Mexican-American War and the Media

The steamship New York arrived at New Orleans on the 17^th instant from Galveston, which place she left on the 15^th instant. President Jones has issued another Proclamation, announcing the result of the negotiations that have been commenced by Captain Elliott, the British Charge d’Affaires, with the Mexican Government.

We annex the following abstract of it from the New Orleans Bee:

“The Galveston News Extra, publishes a third Proclamation of President JONES, preceded by a prolix preamble, in which that worthy attempts to gloss over his conduct with the tinsel of a spurious patriotism. He begins thus:

“The executive is now enabled to declare to the people of Texas the actual state of their affairs with respect to Mexico, to the end that they may direct and dispose of them as they shall judge best for the honor and permanent interest of the Republic.

“He then goes on to say that last summer he learned from creditable sources that the Government of Mexico was disposed to acknowledge the Independence of Texas, upon the understanding that Texas would maintain her separate existence; that in March last the representatives of Great Britain and France jointly renewed the offer of their intermediation with Mexico for this purpose; that as they were unaccompanied by any entangling conditions, he could not consent to reject them, and therefore placed in the hands of their representatives a statement of conditions preliminary to a treaty of peace. These conditions having been accepted by the Government of Mexico, through the friendly interposition of England and France, he deems it his duty to issue the following proclamation:-

“’WHEREAS, Authentic proof has recently been laid before me, to the effect that the Congress of Mexico has authorized the Government to open negotiations and conclude a treaty with Texas, subject to the examination and approbation of that body, and further that the Governmet[sic] of Mexico has accepted the conditions prescribed on the part of Texas as preliminary to a final and definite peace.

“’Therefore, I, ANSON JONES, President of the Republic of Texas, and Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy and Militia thereof, do hereby make known these circumstances to the citizens of this Republic, till the same can be more fully communicated to the Honorable Congress and Convention of the People, for their lawful action, at the period of their assembling on the 12^th June and 4^th July next, and presenting the said action by virtue of the authority in me vested, I do hereby declare and proclaim a cessation of hostilities by land and by sea, against the Republic of Mexico, or against the citizens and trade thereof.

“’In testimony whereof, I have caused the Great Seal of the Republic to be thereunto affixed.

“’[L.S. ]-Done at Washington, this fourth day of June, in the year of our Lord, one thousand, eight hundred and forty-five, and of the independence of the Republic the tenth.

“ANSON JONES. ”

By the President:

“EBEN’R ALLEN, Attorney General, and Acting Secretary of State. ”

Most of the papers are excessively indignant at these developments, and even the most moderate, such as the Houston Telegraph, express and emphatic belief that the proposals of Mexico will be promptly rejected by Congress. [DJR]

MGv46n22p3, 31 July 1845

Latest from Texas.

Annexation Ratified – Death of Vice President K.L. Anderson – Incursions and Depredations of the Indians.

From the Baltimore American.

The brig Hope Howes, Capt. Howes, arrived at New Orleans on the 19^th inst. In 40 hours from Galveston. The most important news by this arrival is that the question of Annexation has been finally settled by the Convention which assembled on the 4^th inst. We take the following paragraphs from the New Orleans Picayune and Courier of the 20^th.

The people of Texas assembled in Convention at Austin on the 4^th inst. At one o’clock of that great day, assent to the resolutions of Annexation, passed by the United States Congress, was declared by the delegates. There was but one dissenting voice – Major Bache of Galveston. He afterwards signed the ordinance.

A resolution was passed on the 7^th, requesting, in the name of the people of Texas, the President of the United States to send troops forthwith upon the frontier of Texas.

The Convention is composed of men of of[sic] more than ordinary talent – but few of them believe in “coquetry” in national matters. Committees have had their work apportioned; perfect harmony prevails, and a sound constitution will be formed.

Gen. Rusk was unanimously chosen President – he presides with dignity.

Hon. K.L. Anderson, Vice President of Texas died at Fanthrops, in Montgomery co. , on his way from Washington to his residence.

The British brig Persian had arrived at Galveston from Vera Cruz. She brought despatches for the Government, and was to return as soon as she heard from Washington. It was rumored in Galveston that she was there for the purpose of learning the fact of the Mexican propositions to President Jones, and, if they were rejected, that the fleet of Mexico would be down on Galveston without delay. [DJR]

14 August 1845; MGv46n24p3

MOVEMENT OF TROOPS.

The second regiment of U.S. Dragoons, under the command of Col. TWIGGS, took up the line of march for Texas from Nachitoches on the 25^th ult. The Chronicle says that they are to be stationed at San Antonio de Bexar.

