  In the subsequent chapters is traced the history of the operations of the American National Red Cross during the past year, including the distribution of relief among the “Reconcentrados” in Cuba, and the auxiliary field and hospital service in the Spanish-American war. Being called away to Cuba in the midst of the preparations for war relief, with much of the preliminary work unfinished, it seemed proper to leave at home, for a time, a personal representative familiar with the obligations of the National Red Cross, to relieve the overburdened committee in New York of some of the details which fell more particularly within my own province, and to which I had planned to give personal attention. Accordingly, Mr. D.L. Cobb, of my staff, was detached for this service. Being familiar with the work which was done in my absence, and in which he has faithfully and efficiently served with an interest second only to my own, I have asked him to tell the story of the relations of the National Committee with the Government, the formation of the committees and the auxiliary societies, through whose guidance and administrations all the great work of relief in the Camps and elsewhere was carried on. This he has done in the following chapter, under the title, “Home Camps and American Waters.”
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| Yacht “Red Cross.”—Failed to reach Cuba in time for service, and was used for transporting sick between military camps and New York. S.S. “San Antonio.”—Carried assorted cargo and hospital supplies to Matanzas and Cardenas for distribution to the interior towns. | S.S. “State of Texas.”—Loaded before the declaration of war, with 1400 tons of food and hospital supplies and clothing for Cuban hungry. Carried Red Cross president and working staff and nurses. Used cargo for both U.S. Army and Cubans at Guantanamo, Siboney, the front and Santiago. | Schooner “Mary E Morse.”—Carried 800 tons of ice to Santiago, used on transports carrying returned soldiers and sick men. Afterward carried transferred cargo of “Port Victor” to Baracoa and Jibarra for distribution among Cuban hungry. Schooner “Nocomis.”— Carried 700 tons of ice to Porto Rico. |
While waiting for an opportunity to get into Cuba, the reports which reached us showed that the distress among the reconcentrados was daily increasing, and it was determined to make an attempt to land with the “State of Texas,” or at least to show the willingness of the Red Cross to do so, if permitted. As the ship was under the direction of the Navy Department, the following letter was addressed to the admiral in command of the blockading fleet:
Admiral William T. Sampson, U.S.N.,
Commanding fleet before Havana:
Admiral: But for the introduction kindly proffered by our mutual acquaintance, Captain Harrington, I should scarcely presume to address you. He will have made known to you the subject which I desire to bring to your gracious consideration.
Papers forwarded by direction of our government will have shown the charge entrusted to me, viz: To get food to the starving people of Cuba. I have with me a cargo of fourteen hundred tons, under the flag of the Red Cross, the one international emblem of neutrality and humanity known to civilization. Spain knows and regards it.
Fourteen months ago, the entire Spanish Government at Madrid cabled me permission to take to, and distribute food to the suffering people in Cuba. This official permission was broadly published; if read by our people, no response was made, no action taken until two months ago, when under the humane and gracious call of our honored President, I did go, and distributed food unmolested anywhere on the island, until arrangements were made by our government for all American citizens to leave Cuba. Persons must now be dying there by the hundreds if not thousands daily, for the want of the food we are shutting out. Will not the world hold us accountable? Will history write us blameless? Will it not be said of us that we completed the scheme of extermination commenced by Weyler? I fear the mutterings are already in the air.
I would like to ask Spanish permission and protection to land and distribute the food now on the “State of Texas.” Could I be permitted to ask to see them under flag of truce? If we make the effort and are refused, the blame rests with them; if we fail to make it, it rests with us. I hold it good statesmanship to at least divide the responsibility. I am told that some days must elapse before our troops can be in position to reach and feed this starving people. Our food and our force are here, ready to commence at once.
With assurances of highest regard, I am, Admiral,
Clara Barton.
On the same day, Admiral Sampson, in his reply, pointed out why, as commander of the blockading squadron, his instructions would not permit him to admit food into Cuba at that time.
Key West, Florida, May 2, 1898.
Miss Clara Barton,
President, American National Red Cross, Key West, Fla.:
Dear Madam: I have received, through the senior naval officer present, a copy of a letter from the State Department to the Secretary of the Navy, a copy of a letter of the Secretary of the Navy to the commander-in-chief of the naval force on this station, and also a copy of a letter from the Secretary of the Navy to the commandant of the naval station at Key West.
2. From these communications it appears that the destination of the steamship “State of Texas,” loaded with supplies for the starving reconcentrados in Cuba, is left, in a measure, to my judgment.
3. At present I am acting under instructions from the Navy Department to blockade the coast of Cuba for the purpose of preventing, among other things, any food supply from reaching the Spanish forces in Cuba. Under these circumstances it seems to me unwise to let a ship-load of such supplies be sent to the reconcentrados, for, in my opinion, they would be distributed to the Spanish army. Until some point be occupied in Cuba by our forces, from which such distribution may be made to those for whom the supplies are intended, I am unwilling that they should be landed on Cuban soil.
W.T. Sampson,
Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy,
Commander-in-Chief U.S. Naval Force,
North Atlantic Station.
Herewith I transmit copies of letters passed between Admiral Sampson and myself. I think it important that you should immediately present this correspondence personally to the government, as it will place before them the exact situation here. The utmost cordiality exists between Admiral Sampson and myself. The admiral feels it his duty, as chief of the blockading squadron to keep food out of Cuba, and recognizes that from my standpoint my duty is to try to get food into Cuba and this correspondence is transmitted with his cordial consent. If I insist, Admiral Sampson will try to open communication under a flag of truce, but his letter expresses his opinion regarding the best method. Advices from the government would enable us to reach a decision. Unless there is objection at Washington, you are at liberty to publish this correspondence if you wish.
In a few days the following cablegram was received in reply:
Clara Barton, Key West:
Submitted your message to President and cabinet, and it was read with moistened eyes. Considered serious and pathetic. Admiral Sampson’s views regarded as wisest at present. Hope to land you soon. President, Long and Moore send highest regards.
(S.E.)
We too hoped to land soon, but the opportunity never came, and the “State of Texas” whose finely assorted cargo was primarily intended for the starving reconcentrados, did not get to Cuba until she went with the transports conveying the invading army, and, after doing good service in the relief of the sick and wounded at El Caney and Siboney, she entered the harbor of Santiago, the first American ship to reach the city.
While these things were transpiring, preparations were being made by the Red Cross, in accordance with the provisions of the Treaty of Geneva, to render auxiliary medical and hospital service during the war. Upon the declaration of war, a special committee was appointed, composed of Dr. J.B. Hubbell, Mr. John Hitz and Mr.
Following the usual custom, the American National Red Cross was about to issue a statement to the American people for funds and materials to support its ministrations to the sick and wounded, when a resolution was passed by the board of directors of the New York Red Cross Hospital, of which institution Mr. William T. Wardwell is president, proposing the formation of a Relief Committee. The purpose of this committee was to raise funds and supplies, in the name of the Red Cross, and to act as a national auxiliary in the capacity of trustees and temporary custodians of the contributions of the people in support of the work to be done by the American National Red Cross.
The tender of the proposed Relief Committee, thus voluntarily formed, was provisionally accepted by Mr. Stephen E. Barton, subject to the official acceptance by the American National Red Cross. Upon this provisional acceptance the Relief Committee proceeded to organize, and its membership was enlarged by the addition of men well known in social and financial circles of the City and State of New York.
The name adopted by the committee: “The American National Red Cross Relief Committee,” was perhaps unfortunate, in some respects, inasmuch as it created a certain confusion in the minds of the people, who were often unable to distinguish between the parent organization, the American National Red Cross, and the Relief Committee of New York. The committee having completed its organization, the tender of its services during the war was made and accepted in the following terms:
Gentlemen: We have before us the official communication in which your secretary, Mr. John P. Faure, transmits to us for action thereon, the following resolution from your executive committee:
Resolved, That the secretary be and he hereby is instructed to officially notify the American National Red Cross of the fact of the organization of this committee, requesting official acknowledgment and acceptance by the American National Red Cross, of the tender of financial co-operation and support offered by this committee.
In reply we would say that it gives us great pleasure to accept your generous offer of financial co-operation and support. In carrying out the object of your offer, you are authorized to make such a public appeal, in the name of the American National Red Cross, as you may think best.
The American National Red Cross,
Geo. Kennan, Vice-President,
Stephen E. Barton, Second Vice-President.
The acceptance of this offer made necessary the formation of an executive committee of the American National Red Cross, with headquarters in the city of New York, whose function it would be to represent the Red Cross in its official dealings with the government at Washington, the American people and the Relief Committee, and to devise ways and means for the administration of the contributions of the people, through the appointment and direction of official representatives of the Red Cross in the camps. The executive committee was at once appointed and consisted of the following members: Stephen E. Barton, Charles A. Schieren, Hon. Joseph Sheldon, George W. Boldt and William B. Howland, and organized with Mr. Barton as chairman and Mr. Schieren as treasurer.
On the fourteenth day of May the Relief Committee addressed the following letter to the President of the United States, reciting the formal offer of the American National Red Cross to supplement the field and hospital service of the army and navy, and reiterating their tender of co-operation and financial support:
To the President:
Sir: In accordance with the request made by you to the special committee appointed by the American National Red Cross Relief Committee, during its recent visit to you, the undersigned members of said special committee beg leave to submit the following statements for your consideration:
The American National Red Cross Relief Committee of New York, organized with an unlimited number of co-operating and auxiliary bodies throughout the country, for the purpose of providing financial and material sustenance to the work of the American National Red Cross, Miss Clara Barton, president, begs leave to represent to the Government of the United States as follows, viz:
Second.—That we are informed that the said American National Red Cross has given formal notice to the Departments of State, War and Navy and the Surgeons-General of the army and navy of its readiness to respond to any calls for civil aid to supplement the hospital work of the army and navy, in accordance with the provisions of the resolutions of the Geneva Conference of 1863 and the Geneva Convention of 1864, and their amendments.
Third.—That, in order to guarantee the fullest effectiveness of the aid thus offered by the civil Red Cross, this committee hereby gives you official notice that it stands ready, together with other co-operating committees, to furnish all necessary money and material to support the work of the said American National Red Cross, as hereinbefore outlined.
We beg to request, Mr. President, that you take the necessary action to have the several departments of the government duly notified of this financial guarantee of the assistance tendered by the American National Red Cross, to the end that the fullest reliance may be placed upon its offer, should the extent of the present war over tax the preparations of the medical departments of the army and navy.
Please favor us with a prompt acknowledgment of this letter and information as to your action thereon.
Henry C. Potter, D.D., LL.D.,
William T. Wardwell,
George F. Shrady, M.D.,
A. Monae Lesser, M.D.
On May 24, the above communication was transmitted by the Secretary of State to the Department of War, in the following letter in which he explains the position of the American National Red Cross and its national and international status:
The Honorable the Secretary of War:
Sir: I have the honor to transmit to you copy of a letter addressed to the President under date of the twentieth inst., by Messrs. Levi P. Morton, Henry C. Potter, D.D., William T. Wardwell, George F. Shrady, M.D., and A. Monae Lesser, M.D., a special committee appointed by the American National Red Cross Relief Committee, in regard to the work proposed to be undertaken by that organization for the purpose of providing financial and material support to the work of the American National Red Cross, of which latter Miss Clara Barton is president.
The proposal has the President’s cordial approbation in view of the distinctive position of the American National Red Cross as the sole central organization in the United States in affiliation with the International Committee of Berne, and through
It is to be remembered that the Geneva Convention itself is largely the outgrowth of American initiative. The American Sanitary Commission, organized during the first years of the War of the Rebellion, proved the efficacy of uniform and concentrated effort to bring into play the benevolent influences of the people to aid the military authorities in caring for the sick and wounded in war, and its conspicuous success attracted attention abroad to such a degree that, in obedience to a very general desire in European countries, the Swiss Government, in 1863, invited an international conference to formulate and adopt a general plan for the amelioration of the suffering of the sick and wounded in war. As a result of that conference arrangements were perfected for the organization of central civil committees in the several countries to supplement the work done by the military service of the armies in the field, thus creating in nearly all the Continental States organizations similar to the American Sanitary Commission. The following year another conference was held at Geneva, under the auspices of the International Committee, which resulted in the signing of the Geneva Convention of 1864, to which the United States is a party. Still another conference in 1868 resulted in the additional articles extending the principles of the Geneva Convention to naval operations, which have been adopted by this government and Spain as a modus vivendi during the present war.
Besides these truly international conventions, conferences held at Geneva in 1867 and in 1869 still further perfected the organization and operation of the International Committee of Berne and its relations to the several civil central Red Cross Committees in the adhering States, to the end that the latter might not alone cooperate with the governments of their respective nations in time of war, but should perform analogous relief work in each State in time of pestilence, famine or other national calamity.
The American National Red Cross, incorporated under the laws of the United States for the District of Columbia, constitutes the sole legitimate and recognized local branch in this country of the great international association, of which the International Committee of Berne is the head. Of its conspicuous peaceful services in time of national suffering at home and abroad, it is superfluous to speak. Its relation to the military and naval hospital service in time of war is now under consideration. Under the terms of the Geneva conventions, its aid may be powerfully given to the military and naval armies, with the added prestige which belongs to it as the American branch of the International Red Cross. By the terms of the Geneva Convention of 1864, the participation of its agents in the active ambulance and hospital service of the armies and naval forces of the United States is effected through the express neutralization of its individual workers by the military and naval authorities and the issuance to them of the stipulated armlet bearing the sign of the Red Cross. Its assistance, however, is not limited to this individual employment of its agents in the field; it stands ready to co-operate in the equipment and supply of ambulances and medical stores, drawing for its resources on the benevolence of the community and systematizing effort and aid throughout the country by the various local committees it has organized.
By Article II of the protocol of the Geneva Conference of 1863, which created the International Committee of Berne and its associated national committees,
There is pending in Congress at the present time an act to legitimize the national status of the American National Red Cross and to protect its exclusive use of the insignia of the Red Cross for the work it was organized to perform, and its early passage is expected. Indeed, it would probably have become a law before now but for a need of a slight amendment which this Department has advised. The purpose of that act has the President’s cordial approval.
In referring to me the annexed letter from the special committee of the American National Red Cross Relief Committee the President has requested me to take such steps as may be necessary and effective to recognize the American National Red Cross as the proper and sole representative in the United States of the International Committee, and, as such, corresponding to the central committees which have been constituted in the several States which have adhered to the Geneva Convention. So far as international correspondence with the Swiss Government in relation to the deliberations of the Geneva Conference is concerned, this government has uniformly recognized the American National Red Cross as the only civil body in the United States which is regularly affiliated with the International Committee of Berne for the purpose of carrying out the arrangements elaborated by the various conferences held at Geneva, and the representatives of the American National Red Cross at those conferences have uniformly attended with the sanction of the United States Government. No additional recognition or sanction is needed in that quarter.
I have therefore the honor to inform you, by direction of the President, that this government recognizes, for any appropriate co-operative purposes, the American National Red Cross as the Civil Central American Committee in correspondence with the International Committee for the relief of the wounded in war and to invite similar recognition of its status by your department with a view to taking advantage of its proffered aid during the present war so far as may be available.
William R. Day,
Secretary of State.
The foregoing letter from the Secretary of State defines the position of the American National Red Cross, as uniformly recognized by the Government of the United States, and by the International Committee representing all the treaty nations. The treaty contemplates that there shall be in each country one national organization of the Red Cross,
It is important that we be able to certify that your government is prepared to accept your services in case of war; that it will readily enter into co-operation with you and will encourage the centralization, under your direction, of all voluntary aid.
