John Wilson to Richard Yates

Chicago, July 1st 1863

Governor,

A number of true and loyal union men, have formed an organization, under the name of the "Strong Band", the chief object of which is to sustain the Government in putting down the present infamous rebellion. This organization has extended its ramifications through, or into, most of the loyal states, and already numbers many thousand officers and privates in this, and other states; and is strictly military in its character. It has conferred on me the position of Commander in Chief; and my great object is to render it actively efficient in the present aspect of the affairs of our country. To this end it is proposed to endeavor to raise a body of volunteers in this and the adjoining States, to aid in driving the rebels from Pennsylvania and Maryland, whose term of service shall continue only so long as may be necessary for this purpose; and to offer the services of the troops thus raised, to the President for such period, provided we can have your permission to do so, - so far as this State is concerned - which is now respectfully requested.

With great respect Your Obt Servt

John Wilson Commr in Chief of the Strong Band

Address Box 3858

Ansd Aug 18 63 File W

Willson John

Chicago July 1st 1863.

Is commander in chief of the "Strong Band" whose chief object is to sustain the Government - wishes to organize to aid in driving the rebels from Pennsylvania and continue so long as it may be necesary - wish the Governers permission to do so.

Recd Ex O July 6 1863

Write Hon John M. Wilson of Chicago that this letter got mislaid and therefore was not answered in time which I regret That his offer is truly a patriotic one - and that I would have been most happy to have recommended his plan to the President - and that I hope in the future I may be able to answer more promptly - that I stand ready to aid him as far as my humble influence may go in any enterprize he may have in view