The U.S. Light Artillery under the command of Major RINGGOLD, at Fort McHenry, have received orders from the Secretary of War to hold themselves in readiness to embark for Texas at a moment’s warning. Similar orders, have been given to the troops at other military stations. The Washington “Union” remarks upon these facts:-

“Our troops will probably not take an aggressive attitude in regard to Mexico. If (as some suppose and some indeed say) her troops are on the advance to the frontier, the danger of collision approaches. In all probability, if they undertake the invasion of Texas, they will attempt to drive our troops from the ground they occupy. In such case, our right of defence will authorize us to cripple and destroy their army in any way we please. Then, the game is up. We drive every man of them across the Rio Grande; and all who shall set limits to the storm!” [DJR]

14 August 1845; MGv46n24p3

POSTSCRIPT

RUMORS OF WAR.

Just as we were going to press, the Baltimore mail brought us highly important news from Mexico. We can do no more, at this late hour, than merely announce the rumors afloat in relation to a Declaration of War by Mexico against the United States -
Closing of the Mexican Ports – and the Expulsion of American Citizens from the Country.

The New Orleans papers of the 5^th inst. , say that the Mexican schr. Relampago had arrived from Vera Cruz with dates to the 23^rd ult. Bringing as passengers Senor Arrangoiz, brother of the Mexican Consul at New Orleans, and Mr. Mackey, an American. The latter brought despatches for the Hon. Mr. Buchanan, from Me. Diamond, U.S. Consul at Vera Cruz, which were sent to Washington by mail. It is said that the Relampago came over to carry home the Mexican Consul at New Orleans, in proof of which the Bee of Tuesday says an importing house applied to him to clear a vessel for a Mexican port on Thursday, and that he replied that after Wednesday he would be unable to attend to any such business. The Jeffersonian quotes a letter from Vera Cruz, dated on the 22d ult. Received by a Mexican Gentleman in New Orleans, which says:

“I have to conclude this letter in a hurry, as the news is just in town that war has been declared against the Americans, and the vessels are going off immediately, to prevent being seized. ”

The Courier, after noticing the rumors afloat and the above extract, says:

“We have seen letters from Mexico, of July 22d, which say war is inevitable. The Senate of Mexico had assembled in order to discuss the question of peace or war, and the issue depended on their deliberations. Until the result was known the Mexican ports would continue open as usual to American trade. ”

The Bee says in a postscript:

“We hear from a person who has it from an authentic source that the Mexican government has closed its ports to American commerce. ”

“From such information as we can obtain says the Bulletin, we think it probable that if any belligerent step has been taken, it is that which the Bee states it is creditably informed has been ordered – an embargo upon American commerce. ” [DJR]

21 August 1845; MGv46n25p2

WAR WITH MEXICO.

We are yet unable to determine, from the “lights before us,” what course Mexico means to adopt towards the United States, though appearances of a Declaration of War seem more than probable. The Baltimore American of Monday, says:-

The intelligence from Mexico, though not decisive as to a declaration of War, seems to give greater probability to such a result than has attached to any previous rumors. It appears, however, that the warlike manifesto of the Minister of War and Marine bears date July 16^th, while we have advices from Mexico as late as the 19^th which say nothing of any declaration of war, although the minister announced that it would be submitted to the Congress on the next day, the seventeenth. Something may have occurred to prevent the literal fulfilment of this announcement, or possibly the whole thing may be a mere demonstration of Mexican bluster.

We think the above opinion probably correct, as we cannot imagine what inducement Mexico, in her helpless, distracted and impoverished condition, could expect or hope for in a war with the United States. The present Administration in Mexico stands in a precarious position, and is closely watched by the different factions which so unhappily divide and distract that country. We believe the “thoughts of the Mexican Minister are turned on peace,” but he knows he must bluster a little to feed the peculiar appetite and taste of his people.

The aspect of affairs, however, is of sufficient moment to cause the President of the United States to open his eyes, and to think seriously of calling an Extra Session of Congress. We give below such intelligence as we have, together with the comments and speculations of several prominent journals, and leave our readers to draw their own conclusions. The New Orleans Tropic of the 9^th inst. , says:-

DEPARTURE OF THE MEXICAN CONSUL.

-The Mexican Consul will leave this city to day, on the Relampago, for Vera Cruz. Through the courtesy of our friends of the Bee, which paper contain this morning his address to the Mexicans in this country, we are enabled to state, that, although Senor Arrangoiz has closed his business here, and leaves in obedience to instructions from his government, the period of his departure was left wholly to his own discretion. The instructions to him were predicated, not upon a declaration of war; but upon the unsettled relations between the two countries. We understand that he leaves at this time in order to avoid the gales that usually occur in September. He takes his official papers with him.

The following is the Address referred to in the above:

MEXICAN CONSULATE,

New Orleans August 8^th, 1845.

