SOUTHERN WAYSIDE
HOMES, SOLDIERS' HOMES,
AND SOLDIERS' RESTS
Note: Includes articles about organized sites for
feeding and sometimes housing transient soldiers. They may or may not
include medical services, but are not considered regular hospitals. This
does not include women who regularly brought food to passing trains.
CHARLESTON MERCURY, January 4, 1862, p. 2, c. 2
Charleston Wayside Hospital and Soldiers' Depot.
Every train will bring large numbers of soldiers hungry, fatigued, and
many perhaps sick and faint. Refreshments
are essential immediately upon their arrival.
Our City Council has appointed the undersigned a Committee to attend to
this matter. The new building
erected as a depot for the South Carolina Railroad Company, has been kindly
given up for the reception of the soldiers, and ample accommodations prepared
for the sick and disabled.
We want cooks, waiters, nurses, fuel, hospital stores, &c., &c.
Our citizens, we are assured, will immediately come to our aid.
All communications should be addressed to Prof. F. S. Holmes, the
Superintendent, at his residence, corner of Calhoun and St. Philip streets, or
at the depot of the South Carolina Railroad.
H. R. Banks,
}
F.
S. Holmes,
} Committee.
J. S. Riggs,
}
CHARLESTON MERCURY, October 16, 1862, p. 1, c. 5
Soldiers' Rest at Greenville, S. C.
The Ladies' Aid Association, of Greenville, has been, in proportion to
its means, one of the most efficient in the State.
Rising two thousand dollars have been given and expended since its
formation, and an untiring industry displayed in making garments for the
soldiers. It was organized July
19th, 1861, and has carried through its objects with quiet energy, distributing
money, clothing and provisions in every available channel.
After sending large supplies, from time to time, to Virginia and other
places, it was thought expedient to study the wants of our soldiers here, and,
with this view, a Wayside Table was furnished, in the summer, at the Station.
This was bountifully supplied, and regularly attended by the ladies, who
would cheerfully have continued their pleasant duty, but it was ascertained from
the soldiers themselves that the liberal supply at Greenwood rendered Greenville
refreshments superfluous.
In view of expected attacks on our seacoast, where so many of our
mountaineers are stationed, who may be returned sick or wounded, the
Association, within the last month, have established a Soldiers' Rest,
superintended by the Lady Directors in person.
Already twenty sick or weary soldiers have found food and lodging on
their homeward way, and some who were destitute of means have been assisted to
pay travelling [sic] expenses. The
Soldiers' Rest is pleasantly situated on College, near Buncombe street, and a
conveyance is provided by the Association to convey the sick from the cars to
the spot.
Greenville
being the terminus of the railroad, travellers [sic] are subject to delay; under
these circumstances, the ladies are desirous that no sick, or wounded, or
indigent soldier, who requires aid, may pass to his home without a helping hand
being extended to him, gratefully remembering that our armies are giving the
strength of their manhood to protect the women and children of the Confederacy.
A Refugee.
Greenville, S. C., October 4.
SOUTHERN BANNER [ATHENS, GA], October 29, 1862, p. 3, c. 1
Way-Side Home for Soldiers at Union Point.
Our readers are already informed
of the existence of the home for soldiers at Union Point.
While at that place the other day we had an opportunity of witnessing its
practical workings. Hundreds of sick and wounded soldiers are relieved and sent
on their way blessing the patriotic and Christian ladies that "minister
unto them."
In connexion [sic] with this, we will mention that during the past week,
Miss Asenath M. Dorsey, and Mrs. Anna Gallaway, have raised in Athens, the
handsome sum of five hundred dollars for the wayside home.
These ladies deserve great credit for the zeal they have exhibited in
this matter, and have set an example which others might well imitate.
Our ladies generally have done much in aid of the cause, and we hope they
will continue in the good work.
MOBILE REGISTER AND ADVERTISER, November 5, 1862, p. 2, c.
2
Messrs. Editors: It is a
beautiful September night. The moon
rises majestically above the tree tops, and one by one her myriads of attendant
stars appear. The sentimental of
both sexes gaze with delight through the open car windows out upon the
ever-shifting scene, ever-shifting all but that resplendent sky. A soldier whom four days subsequent travel has wearied to
slumber reclines upon one of those comfortable seats for which the Georgia
Railroad is so famed. The whistle
for brakes is heard, the cars stop, a man puts his head in at the door and calls
"Union Point." The head
is withdrawn, and there succeeds the beautiful profile of a Georgia fair one,
followed by another and another. The
profile approaches the sleeping soldier, a charming form bends over him, a small
white hand gives his shoulder a gentle shake.
The sleepy eyes unclose, look up, and Mars springs to his feet with a
"Yes, Miss, take my seat." "Will
you walk out and take some supper?" says sweet sixteen, smiling.
"With pleasure," and La Belle leads forth her willing captive.
A few steps and they enter the supper room, where Mars merges into
Epicurus, as he seats him at a table groaning under its weight of chicken, ham,
eggs, butter, rolls, biscuit, muffin, sweet and butter milk, coffee, &c.
A knife and fork are seized and add their clatter to that of those
wielded by a score of other soldiers. The
fair forms of Mrs. Dr. B. Carlton, Mrs. Dr. Moore, Mrs. J. B. Hart, Mrs. John
Carlton, Mrs. Young, Mrs. Deal, Mrs. F. Carlton, Mrs. Watson, Mrs. Dilworth,
Mrs. Printup, Mrs. Bynum, Mrs. Crosby, Miss Julia Grayson, Miss Jennie Bowls,
Miss Lizzie O'Neil, Miss Fanny Deal, Miss Jennie Hart and Miss Mattie Haughton
flit around the board, ministering angels that they were.
With a "God bless you, ladies!" the young soldier left them,
and never once will he forget the "Wayside Hospital" at Union Point,
Green county, Georgia. And he takes
this method of informing the traveling community of soldiers that here, upon the
arrival of every train, are the choicest viands, prepared by the patriotic fair
of the Empire State.
North Carolina.
Messrs. Editors: I was
requested by the ladies having charge of the above enterprise to call the
attention of traveling soldiers to their Hospital in the Mobile papers.
I select yours as having the widest circulation.
The kindness shown your correspondent, as narrated above, was
inexpressibly gratifying to one who was for the first time south of the Palmetto
State, and he sincerely trusts you will publish the only return he can make
them.
Very respectfully, your ob't ser'vt,
________ ________
Lt. Corps of Artillery, C.S.A.
Oven Bluff, Oct. 27th, 1862.
NASHVILLE DAILY UNION, December 13, 1862, p. 3, c. 2
Kentucky Sanitary Commission.
We find in a late number of the Louisville Democrat a very interesting
report from the Kentucky branch of the United States Sanitary Commission, which
will be read with pleasure by thousands of our soldiers at this place, as well
as by others who take an interest in the soldier's welfare.
The members of the Commission are indefatigable and enthusiastic in their
noble work, and their praises are on the lips of multitudes in the land.
Rooms of Kentucky Branch Union
}
States Sanitary Commission,
}
Fifth Street, near Main,
}
Louisville Kentucky.
}
Messrs.
Editors: As the operations of this
Commission have assumed considerable magnitude, it has been thought that its
patrons and friends should be able to find in the public prints occasional
statements of the condition and actual workings of the enterprise, with such
abstracts of the minutes of the weekly business meetings as would be of general
interest.
Members of U. S. Sanitary Commission,
Kentucky Branch.
T. S. Bell, M. D., President
Geo. D. Prentice,
Rev. J. H. Haywood, V. Pres't. R. C. Hewett,
M. D.
L. A. Civill, Rec. Sec.
W. B. Belknap,
Arthur Peter, Treas.
Joseph
Holt,
J. F. Speed,
R. J. Menifee.
In
addition to the more generally known direction given to the labors of this
Commission, it has had the exclusive care of the "Soldiers' Home,"
providing for its weekly expenses, etc.; and now, with the co-operation and
assistance of Dr. Newberry, the accomplished and efficient official
representative in the West of the United States Sanitary commission, it has the
pleasure to announce that a more suitable building for the "Home" will
be immediately constructed, and in a more eligible location than the present
one, where greatly increased facilities will be secured for promoting the
comfort and well-being of the inmates.
In
response to a request from the Commission at Washington City, a female delegate
was sent to the "Council of Ladies," to confer with officers of that
Commission in reference to securing needed supplies for our sick and wounded
soldiers, commencing November 22, 1862. Extracts
from the printed report of that "Council" will probably be offered to
you hereafter for publication.
Major
Will C. Moreau has recently been employed by this Commission to canvass for
Sanitary supplies. One of the
results of his first trip was a contribution (through the influence of one of
the Committees of the Cincinnati Branch,) of twenty-three boxes and three
barrels of Sanitary stores.
You
have already published the sum of $325, as the proceeds of the concert recently
given by the Anderson Troop, for the benefit of our treasury.
The promise of other entertainments, for the same good object, has also
been made.
An
item of interest at the last meeting, was the appointment of a committee to
investigate the claims of a superior knitting machine—from which great results
are expected.
Report of "Soldiers' Home."
Soldiers received during three weeks, ending December 1, 1862, 253.
These
men averaged five meals each—making total number of meals 1,265.
In
addition to these, Mr. Maloan reports that three families of Tennessee refugees,
who had been deprived of all things except their seven children, were provided
with a supper, lodging and breakfast, and transportation to the ferry, on their
way to Indiana.
Timely
aid has been rendered by Mr. M., to several sick men, in procuring their pay,
and securing transportation.
The
following is a memorandum of Sanitary stores sent by the Kentucky Branch, United
States Sanitary Commission, Louisville, to the sick and wounded soldiers at
Perryville, Danville, Harrodsburg and Lebanon, from October 11th to November
11th.
One thousand one hundred and thirty-two comforts and blankets, 821 bed
ticks, 486 pillows, 352 pillow cases, 25 pillow ticks, 2,210 sheets, 2,262
shirts, 2,341 pairs drawers, 725 handkerchiefs, 1,462 towels, 324 coats, 12
vests, 89 pairs pants, 191 pairs socks, 80 cushions, 6 pairs slippers, 1,397
lbs. bandages, 525 abdominal bandages and pads, 72 pin cushions, 1,167 lbs rags
and lint, 32 dressing gowns, 2 bolts calico, 1 bolt jeans, 20 eye shades, 61
pairs crutches, 20 canes, 260 cans fruit, 1,628 lbs dried fruit, 1,073 lbs.
butter, 40 lbs. cheese, 160 lbs. crackers, 234 lbs. groceries, 130 lbs. farina,
121 ˝ lbs tea, 575 lbs. white sugar, 40 lbs ground flax seed, 50 lbs rice, 72
lbs. chocolate, 111 lbs. dried beef, 150 lbs canvassed hams, 675 bottles liquor,
wine and cordials, 16 bushels green apples, 103 bushels Irish potatoes, 21
bushels onions, 2 bushels sweet potatoes, 320 loaves bread, 157 fowls, 4 kegs
pickles, 2 kegs syrups, 3 boxes lemons, 50 lbs. chewing tobacco, 1 box ink, 298
dozen eggs, 1 kit mackerel, 5 hhds. ice, 40 sponges, 39 lbs corn starch, 43
packs envelopes, 45 quires paper, 1 box sardines, 69 lbs. Castile soap, 400 lbs.
German soap, 200 lbs. candles, 120 cans concentrated milk, 99 cans beef tea, 287
books, magazines and papers, 1 gross matches, 36 medicine cups, 2 boxes
medicines, 18 pairs mittens, 81 combs, 24 buckets, 100 tin plates, 100 tin cups,
34 wash bowls, 24 spittoons, 12 brooms, 5 coffee pots, 6 lanterns, 6 cotton
mops, 12 chambers, and 2 boxes tin ware.
At the
rooms on Fifth street, the Commission has a commodious and comfortable office,
where those having business with it can find, during business hours, Mr. John
Patterson, the book-keeper, or some one or more of the members, and to which the
soldier's friend, male or female, whether resident of, or visiting the city, is
cordially invited.
L. A. Civill,
Recording Secretary.
SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY [ATLANTA, GA], January 15, 1863, p. 4,
c. 1 [Summary: List of ladies
"appointed to cook for "Soldiers Rest," for the week beginning
January 12th, 1863" (day by day); "appointed to Visit the Soldiers'
Rest, Daily,", "Appointed to Stay at the Wayside Hospital;"
"appointed to prepare food for the wounded soldiers who are arriving daily
from Murfreesboro, commencing January 4th, 1863;" "appointed to visit
Soldier's Rest daily, by Hospital Association, commencing 13th January."]
