A group of respected citizens from San Francisco traveled to Benicia to meet with Governor Johnson regarding the current crisis in the city. The citizens, led by Col. Crockett, requested a personal interview with the Governor to discuss the situation. After some initial reluctance from Judge Terry, the Governor agreed to meet with the Committee. Col. Crockett assured the Governor that the citizens were not affiliated with the Vigilance Committee and sought to avoid further conflict with the civil authorities. The Committee also presented resolutions promising to comply with legal processes and refrain from displaying weapons in public. Col. Crockett expressed the Committee's efforts to promote peace and settlement, urging the Governor not to escalate the situation.
Between the Lines
This historical document, concerning the 1856 meeting between the San Francisco Committee of Vigilance and Governor J. Neely Johnson, provides significant insight into the socio-political climate of the era, particularly in relation to the maintenance of order and legality in the rapidly growing city of San Francisco.
The period saw the region of California in a particularly challenging socio-political situation, sparked by the Gold Rush of 1848 which massively increased the population of San Francisco from 1,000 to around 25,000 in just a year. This rapid influx of fortune seekers resulted in a period of disorder and lawlessness. Out of this chaos, vigilante committees, like the one mentioned in the article, arose with the intention of maintaining order and justice within the city. However, they often lacked proper legal jurisdiction and process, leading to tensions with state officials.
The committee sought a meeting with the Governor, as evidenced by the quote: "The undersigned citizens of San Francisco, on their own behalf, and on behalf of a large portion of the people of that city, respectfully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs." Here, the self-appointed representatives of the city requested a meeting to discuss the crisis, showing their self-perceived authority and willingness to address the difficult state of affairs.
It is important to note the committee's attempt at distancing themselves from unlawfulness and their intent to respect the civil authorities, as suggested in the quote: "He stated in emphatic terms that the Committee, of which he was chairman, had no connection with the Vigilance Committee, or its movements... that they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus." It outlines the committee's promise of obedience to the law and commitment to peace, indicating that the violation of civil authority was not their intent, despite their vigilante status.
Interestingly, the document seems to include the committee's suggestion of a plan for pacification and settlement: "He concluded by urging in the most earnest manner that the Governor should not precipitate the…", although the text cuts off at this point. This indicates the effort by the committee to be proactive in crafting solutions and provides evidence of the active political participation of citizens during this challenging time.
In conclusion, this document provides a fascinating view into a lesser-known side of the Gold Rush period, revealing the challenges faced by authorities and citizens alike, as they navigated the push and pull between maintaining order and respecting the bounds of law.
Embark with us on an exploration of the events that unfolded on a seemingly unsuspecting Saturday in June, when notable citizens rallied together to address their concerns with Governor J. Neely Johnson. Their purpose? Tackling the 'alarming crisis' that was encroaching upon their cherished city.
"…respectfully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs."
Birthed from a sense of concern and civic duty, these words, embedded in the letter addressed to the Governor, highlight the spirit of civic heroes ready to shoulder their city's plight. Discerning readers can easily detect a semblance of desperation subtly woven into their plea, a striking depiction of the seriousness of their situation.
Often characterized by instances of civil agitations and resolute quests for justice, San Francisco's historical fabric has an unique thread running through it. This occurrence of negotiation with the Governor magnifies the essence of San Francisco – an undaunted spirit to battle for its identity, a virtue that continues to reverberate in its present discourse.
Trailing their journey to Benecia, unaffiliated to any political group and guided solely by their ambition to avert the impending doom threatening their hometown, we meet a spectrum of esteemed societal contributors—from Col. J.B. Crockett to G.W.P. Bissell. Their collective efforts tell a tale of communal responsibility that continues to echo in the present sphere of activism and community participation in shaping policies.
The historical face-off at the Solano Hotel, offers a vital highlight — Col. Crockett's earnest plea to the governor for peace and alignment with civil authorities. His discourse centered on moving away from gratuitous displays of weaponry and avoiding conflicts.
"... they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus which might be addressed to them and that they would desist in future from any exhibition of arms on the street, or in public places..."
This declaration conveys an essential ideology from the era – one that underscored the importance of legal obedience in maintaining societal order during the most tumultuous times. Their commitment, evident in their acknowledgment of the rule of law, draws parallels to the approach followed by modern civil rights movements, which often underscore lawful action as a tool for societal reform.
The governor’s readiness to open a dialogue and address their grievances also sets the stage for the ever-embraced "Government for the people" sentiment. It shines a light on the democratic principles that would gradually cement Californian, and indeed American, governance.
