New State Meeting in District No. 1, Ohio County.
March 4, 1863
At a meeting held at the Oldham school house, to take into consideration the proposed amendment to the Constitution of West Virginia, Mr. John E. Sisson was called to the chair, T. B. Stewart elected Secretary and Ed. C. McCauslin and A. H. Kimmons Vice-President.
Rev. W. J. Alexander, Samuel Buchanan and J. R. Patterson were appointed a Committee on Resolutions.
The object of the meeting was stated by Rev. W. J. Alexander.
The Rev. Moses Technael was then introduced to the audience, and delivered a most telling address of some two hours in length.
At the conclusion of the address, the committee reported the following resolutions, which were unanimously adopted:
1st. Resolved, That the New State movement meets with our cordial approbation, and we will give it our support.
2d. As nature has indicated that West Virginia will be free from slavery, or involuntary servitude, we hail with delight the prospect of a free State.
3d. That we cordially approve of the patriotic conduct of our fellow citizens who lent their aid in changing the 7th section of the 12th article of our Constitution, so as to incorporate gradual emancipation, thereby making it more acceptable to Congress and our people.
4th. That as the high prize of our long cherished hope, a New State, is so nearly accomplished, we will cease not to labor for it until the work is done.
On motion, it was resolved that the minutes of the meeting be signed by the President and Secretary, and sent to the Intelligencer office for publication.
On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered to the Rev. Mr. Tichnael for his able and eloquent address.
On motion, adjourned.
J. E. Sisson, President.
T. B. Stewart, Secretary.
Timeline of West Virginia: Civil War and Statehood: Undated: March 1863