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, March 7, 1863, p. 2, c. 3
Savannah Wayside
Home
(Late the Pavilion Hotel,)
Under the Direction of the Georgia
Relief Hospital Association,
Is now open, in charge of the Ladies of Savannah, for the
accommodation of Soldiers, when passing through the city.
An ambulance will be in attendance on the arrival of the railway trains.
All Soldiers, whether Georgians or not, traveling on furlough, either
home or to camp, are welcome to the care and comforts of this Wayside Home.
Donations, in money or provisions are solicited from the patriotic and
benevolent.
SOUTHERN CONFEDERACY [ATLANTA, GA], March 24, 1863, p. 2, c. 3
Atlanta Correspondence of the Charleston Courier.
Atlanta, Ga., March 7, 1863.
I scarcely know how to commence a letter from this busiest of all busy
cities of railroads, whence countless iron tracks branch from and connect with
all parts of our glorious young Confederacy. .. . . Near the spacious Car Shed,
at the suggestion of Gen. Johnston, a fine "Soldiers' Rest" has been
erected. It is built of wood, in a
circle, with neat little beds arranged around; and here, instead of lying on the
floor of the Car Shed as formerly, the sick soldiers are removed immediately on
their arrival, to await distribution to the different hospitals, of which there
are a great many in successful operation, containing now only 1,400 sick and
wounded, a considerable decrease from the immense crowds of a month ago. . . .
Aliene.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, May 4, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
Theatre—An entirely new play, of the patriotic type, from the pen of
Mr. Hewitt, will be presented to-night. Those
who have read it in manuscript speak very highly of its merits.
The leading parts will be sustained by Miss Fanny, Master James and
Master Andrew.
A new son, entitled "All is quiet along the Savannah to-night,"
the words by Miss Sinclair, and music by Mr. Koenigsburg, will be sung by Miss
Laura. The entertainment will, no
doubt, draw a full house.
It will be seen that Mr. Waldron, whilst putting money in his own purse,
is not unmindful of other objects which have claims on all who are able to aid
them. He has set apart to-morrow
(Tuesday) night for the benefit in behalf of the Savannah Wayside Home, an
institution which is doing much for the relief and comfort of our traveling
soldiers. Let our citizens see to
it that not a vacant seat or standing place is left in the house.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, May 26, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
Millen Wayside Home.--The ladies of Burke county have completed their
beautiful and patriotic arrangements at Millen, and are now dispensing their
hospitality daily to large numbers of traveling soldiers.
We dropped in a few evenings since and found a well supplied table and
every comfort prepared for our brave defenders, the gentle hands that provided
these benefactions rendering them doubly acceptable.
We wish them every success in their praiseworthy undertaking, and as they
rely on contributions and their own means alone for the support of their
"Home," we hope the public will deal liberally with them.
Will not the friends of the soldier in Savannah lend them a helping hand?
We feel assured they are so disposed, and we would add that, to save them
trouble, all contributions left at this office will be promptly acknowledged and
forwarded.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, June 10, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
Lecture To
Night.—By a sudden withdrawal of a portion of our troops from this vicinity,
families in many instances have been left in very destitute circumstances.
This coming to the knowledge of the lady managers of the Wayside Home,
they are endeavoring to relieve them. To
aid them in this good work, the Hon. H. R. Jackson will deliver a lecture
to-night in the Masonic Hall, to commence at 8 o'clock—the proceeds of which
to be applied to further their laudable undertaking.
The subject of the Lecture will be:
"The radical and fatal defects in the civilization of the United
States of America."
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, July 18, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
Wayside Hospital.
We, the ladies of Harrison county, desirous of establishing a wayside
Hospital at this place, do most urgently entreat all who feel an interest in our
sick and wounded soldiers to aid us by sending [illegible] and every thing
necessary for a hospital, such as Tea, Rice, Medicines, Wine, Brandy, &c.
Look for further particulars next week.
Mrs. Burress, Matron.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, July 24, 1863, p. 1, c. 2
Soldiers' Home at Brenham.
Brenham, Texas, July 16, 1863.
Editor
Telegraph:--The County Court of Washington County, aided by contributions from
the citizens of the county, and by funds raised by a "Misses' Fair,"
recently held in this place, have established here a Soldiers' Home, for the
benefit of all sick and wounded soldiers, returning from or to their commands,
and all other soldiers who may be in need of assistance, where they can have
board, lodging, medical and surgical attention free of charge.
It is placed under care of a lady resident in the house, who will see to
it that her table, beds, &c., shall be comfortable, and is under the
superintendence and direction of an experienced and skillful physician.
Will
not all the papers and conductors on railroads, give publicity to this, that
such as need care and attention traveling this way may know where they will
obtain it, rendered most cheerfully and heartily.
J.
B.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, September 1, 1863, p. 2, c. 1
We are glad to see that in several parts of the State efforts are being made by
the ladies to establish Wayside Hospitals for the accommodation of sick soldiers
who may be passing through their neighborhood.--This is a most praiseworthy
undertaking, as many, when on their way to their homes require the attention of
nurses and such treatment as cannot be had in hotels or private houses.
We notice meetings have been held in Houston, Rusk, and several other
counties for this purpose, and as we learn one of our hotels will close shortly
in this city, we feel assured the ladies of Travis will not be behind those of
other counties in this work of charity and benevolence.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, September 11, 1863, p. 2, c. 5
Madame Teresa,
The Lecture to have been given on Thursday Evening, Sept.
10, 1863, at Masonic Hall, by this distinguished lady, the daughter of Sir James
Tate, and grand-daughter of Lady Elizabeth Appleby of Yorkshire, is postponed
until Monday Evening next, the 14th inst.
Subject of the Lecture—The War.
Admittance, $1. Tickets can
be procured at the Pulaski House, Scriven House, Marshall House, and at the door
of the Hall.
The proceeds of the Lecture will be placed in the hands of the Ladies in
charge of the Wayside Home in this city, for the benefit of said institution.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, November 5, 1863, p. 2, c. 2
Savannah Wayside Home.
This admirable institution was opened on the 6th of March, 1863, since
which time it has dispensed its benefits to 5,136 soldiers.
It received in the commencement $700 from the Georgia Hospital and Relief
Association, and since, in contributions from individuals and from lectures
pronounced in its behalf, $6025.
In consequence of its large number of beneficiaries since the battle at
Chickamauga, and the exhorbitant [sic] prices of articles of food, its funds are
nearly exhausted. Its Lady Managers
are satisfied that this simple announcement will summon to its relief and aid
the liberal contributions of those interested in this excellent and necessary
work.
Mrs. E. L. Campbell is Treasurer.
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, November 13, 1863, p. 1, c. 2
Covering for the Soldiers.
The constant demand for blankets for the soldiers, has induced the Lady
Managers of the Wayside Home to make arrangements for receiving any donations
which the citizens may feel disposed to make for the purpose. Persons wishing to give their carpets, to be made up into
blankets, are notified that they will be received by Capt. Hardee, at the Home.
If already made up, will be so much gained—but if this is not
convenient, the ladies will have them made a suitable size; and being desirous
to give the employment to the needy women, will be glad of any friends for
aiding the work.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, November 27, 1863, p. 2, c.
1
We had
the pleasure of a call yesterday from Mrs. Lancaster, of the Ranger, and her
accomplished little daughter, whose performance at the Soldiers' Home Concert
gained so much applause. Mrs. L. is
untiring in her efforts for the soldiers.
SOUTHERN BANNER [ATHENS, GA], December 16, 1863, p. 3, c. 5
A Military and Dress Ball
Will be given at the Lumpkin
House, Thursday evening, the 24th of December.
The proceeds to be given for the benefit of the Wayside Home.
Tickets of admission can be procured of Mr. C. S. Reese, at Long's Drug
Store, or of either of the undersigned committee.
Gentlemen wishing to obtain Ladies invitation tickets, can get them by
applying to the Committee of Invitations, at Long's Drug Store, every evening
between the hours of 4 and 5 o'clock.
Tickets of admission $10--Supper included.
W. N. Burrows,
}
Thos. Hall,
} Committee
W. H. Simms,
} of
J. Harper,
} Arrangements.
Chas. E. Stephens.
}
W. M. Rudolph.
}
Dec. 16.
MONTGOMERY WEEKLY ADVERTISER, December 30, 1863, p. 1, c. 5
[Communicated.]
The Women of the South.
[Summary: The
article starts with long general praise of the women of the South]
We have this day visited the "Soldiers' Home," of this city,
under the management of its patriotic women; and the comfort, the cleanliness
and good order which prevail throughout the establishment, give ample evidence
of the ability and constant attention bestowed upon it. We learned from the obliging clerk that on the first of June
last a change took place in the management of the Home, by which all the funds
then on hand were transferred to another hospital under government management.
Since the first of June the "Home" had expended (to the 1st of
December) for provisions, medicines, &c., $1,487, the greater part of which
are still on hand and there was on hand, on the first of December also, cash to
the amount of $8,543,10, all which had been accumulated out of the per diem
allowance made by the government to the sick and wounded soldiers.
It must not be supposed for a moment that the soldiers have been stinted
in anything needful for their comfort, in order to effect this saving! On the contrary, we hesitate not to affirm that in no
hospital in the confederacy are there more comforts or as many supplied to the
inmates. This gratifying result has
been produced by the liberal contributions extended to the managers of the Home
by the citizens and the faithful attention paid to their preservation and
distribution by the managers. We
take pleasure in recording these things, which redound so much to the devotion
of the ladies and the liberality of this community. We were furnished with the following resolutions, which were
unanimously adopted at the meeting of the Society, on Monday last, and which we
think deserve a place in your columns:
Resolved, That the thanks of this Society are eminently due, and hereby
tendered to Mrs. Bibb, for her untiring devotion and energy and perseverance as
President, and the cheerful, courteous and obliging manner in which she has
discharged the duties pertaining to her office; and it is the sincere desire of
the members of this Society that she would still retain her position.
Resolved, That to Mrs. Wm. Bell we return our sincere thanks for her
unremitting kindness and attention to the sick and wounded of the
"Home," her unceasing efforts to alleviate the sufferings of all, by
both kindness and liberality, have won our heartfelt admiration, and awakened
within us a desire to emulate her noble example.
We could say much more on this subject, but having made this
communication sufficiently long we close for the present.
A Traveler.
MONTGOMERY WEEKLY ADVERTISER, January 6, 1864, p. 1, c. 5
[Communicated.]
Christmas at the Soldiers' Home.
There was a jolly good time generally through Montgomery on Christmas
day. Everybody seemed to think a
duty to enjoy themselves upon that occasion.
"Hard times" were forgotten for the time being and good will
and plenty of good things, were every where to be seen.
The "Soldiers Home" was the scene of much pleasant enjoyment,
which it did one good to behold. Early
in the day the ladies of the society under whose management this admirable
institution has been established, began to assemble bringing with them large
contributions for the contemplated celebration.
The eyes of the soldiers sparkled, and their countenances beamed with
joyful anticipation of the coming feast. Soon
the clatter of merry voices were heard, and the drumming of spoons and forks
beating up the eggs for the Christmas beverage of EGG NOG, was delightful music
to the ears of the invalid soldiers who had not seen the shadow of such good
things since they left their homes. While
this busy note of preparation was going on the soldiers in the number of some
two hundred or more had collected together in the main hall of the building and
having improvised a band of ethiopian minstrels from their number entertained
themselves, and a crowd of visitors with songs and well executed airs upon the
violin, banjo and bones. Soon the
young ladies were seen bearing the foaming glasses of the luscious egg nog, and
distributing them to all the soldiers. Every
ward was visited and every invalid soldier had a gannymede to present him with a
cup of the true nectar—then came the preparations for dinner; and surely the
soldiers will long remember the sumptuous entertainment prepared for them by the
ladies of Montgomery. From ten
o'clock until two there were constant arrivals of roast turkeys, geese, ducks,
fowls, old and new hams, beef in all its varieties, roasted pigs, looking so
brown and crisp that they would have tempted an anchorite or dervish from his
faith; then the rich, yellow sweet potatoes dressed in various ways to please
the most fastidious tastes. After
all this came the pies and puddings of all rich and racey characters, and piles
of fragrant cakes, and sweet oranges, altogether presenting a scene of good
cheer, which surrounded as it was, by the smiling faces of women in their
loveliest character of ministering angel to the wants of humanity, has nothing
more lovely upon this chequered earth. The
dinner with all its enjoyment came to an end, and the well pleased soldiers
again assembled in the hall and the band of minstrels were once more introduced,
and renewed their pleasing entertainment. There
was a large number of visitors during the day, and particularly during the
performance of the minstrels. At
the close of the evening performances, Mr. B. H. Richardson, of Baltimore, being
present, in response to a call from the company, made a few brief and
appropriate remarks which were well received by the audience. We noticed amongst the active ladies of the occasion Mrs.
