Buchanan County bulletin and guardian. (Independence, Iowa) 1866-1869, 1867-03-19
TINE GOvERNORsniP.

Aher thorough discussion, the press Of
Northern Iowa have generally settled upon
the idea that united effort will secure the
governorship. 1t is noteworthy that the only
military name brought Prominently forward
in connection with this position is that Of
Col Samuel Merrill, Of Clayton County. 90
far as We know, the papers Of Northern
Iowa hearty endorse him, while those Of
Southern Iowa accord to him fitness, by
reason of character and serviccs for the posi-.
ton, while At the same time they hesitating-
" acknowledge the propriety Of taking the
candidate from the Northern half the State.
Thus, the finger Of drstiny seems 70 point
to Col. Merrill rs the coming man. We
have not deemed il best to advocate his
claims before becoming thoroughly con>
vinced Of his fitness 70 represent the great
Republican party Of the State; but having
consulted those Who have been thoroughly
intimate with him. both in civil and military
life, we are satisfied that no name more suita-
bic than that of Col. Samuel Merrill could
be brought before the people for the position
Of Governor.
Samuel Merrill was Colonel Of the 2lst
Iowa Infantry, which distinguished itself
wherever engaged with the enemy. The
efficiency and undaunted bravery Of both
colonel and regiment were eminetly con-
epicuous at the battles of Huntsville, Port
Gibson, Big Black River Bridge, and many
minor engagements. AT Big Black River
Bridge, Col. Merrill Was almost morsally
wounded. Although not 90 distinguished
in military tactics Is many other Iowa off,
GERS, yet his strong good sense and persona!
bravery made him efficient as commander
and gave him q place among the most
worthy. His temperate habits and integrity
Of character were in marked contrast with
too many even of Iowa officers. The mill
tnry service affords the severcst possible test
of character. We could not Therefore, give
evidence more positive Of the true worth Of
Col. Merrill's character than by stating that
while in the army he maintained the same
high toned morality which had previously
characterized hin, as citizen.
The qualifications of Colonel Merrill are
not Of that brilliant character which would
make him conspicuous as an orator or writer;
bu, rather of tia, practical western type,
which markes him as eminently man Of the
people, and peculiarly fits him for the eff
Glen, discharge Of the duties ofthe Executive
ofthe State. He would probably make
poorer politician than Gov. Stone. but
much better Governor, and j; is Governor
We are afser. We believe Col. Merrill is .
consistent member Of christian church /; but
whether this be the case or moi, his honesty. |
Temperance and gentlemanly bearing in his
intercourse with others have never been |
questioned. As Governor he would do credit
70 the party which should elect him and 70
that democratic principle which elevases the
truly meritor;ous rather than the merely noto-
rious.
In view Of these facts, and in the belief
that the party strength Of Northern Iowa
and probably other portions-can be united |
spon him in convention, We favor the nomi- |
nation of Colonel Samuel Merrill - the next
Republican caslidase for Governor.