Resolutions from the Fourth West Virginia Cavalry.
November 9, 1863
Camp Snider, Near Clarksburg, W.V.,
November 4th, 1863.
The field and commissioned officers of the Fourth West Virginia Cavalry met this evening at Regimental Headquarters and called Lieut. Col. s. W. Snider to the chair. Capt. J. L. Simpson was appointed secretary.
After a brief explanation of the purpose of the meeting, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted:
WHEREAS, Col. John C. Paxton did some four months since, receive from his Excellency Gov. Boreman a commission to raise a regiment of cavalry in West Virginia; and whereas, over many impediment, the Fourth West Virginia Cavalry Regiment has been brought well nigh to competition; and whereas, the Colonel did yesterday, to the entire regiment, announce that the War Department had refused to muster him as Colonel or to restore him as an officer of the U. S. army; therefore,
Resolved, That we, the officers of the Fourth West Virginia Cavalry, do hereby express our regret that Col. Paxton's appointment to the Colonelcy of our regiment cannot be made.
Resolved, That we hereby express our high appreciation of the military ability and sterling patriotism of Col. John C. Paxton.
Resolved, That with especial admiration will we hold in memory the elevated, dignified and patriotic sentiments, so nobly expressed by Col. Paxton in his address of yesterday. How carefully did he avoid reflecting upon the Government authorities; how reserved his reference to his hidden enemy; how praiseworthy his earnest persuasion that no officer or soldier become disaffected toward the cause of the Government; how truly excellent and noble his seasoning to induce subordination on the part of all officers and men.
Resolved, That Col. Paxton shall dwell in our favor and memory; and we will ever stand ready to partake in any suggestion by which honorable amends may be made him.
Resolved, That copies of the above preamble and resolutions be forwarded for publication to the editors of the Marietta, Wheeling and Cincinnati papers, add that Col. Paxton also be furnished with a copy.
On motion the meeting adjourned.
S. W. Snider, Lieut. Col. Chairman.
J. S. Simpson, Capt, Secretary.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: November 1863