This case file contains arrest warrants, summons, and subpoenas that relate to the charge against Lyman Allen and others of participating in an illegal legislature in Topeka, Kansas Territory on March 4, 1856. An arrest warrant was issued on January 5, 1857 after Samuel J. Jones was summoned before the 2nd U.S. District Court at Tecumseh and testified that all members listed in the warrant had met in Topeka as a legislative body. The Free-State Legislature, based in Topeka, was elected on January 15, 1856 in response to the federally recognized proslavery territorial government elected in March of 1855 in an election with widespread voter fraud. The Free-State Legislature was dispersed by the U.S. Army in July of 1856 on orders from President Pierce.
Kansas Memory
Kansas Historical Society
United States versus Lyman Allen et al for participation in Topeka legislature - 9