We have no doubt that you will readily obtain, from the competent authorities, an official declaration to that effect, and we believe this matter will be merely a formality; but we attach the greatest importance to the fact, in order to cover our responsibility, especially in view of the pretensions of rival societies which might claim to be acknowledged by us. It is your society and none other that we will recognize.
It will be seen that, in the opinion of the International Committee, not recognition alone, but cordial co-operation on the part of the government is of vital importance. In each country, the National Red Cross, or national committee as it is sometimes called, is the only civil medium contemplated by the treaty, through which the people of the respective countries may lawfully communicate with the armies in the field, for the purpose of rendering such auxiliary medical and hospital service, and other relief, as may be required. It must be constantly born in mind, in order to clearly understand the operations of the Red Cross, that our government and the people are bound, not only by the solemn provisions of the treaty, but also by the resolutions of the international conferences, composed of delegates authorized by their respective governments. Thus, the Secretary of State in his letter says:
The American National Red Cross constitutes the sole legitimate and recognized local branch, in this country, of the great International Association, of which the International Committee at Berne is the head. This government has uniformly recognized the American National Red Cross as the only civil body in the United States which is regularly affiliated with the International Committee of Berne, for the purpose of carrying out the arrangements elaborated by the various conferences held at Geneva, and the representatives of the American National Red Cross at those conferences have uniformly attended with the sanction of the United States Government. No additional recognition or sanction is needed in that quarter.
After having secured for the people by treaty the right, through their own national organizations of the Red Cross, to contribute to the relief of the sick and wounded in war, the delegates to the international conventions at Geneva continued their labors until there was added to the functions of the Red Cross, the power to administer relief, in times of peace, on fields of national disaster. Out of compliment to the president of the American National Red Cross, who advocated this extension, the addition to the treaty is known as “The American Amendment.” Referring to it, the Secretary of State in his letter continues:
Conferences held at Geneva in 1867 and 1869, still further perfected the organization and operation of the International Committee of Berne, and its relations to the several civil Central Red Cross Committees in the adhering States, to the end that the latter might not alone co-operate with the governments of their respective nations in time of war, but should perform analogous relief work in each State in time of pestilence, famine or other national calamity. Of the American National Red Cross, and its conspicuous peaceful services in time of national suffering at home and abroad, it is superfluous to speak.
Thus is clearly explained why, on such great fields of suffering and disaster as the Ohio Floods, the Russian Famine, the Sea Islands Hurricane, in Armenia and in Cuba, the American National Red Cross is found endeavoring to carry out the benign intentions of the Treaty of Geneva.
For the first time in the history of warfare, it was now proposed to fit out, and maintain at sea, hospital ships for the relief of sick and
Although the Additional Articles had not yet been formally ratified, the Swiss Government, acting as an intermediary, and with a view to securing their observance by both belligerents during the war, opened a diplomatic correspondence between the governments of the United States and Spain, proposing the adoption of a temporary agreement, or modus vivendi, during the continuance of hostilities. The official correspondence on the subject between the Secretary of State and the Swiss Minister will be of interest, as showing the method by which the temporary agreement between the two countries was secured, the modifications made and the interpretation placed upon some of the doubtful clauses:
Washington, April 23, 1898.
Mr. Secretary of State: War having been now unhappily declared between the United States and Spain, my government, in its capacity as the intermediary organ between the signatory states of the convention of Geneva, has decided to propose to the cabinets of Washington and Madrid to recognize and carry into execution, as a modus vivendi, during the whole duration of hostilities, the additional articles, proposed by the International Conference which met at Geneva on October 20, 1868, to the convention of Geneva of August 22, 1864, which (additional articles) extend the effects of that convention to naval wars. Although it has as yet been impossible to convert the said draft of additional articles into a treaty, still, in 1870, Germany and France, at the suggestion of the Swiss Federal Council, consented to apply the additional articles as a modus vivendi, during the whole duration of hostilities. The Federal Council proposes the additional articles as they have been amended at the request of France and construed by that power and Great Britain.
The Spanish Government, likewise, in 1872, declared itself ready to adhere to these articles. The Federal Council, therefore, hopes that the two governments will agree to adopt the measure, the object of which is to secure the application on the seas of the humane principles laid down in the Geneva Convention.
With the confident expectation of a favorable reply from the United States Government to this proposal, I avail myself, etc.,
Washington, April 25, 1898.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the twenty-third instant, whereby, in view of the condition of war existing between the United States and Spain, you communicate the purpose of your government to propose to the cabinets of Washington and Madrid that they recognize and carry into execution, as a modus vivendi, during the whole duration of hostilities, the additional articles proposed by the International Conference of Geneva, under date of October 20, 1868, for the purpose of extending to naval wars the effects of the convention of Geneva of August 22, 1864, for the succor of the wounded in armies in the field.
As you note in the communication to which I have the honor to reply, the United States, through the act of the President, did on the first day of March, 1882, accede to the said additional articles of October 20, 1868, at the same time that it acceded to the original convention of Geneva of August 22, 1864; but, as is recited in the President’s proclamation of July 26, 1882, a copy of which I enclose herewith, the exchange of the ratifications of the aforesaid additional articles of October 20, 1868, had not then (nor has since) taken place between the contracting parties, so that the promulgation of the accession of the United States to the said additional articles was (and still remains) reserved until the exchange of the ratifications thereof between the several contracting states shall have been effected and the said additional articles shall have acquired full force and effect as an international treaty.
I find, upon examination of the published correspondence which took place in 1870 at the time of the war between France and North Germany (British and Foreign State Papers, vol. 60, pp. 945-946), that upon the initiative of the Prussian minister at Berne, followed by the proposal made by the government of the Swiss confederation to the French and North German governments, the then belligerents severally notified to the government of Switzerland their willingness to accept provisionally and at once to establish as a modus vivendi applicable to the war then in progress, both by sea and land, all the additional articles to the convention of Geneva of October 20, 1868, together with the subsequent interpretations of the ninth and tenth articles thereof agreed upon and proposed by England and France. I understand from your note that, although those articles have not as yet become a matter of international convention, it is desired that the United States and Spain accede to the same, together with the same amendments and construction as above stated. I entertain no doubt that the United States will readily lend
I would respectfully suggest, therefore, that there be furnished to this government either the text or a clear exposition of the articles, with the amendments and constructions referred to, in order that the understanding may be complete. A certain pamphlet, written by Lieutenant Colonel Poland in 1886, is said to contain these amendments and constructions, but there is not now accessible to the Department of State a copy of such pamphlet or other reliable means of information on the subject. I shall await with pleasure fuller and exact information from you of the terms to which we are asked to accede.
Accept, etc.
Washington, D.C., May 4, 1898.
Mr. Secretary of State: I have had the honor to receive the note which your honorable predecessor did me the favor of addressing to me under the date of the twenty-fifth of April, in reply to mine of the twenty-third of the same month, upon the subject of the proposition of my government to the cabinets of Washington and Madrid to adopt as a modus vivendi pending the entire duration of the war, the articles of the twentieth of October, 1868, additional to those of the convention of Geneva of the twenty-second of August, 1864.
The documents which, in the aforesaid note of your predecessor, were desired and which, as I have had the opportunity of telling you verbally, my government had sent at the same time that it instructed me by cable to make the overtures on the subject, have just arrived, and I enclose them herein in duplicate copies. They confirm the text of the additional articles, the modification of Article IX proposed by France and the notes exchanged between England and France concerning the import of Article X. The Spanish Government having, by note of its Legation of the seventh of September, 1872, also declared that it was ready to adhere to the articles in question, the Federal Council hopes that the governments of America and Spain, appreciating the sentiments which have guided it in its course, will be of accord in adopting as a modus vivendi a measure which has for its purpose the securing of the application upon the sea of the humanitarian principles consecrated by the Geneva Convention.
Awaiting your communication to me of the decision which the Government of the United States shall see fit to take in regard to this proposition, I offer you, Mr. Secretary of State, the expression of my very highest consideration.
Washington, May 9, 1898.
Sir: Upon receiving your note of the fourth instant, in reply to mine of the twenty-fifth of April, concerning the proposition of the Government of the Swiss
As so expressed, the Government of the United States finds no difficulty in acceding to the suggestion of the Government of Switzerland. It had, in fact, anticipated it, so far as concerns its own conduct of hostilities and its own purpose to observe the humane dictates of modern civilization in the prosecution of warfare upon the sea as well as upon land by fitting out and equipping a special ambulance ship, the “Solace,” in conformity with the terms of the additional convention aforesaid, thus confirming emphatically its adhesion to the principles of that beneficient arrangement without regard to the absence of its formal ratification by the various signatories.
I am happy, therefore, to advise you, and through you the Government of the Swiss Confederation, that the Government of the United States will for its part, and so long as the present war between this country and Spain shall last, treat as an effective modus vivendi the fourteen additional articles of October 20, 1868, with the interpretations of the ninth and tenth articles thereof appearing in the publication you communicate to me. While it is proper to adopt this course on its own account, and without reference to such action as Spain may take, this government would nevertheless be glad to hear that the representations made by your government to that of Spain had met with a favorable response in order that the two parties to the present contest may stand pledged to the same humane and enlightened conduct of naval operations as respects the sick and wounded as was recognized and adopted by the respective parties to the Franco-Prussian war.
Should the Government of Spain likewise accede to the Swiss proposition, I should be much gratified to be apprised of the fact, and also that the Spanish accession contemplates acceptance of the interpretations of Articles IX and X which were adopted by France and the North German States and which are embraced in the proposition of your government.
Accept, etc.
Washington, D.C., May 9, 1898.
Mr. Secretary of State: As I had the honor verbally to inform the Assistant Secretary of State this morning, my Government has charged me to bring to the knowledge of Your Excellency that the Spanish Government has accepted the proposition of the Federal Council concerning the additional articles of the Geneva Convention.
Washington, May 10, 1898.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of May 9, formally notifying me that the Spanish Government has accepted the proposition of the Federal Council concerning the additional articles of the Geneva Convention, and expressing the hope that you would be soon enabled to inform your government that the United States Government adheres for its part to the proposed modus vivendi.
As you were advised in the verbal interview with the Second Assistant Secretary of State, to which you refer in your note of the ninth, I have already had the pleasure of informing you, by my official note of that date, that the United States Government would for its part treat as an effective modus vivendi the additional articles of 1868, with the amendments and interpretations of Articles IX and X thereof appearing in the publication communicated to me by you. I trust that that note, which apparently had not reached your hands at the time of your note to me of the same date, has now been received by you and its contents transmitted to the Federal Council.
William R. Day.
The additional articles concerning the Maritime Hospital Service in war, as modified by the modus vivendi, forming Articles VI to XV of the Treaty of Geneva when formally ratified, are:
Art. VI. The boats which, at their own risk and peril, during and after an engagement pick up the shipwrecked or wounded, or which, having picked them up, convey them on board a neutral or hospital ship, shall enjoy, until the accomplishment of their mission, the character of neutrality, as far as the circumstances of the engagement and the position of the ships engaged will permit.
The appreciation of these circumstances is entrusted to the humanity of all the combatants. The wrecked and wounded thus picked up and saved must not serve again during the continuance of the war.
Art. VII. The religious, medical and hospital staff of any captured vessel are declared neutral, and, on leaving the ship, may remove the articles and surgical instruments which are their private property.
Art. VIII. The staff designated in the preceding article must continue to fulfill their functions in the captured ship, assisting in the removal of the wounded
The stipulations of the second additional article[D] are applicable to the pay and allowance of the staff.
Art. IX. The military hospital ships remain under martial law in all that concerns their stores; they become the property of the captor, but the latter must not divert them from their special appropriation during the continuance of the war.
[The vessels not equipped for fighting, which during peace, the government shall have officially declared to be intended to serve as floating hospital ships, shall however, enjoy during the war complete neutrality, both as regards stores, and also as regards their staff, provided their equipment is exclusively appropriated to the special service on which they are employed.]
Art. X. Any merchantman, to whatever nation she may belong, charged exclusively with removal of sick and wounded, is protected by neutrality, but the mere fact, noted on the ship’s books, of the vessel having been visited by an enemy’s cruiser, renders the sick and wounded incapable of serving during the continuance of the war. The cruiser shall even have the right of putting on board an officer in order to accompany the convoy, and thus verify the good faith of the operation.
If the merchant ship also carries a cargo, her neutrality will still protect it, provided that such cargo is not of a nature to be confiscated by the belligerent.
The belligerents retain the right to interdict neutralized vessels from all communication, and from any course which they might deem prejudicial to the secrecy of their operations. In urgent cases special conventions may be entered into between commanders in chief, in order to neutralize temporarily and in a special manner the vessels intended for the removal of the sick and wounded.
Art. XI. Wounded or sick sailors and soldiers, when embarked, to whatever nation they may belong, shall be protected and taken care of by their captors.
Their return to their own country is subject to the provisions of Article VI of the convention and of the additional Article V.[E]
Art. XII. The distinctive flag to be used with the national flag, in order to indicate any vessel or boat which may claim the benefits of neutrality, in virtue of the principles of this convention, is a white flag with a red cross. The belligerents may exercise in this respect any mode of verification which they may deem necessary.
Military hospital ships shall be distinguished by being painted white outside with green strake.
They shall make themselves known by hoisting together with their national flag, the white flag with a red cross. The distinctive mark of their staff, while performing their duties, shall be an armlet of the same colors. The outer painting of these hospital ships shall be white, with red strake.
These ships shall bear aid and assistance to the wounded and wrecked belligerents, without distinction of nationality.
They must take care not to interfere in any way with the movements of the combatants. During and after the battle they must do their duty at their own risk and peril.
The belligerents shall have the right of controlling and visiting them; they will be at liberty to refuse their assistance, to order them to depart, and to detain them if the exigencies of the case require such a step.
The wounded and wrecked picked up by these ships cannot be reclaimed by either of the combatants, and they will be required not to serve during the continuance of the war.
Art. XIV. In naval wars any strong presumption that either belligerent takes advantage of the benefits of neutrality, with any other view than the interest of the sick and wounded, gives to the other belligerent, until proof to the contrary, the right of suspending the convention as regards such belligerent.
Should this presumption become a certainty, notice may be given to such belligerent that the convention is suspended with regard to him during the whole continuance of the war.
Art. XV. The present act shall be drawn up in a single original copy, which shall be deposited in the archives of the Swiss Confederation.
An authentic copy of this act shall be delivered, with an invitation to adhere to it, to each of the signatory powers of the convention of the twenty-second of August, 1864, as well as to those that have successively acceded to it.
In faith whereof, the undersigned commissaries have drawn up the present project of additional articles and have apposed thereunto the seals of their arms.
[Done at Geneva, the twentieth day of the month of October, of the year one thousand, eight hundred and sixty-eight.]
The following note shows the special amendment and the interpretation of certain clauses of the articles, as agreed by the Governments of the United States and Spain:
NOTE.
(a) The amendment proposed by France is contained in brackets after Article IX.
(b) The interpretation placed upon Article X by England and France is to the following effect:
The question being raised as to whether under Article X a vessel might not avail herself of the carrying of sick or wounded to engage with impunity in traffic otherwise hazardous under the rules of war, it was agreed that there was no purpose in the articles to modify in any particular the generally admitted principles concerning the rights of belligerents; that the performance of such services of humanity could not be used as a cover either for contraband of war or for enemy merchandise; and that every boat which or whose cargo would, under ordinary circumstances, be subject to confiscation, can not be relieved therefrom by the sole fact of carrying sick and wounded.
