Journal of the House of Delegates of the State of Virginia, for the Session of 1861-62

The first governor's message, dated December 2, 1861, includes such topics as Virginia's secession from the Union, Maryland's choice to support the North, capture of Norfolk's navy yard, Harper's Ferry and Fortress Monroe, the response of the militia and volunteers to the war effort, arming the troops, bonds, movement in northwestern Virginia by some to establish their own commonwealth in support of the North, contribution of women to the cause, treasurer's report, Virginia Military Institute, University of Virginia, rail roads as well as other topics.

The second governor's message, dated May 5, 1862, includes such topics as the recent conscription bill, rights of states, prisons, railroads, and other subjects as well as the mention of treason in Wheeling whose convention refused to adopt the Confederate Constitution.