Judge Bibb, Mrs. Crawford Bibb and Mrs. George Bibb, Mrs. and Miss Bell, Mrs.
Reese, Miss Chisholm and many others whom we had not the pleasure of knowing.
This occasion will not soon be forgotten by the soldiers.
Its moral effect upon their minds and its beneficial effects upon their
health cannot easily be estimated. The
soldier who finds such appreciating friends at home will remember it upon the
battlefield, and his arm will be nerved with new power when he knows that he is
not only battling for political and social liberty, but that the smiles and the
approval of God's last best gift to man is to be his sure reward. All honor, say we, to the noble and liberal women of
Montgomery, and may their own homes ever be brightened by the smile of love and
the sunshine of prosperity.
ALBANY [GA] PATRIOT, January 21, 1864, p. 3, c. 1
Wayside Home.
The ladies managing the Macon
Wayside Home have appointed me Chairman of the committee to procure provisions
for them. They are in great
need, as upon a daily average seventy five to one hundred soldiers, who are
unable to pay $4 00 per meal, are fed at the Home.
They are soldiers from Southwestern Georgia, and all parts of the
country. The citizens of Macon have
liberally sustained the home from its beginning, at great expense, and yet the
responsibility rests equally upon the people all over the country, as their own
neighbors are befitted. I hope all
who can donate small quantities of butter, lard, pork, meal, peas or chickens,
will [fold] remember the poor war-worn soldier, as he returns to his home from
the battle field. Those who wish to
contribute to the Home, will deliver their contributions to J. M. Cooper,
Albany, who will receive them, and take a list of the names of contributors.
For Mitchell county the produce can be delivered to me on my plantation,
and I will haul it to Albany and forward to Macon.
Let all remember the Wayside Home.
J. W. Fears,
Chairman.
MOBILE REGISTER AND ADVERTISER, May 5, 1864, p. 2, c, 3
Letter from
Montgomery.
The Hospitals of Montgomery—The Soldier's Home,
or Ladies' Hospital—Stonewall Hospital—Madison
Hospital—St. Mary's Hospital—Concert Hall—
Wayside Home, &c., &c.
Montgomery, April 30, 1864.
I took a stroll this morning among the Hospitals of this city, and
thought a general sketch of their whereabouts and condition, with their general
capacity, might not be entirely uninteresting at this time.
The Soldiers' Home, under the management of the ladies of Montgomery,
with Mrs. Judge B. S. Bibb as President, is one of the very best conducted
institutions of the kind in the Confederacy.
It was the first established in this city, and has ever been deservedly
popular among the sick and wounded soldiers.
For a considerable time it was supported entirely by the voluntary
contributions of the citizens, and has had at one time within its enclosure over
four hundred patients. The
unwearied care and skillful attention of surgeons and nurses have resulted in
the restoration to health and service of a very large number of soldiers, who
would, under ordinary circumstances, have died or been disabled.—There are
this day but 145 patients in this institution, some fifty having been returned
to the army during the last week.
To show the comparative state of the several Hospitals here, I submit the
following brief statement:
Ladies' Hospital—Patients, 145; cooks, 5; nurses, 14; matrons, 4;
laundresses, 7; surgeons, 3.
Stonewall Hospital—Patients, 81; cooks, 10; nurses 13; matrons, 4;
laundresses, 13; surgeons, 4.
Madison Hospital—Patients, 77; cooks, 6; nurses, 23; matron, 1; ward
masters, 2; laundresses, 6; surgeons, 4.
St. Mary's Hospital—Patients, 112; cooks, 4; nurses, 26; matrons, 5;
laundresses, 7; surgeons, 4.
Total now in Hospitals—Patients, 415; cooks, 26; nurses, 76; matrons,
14; laundresses, 31; surgeons, 15.
In addition to these institutions, there is an establishment fitted up
for the reception of patients by the General Superintendent, Dr. J. W. Gentry,
and known as Concert Hall, which, in tome of need, can accommodate a respectable
number of patients. The capacity of
these united institutions will be little short of 2,000.
Besides these, there is the Wayside Home, where the weary and hungry
soldiers, as he passes through the city, can always find a wholesome meal and a
night's repose.
The liberality of the citizens, or, we might better say, their just
appreciation of the soldier, has been no where more strikingly manifested than
in the little city of Montgomery. The
citizens give of their means liberally, cheerfully and continuously.
They have not wearied in well doing.
And Montgomery has the honor of having first started a home for the
orphan children of our soldiers. Over
one hundred thousand dollars have been subscribed in this city for this noble
charity. May we not, in the language of the good book, say to every
other city, town and county, "Go ye and do likewise"?
SAVANNAH [GA] REPUBLICAN, May 23, 1864, p. 1, c. 5
The Savannah Wayside Home.
Mr. Editor: The friends of
the Wayside Home noticed with particular pleasure the handsome gift to it of
$1,000 by Capt. A. P. Wetter, as stated in the Republican a few days ago.
Such generous liberality may well excuse the publicity you have given it,
especially as it suggests to other wealthy and liberal men the like course of
conduct. This noble charity—the
Wayside Home—commends itself, both by its excellent objects and by the actual
good it has accomplished, by the steady support of the benevolent citizens of
Savannah and the State. Established
in March, 1863, it has from that time to the present offered a free home to the
furloughed soldier passing through the city.
No one with a proper claim has ever sought admittance in vain.
On some days as many as 250 have been entertained at its table.
In one week more than 1,500 received its hospitalities.
Food and lodgings for so many made heavy costs, and it need not surprise
the public to know that the total expenses of the Home, for the fourteen months
of its existence, have been about $30,000—half of which are for the last three
months. These are its money
expenses. But who can reckon its
cost in the labors and sacrifices of the noble women of Savannah, who originated
this charity, and whose daily task it has been to minister to the wants of their
brave defenders. The soldier
blesses them, and an approving conscience is their rich reward.
The
receipts of the Wayside Home have about equalled its expenses.
These have been partly private donations and partly the proceeds of
public lectures, concerts, &c. The
latter income has now entirely ceased, and the Home must depend in the coming
season for its support chiefly on private liberality.
Fortunately, its expenses are now
comparatively small, as but few soldiers are passing through the city, but its
funds, even at this reduced scale, need constant replenishing; and what shall be
done when the stream of travel again brings its crowd of furloughed soldiers?
This will soon set in when the spring campaigns are over, and the Wayside
Home must still keep open its hospitable portals to receive the weary and the
hungry. This will require vastly
more means than the Home has now at its command, and we trust the generous
citizens of Savannah, never weary in well doing, will not relax their efforts
now, and that new friends will arise to give of their abundance for the relief
of the needy soldier. The
Charleston Wayside Home has just received the munificent sum of Ten Thousand
Dollars, from the "Bee Steamship
Company," to supply its wants. Has
not our Home some good friend to make it the recipient of some like benefaction?
Whoever helps it in its need may rest assured he could have aided no
worthier charity than the
Savannah Wayside Home.
ALBANY [GA] PATRIOT, August 4, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
Albany Wayside Home--The citizens of this city have at last seen the necessity
for a Wayside Home; they have according established one, and placed it under the
superintendence of the Ladies' Battle-Field Relief Society.
This will certainly be welcome news to our readers in the country, who
may have friends or relatives in the army.
They will now have comfortable quarters, free of charge, when returning
home on furlough, or wounded from the battle-field.
Our lady citizens will exercise their utmost to make the Home everything
it should be, but they will have to be aided in the good work, otherwise their
efforts will be in vain.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, August 8, 1864, p. 1, c. 4
We have been shown
a letter from Beaumont to Rev. Mr. Castleton, stating that since he left that
town, a Soldiers' Home has been successfully organized in that place.
This is the beginning of the good work.
We expect soon to present our readers with a list of Soldiers' Homes, and
will keep it standing for the information of the public.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, August 8, 1864, p. 1, c. 5
Soldiers' Homes in Texas.
One in Houston, in charge of
Sergt.
C. A. Scales
One in Beaumont, in charge of
Wm. Fletcher.
One in Millican, in charge of
Wm. R. Ellis.
One in Rusk, in charge of
_____________
We hope our friends throughout the country will give us early information
of the establishment of Homes in their respective neighborhoods, that we may add
them to our permanent list, for the information of our soldiers.
They will also please give us the names of such persons as may be placed
in charge, and to whom application by the soldiers may be made.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, August 17, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
Independence, August 14th, 1864.
Ed. News:--Will you allow me to make a statement as to the condition of
affairs east of the Mississippi river, for the information of your many readers,
who are, to a great extent, cut off from all means of information.
And as I visited most of the troops, I can speak with certainty as to
their condition.
. . . I visited the hospitals [in Atlanta], and was gratified to find
they were so well kept; everything that can be done for the sick and wounded is
done, by both the army surgeons and the citizens, especially the ladies who are
as untiring in their devotion to the soldiers as they were when the war first
broke out. Nothing that will
contribute to the comfort of the sick and wounded is left undone.
On the route from Richmond, along the railroad, at every depot, I found
ladies with baskets of provisions for the soldiers, or else long tables set for
them, and in some instances, when citizens found it difficult to get something
to eat, the soldiers had more than they could eat.
All this kindness and devotion is not wasted—the soldiers are not
insensible to such kindness, and will never lay down their arms while the homes
of such women are in danger. I
found the feeling of the people to be hopeful and cheerful everywhere, the money
very day, strange as it may seem, in those districts that have been over run by
the enemy and where every thing was destroyed; for the Yankees left their trail
in fire and ruin; every village burnt, every cow, hog, sheep and chicken killed,
the horses and mules taken, and the provisions that could not be carried away
were burnt, yet among these people I found more kindness, patriotism and
liberality than in any other section. This
contrasts strangely with our people at home, for if they would only charge
Yankee batteries with half the unrelenting, savage ferocity that they charge
wounded, sick and furloughed soldiers coming home or returning to the army, my
deliberate opinion is that the Yankees wouldn't have a cannon left in their army
in a week.
And why it is in our State that there are not soldiers' homes all through
the country, I am at a loss to imagine. Texas
is overflowing with provisions, has never been invaded, (thanks to the
soldiers,) and our people have both the means and the time to do this much for
our soldiers, and it is their duty. It
is humiliating to think that a man who has returned wounded, a cripple for life,
should be charged a month's wages for a bed to sleep on and a little bread and
meat to eat. . . .
I visited Dr. Bryan's Hospital, at Auburn, where there are four hundred
sick and wounded soldiers. The Dr.
kindly showed me through the different wards, and even the kitchen. I found it far ahead of the other hospitals, and the people
of Texas ought to contribute liberally to that hospital, for it is for Texas
soldiers, and contributes greatly to the comfort of our unfortunate sick and
wounded. The ladies at and in the
vicinity of Auburn are doing all in their power to aid in taking care of our
men, and they deserve the thanks of our people for their devotion to our wounded
and sick soldiers. Dr. Bryan has
done his part nobly, and deserves the gratitude of our State.
I will not trespass upon your space any further, Mr. Editor, and hope you
will pardon me for sending so long a communication, but hope you can make room
for it for the information it will give those whose sons are in the armies east
of the river.
Respectfully,
Jno. R. Baylor.
MONTGOMERY WEEKLY ADVERTISER, August 24, 1864, p. 3, c. 2
The Wayside Home.
Mr. Editor:--In behalf of this benevolent institution, permit me to ask
you the favor of reminding our friends in the country, that it is supported
wholly and exclusively by voluntary contributions, when these contributions
become "like Angel's visits, few and far between," the poor furloughed
soldiers cannot avail themselves of its benefits on their way to and from their
respective homes, but have to suffer in many instances for the want of that
temporary food and nourishment that all who remain at home should be willing to
provide for them to the best of their ability.
If the Wayside Home were not in existence among us, the poor travel tired
soldiers would have no way to obtain their meals upon the road but by applying
to the doors of our citizens. Is it
not far better for us to extend our aid liberally to the Home itself, where
every soldier may feel sure of obtaining good nourishing food, than to let so
excellent an institution languish from absolute neglect.
These brave men have left their own homes and all that makes life
endurable, and can we do too much for them in return? Certainly we cannot!