Question being raised as to whether, under Article X an absolute right was afforded to a blockaded party to freely remove its sick and wounded from the blockaded town, it was agreed that such removal or evacuation of sick and wounded was entirely subject to the consent of the blockading party. It should be permitted for humanity’s sake where the superior exigencies of war may not intervene to prevent, but the besieging party might refuse permission entirely.
The full text of the French interpretation of Article X is subjoined.
The second paragraph of the additional Article X reads thus: “If the merchant ship also carries a cargo, her neutrality will still protect it, provided that such cargo is not of a nature to be confiscated by the belligerent.”
The words “of a nature to be confiscated by the belligerent” apply equally to the nationality of the merchandise and to its quality.
Thus, according to the latest international conventions, merchandise of a nature to be confiscated by a cruiser are:
First. Contraband of war, under whatever flag.
Second. Enemy merchandise under enemy flag.
The cruiser need not recognize the neutrality of the vessel carrying wounded if any part of its cargo shall, under international law, be comprised in either of these two categories of goods.
The faculty given by the paragraph in question to leave on board of vessels carrying wounded a portion of the cargo is to be considered as a facility for the carriage of freight, as well as a valuable privilege in favor of the navigability of merchant vessels if they be bad sailors when only in ballast; but this faculty can in no wise prejudice the right of confiscation of the cargo within the limits fixed by international law.
Every ship the cargo of which would be subject to confiscation by the cruiser under ordinary circumstances is not susceptible of being covered by neutrality by the sole fact of carrying in addition sick or wounded men. The ship and the cargo would then come under the common law of war, which has not been modified by the convention except in favor of the vessel exclusively laden with wounded men, or the cargo of which would not be subject to confiscation in any case. Thus, for example, the merchant ship of a belligerent laden with neutral merchandise and at the same time carrying sick and wounded is covered by neutrality.
A neutral ship carrying, in addition to wounded and sick men of the belligerent, contraband of war also is subject to the common law of war.
A neutral ship carrying goods of any nationality, but not contraband of war, lends its own neutrality to the wounded and sick which it may carry.
In so far as concerns the usage which expressly prohibits a cartel ship from engaging in any commerce whatsoever at the point of arrival, it is deemed that there is no occasion to specially subject to that inhibition vessels carrying wounded men, because the second paragraph of Article X imposes upon the belligerents, equally as upon neutrals, the exclusion of the transportation of merchandise subject to confiscation.
Moreover, if one of the belligerents should abuse the privilege which is accorded to him, and under the pretext of transporting the wounded should neutralize under its flag an important commercial intercourse which might in a notorious manner influence the chances or the duration of the war, Article XIV of the convention could justly be invoked by the other belligerent.
As for the second point of the note of the British Government, relative to the privilege of effectively removing from a city, besieged and blockaded by sea, under the cover of neutrality, vessels bearing wounded and sick men, in such a way as to prolong the resistance of the besieged, the convention does not authorize this privilege. In according the benefits of a neutral status of a specifically limited neutrality to vessels carrying wounded, the convention could not give them rights superior to those of other neutrals who can not pass an effective blockade without special authorization. Humanity, however, in such a case, does not lose all its rights, and, if circumstances permit the besieging party to relax the rigorous rights of the blockade, the besieged party may make propositions to that end in virtue of the fourth paragraph of Article X.
It was under this modus vivendi that the steam launch “Moynier” received from the Government of the United States her commission as a little hospital ship of the Red Cross. For this little vessel, presented by Mr. William B. Howland, the editor of the Outlook, as the gift of the readers of that popular periodical, the Red Cross is gratefully indebted.
On June 6, 1898, the tender of the services of the American National Red Cross to act as an auxiliary to the Medical and Hospital Service of the Army and Navy, in accordance with the treaty, was formally accepted by the Departments of War and Navy:
Washington, June 6, 1898.
Clara Barton,
President of the American National Red Cross, Washington, D.C.:
The tender of the services of the American National Red Cross, made to this department through the Department of State under date of May 25, 1898, for medical and hospital work as auxiliary to the hospital service of the Army of the United States, is accepted; all representatives and employes of said organization to be subject to orders according to the rules and discipline of war, as provided by the 63d Article of War.
R.A. Alger,
Secretary of War.
Clara Barton,
President of the American National Red Cross, Washington, D.C.:
The tender of the services of the American National Red Cross, made to this department through the Department of State under date of May 25, 1898, for medical and hospital work as auxiliary to the hospital service of the navy of the United States, is accepted; all representatives and employes of said organization to be subject to orders according to the rules and discipline of war.
Chas. H. Allen,
Acting Secretary.
In the meantime, war was officially proclaimed, and the President had issued his call for volunteers. As the troops responded to the call, they were assembled in camps in various sections of the country, principally in Washington, Chickamauga Park, Georgia, Jacksonville, Tampa and Port Tampa in Florida. Soon after the formation of the camps it became evident that the auxiliary service of the Red Cross would be necessary in caring for the men, and a formal tender of such service was made to the government by Mr. George Kennan, first vice-president of the American National Red Cross, to which the following reply was received:
June 8, 1898.
Dear Sir: I have, by your reference, the letter of this date from Mr. George Kennan, of the American National Red Cross, and see no objection whatsoever to their establishing a station in every military camp for the purpose indicated in
R.A. Alger,
Secretary of War.
Hon. John Addison Porter,
Secretary to the President.
Acting upon this acceptance, the executive committee, of which Mr. Stephen E. Barton was the chairman, appointed and sent to each camp an agent, to represent the Red Cross in the field. These representatives were instructed to report to the respective medical officers of the army in charge, to make, personally, a formal tender of assistance, and to ascertain if the Red Cross could be of service, by furnishing quickly any medical and hospital supplies of which the camps might be in need.
It is perhaps proper to state here, as a matter of history, that while these field agents were always most courteously received, in many instances the auxiliary services of the Red Cross were not at first welcomed by the medical officers of the army. Indeed it often happened that the assistance, of which the hospital service of the army was apparently in need, was not accepted until after its efficiency was seriously diminished by reason of delay.
The reluctance to permit the people, through the Red Cross, to assist in ministering to the comforts of the men, did not generally seem to arise from personal objection on the part of the medical officers at the camps, but from an apparent fear, whether well founded or not, that immediate acceptance of assistance would result in official censure and disapproval.
CAMP ALGER.
Among the first of the Red Cross field agents appointed was Mr. B.H. Warner, of Washington, to whose special charge was assigned the field known as “Camp Alger.” Mr. Warner makes the following report of the work done by himself and the committee of which he was chairman:
On June 10, 1898, I was notified by letter of George Kennan, Esq., first vice-president of American National Red Cross, that I had been appointed as its representative, at Camp Alger, Virginia, and was requested to report to Chief Surgeon Girard, regarding the establishment of a station at that camp; to ascertain if anything in the form of hospital supplies were needed, and to advise the Executive Committee.
It was suggested that, as the work to be established at Camp Alger was the first step of the Red Cross in the field in connection with the Spanish war, that prudence and tact should be used in maintaining friendly and harmonious relations with the military authorities, especially with the surgeons.
In accordance with my appointment, I visited the War Department, and obtained a special letter of introduction from Secretary Alger to Major-General Graham, commanding at Fort Alger, asking him to give me every facility possible in connection with the work to be undertaken. General Graham introduced me to Colonel Girard, with whom I had a long conference, the result of which was the establishment of headquarters of the Red Cross in the camp, and the settlement of some details as to work which was to be done in accordance with the advice and authority of the surgeon in charge.
I found Colonel Girard exceedingly busy, and apparently very sanguine as to the ability of the government to meet all demands that might be made by every department of the army. He seemed, however, willing that the Red Cross should furnish extra comforts for the men at the camp. I was impressed with the fact that he considered men who had received a regular army education thoroughly competent to meet the situation, and that all supplies could be had as soon as needed; that he did not want too many comforts for sick men, so as to unfit them for the hardships of war when they should go nearer to the scene of active operations.
Quite a number of prominent citizens were present at the first meeting, including Rev. T.S. Hamlin, D.D., and Rev. Byron Sunderland, D.D.
Mrs. Spencer was compelled by other engagements to retire from the work of the Executive Committee early in its history, but still remains as a member of the General Committee. I want to say for the ladies, who served on the Executive Committee, that I never saw more devoted, energetic and efficient service on any committee or under any conditions with which I have been familiar, than that rendered by them. They were all constantly active, both at Camp Alger, Fort Myer, and all along the line, at all hours, day and night, whenever and wherever their presence was required. They were exceptionally competent to direct, possessed of a high order of ability and intelligence, and deserve, not only the thanks of the national organization, but also of all who are friendly to the thousands of soldiers who were benefited by their administration. The Executive Committee met every Tuesday and more frequently when required.
Mrs. J. Ellen Foster began service at the commencement of war, and was very active in and around Washington in camp, hospital, and the railway relief work. She also visited Camp Wikoff, Camp Black, Camp McPherson, Camp Thomas, Chickamauga, camp at Huntsville, Ala., and the hospitals in New York and Boston, where sick soldiers were quartered. Her experience gave her opportunities of suggesting improvement in many departments of work, and the administration of relief, not only by the Red Cross, but by other organizations as well.
Captain George C. Lewis, on the twenty-first of June, was elected secretary of the committee. He had been an officer in the Civil War,
Experienced nurses seemed to be needed at Camp Alger. Patients were not receiving the necessary care and attention. The committee supplied mattresses, sheets, pillows and slips, mosquito bars, lemons, and a large quantity of medicine, pajamas, underclothing, night-shirts, handkerchiefs, groceries, delicacies, etc.
The surgeons at the hospitals were timid about asking the government for supplies. As stated, the surgeon-in-chief at Camp Alger seemed to think that the soldiers who were taken sick should be treated in such a manner as would inure them to the hardships of camp, and the life of a soldier. When spoken to on this subject he said, “These men must understand that war is not play.” One of the assistant surgeons said, “It is much easier to ask the Red Cross for supplies, and they can be obtained sooner than by asking the government, as there is so much red tape and it takes so long to get everything.” When the kitchens at Camp Alger were inspected the food did not appear to be of the right kind, and was not properly cooked. Point Sheridan, Va., was visited by Mrs. Mussey on July 29, and sixteen men were found sick. They seemed to be suffering for supplies, especially medicine, which had been ordered on June 27, but had not been received. The Red Cross delivered them proper medicine within twenty-four hours. It was found that each camp hospital must have its regular visitors, and different members of the committee were appointed. Articles needed were supplied from headquarters in Washington, and large shipments were also sent direct from New York to various points. On several occasions underclothing and pajamas were supplied by the hundred within twenty-four hours.
Early in August, the Washington Barracks were made a post hospital, and the Red Cross aid was gladly accepted by Major Adair, surgeon in charge. For a long time our committee supplied this point with 800 pounds of ice, 5 gallons of chicken soup, 30 gallons of milk, 20 pounds of butter daily, as well as 2 crates of eggs weekly. We also
The Secretary of War gave authority for the establishment of diet kitchens in the camps near Washington, and Mrs. Mussey, who had taken a special interest in this work from the beginning, was given general charge of the establishment of the kitchens.
A diet kitchen was established at Camp Bristow, and two competent male colored cooks placed in charge. Major Weaver, the chief surgeon, and his staff of five surgeons, were both devoted and competent in their service, and the sick soldiers were loud in their praise.
We found it was unnecessary to establish one at the hospital at the Washington Barracks as arrangements there were so good, and it only seemed necessary to furnish fresh soups daily, and the committee made a contract for five gallons per day at cost for material only.
The committee authorized Mrs. E.S. Mussey and Mrs. J.A.T. Hull to establish a diet kitchen at Fort Myer. Major Davis, surgeon in charge, yielded his own wishes to the Secretary of War. As no building was furnished, the committee made a contract for one of a temporary character, which was put up at a cost, when completed with range, plumbing, etc., of about $350.00. Dr. Mary E. Green, president of the National Household Economical Association, was secured as superintendent, and in not more than ten days from the time of its commencement the building was completed, furnished and orders being filled. It has been a great assistance, not only in furnishing properly cooked food, but invaluable as an object lesson in neatness and skilled cooking.
The government has voluntarily paid all the bills for meat, chickens and milk, leaving the committee to pay for groceries, and wages of employes. Dr. Green has rendered such efficient service that she has been employed by the government to establish diet kitchens at other points.
At Fort Myer nearly four hundred patients were suffering with typhoid and no provision existed for preparing a special diet. Canned soup was heated up and served to those just leaving a strictly milk diet, and the so-called chicken broth, which was served wholly unsatisfactorily to both physicians and nurses. When the diet kitchen was completed, beef, mutton and chicken broth, made fresh daily in the manner best calculated to bring out the nutritive value of the meat,
During the month of September from the seventh instant, 55c orders, averaging fifteen portions each, or 8250 portions, were filled in the diet kitchen. Physicians, nurses and patients unite in saying the aid they secured from this work is of inestimable value, not only in saving lives, but in hastening the recovery of all. Major Davis, as the surgeon in charge, has expressed his high appreciation of the good results obtained by establishing the kitchen, and the methods pursued in conducting it.
In response to suggestions from the general committee in New York, a special committee was sent to Fortress Monroe to meet the first wounded, who came up from the battlefields of El Caney, San Juan and Guasimas. The surgeon in charge, Dr. DeWitt, stated their immediate needs, and supplies were sent one day after they were called for, consisting in part of 500 pairs of pajamas, twenty-five pairs of crutches, 200 pairs of slippers, 350 yards of rubber sheeting, large quantities of antiseptic dressings, five dozen gallons of whiskey and brandy, 200 cans of soup, granite-ware basins, pitchers, dishes, etc.
Several other visits were made to this point, resulting in the employment of additional trained nurses, with proper provision for their maintenance. Arrangements were also made on behalf of the general committee for supplying ice for the use of troops on board the transports going south, and also for the sick on their journey northward. Mr. Bickford was afterward designated to take charge of the work of the Red Cross at this point, so further work on the part of our committee was unnecessary.
The branch of the work, which has been really one of the most difficult to conduct, was the looking after soldiers, who passed through the city mostly from Southern to Northern camps, and those who were going home. There was such a general demand on the part of the men for coffee, bread and other supplies, and it was so hard to limit our service to the sick soldiers alone, that we soon determined to feed not only the convalescent, but all who were hungry. Soldiers from the following organizations were fed and supplied, the well men receiving bread and butter sandwiches:
Very frequently the committee furnished handkerchiefs and soap, as well as reading matter. The sick were given soup and milk packed in ice, fruit, medicines, etc. Forty-five were removed from the trains and taken to the hospitals in Washington. We used, in this connection, not only the services of trained nurses in the employ of the Red Cross, but Dr. Bayne was detailed by the War Department, and rendered most efficient service, as he was always ready and willing to do everything in his power, day or night, for the relief of the sick.
The War Department ordered for the use of the committee the erection of two tents in close proximity to our rooms, which were at 915 Maryland Avenue. One of these tents was filled with fully equipped cots, on which the invalids were placed while waiting the arrival of ambulances, and the other was used as a general depot for supplies. The War Department paid for the bread we used in this work, and, also, for 4346 loaves furnished to the Pension Office Relief Committee, which was engaged in the same kind of work. Many donations of food and material were received, and as stated, nearly forty thousand men were fed, and how some of them did eat not only as if they were making up for the fasts of the past, but for any which might occur in the future.
