7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
1/77
Frontier Rebellion:
The Tale of David Bradford
By Stephen Kass
Chapter One
In 1781, the same year Cornwallis surrendered his army to General Washington at
Yorktown, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania took steps to abolish slavery within its
borders. As a result, the Mason-Dixon line was extended to the Ohio River. Although
this line would eventually represent the border between southern slave states and northern
free states, in 1781 it was drawn up to settle the border between Virginia and
Pennsylvania. This became especially important to the residents of what at that moment
became Washington County, the first county ever to bear the name of the great general,
almost a decade before he became president.
Along with a new name came a new sense of community as both the surrounding
county and the small city at its center, also named Washington, suddenly had an identity
all their own. They were now separated from the much larger Westmoreland County, and
they were proud to be named for the man who, in defeating the British, made possible
their independence, which they valued greatly.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
2/77
2
But what these frontier people valued even more was finally having a home of
their own, no longer under question or dispute from the many people and governing
bodies that had claimed ownership over the years. The people of Washington were
Pennsylvanians, finally, and for the first time they felt that maybe they were no longer on
their own in the wild frontier.
* * *
Not to worry, David. We shall have you a permanent place on the Bar soon
enough, John McDowell, a portly man in his mid-fifties with wispy brown mutton
chops, said before stoking the embers in his fireplace and returning to his upholstered
chair.
Weve been anticipating the chance to see you take to the courtroom, young
man, added James Allison, a slightly younger, and considerably thinner, man.
David Bradford reclined in his chair and took a sip of brandy, considering his next
move. He knew these men were his key to success in Washington County, and he
wouldnt have left Maryland for the frontier without such promising political
connections. The parlor where the three men were sitting was ornately decorated, with a
rug spread across the solid oak floor, elegant furniture, and several paintings. Mr.
McDowell had obviously spared no expense on a room for entertaining guests and such
extravagances clearly marked him as a member of Washingtons social elite.
Both he and Mr. Allison were prominent lawyers in addition to being elder
members of Rev. John McMillans Chartiers Church and trustees for the soon to be
established Canonsburg and Washington Academies. They were something of a political
team, and their latest project was David.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
3/77
3
I expect to impress you both, although I fear my sisters may have already placed
me too highly in your minds, David responded after a moment.
Nonsense, Mr. Allison scoffed, we rarely heed the opinions of our wives.
McDowell erupted with laughter at the comment and David forced a smile. He
thought of how much effort it took to monitor his every word and action around these
men before allowing his thoughts to drift to his own wife, Elizabeth, for just a moment.
He wondered how she was getting along with the children and realized it was getting late.
In all honesty, David, Im not thoroughly convinced you are yet able to fathom
what youve sunken your teeth into here in Washington, McDowell said finally.
Dear lord, came Allison chiming in, the list of grievances these peasants are
able to imagine makes one wonder how such simpletons can have so much on their
minds.
First they come to you about the current state of the land, McDowell took over,
and who claims ownership of what. But then they complain about ridiculous matters
like the weather, as if you were in a position to commune with God himself and could fix
such a thing. So concerned about their harvests all the time, and wanting you to do
something about it.
And then it will be on to Indian attacks, Allison scoffed, of which we have had
none in over five years.
Finally, said McDowell, comes the incessant ranting about being summoned to
federal court in Philadelphia.
Actually, John, remarked Allison, I firmly agree with their position when it
comes to that matter.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
4/77
4
I fully do as well, replied McDowell. But who do they think has to make the
journey more frequently? They or us? We are the lawyers, after all.
Allison and McDowell had made one thing perfectly clear to David, and it had
nothing to do with the poor farmers they were trying to warn him about. He realized
instead that the only one way to command respect from these men was through forceful
conviction and confidence. They hated nothing more than sniveling complaints and
testaments of inability.
Not to worry, gentlemen, he said after finishing his brandy. There is nothing
with which this place, or its people, could hope to challenge me. I can now see that my
merits have not properly been expressed to you. I am not thoroughly convinced either of
you is yet able to fathom my capabilities.
After a long pause, David worried that he had just ruined any chance he had of
getting on good terms with these men. But then John spoke and David knew he had been
right to feign arrogance with them.
Well, hes certainly got fire in his belly, hasnt he James? McDowell chuckled.
Just what we need in these parts, Allison agreed. Now I really do relish the
chance to see him in action.
With that, David Bradford stood up and put on his coat.
Good evening, gentlemen, he said. I must be going now. It was a pleasure to
be in your home, Mr. McDowell.
Please, David. John will be fine from now on, McDowell insisted.
We shall see you tomorrow morning, David, at the courthouse. Theres a seat on
the Bar waiting to be etched with your name,Allison stated.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
5/77
5
With that, David left McDowells house and rode his horse back to the log cabin
where he and Elizabeth were living with their newborn son, Thomas. His wife was still
awake, but the baby was fast asleep. Elizabeth sat at their only table, her porcelain face
and ashy, blond hair dimly lit by the firelight.
How did it go? she asked.
I think I impressed them, David responded.
So then theyve agreed to place you on the Bar?
He nodded. Great things our going to happen for us, Elizabeth. Ill not have my
family huddled in this cabin for long.
* * *
The next morning, David stood outside at the Washington Court House, waiting
for his new allies. His broad shoulders nearly spanned the impressive oak doors and his
hair matched their color so well it might have been made invisible if not for the wind. He
looked almost like a sentry, strong and full of youthful energy.
McDowell and Allison arrived together, twenty minutes later. After brief
greetings, the three entered the court together and David found that he was the first order
of business on the court docket that day. As soon as the presiding judge and court
officials saw McDowell and Allison, they sprang into action and immediately appointed
David as a registered member of the Washington County Bar Association without even
giving him the examination. He was asked only one question, concerning the proper
spelling of his name, before the judge looked down at David, who was standing in the
center of court, and announced:
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
6/77
6
Let the recordshow that I, the right honorable Judge Robert Philson, do declare,
with the good and legal authority of the Court of Washington, that you, Mr. David
Bradford, shall hereby be recognized as a full member of the Washington Country Bar
Association, and shall immediately assume all proper rights and responsibilities
associated with that post, on this day April Twenty Fourth, in the One Thousand and
Seven Hundred and Eighty Second Year of Our Lord.
The words resonated in Davids ears and he felt oddly different at hearing them.
Though they were just words, he could feel they power, the status that they had just
bestowed upon him. It was like being born a new man. He had now joined the ranks of
the social elite. Hed been let into their club and he couldnt wait to take full advantage
of his membership.
David quickly got to work, taking on as many cases as he could and working at a
feverish pace. He soon became known as a legal Jack-of-all-trades for being willing to
take on any case at all. He handled everything from land title disputes, property
grievances and tax violations all the way down to simple cases of public drunkenness and
general disturbances of the peace.
And he soon became familiar with the complaints of frontier farmers. McDowell
and Allison had not been mistaken in their explanation. For the most part, people on the
frontier felt alienated from the rest of the country and didnt see how or why people they
had never seen or spoken to could have so much authority over their lives. They had
become accustomed, before the drawing of the Mason-Dixon line, to numerous absentee
landlords who claimed that the land in Washington was rightfully theirs and attempted to
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
7/77
7
impose taxes of various sorts. Most people had rejected these taxes, and as a result,
became used to living on their own without much interference from any governing body.
At the same time, they wanted to believe they were not on their own and that
somebody would protect them from Indian attacks, which they all felt were imminent.
Wildly exaggerated tales of the Battle of Wyoming and the Cherry Valley Massacre, in
which Iroquois raiders tortured American patriots, had been circulating for years and had
grown to epic proportions. Many farmers came to David asking him what the law
proposed to do about this looming Indian threat. He soon learned that the idea of Indians
frightened them just as stories of ghouls and goblins frightened their children. However,
there was nothing David could really do on the matter, but he always told people that
hed see what he could do.
