In this draft letter, Kansas Governor John Martin of Topeka calls upon local county and city officials to discharge their duties to preserve the peace, protect property and see that commerce of the state is not interrupted by violence or lawless acts. This activity takes place during the railroad strike of 1886 where strike activities have led to a serious disruption of community and business life. Although the governor had been hesitant to draft a proclamation condemning the disruption, numerous petitions from private citizens and local officials across the state ultimately forced his hand.
Kansas Memory
Kansas Historical Society
Governor John Martin to the sheriffs, county attorneys and other peace officers of the State of Kansas - 8