Mrs. James Tanner had charge of this work, which was very exacting, and she had been appointed a committee to secure reading matter for the different camps, before the Red Cross Committee was organized, and collected several wagon loads of books, magazines, and other periodicals, which were sent to Camp Alger, Fort Myer, Point Sheridan, Fort Washington, Chickamauga, Tampa and Santiago. Distribution of this reading matter was also made at the Red Cross quarters at 915 Maryland Avenue and handed to the soldiers who passed through the city on trains.
All bills for ice furnished to Point Sheridan, Va., Washington Barracks, and to the Diet Kitchen at Fort Myer have been paid by the
The Legion of Loyal Women, of which Mrs. Thomas W. Calver, a member of our committee, was president, acted as an auxiliary for the Red Cross Committee, and made a large number of mosquito nets, flannel bandages, wash cloths, and pajamas. Besides this, they collected many supplies, consisting of boxes of oranges, lemons, tea, coffee, jelly, condensed milk, crackers, yeast powder, cocoa, stamps, writing paper, tobacco, fruit, soap, socks, handkerchiefs, towels, nightshirts, underclothes, pajamas, quinine and other medicine, which were sent to the various camps.
Generous donations of clothing, jellies, cordials and money were also received from various auxiliaries of the ladies’ of the Union Veteran Legion.
The Red Cross Committee assisted in the establishment of a temporary home in this city for the returning volunteers. The existence of this home was limited to two months. The time will expire November 10, when it will be broken up. It has cared for a daily average of sixty soldiers. The Red Cross assisted by furnishing cots and furniture. Mrs. Calver, of our committee, is in charge, and it is conducted without expense to the Red Cross.
The total amount expended in the Railway Relief work, in feeding men as they passed through the city, was $2637.13.
Arrangements were also made after this work closed to look after all the sick soldiers, who came in at the several railroad stations.
The treasurer, C.J. Bell, will transmit a full report, with vouchers for all expenditures which have been up to this date, $7560, and with outstanding bills amounting to about $1000 more.
A large number of ladies rendered excellent service in making sheets, pillow-cases, mosquito nets, pajamas, bandages and articles too numerous to mention. Many volunteer nurses were anxious to go where they could render service to the sick and wounded.
It is gratifying to be able to state that whatever view the surgeons and other officers may have had as to the need of the Red Cross at the beginning of the war, at the close they joined with the private soldiers in testifying to its wonderful and efficient work.
Among the principal donations were those from the Lutheran Church Society, Hagerstown, Md., consisting of 50 pajamas, 50 suits of underclothing, 50 nightshirts, 40 sheets, 250 pairs of socks, 100 towels, 200 handkerchiefs, 75 rolls of bandages, delicacies and sundry
There were distributed by this committee, in part, 800 sheets, 500 pillow-cases, 800 suits of pajamas, 1500 suits of underclothing, 1600 abdominal bandages, 800 pairs of socks, 750 nightshirts, 350 mosquito bars, 100 rubber sheets, 400 pairs of slippers, 2000 palm leaf fans, 75 large boxes of soap, 150 cots, 250 mattresses, 100 pairs of blankets, 275 pillows, $1000 worth of groceries, $300 malted milk, $850 soups and bouillons, $725 medicines and surgical supplies, $250 wines and liquors, and $1050 milk, a great variety and quantity of smaller articles and supplies.
The following supplies were received from the general New York Committee: 50 boxes of ivory soap, 50 rubber sheets, 400 suits of underwear, 250 sheets, 250 pillow-cases, 250 nightshirts, 200 pairs of slippers, 500 suits of pajamas, $200 worth of malted milk, beef extract and Mellin’s food, $700 worth of canned soups and bouillons and $6000 cash.
In closing, permit me to thank Vice-President Barton and the Executive Committee for prompt and liberal responses to every request made for aid of any character, and for immediately recognizing the fact that the committee at this point had a work placed upon it very extensive and unique in character, and requiring a large outlay of money and service.
I desire to call to your special attention the great service rendered by Mrs. E.S. Mussey, who, during the absence of Mrs. Foster and myself from the city, acted as chairman of the committee, and for two months gave nearly all of her time to its service, visiting different camps and hospitals, and in the work devolving upon her she was untiring and unusually efficient.
Much complaint has been made as to the location of Camp Alger, because of the prevalence of typhoid and malarial fever, and the absence of water supply both for drinking and bathing purposes. A personal knowledge of this section of Virginia, extending over many years, enables me to state that it has been regarded as unusually healthy, and a most desirable section for homes, the growth and development of which would have been very rapid had there been an additional bridge giving greater facilities for crossing the Potomac. The water there has been considered pure and healthy, and used by many families without bad results.
Falls Church, near this camp, has been regarded as one of the healthiest and most desirable suburbs of the National Capital. The
The Red Cross entered upon its great work at the beginning of the war under many difficulties. Instead of being aided and encouraged in an undertaking that comprehended the generous spirit of the nation, its mission was oftimes interrupted and hindered by officers of prominence and rank. It is proper to say, however, that the President and Secretary of War were at all times deeply interested in our work, and did all in their power to expedite our plans. There appeared to be a jealous apprehension in some quarters that the Red Cross would interfere with established institutions. What it has accomplished is a matter of history, daily recorded in the public press, it has not been aggressive, nor has it dominated any legitimate authority. It has sought to be the servant and not the master. As one general particularly friendly to the organization remarked, “the Red Cross has not been the foe, but the friend of every one, even of red tape.”
If we had any criticism to make it would be in favor of more practical common sense dealing with all matters especially those pertaining to the camp and hospital, and of the necessity of fixing individual responsibility so as to be certain of results as well as orders.
Many high-minded and patriotic officers have been blamed where they ought to have been praised; one distinguished professional man dying from the effects of undeserved fault finding.
If another war should ever come to us as a nation, we trust the lessons of that which has just closed will not be forgotten. Many of
I want to place upon record the generous kindness of Dr. and Mrs. J. Ford Thompson in tendering to the committee the use of house No. 1310 G Street for headquarters; W.B. Moses & Sons for furniture loaned for our use; Springman & Sons for free transportation of goods; to the railroads for reduction of fare; to the Falls Church Electric Railroad, and Washington and Norfolk Steamship Company for free transportation; to the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company for telephone, and to all who generously worked and contributed for the success of the committee.
The army and navy embodied the power of the government in the Spanish war, but the Red Cross in a large degree represented the affectionate regard of the American people, for those who went out to defend the flag of the Union, and their great desire to mitigate in every possible way the sufferings resulting from exposure, disease and conflict, as well as to relieve distress wherever it existed.
Courage and charity go hand in hand, and when the smoke of battle has rolled away, and the tattoo and reveille are memories of the past; when the white tents of the camps are folded; the equipment of war is exchanged for the implements of peace the appreciation of the citizen soldier for the Red Cross will grow in volume as he sits by his fireside and tells how its ministries gave relief and aid to his comrades and himself in the camp, the hospital, at Siboney, Santiago, Porto Rico and elsewhere, and how it extended succor even to his enemies when the conflict ceased.
The Red Cross of peace will outlive the Red Flag of war, even as charity shall survive the force of arms. Let us hope that the former ensign may soon float by the side of the flags of all the nations and peoples of the world, as an evidence of the advance of civilization, and the universal desire that there be no more war; that men everywhere are ready to extend a helping hand to all who suffer from disaster or
And may I say, in closing, that no one during the past quarter of a century has in a larger degree aided in the cultivation of peace and good will among men and the promotion of a spirit of fraternity among the peoples of the earth than the president of the American National Red Cross, who, during the Spanish war, has rendered such valuable and indefatigable service in the cause of humanity.
CAMP THOMAS.
The agent first appointed for Chickamauga Park, was Dr. Charles R. Gill. Shortly afterwards, however, Dr. Gill expressed a desire to go to Cuba, and he was relieved, Mr. E.C. Smith being placed in charge of this field, which proved eventually to be one of the most important stations of the Red Cross. As the demands of the camp increased, Mr. A.M. Smith was sent to assist his brother in the work. Their services have been eminently satisfactory to all concerned, and many voluntary expressions of appreciation have been received. All requisitions for assistance were promptly filled by the Executive Committee in New York, and in addition to the large amount of supplies sent, about $16,000 in cash were expended at the camp. Mr. Smith, in his report on the work done at this camp, says:
The headquarters of the American National Red Cross, at Camp Thomas, Chickamauga Park, Ga., was located alongside the historic Brotherton House, which was in the thickest of the fight in 1863. No array of mere numerals written to express dollars, or tables of figures standing for quantities, could in comprehensive sense tell the story of Red Cross work at Chickamauga, in 1898. The record is written indelibly in the hearts of thousands of soldiers who were stricken with disease on this battlefield, and the story has been told at quiet home firesides in every State of the Union.
All those who have labored in the work of mercy have been repaid a thousandfold in words of thankfulness and appreciation from fevered lips, and the praise of Christian men and women throughout the country. In answer to the petitions of anxious wives, mothers and fathers, and the tender prayers of prattling infants, God put strength in the arms of the noble women who wore the badge of the Red Cross, and made them heroic in an hour of great trial.
It has been testified by the gallant survivors of Santiago, and other sanguinary engagements, that the chief terror was carried to the hearts of our gallant men through the awful silence of the enemy’s bullets, and the mystery which enshrouded their position because of the use of smokeless powder, leaving no mark for retaliation. Here in Chickamauga, men fell from the ranks day after day, who seemed to have been
When the plague descended on the camp, and a full realization of present and impending horrors was forced upon all intelligent minds, frantic efforts were made to stay the progress of the destroyer, but the seeds had been sown, and the epidemic was fated to run its course. It seemed incongruous that such a spot should be so afflicted; in all the wide continent there is no fairer place. The valley stretching between Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge is one of the most beautiful of all the fertile valleys of the world; sunshine and shade here mingle to satisfy every sense. Our boys entered the park joyfully, and all who should have known of the requirements of a camp, pronounced it an ideal spot. There was no adequate preparation for the unexpected, which some say “always happens.” The action of the Red Cross redeemed the situation. Stephen E. Barton, chairman of the Executive Committee, promptly authorized measures to alleviate suffering, to quote the language of the authorization, “without stint.” Elias Charles Smith, the field agent of the Red Cross, acting at once on the orders of his superior, proceeded to find ways, the means being furnished. Milk and ice were the chief requisites. All the farming country surrounding the camp was called upon to supply the milk, some of it coming from as far as Biltmore, N.C., from the celebrated dairy of a millionaire.
The ice came from Chattanooga, and both ice and milk were supplied without delay, with no red tape, no halting, “without stint,” to the sick. Requisitions for carloads of delicacies were sent by telegraph, and when the needs were urgent the goods came, not by freight but by express. Soups, wines, fruit, and in fact every conceivable article that could contribute to the comfort and recovery of the sick was sent for, dispatched, received and distributed. There were no “middle men” to question or quibble about the advisability of things being done, no halting and haggling about how things should be done. The field agent of the Red Cross ascertained the urgent necessities of the sick, through the best official sources, and—presto!—the necessities were on the ground and in use.
The problem of nursing was coincident. Men in the division and other hospitals were willing, no doubt, but there was “lack of
The Red Cross Auxiliary No. 3 of New York, through the agency of Miss Maud Cromlein in the field, took up this work. At one time there were 140 young women graduate nurses in the service of the Red Cross in this camp, mainly at Sternberg Hospital. How to care for this large number of refined young women, unused to the hardships of camp life, was a serious problem. Dormitories were built to shelter them, and furnished for their comfort. A contract was made with a steam laundry at Chattanooga to wash their clothing and everything possible was done to make their stay at least endurable. Some fell sick, of course, and were tenderly cared for or furloughed and sent to their homes. Under the direction of Miss Maxwell a perfect system was established in all the work, which commanded the respect and approbation of the medical officers. Diet kitchens were introduced, and the sick were furnished with every necessary delicacy.
It is now a matter of history that this first organized experiment of using women in large numbers as nurses in a field hospital has been an unqualified success. It has the official approval of the medical officers of the government from Surgeon-General Sternberg to the smallest, humblest subaltern.
The Red Cross did not confine its efforts to the help of nurses wearing the Red Cross. At the old Third Division First Corps Hospital, afterward called Sanger, Sisters of Charity and Sisters of Mercy ministered to the sick. The same attention was given to them; all requisitions for milk and ice and delicacies were promptly filled. One of these noble women, Sister Stella Boyle, wrote, “We are overwhelmed with your kindness—what should we have done without the Red Cross!” Leiter Hospital received the same help; milk and ice and delicacies were furnished “promptly and without stint.” That was the watchword. And so with the regimental hospitals; the surgeons in charge made requisition for necessary supplies and they were forthcoming, even to the day of the departure of the last troops from the camp, the hospital trains being supplied as well. Thus the Red Cross followed the sick to the doors of their own homes.
The Christian women of Chattanooga belonging to the Epworth League and the churches of that city, did a greatly needed work in establishing hospitals for the care of sick soldiers enroute. They were amazed and delighted when they learned they could make requisition on the Red Cross for necessary supplies.
There are still 200 sick at Sternberg and 50 at Leiter, but these will soon I hope be furloughed and returned to their homes.
All who have represented the Red Cross at Chickamauga have worked with the greatest self-denial and enthusiasm with full appreciation of the lofty aims of the society and with personal pride. When the roll of honor is made up, I know of no name that should be omitted.
JACKSONVILLE, FLA.
At Jacksonville, Fla., the work at the camp was under the direction of the Rev. Alexander Kent, of Washington, D.C., who has been a member of the American National Red Cross for many years. He began his duties about the middle of June and, assisted by his son, continued until the order for the abandonment of the camp was issued. The territory covered by this agency included also the camps at Miami and Fernandina. The affairs of the Red Cross in this field were most efficiently conducted and with great credit to Dr. Kent and his assistant. In addition to the medical and hospital supplies and delicacies, which were furnished in great quantities, over thirteen thousand dollars were spent in adding to the comforts of the sick and convalescent. Dr. Kent makes the following interesting report:
On June 16 I arrived in Jacksonville, in company with Miss Clara Barton, then on her way to Key West and Santiago. We visited Camp Cuba Libre in the afternoon, when I enjoyed the great advantage of being presented by Miss Barton to several of the officials as the representative of the Red Cross at this point. On the following morning I visited the hospital—that of the Second Division, the First being at Miami and the Third not formed—where I found what appeared to me to be very distressing and unhealthful conditions. The number of patients at that time was small, but, few as they were, no adequate provision had been made for their comfort. Most of them, indeed, were on cots, but few had either sheets or nightshirts to cover their nakedness. They were either lying in soiled underclothing, sweltering in the heat under army blankets, or destitute of any clothing whatever. I lost no time in ordering one hundred sheets, with the same number of pillow-cases and ticks, having assurance from one of the surgeons that the latter could be readily filled with moss and pine needles, making a comfort-giving and healthful pillow. By the time this need was met I learned that the sick were destitute of suitable food, so I made it my next business to provide a sufficiency of this. No sooner had I begun this work than I had to face the fact that the hospital had no proper facilities for cooking this food and no place in which to care for it and keep it cool and sweet when prepared. So I purchased a large Blue Flame oil stove and a No. 6 Alaska ice chest. I soon discovered that
Of individual beneficence the most marked examples were Mrs. Marshall, proprietor of the Carleton Hotel; Mrs. Moulton, wife of Colonel Moulton, of the Second Illinois, and Mrs. Rich, a quiet, modest lady of this city. These gave their whole time to the work of devising ways and means for promoting the comfort and health of the sick. They made chicken broth, ice cream, wine jellies and a variety of delicacies grateful to the palates of the sick soldiers. Other Jacksonville ladies did much in this direction, but these ladies were constant and untiring in their efforts. Though Mrs. Marshall had many of the soldiers cared for free of charge at her own hotel, never for a day was she absent from the camp. She was a veritable ministering angel, and the Red Cross is greatly indebted to her for much of the information that helped us to give wisely and when most needed. Through Mrs. Moulton many of the good people of Chicago bestowed their benefactions. Five days out of every week found Mrs. Rich at one of the division hospitals, making her ice cream for the boys and giving them a taste of her delicious wine jellies. When the Red Cross learned of her excellent work it took pains to keep her supplied with all needed material, beside furnishing a twenty-five quart ice cream freezer with which to do her work. All of these women deserve a more extended and a worthier tribute than we can pay them in this report.
