Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly vol. 9.djvu/63



After organization was decided upon, there was still some difference of opinion among its champions. Some were for complete independence of both the United States and Great Britain, and a permanent government, others for a provisional government until such a time as the United States should extend her authority over the Oregon country. The final decision went for provisional government, and a committee was appointed to draw up a constitution to be submitted to the people at Champoeg, July 5, 1843. This committee holds an important place in Oregon history. Unlearned, the most of them, they were honest and sincere, and struggling for the best interest of the commonwealth with which they had cast their lot.

The legislative committee held sessions the 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th of May; the 27th and 28th of June. They deliber ated with "open doors" in an unoccupied barn. A commit tee of three prepared rules for business. Committees were appointed on ways and means, judiciary, military affairs, land claims, and district divisions.

July 5, 1843, the people again assembled. The civil officers elected in May were sworn in upon an oath drafted by a special committee.

The report of the legislative committee was submitted. The preamble read: "We, the people of Oregon Territory, for the purpose of mutual protection and to secure peace and prosperity among ourselves, agree to adopt the following laws until such time as the United States of America extend their jurisdiction over us." The Ordinance of 1787 had been