George L. Steames to John A. Spooner

Continental Hotel Philada June 1863

John A. Spooner Esq Sherman House Chicago Ill.

Sir I have been appointed by the Hon Secretary of War Commissioner for recruiting colored regiments, and shall for the present continue my Western organization, but I wish as soon as possible to recruit Colored regiments in all the Free States rather than send more men to Massachusetts. I wish committees of citizens of such states formed for that purpose wherever there is interest enough taken in this object to raise one or more regiments or even one Company of men. In Philadelphia a Committee of men numbering more than two hundred wealthy and influential citizens has been formed. They propose to raise the needed funds for recruiting expenses and proceed at once to fill up one or more regiments. It is

desirable that this example should be followed everywhere in all the free states These regiments will be filled in all cases up to the minimum of six hundred and forty men completely officered and thoroughly drilled. On arriving at their destination in the South they will be filled up to the maximum number of nine hundred and eighty men The plan of work will be this the regiment to be recruited in the same manner as we have heretofore obtained men for the Massachusetts regiments by agents appointed and as far as possible assisted by the Committee So soon as the recruits arrive at the regimental Depot then the Government will assume the charge of them The officers will be appointed by the War Department If a Committee can be formed in [blank] who will collect or otherwise obtain funds to the amount of six thousand four hundred dollars ($6400) I will authorize them to recruit a regiment for Illinois to be placed to the credit of the quota from

that state thus relieving so many other citizens from conscription. If they cannot raise the above amount, but will raise funds for one or more Companies I will give them authority accordingly

I have the honor to be Very Respectfully Yours [illegible]

Major and A. A. G v U.S.V. Recruiting Com'r U.S Col'd Vols

Steams George L

Phila'da June 1863.

Circular in regard to organizing Colored Regiments --