Those who place a proper estimate upon the invaluable services these
brave men are now rendering in the Confederacy, will bear in mind that hundreds
of soldiers pass through the city every week, and have no place to obtain food
and shelter but at the Home. If
they love the soldiers and the cause for which they fight, they will contribute
a part at least of their means in money or provisions, leaving them with Albert
Stassberger, Esq., the excellent superintendent, at 102 Commerce street, or at
the Home Buildings, corner of Bibb and Coosa streets.
Amicus.
DALLAS HERALD, August 27, 1864, p. 1, c. 1
A dramatic entertainment was given at the Court House in this place last
night, under the management of Messrs. Walter and Foley, late of the Houston
Dramatic Association, for the purpose of raising funds with which to establish a
Soldiers' Home in Dallas. We regret
our inability to attend, but learn from those present, that the performance was
very creditable, the house well filled, and every thing passed off pleasantly.
Another performance with change of programme, is to be given for the same
object, on Wednesday evening next. The
object of the entertainment, if nothing else, should insure a full house.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, August 31, 1864, p. 2, c. 4
Soldiers' Homes in Texas.
One in Houston, in charge of Sergt. C. A. Scales.
One in Beaumont, in charge of Wm. Fletcher.
One in Millican, in charge of Wm. R. Ellis.
One in Rusk, in charge of ---------------
One in Crockett, in charge of -------------
One in Hempstead in charge of J. R. Ward.
One in Anderson, in charge of Mrs. Hendrick.
One in Red Top, in charge of Col. Bookman.
One in Chappell Hill, in charge of Judge Thomas.
One in Austin, in charge of Mrs. Shaw.
Mr. Wash. West, of Sweet Home, Lavaca co., also writes the
"News," that soldiers, with proper papers, will be accommodated at his
home free of charge.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, September 14, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
By reference to an advertisement in another column, it will be seen that
Col. Jacob Schmitz, former proprietor of the Guadalupe Hotel, in New Braunfels,
has again taken charge of that establishment, which he has had rented out during
the past year. It will be
gratifying to those travelling that route, to see again the familiar, smiling
face of Jacob, when the Hon. Miss. Murray, in her tour through Texas, designated
as "the prince of Bonifaces." It
requires in these times more than an ordinary man, as Dan Rice, the clown, used
to say, "to keep a hotel," but we think Jacob is equal to the task,
especially since he has become a Colonel, and will therefore know how to treat
soldiers. We hope soon to be able
to announce the establishment of a soldiers' home in New Braunfels, towards
which we feel assured the host of the Guadalupe Hotel contribute liberally. Such establishments are becoming general throughout the
country, and we know of no point where one is more needed than in New Braunfels,
through which soldiers are constantly passing and repassing.
We may here also add that Colonel Schmitz has greatly enlarged his
building which is now capable of accommodating private families and as many
transient visitors as may come along.
SOUTHERN BANNER [ATHENS, GA], October 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 5
Your
Georgia readers will be glad to hear that the Georgia Relief and Hospital
Association continues to dispense its benefits to the soldiers from that
patriotic State. Mr. E. Saulsbury
is the present agent of the Association in Virginia, and has charge of the Way
Side Home in Richmond, the store, baggage of the soldiers &c., &c.
Dr. James Camak is the Surgeon, whose duty it is to look after sick and
wounded Georgians wherever they are to be found, whether on the battle field, on
the ambulance trains, or at the Wayside Home. He is one of the best men and most energetic and faithful
officers I have ever known. Rev.
Mr. Crumley, the Chaplain of the Association, has his headquarters at the Home,
but devoted all his time to the spiritual welfare of the sick and wounded in the
hospitals around the city, in the field, on the cars, in the streets, wherever
indeed there is a suffering Georgian who requires comfort and encouragement, or
a deceased one to be buried. . . .
The St.
Charles Hotel, on the corner of Main and 15th Streets, was opened as a Georgia
Wayside Home the 20th of April, 1863. Here
all Georgians passing through Richmond, either on the way to their homes on
furlough, or on their return to the field, or when proceeding from the hospital
to their commands, are accommodated with food and lodging free of expense.
In this way 32, 342 men, besides officers, has been lodged and fed here
up to the 25th ult. Government furnishes about one half of the rations
consumed; the balance, as well as the house, furniture and servants, is supplied
by the Association. . . .
RICHMOND [VA] WHIG, October 22, 1864, p. 1, c. 4
Fine
Music.—The Charleston Brass Band, led by Prof. Mueller, serenaded Gen. Hagood,
at the South Carolina Soldiers' Home (formerly Exchange Hotel), last night.
The music was surpassingly fine—the symphony and chords rivalling the
tone of an organ, and filling the air with sweetest melody.
The band numbers ten performers, including the bass and kettle drummers.
It left South Carolina at the beginning of the war as a regimental band,
but is now the brigade band of General Hagood's brigade.
We hope that, during their stay in Richmond, they will favor the ladies
of our city with a concert on the Capitol Square.
RICHMOND [VA] WHIG, October 25, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
The
Richmond correspondent of the Mobile Register writes:
"The
'Soldiers' Home' is supposed to be a place of rest, and is kept upon the
principle of a free hotel.—Each State has one at Richmond, where soldiers
passing through register their names, and by an agreement with the Confederate
Government the officer in charge of the house draws rations corresponding to the
number of inmates. These rations
are cooked there. Some of these
places, where the proper attention and care has been given to them, are a very
great convenience and luxury to the soldier who has not been seated at a regular
table for months. Several of these
places are preferable to the Richmond hotels; but I must say that the Alabama
Home is a disgrace to the State. Thousands
of bedbugs and vermin infest the beds, and the general table will not commence
to compare with the living the men have in camp, and God knows that is hard
enough. The poorest and meanest
'extras' have to be bought out of the small pittance of the soldiers.
This is a crying shame. There
is no earthly excuse for it. What
one State can do by energy another can accomplish.—Whether the fault lies at
the door of the State Government or the officer charged with the conduct of
these establishments, I have no means of information.
I am not writing for the purpose of fault-finding, but simply to call
public attention to impositions which hourly and daily the soldiers are made to
suffer, and because I know that public appeals are listened to with much more
attention than private letters. What
I write is from observation, and can be substantiated by hundreds of witnesses.
There is another point connected with this place.
Its location is such that a gentleman who is known in Richmond, or
respects himself, is ashamed to be seen going there.
Nearly every house around it is a den of the lowest and vilest
prostitutes, and it seems to have been selected with an eye to cheapness, and
not convenience or comfort. I know
many officers and men who have nothing in the world but their army pay, who can
ill afford $30 a day at the hotels, who would like to take advantage of this
house, who deny themselves the comforts and necessaries for camp, and spend
their money with the hotels rather than go to this filthy hole."
SOUTHERN WATCHMAN [ATHENS, GA], October 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
Soldiers' Wayside Home.
A "Wayside Home" for our
brave soldiers has been established at this place, at the Old college, and is
under the management of Mr. E. D. Stone.
The object of this institution is to furnish food and lodging to soldiers
on their way to or from the army--many of whom are sick or wounded, and nearly
all without money to pay their way. Such
an establishment at this point is actually necessary, as it is due to the brave
defenders of the soil that they should be made comfortable wherever they go.
It is proposed to sustain the "Home" here as similar
institutions are sustained elsewhere, by voluntary contributions.
To this end, it is expected that every one who is able will contribute
something. To the people of the up
country, whose sons, brothers, &c., will be the principal beneficiaries of
this establishment, we feel we may confidently appeal for contributions. No one need wait to send money.
Everything in the shape of food, both animal and vegetable, is needed.
Send bacon, beef, mutton, lard, butter, poultry, eggs, potatoes, dried
fruit and everything eatable. Send
candles, tallow, soap and such other necessaries as you may have to spare.
Let those who live near enough, send firewood. Let all send something.
If you cannot spare any of the articles necessary to keep up such an
establishment, send money.
We publish this week a list of contributions up to Monday morning last.
Contributions will be acknowledged from week to week.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, October 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
Ladies Fair.--We have been informed that it is the intention of the ladies in
Austin to hold a Fair on Thursday evening in the Confederate Court Room, the
proceeds of which will be applied for the benefit of the Soldiers' Home in this
city. We hope our citizens generally will attend, especially those
who have not already contributed to the support of this most valuable
institution, which we understand is now being kept up at the expense of a few,
while it is a matter in which we all ought to be deeply interested.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, October 26, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
A letter from Fairfield says: "I
am pleased to inform you that there are now Soldiers' Homes established in this
county (Freestone) at three different points:
One at Fairfield, one at Cotton Gin, and one at Butler—there are two
separate houses at Butler at which soldiers can stop, one owned by H. Manning,
Esq., and the other by Mr. Wm. M. McDaniel.
All of the Homes are well supplied by the good citizens of the immediate
vicinity of each of said Homes."
RICHMOND [VA] WHIG, October 26, 1864, p. 1, c. 3
A
soldier ordered from the Army of Tennessee to join Forrest's command gives,
through the columns of The Appeal, an interesting account of what he saw and
heard on his trip. We have,
however, only room for one paragraph of his letter.
He says:
"Arriving
at the famous city of Montgomery, in a dirty and wearied condition, we felt that
we had arrived at the birthplace of the Confederacy, and that no croakers,
stragglers or men exempt could be found within her walls.
Alas for human hopes! Things
have gone from bad to worse. I
stood upon the streets, and lo! a
sea of human beings pass before me. Where
are they from, and whither are they going?
To the front?—'No,' replied a bright-eyed little fellow, (who will some
day make a general,) 'they are not. That
big fellow you see tending to that store is exempt because he superintends the
Wayside Home; that other one has a contract for hauling wood to government
shops; that one is the Governor's aid; that one driving the fine bay is a
Quartermaster; and that one, &c., &c.,' continued the boy, giving
descriptions of their business as each passed before us, until more than double
the number of our entire company had passed."
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, November 2, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
The
Soldiers' Fair and Supper.--This splendid entertainment came off on last
Thursday night. We were
complimented with tickets, and regret much that it was out of our power to
attend. It is represented by those who were present to have surpassed
any thing of the kind heretofore gotten up in Austin, netting to the
"soldiers' Home" upwards of $300 in specie and near $3,000 in
Confederate money. A fine
description of it has been prepared for our paper, and we regret, for the want
of space, we must lay it over until next week.
The ladies of Travis are not to be out-done in their attentions to the
comforts of our brave soldiers.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, November 16, 1864, p. 1, c. 2
Soldiers' Wayside Homes.
Greenwood, Nov. 5, 1864.
Editor
Telegraph:--After a long and dangerous illness (bilious fever) and after
bringing upon myself three relapses by resuming my work too soon, I am once more
able to write you and recommence with caution the good work of establishing
"soldiers' homes." Minden,
Homer and Pleasant Hill, in Louisiana, have been established and are in full
operation.
I am
happy to learn that the good people in Goliad, Hillsboro, (Hill county) Butler
and Fairfield have moved of their own accord and established homes for our
wayfaring troops. All honor to such
patriotic devotion! Perhaps other
places have done the same.
The
principal object of this communication is to give you and the public information
of General Smith's plans to aid this enterprise.
In
answer to my application he has ordered the following letter:
Rev. Thomas Castleton:
Sir—The
General Commanding directs me to say in response to your application to purchase
subsistence stores, that after the "homes" shall have been established
and their location approved by him, he will direct the Commissary Department to
sell to the superintendent of the several homes a quantity equal to that which
appear upon the Superintendent's affidavit to have been used by soldiers during
the previous month." (A true copy.)
Thus
it will appear—1. That General
Smith takes the responsibility of aiding us in the only serious embarrassment we
have to suffer; that is, the difficulty of obtaining the food needed in some
places. Government depots are
everywhere, and can supply where the community cannot.
This is very opportune. In
some places we need no help; in others we are unable without it to supply our
home.
2.
That while generous and liberal, the General Commanding is cautious, and
limits his pledged supply to approved locations.
By this he means to guard against too numerous establishments.
Homes must not be located too near each other.
On
this point I will say for general information and as a suggestion to General
Smith, that the number of miles apart cannot in all cases decide the propriety
of a location. It often happens
that "cross lines of travel" intersect direct lines, and what is
actually upon the direct line too near other homes, is absolutely needed on the
cross lines, and at a proper distance from the other homes upon that cross line.
Thus,
when running a direct line at proper distances, I am obliged to make that a
convenience to establish one to meet a cross line at its point of intersection
with the direct line. Gen. Smith's
good sense will doubtless decide that each community will be able to judge
correctly as to the location of homes.
Of
course the homes which draw rations for each soldier as he passes, will not
apply for subsistence by "purchase."
Many homes will not apply at all. Others
must.