By order of His Excellency the President of the Republic, I inform the Mexican citizens residing in the U. States that His Excellency has determined that this Consulate be closed, and that I return to Mexico, taking with me its archives, in consequence of the state of our relations with the United States. In compliance with this order, I will this day close my office, and will sail to-morrow for Vera Cruz, on board the Mexican schr. Relampago.

F. DE ARRANGOIZ, Consul.

The New Orleans Bulletin of the 9^th inst. , says:-

The Mexican vessel Relampago, refused yesterday to take the mail we had prepared to send to Mexico and the Sandwich Islands. We learn that the other papers in the city have been treated in the same way. We are at a great loss to understand the proceeding. Can it be sulkiness – or is there really an embargo or declaration of war, made known by the Mexican Consul to the commander of the vessel, which prohibits him from the carriage of American mails? As straws show which way the wind blows, perhaps here may be found a true index to our international relations.

The Washington Union of Saturday evening says that there are no decisive indications of the course which Mexico intends to pursue, and then adds –

The proclamation of Senor Conde, minister of war, on the 16^th, thunders war in our ears. He talks loudly of the supreme government intending to communicate to Congress on the next day, the declaration of war; and declares that the government is covering the different points on the frontiers, and collecting the necessary means, &c. , &c. , to carry it on.

The Mexican consul has also left New Orleans. We have rumors, also of several corps of Mexican troops advancing to the frontiers! One would think that these are pretty conclusive signs of the dessign [sic] of the government of Mexico to change her relations from peace3 to war. It would be clearly so, with almost any other people than with her.

The Washington Union, of later date, speaking of the last advices from Mexico says:-

As far as we are advised, the despatches to our government are not more decisive than our private accounts. War may come. The next arrival may bring the declaration; and yet no man counts upon it with any certainty. Still, it is beat to prepare for the worst; and, acting upon this safe and prudent maxim, we have no doubt that the Executive is taking early precautions to meet the blow, and making every preparation to repel it. Our troops are actually on the frontiers; arms are already at Galveston. The Texans may probably be invited, if necessarry [sic], to cooperate with our troops; and rations will be furnished, if they require it. Our squadrons in the gulf will be on the alert. The first blow that shall be struck by Mexico, will become the signal of efficient and vigorous hostilities on the part of the United States.

The New Orleans Bulletin of the 9^th inst. says:-

As war with Mexico is by many deemed a probable event, some information relative to the strength and resources of our adversary might not at the present crisis be uninteresting. The entire population of the Mexican States, twenty-two in number, is estimated at about seven millions. From this amount a deduction must be made for the Indians, half-breeds and negroes, who constitute about six-sevenths of the census. These are all mere slaves, and a class too ignorant and degraded to be enumerated among the military statistics of the country. In physical vigor and intellectual capability, they are said to be much inferior to the negroes of the South, and are certainly kept under a bondage much more galling and enervating both to mind and body. -

Throwing this part of the population out of the account, there remains only about a million of Mexicans who can be said to be pure Spanish or European descent, upon whom any reliance can be placed for the defence of the country. Even this small fraction of the populace is greatly degenerated, and, compared with the Spaniards of the days of Cortez or the Anglo-Saxons of the present era, may be called an effeminate race.

AN EXTRA SESSION. - The Philadelphia Inquirer of Monday says:-

We hear it rumored on pretty good authority, that should Mexico declare war against the United States, the President will immediately call an extra session of Congress.

It is said that a number of the officers of the Brigade commanded by Gen. A.L. Roumfort, of Philadelphia, have volunteered their services, and that Gen. R. has tendered his own and their services to the General Government, in case of war with Mexico.

Letters of Marque and Reprisal. -We heard it stated on Saturday last, by an intelligent officer of the United States Government, that Mr. Polk was determined, in case of a war with Mexico, to make a terrible example of any foreigner or foreigners, not belonging to Mexico, or parties to the war who may attempt aggressions upon American commerce under color of letters of marque from the Mexican Government. He will give orders to the Naval commanders to treat all such adventurers as pirates, as in reality they will be. -Phila. Ledger.

The ship Kalamazoo sailed for New York on Friday last for Texas, with United States Government troops on board. [DJR]

28 August 1845; MGv46n26p2

MEXICO AND THE U. STATES.

The schooner Walter Witch, at New Orleans, from Vera Cruz, brings the latest intelligence from Mexico. From the New Orleans Tropic of the 14^th, we learn that there has been as yet no declaration of war – and there is not much probability that there will be. The election of a new President commenced on the 1^st inst. There are four Candidates, but the most prominent are Gen. Herrera, the President ad interim, and Gen. Almonte, the late Mexican Minister near our Government. All the bluster and gasconding of the Mexican Ministers may be set down to electioneering tricks to aid the promotion of General Herrera to office. We expect it will be found in the end, that Mexico is in no hurry to declare war against the United States. If she can raise “the needful,” she may attempt to re-conquer Texas, without any declaration of war.