We have spent here over thirteen thousand dollars in cash for hospital equipment and supplies of various kinds, including ice and milk, in addition to the large quantities of goods sent from New York the cost of which we do not know. And with all this, the need has not been met as fully or as promptly as it should have been. The number of the sick increased so greatly beyond the expectations of the officers in charge that the supply has never, for any considerable time, been equal to the demand. Even now, when the government has allowed sixty cents a day for each patient in the hospital, and has recently so extended the order as to include regimental as well as division hospitals, there is still continuous appeal to the Red Cross for a variety of things, which those in charge of the hospital fund do not feel warranted in buying, and as yet few of the regiments have gotten their hospitals into shape to ask for anything. As they move to Savannah in a few days, they will not be in condition to draw any money for weeks to come. It is very fortunate therefore, that your committee has seen fit to grant our last requisition, for the goods you have shipped will be of great benefit to the soldiers on their way to Cuba.
I have omitted to state that a most important part of the work of the Red Cross has been the supplying of ice for the purpose of cooling the drinking water of the camps. Our ice bills for camp and hospitals, at an average of thirty-five cents per hundred pounds have been over six thousand dollars, the Second Division hospital alone often consuming from four to five tons a day. Our milk bills were also large, averaging for some time over five hundred dollars a week, at a cost of forty cents a gallon.
Our relations with both army and medical officials have been, on the
I have said nothing of our work at Miami or Fernandina, for there is little to say. The troops were moved from Miami so soon after we were made acquainted with their needs, that we did little more than supply the hospital with ice, during the weeks in which the sick were convalescing. We were not permitted to do even this at Fernandina. Those in charge of the hospitals, division and regimental, disclaimed all need of aid. The government supplied them with all that they required. We have had many testimonies from officers and privates, showing the profound appreciation everywhere felt for the work of the Red Cross. Perhaps no other part of its work was so highly prized by the soldiers at large as that which furnished them cool drinking water.
Had the chief-surgeon, Colonel Maus, not been so deeply prejudiced against female nurses in general, and Red Cross nurses in particular, we might have done a much greater work in the hospitals
Early in August Mr. D.L. Cobb, on a tour of inspection, arrived at Fort McPherson, Georgia, to see if any assistance was required at the post, and if an agency could be established. It was found that Mrs. Anna E. Nave, wife of Rev. Orville J. Nave, chaplain of the post, and their daughter, Miss Hermione Nave, had established a small dietary kitchen and were supporting a table for convalescents. The object of the kitchen was to provide light and nutritive diet for the soldiers in the barracks who were suffering from stomach troubles, dysentery and kindred digestive disorders, and to care for the convalescents from typhoid fever and other serious sickness, until they were sufficiently recovered to be again returned to the company mess.
As this kitchen was performing an important part in the care of the men, and the demands upon it were daily increasing, it was proposed that it be continued, and its work extended as the demands increased, and that the Red Cross would pay all expenses and furnish all the supplies required. Rev. Orville J. Nave was accordingly appointed as the field agent at Fort McPherson, the kitchen remaining under the immediate care and supervision of Mrs. Nave and her daughter, assisted by a committee of representative women of the city of Atlanta, including Mrs. Governor Atkinson, Miss Mary L. Gordon-Huntley, Mrs. Loulie M. Gordon, Miss Junia McKinley, Mrs. E.H. Barnes, and others.
Under the auspices of the Red Cross the capacity of the kitchen was soon doubled, and the table was maintained until the first of October, when assistance was no longer necessary. At the table about 20,000 meals were served. By this means doubtless many lives were saved, for the percentage of relapses among the typhoid fever cases, ordinarily quite large, was very small at this post. In addition to the supplies of food, medicines and clothing sent to this field, in response to the requisitions, some $1400 in cash were expended in support of the table and in furnishing those things which were at times needed quickly, and which could be purchased in the local markets at Atlanta.
A stenographer was also furnished, so that Dr. Nave might be able to answer the many inquiries from parents and relatives of men in the hospitals, and attend to the ordinary correspondence connected
The importance of this work, as a supplement to that done by the government for the relief of the sick, cannot be overstated. An institution, such as an army hospital, deals with the sick by masses. Much must be left to subordinates, many of whom have little or no experience in caring for the sick. The system is devised for the many. But, where many are sick, a percentage of the patients cannot regain health without special care. The work done by the Red Cross at Fort McPherson was that which could not be done effectually by institutional methods. Furthermore, those who assisted in the work were actuated solely by philanthropic motives. They therefore brought elements to their work that employes too often lack, elements of gentleness and love. Two thousand soldiers in as many homes, nursed back to health, live to love and honor the Red Cross in memory of the helping hand sent to them and administered through the hospital at Fort McPherson. The total cash expenditures, including the cost of maintaining the kitchen, was $2242.
To Dr. Nave, his wife and daughter, and to the Atlanta Committee of the Red Cross, great credit is due for the efficient manner in which the auxiliary work at this point was carried on. Acting with discretion, and with loyalty to the principles of the Red Cross, they have carried their work to a successful conclusion without a complaint from any source.
CAMP HOBSON, GA.
At Camp Hobson, Lithia Springs, Ga., a diet kitchen was also maintained, under the direction of Miss Junia McKinley, assisted by the Atlanta Committee of the Red Cross, of which the following account is received:
The diet kitchen was opened here on Monday, August 9, and remained in operation three weeks, at the expiration of which time the camp broke up. During the first week after the kitchen was established, when detachments from the Sixth, Seventh, Eighth, Twenty-first and Twenty-fifth regiments were in camp, 1176 meals were served. The next week orders were received for the removal of the Eighth and part of the other regiments to Montauk Point, consequently the number of convalescents was reduced, but during the second and third week 2066 meals were served, making a total of 3242 meals served at the table and in the hospital during the time the kitchen was in operation. The meals were furnished to convalescents in the hospital, men relieved from duty but not sick enough to be in the hospital, and to the hospital corps. The table meals consisted of the following: For breakfast, cereals, coffee, tea, fresh milk, eggs, toast, bread and butter. For dinner, soups, bouillons, rice and milk, eggs, crackers, bread and fresh milk, coffee, California fruits (canned), wine, jelly or simple dessert. Supper was the same as breakfast, with the addition of stewed fruit. To patients in hospital, beef tea (made from fresh beef as well as extracts), soft-boiled eggs, cream toast and fresh milk was served at regular hours.
The only paid help were two men and one woman, the latter lived near the camp and reported for duty at first meal call and remained until dining tent and kitchen were in order. The other work in kitchen was gratuitously done by Atlanta members of Red Cross Society, assisted by Mrs. Edward H. Barnes, Miss Loulie Gordon Roper (niece of General J.B. Gordon), Miss Emmie McDonnell, Miss Estelle Whelan, Mrs. George Boykin Saunders, all of Atlanta, and the ladies from Sweetwater Park Hotel, who came over daily from the hotel, about half a mile distant from camp, and assisted in serving table meals, also in carrying delicacies to hospitals and distributed flowers among the patients.
Besides the regular kitchen work at Camp Hobson, the Red Cross furnished for a short time to the hospitals one special nurse (Miss McKinley) and one trained nurse (Miss McLain), who remained until our last patients were sent to Fort McPherson General Hospital and went with them in the hospital train, ministering to their wants until they were transferred to their respective wards there. In this connection we think proper to state that many of our Camp Hobson patients now in Fort McPherson Hospital, one of the best equipped and best managed hospitals in the country, assure us that they can never forget the unfailing kindness of Chief Surgeon Swift and assistants, the faithful care of their Red Cross nurses, nor the delicacies furnished by the diet kitchen at Camp Hobson.
The Red Cross having authorized Miss McKinley to furnish anything necessary for the sick, medicines, fine whiskey and hospital supplies were ordered by telephone from Atlanta, as there was some delay in shipment of government supplies, the orders were promptly filled and proved important factors in improving hospital wards. Clothing was furnished to some of the Camp Hobson men who were left behind and could not draw needed articles of clothing as their “descriptive lists” had not been furnished. When the Twenty-first Regiment left for the North coffee was served on the train to the entire regiment in second section. Most of the ice used after the diet kitchen was established was furnished through Mr. Percy R. Pyne, of New York, who kindly supplied what was needed. Thanks are due G.F. Matthews & Co., of New York, who wrote that they would furnish all the tea needed in the kitchen, but as the camp was about to break up, their kind offer was not accepted.
Special thanks are due to H.W. Blake, manager of Sweetwater Park Hotel at Lithia Springs, for many courtesies extended, when our milkman was late, or our groceries (ordered from Atlanta) were delayed, he furnished fresh milk and eggs for the patients until our supplies arrived. Mrs. Blake sent daily from the beautiful hotel
In conclusion, we can venture to assure you that while the time of our work at Camp Hobson was short, great good was accomplished, the improvement of convalescents who took meals at the kitchen was very rapid, owing to the well prepared and nourishing food furnished them. The surgeons, as well as hospital stewards, were much gratified at marked improvement in hospital wards after the arrival of Red Cross nurses.
Upon the departure of every hospital train, we served iced milk to fever patients, milk toast to those not restricted to liquid diet, and supplied milk and stimulants for their journey. We thank the Red Cross for the privilege of assisting in their relief work for our soldiers at Camp Hobson, whose appreciation for all that was done for them was unbounded and their gratitude a delight for those who ministered to their wants.
ST. PAUL, MINN.
The story of the Red Cross of St. Paul, Minn., is briefly told in the report by Miss Caroline M. Beaumont, the recording secretary:
The St. Paul Red Cross Aid Society was organized on the ninth of May, 1898, shortly after the beginning of the war, pursuant to a general call for aid, with Mr. A.S. Tallmadge as president, and a full board of officers. It was at first intended to form a regular auxiliary of the Red Cross, directly tributary to the National Organization, and distribute supplies through headquarters only. But the fact that the State volunteer regiments were actually in need of immediate aid to equip them to leave for points of mobilization, induced the society to turn their attention to local needs first.
The Twelfth, Thirteenth and Fourteenth Minnesota Volunteers were first furnished with hospital supplies, delicacies for the sick, and all those necessary articles which the government does not supply, or furnishes only in meagre quantities. Working headquarters were established, requests for donations were published which met with immediate response, which testified to the generosity of the citizens of St. Paul and surrounding towns. Successful entertainments were also given, sewing and packing committees were appointed, and women from all over the city gave freely of their means, their time and their efforts, as they thought of a husband, a son or a dear one in far away Cuba or Manila. The patriotism and loyalty of the men of Minnesota was shared and often inspired by the women who gave so freely. The women of St. Paul with willing hands and loving hearts, have shared in the glories of the war, and the sorrows of personal loss has been mitigated by pride of race, and the love of a country that has borne such soldiers and sailors as our brave boys.
Not in Minnesota alone, but in all the States, the willing hands and loving hearts of the women of America have been among the foremost in affording relief to the sick and wounded. At home in the auxiliaries, in the hospitals, on the transports and at the front, wherever sickness and suffering called.
Early in the campaign they seemed to awaken to the true meaning and the great mission of the Red Cross, and, setting before them the standard, they have followed it from one field of suffering to another. True soldiers of humanity, they have labored earnestly and incessantly, and have proven themselves worthy to wear the emblem of their loving, faithful service—the Red Cross of Geneva.
MONTAUK POINT, L.I.
At the request of the New York Relief Committee, the executive committee of the Red Cross appointed Mr. Howard Townsend as the field agent at Montauk Point, Long Island, under whose supervision the work of the Red Cross at this important station was admirably conducted. Mr. Townsend in his report says:
The Red Cross appeared on the ground on Sunday, August 7, 1898, and its representative remained there permanently after August 10. The first, and in some respects the most important work, was the delivery of a daily supply of pure water to the government officials at the camp. For the first ten days the most serious problem was how to obtain good water, and until the great well was dug, the hospitals were supplied by the Red Cross. Ten thousand gallons of Hygeia water were delivered at the camp, and four tank cars brought daily from Jamaica sufficient spring water to prevent a water famine.
There was important work to be done also in connection with the general hospital, furnishing to it such supplies as were rendered necessary by the hurry and confusion of the first two weeks of the camp’s existence. Cots, clothing, bed-clothing, household appliances and cooking utensils, refrigerators and other articles, in short a large part of the things necessary for a hospital. All of these things were promptly supplied, through the quick communication established with the Red Cross supply depot in New York City, and the system of placing orders by telegraph, by which supplies most needed were often on hand within a few hours after the need was discovered.
Delicacies, fruits and milk were furnished to the hospitals until the government itself was able to meet the demand in this direction. Although the quarantine regulations prevented the Red Cross from being in constant attendance at the detention hospital, yet we kept it abundantly supplied with delicacies, and quite often with necessities. Many tons of supplies were furnished, including food, clothing and stimulants.
The necessity arising for trained nurses at the general hospital, the services of twenty trained women nurses were offered about August 16, their salaries and all expenses to be paid by the Red Cross. The Secretary of War promptly directed the acceptance of the offer, although
The Red Cross yacht arrived at Camp Wyckoff on the eleventh of August with the first load of supplies. The boat was furnished for the use of the Red Cross by the Relief Committee of the Red Cross in New York. This vessel is admirably fitted for carrying a small number of sick people, and was offered to the government by the relief committee, and has been in steady use as a hospital ship, conveying fifteen invalids at a time to the various hospitals along the Connecticut coast and in New York City.
After the first confusion incident to the establishment of the camp, the Red Cross extended its field to include a visit to the regimental hospitals, which were discovered to be in great need of food and equipment suitable for sick, particularly in the hospitals of the infantry divisions. The assistant agent, Dr. Brewer, and Mr. Samuel Parrish, of Southampton, N.Y., devoted themselves particularly to daily visits to the regiments, and were able to materially help the regimental surgeons in their discouraging work, hampered as they were by lack of medical stores and equipment.
The auxiliary for the maintenance of trained nurses sent to the camp Mrs. Willard, a dietary expert, who, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Volunteer Aid Association, and with the assistance of Dr. Prescott, established diet kitchens in the various hospitals, and supplied the patients with such satisfactory diet that the government agreed to pay the expense of this part of the work.