The
second object in writing is to urge affectionately and earnestly the citizens of
all important points upon the main lines of travel from Louisiana and Arkansas
through Texas, to go at once to the work and establish homes every where.
It is time, high time to act. Much
precious time is almost lost. Hundreds
of soldiers have already passed to their abodes and back to their command,
bitter with the memories of repulses and refusals at the hands of many; and will
tell their wrongs and impart their bitterness to the army; while others wounded
and way-worn, have gone home to die, with the bitter thought corroding their
brave bosoms that after three and a half years of battle and camp services they
were refused food and lodging by those for whom they have fought and suffered.
How long shall this continue? Till
I can visit every town and run every line in the State?
Years will be too short a time for that.
Up, then, my noble fellow citizens, and do the work. Follow the example recently set by Goliad, Cotton Gin,
Fairfield, Butler, Pleasant Hill, &c. You
can—you only need to determine upon success.
Let no obstacle hinder you, make it succeed, and a hearty will is success
made sure.
Gen.
Smith has also promised to sell cooking utensils from the Q. M. Department
wherever needed for a home. Do the
best you can, and better afterwards; but do it, and do it at once.
Respectfully,
Thos. Castleton.
P.S.—The
following suggestions are respectfully made to all our homes:
1.
Look well to it, that the person to whom the soldier is sent to obtain a
ticket to the home for admission, be so chosen as to be easily accessible.
In my
travels I have met a number of soldiers who said of certain homes, "it took
me so long to find the ticket for
admission that I was obliged to leave a good meal untasted," "the
whistle blew," or "the stage started and I was sent off hungry."
This ought not to be. It
must not be.
2.
Let constant arrangements be made to furnish "cooked rations"
for one, two, or three days, as the case may demand, so that "the
haversack" may supply the lack of homes until they can be established
everywhere. These cooked rations
should be entered upon "the register" as if eaten in the
"home."
Galveston
News, Caddo Gazette and Washington Telegraph, &c., please copy.
STANDARD [CLARKSVILLE, TX], November 19, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
Liberal
Donation.—The negro band, Shreveport Minstrels, have recently given four
concerts for the benefit of the Soldier's Home, of this place, which netted
$2235, the amount has been paid over to the treasurer of the
association.—South Western.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, November 25, 1864, p. 1, c.
1
Prairie Plains, Nov. 21, 1864.
Editor
Telegraph:--My place has been announced as a Soldiers' Home, and has been such
since the 1st of august, but the task and expense is too much for a man in my
circumstances. I am willing to do
my part, but I can't do it all. I
have supplied some two hundred men and horses since August, without one cent.
outside of my own means, and it has exhausted my substance.
I do not think there is another such Home in the State.
If I could draw on the Commissaries I might manage to get along, but
having to draw from my own resources exclusively, and paying the same tythe as
others, it comes rather too hard. If
the tythe could be used for feeding the soldiers and paying their expenses, It
would make matters much better; then they could stop at almost any farm house,
and not be compelled, as now, to stop two or three hours before night, or travel
till very late to reach regularly established Homes.
I have only given you a hint of what might be made to bear equally on
all, and you will do me a great favor by stating in your paper that the Home at
Prairie Plains is discontinued from and after December 1st, 1864.
J. Bookman.
NASHVILLE DAILY UNION, November 29, 1864, p. 1, c, 5
THE REFUGEES.--10 men, 29 women, and 50 children, a total of 89 persons,
were received at the "Refugee House" yesterday; 8 men, 13 women, and
27 children, a total of 48, were sent North.
Whole number in the camp 4299, being an increase of 41 over yesterday's
report. Of this number 1674 are
negroes, and 2625 are whites. The
authorities are sending the white refugees North as fast as possible, but no
negroes. Twenty-five negro men,
each with families were sent to camp over the river, where they are to be
employed in chopping wood for the Government.
Three deaths, one white man and child, and one colored child, were
reported at the Post Provost marshal's yesterday. Several families of refugees moved into the "Soldiers'
Home" yesterday.--Gaz. 24th [Chattanooga]
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, December 2, 1864, p. 2, c. 1
On Wednesday night the "Marshall Glee Club" gave an
entertainment in the basement story of the Armory, which was well attended.
The instrumental music, singing, and acting were far superior to that
usually displayed by amateur performers, and elicited, as it justly merited, the
highest encomiums. The receipts of
the evening were $2,426, of which amount $2,000 were turned over to the
"Ladies Volunteer Aid Society" for the "Soldiers' Home."
The Club, we learn, has paid us the compliment of electing us an honorary
member. We thank them. It affords us pleasure to be thus recognized by such a body
of intelligent, useful, and patriotic young men.
DALLAS HERALD, December 3, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
Soldiers' Home.
We are glad to know that the matter of establishing a Soldiers' Home in
the Town of Dallas has been taken in hand by our citizens. At a preliminary meeting held at the Court House on Thursday
evening last, at which Col. N. H. Darnell presided at the request of the
Chairman, Col. N. M. Burford explained the object for which the meeting was
called, in a short and pertinent address, after which, on motion, a committee
was appointed to draft a Constitution and By-Laws, and to make the necessary
arrangements for procuring a suitable person to take charge of the Home, said
committee to report at an adjourned meeting this afternoon at 3 o'clock.
A President, Secretary, and Treasurer was also elected, and the Home, we
are pleased to say, seems about to become one of the Institutions of our town.
We cannot too earnestly appeal to our citizens for their zealous and
substantial support of this undertaking, and call upon them to lend their
assistance liberally and promptly. Every
citizen of the county should become a member of the association, and they now
have an opportunity to give whatever assistance is in their power to the cause.
Contributions may be made in money or provisions, and it is expected that
subscriptions will be made at the meeting to-day.
Our country friends who may wish to contribute will be notified to whom
they may send, as soon as the enterprise is completely established.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, December 12, 1864, p. 2, c. 5
Soldiers' Home at Palestine.
Ed. Tel.—Will you please announce, through the Telegraph, for the
information of our soldiers, that we have in Palestine, Anderson county, a
"Soldiers' Home," open for the reception of visitors. Dr. J. G. Scarborough has charge of the "home," and
will give the weary soldier a cordial and hearty welcome; and is prepared to
furnish both the soldier and his horse substantial, if not sumptuous fare.
Much of the success of the enterprise is attributable to Dr. S's untiring
energy. The "Home
Register" shows that in a little over two months 181 guests have been
entertained; 315 meals furnished and 165 horses kept and fed.
The "Home" is under the patronage of, and [illegible] by the
ladies; than whom, none in Texas, perhaps, have responded more readily or more
effectually, than have those of this county, to every call for the benefit of
our soldiers. Already enough of the
substantials, or nearly so, are subscribed to supply the establishment for six
or eight months; and but a small portion of the county has been canvassed.
It would be a pleasure, were it not taxing your columns to heavily, to
mention by name, those of our patriotic citizens who have responded with such
noble generosity to this call, so justly due our veteran and battle worn
soldiers. We can give the names of
J. N. Green, J. M. and H. C. Swanson, Dr. J. G. Caldwell, Frank Coleman and W.
N. Hicks, who have contributed most liberally to this, as they have done in
every call for the benefit of the soldier.
Col. Hicks, in addition to his subscription, to the value of $5,000, to
$6,000, (at a time when Confederate money was more valuable than now,) has given
much personal attention to the enterprise, and declares "it shall be
sustained as long as we have a war worn, patriot soldier, to travel from the
camps to his cherished home and family, and back to the field of service
again."
G.
Palestine,
Dec. 5th, 1861.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 14, 1864, p. 1, c. 6
A Soldier's Home has been established in Dallas.
We believe there are now Soldiers' Homes in all the principal towns of
the State, and we should be glad to publish a full list of them for the
information of soldiers, if any one would give us a correct list.
We should have stated sooner that the Rev. Mr. Castleton, who has been so
indefatigable and successful in building up Soldiers' Homes, has obtained
important aid from Gen. E. Kirby Smith, who has issued an order authorizing
Commissaries to furnish subsistence stores to the superintendents of Soldiers'
Homes to the amount of what was consumed by soldiers during the previous month,
as shown by the superintendent's oath—to be paid for at Government prices.
This will prove an important aid, and our people should, therefore,
object the less to receive the low prices offered them by the Government, when
they see the use made of the supplies.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, December 19, 1864, p. 1, c. 2-3
Soldiers' Homes—Circular Letter.
Galveston, Dec. 10, 1864.
Ed. Te.--I
notice with great pleasure a communication from Austin signed "Recipio,"
in your issue of the 6th inst., which announces the good news that the patriotic
and generous people of that city have organized a soldiers' Home on a most
liberal plan. Upon my return from Louisiana, I found a letter from Warrick
Tunstall, Esq., of San Antonio, informing me that a Home had been
established in that city (in August last) benefitting a chivalrous and patriotic
people, to aid in which, he says, a concert acquired $500 in specie. I
learned from Capt. Lillie that a second concert, gotten up by the "little
girls" afterwards, raised for the same object $800.
Also a
letter from Dr. Brandth, of New Braunfels, giving the gratifying intelligence
that the good people of that city had opened a "Home" for our brave
defenders; adding to the ordinary accommodations for the sick soldier, under the
care of the "S. S.," of whose encampment he is Captain.
I have
also received information informally, of Homes established in many other places,
which I trust is reliable. Fairfield
and Rutler in Freestone county, Springfield in Limestone county, (which I doubt) and
Palestine, (which is now officially published.)
Col. Hicks in this place, I was informed four months ago, had subscribed
$1000 in cash, 1000 bushels of corn, 500 bbls. flour, 100 or 200 lbs. (I forgot
which) of bacon, &c., &c. I
mention this good example to stimulate others, and to encourage our friends
everywhere to move in the good work. Also
Hillsboro, Corsicana, and Cotton Gin, Dallas, &c., and some in the adjacent
counties.
I have
also ascertained that a new and efficient co-laborer has voluntarily entered
this field in Western Texas, Rev. Wm. Cook, from whose successful efforts, a
number of Homes have arizen [sic] into being.
But I prefer to wait for his own report before publishing what I have
heard. I rejoice to know that I am
not alone in this work in Texas.
It
must fill the hearts of all patriots with joy, to see these Homes rising up all
over this proud State, to welcome with generous hospitality the men upon whom
our whole country depends, under God, for our protection; and who have so
successfully defended as heretofore. Let
the work go on! Let every place
open its wide welcome. Let all act
at once! Now is the time.
Indeed, did all know what I could tell them, if I deemed it prudent to
publish, and what will publish itself in due time—alas!
too soon, I fear, all would think quite late, if not too late, for some
places to act.
It is
enough to say, that the instincts of true patriotism will always indicate the
path of safety. To follow it, is
sure of hopeful results, and will defend from unseen dangers, while
covetousness, selfishness, and cold heartedness must end in the loss of present
benefits, and go blindly on to a logical result—fate!
I hope Texan planters will take heed in time, and not only keep open
doors of hospitable welcome to all soldiers, but aid the Homes whenever within
their reach. This is no time for
families living in luxury, and growing rich amid their country's disasters,
because the Providence of God has kept the foemen from their doors; to turn from
those doors the men who, for two, three, and some three and a half years have
stood with their lives in their hands, and bared their noble bosoms to the
foeman's steel and bullet. They
have stood in the dread crises with "death-[illegible] falling fast"
about them. Brothers and fathers
and bosom friends have fallen by their sides.
They come from the graves of the brave and the true—from fields of
blood and glory, where they bore away the dead forms of some they loved most,
and flow back to offer upon their country's holy altar all that was left them on
earth. Must they come back to the
doors and firesides of a great State, whose peaceful abundance is the purchase
of their valor, and of the blood of their slain brothers, and be rejected at
those doors—forbidden a nearer sight of those hearths, than the smoke curling
in mockery from the chimney stacks?
Can
any man tell me what difference (under these circumstances) it can make to at
least half our soldiers (only so that they can gain their own independence)
whether the picture just drawn remain on those chimney stacks, to stand gloomy
sentinels over ashes alone, pointing out the foeman's desolating march?
We
cannot afford to break the bonds of amity and reciprocity between our people at
home and the troops in the field. Nay,
more, does any man think that our troops will long brook the treatment they are
too often called upon to endure for the want of home, by these too often
rejections at planter's doors?
It has
now become the rule of our soldier to begin to beg a place to stay early in the
afternoon, in terror of the too common fate of "lying out," unfed and
unsheltered, all night. Many will
deem this a rhetorical flourish. It
is veritable fact. I know it to be
true. Many have spent whole nights
at the root of a tree, with their horses tied to one of its branches!
