Semi-Weekly Dispatch

Reports the reorganization of the Congressional districts of Pennsylvania and indicates the new districts.

Condemns the Valley Spirit for "turning up his beautiful, aristocratic proboscis" at what the Spirit refers to as "small politicians." The Dispatch expresses the opinion that the Spirit is referring to workingmen rather than professional men and compares the Spirit's attitude to that of aristocratic Southerners who refer to workingmen as "greasy mechanics" and "mudsills."

Chronicles the hardship--or measure of "justice"--that each state that seceded has suffered at the hands of federal troops.

Endorses the President's plan for voluntary emancipation in each state that so desires it. Points out that in the war, the slaves at the South have received an opportunity to achieve their freedom but declined to take advantage of that opportunity. Thus, they proved wrong the Northerners who have advocated an end to slavery in order to quell the rebellion.

Relates that Fort Pulaski was surrendered to Union forces on April 15.

Estimates the number of Northern soldiers killed at Pittsburg Landing at 3,500 to 4,000. Presents further details on the battle.

Prints President Lincoln's message concerning the abolition of slavery by order of Congress in the District of Columbia.

Reports that the Town Council have workmen who are putting down "the most substantial crossings" at East Market and Second Streets.

Reports that Dr. J. Maurer, who was appointed Assistant Surgeon in the army, has been ordered to report to Harrisburg prior to receiving his assignment.

Warns readers that counterfeit bank notes have been passed, including two dollar bills from the Columbia bank and the Mauch Chunk bank and one dollar bills from the Farmer's Bank of Reading.

Reports that a number of buildings are to be erected in Chambersburg during the spring and summer.

Announces that the Chambersburg Brass Band will perform a promenade concert at Franklin Hall on Thursday, May 1.

Relates that Mr. William Robertson, formerly of Hagerstown, had three sons in the late battle at Winchester. Two of the sons fought for the Union, while one fought on the "rebel" side. It is reported that the Confederate, whose name was also William, was killed.

Reports that Colonel Stumbaugh's 77th Regiment was among the reinforcements that arrived at Pittsburg Landing with General Buell, but they were too late to participate in the battle. General Buell's bodyguard, composed of Pennsylvanians, did participate in the battle. The members of this corps who are from Chambersburg are Messrs. Bruce Lambert, son of Dr. John Lambert; Allison McDowell, son of John McDowell; Richard Reynolds, son of Dr. F. S. Reynolds; William Peiffer, son of Philip Peiffer, deceased; and G. W. Wallace, son of the late Robert Wallace of Greenvillage.

Mr. William Weston, aged 61 years, died on April 9 in Guilford township.

Mrs. Mary Goodwin, 78 years of age, died in Antrim township at the residence of her son-in-law, J. G. Scheible, Esq., on March 31.

Mr. John Forsyth, 56 years of age, died in Metal township on March 31.

Daniel Brewer Wolff, aged two years, died in Chambersburg on April 13. He was the son of Adam and Victoria O. Wolff.

Announces the upcoming meeting of the Franklin County Teacher's Institute, which will be held in Strasburg, beginning on May 7 at 2 o'clock in the afternoon and continuing for three days.

Relates various written statements by George Washington concerning his desire for the abolition of slavery.