In general, life for David was good. Hed lived up to his promises to McDowell
and Allison, both of whom were impressed with his work ethic, and even more amazed at
his courtroom demeanor. David Bradford had an incredible amount of charisma. They
soon learned that he could charm a judge or a jury as if through some magic spell. Both
men were pleased in their latest investment as it afforded them the ability to relax a little.
They let David handle the cases while they took credit for bringing such a successful
young lawyer to town.
The town also took a very quick liking to David. Most people regarded him as
affluent, yet friendly to commoners and, most of all, trustworthy. His youth granted him
a handsome and honest face, although something in his features or demeanor gave people
the sense that he was mature. David went out of his way to help anyone he could.
Whether it be Henry Bower who felt that his neighbors chickens were wandering too
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
8/77
8
close to his turnip patch or Dr. John Kimmel who had been summoned to federal court in
Philadelphia on matters concerning his medical practice, David did not discriminate.
Each case was as important as the next to him and the people he dealt with could tell. He
had even traveled to Philadelphia with Dr. Kimmel, and two other clients who had been
summoned, leaving his family behind in Washington for over a month on each occasion.
His dedication and personal attention to each problem afforded him a great deal of
respect, especially amongst farmers and other workers who had grown resentful of
McDowell and Allison for being too haughty to deal with their concerns. As a result, the
23-year-old David Bradford was quickly promoted to the position of Deputy Attorney
General for Washington County in early 1783.
David grew accustomed to life on the frontier. He enjoyed the sense of liberation
that living away from major cities and more established bureaucracies afforded. In
Washington it seemed that people mostly did as they pleased, without concern for
authorities any higher than the local ones, and David was a part of that local authority. In
a way, he seemed to be living in his own little country, as if he were on a deserted island
and had been appointed to the tribal council. His job and status soon afforded him
considerable wealth and, as he promised, he was able to move his family out of their
humble log cabin and into a much more appropriate living quarter.
Construction of the Bradford House began in the summer of 1786. It was to be
made of stone, quarried near Washington, which immediately marked it as a lavish
mansion by frontier standards. David was conflicted about building the house. Although
he wanted to provide his family with a luxurious house and secretly he felt that the small
cabin he had been living in for four years did not suit a man of his stature, he also knew
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
9/77
9
that to advance any further amongst the politically powerful he must upgrade his living
situation. He couldnt exactly invite judges and politicians over for dinner parties at a log
cabin.
On the other hand, he worried about alienating himself from the rustic frontier
people who had come to love him so much. He knew they secretly resented the pomp
and wealth of men like McDowell and Allison and he didnt want people to think he had
betrayed them. Such concerns drove him as far as to have plans for a tunnel drawn up,
which would be accessible from the basement and extend almost half a mile to a nearby
ravine. He doubted the townspeople would ever go so far as to attack his home or try to
rob him, but he still took measures to protect himself and his family just in case.
Upon its completion in 1788, The Bradford House stood as one of the most
impressive structures in all of Washington. It was a beautiful house with a large garden
and servants quarters in the back. The interior had been decorated with only the most
impressive furnishings, and the wood for the floors and staircase was pure mahogany,
imported from Europe and shipped from Philadelphia at great expense. David and
Elizabeth now had a proper place to call their home and soon made use of it, inviting
McDowell and Allison, Davids sisters Agnes and Jane, and other friends over for
extravagant dinner parties that lasted late into the night.
As far as the wealthy elite were concerned, David Bradford was the toast of the
town. But to his surprise, the commoners of Washington, who comprised almost all of
the towns population, had a reaction contrary to the one he expected. David had won
them over in his early days as a lawyer through hard work and honest concern for their
problems. They respected him for treating them as equals and respected him more for
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
10/77
10
working almost as hard as they did. While many people also believed that living in such
a simple house truly made David one of them, no one was upset when he abandoned his
lowly cabin.
In their eyes, he had earned his wealth and deserved to move up in the world. He
hadnt been born into prosperity like he other members of the upper class,but had started
at the bottom and worked his way up. If anything, the building of the Bradford House
only made the farmers respect him more. Now they felt that they had an ally in the elite,
someone who understood and cared about them but also had the power to do something
about it. He was the first person they went to when they needed help.
These years would mark some of the best for David Bradford. He had risen very
high very quickly, faster than he had ever dreamed. He felt that nothing could stop him
from attaining whatever he wanted. Before long, he would be king of his little island.
But David would soon be rudely reminded of what he had so easily forgotten.
Washington was not its own little island. It was part of a newly formed nation, and there
were more powerful men working to establish control of that union.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
11/77
11
Chapter Two
On April 30th, 1789, the United States of America, still in its infancy, attained its
first national leader when George Washington was inaugurated on the steps of Federal
Hall in New York City. This was a hectic time for the new president as the nations
competing political factions tore at him from every direction. Most of the prominent
figures within the new government, many with their own opinions and agendas, were
eagerly waiting to see what would happen during Washingtons first few years in office.
Would he hold the country together and finally establish the authority of the federal
government? Or would he fail, as the Articles of Confederation had failed, and cause the
states to recoil back into their own separate entities, destroying any sense of a union or
national identity?
Washingtons first year as president was a whirlwind of meetings, speeches,
debates and social events. The furious arguments between Federalists and Anti-
Federalists still raged, even two years after the ratification of the Constitution, threatening
to tear the country apart. It seemed that Washington was needed everywhere and that his
attention must be directed to almost every concern since people now looked to him as the
preeminent leader. He was still respected as the great general who liberated the nation
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
12/77
12
from the British. Now he was expected to do something even more impressive. He was
expected to hold his new country together.
In May of 1790, just over one year after taking office, George Washington
collapsed under the pressures of his new title. Gravely ill with pneumonia, he was taken
back to his home in Mount Vernon, where he was bedridden and under nearly constant
medical supervision. Sensing the seriousness of the situation and fearing for
Washingtons life, fierce political rivals Alexander Hamilton, a staunch Federalist and the
first Secretary of the Treasury, and Thomas Jefferson, Washingtons Secretary of State
and the leader of the newly formed Democratic-Republicans, met at Mount Vernon to
attend to their ailing leader.
* * *
It was mid-afternoon when Jefferson and Hamilton stood in Washingtons guest
parlor, suffering an uncomfortable silence as they waited for the doctor who was
attending to their president to emerge from the bedroom and report on his condition.
Have you any information at all on his state? Hamilton finally broke the silence.
Youve spoken to his physician, havent you?
Not the one who attends to him at present, Jefferson responded. I spoke to the
other two who had previously attended to him.
And?
Both reported he was in the very action of death and had little to recommend as a
treatment, Jefferson reported.
Which is why a third has been summoned? Hamilton asked.
How very perceptive of you, Mr. Hamilton.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
13/77
13
Jeffersons insult did not go unnoticed. Hamilton had grown accustomed to such
jabs as the two had been heatedly arguing over almost every policy either one had tried to
enact for the past several years. There was such a deep ideological rift between them,
each holding beliefs nearly opposite to the other about what was best for their young
nation. However, neither man was quite accustomed to being in such close proximity and
such a private setting, normally doing all of their debating through various publications or
in the halls of Congress.
You resent me for delaying my arrival, Hamilton responded after a few
moments.
On the contrary, Jefferson said, taking a few steps away from Hamilton and
sitting down in an ornate chair in the corner of the room. I was rather enjoying your
absence.
You were not with him at Yorktown, Mr. Jefferson, roared Hamilton as he
strode over to Jefferson and towered over him. You know nothing of the dedication I
have for this man. If I recall properly, you managed to keep your hands entirely clean
during the struggle against the British.
It is often the practice of a small mind to overlook the importance of legislation
and diplomacy, replied Jefferson as he looked away from Hamilton as if ignoring him.
Or the practice of a coward to remain idle while his countrymen die around him
fighting off tyranny and oppression.
