Judah Marsh, Jr., of Ware, Massachusetts, begged “the forgiveness of God and an injured community” in this written confession dated February 14, 1787. Marsh related that he had been chosen as an ensign in a “train” (trained) “band” (militia) and was under the influence of people “whose knowledge and judgment in public affairs, I supposed much superior to my own.” This refers to Shays’ Rebellion (1786-1787) when Revolutionary War veteran and farmer Daniel Shays with his anit-government “Regulators” led a revolt against the new state government following the severe depreciation of money, and the institution of new taxes, all of which caused many farmers to lose their lands. Marsh went to Springfield, Massachusetts, with the Regulators to atack the armory there, but dismissed his company at Amherst during the retreat, having become “fully sensible that I have acted a part contrary to the laws of God, as well as my country.” He insists that he “never had a design to shed blood, nor did I imagine the controversy would ever come to shedding blood.” Nevertheless, he was fully conscious that he had listened to “bad advice.” Pleading for mercy and understanding due to his youth and previous good behavior, Marsh threw himself on the mercy of the state.
Marsh, Judah. The Confession of Judah Marsh. Hampshire Gazette, February 21, 1787. Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association, American Centuries. https://americancenturies.org/collection/l04-089/. Accessed on October 16, 2024.
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