Insights about the military draft in 1864

The draft under the supervision of Sam Richardson commenced here on Friday morning last, and worked like a charm until orders were received from Captain Ballinger to the effect that none need come to the front only those that would come voluntarily. This was a damper on Sam’s draft, and we were very sorry for it. for in a few hours more Sam would have had every man and horse in service from this county that could be of any account to anybody. A great many were found sick to be sure, and claimed to be exempt from military duty; but to such Sam would say no. No exemption in the law Sam follows.

One young man however thought he would play smart and escape the draft by going to St. Joseph. He got up very early in the morning, harnessed his horses, hitched them to his wagon, and started out at full speed thinking he would get into St. Joseph before he would be missed here. Sam missed him very soon notwithstanding he is of but very little account, and started a couple gentlemen after him who overtook him about fifteen miles from Gallatin, and brought him back. It will no doubt be very hard for this young conscript to meet Price in a hostile manner after the many congratulations he gave old Pap, at the time Mulligan surrendered at Lexington. But what does Sam care about that? Sam was after men and men he would have.

If more men are needed let the military authorities send Sam after those that wont volunteer, and if he don’t bring them his draft wont be strong enough. Sam is for hunting rebels, whether at home or in the field.

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Gallatin North Missourian, October 27, 1864, Page 2. via Newspapers.com (https://www.newspapers.com/article/gallatin-north-missourian-the-draft/199333061/ : accessed June 11, 2026), clip page for The Draft by user darryl_gpc54