedom of their slaves, and the confiscation of their property. And assuring loyal citizens of his protection. Startling as this appears, it was an act of necessity for prudence, well may secessionists tremble now.

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Thurs. 29. Governor Gamble demands 42000 men for the state of Mo. to cooperate with the federal troops, in protecting lives and property, if this number does not volunteer it will become necessary to commence drafting. I am attempting to make progress in book keeping. Fri. 30. I do not perceive that I am making any progress under the instruction of Mr. Jones, but he tells me to be patient. I saw Charley's sweetheart, a good looking cleanly girl, I also visited a place called Melodeon Garden. Sat. 31. Provost Marshall McKinstry issued a proclamation forbidding all the bar room keepers to keep their houses open, unless they first obtain permission from him. This was done to avoid the frequent disturbances of the peace, it caused quite a sensation with the people. September 1. Sunday. Hermann his wife and myself took a trip to the fair grounds to see the military, we saw a good many soldiers on parade. Comfortable winter quarters are being erected here for the army, the week is progressing rapidly. The troops now in and near St. Louis are estimated at between 35,000 & 40000 men. We did not stay long on account of the great dust. Gen. Fremont has declared martial law throughout the state of Missouri, promising death to armed rebels, the freedom of their slaves, and the confiscation of their property. And assuring loyal citizens of his protection. Startling as this appears, it was an act of necessity for prudence, well may secessionists tremble now.