! !
in pelting storms. They have
done this hundreds of times in the long march; in the face of the foe; on the
battle field. They never
complained. They will do it again
cheerfully a hundred times, if the God of battle protects their lives. For there, they thought of happy homes, their own, and their
neighbors; of the State, whose "Lone Star" symbol proudly waved over
them, and whose prosperous homes, if defended, would make them forget all their
forms of sorrows in the hearty cheer and cordial welcome and grateful
appreciation which awaited their return.
But it
is in sight of one, two, or three of those homes, that the suffering soldier
lies. Their window lights gleam
through the pelting storm, that is now his only greeting amid the homes he
offered up his life to save. He has
been at these homes and is rejected. He
entreated until his manhood shrank from its own degradation.
He can die. But he can
endure no more self inflicted shame. Hark!
a sound of revelry. Forms
flit and whirl behind the window panes. Merrily
the dance goes on. "Oh!
Yes. They did not wish to be
disturbed in their delights by a poor ragged soldier, and the others were too
busy preparing. I only asked for
food, and to sleep in an out house. Even
that was denied me. Oh! me, I once
was merry too, when poor dear Mary lived whose grave I go home to see. Two
summers and three winters have gleamed and swept over.
She sobbed only one parting word as I left, and it was, "Win or
die." If you live to return,
come back free, and God bring us to
his throne to meet again on earth. "Yes!
Mary," there, not here, we meet again, and even there I will meet
thee free, and untarnished, by the coward or the traitor slain."
Just then, is it surprising if hard thoughts arise against the man who
had rejected his plea for shelter and especially when the only visible
difference between the shivering, sufferer and the hard hearted planter, in
sight of whose luxurious and frollicking house he lay, was, that the one flew at
his country's call, a volunteer, to face the cruel foe and the other was content
to enjoy his ease and increase his wealth at home, and that the one is only
forty-four years old, but the other is 51.
Hard thoughts have a thousand forms, and in different minds take
different paths. Let us not strain
the yielding brow to breaking.
Dark
days may yet come to a people whose long exemption from the ravages of war has
made us so forgetful of those,
"Who are our country's stay
In day and hour of danger."
In
those days we cannot afford to have bitter memories of neglect and cruelty
rankling in the soldiers' bosom, for in those days the flinching of one man in a
company may spread panic through the regiment.
Panic in the regiment may easily demoralize the brigade, and from
division to corps, the army may become disordered, and the day be lost.
With the loss of one battle, a whole zone may be overrun, and thousands
of homes which refused the meed of grateful kindness to the soldier, shall find
that in begrudging the trouble and expense of caring for the way-worn soldier,
they have the trouble of seeking a refuge among strangers, and in penniless
poverty to expiate the crime of hard hearted cruelty against those who had the
highest claim upon their gratitude and beneficence.
I am
possession of many important facts under this head, occurring in a sister State,
full of startling suggestions to our people; but delicacy and sympathy with the
parties, now refugees, forbid. I
have traveled over long miles, in gloomy sadness among chimney stacks and ashes,
where many a weary soldier had dragged his suffering form and ridden his jaded
animal from house to house of luxury and pride, refused the scanty pittance of a
meal, and floor to lie on. And I
have ridden among those lines with men who had no tears for the woes of those
who as they expressed it, "had more feeling for a dog than a soldier."
No one supposes that in any desolated or other region, the whole people
ever did or ever could treat the soldier with neglect.
But when it is the rule, with only exceptions, let our people be assured
that the soldier will not forget the facts, and that a just Providence will
remember them in the day of retribution; and if an intervening and a more
dreaded evil shall be averted by the self-sacrificing devotion and liberality of
the few, and by "soldiers' Homes," sustained by a few, as they always
are, yet by the growing disaffection of our troops in camp, arising from either
extortionate charges with some or to a refusal of hospitality by others, let us
not forget that we are jeopardizing all that is left us.
I am not unaware that much can be said of the faults of some soldiers,
who, while enjoying the hospitality of planters and others, have stolen spoons,
sheets, blankets, quilts, &c., &c., from their benefactors. This is
inexcusable; for it there is no apology; the few are guilty, but shall the many
suffer?
Many
excuses can also be made for planters living upon the crowded lines of military
travel. Some of them are literally
"eaten out." They cannot
sustain the burden. I know of some
who have been obliged to leave their homes from this cause.
some who have fed the soldiers gratis till all their food was exhausted,
and their neighbors refusing to aid them, and even to sell for Confederate
money, no other course was left them but to remove.
Planters
in some cases are very inconsiderate on this subject. They know that houses of entertainment on the road are
exhausting their resources by necessitated hospitality awarded to penniless
soldiers, and yet will neither give nor sell to help them.
Out of danger themselves by living off the road, they are alike
regardless of the suffering soldier, and the "inn keeper" is thus the
victim of what ought to be a mutual burden.
How they can keep themselves in unshamed tranquility, I cannot imagine.
Some
encouraging exceptions have come to my knowledge. "Sergent's Hotel," near Calhoun's Ferry, on the
Trinity river, has never refused the penniless soldier his full supplies.
Col. Alston and his son-in-law and some neighbors have "for the
war," aided Colonel S., and now that this hotel, always the very best in
the country, has become a Soldier's Home, the same parties sustain it nobly.
This is an example to all planters in our whole country. Will they note it?
How
different this from "Red Top" Prairie P[illegible] Post-office, where
the excellent proprietor, Col. Bookman, has alone borne the burden during the
war; and since his house has become a home has received no help from his
neighbors. When I established that
"home," I called upon Mr. S. Stewart, a gentleman of high standing,
and also upon an eminent physician, to whom I had been specially recommended as
benevolent, and enterprizing, and patriotic.
The former promised to help and call on others to do the same; but the
result is, Col. B. says he has received no aid at all from any one.
Why is this? These persons may have reasons.
If so, the public would like to hear them. I can think of none.
As it
is, I have to pay the bill from our "State Committee for S. H." in
Houston, as I pledged Col. B and as I have been obliged to pledge many others.
I am sorry that no response in money has come from the country in all o
this work. Do our friends in the
country intend deliberately to give us the "cold shoulder" in this
work" If so, I must pass by
many places which need homes, and the soldier must pass on unfed and
unsheltered, where I could otherwise have made his heart glad. I have already pledged more than is in the treasury, besides
incidental expenses, which I feel unable to bear. Five hundred dollars, new issue, will not cover the cost of
paper, envelopes and stamps, &c., which I have already purchased for the
immense correspondence through which so much has been done for the cause; and by
which, when unable to leave my room, I was able to reach hundreds of places in
Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas.
All I
ask now is, are our people willingly and deliberately giving us these signs of
their disapproval of the enterprize, or of their want of confidence in us?
In either case, they must not be surprised to see the work stop; and
homes already established, become defunct.
I beg to assure our planting and city friends, that it is neither for my
interest nor health, nor pleasure, to be both asking aid of them for the
salvation of their own all, by elevating and saving from demoralization their
noble defenders, instead of receiving what is daily offered me to my interest,
and making my home in my ambulance,
through days of storm and nights of frost instead of the bosom of my family.
I can
only say, the task is too much to be performed alone; and when I have said this,
the responsibility will no longer press upon me.
I admit I have no claim in this line.
I make none. All know the country, and the armies have no claim upon me,
only as I have volunteered to meet this great want.
The public can easily tell me by silence and withholding their needed
help, that they neither appreciate my work nor desire my services.
Our
State Committee, of which Mrs. Col. Riley is President, and A. J. Burke, Esq.,
Treasurer; and without whose unanimous vote and 'order" not a dollar will
be disbursed, are security to the public that their donations will find the
proper channel, and our city editors will gladly receive for them and
acknowledge in their papers whatever may be sent through them.
Two or
three weeks will find me employed in attention to homes near by and some
necessary "outfit." Let
me know before that time what is the public voice. Speak quick.
I have
to acknowledge the unbounded kindness afforded me in my four months tour, and
the unanimous and universal sympathy and cordial co-operation and aid rendered
me from General K. Kirby Smith down to the no less noble common soldier; from
the lordly mansion to the no less honorable log hut. I know my work is appreciated; but I cannot "make bricks
without straw." In my
sickness, friends, like sisters and brothers, have sprung up everywhere, and I
thus return my thanks. I am more
than satisfied. I need go no
further if ambition inspired me, but I must have a full central treasury.
Homes that I must pledge to support or rather foot the "balance
due" will not always need it, for the neighbors will generally foot the
bill; but in order to establish them and make the parties safe, I must be able
to pledge, I did so to a number in my recent tour, that are now the best
self-sustaining homes on our list.
I
thank your correspondent "Recipio" for his suggestion as to Hotel
Homes; and invite suggestions from all. By
referring to my second circular, Recipio will find that plan, as one of many
suggested, and recommended in most places of sparse travel.
Also I organized five on the same plan four months ago.
I hope Recipio will find the people able and willing to continue the
expense of full hotel charges. I
have always succeeded in arranging at half price.
Finally
(although I have much more to say) let me speak to householders in laces where
the common complaint is, that no place can be found—no house, no rooms, and
nobody willing to take the trouble of entertaining the soldiers.
Do any family think themselves above the "low work" of giving
comfort to our heroes of a hundred battles?
for such will come. I
consider it the most honorable position any man or woman or family can take.
Why is it not so prized?
If
General Lee should pass through a town, what family would not eagerly press
forward to win the honor of entertaining him?
Gen. Lee thinks his soldiers have won for him, under God, all the honor
he has gained, and now enjoys; and that they are as deserving of honor as
himself. Every brave soldier of my
country's armies is to me a Lee, I think "there be six Richmonds in the
field"! So the despairing
coward gasped out his horror as he fled from Bosworth field.
So
again and again have the routed cohorts of our invaders cried, "We think
there be a hundred thousand Lees after us."
To me, when I look over fields of glory, won by our dauntless armies over
half a continent, and for there and a half years of unequal strife, I think they
be three hundred thousand Lees in the field.
Now and then, two, five, ten and twenty of them come through our lines,
to see their loved ones, or to recruit their exhausted ranks, or other business
for the army; and they are all LEES to me.
For them I labor and suffer and labor is rest and pain is sweet for them.
For them I mean to labor and to suffer, till the war shall end, and they
come home to enjoy the well-earned fame, and the love and honor of a grateful
people, and the independence they have won.
And then, what days God may
allot me on earth, I intend to devote to the work and enterprise of STATE
EDUCATION for their children, and making of them and of their disabled brothers,
educators for the State.
The
time I trust, will soon come for developing plans.
Meanwhile let every house open a hearty welcome to the passing
soldier—let homes be sustained everywhere at distances of 20 to 40 miles
apart; and let every soldier remember that ill conduct amid scenes of
hospitality is a stain upon the reputation of the army, a stab near the heart of
our enterprise, and must necessarily shut up many hearts against his wayworn
brother.
Trusting
in God let every man do his duty; repent of his sins, and the day of deliverance
will soon burst upon our suffering nation.
Respectfully,
Thos. Castleton.
Will
other papers please copy.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, December 23, 1864, p. 3, c. 1
Soldiers' Homes—Circular Letter.
I offer respectfully the following suggestions:
1.
That each Home in the wealthier districts should, from time to time, set
apart, and send to our Central State Committee, Houston, A. J. Burke Treasurer,
a portion of their funds to aid us in sustaining Homes in places where the
population are unable to support them.
2.
Let each Home now organized remember that if they fail and allow their
Home to die, it not only cuts that chain and wrongs the passing soldier, but
brings disgrace on the cause, imparts discouragement to others.
3.
Let every neighborhood where a few families on the road are "eaten
out," meet together, and by some fair division aid the sufferers and open
one of these houses as a Home.
4.
Let every town make a call through some clergyman or leading citizen, and
hold a meeting, appoint a responsible committee, and see to it that the
subscription be fully circulated. Let
every name that gives be recorded, and every one who refuses also, together with
the reasons assigned for the refusal. We
want this record from every Home and from every place which finally refuses, and
if the parties will send me the facts, well authenticated, I will see to their
publication. It is high time the
country should know who they are that are determined to make others bear all the
burdens of our struggle for independence, while they wring every quivering
muscle of their bleeding compeers to express and distill their blood for their
own reveling banquets!
5.
The most economical plan of organizing a "S. H." is to procure
a building and a detailed disabled soldier to take charge of it.
Cooking utensils can be either collected piece by piece of neighbors or
purchased of quartermasters through an order from Gen. Smith, which he will
supply upon application together with an order to the Commissary department to
each suitable "S. H." at the end of the month the amount of rations
which upon the affidavit of the Superintendent of the "S. H." shall
appear to have been used for our troops.