While this story unravels San Francisco's past, it simultaneously offers a glimpse into its present. The enduring quest for social justice through adherence to the rule of law, amplified by the civic commitment of the city's citizens, remains an integral part of its character.
Diving into these historical narratives unfolds valuable insights into our societal evolution and cultural progression. They teach us timeless lessons of unity, audacity, responsibility, and respect for the law. Essentially, through the lens of the past, we are offered a clearer understanding of our shared lineage. The events that transpired on that pivotal Saturday in 1856 continue to ripple through time, certainly shaping our perception of community, decorum, and the art of negotiating peace.
As renowned poet, Maya Angelou rightly said, "History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again."
2. 'Governor J. Neely Johnson' - This person is a historical figure from California's history. For further reading into his governance and political career, refer to [J. Neely Johnson's biographical profile](https://governors.library.ca.gov/04-Johnson.html) from the California Governor's Library.
3. 'Civic heroes and activism in San Francisco' - This phrase discusses the tradition of active civic participation and social justice in the city. More about this topic can be found through the article [San Francisco History: Activism](http://www.foundsf.org/index.php?title=Category:Activism) from FoundSF.
4. 'Col. J.B. Crockett and G.W.P. Bissell'- These individuals are likely important figures in the history of San Francisco. An in-depth exploration of the history and prominent figures of the city can be read in [San Francisco: A History](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/99787.San_Francisco) by John Avalos Deasy.
5. 'The Solano Hotel'- This site might have historical significance in San Francisco. Additional information can be reviewed from the resources on San Francisco's historic places like [Historical Marker Database](https://www.hmdb.org/).
6. 'Government for the people' sentiment’ - This evokes democratic ideals and principles. Refer to the article ['What Does It Mean to Say a Political System Is "For the People"?'](https://www.thoughtco.com/what-does-of-the-people-mean-4097949) from ThoughtCo for more insights.
7. 'Modern civil rights movements'- For further reading on this topic, check out the article ['Civil Rights Movement: An Overview'](https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-movement) on History.com.
8. 'Maya Angelou quote on history' - This quote may prompt research into the works and views of Maya Angelou. For further analysis of her thoughts, visit ['Maya Angelou'](https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/maya-angelou) from the Poetry Foundation.
**Citation**: Trinity Journal
- Conference with the Governor., 1856-06-14
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
On Saturday availing a number of our most respectable citizens went on their own responsibility to Benecia, for the purpose of having a conference with Gov. Johnson, in relation to the existing state of affairs in San Francisco. A number of the Committee has kindly furnished us with the result of the conference. The following is the letter sent to the Governor: Benicia, June 7, 1856. To His Excellency J. Neely Johnson, Governor of California: SIR—The undersigned citizens of San Francisco, on their own behalf, and on behalf of a large portion of the people of that city, respecttully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs. (Signed) J. B. CROCKETT, E. W. EARL, F. W. MACONDRAY, JAS. V. THORNTON, H. S. FOOTE, JAMES DONAHUE, M. R. ROBERTS, JOHN J. WILLIAMS, JOHN SIME, BALIE PEYTON, G. W. P. BISSELL. THE CONFERENCE. When the Committee reached the door of the Solano Hotel, Col. Crockett inquired for Gov. Johnson –– Judge Terry replied that any communication for the Governor must be addressed to him in writing. This remark was repeated by Volney Howard, Esq. A room was then procured and a note written by Col. Crockett on the part of the Committee, soliciting an interview.— Mr. Bissell, Mr. Thornton and Mr. Earl were requested to deliver it to the Governor, on reading which the Governor replied that he would be happy to recieve the Committee. Col. Crockett, as Chairman of the Committee, was requested to state to Gov. Johnson the object of our interview—this was done in a calm, sensible and dispassionate manner. He stated that we came there at the request of a number of the citizens of San Francisco, belonging to no party, but actuated solely by a desire to avoid the serious calamity impending over the city and State. He stated in emphatic terms that the Committee, of which he was chairman, had no connection with the Vigilance Committee, or its movements; declared he was not authorized to speak specially for the Committee, but felt authorised to assure the Governor no danger existed of any further action on the part of the Committee which would be calculated to bring them into collision with the civil authorities, and gave special assurance that they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus which might be addressed to them and that they would desist in future from any exhibition of arms on the street, or in public places, and subjoining that resolutions to thst effect have been adopted by the Comimttee, and which were in his possession — Col. Crockctt further stated that he, and the gentlemen associated with him at present as a committee, had that day visited the rooms ol the Committee of Vigilance for the purpose of urging on them the adoption of a plan ol pacification and settlement of quite a comprehensive and satisfactory character but which they had not had time to consider prior to our leaving the city. He concluded by urging in the most earnest manner that the Governor should not precipitate the
The period saw the region of California in a particularly challenging socio-political situation, sparked by the Gold Rush of 1848 which massively increased the population of San Francisco from 1,000 to around 25,000 in just a year. This rapid influx of fortune seekers resulted in a period of disorder and lawlessness. Out of this chaos, vigilante committees, like the one mentioned in the article, arose with the intention of maintaining order and justice within the city. However, they often lacked proper legal jurisdiction and process, leading to tensions with state officials.
