During the Civil War, fear of invasion from the north and of a Unionist uprising left the people of North Texas in constant dread. Reports of a "Peace Party" of Union sympathizers in Cooke and neighboring counties, believed sworn to destroy their government, kill their leaders, and bring in Federal troops, caused great alarm. Spies who joined the group uncovered its members and the details of its plans. Under the leadership of Colonels James Bourland, Daniel Montague, and others, citizens loyal to the Confederacy moved to destroy the organization, and on the morning of October 1, 1862, widespread arrests were made by authority of the people of Cooke County. Fears that "Peace Party" members would attempt a rescue brought troops and militia to Gainesville, where the prisoners were assembled, and hastened action by a citizens committee. At a meeting of Cooke County citizens, with Colonel W. C. Young presiding, it was unanimously resolved to establish a Citizens Court and have the chairman choose a committee to select a jury. Sixty-eight men were quickly brought before the court. Thirty-nine were found guilty of conspiracy and insurrection, sentenced, and immediately hanged. Three other prisoners who belonged to military units were granted trial by court martial at their request and were later hanged by its order. Two others broke from their guard and were shot and killed. During the unrest, the Texas Legislature appropriated $4,500 for rations and forage used by State troops there.