This term Johnnies, or Johnny Rebs, is said to have originated in a taunting remark addressed to a rebel picket, to the effect that the Southern States relied on “John Bull” to help them gain their independence, and that the picket himself was no better than a “John Bull”; an accusation which he indignantly denied, saying that he would “as soon be called a ‘nigger’ as a ‘Johnny Bull.’”
382. What was the “Day of Corn-sacks”?
The 3d of January, 1591, is so called, in French history, from an attempt made by Henry IV. to surprise Paris on that day. Some of his officers, disguised as corn dealers, with sacks on their shoulders, endeavored to get possession of the gate St. Honore; but they were recognized, and obliged to make a hasty retreat.
383. Who were the “Copperheads”?
This popular nickname originated in the time of the late Rebellion, and was applied to a faction in the North, which was very generally considered to be in secret sympathy with the Rebellion, and to give it aid and comfort by attempting to thwart the measures of the government. The name is derived from a poisonous serpent, called the copperhead (Trigonocephalus contortrix), whose bite is considered as deadly as that of the rattlesnake and whose geographical range extends from forty-five degrees north to Florida. The copperhead, unlike the rattlesnake, gives no warning of its attack, and is, therefore, the type of a concealed foe.
384. What was “Symnes’ Hole”?
An enormous opening imagined by Capt. John Cleve Symnes (1780–1829), a visionary American theorizer, to exist in the crust of the earth at eighty-two degrees north. Through this opening, he thought a descent might be made into the interior of the globe, which he supposed to be peopled with plants and animals, and to be lighted by two small subterranean planets, named Pluto and Proserpine, which diffused a mild radiance.
385. Who is the “Quaker Poet”?
This name is often given to John Greenleaf Whittier, a noted American poet, who was born of Quaker parentage and is a member of the Society of Friends.
The name was also given to Bernard Barton (1784–1849), an English poet of some note, and a member of the Society of Friends. His poems fill eight or nine volumes, the “Household Verses” being among his best productions.