Now see here! shouted Jefferson as he jumped to his feet. I may not have been
a soldier, but I had great deal to do with the Revolution. I risked my life declaring our
independence and I do not recall you being present to sign that document. Furthermore,
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
14/77
14
without French assistance, the colonies would have been doomed, and I worked tirelessly
to attain such assistance. A hodgepodge collection of untrained farmers alone was
helpless against the might of the British Empire.
The American Patriots were not so helpless as you might estimate! Ill not listen
to such...
Hamilton was primed to continue, but was cut off by the sounds of Washingtons
new doctor coming down the stairs. The two men exchanged vehement looks, but
returned to a civil demeanor out of concern for the more pressing issue. The pale-faced
doctor appeared in the parlor and was startled to find the two men waiting for him.
Goodness, said the doctor. I had not expected to find President Washington
entertaining guests in such a condition.
Rest assured. He is doing no entertaining of anysort, Jefferson responded.
We are simply here to monitor his condition and help in any way we are able.
How is he? Hamilton asked.
At this the doctor remained silent and his eyes drifted to the floor. He stood still
for a moment before looking up and opening his mouth as if to speak, but then lost the
courage to say anything.
Well! Out with it, man, Hamilton roared.
I...I do not have it in me to pronounce a death sentence upon such a man, but I
fear for his life.
What can we do for him? Jefferson asked. Is there any possible remedy?
Rest...rest and the Good Lords providence.
Theres nothing more you can do for him? asked Hamilton.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
15/77
15
Ive left him something to ease his pain and aid his sleep, but there is nothing
more. God may save him, sir, but surely I cannot. Just see to it that he is not disturbed.
With that, the doctor turned and made his way to the door, leaving Jefferson and
Hamilton alone to ponder the situation. They stood in silence for a good while, absorbed
in their own thoughts, entirely forgetting their earlier feud.
The people of this nation will not react well such news, Jefferson said finally.
Their faith in the government is already on unsteady ground, Hamilton
concluded as he strode back into the center of the parlor. Too little has been done to
establish federal authority.
Are you still on about that? Jefferson scoffed as he approached Hamilton.
Youd have them replace King George with George Washington and never know the
difference. Or would you rather take the throne yourself?
Your ignorance is appalling, said Hamilton with his finger just in front of
Jeffersons face. This nation is free and men like me have seen to it, but it still must
have proper order. Without strong central government there will be chaos. If you must
know, my arrival here was delayed due to matters concerning the fiscal plans I intend to
bring before Congress this coming session.
I sincerely hope you do not still intend to persuade Congress to absorb all of the
states war debts.
That is the only way for the federal government to be recognized as a legitimate
governing body. How else are we to show the people that we are taking responsibility for
their well being? Assuming the war debts is the best way for us to establish the character
of a national economy.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
16/77
16
It is a truly absurd idea, as I have been trying to explain to you for over a year,
Jefferson insisted as he stared into Hamiltons eyes before breaking off and walking
towards the chair in the corner. Not every state assumed an equal portion of the debt.
You will cripple the states by removing their individual responsibilities while stripping
them of their rights to self govern.
It is just like a Virginian to oppose such a plan, claimed Hamilton as he
followed Jefferson across the room. Your state escapes the war with the smallest debt,
so you of course you rail against any plan that might help the others.
Virginia is financially self-sufficient. How exactly do you propose the federal
government will pay off such an enormous debt? asked Jefferson as he turned to face
Hamilton.
It is simple. We shall levy taxes.
Dear God. You truly have gone mad, Jefferson stated in frustration as he turned
to sit in the chair again. You claim to honor the men who gave their lives to drive away
British taxation and at the same time suggest that we replace their taxes with new ones of
our own. You will drive this nation into anarchy with such policies.
Our nations Constitution provides that Congress shall have the power to levy
taxes, said Hamilton, once again standing over Jefferson. We must exercise this power
in order to further establish federal authority and raise capital for the national
government. If we assume the states debts, the people will understand the necessity of
taxation and be willing to comply. Furthermore, the taxes I propose will be nothing like
the ludicrous ones imposed by the British.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
17/77
17
Jefferson took a moment to absorb what he had heard. Once again he thought of
how much he wished he had not been abroad while the debates of the Constitution raged,
despite knowing the importance of what he accomplished in France. If only the
legislation had been delayed, he might have been able to help. He did what he could
through letters, making it known that he strictly opposed many of the provisions outlined
in the proposed Constitution, but the letters took months to travel back to America and he
knew they could never have carried the same weight as a personally delivered speech.
If he had been able, he would have stood alongside the likes of Patrick Henry and
other Anti-Federalists, possibly tipping the scales in their favor. Now he feared that the
independence the colonies had won during the Revolution had all but been erased by the
desires of people like Hamilton to establish firm, centralized power in the federal
government.
What exactly do you expect to tax, that will not result in a revolt? Jefferson
asked.
Mainly whiskey and other intoxicating spirits.
Whiskey, Jefferson stated bluntly.
My fiscal plan will place a tax upon anyone who produces and sells whiskey,
Hamilton explained. It will be seen a justified taxation because not everyone is
interested in such spirits and will have the added benefit of promoting a measure of social
responsibility regarding drunkenness. You underestimate the common mans capacity to
see reason. There will be no revolt. Nothing like that nastiness we dealt with in
Massachusetts,
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
18/77
18
Hamilton paused, remembering that Jefferson was still in Paris during Shays
Rebellion.
Oh, my apologies, he added. You would have no knowledge of that matter,
being conveniently absent at the time.
Jefferson was prepared to argue the matter further, but suddenly lost the heart to
continue. After a moment, he simply stood up, brushing past Hamilton, and walked
across the room to an open window and stared out upon the beautiful expanse of land that
covered Mt. Vernon. His thoughts drifted to the ailing leader upstairs and he wondered
what the future might hold for the United States.
He opposed a strong federal command, but still thought it necessary to have some
form of centralized government. Even a republic would be impossible if the nations first
leader died so soon after taking command. And aside from that, Jefferson had a great
deal of respect for George Washington and it pained him to think of what the doctors had
said. His demeanor turned from agitated to morose and Hamilton was shocked at the
transformation, especially in the midst of a heated debate.
If he fails to recover from this, you might never get the chance to enact your
fiscal plan, Jefferson said finally.
What do you mean?
You said it yourself, Jefferson continued. This nation is on unsteady ground.
He is most likely the only man capable of uniting the states and convincing the people to
follow us. If he dies just one year into his term, the peoples faith in our ability to govern
them will collapse completely. Who could possibly hope to replace him right now,
especially after his time in office was so tragically cut short?
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
19/77
19
Hamilton took a moment to consider what Jefferson had said and a wave of fear
hit him. For the first time, he agreed with Jefferson completely. It might be different if
they had initially chosen another leader, but nobody could hope to replace such a
powerful figure and national hero, and certainly not after his untimely death. The people
would view his death as a symbol of the governments failure, a sign that federalism
should be abandoned entirely. The country would surely collapse into turmoil as the
states fought each other with no semblance of central control. His mood soon changed to
match Jeffersons somberness.
I see what you mean, Hamilton said.
Jefferson turned from the window and his eyes met Hamiltons. For a brief
moment, there was nothing but understanding and mutual concern between the countrys
most intense political rivals. Hamilton completely agreed with the words Jefferson spoke
next.
Never in the history of this nation has so much depended upon the life of one
man.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
20/77
20
Chapter Three
It was June in 1791, almost exactly one year after President Washingtons
miraculous recovery, when David Bradford first learned of the federal governments plan
to impose a tax on the production of whiskey. He was alone in his office in the
Washington Courthouse when a quiet knock on his door was followed by a low voice.
Excuse me, Mr. Bradford, sir, David recognized the voice of Abraham Miller, a
local farmer, coming through the door. Mind if I have a word?
Of course not, David said. Come in.
