Semi-Weekly Dispatch
(Franklin, PA)
April 19, 1861
As our readers are aware, the Militia Laws of Pennsylvania have ever been very defective. Heretofore no emergency has arisen, which has not been promptly and effectively met, but in the present uncertain aspect of affairs, it become our rulers to look well to our guards, and render efficient every means for the public defence. With such views, Gov. Curtin has issued a message, from which we extract as follows:–
I recommend, therefore, that the Legislature make immediate provision for the removal of these capital defects; that arms be procured and distributed to those of our citizens who may enter into the military service of the State, and that steps be taken to change the guns already distributed, by the adoption of such well known and tried improvements as will render them effective in the event of their employment in actual service.
In this connection, I recommend the establishment of a Military Bureau at the Capitol, and that the militia laws of the Commonwealth be so modified and amended as to impart to the military organization of the State the vitality and energy essential to its practical value and usefulness.