6/27/2010:
On this date in 1884, Dakota Territory was in political turmoil. Corrupt governor Ordway was shooed out of office, and many candidates vied for his empty spot, but President Arthur appointed his personal friend, Col. Gilbert A. Pierce of Illinois, noting he was "not mixed up with any of the factions in the territory."
Pierce's appointment brought a mixed reaction. The Bismarck Tribune praised him as a "very bright man with popular manners...that he will make a governor that Dakota will be proud of." The Yankton Press and Dakotaian wrote: "GreatGodgoddlemity [God Almighty], who's Pierce?" but also added, "Nobody here is acquainted with Governor Pierce, but that does not modify popular satisfaction, as everybody agrees that he must be a better man than Ordway."
Sources:
The Bismarck Weekly Tribune, July 4, 1884