Mr. Miller, in his mid-sixties, sported a thick gray beard and carried a cane
wherever he went. He had a bad leg and took his time entering the office. David had
once handled a case concerning a dispute over the price Mr. Miller paid for tools he
purchased from another farmer. The other farmer falsely claimed they had agreed upon a
higher price and was trying to extort the extra money after Miller had already taken the
tools. David had a firm memory of Miller as being a humble and honest man throughout
the process.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
21/77
21
Why hello, Abraham, he said as the man entered. What brings you to my
office?
I come to ask your help, Mr. Bradford.
Help with what? You havent purchased any more hammers from that Conner
scoundrel, have you?
Abraham smiles slightly and shook his head.
No, sir. Ill not have more dealings with him, sir. Rest assured.
Then whats the trouble?
Well, I heard tell from Henry Bower the other day about new taxes. He tells me
President Washington just made it law that all folks is to be taxed on their whiskey from
now on.
David had heard nothing about new taxes being imposed on the federal level, but
he considered the possibility that it might be true. However, he quickly decided it was
more fiction than reality. During his time in Washington, he had learned that news
usually traveled much faster through rural gossip and hearsay than through conventional
means, but was often highly distorted as a result.
I dont doubt the possibility, Abraham, David started, but I would advise you
not to get too worked up just yet. Henry Bower is a good man, but often times these
things are just wild rumors.
How can you know it for a rumor, sir? Millerresponded. Henry told me just
the other day and already most folks say the same.
Well, for one thing, President Washington is not entitled to levy taxes. The bill
would have to pass a vote in Congress.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
22/77
22
Miller paused to absorb this information and for a moment he began to doubt the
story, but quickly became resolute once again.
Maybe he got that part wrong, but I think the tax is true. Everybodys already in
an uproar about it. You dont understand, sir. Whiskey is our livelihood. Without
whiskey, most us farmers aint got the means to feed even our young,
What does whiskey have to do with feeding your children?
See, sir. Most farmers in these parts grow grains. We work all year long to
grow grain and when we harvest we use much as we can to make flour for our families to
use for bread and such. But we grow enough that we have a good portion left over to sell
and we need to sell it so we can buy more seeds and other such things we need to plant
and grow more grain the next year. But theres no local market for all that grain way out
here on the frontier.
So you have to transport the grain to other places to sell? David asked.
Yes, Mr. Bradford. Mostly we take it to Pittsburgh. But its expensive to
transport those big barrels of grain. Theres just too much and we got no hope to fit it all
and most folks cant take but one trip cause it take so long to get to Pittsburgh. So just
about everybody turn the grain to whiskey.
You mean to say that all of the farmers in the area distill their own whiskey?
Yessir. Damn near all. Frontier farmers been makin whiskey for generations.
Please, believe me, Mr. Bradford. Were not some pack of lazy drunkards. Sure, some
folks save a bottle or two to warm up in wintertime. But not many. Most folks need to
sell all they can. Me, I never drink the stuff. Dont agree with me in the least.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
23/77
23
David took a few moments to think things over. He was ashamed that he had
lived in Washington for so long without knowing farmers distilled their excess grain into
whiskey and sold it in the city. He prided himself on being a man of the people and he
thought he knew most of the farmers pretty well. But it occurred to him that he didnt
know much about their day-to-day lives and their farming techniques. He only knew
about their legal problems and in almost ten years hed never handled a case concerning
whiskey.
So youre worried that a tax on whiskey will become too costly? David asked.
Yessir. Us farmers barely get by as it is. If they start a tax, we got no hope to
make a profit on our whiskey and we wont have the money to buy anymore supplies for
the next year. Please, believe me when I say so, sir. We likely to starve if they tax our
whiskey.
Then I sincerely hope this whiskey tax is just a rumor. But if it is real, Im not
sure there is much I could do to help.
Please, Mr. Bradford. We need you to help us somehow. You the only one who
canhelp us.
Honestly, I...
David started to speak, but was stopped short when his eyes met Millers. He was
going to explain that a federal law passed by Congress was entirely out of his hands as
Attorney General of Washington County (he had been promoted in 1789), but couldnt
bear to destroy the mans hope. David understood that the local farmers looked to him as
a man of chief legal authority, and he could see the desperation in Millers eyes.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
24/77
24
Most of the time, David was the only one the farmers trusted to handle their legal
problems, and they simply lacked the education to know the difference between local and
federal government. Many of them didnt even recognize the federal government as an
entity that could impose laws upon them at all.
For them, the president and Congress were simply out of sight and out of mind.
But that didnt stop them from fearing a potential conflict should such a government
attempt to control their lives. And in the event of such a conflict, they were prepared to
make David their general.
I cannot be sure I can help, Abraham, David said after a longsilence. But Ill
do whatever I can. I promise you that.
David tried to put conviction in his words, but they still felt cold and empty to
him. Saying them felt too much like repeating all of the hollow promises he had made
over the years about looking into measures to guard against Indian attacks, knowing full
well that such a matter was out of his hands. But Mr. Miller was overjoyed nonetheless.
Thank you, Mr. Bradford, sir. Thank you kindly. You the only one we can
count on, sir. Thank you very much.
I cant promise Ill be able to achieve anything, Abraham.
But youll try, sir. At least youll try. Thats all I ask.
* * *
Over the next several months, many poor farmers came to see him about the
proposed whiskey tax. At first David held onto his hope that the tax was just a rumor and
wished the matter would simply disappear. He would have liked to help, but didnt really
want to get involved in something that would challenge the authority of the United States
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
25/77
25
Congress. For as long as he could, he pretended the tax didnt exist. But as more and
more people came to him it became harder for him to ignore.
Finally, he looked into the matter and learned through some of McDowell and
Allisons political connections that Alexander Hamilton had indeed proposed a tax on
whiskey and that Congress had passed the necessary legislation. The only upside was
that the executive branch was taking its time in making preparations to enforce the tax.
This would be the first tax ever levied upon the citizens of the United States by the
federal government, and apparently President Washington wanted to make sure there
would be no mistakes.
But the delay would not last. Soon, federal tax collectors would be sent to
Washington County to enforce the tax. When they came, they would inspect everyones
property to determine who was distilling whiskey and in what amounts. They would then
force the people to pay their portion of the tax. David knew how the farmers would react
to this and he feared a terrible confrontation was looming.
To make matters worse, Hamilton had apparently included a provision in the tax
that would provide for a flat rate to be applied to any major distillers who produced
whiskey in bulk, so as not to disrupt any large-scale whiskey businesses and threaten an
economic downturn. However, small, independent producers, unable to take advantage
of the flat rate, would instead be taxed by the gallon.
David knew that if the farmers caught wind of that fact their indignation would
turn to complete outrage. Luckily, Hamilton had been trying to keep the provision from
becoming widely known since he wanted most people to believe that the main purpose of
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
26/77
26
the tax was to enact a measure of social control over intoxicating spirits rather than to
raise revenue for the new government.
The more he learned, the more conflicted David became. He disagreed with the
tax just as much as the farmers did, and sympathized with their plight. He wanted to help
them in any way he could, but the fact remained that he was in no position to take legal
action against the tax. Plus, he feared what might happen to him if he dared to challenge
Congress or President Washington.
David was unsure of how members of the federal government might react to
silence dissenting voices or punish those who openly opposed them. However, he
estimated that at the very least, a federal protest would ruin his career. At the worst, he
could be charged with treason and sentenced to death.
However, the parade of distraught farmers coming to his office and begging him
to do something about the tax only intensified. With each new face he became more
convinced that he needed to do something to help. Each night, when he lay down with
his wife in their luxurious bedroom, all he could think of was the poor farmers in their
cabins, much like the one where he used to live, struggling to provide for their families.
He couldnt sleep. With each passing day he became more angered at the thought of
federal tax collectors coming to impose taxes he felt were completely unjust. He
wondered if Alexander Hamilton had even considered the frontier farmers when he
proposed his tax plan. He wondered if Hamilton had any idea what the ramifications of
his new policy would be.
