The Bellville Countryman
Texas
June 12, 1861
In Mississippi, and some other of the Confederate States, and even in some parts of Texas, the ladies are banding together for the purpose of drilling and practising the use of firearms, resolving, if necessary, to send the men off to fight, while they stay at home to protect their firesides from the incursions of hostile Indians or Abolitionists. At one or two places in Mississippi they have perfected themselves in the drill and manual of arms of the soldier, and declare their intention also to attend to the crops, while the males are away. This is PURE patriotism, and their action cannot be too highly lauded. We do not imagine the fair sex of our section behind any in their love of country, and should like to see such a movement set on foot. Who will put the ball in motion? Instances were common in our early history of the daring deeds performed by women, the heroic mothers of liberty. Though there may be no necessity the experiment can do no harm.