The Ministry has presented an Act to the two Chambers for their deliberation, `1^st. To declare war against the United States; 2d. Authorising them to make a Foreign or National loan to the amount of $15,000,000, which they consider to be requisite to carry on a war and re-conquer Texas. These proposals are now under discussion in the Chambers.

It is reported that 10,000 MEXICAN TROOPS are on their march to Texas, but the New Orleans Picayune regards the story as purely a rumor.

In the mean time, our Government seems to be wide awake, and making every necessary preparation for an outbreak of hostilities. Our troops seem to be on the march from all sections of the Union, bound for Texas. A gentleman on board of the U.S. Ship St. Mary’s, at Galveston, writes under date of August 7^th, that he has learned “that the Mexicans have an army of quite 20,000 men. No doubt our people think that fifteen hundred men are sufficient to eat up Mexico, castles and all, but it will be found that the drilled Mexican soldiers are anything but contemptible foes. - The greatest source of apprehension to our army, however, is from the Camanche Indians, a fierce and warlike tribe in the very heart of Texas; and excited against us, they would prove a most distressing enemy. We expect to be in Pensacola in a few weeks. All well on board this ship. ”

We believe the above constitutes the most important portion of the intelligence brought from the South.

-Since the above was prepared, we3 have received later intelligence from New Orleans.

The Bee of the 16^th, says:- Gen. Gaines, now in our city, having received authentic information to the effect that 10,000 Mexican troops were within eight days’ march of Gen. Taylor, stationed at St. Joseph’s Island, immediately despatched a message to the governor of Louisiana, claiming a requisition of two regiments of volunteers, (of ten companies each) to consist of Infantry, Riflemen and Artilerists [sic]. The requisition was immediately granted. The New Orleans Bulletin of the 18^th, says:-

We look upon the requisition, and the other military movements as measures of precaution, and do not think that the Government or any of its officers are in possession of more definite information in relation to the affairs of Mexico, or the movements of the troops, than has been published in the newspapers. [DJR]

04 September 1845; MGv46n27p2

FROM THE BALTIMORE AMERICAN, SEPT. 1.

MEXICO AND TEXAS.

`The Washington Union of Saturday evening says:-

“We are not advised that the Executive has received any despatches by the Ann Louisa – arrived at New York with Vera Cruz dates of the 3d inst. , and from the capital of the 30^th ult. – later than they had previously received. We announced in last Monday’s ‘Union,’ accounts from the capital as late as the 30^th July. ”

The N.O. papers of the 23d ult, state that a letter had been received in that city from an officer with the army under General Taylor, dated Corpus Christi, August 15. The troops had left St. Joseph’s Island and were encamped on the main land – all in good health and fine spirits – no enemy near – none expected. A courier had been despatched to Matamoras and returned, who reports only 400 men at or near that place. Should this prove true, the reports hitherto received have strangely exaggerated their number.

The camp of Gen. Taylor was very pleasant, with a delightful breeze constantly prevailing.

The subjoined extract of a letter from an officer of the U.S. Dragoons, dated at Nacogdoches, on the 31^st July, we copy from the N.O. Courier of the 22d ult:

“The seven companies of Dragoons arrived here to-day, after a very warm march of six days from Fort Jesup.

“We shall leave here on the 1^st of August for the Trinity, and thence for the San Antonio, where you will again hear from me. The command stood the march very well, and hope to do a good service when we reach the disputed boundary. ”

From the New Orleans Bee, Aug. 23.

MORE VOLUNTEERS. - We understand that Capt. H.S. Harper, of Gainsville, Miss. , will arrive in this city by the steamer J. Dupre, on to-morrow, with a company of 156 volunteers, destined for the Mexican frontier. They style themselves the Mississippi Riflemen. They are well furnished with all the necessary appointments for the campaign, and will hold themselves in readiness to be mustered in the service of the United States at a moment’s warning. It is their intention, we understand, to join the Regiment of Louisiana Volunteers, under the command of Col. Dakin. [DJR]

11 September 1845; MGv46n28p2

TEXAS AND MEXICO.

We learn from the New Orleans Picayune, extra, of August 30, that the Steamship Alabama from Aransas Bay, brings intelligence from Corpus Christi up to the 27^th ult. One of the Editors of the Picayune came passenger in the Alabama, and brings the latest news. There seems to be no foundation for the probability of an engagement between our troops under Genl. Taylor and the Mexicans. So far there is no prospect of a fight. Genl. Taylor, himself, does not anticipate such an event. - Genl. Arista is at Matamoras with about 2,000 men, entrenching himself, and knows of Genl. Taylor’s position. It is believed that if Arista had marched at once upon Genl. Taylor, when he first landed, he might easily have overcome him, but it is now too late. Our army at Corpus Christi now numbers about 2,000 strong, and is in condition to resist four or five times that many Mexicans. The country between Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande, it is said, cannot now support an army in an attack – one of the principal impediments being a scarcity of water, of which there is little or none at all. Our troops are arriving and joining the main army almost every day. The Americans stand the climate very well. We believe the above constitutes the principal items of news brought by the Alabama.

