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Late May 1861. Texas joined the Confederate
States of America on March 5, 1861 after an overwhelming public vote to secede from the United States. The Civil War has begun
with the firing by Confederate artillery on Fort Sumter in the harbor of Charleston, South Carolina. The fort was surrendered
to Confederate forces on April 13, 1861.
Throughout the months following, Texas men made ready for war. Existing militias
were called into service, new units were organized and soon the men were heading east toward the fighting. Texas women did
their part making and presenting unit flags, organizing fairs to raise money for the troops and sewing uniforms and other
necessary items needed by their men.
Henkel Square is no different. The militia is going to war and the Henkel
Square residents are sending them off with great fanfare. During the day on Saturday, the unit will be presented with a flag.
Saturday evening will be a grand banquet in honor of the men who gallantly go forth to battle. Sunday, after church, the residents
will see the brave boys off.
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