THE OHIO PHALANX.
This Association, originally called the American Phalanx, commenced
with a very ambitious programme and flattering prospects; but it did
not last so long as many of its contemporaries. It belonged to the
Pittsburg group of experiments. The founder of it was E.P. Grant. Mr.
Van Amringe was one of its leaders, whom we saw busy at the Trumbull.
The first announcement of it we find in the third number of the
_Phalanx_, as follows:
[From the _Phalanx_, December 5, 1843.]
"GRAND MOVEMENT IN THE WEST.--The friends of Association in Ohio
and other portions of the West, have undertaken the organization
of a Phalanx upon quite an extended scale. They have secured a
magnificent tract of land on the Ohio, have framed a
constitution, and taken preliminary steps to make an early
commencement.
The projectors say: "We feel pleasure in announcing that the
American Phalanx has contracted for about two thousand acres of
land in Belmont County, Ohio, known as the Pultney farm, lying
along the Ohio river, seven or eight miles below Wheeling; and
that sufficient means are already pledged to remove all doubts
as to the formation of an Association, as soon as the domain
can be prepared for the reception of the members. The land has
been purchased of Col. J.S. Shriver, of Wheeling, Virginia, at
thirty dollars per acre, payable at the pleasure of the
Association, in sums not less than $5,000. The payment of six
per cent. interest semi-annually, is secured by a lien on the
land.
"The tract selected is two and a-half miles in length from north
to south, and of somewhat irregular breadth, by reason of the
curvatures of the Ohio river, which forms its eastern boundary.
It contains six hundred acres of bottom land, all cleared and
under cultivation; the residue is hill land of a fertility truly
surprising and indeed incredible to persons unacquainted with
the hills of that particular neighborhood. Of the hill lands,
about two hundred and fifty acres are cleared, and about three
hundred acres more have been partially cleared, so as to answer
imperfectly for sheep pasture. The residue is for the most part
well-timbered.
"There are upon the premises two frame dwelling-houses, and ten
log houses, mostly with shingle roofs; none of them, however,
are of much value, except for temporary purposes.
"The domain is singularly beautiful, as well as fertile; and
when it is considered, in connection with the advantages already
enumerated, that it is situated on one of the greatest
thoroughfares in the world, the charming Ohio, along which from
six to ten steamboats pass every day for eight or nine months in
the year; that it is immediately accessible to several large
markets, and a multitude of small ones; and that it is within
seven miles of that great public improvement, the National Road,
leading through the heart of the Western States, we think we
are authorized to affirm that the broad territory of our country
furnishes but few localities more favorable for an experiment in
Association, than that which has been secured by the American
Phalanx.
"From eighty to one hundred laborers are expected to be upon the
ground early in the spring, and it is hoped that in the fall a
magnificent edifice or Phalanstery, on Fourier's plan, will be
commenced, and will progress rapidly, until it shall be of
sufficient extent to accommodate one hundred families.
"Our object can not be more intelligibly explained than by
stating that it is proposed to organize an industrial army,
which, instead of ravaging and desolating the earth, like the
armies of civilization, shall clothe it luxuriantly and
beautifully with supplies for human wants; to distribute this
army into platoons, companies, battalions, regiments, in which
promotion and rewards shall depend, not upon success in
spreading ruin and woe, but upon energy and efficiency in
diffusing comfort and happiness; in short, to invest labor the
creator, with the dignity which has so long impiously crowned
labor the destroyer and the murderer, so that men shall vie with
each other, not in devastation and carnage, but in usefulness to
the race."
Applicants for admission or stock were referred to E.P. Grant, A.
Brisbane, H. Greeley and others.
[From the _Phalanx_, February 5, 1844.]