Eventually, David decided to turn to the person he trusted most to advise him. On
was a cold night in September, he finally explained his dilemma to his wife, and she
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
27/77
27
wasnt at all surprised. Rumors of the whiskey tax had been circulating all over town and
Elizabeth had overheard quite a lot. She also had fully expected David to be pulled into
the controversy since she knew how much the people of Washington looked up to him.
What do you intend to do? Elizabeth asked.
I honestly cannot say, he responded. I am completely torn on the matter. I am
powerless to change a federal law, but these people will not understand that. And if I do
nothing, many of them will be ruined.
The people ask too much of you, David. I know you as a good man. You would
do anything in your power in order to help them. I am sure of it. But this matter is
beyond you.
But to them it is not. If I tell them there is nothing I can do, it will surely crush
them. I cannot bring myself to do that.
What do Mr. McDowell and Mr. Allison think you should do?
They have told me to stay out of it entirely.
Maybe you should heed their advice.
Those men only concern themselves with self preservation.
They have done a great deal for us, David.
David paused to consider Elizabeths words. It was true that McDowell and
Allison were his keys to success in Washington and the primary reason he had risen so
quickly. But lately he had grown tired of their political scheming. It had become
apparent to him that they only cared about profit and power, and he had started to feel
more and more that his success was valuable to them only for their own benefit.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
28/77
28
I know it is harsh of me to criticize them after everything they have afforded us,
but it has become difficult to restrain myself. Those two see the farmers as a butcher sees
a slab of meat. I cannot see them as anything but people just like you and I, Elizabeth.
You are a good man, David. It has always been in your heart to help others.
David realized then that his mind had been made up for some time as to what to
do for the farmers. He decided to get to the heart of what was really bothering him.
I fear your words may be too kind. You are a good wife, Elizabeth. I would
never want to take any action that would place you or the children in jeopardy.
You are worried about what the government will do to us if you get involved in
this?
I am not certain what actions they might take, but I cannot image there would be
anything but swift punishment. What would you have me do?
Every bit of Elizabeths rational mind told her to persuade David to drop the
matter entirely, just as McDowell and Allison had, but something else would not allow it.
You have always provided for us in the past, she said after a long pause, and I
trust that will not change. I love you very much, David. I would have you do what is in
your heart.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
29/77
29
Chapter Four
As the months turned to years, David became more and more absorbed in the
conflict over the whiskey tax. He knew there were no practical legal measures he could
take, but he threw himself wholeheartedly into the growing political movement to oppose
the tax. Farmers across the frontier, spreading from the Carolinas, through Maryland and
Virginia, and all the way to northern Pennsylvania were becoming organized against the
federal government. They saw the tax as a direct attack upon their livelihood and they
had resolved to oppose it any way, even if it meant betraying the US government.
Several independent groups suddenly formed, led by men who rejected the tax
and drew men to the cause. However, these groups lacked any sense of collective
organization and operated on their own, fighting the tax however they saw fit. As a
result, the measures they took varied greatly. Some simply spread pamphlets and other
propaganda asking everyone to refuse to pay the tax. Others threatened any and all
whiskey producers, large and small, to join the rebellion and destroyed the stills of those
who refused.
David Bradford quickly became the symbolic leader of the anti-tax movement in
Washington and began to organize everyone he could into a unified force against federal
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
30/77
30
control. McDowell and Allison disapproved of his actions, but he no longer cared.
David came to embody the spirit of a revolutionary and felt a deep responsibility to do
anything he could for his followers, who were growing rapidly. He knew a potentially
violent conflict was brewing, and he soon focused his efforts on preparing them for the
worst.
In late September in 1793, David decided to call a town hall meeting to properly
address how the town would resist paying the tax. Tax collectors had been operating in
the area for over a year and many people had reluctantly paid them, knowing no other
recourse. But the tax was already having devastating effects on the already depressed
local economy and people were becoming truly enraged.
The effects of the tax stretched beyond farmers since many people on the frontier
used bottles of whiskey as currency to barter and trade. However, federal collectors had
no sympathies for these practices. Anyone who possessed whiskey was subject to the
tax, and people with a still were charged even more. Rapidly, people from all across the
county reached their breaking point and would not tolerate the federal intrusion. They
regarded the tax collectors as being no different from the British soldiers and government
officers who had plagued them before the Revolution. Plans were forming for a large-
scale boycott of the tax, and many people felt violent measures would need to be taken to
achieve such a thing.
David knew a boycott could only succeed through the utmost cooperation, so he
wanted everyone to be fully united when it came time to resist paying the tax. He also
wanted to avoid any violence. His initial plan was to have an open forum to discuss the
matter, but as rumors of the meeting spread, the information became distorted.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
31/77
31
Somehow, most people were under the impression that David was going to
deliver a speech and soon that was exactly what everyone expected. On September 21st,
almost two hundred men, many of them bringing their wives and children as well,
gathered on the steps of the Washington Courthouse to hear David speak.
Though it was not what hed intended, David decided to give the people what
they wanted and had spent several days preparing a speech. He stood alone at the main
entrance of the courthouse and looked out over the expanse of people who had covered
the steps. The general commotion fell silent as David delivered his first lines.
Citizens of Washington, he began. Too long have you been ignored by the
men who claim to watch over all who inhabit this great nation and provide for your well
being. Too long have you been forgotten by those who claimed to offer you freedom and
prosperity. Too long have you struggled in poverty, only to watch those men who
promised to help, turn a blind eye to your suffering. This nation was established on the
ideals of independence, equality, and liberation from unjust taxation. How many of you
fought for these men, bled for them, risked your lives for them during the Revolution as
they promised you your freedom? How many of your friends, your fathers, and your
brothers died for those promises? Our relatives and loved ones sacrificed their lives to
force the British Empire off of our shores and back across a vast ocean, only to have our
nation enslaved once again by a government just as greedy. We were promised liberty
and democracy. We were promised an end to tyranny and taxation. But the United
States of America has been subjugated at the foot of the Federalists. Their new tax
threatens to destroy you all, and yet you have been asked to accept its authority. But no
true patriot would ever accept the authority of that which strips him of his land and his
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
32/77
32
life. No patriot would stand idly by while the rich and powerful deprive him of his right
to happiness. These laws are not the laws those who fought for us were promised. These
rights are not the rights of free men. This tax brings with it nothing but the stench of
oppression, and I say the people of Washington will tolerate it no longer! Stand as one,
and together we shall prevail! Stand united, and together we shall have our freedom!
To this, thunderous applause rose up from the people and rolled out along the
hills, and in that moment David Bradford allowed himself to believe that what he had
promised them was possible.
* * *
Throughout the following spring, tensions over the whiskey tax escalated heavily.
By the summer of 1794, the peoples animosity forthe tax collectors had gotten almost
entirely out of control, as threats against the collectors increased and more people rushed
to join the resistance. The people who heard Davids speech had become emboldened,
and as stories of what he said stretched across the land, the tale elevated him to the status
of a mythical hero. Stories sprang up everywhere about how David Bradford had
promised to fight off the tax collectors with his bare hands and how he had promised to
ride all the way to Philadelphia to hold President Washington hostage until the
government agreed to repeal the tax. Some people recognized these outlandish rumors
for what they were, but they drew inspiration from their spirit nonetheless.
The real David Bradford seemed to have diminished slightly while his legend
grew. The past few years had been stressful, and his youthful face now showed
considerable signs of age. It was as if, at 34, hed jumped right into his mid-forties.
More due to a lack of concern for shaving than regard for appearance or status, he now
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
33/77
33
sported a deep, oak colored beard that glinted with bits of gray, just like his hair. The
pressure to live up to his promises had taken its toll.
David now worried that the revolt had now grown beyond his ability to manage it.
Throughout the countryside, there had been attacks on individual tax collectors,
orchestrated by small groups of men whose resolve had been strengthened by the idea of
fighting off tyranny, and it was David who had planted such thoughts in their minds.
Alexander Hamilton sensed that an increased federal presence was necessary in
Washington County and ordered a large group of federal collectors to convene in the city
of Washington to force David Bradford and his followers to comply with the tax.