The committee sought a meeting with the Governor, as evidenced by the quote: "The undersigned citizens of San Francisco, on their own behalf, and on behalf of a large portion of the people of that city, respectfully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs." Here, the self-appointed representatives of the city requested a meeting to discuss the crisis, showing their self-perceived authority and willingness to address the difficult state of affairs.
It is important to note the committee's attempt at distancing themselves from unlawfulness and their intent to respect the civil authorities, as suggested in the quote: "He stated in emphatic terms that the Committee, of which he was chairman, had no connection with the Vigilance Committee, or its movements... that they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus." It outlines the committee's promise of obedience to the law and commitment to peace, indicating that the violation of civil authority was not their intent, despite their vigilante status.
Interestingly, the document seems to include the committee's suggestion of a plan for pacification and settlement: "He concluded by urging in the most earnest manner that the Governor should not precipitate the…", although the text cuts off at this point. This indicates the effort by the committee to be proactive in crafting solutions and provides evidence of the active political participation of citizens during this challenging time.
In conclusion, this document provides a fascinating view into a lesser-known side of the Gold Rush period, revealing the challenges faced by authorities and citizens alike, as they navigated the push and pull between maintaining order and respecting the bounds of law.
Narrative Exposition:
In the year 1856, the streets of San Francisco, then a sprouting city, hummed with contentious debates and heated disputes. Leading societal figures and the Governor of California himself came together for a conference of historical significance. Stepping from the shadowed alleys of the past into the sunlit roads of the 21st century, one could claim that the echoes of this monumental meeting still resonate in San Francisco's contemporary societal ethos.Embark with us on an exploration of the events that unfolded on a seemingly unsuspecting Saturday in June, when notable citizens rallied together to address their concerns with Governor J. Neely Johnson. Their purpose? Tackling the 'alarming crisis' that was encroaching upon their cherished city.
"…respectfully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs."
Birthed from a sense of concern and civic duty, these words, embedded in the letter addressed to the Governor, highlight the spirit of civic heroes ready to shoulder their city's plight. Discerning readers can easily detect a semblance of desperation subtly woven into their plea, a striking depiction of the seriousness of their situation.
Often characterized by instances of civil agitations and resolute quests for justice, San Francisco's historical fabric has an unique thread running through it. This occurrence of negotiation with the Governor magnifies the essence of San Francisco – an undaunted spirit to battle for its identity, a virtue that continues to reverberate in its present discourse.
Trailing their journey to Benecia, unaffiliated to any political group and guided solely by their ambition to avert the impending doom threatening their hometown, we meet a spectrum of esteemed societal contributors—from Col. J.B. Crockett to G.W.P. Bissell. Their collective efforts tell a tale of communal responsibility that continues to echo in the present sphere of activism and community participation in shaping policies.
The historical face-off at the Solano Hotel, offers a vital highlight — Col. Crockett's earnest plea to the governor for peace and alignment with civil authorities. His discourse centered on moving away from gratuitous displays of weaponry and avoiding conflicts.
"... they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus which might be addressed to them and that they would desist in future from any exhibition of arms on the street, or in public places..."
This declaration conveys an essential ideology from the era – one that underscored the importance of legal obedience in maintaining societal order during the most tumultuous times. Their commitment, evident in their acknowledgment of the rule of law, draws parallels to the approach followed by modern civil rights movements, which often underscore lawful action as a tool for societal reform.
The governor’s readiness to open a dialogue and address their grievances also sets the stage for the ever-embraced "Government for the people" sentiment. It shines a light on the democratic principles that would gradually cement Californian, and indeed American, governance.
While this story unravels San Francisco's past, it simultaneously offers a glimpse into its present. The enduring quest for social justice through adherence to the rule of law, amplified by the civic commitment of the city's citizens, remains an integral part of its character.
Diving into these historical narratives unfolds valuable insights into our societal evolution and cultural progression. They teach us timeless lessons of unity, audacity, responsibility, and respect for the law. Essentially, through the lens of the past, we are offered a clearer understanding of our shared lineage. The events that transpired on that pivotal Saturday in 1856 continue to ripple through time, certainly shaping our perception of community, decorum, and the art of negotiating peace.