LATEST FROM MEXICO.

Just as our paper was going to press, letters were put into our hands from Pensacola, of the 1^st September, and containing despatches from Vera Cruz of the 18^th and 31^st August. We have only time, this evening to state the substance of the information they convey. An opinion very generally prevailing at Vera Cruz, according to the last accounts, that Mexico would not formally declare war against the United States; and that the government would be able to realize but a very small portion of the loan, if any, which had been authorised – so low was the rate of interest. It was said that, in lieu of a declaration, Mexico would carry on hostilities vigorously against Texas; and they talked of making a rush upon her with 25, 000 men; but this was generally considered as a sheer fable.

The mail of the 18^th had brought news from the city of Mexico of the election of Ge3neral Herrera to the Presidency, and the formation of a new cabinet, consisting of Manuel Pena y Pena, (Minister of Foreign Relations,) Pedro Areaya, (Minister of War,) and Fernandez del Castillo, (Minister of the Treasury. )

On the 16^th August, Captain Shubrick, commander of the United States ship Saratoga, exchanged salutes with the batteries of Vera Cruz. - Wash. Union Sept. 8. [DJR]

18 September 1845; MGv46n29p3

ENDED IN SMOKE.

“Beat the sheep-skin – blow the fife,

And march in training order;

Our way is through the wilderness

And all along the border. ”

A friend has given us a peep at the “Washington Union,” and though we are just ready to go to press, we must stop to let our readers hear a crow or two from General Ritchie over Mexico. The Union gives the substance of the despatches received by our Government from Mexico to which we have alluded in our article under the head of “News from the South. ” These despatches represent the new Mexican Cabinet opposed to the war; and even if otherwise disposed, they are without the means to carry on a war; it is with difficulty they can raise means to defray the daily expenses of Government. The war excitement has subsided among the people. General Paredes absolutely refuses to march against Texas, and has repaired to Mexico, and others have followed his example. The Mexicans are represented as powerless, without money, without credit, torn to pieces by internal feuds and on the eve of revolution, which will overthrow the present government. Paredes, it is said, is aiming to become dictator, and is backed in his plans by Tornel and Valencia. This is a true picture of the poor miserable, poverty-stricken, half-savage Mexican people, and if the reader will only imagine General Ritchie dressed up in a soldier’s coat – with a chapeau and plumes set kimbo on his head – a big wooden sword in his hand – his mouth and heart chock full of glory marching up and down his Editorial Sanctum, he can well appreciate the following grandiloquent burst of glory with which he concludes the important information. Listen, Oh! He progressives, and Whigs give ear, for this great Union – the States of Texas and Austin included – stands in an elevated position, by the side of Mexico!!! The General says:- “Thus pass off the gasconades and blusters of Mexico! In what an elevated position does our country stand in comparison with her; and our bold and prompt Administration with its wise precautionary measures, compared with the hesitating, discouraged, dispirited, disorganized, and revolutionary army and officers of Mexico. ” Truly a fly has been bullied, and the “bold Administration,” with General Ritchie included, look out with pride and satisfaction upon the bloodless fields of their renown. This is “glory enough for one day. ” [DJR]

02 October 1845; MGv46n31p2

FROM TEXAS AND MEXICO.

The U.S. troops assembled at Corpus Christi, Texas, on the 16^th instant, were as follow:- 7 companies 2d dragoons; 7 companies 7^th infantry; 5 companies 5^th infantry; 1 company; [sic] 3d artillery; 10 companies 3d infantry; 10 companies 4^th infantry; 2 companies of volunteer artillery – numbering about 2,200 effective men. There were expected daily 5 companies 5^th infantry; 15 companies of artillery, and 3 companies of 7^th infantry.

A letter from an officer of the U.S. Army, written on the 16^th instant, says- “Our army is in fine condition for active service. We hear of no war, or advance of Mexicans, although they may be forming their army some distance in the interior, behind the Rio Grande, without our knowing it.

Despatches have been received by the War Department from Gen. TAYLOR up to the 14^th instant, but they contain no important information. Arista, the Mexican General, had been at Mier, but not accompanied with a military force; nor was there any indication of the concentration of a Mexican force on the Rio Grande. [DJR]

30 October 1845; MGv46n35p2

CORRESPONDENCE OF THE NEW YORK TRIBUNE.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Sept. 20, 1845.