On July 10th, 1794, a group of eighteen tax collectors, some of them armed,
assembled just outside the city and then marched down Main Street. David had expected
something like this to happen eventually and had taken steps to ensure that anyone
sympathetic to the boycott would be ready at a moments notice, similar to the Minute
Men militias used during the Revolution. As soon as people caught sight of the posse,
they immediately gathered at the Bradford House, on the southern end of Main Street,
and waited for the collectors to arrive. Within twenty minutes, over fifty men had formed
a barricade outside of the house.
When they finally reached the Bradford House, the collectors were surprised to
find they were so heavily outnumbered. There were a few nervous exchanges amongst
the men, but a stout man named Rothbard, who reported directly to Alexander Hamilton,
quickly took command.
We are here today because this county is in severe violation of the federal excise
upon distilled spirits, Rothbard boomed. Under the good authority of the government
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
34/77
34
of the United States of America, we demand that all persons in violation of this law shall
immediately pay all fees, in addition to all legally imposed penalties for failure to
comply, or face swift punishment in the form of imprisonment and possible seizure of
property.
At the utterance of the words good authority there was quite a bit of laughter,
but when Rothbard finished speaking, he crowd erupted in outrage. A few men shouted
complaints, even more yelled insults, and the crowd slowly began to spread out and
surround the collectors. David knew he had to gain control, and he stepped forward to
speak.
We understand that you men are only here to fulfill your duty, he began. But
we do not recognize the federal excise in this land.
This drew a raucous cheer from all those gathered besides the collectors.
The federal government, he continued, does not understand the importance of
whiskey to the lives of these men. It is not a luxury or a vice in this land. It is their
livelihood. Believe me when I say we are prepared to resist any tax on distilled spirits
since such taxes deny us the liberty we were promised. However, we have no desire to
harm you. Please, just turn back and leave peacefully. Tell your superiors that we
refused your collections.
David Bradford, I presume, Rothbard replied. We have heard a great deal
about you. I am certain such a learned man of the law recognizes the impossibility of
what he asks. Your terms are unacceptable.
Whats unacceptable is you people comin in here with your taxes and threats,
said Abraham Miller as he stepped forward gingerly. Were free men in Washington.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
35/77
35
You will be silent, cripple, barked Rothbard. I will not be lectured by a
simpleton.
This remark was like a match falling on dry grass. Until that moment, tensions
had been high, but everyone had been waiting for Davids cue before doing anything.
However, nobody was prepared tolerate such insults, especially when they were directed
at someone as well loved and respected as Abraham Miller. And truth be told, even
David was moved to anger.
In an instant, the mob converged on the collectors. The few men who had pistols,
one of them being Rothbard, tried to draw their weapons, but were overcome. One man
managed to pull his from his pocket, but he was overpowered and his arms were forced
upward. A single shot was fired into the air before he was disarmed and wrestled to the
ground. As most of the mob went straight for Rothbard, eleven of the original eighteen
collectors were able to struggle their way free of the mob and fled without being pursued.
The six who remained with him were easily thrown to the ground and beaten.
As for Rothbard, he received by far the worst treatment. Once he was stripped of
his pistol, he was stripped to his undergarments and roughly held in place on the ground
while two men used blades to crop his hair. While this was happening, a few members of
the mob left to retrieve the hot tar and feathers they had been storing nearby for just such
an event. When they returned, they lathered Rothbards entire body with the tar, burning
him severely, and rolled him in the feathers. He would be left permanently disfigured,
but fortunately the tar was not hot enough to kill him.
After they were done with Rothbard, the mob bound the other mens hands and
feet with rope and all seven of them were loaded onto a horse drawn cart. They were
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
36/77
36
then paraded through town while members of the mob yelled cheers of victory to
everyone who had come down to Main Street to watch. When they reached the city
limits, the mob tossed their prisoners from the cart and told them to leave Washington
County immediately and warned them never to return, unless they wanted a treatment
similar to Rothbards. The mob then returned to the town triumphantly and orchestrated
an impromptu town wide celebration to rejoice in the banishment of the tax collectors.
David Bradford had participated in no part of the attack on the collectors, but at
the same time he had done nothing to oppose it. In truth, he had derived a great deal of
satisfaction from watching the men overcome the collectors and defend their town from
such a threat. Hed gained special pleasure from watching them beat Rothbard and crop
his hair, but when it came to the tar and feathering, he became rather uneasy. David
feared the men were taking things too far, and he actually felt some sympathy for
Rothbard. But still, he did nothing to intervene.
In the end, David truly believed the taxes, and by extension the men who enforced
the taxes, were unjust and that the citizens of Washington had a right to resist them.
After all, the United States of America had been founded upon a tradition of resisting,
violently if necessary, any form of oppression that threatens a mans right to life, liberty,
and the pursuit of happiness. In Davids mind, the federal government was guilty of such
oppression and deserved to be treated as the enemy. So he allowed himself to forget the
regret he had felt at watching Rothbard being maimed and became absorbed in the
celebration, in which he was a hero. Though he had done nothing to help, most of the
people regarded him as the source of the entire resistance and gave him nearly all of the
credit for ridding Washington of the tax collectors.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
37/77
37
But when he returned to his house later that night and looked at Elizabeth, all of
the regret he had felt came rushing back tenfold. He was overcome with an intense
feeling of shame and dread. What had happened that day was not a victory. It was a
tragedy that he was responsible for. Until then, the attacks on tax collectors had been
mild and scattered, but this would be seen as a declaration of war. He hadnt banished
the tax collectors from Washington at all. He had ensured that they would be back in far
greater numbers, and they would bring the full might of the federal government with
them.
Elizabeth said nothing, but simply looked up at him with a mixed expression of
concern and apprehension. David wanted to speak to her and explain what had happened.
He wanted to tell her how worried he was for what might happen to them now. More
than anything, he wanted to tell her how sorry he was. But when he opened his mouth,
he could only summon the strength for four words:
What have I done?
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
38/77
38
Chapter Five
George Washington was sitting in the second floor private office of the
Presidents Mansion in Philadelphia, in early August of 1794, thinking about what had
transpired. Over the past year or so, hed beenreceiving reports from all over the frontier
concerning resistance to the new excise on whiskey, some of them involving minor
violence against federal authorities, but the latest report was by far the most troubling. A
few troublemakers refusing to pay the tax was one thing, but a mob of over fifty men
performing such atrocities was a sign of outright revolt.
Washington sat in his thick, oak chair and read the report again by the dim
firelight until the cabinet members hed been waiting for arrived. Itwas very late to be
holding a meeting of this sort, but he didnt want to discuss this matter during the day
when the house would be full of people. Finally, there came a knock at the door.
Come in, Washington called.
The old door creaked as it opened and Alexander Hamilton came walking into the
room followed by Thomas Jefferson. Hamilton strode over to Washingtons chair
immediately and stood before the president as if at attention, while Jefferson preferred to
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
39/77
39
simply take a seat in the corner. He could barely be seen, since the fire was the rooms
only source of light.
You have both been informed of our situation on the western frontier I assume,
Washington stated.
Indeed, sir, Hamilton responded. I received the dispatch just a few days ago.
Jefferson simply chuckled softly.
Do you find something amusing, Mr. Jefferson? the president asked.
My apologies, sir, but I learned of this situation years ago when Mr. Hamilton
explained his plans for a new excise tax to me, Jefferson said with a grin.
At this, Hamilton turned around and glared at Jefferson. The animosity between
them had only grown over the years and Hamilton was so enraged at this point that he
might have physically attacked Jefferson if they had not been in the company of the
president at the time. Washington was simply annoyed.
I grow weary of this incessant bickering, he said.
If Mr. Jefferson would simply cease his endless feuding with me, our
government might begin to work at an appropriate pace, Hamilton said. He has fought
me at every turn over every policy.
Excuse me, Jefferson interjected, but I fail to see how my attempts to prevent
you from leading this nation into ruin are something I should abandon. I do seem to
recall you making some sort of guarantee in regards to there being no possible resistance
to such a tax.
