Entry by Orville Browning, May 16, 1860

Wednesday May 16 At 12 Meridian the Convention assembled at the wigwam near Lake Street bridge, and were called to order by Gov Morgan of New York, who is Chairman of the National Central Committee. David Wilmot of Pa: was appointed temporary Chairman. He is a dull, chuckel headed, booby looking man, and makes a very poor presiding officer. After appointing Committees with a view to permanent organization adjourned till 5 P. M. at which time we again assembled, when Mr. Ashman was elected President of the Convention. I was designated by our delegation as Vice President for Illinois, but declined, and Judge Davis was appointed in my place. After appointing some additional Committees we adjourned till 10 O’clock tomorrow morning.