My Dear Sir: I write to you from the seat of War – or rather of Peace – for here there is neither war, nor the rumor of war. I have concerned myself with more than twenty Mexicans during the last thirty days that I have been on the frontier, from this point 150 miles inland – Mexicans direct from the other side of the Rio Grande – and all concur in saying that there is no movement, on that side, that there has been none, and will be none, rumors to the contrary notwithstanding. The Mexican provinces bordering on the Rio Grande desire peace, and would with extreme reluctance, join any military expedition. There will be no war, unless our troops are ordered to pas the Rio Grande! The Army, under Gen. Taylor, makes a noble appearance – quiet, orderly, well disciplined. I have now finished my travels in Texas, and only wait an opportunity to embark from this place to Galveston, and I shall embrace the first opportunity to return to the North. I have seen nearly every portion of this country: frontier settlements, Camanche Indians, and all else worth seeing.

[DJR]

November

MG45v46n38p1c7 November 20, 1845: Late from Texas. From the New Orleans Picayune, Oct. 25^th

The steamship Cincinnati arrived at this port yesterday from Galveston. She brings us copious flies of Texas papers, those from Galveston coming down to Saturday the 18^th inst.

Ira Munson, Esq. , came passenger in the Cincinnati, with dispatches from the Government to the Texas Legation at Washington.

The U.S. steamer Col. Long arrived at Galveston o the 15^th inst. from this port, and left on the 17^th for Corpus Christi.

The German brig Herschel arrived at Galveston on the 10^th inst. from Bremen, with 138 emigrants, and the following day the brig Aminius, from the same port, with 125 emigrants. They are all destined for the colony of Fisher & Miller. --The News says that among the emigrants there was a number whose appearance gave evidence of superior standing and character.

The election took place in Texas on Monday, the 13^th inst. So strong was the conviction that the opposition to Annexation would be fruitless, that there was not a heavy vote polled. We annex such returns as have reached us, reminding the reader that the vote was taken upon three distinct questions, Annexation, Adoption of the Constitution and the Ordinance. --[The ordinance the reader will recollect, relates to Colonization Contracts:]

City of Galveston

For Annexation	270	Against Annexation	121
" Constitution	284	" Constitution	83
" Ordinance	269	" Ordinance	65

The highest vote here polled upon Annexation, was but 391, but little over half the legal vote of the city.

City of Houston

For Annexation	241	Against Annexation	44
" Constitution	223	" Constitution	58
" Ordinance	195	" Ordinance	60

Here again the total vote, 285, is very small, no interest being excited.

From one of our exchanges we learn that Mr. McGloin, the former Empresario of San Patricio, has moved with his family from San Antonio to the former place, in company with several other families. Confidence appears to be again restored to the long deserted West.

The Houston Telegraph gives 11,359 bales as the amount of cotton shipped form Houston for the twelve months preceeding the 31^st of August last. The Telegraph says it is the opinion of Mr. Davis, the proprietor of the cotton warehouse, that there will be nearly double the quantity shipped form Houston this year.

The Galveston Civilian ridicules the “speculative demand” which sprung up in this market a fortnight since for Texas money. The Civilian coolly remarks:

Texas has at present no mode of paying either principal or interest of this species of paper credit. It is not even receivable for public lands. If the U.S. Government hereafter chooses to redeem this paper at par, and take out lands, Texas will probably offer no objection, but if Texas is to make payment, she will possibly have some regard for the law of equivalents, and may refuse or be unable to pay ten or fifteen millions of dollars in specie, for that which neither realized to her nor cost the holders one-third of that sum!

The Civilian adds, that the prospect of redemption of Texas money at par is “neither immediate nor clear. ”

The papers mention an affray which not long since took place in Nacogdoches county, between a Mr. Selman and a Mr. Banks, in which the former was stabbed through the heart.

The old story has been revived, on what is deemed “the best authority,” that a plan had been matured in Tamaulipas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Sonora and California, for the annexation of those provinces to the Republic of Texas, in case she had determined to remain separate and independent. According to this story, several leading men in the central part of Mexico expressed their determination, in this event, to remove to the above named provinces, in order to enjoy the blessings of a peaceful and stable Government.

The Houston Telegraph mentions that the Lipans and Tonkawas are preparing to abandon their late encampments on the tributaries of the Guadaloupe and San Antonio, and intend removing high up on the Colorado, to occupy a portion of the country lately granted them by the Camanches. Many of the warriors of these tribes have intermarried with the Camanches.