Another branch of work was carried on by the Red Cross and which appealed particularly to the sick, which was an attempt made to answer, each day, inquiries from all parts of the country concerning men from whom their relatives and friends had heard nothing perhaps since the army left Cuba.
Another division of the work was that concerning the feeding of the sick and hungry men arriving on the transports. Dr. Magruder,
At the railroad dock an important part of this work was carried on. There Dr. and Mrs. Valentine Mott were stationed day after day as the transports unloaded their men. Captain Edwards, of the First United States Cavalry, had already volunteered to aid and, by order of Major-General Young, he was permitted to have his men assist. Every regiment that landed stacked arms, and in single file passed by a tent, erected by the military officials, where each man was given a glass of milk, or a cup of beef tea, and in some instances the men volunteered the statement that they were too weak to have marched to the hospital, and could have gone no further but for this friendly help at the dock.
In the meantime, at the railway station, the men going on sick furlough frequently collapsed just before the departure of the train, or became faint through want of food. Here the Red Cross arranged that every sick man should be supplied with milk, and, where it was necessary, given a few ounces of whiskey, so as to enable him to continue his journey. The increasing number of furloughed men required the establishment of an emergency hospital near the railway station, and this was installed in two tents erected for the Red Cross by the army officers.
These tents at times sheltered for the night as many as twenty sick men who were unable to catch the train, and who would otherwise have been obliged to sit up in the station until morning. This work, and the emergency hospital, were under the charge of Miss Martha Draper.
Owing to the cheerful recognition given to the Red Cross, when the camp was first opened, due to the courtesy of Major-General Young, the Red Cross was able to enter into a far broader sphere of usefulness than would otherwise have been possible. We are also particularly indebted to Captain Chase, of the Third Cavalry, Captain Guilfoyle, of the Ninth Cavalry, and Captain Fuller, of the First Cavalry, for their constant endeavors to aid the representatives of the Red Cross in carrying out their work of supplementing the efforts of the government, to relieve the suffering and in ministering to the comfort of the men and officers of the Fifth Army Corps.
THE PACIFIC COAST.
The States of the Pacific coast, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada and others, have taken a very prominent part in the relief work during the war, under the Red Cross. It is yet too soon to write the story of the great service they have rendered, for the work still continues and only partial reports are at hand. In the latter part of June the following letter was received by the chairman of the executive committee of the Red Cross, from Mrs. L.L. Dunbar, secretary of the Red Cross of San Francisco:
Dear Sir:—Referring to my letter of a few days since, I enclose herewith summary of the Red Cross work in California to date, which I trust will prove of interest to you.
You will note that there has been a generous response by the citizens of California to the call for funds with which to establish the work of the Red Cross.
This society seems to have sprung into life fully equipped for any emergency. Committees have been formed. Ten to twelve thousand dollars on hand available for further use; soldiers welcomed on arrival with friendly words and good cheer; none have left the port of entry for their long march to the camping ground without a good breakfast furnished by the Red Cross; further comforts provided while in camp, and physical welfare carefully looked after.
Without working on constitutional lines, not having to this date received details of the plan of operation as carried out under the rules or regulations of the American National Red Cross, we have adopted common sense methods as seem proper in war times, or as would suggest themselves in case of any great public calamity, not standing on the order of doing, but doing as occasion seems to require.
The primary movement toward organization was the result of a desire to equip our National Guard to a war footing, it having been pointed out to a few leaders in charitable and patriotic work after the first call for troops that the need existed for medical supplies and surgical appliances in the National Guard to properly outfit them to meet all contingencies. At that time they were not aware that the Spaniards were so poor at target practice as they proved to be at Manila. While it is the province of the State to supply above needs, the Legislature was not in session, time was limited, ships for Manila were soon to sail, therefore it seemed proper not to wait on uncertain legislation, and it was resolved and immediately made effective to supply above needs which was done, involving the expenditure of three thousand dollars.
Referring to the minutes of the Red Cross Society of San Francisco, we find a communication was forwarded to Washington, placing all resources at the service of the government. The supplies for the National Guard, mentioned above, were
The matter of sending an expedition to the Philippines was discussed, but as we got along in our work we found to do effective work in this connection it was necessary to have the authority of the government through the American National Red Cross, and my previous letter upon this subject explains in detail our views in regard to this expedition. This will remain in statu quo until we hear further from you.
We furnished twenty thousand bandages to the troops, made after patterns given to us by the army officers. We arranged with several of the hospitals here to receive and care for very sick men, and they have been generous in this respect. The French hospital has been very kind. That you may see the scope of our work, we have the following committees at work harmoniously under the intelligent direction of a most efficient chairman, aided by the noble work on the part of their assistants: Hospital Committee, Finance Committee, Nursing Committee, Subscription Committee, Society Badge Committee, Identification Medal Committee, Printing, Entertainments, Hospitality, Press, Information, Auditing, Stores, Ambulance, Schools, Clubs. From this you will see that the field has been very comprehensively covered, and as a sample of the work of each committee, I enclose herewith the report of the Nursing Committee, from which you can judge the nature of the work and how it is conducted by each committee, and I trust that this will give you the information required to judge what has been done here, and we would be glad to receive such suggestions from you in reference to this matter as you, from your large experience, may find necessary to make.
We hope that your representative will visit San Francisco to confer with the State Association. It seems to us necessary.
In response to this appeal it was decided to send a representative of the American National Red Cross to confer with the proposed societies of the Pacific Coast, to acquaint them with the rules governing the Red Cross in time of war, to explain the relationship that exists between such societies and the national body, and to accord to them official recognition, so that they might proceed as regular auxiliaries of the Red Cross.
THE RED CROSS OF CALIFORNIA.
The Red Cross of California has, perhaps, been the most prominent in war relief on the coast, and in the islands of the Pacific. To add to the comforts of the men, and to assist in the care of the sick and wounded, the people of the State of California have contributed, and expended through their own auxiliaries of the Red Cross, over one hundred thousand dollars. I here insert, as an example of the work done by the people of the Pacific Coast, the report of one of the leading central State organizations, the California Red Cross:
The beginning of Red Cross organization and work in California can best be told in the reports of the San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley and other societies, as they existed some little time before the State Association was formed. In less than one month after the organization of the San Francisco Red Cross, the necessity for a central organization through which the many societies forming throughout the State could work intelligently, became apparent. All were desirous of doing something to aid the “Boys in Blue,” and realizing the truth of the old statement, “In union there is strength,” it was decided to form a State organization, which all Red Cross Societies would be invited to join. An advisory council met on May 16, in the Occidental Hotel, and the question of a State organization was thoroughly discussed. On May 25 the council again met and final steps were taken toward organizing a State Association. It was resolved that the governing body of the association should be an executive board, consisting of fifteen members, six of whom should be from San Francisco, four from Alameda County and five from the State at large, and that the headquarters should be in San Francisco.
Pursuant to this resolution the following were elected an executive board: Mrs. W.B. Harrington, Mrs. W.R. Smedberg, Mrs. J. F. Merrill, Mrs. E.R. Dimond, Mrs. L.L. Dunbar, of San Francisco; Mrs. J.M. Griffith, of Los AngelÉs; Mrs. Granville Abbott and Mr. F.B. Ginn, of Oakland; Mrs. G.W. Haight, of Berkeley; Mrs. S.A. O’Neill, of Alameda; Mrs. A. Elkuss, of Sacramento, and Mrs. W. Baker, of Marin County; leaving two vacancies, which were later filled by Mrs. S.F. Lieb, of San Jose, and Mrs. D.H. Webster, of Fresno. Several changes have occurred in the board since its formation. Mrs. Merrill, having been elected President of the San Francisco
Later the positions of second and third vice-presidents were created and Mrs. Long was elected second vice-president and Mrs. Elkus third vice-president. Mrs. Louis Weinman was elected corresponding secretary. Mrs. Dimond, who had been in the work since its inception, was compelled to resign on account of ill health, early in September, her positions both as a member of the board and as assistant treasurer, the vacancies being filled by the election of Mrs. Weinman, Miss Miriam K. Wallis being elected corresponding secretary in place of Mrs. Weinman. It was with sincere regret that Mrs. Dimond’s resignation was received, her work, both as assistant treasurer and as a member of the board, having been most satisfactory.
Shortly after the formation of the State Association, through the kindness of Mrs. P.A. Hearst, two rooms were given us rent free in the Examiner Building for headquarters. We owe a very large debt of gratitude to Mrs. Hearst, and take this occasion to thank her most sincerely for her kindness. Since its organization the executive board has held twenty-three meetings, besides these there have been two meetings of the association.
One of the first steps taken by the board was to open a correspondence with the American National Red Cross, with a view to becoming an auxiliary to the parent organization, and also to gain official information in regard to the work of the Red Cross.
While awaiting a reply to our communication a constitution was framed and adopted. A circular letter was prepared, giving information in regard to the formation of auxiliary societies, the conditions of membership in the State Association and other matters of detail. This circular letter, the constitutions of the State Association and the San Francisco Red Cross, and a form of constitution for local societies were printed in pamphlet form and sent to all Red Cross societies throughout the State, also to societies in Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, Dakota,
Judge Joseph Sheldon, the promised delegate, arrived about the middle of July; he informed himself fully as to what had been done; expressed his surprise that without definite knowledge of the work of the American National Red Cross, we had planned our work so closely on its lines. Being satisfied with the work, Judge Sheldon recognized California Red Cross State Association as an auxiliary to the American National Red Cross. Leaving each auxiliary to tell its own story of the work it has done, we shall give an account of our own stewardship.
With the first expedition, two finely trained nurses, Messrs. Waage and Lewis, were sent by the San Francisco Red Cross to Manila. The splendid work of these men, who gave up lucrative positions, and volunteered their services, has been told over and over again in letters received from both officers and men. Following the formation of the State Association, it was decided that it should take charge of the nurses, and Mrs. Wendell Easton, chairman of the Committee on Nurses, transferred her work to the State Society. Through the efforts of Mrs. Easton, aided by Dr. Beverly Cole, a course of lectures and clinics was arranged. Fifty or sixty enthusiastic men and women were in daily attendance on these lectures. Drs. Cole, Kugeler, McCone, Rixford, Stafford, Somers and Weill gave much of their valuable time to this work, and aided Mrs. Easton greatly. The sincere thanks of the society are again extended to them.
It was not until the fourth expedition was ordered to Manila that an opportunity was given us to send more nurses. Mrs. Easton reported four good men available, Dr. F.J. Hart, Leon Crowther, Eugene Rosenthal and O.H.J. Schlott, all of whom were engaged at once. It being deemed advisable, and strongly urged by army surgeons, it was decided to establish on the arrival of this expedition at Manila a Field Hospital. A financial agent, and a steward who would take charge of the bulk of the supplies for such a hospital, and such funds as the society should see fit to place at his disposal, being a necessity,
In Mr. Schlott’s care was also sent the greater portion of an equipment for a Field Hospital of 125 beds, and supplies sufficient for five or six months’ use. The balance of the equipment was sent on the “Scandia,” as there was not sufficient room on the “Rio Janeiro.” Five hundred dollars was placed in the Hong-Kong and Shanghai Bank to be drawn upon by Mr. Schlott. We have received letters telling of the excellent work done by our nurses on the ships. All have arrived in Manila and our Field Hospital has been established. A cablegram signed by Majors McCarthy and Woodruff, surgeons, was received recently apprising us of the success of the work. The State Association had now sent six nurses to the front. Not nearly enough considering the reports of sickness among the troops; it was therefore decided, if possible, to send more. The great desire of the board was to send women nurses as well as men.
In the earlier stages of our work, it was decided to take initiatory steps toward securing a hospital ship for the Pacific Coast, but in response to telegrams sent to the President, and Secretaries of War and Navy, we were assured that such a ship would be furnished by the government, and the matter was dropped. In August, the ships “Scandia” and “Arizona” were purchased by the government, to be used for transportating troops and government hospital supplies to Manila and to return as hospital ships. We were notified that we could send nurses on these ships and steps were taken at once to secure them. Shortly after, the office was thrown into a commotion by the announcement from General Merriam that a limited number of women nurses would be sent. Mrs. Easton had a long list of names of nurses who had offered their services and were ready to go at a moment’s notice. Eight of these were: Misses Garlick, Smythe, Ralph, Elsifer, Laswell, Shaefer, Mrs. Palm, and Mrs. Leman. The men selected were: Drs. Ross, Caldwell, Dwight, and Messrs Leonard, Durst, Kibbel, Heyl, and Tanner. Four were sent on the “Scandia,” the remaining twelve on the “Arizona.” We were rejoiced at being able to send the women nurses and feel sure they will do excellent work. As many of the nurses as are needed will remain on duty at the Field Hospital, the others will return with the ships, caring for the sick men being sent back.
No provision having been made by the government, for the care of convalescent soldiers, who upon leaving the hospital went back to their tents and in their weakened condition in many instances contracted cold or suffered relapses that perhaps resulted in death, it was decided to secure a home where convalescent men could have better care. An effort was made to secure a suitable house in the neighborhood of the Presidio. This being impossible, upon consultation with the military authorities, it was decided to build a house at the Presidio. General Miller looked over the ground and selected the most eligible spot. The idea of erecting the home was taken up most enthusiastically by the auxiliaries, and the money required was soon in the treasury. Messrs Newsom and Meyers kindly donated plans and in three weeks from the day of starting, it was finished. It is a one story building, containing a large ward, four small rooms, dining and sitting room combined, kitchen, office, storerooms, two bath rooms, etc. The large ward accommodates twenty beds, the fourth room is used by the nurses.
Requests came quickly from both private individuals and auxiliaries to be allowed to completely furnish one or more beds, so that by the time the building was finished the furnishings were ready. Fourteen patients were admitted the day of opening and within a few days every bed was occupied. It is a most inviting and homelike place, exquisitely neat, with health-giving sunlight pouring in all day. Trained nurses are in attendance night and day and everything possible is done to bring back health and strength. The happiness of the boys is unbounded, and their expressions of joy are pathetic. “It’s most like heaven” was one boy’s sentiment. It is talked of in the Division Hospital and is the goal to which the sick men look forward. Miss McKinstry who has been superintendent since the opening, has done splendid work. She received no compensation whatever, other than the gratitude of her charges and the high commendation of the surgeons.
The sincere thanks of the executive board are extended to Miss McKinstry, and it is with deep regret that her resignation, which she was compelled to send in because of illness in her family, was accepted. Sixty-three men have been cared for in the home, and thirty-seven discharged. They are under the care of Major Surgeon Matthews, of the Division Hospital, who regulates their coming and going. He
All of the troops leaving for Manila have been supplied with identification medals by the State Society, irrespective of the States from which they came. In several instances the money expended for these has been refunded by either the governor of the State, or Red Cross societies. The executive board desires to express its sincere appreciation of the aid it has received from its auxiliaries. All have responded promptly and royally to our calls for aid, which have only been made when absolutely necessary. It has been our endeavor to expend all money sent to us as carefully and judiciously as possible, considering the trust placed in us as sacred. Our treasurer’s report will show how the money has been expended. Not a dollar has been paid for the services of our women since the organization of the association. We have been in the office from 9 a.m. until 5 and 6 p.m., gladly giving our time and strength for the cause.
We have endeavored in all our work not to transgress army regulations. To that end our president has held many conferences with Generals Merritt and Merriam, as well as the surgeons in charge. They have aided us courteously and kindly in our work, and have granted us all the privileges possible, for which we are most grateful. We have also kept in touch with the American National Red Cross, and have reported our work fully.