Hamilton took a few steps toward Jefferson and opened his mouth as if to shout,
but Washington cut him off.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
40/77
40
Enough! he demanded. I will not have anymore of this from either of you. I
did not summon you here in the middle of the night to listen to another political wrestling
match. We are faced with a major problem, a direct threat to our newly formed
government. These frontiersmen have openly assaulted an assembly of collections
officers and are celebrating the event even now. They refuse to recognize their
responsibilities under the tax laws, and in so doing have stated their intention to resist the
very authority of the federal government. This situation is far more important than any
personal quarrel between the two of you. I would have you both act as cabinet members
rather than children for once.
Both men fell silent immediately. Hamilton strode away from Jefferson and took
a seat across from the president.
Now I am sure I will nothave to impress upon either of you the importance of
dealing swiftly with such a rebellion, Washington continued. The question, however,
is what exactly should be done.
An armed rebellion of this nature can only be dealt with by military force,
Hamilton urged. We must act quickly to gather the necessary troops and suppress this
uprising.
Either I am mistaken, Jefferson interrupted, or you and I received different
reports on the matter. I cannot remember anything about the men being armed.
They tarred and feathered my chief collections officer! Hamilton roared.
Since when do tar and feathers qualify as weapons? Shall we count all roofers
and pillow makers as members of the militias? Your men were the only ones carrying
pistols, Jefferson rebutted.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
41/77
41
And you can see why they felt it necessary to carry such weapons, said
Hamilton. They were met with nothing but violence from the beginning. I am telling
you, military force is the only way to solve this. Their leader, this Bradford fellow, is
quite the inflammatory agent. He is an educated man, from what I hear, but has taken it
upon himself to become the personal crusader of the working class. He has them riled up
to the point of anarchy. We must march into Washington and seize him at once.
Are you suggesting that I send an army against our own citizens and into the
very town that has chosen to honor me by adopting my name? Washington questioned.
At this there was once again firm silence. Washington stared at Hamilton, then at
Jefferson, before looking back to Hamilton, but neither man seemed willing to respond.
Both could tell they had crossed the line once again with their arguing and to make
matters worse, neither had any idea how to respond to such a question. A few embers
cracked loudly from the fire, and Hamilton actually flinched at the noise. Realizing that
he would have to be the next one to speak, Washington continued.
It occurs to me, Alexander, that much of this is in fact the result of your actions.
You failed to consider the full ramifications of your proposed economic policies. I
understand that you were only attempting to make this nation stronger, and I commend
your intentions, but I fear what your ignorance may bring next if I continue to follow
your advice.
Sir, I... Hamilton started, but he was quickly cut off.
Sir, Mr. Hamiltons policies were indeed misguided, Jefferson said, but
unfortunately the mistakes of the past are unalterable. A man may only affect the present
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
42/77
42
moment, and at present it does seem that this situation has become entirely chaotic. I
must admit, swift action through military force is most likely our only recourse now.
Washington let out a long sign as if defeated. He had known since reading the
report that it would come to this, but he hadnt wanted to admit it. He was hoping that
somehow Hamilton or Jefferson could offer another solution, but there simply wasnt
one. To let such a blatant assault upon federal authority go unpunished would
compromise the government forever. They would be seen as weak in the eyes of the
people and the states would quickly denounce them as no longer valid. The Constitution
would soon be repealed and the union would crumble.
Then we come to another problem, Washington said. The Continental Army is
far too small to send against such an uprising. We have no idea how many men we might
face if we march into Washington. Bradford has no doubt summoned even more to his
cause with his latest victory and an attempt at open military suppression will attract even
more attention from the people living there.
Then we must summon militias from the states, Hamilton insisted.
What makes you think they will cooperate? Jefferson asked.
The Constitution provides the president with the power to raise militiasfrom the
states in the event of a threat to the government or national well being, Hamilton
informed him.
Dear lord, you devils managed to sneak all sorts of things in that document,
didnt you? Jefferson scoffed.
How right you are! It is a shame youwere not with us to argue that provision
down, Hamilton sneered. We would be completely out of options in that case.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
43/77
43
For the first time since sitting down, Jefferson rose from his chair. The detached,
sarcastic demeanor he had been displaying was erased by real anger. He took the insult
about his objection to Hamiltons policies, and especially the reference to his absenteeism
during the Constitutional Convention, very seriously. However, President Washington
raised his arm in a gesture of peacekeeping, and Jefferson simply stood silent.
Please, Washington said. I know you two have your differences, but I need
you both to portray an air of solidarity, especially now, at least while in the eye of the
public. Alexander is correct. Our only choice now is to invoke our right to summon
militias from the states.
Both men looked a little shocked at his decision. They were now standing side by
side and both faced their leader with rapt attention.
Make the necessary preparations, Alexander, Washington continued, and
inform me when an adequate militia is assembled. I will lead them myself.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
44/77
44
Chapter Six
It was a cold night, later that October, when John McDowell and James Allison
went to the Bradford House to visit David. The wind was violent and they were forced to
hold their hats in place while they walked. It had been some time since they had seen
their former protg. His involvement with the rebellion and their opposition to such
participation had distanced them.
Both men agreed that Davids actions were making it much more difficult to do
business, both with the federal government and especially with the banks that stood to
profit by certain policies the government had enacted. Federal authority was a major
boon for the businessman, and McDowell and Allison had greatly resented ever
spreading so much word about their support of David Bradford during his earlier career.
Now many people were wary of getting involved with them out of fear that it might
indicate anti-government sympathies.
In a sense, what they had come to tell David was for his own benefit, but they
probably would not have done so if they had nothing to gain by it themselves. Allison
rapped hard on the large front door and the two of them waited for an answer. They were
let in by a servant and told to wait in the downstairs parlor while David was summoned.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
45/77
45
What are you two doing here? David asked upon reaching the landing of the
staircase.
That is no way to greet old friends, David, McDowell said.
Old friends we may be, but you have opposed my every action for the last two
years, David responded. I cannot imagine youve come to make peace now.
On the contrary, David, Allison argued, we come in your best interest. We
have urgent news that you must not wait to act upon.
David was doubtful, but intrigued. After a few moments of consideration, he
entered the parlor and invited the men to take a seat. David, however, remained standing,
and simply wandered to the fireplace, where a fire was still burning, although much of
the light in the room came from candlelit lanterns. He rested his elbow on the mantel and
turned to face his company.
So, what news do you speak of? he asked.
Your life is in grave danger, David, Allison started. We have come to warn
you. You must flee as quickly as you can. Tonight, if possible. You havent much
time.
David was shocked, and a little offended by the thought of them coming to his
home to try driving him out of town with such intimidation.
What on earth are you talking about? he demanded.
President Washington has invoked Martial Law and has summoned militia
members from several states in order to quell your little uprising, McDowell stated. It
seems he was highly displeased with your latest attack on federal officers and has become
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
46/77
46
determined to make an example of this county, and of you specifically. He is marching
here to arrest you for treason as we speak.
In the back of his mind, David had been expecting something like this to happen
eventually, but it still hit him like a punch to the stomach. His legs felt weak and he
wanted to sit down, but he refused to sit alongside McDowell and Allison so he forced
himself to remain standing. He hoped neither of them had noticed the moment of
weakness.
I appreciate the warning, he said finally, but I have no intention of abandoning
my family or the people of Washington. The tyranny of this government cannot be
allowed to continue and I will stand with these people and fight if necessary.
You do not realize the futility of such an action, McDowell said. The states
have combined to provide over thirteen thousand men for the Presidents militia and he is
marching all of them here. You have no hope of resisting.
Attempting to fight such an army will only result in massacre, David, Allison
asserted. You must realize that. If you truly care about these people, you have no
choice but to flee in the hope that a bloody conflict will be avoided.