The same paper indulges in some reflections upon the Camanches, and the late efforts of the Texas Government to conclude a treaty with them at Torry’s trading-house. This was the fifth attempt of the Government, and the Indians appeared as timid and suspicious as ever. They, however, pledged themselves to maintain a permanent peace for the settlers. It is presumed that they craved more liberal presents of the Texans, and will now apply for such to the Mexicans. It matters little, according to the Telegraph, which regards their military power as utterly broken. [LA]

MG45v46n38p1c7 November 20, 1845 Three Days Later From Texas.

The steamship New York, Philips master, sailed form Galveston on the 23d inst. and arrived here last evening. She bring us no news whatever. --N. O. Pic, 26^th.
[LA]

MG45v46n38p1-2c7-1 November 20, 1845 Ho, For Texas!

The barque Ann W. Stevens, J. M. Stevens, master, from Bremen and Bremenhaven, (a port some five miles below Bremen, on the river Weiser,) arrived here a few days ago, with one hundred and thirty-nine German emigrants, most of who were bound for Texas. One hundred and five of the above number started for Red River on the Rob Roy, on Friday last. These go to form a colony near the line bordering between our young sister State and Louisiana. The are well supplied and all the utensils necessary for a border life, and from their appearance seem to be persons qualified in every particular to the successful in their undertaking. Prosperity and happiness to them, say, we, with all our heart. --N.O. Delta, Oct. 26
[LA]

MG45v46n38p2c1 November 20, 1845 Crops in Texas

The New Orleans Delta condenses the views of the state of the crops in Texas as follows:

Corn Crop.--The crop in the Red River and Northern counties has been greatly injured by the drouth. The editor of the Northern Standard mentions that the neighborhood of Clarksville is the only section of the Red River counties where there will be much corn for sale. He states also the corn in the Choctaw Nation is burned up. Fortunately for the people of that section the crop of potatoes will be very abundant.

Cotton Crop. --The severe drouth that prevailed during nearly the whole of the months of July and August, throughout the western and middle counties of Texas, has materially injured the cotton crop. --Along the whole line of the Colorado, from Columbia to Austin, it is estimated, says the Houston Telegraph, that the crop will fall short nearly one-half. On the Brazos above San Felipe, the planters will scarcely make more than two-thirds of an average crop; and on the Trinity the crop is as light as on the Colorado. In the eastern counties, the crop is said to be better than it is in any of the counties west of the Trinity. It is probable that the while crop of Texas will scarcely exceed ninety thousand bales. Last year it was estimated at over one hundred thousand bales.

There were shipped from Houston, from September 1^st, 1844, to August 31^st, 1845, eleven thousand, three hundred and fifty-nine bales of cotton. [LA]

December

11 December 1845; MGv46n41, EXTRA

MESSAGE

OF THE

President of the United States.

[02] DECEMBER, 1845.

Fellow Citizens of the Senate

And House of Representatives:

[The entirety of this address can be found at: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/site/docset/sou/polk1.htm

Included here is a brief excerpt that treats U.S. -Mexican relations. ]

I regret to inform you that our relations with Mexico, since your last session, have not been of the amicable character which it is our desire to cultivate with all foreign nations. On the 6^th day of March last, the Mexican envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary to the United States made a formal protest, in the name of his government, against the joint resolution passed by Congress, “for the annexation of Texas to the United States,” which he chose to regard as a violation of the rights of Mexico, and, in consequence of it, he demanded his passports. He was informed that the government of the United States did not consider this joint resolution as a violation of any of the rights of Mexico, or that it afforded any just cause of offence to his government; that the Republic of Texas was an independent Power, owing no allegiance to Mexico, and constituting no part of her territory or rightful sovereignty and jurisdiction…

…But though Mexico cannot complain of the United States on account of the annexation of Texas, it is to be regretted that serious causes of misunderstanding between the two countries continue to exist, growing out of unredressed injuries inflicted by the Mexican authorities and people on the persons and property of citizens of the United States, through a long series of years. Mexico has admitted these injuries, but has neglected and refused to repair them. Such was the character of the wrongs, and such the insults repeatedly offered to American citizens and the American flag by Mexico, in palpable violation of the laws of nations and the treaty between the two countries of the fifth of April, 1831, that they have been repeatedly brought to the notice of Congress by my predecessors… [DJR]

25 December 1845; MGv46n43p1

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR.

