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A Little Blood
Government was a means to get ahead. Party loyalty mattered less than local self-interest. A lawmaker described the Dakota legislature in action: "A little blood was shed, much whiskey drunk, a few eyes blacked,
revolvers drawn, and some running done."
The biggest plum was the capital. Yankton promoters supported George Pinney for speaker, but he pushed his hometown of Bon Homme, and then Vermillion, for the capital. Opponents plotted to toss the double-crosser
out the window. The governor sent in troops and the plan failed, but Pinney resigned. The Sergeant at Arms later tossed him out of a local tavern window.
Related items from the collections
Course requirements for men seeking a degree in agriculture found in the first Dakota Agriculture College catalog, 1885. Course requirements for women seeking a degree in agriculture and domestic economy found in the first Dakota Agriculture College catalog, 1885. Message of the Squatter Governor of the Territory of Dakota, January 12, 1875.
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