"E.P. Grant, Esq., of Canton, Ohio, a gentleman of high
standing, superior talents, and indefatigable energy, who is at
the head of the movement to establish the American Phalanx,
which is to be located on the banks of the beautiful Ohio,
informs us by letter, that 'the prospect is truly cheering;
even that greatest of wants, capital, is likely to be abundantly
supplied. There will indeed be some deficiency during the
ensuing spring and summer; but the amount already pledged to be
paid by the end of the first year, is not, I think, less than
$40,000, and by the end of the second year, probably not less
than $100,000; and these amounts, from present appearances, can
be almost indefinitely increased. Besides, the proposed
associates are devoted and determined, resenting the intimation
of possible failure, as a reflection unworthy of their zeal.'"
[From the _Phalanx_, March 1, 1844.]
"The Ohio Phalanx (heretofore called the American), is now
definitely constituted, and the first pioneers are already upon
the domain. More will follow in a few days to assist in making
preliminary preparations. A larger company will be added in
March, and by the end of May the Phalanx is expected to consist
of 120 resident members, of whom the greater part will be adult
males. They will be received from time to time as rapidly as
temporary accommodations can be provided. The prospects of the
Phalanx are cheering beyond the most sanguine anticipations of
its friends.
E.P. GRANT."
[From the _Phalanx_, July 13, 1844.]
"Our friends of the Ohio Phalanx appear to have celebrated the
Fourth of July with much hilarity and enthusiasm. About ten
o'clock the members of the Association with their guests, were
seated beneath the shade of spreading trees, near the dwelling;
when Mr. Grant, the President, announced briefly the object of
the assemblage and the order to be observed, which was, first,
prayer by Dr. Rawson, then an address by Mr. Van Amringe, in
which the present condition of society, its inevitable
tendencies and results, were contrasted with the social system
as delineated by Fourier. It is not doing full justice to the
orator to say merely that his address was interesting and able.
It was lucid, cogent, religious and highly impressive. This
portion of the festival was closed by prayer and benediction by
Rev. J.P. Stewart, and adjournment for dinner. After a good and
plentiful repast, the social party resumed their seats for the
purpose of hearing (rather than drinking) toasts and whatsoever
might be said thereupon."
The topics of the regular toasts were, _The day we celebrate_; _The
memory of Fourier_; _The Associationists of Pittsburg_; and so on
through a long string. The volunteer toasters liberally complimented
each other and the socialistic leaders generally, not forgetting
Horace Greeley. Somebody in the name of the Phalanx gave the
following:
"_The Bible_, the book of languages, the book of ideas, the book of
life. May its pages be the delight of Associationists, and its
precepts practiced by the whole world."
Our next quotation hints that something like a dissolution and
reorganization had taken place.
[From the _Phalanx_, May 3, 1845.]
"We notice in a recent number of the _Pittsburg Chronicle_, an
article from the pen of James D. Thornburg, on the present
condition of the Ohio Phalanx, from which it appears that the
report of its failure which has gone the rounds of the papers,
is premature; and that although it has suffered embarrassment
and difficulties from various causes, it is still in operation
under new arrangements that authorize the hope of its ultimate
success. We know nothing of the internal obstacles of which Mr.
Thornburg speaks, and have no means of forming an opinion on the
merits of the questions which, it would seem, have given rise to
divided counsels and inefficient action. For the founder of the
Ohio Phalanx, E.P. Grant, we cherish the most unqualified
respect, believing him to be fitted as few men are, by his
talents, energy and scientific knowledge, for the station of
leader of the great enterprise, which demands no less courage
and practical vigor, than wisdom and magnanimity.
"We learn from Mr. Thornburg's statement that to those who chose
to leave the Phalanx, it was proposed to give thirty-three per
cent. on their investments, which is all they could be entitled
to, in case of a forfeiture of the title to the domain, in which
case all the improvements, buildings, crops in ground, etc.,
would be a total loss to the members. But there is no
depreciation in the stock, when these improvements are
estimated. The rent has been reduced to one-half the former
amount. The proprietor is expected to furnish a large number of
sheep, the profits of which, it is believed, will be nearly or
quite sufficient to pay the rent. At the end of two years,
$30,000 in bonds, mortgages, etc., is to be raised, for which
the Phalanx will receive a fee-simple title to the domain. A
large share of the balance will be invested in stock, and
whatever may remain will be apportioned in payments at two and
a-half per cent. interest, and fixed at a date so remote that no
difficulty will result. There are buildings on the domain
sufficient for the accommodation of forty families, in addition
to a number of rooms suitable for single persons. The movable
property on the domain is at present worth three thousand
dollars.
