Wardlaw, D.L. Copy of Committee resolution authorizing Gov. to declare martial law
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02271 Author/Creator: Wardlaw, D.L. Place Written: Charleston Type: Manuscript document Date: 1860/12/27 Pagination: 1 p. + docket 27 x 16 cm Order a Copy
Clerical copy written in the hand of B.F. Arthur, signed for Winslow (as chair of the Secession Convention).
Dec. 1860
The Committee on the Constitution to whom was referred a resolution concerning martial law report that they have considered the cause, and beg leave to recommend for the adoption of the convention the following resolution.
Resolved that whenever in the cause of the struggle [inserted: into which] [struck: that] the state [inserted: now] seems [struck: illegible] likely to be thrown [struck: into] hostilities may [inserted: be] waged or threatened against the city of Charleston on its neighborhood [sic] . . . and the Governor (upon consultation with the Executive Council) may decree the measure necessary. the Governor is hereby authorized [struck: and informed] to declare and enforce martial law, in whole or in part, in and over Charleston, its harbor, and neighboring villages, all adjacent islands, including Morris Island; and all other place within five miles of the Court House:- to remove thence all persons whose presence he shall be considered detrimental to the public service - to prevent the ingress of such persons; to regulate at discretion all travel to and forth: and otherwise to govern as in a camp.
Provided that such [illegible] ultimately shall be at all times subject to be limited, controlled or resolved by this Convention or by the General Assembly.-
(signed)D.L. Wardlaw
Chairman
[docket]
Report of the
Committee on
the Constitutions
upon a resolution
concerning martial
law
Adopted
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