The following is a brief sketch of the contents of this document, which we take from the Washington Union:

It exhibits, in the first instance, the organization, strength, and constitution of the regular army. The rank and file – embracing every arm of the service – does not exceed 6,500 men. At this time, there is stationed but a single regiment on the northern frontier, from Maine to Lake Superior – an extent of two thousand miles; and on the whole line from the Falls of St. Anthony to New Orleans, (fifteen hundred miles,) only one regiment of dragoons and two of infantry. The artillery regiments – reduced by detachments of four companies from each – now garrison the fortification of the seaboard, from Newport to New Orleans. The remaining and larger proportion of the army is now stationed in Texas. The report gives an interesting account of the political reasons which have induced the government to give them this destination. The Secretary does not think it prudent to remove the troops from this position until our relations with Mexico have assumed a more amicable character. In the event of there being any necessity to increase the army, he proposes to build upon the basis of the regiments, by adding to the rank and file of each company, instead of creating new regiments. This necessity may be found in the course of Mexico, or in the conduct of the Camanches, or of the Indians that are found in Oregon or that may interrupt the increasing current of emigration to the Rocky mountains. By the proposed arrangement of filling up the infantry companies to sixty-eight men, and the dragoons to sixty, the privates are increased, without a corresponding augmentation of the officers.

The report suggests that, besides this increase of the number of privates in the two existing regiments of dragoons, another regiment of dragoons, or mounted riflemen may be necessary, in the event of extending our posts to the Rocky mountains.

It states that, thought the concentration of so large a proportion of the army on the frontier of Texas may have, in some measure, enlarged the expenditures,) certainly in the article of transportation,) yet it has in some degree, been compensated by the improvement which has taken place in the discipline of troops. It renews the recommendation of establishing a corps of sappers, miners, and pontoniers, to assist among other things, in constructing bridges, in consequence of the military occupation of Texas. One hundred men will be sufficient for the purpose.

The report gives a rapid but interesting account of Colonel Kearney’s expedition during the last summer, to the South Pass of the Rocky mountains; the impression it produced among the Indians; the number of emigrants whom it met on their way to Oregon, to the number of 2,325 men, women, and children, with 7,000 head of cattle, 400 horses and mules, and 460 wagons. This report of Colonel Kearney accompanies the communication of the commanding general, and will furnish, no doubt, an interesting store of extracts, at a season of greater leisure. It also refers to the adventures of another detachment of the dragoons, under the command of Captain Sumner nearly to the northern line of the United States, between Lake Superior and the Lake of the Woods. Among the Indians whom they met with on their route, and upon whom they made a due impression with their military array, was a numerous band of the half-breeds of the Red river of the North, who had come from the region of the Hudson Bay Company into our lines, to hunt buffalo. They had even solicited permission to reside in the United States.

The Secretary refers to the considerations which had prompted General Gaines to despatch the volunteers of Louisiana to the camp of General Taylor. Ample justice is done to their gallantry, and Congress is invited to make appropriations for their compensation. General Taylor had also accepted the services of four Texan companies of mounted men for three months.

The estimates for the ensuing year do not greatly vary from those of former years. The item for arming the fortifications is increased $100,000. The attention of Congress is directed to the state of the fortifications – to the armories of Springfield and Harper’s Ferry – to the establishment of a national foundry for cannon – to the preservation of the gunpowder belonging to the government – to the condition of the mineral lands in the Northwest, which the Secretary proposes to transfer from the management of the ordnance department to some other, (the President’s message suggests to the land office. )

It calls the attention of Congress to the forty-eight forts in process of construction; and to the propriety of erecting new forts at other points. Among these, as suggested by the reports of the engineers, are fortifications of the narrows at Staten Island and at Sandy Hook, and the condition of the long-suspended fortress at the Pea Patch; an additional work at Sollers Point, for the protection of Baltimore; and projected fortifications on the Florida reefs.

The Secretary speaks with great consideration of the schools at West Point, and proposes some improvements. He calls special attention to the report of the chief of the corps of topographical engineers – to the improvement of the harbors on the lakes, which are so well calculated to furnish accommodations to steamers that, in a state of war, may be turned to the most effective purposes, and to furnish facilities to a commerce that is now estimated at one hundred millions of dollars annually.

The Secretary speaks with enthusiasm of the expeditions under Captain Fremont, and his valuable services. He refers to the reports of the pension office, which has now registered upon its books 28,921 pensioners – 2,371 added during the last year, and 1,436 known to have died. He devotes a considerable space to the Indian agency and the Indians – the Potawatomies, the Choctaws, and particularly the Cherokees. He lays before the President some highly interesting communications from our Indian sub-agent in the territory of Oregon.

He dedicates the conclusion of his comprehensive and very interesting report to a subject which is of so profound importance in a free government, [illegible] the organization of the militia. He suggests various alterations; and among the rest, submits the question whether it might not be advisable to reduce the period of service from 18 years of age to 21, upon the ground that although citizens of eighteen years of age are not too young to bear arms, they are not generally in a situation to equip themselves with arms as the law requires. [DJR]

The information on this site is intended for personal, non-profit, and/or educational purposes only.

| Department of History | Site Map | Contact Us |

The Mexican-American War and the Media, 1845-1848

The information on this site is intended for personal, non-profit, and/or educational purposes only.

©2005 Linda Arnold