"In view of all the facts in the case, as set forth by Mr.
Thornburg, we see no reason to dissent from the conclusion which
he unhesitatingly expresses, that the future success of the
Phalanx is certain. We trust that we have not been inspired with
too flattering hopes by the earnestness of our wishes. For we
acknowledge that we have always regarded the magnificent
material resources of this Phalanx with the brightest
anticipations; we have looked to it with confiding trust, for
the commencement of a model Association; and we can not now
permit ourselves to believe that any disastrous circumstance
will prevent the realization of the high hopes which prompted
its founders to engage in their glorious enterprise.
"The causes of difficulty in the Ohio Phalanx, as stated in the
article before us, are as follows: Want of experience; too much
enthusiasm; unproductive members; want of means. These causes
must always produce difficulty and discouragement; and at the
same time, can scarcely be avoided in the commencement of every
attempt at Association.
"The harmonies of the combined order are not to be arrived at in
a day or a year. Even with the noblest intentions, great
mistakes in the beginning are inevitable, and many obstacles of
a formidable character are incident to the very nature of the
undertaking. A want of sufficient means must cripple the most
strenuous industry. Ample capital is essential for a complete
organization, for the necessary machinery and fixtures, for the
ordinary conveniences, to say nothing of the elegancies of the
household order; and this in the commencement can scarcely ever
be obtained. Restriction, retrenchment, more or less confusion,
are the necessary consequences; and these in their turn beget a
spirit of impatience and discontent in all but the heroic; and
few men are heroes. The transition from the compulsory industry
of civilization to the voluntary, but not yet attractive,
industry of Association, is not favorable to the highest
industrial effects. Men who have been accustomed to shirk labor
under the feeling that they had poor pay for hard work, will not
be transformed suddenly into kings of industry by the atmosphere
of a Phalanx. There will be more or less loafing, a good deal of
exertion unwisely applied, a certain waste of strength in random
and unsystematic efforts, and a want of the business-like
precision and force which makes every blow tell, and tell in the
right place. Under these circumstances many will grow uneasy, at
length become discouraged, and perhaps prove false to their
early love. But all these, we are fully persuaded, are merely
temporary evils. They will soon pass away. They are like the
thin mists of the valley, which precede, but do not prevent, the
rising of the sun. The principles of Association are founded on
the eternal laws of justice and truth; they present the only
remedy for the appalling confusion and discord of the present
social state; they are capable of being carried into practice by
just such men and women as we daily meet in the usual walks of
life; and as firmly as we believe in a Universal Providence, so
sure we are that their practical accomplishment is destined to
bless humanity with ages of abundance, harmony, and joy,
surpassing the most enthusiastic dream."
[Editorial in the _Harbinger_, June, 14, 1845.]
"We learn from a personal interview with Mr. Thornburg, whose
letter on the Ohio Phalanx was alluded to in a recent number of
the _Phalanx_, that the affairs of that Association wear a very
promising aspect, and that there can be no reasonable doubt of
its success. He gives a very favorable description of the soil
and general resources of the domain, and from all that we have
learned of its character, we believe there are few localities at
the West better adapted for the purposes of an experimental
Association on a large scale. We sincerely hope that our friends
in that vicinity will concentrate their efforts on the Ohio
Phalanx, and not attempt to multiply Associations, which,
without abundant capital and devoted and experienced men, will,
almost to a certainty, prove unsuccessful. The true policy for
all friends of Associative movements, is to combine their
resources, and give an example of a well-organized Phalanx, in
complete and harmonic operation. This will do more for the cause
than any announcement of theories, however sound and eloquent,
or ten thousand abortive attempts begun in enthusiasm and
forsaken in despair."
