1860: John M. Stephen, Joseph Salmon, and W.W. McNeil (involved with the Choctaw Tom Massacre) were among those in Stephenville who drew up the following resolution: “Resolved, That we are unalterably opposed to remaining in the Union with the Black Republican Party in power, and that we pledge our lives, our fortunes, and sacred honor to sustain Texas and any other state that declare their determination not to submit to the degradation, or union consequent upon Black Republican rule.”

State Gazette (Austin newspaper)