Manuscript Database
Creator/Title
Speed family. Papers, 1780-1905. 0.66 cu. ft.
Call No.
Mss. A S742i / 8
Content
In a letter dated 4 April 1861, James Buckner, Hopkinsville, Ky., writes to state representative Landruff Andrews that he fears that Andrews may be drifting toward secession. He further states that "if the southern states which have gone out won't come back, let them stay out." James Speed, Louisville, Ky., writes to Rep. Andrews stating that he is in doubt about the strength of Buckner's army, 17 September 1861. He understands that the rebels are fortifying Bowling Green. They have been committing many outrages below Green River. He agrees that Gen. William Nelson is first rate for organization but not for the field. Thomas Spencer Speed, Springdale, Ky., writes to his son, Lt. Thomas Speed (12th Kentucky Infantry), stating that the town has had a little scare-up about guerrillas recently, 25 April 1864. The shops were shuttered up and money hidden and the militia assembled. The rebels held the court house. It turned out that a group of home guards had been mistaken for rebels. In subsequent letters to his son, dated 9, 24 June 1864, 20 March 1865, Thomas states that they have been following the war very closely and wonders if the war is worth what it has already cost in lives. "Negro troops have been recruited in Owensboro for 2 weeks. This has created great and bitter excitement". Many slaves have left the farms, whereas his have been content and work well. He also includes descriptions of rebel and guerrilla activity.