If the
rule be adopted to pass each soldier's papers through the Commissary and to make
his due-bill for rations, the ticket of admission to the Home (which is the best
plan in every "post,") then of course no purchase of rations is needed
or permissible. The rations thus,
in the form of tickets, can be drawn in the lump whenever needed.
Table
ware can be had from potteries and knives and forks collected by peacemeal
[sic]; or, as a last resort, an old saw-blade cut up can make ten or twelve
knives. Elegance is well enough,
where possible, but "necessity is the mother of invention," and homes
and food are necessities, although only old saw-blades make our knives.
6.
It is a good method to pay a certain price per meal either to hotel, a
boarding-house, or a private family; and give the rations of all who are
supplied. One to two dollars New
Issue per meal will pay well enough. It is too late in the day for hotel keepers to mourn about
their costly food. We supplied near
one thousand meals in the month of September last, in our Home in Shreveport, at
fifty cents per meal "Old Issue," and in October an equal number at
sixty-five cents. The other cost of
the establishment—rent, salaries, &c., put by themselves, placed the
lodging at 80 cents per night. This,
too, when everything was purchased at the ordinary market prices and donations
put down at their value.
7.
In the country and where there is no "Military Post," it is
probably best to engage an honorable house-holder to open his house, pay him so
much per meal and horse feed, in currency or in produce at a stipulated price.
Then at the close of each month, buy (through an order from Gen. Smith)
and affidavit and all that has been fed and "turn it in" &c.
This is a good and lasting ground of success.
Two meals may fairly be considered a "ration" and buy
accordingly.
8.
It is absolutely essential in order to reach the benefits designed by
"Soldiers' Homes," and to secure the continual aid which Gen. Smith
has pledged; to fully carry out the two rules or "By-Laws" heretofore
published, to-wit: 1st. "Receive
no soldiers without good papers." 2nd.
Suffer none to remain lounging about longer than a traveler intent upon
his journey would naturally stay. All
should stay the Sabbath. The one is
to prevent harboring deserters and imposition.
Look well to the papers—officers and men alike.
If Gen. Smith should call, examine his papers!
The other is to prevent "loafing." It is not a boarding house to stay at, but a way-side home.
Therefore make them "roll on."
Special cases may demand extension of time.
This should be committed to a trusty party, and not be left to caprice.
9.
Soldiers' Homes are designed as much for officers as for men of the line;
and generally as much needed by officers as privates.
Indeed, officers are less provided for than privates, and unless an
income is derived from home, poor men are compelled to resign their offices.
Unless something can be done in this line, it will soon be that poor men
will be totally excluded by their own deliberate yet necessitated act, from all
high office in the army. This we
cannot afford. Perhaps the poor man
is now in the private ranks, who is to rise up a "more than Lee," and
lead us on to victory and peace.
This
is one reason why I have every insisted that officers and privates are equally
entitled. But a higher
consideration has moved me. I would
not have our heroes feel themselves mendicants, and our Homes to be "alms
for indigence." No, no!
a thousand "no's." They
are tokens of a country's gratitude, and gifts of the affection.
I scorn the imputation of charities to men to whom we OWE, not only these
benefits but many others.
Four
months ago, I was standing a looker on "taking notes," as "mine
host" opened his "register," for the first time as the stage had
arrived. A Captain with a new
Confederate suit, came up to pay his bill.
Landlord. "Your name?'
He gave it. "Company?"
It was recorded. "Regiment?"
Capt. stared and answered it. "Where
are you going?" Hesitating.—"Home, sir, but why this
questioning?" Landlord.
"Only we have just opened a Soldiers' Home, and this is my
duty." The Capt. held out his
money. "Your bill is
paid." It puzzled him.
"But I have not paid it."
Landlord. "This is a
soldiers' Home; we don't charge soldiers. Our
friends here pay for you all." "But,
though not rich, I am not an object of charity," confusedly murmured the
Capt., still showing the money, along the desk.
I
could be still no longer; I stepped forward.
"My dear captain," said I, "this is no charity—no alms.
It is a gift of affection, and a token of affection from a people who
know how to appreciate such an army as ours."
The tears started into his eyes and his money went into his pocket.
"This," said he, "is an unexpected pleasure.
By taking one meal a day, I thought I had enough to take me home.
This is great work you are doing, sir."
Parting hands were grasped, and I saw him no more.
Let officers feel welcome at our homes.
I would to God we could in every place give them and the equally
honorable privates as good accommodations as our hearts dictate.
But, in nine cases out of ten, the only alternative is either to have no
home at all or to have a very poor one. Good
food can always be had well cooked and served.
But good fare and beds or a good house, neither love nor money can
procure, except at private houses and hotels.
I have a few times heard bitter taunts and have seen bitter sneers in
mention of some of our homes by officers. Did
they know at how much cost of effort and obloquy these poor homes have been
erected, and how many thousands of dollars and hungry hours they have saved the
poorer of their compeers, they at least would save us from censure and taunt.
When
we cannot do as well as we would, we do as well as we can, and will do better at
the possible opportunity.
10. On receipt of this circular letter, will every place enter at
once upon the work, and proceed to the establishment of a Home.
Respectfully
suggested.
Thos.
Castleton.
Houston, Dec. 15, 1864.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, December 28, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Soldiers' Homes.
We learn from the Rev. Mr. Castleton that the following Homes are now
organized and in successful operation:
Beaumont
Jefferson county.
San Antonio
Bexar county.
Austin
Travis
county.
New Braunfels
Comal county.
Corsicana
Navarro county.
Hillsboro'
Hill county.
Palestine
Anderson county.
Butler
Freestone
county.
Fairfield
"
Cotton Gin
"
Springfield
Limestone county.
Mansfield
Louisiana.
Minden Louisiana.
Homer
Louisiana.
Independence
Maj. Blanton's Hotel
Wash'n
Co.
Waxahachie
Maj. Roger's Hotel
Ellis Co.
Ash Creek
Mr. Ward's
Hill Co.
Bastrop
Mr. Nicholson's Hotel
Bastrop Co.
Paris
[Name not known]
Lamar Co.
Mr. Castleton informs us that he believes there are as many as sixty
Homes in Texas, but that he cannot be positive as to the complete organization
of any but the above.
We omit from this above list several Homes that have been discontinued,
but which it is hoped will soon be reorganized.
Efforts are now being made to reorganize the Home in this city.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, December 30, 1864, p. 2, c.
1
We are
pleased to learn that the committee have obtained the Shrimpf House for a
Soldiers' Home in this city. This
building is of brick, of three stories, and is the best that can be found for
the purpose in the city.
[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, December 30, 1864, p. 3, c . 2
Soldiers' Home in Houston.
Houston, Dec. 28th, 1864.
Ed.
Tel.—Through the kindness of Maj. General Walker and the excellent medical
officers of this district, the Houston Hall or Schrimpf's Hotel has been
temporarily devoted to the soldiers way-side home in this city.
We
hope the committee will be able to open on Saturday next, 31st.
The
ladies of the State Central Committee will supervise and manage the Home with A.
Sessums, Esq., as their treasurer and commissary to whom all donations in
material or money are to be transmitted, and he will personally pledge to the
donors that the donations shall be transmitted, that the donations shall be
applied to the objects intended to the comfort of the traveling soldier.
The
same committee continue "State Central Committee" to aid in sustaining
feeble homes in the State, with A. J. Burke, Esq., as their Treasurer, to whom
all donations for this general work should be forwarded.
To
avoid confusion. Note
well—Donations for this local Home should be sent to A. Sessums; and for the
aid of feeble homes and expenses should be sent to A. J. Burke.
By
distinctly stating the object for which gifts are designed, every donor can make
it certain that the donations will reach the objects designed.
We now
take pleasure in inviting the beloved planters and other friends of the
soldiers, to send at once butter, lard, potatoes, corn, bacon, hams, and any
vegetables, &c., that can be spared, to A. Sessums, BY EXPRESS.
If the
respective Committees at each Railroad
Depot, will choose their own agent there, Mr. Sessums will be responsible for
whatever shall arrive by Express.
We particularly
request Planters on railroad lines to agree together and send a car load of
wood, as a large amount will be needed.
Respectfully,
T. Castleton.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 4, 1865, p. 1, c. 5
The Soldiers' Home in Houston was opened yesterday, and we were present
by invitation of the lady superintendents at a most splendid lunch given to the
Provost Guards of this city, numbering some 75 or 100 soldiers.
The ladies had prepared the tables with the greatest abundance of the
very best our market affords, and it must have afforded gratification to every
one to see the ladies thus supplying the wants of those who have so long been
performing guard duty for our city. But
still more gratifying will it be to every true patriot to find that, hereafter,
no soldier will be permitted to pass through our city without receiving the
hospitality of our citizens, dispensed by the ladies of Houston.
The Houston Hall is a large and commodious brick building, capable of
accommodating several hundred soldiers at the same time, and is by far the most
suitable building in the city for a Soldiers' Home.
We understand that the organization is now complete, all the necessary
officers having been appointed. Mrs.
Col. James Relly [?] has been elected by the ladies President of the
Association.
We look upon the establishment of Soldiers' Homes as a most important
step in the right direction. Nothing
can have a better effect upon the soldiers than an assurance that they are
appreciated by those at home, and especially by the ladies, as their only
protection against a brutal and barbarous enemy and to whom, alone, they can
look for deliverance in this terrible struggle for life, liberty, and even
existence. We have too long
neglected to take the proper means to make the soldiers realize that we feel
indebted to them for our present safety, and that to relieve his wants is the
least we can do for the inestimable services he is rendering to his country.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 4, 1864, p. 2, c. 2
A Soldiers' Home has been established at Jasper, Texas, and our old
friend Dr. Syman White has charge of the same.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 4, 1864, p. 2, c. 3
We are glad to learn from Rev. Mr. Castleton that the Houston Hall (Schrimpf's
Hotel) has been secured for a Soldiers' Home in this city.
It will be under the supervision of the ladies of the State Central
Committee of this city, and Mr. A. Sessums will act as treasurer and commissary,
and to him all moneys and materials for the use of the house must be sent.
We believe the organization is now such as to insure permanency and great
benefits to our soldiers passing through this city.
It is suggested that the friends of the soldiers—farmers, planters and
others in the country—may send such supplies as they feel disposed to donate
to the support of this Home to direct to Mr. Sessums by Express as otherwise
losses are most certain to occur. We
have very little doubt that the proprietors of the Express will be willing to
make the charges very moderate, for the purpose of aiding all they can to
sustain an institution so indispensable to our soldiers, in returning from and
going to the army.
We are requested to state that the same Ladies' Central Committee act in
behalf of such Homes in the country as need assistance, and for this purpose Mr.
A. J. Burke is their Treasurer and to him should be sent all such articles or
such sums of money as are intended for the aid of Homes in the country needing
support. The treasuries for the
Home in this city and Homes in the country are kept distinct, so as to avoid all
confusion and trouble in the application of the means to the purpose intended.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 4, 1865, p. 2, c. 4
We notice an interesting statement relative to the condition of the
Soldiers' Home in Anderson, made in the Telegraph by the following ladies having
direction of that institution, namely:
Mrs. D. Nelms, President,
Mrs. A. Cawthorn,
}
Mrs. C. Kerr,
}
Mrs. Moore,
}
Directresses.
Mrs. Barnes,
}
Miss Womick,
}
It appears from the account given that the Home in Anderson was opened on
the 1st of August last, and has since furnished over 1,200 meals to soldiers and
768 feeds to their horses. The
number wanting accommodation is increasing, owing to the many furloughs now
being granted. Sick soldiers are
attended to by the physician of the Post, and by the Matron, Mrs. Hendricks.
Mrs. Hendricks receives one dollar, Confederate money, for every meal
cooked, and the money to pay for her valuable services is made up by voluntary
subscription and paid out by the Treasurer, Mr. Lawhorn.
The provisions, &c., are obtained by contribution from planters.
It appears that Mrs. Hendricks furnishes her own house for the Soldiers'
Home, and has hitherto furnished bedding, but the Directresses say that more
bedding is needed for this cold weather, and they appeal to the young ladies of
Grimes to send in comforts and such other articles of bedding as they can
furnish, which will be taken care of and returned to the owners.
We are glad to see that so much good is being done by the Home in
Anderson.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 4, 1864, p. 2, c. 7
Soldiers' Homes.
We learn from the Re. Mr. Castleton that the following Homes are now
organized and in successful operations:
Beaumont
Jefferson
county.
San Antonio
Bexar county.