Upon hearing this, David could no longer stand and chose to take a seat a chair
across from the sofa McDowell and Allison were occupying. He didnt think he could
truly trust either of them, but he still believed what they were saying. Such a response
from the government only made sense, and even if they were exaggerating the numbers,
the farmers of Washington and the others who had joined their cause had no chance of
resisting a force even half that size.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
47/77
47
I know we have had our differences these last few years, McDowell said, but
you must understand that we all wish to avoid a massacre. And although you may not
believe us, we care about your safety as well.
He stopped speaking and took a moment to glance at Allison. Both men seemed
to be considering something, although David was too preoccupied to notice. McDowell
gave a slight nod, which prompted Allison to speak.
Weve heard rumors that, upon your capture, President Washington intends to
hang you on the steps of the courthouse to serve as an example for every citizen of the
United States that opposition to the government will not be tolerated.
David was appalled, and his anger forced him back to his feet. Somehow, in the
excitement of the moment, he was bothered more by the idea of such open oppression
and intimidation rather than by the thought of his own death.
They intend to stage a public execution? he bellowed. This is their notion of
liberty? To force people into submission under penalty of death!
You must remember, David, McDowell urged, that treason is the highest of all
crimes in this land. And you cannot argue that you are guilty.
I may be guilty of opposing a tyrannical government, David replied, but it was
not long ago that President Washington was guilty of the same crime. He has become
worse than King George and the United States government worse than the Empire it
replaced. It is clear to me that great power may corrupt even the greatest man.
McDowell and Allison exchanged looks once again and both men had to fight the
urge not to scoff at such a statement. They were pleased, however, that their plan seemed
to be working.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
48/77
48
We are sorry it has come to this, David, Allison stated, but you now realize
how grave the situation has become, do you not? You must agree that the only
reasonable course of action would be for you to leave Washington immediately.
David had walked back to the mantel over the fireplace and was staring at a
painting of his family hed commissioned shortly after they moved into the house. He
and Elizabeth looked so young and he wondered if the artist had been too flattering, but
he realized that she looked almost the same today. It was he who had aged considerably
in the past five years.
In the painting, their children were all still very young, the oldest, his son
Thomas, being only eight. James, William, and Peter were only a year apart in age at six,
five, and four respectively. Their youngest, and only daughter, Angela, was still just an
infant. The children had all been growing up without him, raised mostly by Elizabeth
and the Bradford House servants. As he looked at the painting, David marveled at how
quickly time had passed. He had felt for a long time that he wasnt spending enough time
with them, but there were so many pressures placed upon him by his legal practice and
the people of Washington that he never seemed to be able to rectify that mistake. Now
the thought of leaving them to grow up without any father at all tore him apart inside.
I apologize for my earlier hostility, David said finally. I want to thank you
both for informing me of the militia and the presidents intentions, but I am unsure if I
will leave Washington or not. Now, if you would not mind, it is late and I am going to
retire.
David walked out of the room and left McDowell and Allison to be led out by the
same servant who let them in. When he was halfway up the stairs, he heard McDowell
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
49/77
49
call out something about doing the right thing, but he paid it no attention. He went
straight for the master bedroom and when he got there he found that Elizabeth was still
awake.
Whats the matter? she asked as soon as he entered.
David made his way across the room and sat down on the bed beside her. He
wore a grim expression and she knew something terrible had happened.
President Washington is leading an army of over thirteen thousand men, which
he has gathered from various state militias, and he intends to bring them here, David
informed her. According to Mr. McDowell and Mr. Allison, I am his primary target and
he intends to have me hanged for treason in front of everyone.
My God...
They came to urge me to flee Washington while I can.
What are you going to do?
I dont know, I...
David lost the strength to maintain his composure any longer, and he broke down
in front of his wife into heaving sobs. Elizabeth sprang up immediately to hold him.
I am so sorry, Elizabeth, he cried, for bringing this upon us. I never should
have gotten involved in this rebellion, and now I have ruined us. I swore that I would
always take care of you and the children, but I have failed. I convinced these people to
challenge their government and because of that, I have failed you all.
Elizabeth gripped David tightly and kissed his forehead several times. She felt so
sorry for what had happened to him and wished she could have done something to stop it.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
50/77
50
You have not failed us, David, she said. Dont ever think that you have failed
us. Your family loves you and you have been a wonderful husband and father. You have
provided us with everything we could ever need and more. It is not your fault that this
has happened. You did not choose to lead these people, they chose you.
I should never have allowed myself to become so involved.
No, you did the right thing. You offered hope to those who had none. You
stood up for them and fought to make their lives better. And though it seems this
resistance is doomed to end, it will stand as a source of inspiration for people
everywhere. You taught people that it is always right for them to fight for their freedom,
and one day they might prevail. That will be your legacy.
After that, the two of them sat in each others arms for a long time. They said
nothing, and yet communicated more than words ever could. David was so grateful to
have such a kind and devoted wife, and Elizabeth was proud of everything her husband
had become. After a while, they separated and just lay together, awake, and thinking
about what to do.
Eventually they decided that David had no choice but to leave. It was the only
chance the town had of avoiding a massacre. If he stayed, the people would be too
devoted to protecting him, no matter what he told them, and their deaths would
accomplish nothing. They also decided that it would be impractical for him to travel with
a wife and five children, especially since he would be a fugitive.
David was worried about his familys safety, but decided Elizabeth was right
when she pointed out that it was unlikely President Washington would go so far as to
harm an innocent woman and her children. They agreed they would miss each other
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
51/77
51
terribly, but Elizabeth was also right when she said: I would rather miss my husband for
the rest of my life and know that he was safe somewhere far away, than watch him be
hanged in front of me.
So they decided that David would pack up the things he needed and depart the
next day. He wasnt sure where he would go, but he knew he had to make it out of
United States territory, and luckily he was not too far away from open territory living on
the frontier. He would head for Pittsburgh first and decide from there where to go. After
making all of the necessary preparations, they kissed each other goodnight and Elizabeth
lay back down to sleep, but David stayed up.
Thank you for everything, he said. I will join you soon, but there is one more
thing I have to do.
Elizabeth rolled over to sleep as David left the room and walked down the
hallway to the childrens bedroom. He opened the door slowly to avoid making any
sound and crept into the room. There were two beds along the wall, each shared by two
of the boys, while Angela had her own, smaller bed. She was still young enough to be
strapped to the bed for the night to prevent her from falling out while she slept and
possibly rolling into the fire, which was kept burning all night during the winter to keep
the children warm.
David made his way across the room as quietly as he could until he reached the
side of the bed where Thomas was sleeping. He shook his son gently to wake him.
Wha...Whats going on? Thomas said, still half asleep.
Shhhhh, dont wake the others, David whispered. I only need to speak with
you for a moment and then you can go back to sleep.
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
52/77
52
What is it? Thomas whispered back, now more alert.
Tomorrow is going to be a busy day, and I was not sure if Id have time tell you
this so I have to do it now. There are men coming to arrest me, Thomas, for challenging
the tax and they mean to do me great harm. Do you understand?
Thomas nodded.
My only chance is to escape before they arrive, but it means I have to leave you
all behind. I am very sad to have to do this, but it is the only way. But I need you to
promise me something before I go. Can you do that?
Thomas nodded again.
I need you to look after your mother and make sure shes all right. You must
care for your brothers and most of all, your sister. They will all be depending on you
from now on. Make sure you take good care of them all until I see you again. Im
counting on you. Do you promise?
I promise, Thomas whispered.
Thank you, Thomas. Now go back to sleep. I will see you in the morning.
Father... Thomas called, just above a whisper, as David was turning to leave.
Yes, Thomas?
The thirteen-year-old boy looked at his father as if it were the last time he would
ever see him. He knew they would see each other the next day, but he had no idea what
would happen after that. All he could think of was that he knew his father was leaving
and he wasnt sure if he was ever coming back. The severity of this laiy on him like a
giant stone, but at the same time he was honored. It felt good to know that his father
7/25/2019 Frontier Rebellion
53/77
53
trusted him with such an important task and thought of him as enough o
Top Related