Provisional Enrolled Missouri Militia facts for kids
The Provisional Enrolled Missouri Militia (PEMM) was a special group of soldiers in Missouri during the American Civil War. It was also known as the Detailed Militia. This group was part of Missouri's Union government and was different from other militias because its soldiers worked full-time.
Why the PEMM Was Created
The Provisional Enrolled Missouri Militia was formed in 1863 by Missouri Governor Hamilton Rowan Gamble. Before this, Missouri had another group called the Enrolled Missouri Militia (EMM). However, the EMM was not very effective because some of its members had mixed feelings about the war, and they only served part-time.
Governor Gamble needed a stronger, more reliable force to fight against guerrilla fighters, who were small groups of soldiers fighting independently. So, he chose loyal Union supporters from the EMM regiments. These chosen soldiers formed the new PEMM. The state of Missouri paid these new regiments, and the Federal government provided their equipment and supplies.
What the PEMM Did
The Provisional Enrolled Missouri Militia started forming in May 1863. These regiments had a short but important role. They mostly fought against guerrilla groups and protected local areas. For example, some PEMM regiments helped to stop Shelby's Raid in 1863, which was a major attack by Confederate forces.
Even though the PEMM soldiers were loyal to the Union, many of them had different political ideas than Governor Gamble. To avoid political problems, the governor decided to disband most of the PEMM regiments in November 1863.
Like soldiers in the Missouri State Militia Cavalry, PEMM soldiers were later able to receive federal pensions. This meant they could get regular payments from the government after their service.