Austin
Travis
county.
New Braunfels
Comal county.
Corsicana
Navarro
county.
Hillsboro'
Hill county.
Palestine
Anderson county.
Butler
Freestone county.
Fairfield
"
Cotton Gin
"
Springfield
Limestone county
Mansfield
Louisiana
Minden
Louisiana
Homer
Louisiana
Independence
Maj. Blanton's Hotel
Wash'n Co.
Waxahachie
Maj. Roger's Hotel
Ellis
Co.
Ash Creek
Mr. Ward's
Hill Co.
Bastrop
Mr. Nicholson's Hotel
Bastrop
Co.
Paris
[Name not known]
Lamar Co.
Beaumont
Col. Fletcher's
Jeff'son Co.
Houston
Houston Hall
Harris Co.
Hempstead
Defunct, but reorganizing
Navasota
Defunct
Millican
Defunct
Anderson
Mrs. Hendricks
Grimes Co.
Huntsville
Col. Polk's Hotel
Walker Co.
Crockett
Defunct
Rusk
Cherokee Co.
Henderson
Col. Davenport's
Rusk
Co.
Marshall
_______ Hotel
Harrison
Shreveport
Louisiana
Dallas
Dallas Co.
Goliad
Goliad
Co.
Mr. Castleton informs us that he believes there are as many as sixty
Homes in Texas, but that he cannot be positive as to the complete organization
of any but the above.
We omit from the above list several Homes that have been discontinued,
but which it is hoped will soon be reorganized.
Efforts are now being made to reorganize the Home in this city.
ALBANY [GA] PATRIOT, January 4, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The Ladies' Concert.
On last Friday evening the ladies
of this place gave a tableaux exhibition and musical entertainment for the
benefit of the Wayside House of this city.--It was the largest gathering of
pleasure-seekers we have seen in Albany; and we are pleased to announce that
everybody who was present speaks of the performances and performers in the
highest terms of commendation. Of
the Tableaux--some eight, we believe--the Terkish [sic] scene and the Drummer
Boy of Shiloh were the most striking and natural.
Norma and the Soldier's Dream were of the pathetic order, and too
mysterious to be fully appreciated, but the silence--and attention which
prevailed at these presentations show that the audience respected their
entertainers and were pleased at their efforts to please.
The vocal and instrumental music was generally good.
Mrs. Westmoreland's performance on the piano was of rare excellence. There was no *thumping* rhapsody in anything she played; it
was *music*--sweet, winning and charming music--which none but highly
accomplished ladies ever can play. . . .
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, January 11, 1865, p. 1, c. 6
Soldiers' Homes.
We learn from the Rev. Mr. Castleton that the following Homes are now
organized and in successful operation:
Beaumont
Jefferson
county;
San Antonio
Bexar county;
Austin
Travis county;
New Braunfels
Comal
county;
Corsicana
Navarro county;
Hillsboro'
Hill county;
Palestine
Anderson
county;
Butler
Freestone county;
Fairfield
"
Cotton Gin
"
Springfield
Limestone county;
Mansfield
Louisiana;
Minden
Louisiana;
Homer
Louisiana;
Independence
Maj. Blanton's Hotel
Wash'n Co;
Waxahachie
Maj. Roger's Hotel
Ellis Co;
Ash Creek
Mr. Ward's
Hill Co;
Bastrop
Mr. Nicholson's Hotel
Bastrop
Co;
Paris
[name not known]
Lamar Co;
Beaumont
Col. Fletcher's
Jeff'son Co;
Houston
Houston
Hall
Harris Co;
Hempstead
Defunct, but reorganizing;
Navasota
Defunct;
Millican
Defunct;
Anderson
Mrs.
Hendricks'
Grimes Co;
Huntsville
Col. Polk's Hotel
Walker Co;
Crockett
Defunct;
Rusk
Cherokee;
Henderson
Col. Davenport's
Rusk Co;
Marshall
_____ Hotel
Harrison;
Shreveport
Louisiana;
Dallas
Dallas
Co;
Goliad
Goliad Co;
Jasper
Dr. L. White's
Jasper Co;
Richmond
Mr.
Botwick's Hotel
Ft. Bend Co;
Clinton
Mr. Cottingham's Hotel
DeWitt Co;
Hallettsville
Lavaca
Co;
Prairie Point
Colorado Co;
LaGrange
Fayette
Co;
Winchester
"
Mr. Burns' Cross Roads
Burleson Co;
Caldwell
"
Cameron
Dr. Drury's Hotel
Milam Co;
Waco
McKeig's Hotel
McLennan.
Mr. Castleton informs us that he believes there are as many as sixty
Homes in Texas, but that he cannot be positive as to the complete organization
of any but the above.
We omit from the above list several Houses that have been discontinued,
but which it is hoped will soon be reorganized.
Efforts are now being made to reorganize the Home in this city.
CHARLESTON MERCURY, January 13, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
There was no firing yesterday, with the exception of a few guns to bring
the flag of truce steamers to the anchorage ground.
About 250 refugees from Savannah, including men, women and children, were
delivered. They nearly all concur
in the statement that the general treatment of the inhabitants of Savannah by
the Yankees has been mild. They say
that Sherman has, with Foster's reinforcements, 80,000 men, and that he began
his movement against Branchville and Augusta on Wednesday.
The privates speak of wreaking their vengeance on South Carolina; but the
officers say that their actions will depend on the amount of opposition they may
encounter. They declare that if
they should have hard fighting to do and are successful, they will not attempt
to restrain their men.
Most of the refugees were accommodated at private quarters.
The following are at the Wayside Home:
Mrs. Starr, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. Heidt, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. Sheppard, Savannah, Ga.
Miss Jenkins, Effingham Co., Ga.
Miss Powers, Effingham Co., Ga.
Miss Grovens?ert?, Effingham Co., Ga.
Miss Atkins, Effingham Co., Ga.
Miss Bourquine, Effingham Co., Ga.
Mrs. A. Jenkins, Effingham Co., Ga.
Mrs. Furgerson, Effingham Co., Ga.
Miss Graham, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. Breuner, Savannah, Ga.
Miss Pinder, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. S. C. Grant and two children, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. Hardee and one child, Savannah, Ga.
Mrs. Quartermen, Savannah, Ga.
Miss Elkins, Effingham Co., Ga.
Mrs. Guiton and one son, Effingham Co., Ga.
Mrs.
S. E. Gruber and three children, Savannah, Ga.
Capt. Robt. Hardis, Savannah, Ga.
D. R. Muller, Scriven Co., Ga.
A. F. Bennett, Savannah, Ga.
J. A. Cubbage, Scriven Co., Ga.
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, January 13, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The Ladies Aid Society have at last done what we wanted them to do six
months ago, organized a regular Soldier's Home, in Marshall. It is placed under the charge of Mr. Thomas M. Hemby, a very
reliable, clever gentleman, who, if properly sustained, will not weary in well
doing. The next thing to be
accomplished, is to render it truly what it purports to be, a "Soldiers'
Home," where the soldier will be furnished with plenty of food and a nice
warm bed to sleep in. Our farmers
can send in vegetables, eggs, butter, a few chickens, &c.
And those who have none of those things, can contribute money.
We hope the Ladies will see that every man in the county comes up to the
good work. The building selected is
the old hotel, which has been thoroughly cleansed from top to bottom.
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, January 13, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
The "Marshall Glee Club" will give a Concert at the Adkins
House to-night, for the benefit of the Soldiers' Home.
GALVESTON WEEKLY NEWS, February 1, 1865, p. 1, c. 6
Fairfield, January 21st, 1865.
Ed. News:--I occasionally get a glimpse of your valuable paper, and
notice something concerning soldiers' homes.
I bet to inform the public, through your columns, that the County Court
of this (Freestone) County has succeeded in establishing the following soldiers'
homes, to wit:
Fairfield, by Judge D. H. Love; on the Palestine road, 6 miles, by Wm.
Blythe; on the Palestine road, 11 miles, by G. G. Cole; on the Palestine road,
14 miles, by W. M. McDaniel; on the Palestine road, at Burton, by H. Maning; on
the Palestine road, 17 miles, by Thomas P. Whitt; on the Palestine road, 21
miles, by Mrs. M. W. Struty; on the Pine Bluff road, 6 miles, by R. H. Gordon;
on the Pine Bluff road, 8 miles, by F. C. Olivers; on the Corsicana road, 6
miles, by J. B. Johnson; on the Corsicana road, 8 miles, by F. M. Bradley; on
the Tahuacana Hill, 6 miles, by N. L. Womack; on the Tahuacana road, 8 miles, by
Oliver Carter; on the Springfield road, 9 miles, by W. W. Groover; on the
Springfield road, 11 miles, by Sterling Sims; on the Springfield road, 12 miles,
by Joseph Lynn; on the Springfield road, at Cotton Gin, by J. J. Robinson; on
the Springfield road, at Cotton Gin, by James S. Wills; on the Springfield road,
15 miles, by Charles Stricklin; on the Houston road, 12 miles, by Andrew Batey;
on the Centreville road, 3 miles, by W. R. Dais; on the Centreville road, 8
miles, by J. H. Blain; on the Centreville road, 12 miles, by
R. F. Chandler; on the North-west road, 14 miles, by Thomas Lamb.
The keepers of these homes are required to register their houses as such
at the Clerk's office, keep proper registers, examine passes, papers, &c.,
of each visitor, present his register with his account quarterly to the County
Court for payment, which accounts are audited and paid by the County Treasurer.
No soldier is allowed to remain longer than one night at any one of these
homes unless sick or disabled. No
drunkenness or gambling is allowed.
I, of course, do not expect you to publish the one-half that I have
wrote—a mere notice is all that is desired.
I have not heard of any County having more than seventy-five soldiers'
homes, but believe each ought to have at least that number.
I am, most respectfully, your obd't serv't,
J.
C. Yarbro, C. J.
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, February 17, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The "Soldiers' Home" at this place is beginning to realize what
it was intended to be, a genuine Soldiers' Home.
The ladies, with their accustomed industry and zeal, have taken the
matter in hand. We dropped in at
the Tome the other morning, and found a number of our fair friends busily
employed in making comforts. We
noticed several new mattrasses [sic]. The
soldier passing through Marshall will find it a pleasant stopping place, and we
hope it will be made even more so. One
gentleman from the country said to us, "I live too far to send provisions
up here regularly; but tell Mr. Hemby to send a little wagon down to our
neighborhood, and we will fill it." That's
the right spirit, and we hope will be imitated by other neighborhoods.
Those who live near might send a little of their surplus.
Turkies [sic], ducks, chickens, eggs, butter, lard, hams, potatoes,
&c., can be used to advantage. A
very little from each one—an amount that would not be missed—will create the
greatest abundance.
DALLAS HERALD, March 16, 1865, p. 2, c. 1
The Soldiers' Home. We would
remind our citizens that this institution is dependent entirely on their bounty
for its existence, and to make the burden bear equally and lightly on each
member of the community there should be more general subscription of money and
provisions. Up to this time, the
burden has been borne by a few persons, who have contributed most generously.
It is not proper or just, that they should be taxed for the entire
support of the Home, and we make this notice merely to remind our readers of
something which has perhaps slipped their memory.
Contributions in money will be handed to the Secretary, at the Herald
Office; Provisions of all kinds, may be delivered to the Commissary, Mr. S. D.
McDonald. Every one acknowledges
the necessity of the Home being sustained at this place, and we hope every one
will see to it that their mite is contributed to its support.
From the organization of the Association, Dec. 6, 1864, to 5th March,
1865, a period of three months, 181 soldiers received the benefit of the Home,
to whom 411 meals and 200 lodgings were furnished, at a cost to the Society of
$204.60. The society has been able
so far to meet this indebtedness, but it has, as we have said above, been borne
by the generosity of comparatively a few persons.
It is the intention of the Society at an early day, to publish a
list of all contributions, and we want to see it as long as possible.
It is also desired that those persons having lists of contributions in
their hands will use extra exertions to increase the same, and hand them into
the Secretary as early as possible.
AUSTIN STATE GAZETTE, May 10, 1865, p. 2, c. 3
[Summary: report of Soldiers' Home
Association of Austin for March, April 1865.
[MARSHALL] TEXAS REPUBLICAN, May 26, 1865, p. 2, c. 2
We regret to state that the Soldiers' Home at this place has been broken
up. This is much to be regretted.
It was only required a few weeks longer, until absent soldiers passed
through Marshall on their way to their respective homes.
As it is, soldiers are continually passing through our town, with no
provision existing for their comfort and sustenance.
Cannot this be remedied?