The parent organization has shown its confidence in us by delegating the work in the Philippines to our association. Mr. Barton, the chairman of the executive board and vice-president of the American National Red Cross, has referred all societies in the West to us, advising them to work through the California Red Cross. We have in our membership a society in Pocatello, Idaho; one in Almo, Idaho; one in Corvallis, Oregon; and one in Beatrice, Nebraska.
The Elko (Nevada) Red Cross has withdrawn to become an auxiliary of their own State organization. Two societies have disbanded, their members were only summer residents, who have returned to their city homes. It is our earnest desire that our auxiliary societies will not disband, feeling that the war is over. We have assumed certain obligations in establishing the Field Hospital at Manila, as well as the Convalescent Home at the Presido, and our work cannot cease at this time. We sincerely hope the auxiliaries will stand loyally by us as they have done in the past.
A short time since, an appeal was made for a regular monthly
The thanks of the executive board are extended to the Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company for the free use of the telephones; to the Western Union Telegraph Company for the free use of their wires in the State; to Wells, Fargo & Co., and the Southern Pacific Railroad Company for free transportation of supplies. Our demands upon them have been heavy, and were generously granted. To the press of San Francisco we are most deeply indebted for the generous and courteous treatment we have received, and we extend our sincere thanks. To the 20,000 people of California, wearing the little badge of membership in the Red Cross, we extend cordial greetings and thanks for their kind interest in our work.
We have been helped more than we can tell by the kind words and expression of confidence from our auxiliaries. How well we have done our work, we leave you to judge.
Consolidated Financial Statement of the Red Cross of California.
While this statement is incomplete, inasmuch as reports from all the local auxiliaries have not yet been received, it illustrates how universal was the organization of the Red Cross in one of the States of the far West:
| PLACE. | RECEIPTS. | EXPENSES. | BALANCE. | |
| California Red Cross State Association, Cal. | $22,119.74 | $10,472.63 | $11,647.11 | |
| Red Cross Society, San Francisco, Cal. | 55,408.83 | 33,434.18 | 21,974.65 | |
| ””” | San Jose, Cal. | 2,274.66 | 1,465.03 | 809.63 |
| ””” | Lompoc, Cal. | 234.70 | 124.35 | 110.35 |
| ””” | Palo Alto, Cal. | 222.90 | 153.15 | 69.75 |
| ””” | Ventura, Cal. | 193.40 | 179.95 | 13.45 |
| ””” | San Leandro, Cal. | 73.50 | 69.65 | 3.85 |
| ””” | Centerville, Cal. | 165.90 | 133.55 | 2.35 |
| ””” | Suisun, Cal. | 405.80 | 154.65 | 251.15 |
| ””” | Tulare, Cal. | 55.70 | 53.45 | 2.25 |
| ””” | Sacramento, Cal. | 6,373.43 | 2,749.75 | 3,623.68 |
| ””” | Mendocino, Cal. | 105.10 | 102.29 | 2.81 |
| ””” | Grass Valley, Cal. | 787.10 | 571.09 | 216.01 |
| ””” | Berkeley, Cal. | 1,092.91 | 485.37 | 607.54 |
| Sausalito, Cal. | 612.30 | 322.20 | 290.10 | |
| ””” | Redwood City, Cal. | 335.55 | 222.63 | 112.92 |
| ””” | Galt, Cal. | 67.75 | 59.04 | 8.71 |
| ””” | Auburn, Cal. | 257.67 | 200.77 | 56.90 |
| ””” | Santa Cruz, Cal. | 493.45 | 393.60 | 99.85 |
| ””” | San Diego, Cal. | 410.25 | 257.39 | 152.86 |
| ””” | Fresno, Cal. | 326.00 | 292.30 | 33.70 |
| ””” | Los Angeles, Cal. | 2,586.28 | 1,397.92 | 1,188.36 |
| ””” | Walnut Creek, Cal. | 171.75 | 142.28 | 29.47 |
| ””” | Belvedere, Cal. | 310.00 | 192.35 | 117.65 |
| ””” | Martinez, Cal. | 233.31 | 199.80 | 33.51 |
| ””” | Monterey, Cal. | 312.38 | 177.95 | 134.43 |
| ””” | Stockton, Cal. | 316.10 | 176.00 | 140.10 |
| ””” | San Rafael, Cal. | 1,416.55 | 750.10 | 666.45 |
| ””” | Colfax, Cal. | 116.13 | 50.00 | 66.13 |
| ””” | Nevada City, Cal. | 365.05 | 342.77 | 22.28 |
| ””” | Vacaville, Cal. | 211.85 | 141.26 | 70.59 |
| ””” | Calistoga, Cal. | 168.80 | 135.53 | 33.27 |
| ””” | Downieville, Cal. | 43.00 | 25.16 | 17.84 |
| ””” | Willow Glen, Cal. | 97.35 | 52.40 | 44.95 |
| ””” | Hopeland, Cal. | 58.00 | 50.05 | 7.95 |
| ””” | New Almaden, Cal. | 45.00 | 10.10 | 34.90 |
| ””” | Marysville, Cal. | 527.04 | 400.56 | 126.48 |
| ””” | St. Helena, Cal. | 229.05 | 173.25 | 55.80 |
| ””” | Dixon, Cal. | 152.30 | 124.17 | 28.13 |
| ””” | Point Arena, Cal. | 48.00 | 35.00 | 13.00 |
| ””” | Pasadena, Cal. | 382.14 | 298.58 | 83.56 |
| $99,806.72 | $56,772.25 | $43,034.47 | ||
From the Red Cross of Oregon, comes the following report, forwarded by Mrs. Levi Young. In transmitting the report Mrs. Young says: “While it may be longer than desired, still we feel that the eyes of our country have been more particularly turned toward Cuba and the relief work done by the eastern branches, while the Pacific Coast has been doing a work second to none. Conditions here make it difficult to raise the necessary funds, and every dollar expended represents untiring devotion to the cause:”
The call “to arms” was still ringing through the land, when a band of patriotic women responding to an appeal for assistance assembled at the armory in Portland, Oregon, on the morning of April 26, to offer their services to the military board of the State in providing material, aid and comfort for the Second Regiment Oregon Volunteers.
Colonel O. Summers was present and briefly explained the object of the appeal. He suggested that as speedily as possible a society be formed to take up that branch of work which belongs alone to women in time of war and consists in providing the requisites for a soldier’s welfare not laid down in army regulations.
Temporary offices were chosen, and twelve committees were appointed. Each committee consisted of six members, the chairman selecting those she desired as helpers. The duty of each committee was the personal supervision of one company alphabetically assigned to it.
Final organization was perfected April 27, when the following permanent officers were elected: Mrs. Henry E. Jones, president; Mrs. W.A. Buchanan, vice-president; Mrs. F.E. Lounsbury, recording secretary; Mrs. Martin Winch, treasurer. The executive committee, Mrs. O. Summers, Mrs. A. Meier, Mrs. Levi White, Mrs. W.T. Gardner, Mrs. B.E. Miller, Mrs. J.E. Wright, Mrs. E.C. Protzman, Mrs. R.S. Greenleaf, Mrs. G.T. Telfer and Mrs. J.M. Ordway.
The name, “Oregon Emergency Corps,” was adopted and Mrs. W.A. Buchanan, Mrs. Levi Young appointed to draft a constitution. This was presented at the next regular meeting and after a slight revision, unanimously adopted.
“The Oregon Emergency Corps realizing that its aims and objects are far-reaching, will remain a permanent organization to aid not only the brave Oregon Volunteers upon land or sea, but assist in the welfare of the wives and children, many of whom may need care and support while their loved ones are absent.”
In compliance with the provisions of the constitution, the following standing committees were appointed:
Finance Committee.—Mrs. Charles F. Beebe, Mrs. Ben Selling, Mrs. H.W. Goddard.
Auditing Committee.—Mrs. H.W. Wallace, Mrs. James Jackson, Mrs. J. Frank Watson.
Purchasing Committee.—Mrs. H.H. Northrup, Mrs. Adolph Dekum, Mrs. B. Blumauer.
Sewing Committee.—Mrs. Wm. Patterson, Mrs. W.C. Alvord, Mrs. A.E. Rockey, Mrs. E. Nollain, Miss T. Rose Goodman.
Press Committee.—Mrs. Levi Young, Mrs. H.L. Pittock, Miss Ida Loewenberg.
Naval Committee.—Mrs. John Cran, Miss Nina Adams, Miss Zerlina Loewenberg, Miss Carrie Flanders, Miss Lena Brickel.
A suitable badge was adopted and a membership list opened, affording all patriotic women an opportunity to enroll their names and become active workers of the corps. Regular meetings were held at the armory once a week, the executive committee meeting at the call of the president as often as the business of the society required. Being now in readiness for work, the question arose as to what should be done and the most practical way of doing it. To this end the military board was consulted and valuable suggestions received from General Charles F. Beebe, Colonel James Jackson, Colonel B.B. Tuttle and Major Daniel J. Moore, brigade commissary, O.N.G., each advising that a regimental fund for the Second Regiment Oregon Volunteers be raised; also the making and purchasing of such articles for a soldier’s knapsack as army quartermasters do not keep in stock.
A room on First street was placed at the disposal of the society by Mr. Adolph Dekum, and here the Oregon Emergency Corps’ headquarters opened May 5, 1898. Captain R.S. Greenleaf, of Battery A, kindly detailed members of the company to decorate and make attractive the room, loaning for this purpose the historic centennial flag
A telephone was put in by the Oregon Telephone Company, electric lights supplied by the General Electric Company, chairs, tables and other furnishings provided by the business houses of the city. The Singer Machine Company sent sewing machines for the use of the supply committee and work began in earnest. Women from every part of the community representing church, club and society organizations, enrolled their names and offered their services in the emergency call, showing more plainly than words can describe the broadening influence of these organizations upon the mother heart of the land. Laying aside prejudices, creeds and personal affiliations, they became a unit in this patriotic work. Day after day with aching hearts but smiling faces they toiled—the membership grew into the hundreds—subscriptions came pouring in, the sums ranging from $100 to the dimes, nickels and pennies of the children.
Word was received that the volunteers of Oregon were to be mobilized at Portland and on April 27, Brigadier-General Charles F. Beebe, O.N.G., issued special orders for the preparation of a suitable camp within the city limits. The site selected was the Irvington race track, and April 29 one hundred and sixty-one tents were pitched, the name, Camp McKinley, adopted and on the morning of April 30, 1898, the first company arrived and active camp life began.
Members of the different committees of the Emergency Corps visited the camp daily, consulting with the commanding officers as to the health, comfort and needs of the soldiers in their charge. Open house was kept at headquarters for the volunteers when in the city and everything human ingenuity could suggest and loving hearts contribute to smooth the pathway from comfortable civil life to the hardship and discipline of camp life was done. This was not planned nor worked out by one person but by united effort on the part of all, whose kindly ministrations grew out of a desire to cheer and encourage these brave Oregon volunteers—the flower of the State—who had given up home and position, offering their lives to their country in the noble work of liberating an oppressed and outraged people.
Meantime circular letters had been sent to the cities and towns throughout the State urging the patriotic women to form auxiliaries for the purpose of raising money to swell the regimental fund and also help in
Hood River was the first to respond with Roseburg, Pendleton, Corvallis, Hillsboro, LaFayette, LaGrande, Hubbard, Weston, Woodburn, Astoria and The Dalles, quickly falling into line. Faithfully have these auxiliaries assisted in every line of work that it has been found necessary to take up—contributions of money and supplies have been given, while in their respective localities a fund has been raised to assist the families of the volunteers. Hospital supplies of caps, fever belts and cordials are constantly forwarded, and daily, letters are received asking for instructions.
On Sunday, May 8, a patriotic and sacred concert was given at Camp McKinley to increase the regimental fund that the Emergency Corps were raising and the proceeds netted the creditable sum of $1399.35. The attendance of over ten thousand people was an evidence of their zeal and desire to contribute their mite toward the object. The program was furnished by the First Regiment Band, Miss Rose Bloch and Madame Norelli. It was a scene never to be forgotten by that vast audience when, at the close of the evening drill, the stars and stripes were slowly lowered at the booming of the sunset gun, and the long lines of volunteers, motionless as statues, listened as the inspiring strains of the Star Spangled Banner floated upon the summer air, while the setting sun, kissing the peak of the distant snow-crowned mountain, shed its departing rays like a heavenly benediction upon these sons of valor.
May 11, 1898, the first battalion consisting of Companies A, B, C, D, Second Regiment Oregon Volunteers, under command of Major C. H. Gantenbein, by order of the War Department, left for San Francisco and one week later, May 16, Companies E, F, G, H, I, K, L and M, under command of Colonel O. Summers, broke camp and proceeded to join the others at the Presidio to await transportation to Manila.
To the captains of these respective companies, the Oregon Emergency Corps gave one hundred dollars in gold coin as an emergency fund. To Major M.H. Ellis, commanding regimental surgeon in charge of the Hospital Corps, was given one hundred dollars, also eight hundred yards of flannel for bandages. In addition to this, contributions from other sources made the available amount fully two thousand dollars.
After the departure of the volunteers for San Francisco the headquarters were transferred from First street to the Armory which the military board turned over to the Emergency Corps for their use.
On May 14 an offer was made by the firm of Lipman, Wolfe & Co., to turn over their department store to the Emergency Corps upon any date they might select. The entire charge of this establishment was to be assumed by the organization for one day—ten per cent of all sales to go to the regimental fund. To this generous offer was added the privilege of serving a mid-day lunch and introducing other suitable features that would help to swell the treasury. This offer was unanimously accepted and on May 17 the most novel scene ever witnessed in Portland’s business history, was presented. Women, prominent in charitable and philanthropic work, leaders of society, sedate and stately matrons, assumed control of the various departments of this large business house, acting as superintendent, assistant superintendent, cashier and floor managers, while a hundred or more of Portland’s fair daughters from early morning till late at night stood behind the counters serving customers. The store was gaily decorated with flags, bunting and roses; music was furnished by the Kinross Orchestra and Columbia Mandolin Quartette. Thousands of purchasers who had waited for this day surged back and forth through the aisles, crowded stairways and elevators in their haste to give their ten per cent to the soldiers’ fund. The East Indian department which was transformed into a most enticing restaurant proved inadequate to the demand, as hundreds whom it was impossible to serve, were turned away. The result proved the success of the venture, one thousand dollars being added to the treasury of the society while the remark made by the senior member of the firm that it had “been the happiest day in a business career of over thirty-five years,” left no other conclusion than that a twofold blessing follows such generous deeds.
After the departure of the Second Regiment for San Francisco the Emergency Corps continued the work of its supply department in meeting the wants of the soldiers—not only Oregon volunteers but all or any needing assistance. May 23 an appeal was received from a member of the Red Cross Society in San Francisco for fever belts and sleeping caps as it was impossible to meet the needs for these articles then existing. The following telegram was at once sent:
San Francisco, Cal.
Greeting:—Count on us; will send one thousand caps and one thousand fever belts.
The Sewing Committee has continued its labors, hundreds of articles being made and furnished to the Second Regiment Engineer Corps Oregon recruits and Washington volunteers, etc.