As renowned poet, Maya Angelou rightly said, "History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again."
Key Phrases:
1. 'Conference of historical significance in San Francisco in 1856' - This is likely an important event in the history of San Francisco. For more information on this period and city, see [History of San Francisco](https://www.nps.gov/prsf/learn/historyculture/index.htm) from the National Park Service.2. 'Governor J. Neely Johnson' - This person is a historical figure from California's history. For further reading into his governance and political career, refer to [J. Neely Johnson's biographical profile](https://governors.library.ca.gov/04-Johnson.html) from the California Governor's Library.
3. 'Civic heroes and activism in San Francisco' - This phrase discusses the tradition of active civic participation and social justice in the city. More about this topic can be found through the article [San Francisco History: Activism](http://www.foundsf.org/index.php?title=Category:Activism) from FoundSF.
4. 'Col. J.B. Crockett and G.W.P. Bissell'- These individuals are likely important figures in the history of San Francisco. An in-depth exploration of the history and prominent figures of the city can be read in [San Francisco: A History](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/99787.San_Francisco) by John Avalos Deasy.
5. 'The Solano Hotel'- This site might have historical significance in San Francisco. Additional information can be reviewed from the resources on San Francisco's historic places like [Historical Marker Database](https://www.hmdb.org/).
6. 'Government for the people' sentiment’ - This evokes democratic ideals and principles. Refer to the article ['What Does It Mean to Say a Political System Is "For the People"?'](https://www.thoughtco.com/what-does-of-the-people-mean-4097949) from ThoughtCo for more insights.
7. 'Modern civil rights movements'- For further reading on this topic, check out the article ['Civil Rights Movement: An Overview'](https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/civil-rights-movement) on History.com.
8. 'Maya Angelou quote on history' - This quote may prompt research into the works and views of Maya Angelou. For further analysis of her thoughts, visit ['Maya Angelou'](https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/maya-angelou) from the Poetry Foundation.
**Citation**: Trinity Journal
- Conference with the Governor., 1856-06-14
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive
Original Article:
On Saturday availing a number of our most respectable citizens went on their own responsibility to Benecia, for the purpose of having a conference with Gov. Johnson, in relation to the existing state of affairs in San Francisco. A number of the Committee has kindly furnished us with the result of the conference. The following is the letter sent to the Governor: Benicia, June 7, 1856. To His Excellency J. Neely Johnson, Governor of California: SIR—The undersigned citizens of San Francisco, on their own behalf, and on behalf of a large portion of the people of that city, respecttully ask a personal interview with your Excellency, touching the present alarming crisis in its affairs. (Signed) J. B. CROCKETT, E. W. EARL, F. W. MACONDRAY, JAS. V. THORNTON, H. S. FOOTE, JAMES DONAHUE, M. R. ROBERTS, JOHN J. WILLIAMS, JOHN SIME, BALIE PEYTON, G. W. P. BISSELL. THE CONFERENCE. When the Committee reached the door of the Solano Hotel, Col. Crockett inquired for Gov. Johnson –– Judge Terry replied that any communication for the Governor must be addressed to him in writing. This remark was repeated by Volney Howard, Esq. A room was then procured and a note written by Col. Crockett on the part of the Committee, soliciting an interview.— Mr. Bissell, Mr. Thornton and Mr. Earl were requested to deliver it to the Governor, on reading which the Governor replied that he would be happy to recieve the Committee. Col. Crockett, as Chairman of the Committee, was requested to state to Gov. Johnson the object of our interview—this was done in a calm, sensible and dispassionate manner. He stated that we came there at the request of a number of the citizens of San Francisco, belonging to no party, but actuated solely by a desire to avoid the serious calamity impending over the city and State. He stated in emphatic terms that the Committee, of which he was chairman, had no connection with the Vigilance Committee, or its movements; declared he was not authorized to speak specially for the Committee, but felt authorised to assure the Governor no danger existed of any further action on the part of the Committee which would be calculated to bring them into collision with the civil authorities, and gave special assurance that they would hereafter yield obedience to all writs of Habeas Corpus which might be addressed to them and that they would desist in future from any exhibition of arms on the street, or in public places, and subjoining that resolutions to thst effect have been adopted by the Comimttee, and which were in his possession — Col. Crockctt further stated that he, and the gentlemen associated with him at present as a committee, had that day visited the rooms ol the Committee of Vigilance for the purpose of urging on them the adoption of a plan ol pacification and settlement of quite a comprehensive and satisfactory character but which they had not had time to consider prior to our leaving the city. He concluded by urging in the most earnest manner that the Governor should not precipitate the
