Shelby County Trail Military

... In 1864, rumors were flying thick that anyone who attempted to take the enrollment for a draft would be shot. There were men who boasted openly they would do the murderous deed. ..."The Knights of the Golden Circle" were drilling in sight of my home on the prairie, to resist the "tyrant Lincoln" as they called him. I would talk and reason with some of my neighbors, but many were glum and mum, and would give me no chance to talk with them. Under these circumstances I was pointed to take the enrollment in the eastern half of the county. On receiving my commission I was offered a company, or regiment of soldiers, to be stationed in the county, but I objected to their presence, because I knew that in the counties where soldiers were present there had been riot and bloodshed. I was advised to start well armed, but I declined to do this. I determined to do the work peaceably, or die in the attempt. However, I took the precaution to change my had and coat and to ride a different horse, from day to day, as I went about the work.
... Years afterwards some persons confessed to me that they, with others, had resolved on shooting me if I were seen near their homes.