It has been the privilege of the Oregon Emergency Corps to entertain all troops passing through Portland en route to different stations on the coast. This was at first done at the Union depot, where the soldiers were met by committees and served a substantial lunch, consisting of coffee, sandwiches, cake, fruit, etc. In this branch of work the Flower Mission, composed of twenty or more young women, have rendered valuable assistance in serving refreshments and decorating the trains. Tons of flowers have been donated for this purpose and the departing soldier has been given a bouquet of Oregon roses in addition to his box of lunch. Frequently has a letter accompanied by a box of flowers been sent at the request of husbands, brothers and sons to their distant homes, and replies received from many have made sweeter the saying, “Small service is true service while it lasts.”
After the use of the armory was tendered the corps by the State Military Board, the soldiers were met on their arrival at the depot and escorted to military headquarters and lunch served in the spacious drill hall. The freedom of the building was extended, the gymnasium, bowling alley, reading room, etc., affording rest and recreation for all.
In July the work was found to be increasing so rapidly that it was necessary to enlarge the executive staff. To this end the president made the following appointments: first assistant, Mrs. Levi Young; second assistant, Mrs. H.W. Wallace; assistant to treasurer, Mrs. Wm. Patterson; assistant for correspondence, Mrs. Edmund Nollain; assistant for recording, Mrs. Lischen Miller.
Headquarters were again established at 137 First street, to meet the request of business men and others who wished to contribute to the society and found the armory at an inconvenient distance.
An honorary membership list was opened with the fee fixed at one dollar. This list at present numbers over 300, and among the named recorded are those of Captain C.E. Clark, of the battleship “Oregon,” Hon. Edward Everett Hale, General Longstreet, Hon. Jos. E. Sheldon and Mrs. James Shafter.
The total membership of the society is 1557. Of this number 553 are members of auxiliary corps, leaving 1004 members for the Portland organization. The membership of the various auxiliaries is as follows:
| Weston | 27 |
| Astoria | 69 |
| Hillsboro | 69 |
| Pendleton | 38 |
| Lafayette | 33 |
| Corvallis | 51 |
| La Grande | 39 |
| Hood River | 21 |
| Hubbard | 10 |
| Roseburg | 100 |
| Woodburn | 23 |
| The Dalles | 80 |
Valuable service has been rendered the State of Oregon by a member of the corps, Madame A. de Fonfride Smith, who has compiled an “Official Roster” of the enlisted men for 1898. This has been entirely her own work and contains a careful history sketch of each member of the State Military Board, officers of the Second Regiment and the name of every volunteer. This little book is tastefully bound and illustrated with views of Camp McKinley and photographs of the officers of each company. The author has visited nearly every town in the State from which volunteers were recruited circulating the work, while a copy has been kept for every man whose name is recorded on its pages. Several thousand copies have been sold and the net proceeds are to be a contribution to the treasury of the Emergency Corps. In work of this kind Oregon stands alone, being the only State that is the fortunate possessor of so concise and comprehensive history of its brave sons.
Up to the time of the departure of the Oregon recruits for San Francisco, there had been an ample field for the labors of the Oregon Emergency Corps in its local work, but it became evident that in order to carry out the promises of continued care and attention to the volunteers while in the service of their country; to assist in the relief work of furnishing supplies for the hospital ships or sending nurses to care for the sick at Manila it was now necessary to have governmental protection. This could only be obtained through the agency of the Red Cross Society and the question of expediency in this direction was considered. On July 23, Judge Joseph Sheldon visited Portland in the interests of the American National Red Cross. In an address before the Emergency Corps he presented the advantages resulting to the relief societies of the different States through co-operation with this national body, advising affiliation as soon as possible. Action was deferred on the part of the society till the next regular meeting in order that members might be given an opportunity to investigate for themselves. Meanwhile, the executive board held several conferences with Judge Sheldon relative to their power to continue local work, and their obligations as an organization to the national committee. At a
Reports having been received of the sickness and general discomfort of the Oregon recruits at Camp Merritt, the Society, at a meeting held August 6, voted to send the president, Mrs. H.E. Jones, and Mrs. Levi Young to visit the recruits and inquire into the matter. They proceeded at once to San Francisco, spending two weeks in investigating conditions and doing whatever their judgment advised to make more comfortable their unpleasant surroundings. These recruits, whom it was expected would be sent at once to their officers and regiment, turned out veritable military orphans stranded at Camp Merritt and left for weeks to the care of young officers from other regiments. Happily this condition is changed, as on the twentieth of August they were turned over to the command of an able and experienced officer, Major Goodale, of the Twenty-third U.S. Infantry. They have since been moved to the Presidio, where surroundings are pleasanter, pending orders for their transportation to their own regiment at Manila or return to their homes.
During their stay in San Francisco the representatives of the Oregon Emergency Corps and Red Cross Society were enabled to look into the various lines of relief work of the California society. Many courtesies were extended by the officers of the State and local associations, valuable suggestions were received, and it was also their privilege to attend the meeting of the State Association, held in Golden Gate hall, and listen to Judge Sheldon’s able address upon the American National Red Cross.
It gives us pleasure to publicly acknowledge the unbounded gratitude of the Emergency Corps of Portland for the many kindnesses bestowed by the women of the California Red Cross upon the soldiers from Oregon. First, for their attention to the Second Regiment Volunteers, who, though with them but a few weeks, were the recipients
In the space of this article it is impossible to mention in detail the many contributions from patriotic citizens throughout the State of Oregon. Gifts from corporations, business houses, independent leagues and individuals bear testimony to the interest all feel in this great relief work, and their confidence in the Red Cross Society, through which their offerings are dispensed. The press has been our staunch and valued friend, freely giving editorials and space to further the cause.
There are no salaried officers, men and women having generously given their time from the first day of organization to the present. It has been the aim of the officers to faithfully and conscientiously discharge their duties, realizing the great responsibility and confidence reposed in them.
Each month a carefully prepared report of the proceedings, receipts and disbursements of the society has been given the public, and the treasurer’s report here appended is in full from April 26 to November 5.
The work of the organization will be carried on in future, as in the past, along every line which best serves the interest of those for whose benefit it was begun. The treasurer’s report shows: receipts, $7,526.03; disbursements, $6,389.54; balance on hand, $1,136.49.
THE RED CROSS OF WASHINGTON STATE.
Extract From the Official Report.
Extract From the Official Report.
The tocsin of war started in each community, from which went out the brave defenders, a desire to benefit and make soldier life more comfortable. As emergency corps, relief corps, or without name, the women went to work to do something for the soldiers. The Red Cross was a name to most known only in an indefinite way, until reports began to come in of grand work done. Not knowing how to proceed, groping in the dark, feeling our own way instinctively, we organized in Tacoma and Seattle. The Seattle Red Cross, desiring a State organization, called a convention for August 16, to meet at Seattle, and successfully launched the Red Cross of Washington.
Of the work done much of it has not been reported to the State Association, and even the reports represent only a small part of the work done throughout the State. Had all reported to a common centre Washington would have made a magnificent showing. As it was, all contributions have been sent directly to the company each city was directly interested in. Thus much relief given the soldiers materially or financially by the State of Washington cannot be stated here, as many of the emergency corps and other relief societies have disbanded since the cessation of hostilities. However, the Red Cross of Washington is effecting auxiliary Red Cross societies all over the State, and in the future all relief work in this State will be under the insignia of the Red Cross.
The Red Cross of Washington was organized on August 16, at Seattle. The officers are:
| Mrs. John B. Allen, President, | Seattle. |
| Mrs. Chauncy Griggs, Vice-President, | Tacoma. |
| Mrs. J.C. Haines, Vice-President, | Seattle. |
| Miss Birdie Beals, Vice-President, | La Conner. |
| Mrs. Lester S. Wilson, Vice-President, | Walla Walla. |
| Mrs. Virginia K. Haywood, Vice-President, | Spokane. |
| Mrs. John C. Evans, Vice-President, | New Whatcom. |
| Mrs. Francis Rotch, Corresponding Secretary, | 1512 Thirteenth ave., Seattle. |
| Miss Helen J. Cowie, Assistant Corresponding Secretary, | Seattle. |
| 807 North J st., Tacoma. | |
| Miss Jessie Seymour, Assistant Treasurer, | Tacoma. |
| Miss Marie Hewitt, Recording Secretary, | 501 North Fourth st., Tacoma. |
| Mrs. Everett Griggs, Assistant Recording Secretary, | Tacoma. |
Seattle Red Cross.
In answer to a call issued by Mrs. J.C. Haines through the Daily Press to all loyal women of Seattle, there were gathered in Elks Hall, June 20, 1898, nearly one hundred women, anxious to organize on definite lines; the universal sentiment prevailing, that organization under the Red Cross banner would result in the most effective work. The present officers are:
| Mrs. J.C. Haines, | President. |
| Mrs. H.E. Holmes, | Vice-President. |
| Mrs. Mary M. Miller, | Second Vice-President. |
| Mrs. C.D. Simson, | Treasurer. |
| Mrs. W.P. Giddings, | Recording Secretary. |
| Mrs. H.C. Colver, | Corresponding Secretary. |
An executive committee was elected, composed of twelve members, with the officers ex-officio members of the same. The constitution and by-laws were drafted and copies mailed to all local Red Cross Societies of Washington. Through the various committees much work has been accomplished, the same spirit which pervaded the organization in its infancy having increased until the membership now shows two hundred and fifty active members.
It afforded the Seattle society great satisfaction to be able to send to the national society a check for $500. To the captains of Companies B and D, Washington Volunteers, at San Francisco, was sent $350 to be used in cases of illness and other emergencies, and to the Independent Battalion, Washington Volunteers, at Vancouver Barracks, was sent $100 for similar purposes. In many instances the relief committee has drawn upon the emergency fund for the relief of soldiers’ families. Upon a half day’s notice fifty-one lunches were put up by the members for a company of volunteers on their way to San Francisco, and to a call from Major L.R. Dawson, for funds to purchase food and milk for hospital patients at the Presidio, the society responded with $100. To
Tacoma Red Cross.
The Tacoma Red Cross was the first Red Cross organization in the State of Washington, and has done most effective work. The officers are:
Mrs. Chauncy Griggs, president; Mrs. A.B. Bull, first vice-president; Mrs. G.S. Holmes, second vice-president; Mrs. Lincoln Gault, third vice-president; Mr. Chester Thorne, treasurer; Mrs. W.C. Wheeler, assistant treasurer; Mrs. Frank Sharpe, recording secretary; Mrs. H.M. Thomas, corresponding secretary.
The Tacoma Red Cross has 400 members. Receipts, $684.82. Disbursements, $592.08.
Walla Walla Red Cross.
In June, 1898, a temporary organization was effected at Walla Walla, known as the Red Cross Aid, with Mrs. J.H. Stockwell as chairman. This Aid Society cared for and entertained 229 soldiers passing through, and forwarded to Company I, several boxes of bandages, towels, handkerchiefs, etc. On September 21, 1898, the Red Cross Aid became a permanent organization under the name of the Walla Walla Red Cross and the following officers were elected:
| Mrs. Lester S. Wilson, | President. |
| Mrs. Thomas H. Brents, | Vice-President. |
| Mrs. D.T. Kyger, | Vice-President. |
| Miss Grace O. Isaaca, | Recording Secretary. |
| Mrs. Eugene Boyer, | Corresponding Secretary. |
| Mrs. George Whitehouse, | Treasurer. |
Upon notice that Company I was to start for Manila, the Red Cross of Walla Walla forwarded money and delicacies to the value of $100. Since permanent organization, the membership has more than doubled, and now numbers about one hundred and fifty. Receipts, $1,408.00. Disbursements, $1,058.00.
Spokane Red Cross.
A meeting for the organization of a Red Cross Auxiliary was called in Spokane, Washington, on July 11, 1898. Two days later the final organization was completed and officers elected to serve until the annual meeting in October:
The work of the society has been largely along the lines of raising funds for supplies, and to aid the families of the two companies of volunteers, Company O and L, both of which have gone to Manila. Supplies of underclothing, socks, towels, soap, combs, sleeping caps, fever bands and other necessary articles have been sent. Five hundred pounds of jellies were sent to Manila. Christmas packages have been sent to every man in the two companies. The sewing committee is steadily at work on hospital supplies. The membership is 173.
The present officers are:
| Mrs. Virginia K. Hayward, | President. |
| Mrs. George Turner, | Honorable Vice-President. |
| Mrs. F.F. Emery, | First Vice-President. |
| Mrs. H. Salmorason, | Second Vice-President. |
| Mrs. A.J. Shaw, | Corresponding Secretary. |
| Mrs. L.J. Birdseye, | Recording Secretary. |
| Mrs. N.W. Durham, | Treasurer. |
| Receipts | $951.78 |
| Disbursements | 355.07 |
| Cash on hand | $596.71 |
The Bellingham Red Cross was organized by Miss Birdie Beals, President of the La Conner Auxiliary. They have adopted the constitution and by-laws, selected officers and are ready to do active work. The officers are: Mrs. John A. Evans, president; Mrs. E.S. McCord, vice-president; Mrs. S.J. Craft, recording secretary; Mrs. T.J. Kershaw, corresponding secretary; Mrs. E.W. Purdy, treasurer.
The report from the Emergency Corps throughout the State is very incomplete, as many corps who have done good work have sent directly to the Company of soldiers raised in that particular town, and not reported to the Red Cross at all.
The following is an extract from the report of the Emergency Corps:
The Emergency Corps of the State of Washington, having accomplished, as far as lay within its power, the work for which it organized, has, through its officers and executive board and with the consent of its members as represented at the meeting of October 11, decided to disband.
At the time of its organization the corps pledged its undivided effort to the service of the volunteers of the State of Washington during the war between the United States and Spain. That emergency having happily ended in victory and peace, the society feels that its special work is over. To those of its members who can still devote time and strength to patriotic and humane effort, the president and the executive board cordially suggest that they enroll themselves as members of the Tacoma Red Cross society organized for permanent effort in the broad field of the nation’s and the world’s need, and when the aid and support that they can give will result in practical benefit to any cause to which it is applied.
In closing the work of this organization the officers and executive board wish to make a public report of what has been accomplished during the four months of its existence. In absolute harmony the society has worked together, members and officers alike. The following record, taken from the secretary’s last report, speaks for itself in proof of the patriotic energy which has inspired its labors. Since June 1 the Emergency Corps of the State of Washington has distributed for the use of state volunteers: Flannel abdominal bandages, towels, suits of pajamas, night shirts, suits balbriggan underwear, hospital pads and shirts, hospital pillow cases, and linen handkerchiefs.
In dissolving the bond between officers and members now remains in each heart a cordial memory of mutual interest and sympathy, respect and confidence.
To the press of Tacoma the Emergency Corps acknowledges its many obligations. To the press and citizens of the State at large it is also indebted for much of its power of usefulness and would express an earnest appreciation and gratitude. The following letter was received from Captain Sturges, of Company C, stationed at the Presidio, San Francisco:
To the Ladies of the Washington Emergency Corps, Tacoma, Washington:
It is with a feeling of almost inexpressible gratitude that the officers and members of Company C, First Washington Volunteer Infantry, try to express to you their warmest and most lasting thanks for your kind and very useful donations and your expressions of sympathy and interest. The many kindnesses of their Emergency Corps have done much to help the soldiers more easily to bear their many hardships and to more enjoy their few comforts, knowing that kind hearts are interested in their welfare.
We unite in wishing you all the reward that your noble work so justly merits.
E.C. Sturges,
Captain Commanding.
