Southport telegraph. [volume] (Southport, W.T. [i.e. Kenosha, Wis.]) 1840-1850, 1841-11-16
1t appears then, that for the sum Of 3d.

1t appears then, that for the sum Of 30
625, per annum, there are those who are
willing Wisconsin should remain in con-
dition of Territorial dependence.--But let
us examine whether we would not gain
more than an equivalent for this sum. by
becoming an independent STATED By the
Distribution law which has now become the
law Of the land, the new States are 10 re-
ceive ten per cent. on the amount of sales,
which shall be made within their respective
limits. How long the distribution principle
will continue TO be the policy Of govern
ment is uncertain; but il may at least be re-
garded as settled policy during the present
administration. Assuming then as the ba-
sis of our calculation, the nett proceeds ri
sing from the sale Of public lands in this
Territory will be $500, 900 perannum; this
would give us 5000 per annum for our
share Of the proceeds under the distribution
act This leaves balance in our favor of
$50, 1915 over the amount which we receive
from the general government as a Terri
tory. Therefore, from this consideration
alone, we should be gainers in pecuniary
point Of view by becoming State.
But we have other interests which it is
important should be secured immediatey.--
By the provisions Of an act Of Cong ess,
WiScopS, ;C apt;,Iod % EO0 ono 900. . r
land. 17l,O0O acres have been appropria-
ted by Congress TO the constructive Of the
Michigan and Rock River Canal, leaving
800, 900 acres yet to be located. Every
years delay in the location Of these lands,
is loss to the people Of this Territory.--
1t is safe to calculate that were it in the
power of Wisconsin to select these lands
now, they might be so located that their in
crease in value, would be at least fifty cents
per acre per annum. But to satisfy those
who may deem the foregoing estimate too
eXtravagant, we will put the increase in
value at only twenty-five cents per acre.
NO "ouiu PlOuuCC Ill UuUudl saving OF
$50, $50. Not to go into an estimate of
other advantages, which would accrue TO US,
were we to become State the result, will
stand as follows: 80
Ten per cent from the proceeds Of the public
:, lands IN the Territory, $50, 900
Estimated increase in value per amman on
$4,000 acres, 81, $50
Total, Sl32 $50
Amount appropriated by the general govern
ment for Territorial exp nses, 500 ,G25
balance in favor of State government, $IO2, 625
1t is true thatthe amount as above stated
which was appropriated by the general 60
vernment for terrific rial expenses the last
year, does not include the United States ju-
rors. We have not the information at
hand by which to arrive at the precise
amount Of this item. Still it is believed
that other considerations on the side of our
becoming state, would fully justify this
expenditure. Greater economy would
doubtless be had in the various depart
ments of the Government, under a state
government than under territorial.
We throw out the foregoing remarks for
the purpose of eliciting enquiry upon this
subject. If the agitation Of this question at
this time should be deemed premature bv
any. some valid reason should be show
Tor arriving at such conclusion.