The Shadow Army of 1894
Across Washington, a mysterious paramilitary organization known as the 'Patriot Army' begins organizing, leaving observers to wonder if they are preparing for revolution or political theatre.
Tacoma, May 22—The 'Patriot Army' is currently the main topic of conversation. A meeting was held here this afternoon by members of various railway unions in the interest of the American Railway Union. A vigorous address was made by agent Kelliher of the Railway Union and John McBride, president of the United Mine Workers Association. The movement is spreading rapidly. The Patriots, they say, are organized for purposes, and they are now talking of joining with the Populists. One soldier frankly admitted he thought the movement was a farce and the organization of the Patriots was merely for the purpose of keeping up agitation until after the election. Nevertheless, the authorities are interested, as the men, mostly soldiers, seem to be preparing for war. The Patriots will be organized at Spokane, Walla Walla, and Whatcom this week. At the first meeting last week, about 100 joined; no one was allowed to be present who was not a soldier. The doors were locked, and arrangements for a drill were made.
“The Patriots, they say, will be organized at Spokane, Walla Walla and Whatcom this week.”
In the spring of 1894, the Pacific Northwest was on edge due to the Pullman Strike and growing labor unrest. The 'Patriot Army' movement captures the era's extreme political anxiety, where paramilitary organizing—even if performative—was a common response to economic instability.
From readers
No comments yet. If you know something about this story — a correction, a family memory, a source — it belongs here.