[From the correspondence of the _Harbinger_, July 19, 1845,
announcing the final dissolution.]
"On the 24th of June last, the Ohio Phalanx again dissolved. The
reason is the want of funds. Since the former dissolution they
have obtained no accession of numbers or capital worth
considering. The members, I presume, will now disperse. They all
retain, I believe, their sentiments in favor of Association; but
they have not the means to go on."
Macdonald contributes the following summary, to close the account:
[From the Journal of a Resident Member of the Ohio Phalanx.]
"At the commencement of the experiment there was general
good-humor among the members. There seemed to be plenty of
means, and there was much profusion and waste. There was no
visible organization according to Fourier, most of the members
being inexperienced in Association. They were too much crowded
together, had no school nor reading-room, and the younger
members, as might be expected, were at first somewhat unruly.
The character of the Association had more of a sedate and
religious tone, than a lively or social one. There was too much
discussion about Christian union, etc., and too little practical
industry and business talent. No weekly or monthly accounts were
rendered.
"About ten months after the commencement of the Association, a
partial scarcity of provisions took place, and other
difficulties occurred, which may in part be attributed to
neglect in keeping the accounts. At this juncture Mr. Van
Amringe started on a lecturing tour in aid of the Association;
and the Phalanx had a meeting at which Mr. Grant, who was then
regent, stated that between $7,000 and $8,000 had been expended
since they came together; but no accounts were shown giving the
particulars of this expenditure. From the difficult position in
which the Phalanx was placed, Mr. Grant advised the breaking-up
of the concern, which was agreed to, with two or three
dissentients. [This was probably the first dissolution, referred
to in a previous extract from the _Harbinger_.]
"On December 26 a new constitution was proposed which caused
much discontent and confusion; and with the commencement of 1845
more disagreements took place, some in relation to the social
amusements of the people, and some regarding the debts of the
Phalanx, the empty treasury, the depreciation of stock, Mr. Van
Amringe's possession of the lease of the property, and the bad
prospect there was for raising the interest upon the cost of the
domain, which was about $4,140, or six per cent. on $69,000, the
price of twenty-two hundred acres.
"On January 20th, 1845, another attempt at re-organization was
made by persons who had full confidence in the management of Mr.
Grant, and on February 28th still another re-organization was
considered. On March 10th a general meeting of the Phalanx took
place. Three constitutions were read, and the third (attributed,
I believe, to Mr. Van Amringe), was adopted by a majority of
one. After this there was a meeting of the minority, and the
constitution of Mr. Grant was adopted with some slight
alterations. Difficulties now took place between the two
parties, which led to a suit at law by one of the members
against the Ohio Phalanx. [These fluctuations remind us of the
experience of New Harmony in its last days.]
"In such manner did the Association progress until August 27,
1845, when it was whispered about, that the Phalanx was defunct,
although no notification to that effect was given to the
members. Colonel Shriver, who held the mortgage on the property,
took alarm at the state of affairs, and placed an agent on the
premises to look after his interests. This agent employed
persons to work the farm, and the members had to shift for
themselves as best they could. Col. S. proposed an assignment of
the whole property over to him, requiring entire possession by
the 1st of October. This was assented to, though the value of
the property was more than enough to cover every claim.
"On September 9th advertisements were issued for the public sale
of the whole property, and on the 17th of that month the sale
took place before two or three hundred persons. After this the
members dispersed, and the Ohio Phalanx was at an end. The lease
of the property had been made out in the name of Mr. Grant for
the Phalanx. It was afterward given up to him by Mr. Van
Amringe, who had possession of it, and by Mr. Grant was returned
to Colonel Shriver.
"Much space might be occupied in endeavoring to show the right
and the wrong of these parties and proceedings, which to the
reader would be quite unprofitable. The broad results we have
before us, viz., that certain supposed-to-be great and important
principles were tried in practice, and through a variety of
causes failed. The most important causes of failure were said to
be the deficiency of wealth, wisdom, and goodness; or if not
these, the fallacy of the principles."