Circa 2002, by Suzanne Miller. 141 pages.
From the Introduction: In studying my ancestry, I happened upon the Pontoosuc Independent Military Company of which my great-great-grandfather, Samual Babcook, and his brothers-in-law, James D., Albert Franklin, John, and Samual Logan, Jr. were members. This little group formed in the 1840’s to protect the Durham and Pontoosuc Township, Hancock County, Illinois settlers against thievery and other crimes. They had a big role in helping drive the Mormon people from Nauvoo, Illinois, and at times were criticized for their actions. Some of my ancestor’s statements, and a few others from the articles of the old Dallas City, Illinois newspapers give reasons for their participation in taking part in expelling the Mormons. The old settlers were interviewed by Foster Walker (nephew of Joseph, John, and Perry Agnew) in 1902.
James D. Logan told Mr. Walker he could tell the world, and in 1902 he printed it in “The Review” newspaper of Dallas City, Illinois And as I collected Captain Logan’s story, I decided to share it with others Included are facts about many of the members of the Pontoosuc Company and information about their families.
Were these early settlers “demons” — also known as “Bloody Pontoosucans,” “the mob,” and “raiders” by the Mormons? Or were they simply protecting their property they had fought so hard to attain?
Shelf G-2
All Rights Reserved