FORT MCPHERSON, GA.

“ALMIRANTE OQUENDO” AFTER THE ENGAGEMENT.

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 connectedwith the work. Seven nurses were supplied to assist in the hospital work. Dr. Nave in his report says:

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.

U.S. WAR SHIPS BEFORE THE ENTRANCE TO SANTIAGO HARBOR.

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.

It affords us pleasure to acknowledge the uniform courtesy of the army officials, especially the commandant, Major Thomas Wilhelm, Chief Surgeon Major E.L. Swift, Assistant Surgeons Street, Bak and Johnson and Lieutenant Norman, quartermaster. Major Wilhelm had our kitchen built and fly tent for dining hall put up in a few hours after our arrival, detailed men to help whenever needed in kitchen, and with finest courtesy assured us of his appreciation of what was being done to add to the comfort of his sick and convalescent men.

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 hotelgardens, flowers for hospitals and dining table, also for distribution in hospital trains before leaving Camp Hobson.

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.

“MARIE TERESA” AFTER THE ENGAGEMENT.

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.

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.

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.

CHICKAMAUGA CAMP.CAMP THOMAS, HEADQUARTERS AMERICAN NATIONAL RED CROSS.

CHICKAMAUGA CAMP.

CAMP THOMAS, HEADQUARTERS AMERICAN NATIONAL RED CROSS.

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, althoughinsisting that the government should pay all expenses. Since that time there have been as many as one hundred and forty nurses in the hospital at one time, in addition to about one hundred and ten Sisters of Charity. These women nurses uniformly conducted themselves with decorum in the camp, and their services undoubtedly saved the lives of many patients. All the nurses, except the Sisters of Charity, were furnished through the instrumentality of the Red Cross. The division hospitals were established later in the history of the camp, and these were also supplied with suitable provisions, delicacies, medical stores and instruments, and Red Cross nurses.

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,the chief quarantine officer, gave much of his time to this part of the service, carrying continually in his boats stores of Red Cross provisions and delicacies with which he supplied those ships that were in quarantine and suffering most from lack of food. At the quarantine dock, where the sick men were landed, Captain Guilfoyle of the Ninth Cavalry rendered most efficient service in helping the sick, while at the same time enforcing the quarantine regulations.

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 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, werepurchased under the direction of Surgeon-General Hopkins, National Guard of California. As the movement enlarged and we learned the intention to concentrate large bodies of troops from all over the United States, our work expanded. The government was inadequately prepared to take care of so many troops on the coast and for some time after their arrival, to prevent positive suffering, the Red Cross Society by and with the consent of the United States commanding officers, supplied any and everything that seemed to be needed by the soldiers for their health and comfort. All of the ladies connected with the society vied with each other in giving their whole time and attention to the work, and the number of letters that have since been received by the society from the soldiers is the best evidence of the appreciation of the manner in which this work has been done. We erected a Red Cross hospital tent, supplied trained nurses, medical supplies, etc., and from that day to this the tent has been occupied by those in need of medical attention.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.

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, werepurchased under the direction of Surgeon-General Hopkins, National Guard of California. As the movement enlarged and we learned the intention to concentrate large bodies of troops from all over the United States, our work expanded. The government was inadequately prepared to take care of so many troops on the coast and for some time after their arrival, to prevent positive suffering, the Red Cross Society by and with the consent of the United States commanding officers, supplied any and everything that seemed to be needed by the soldiers for their health and comfort. All of the ladies connected with the society vied with each other in giving their whole time and attention to the work, and the number of letters that have since been received by the society from the soldiers is the best evidence of the appreciation of the manner in which this work has been done. We erected a Red Cross hospital tent, supplied trained nurses, medical supplies, etc., and from that day to this the tent has been occupied by those in need of medical attention.

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 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 FranciscoSociety, resigned from the State Board, and Mr. Adolph Mack was elected to fill the vacancy thus caused. Mrs. Granville Abbott and Mr. Ginn, of the Oakland Society, resigned, their successors being Mrs. O. F. Long and Mrs. J.G. Lemmon. Mrs. Haight, of the Berkeley Society, was succeeded by Mrs. Warring Wilkinson, and Mrs. Louis Weinman was elected to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Mrs. E.R. Dimond. The officers of the board are Mrs. W.B. Harrington, president; Mrs. J.M. Griffith, vice-president; Mrs. L.L. Dunbar, secretary; William E. Brown, treasurer, and Mrs. E.R. Dimond, assistant treasurer.

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,Nebraska, Kansas and Iowa. Applications for membership were rapidly received until we had enrolled 101 auxiliary societies. Besides these there are a number of Red Cross societies not enrolled which have aided us with both money and supplies. A copy of the pamphlet, together with a detailed statement of the work of the Red Cross of California, was sent to Mr. Stephen E. Barton, vice-president of the American National Red Cross, and soon after a response was received, expressing pleasure at what had been done and promising that a delegate should be sent to inspect our work and advise in organizing.

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,Mr. Schlott was selected to fill the position. There being four transport ships, Dr. Hart was assigned to duty on the “Puebla,” Mr. Crowther on the “Peru,” Mr. Rosenthal on the “Pennsylvania,” and Mr. Schlott on the “Rio Janeiro.” With each of the ships, supplies were sent in charge of our nurses for the use of the sick men en route.

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.We have not as yet had time to receive reports from our agent Mr. Schlott, but feel assured that the work is in good hands and that our Field Hospital at Manila will prove a blessing to many a sick boy.

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. Heexpresses himself in most unqualified terms of praise of Miss McKinstry’s work, and also of the benefit the home has been to the boys.

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 monthlycontribution, no matter how small, from each auxiliary. Many of the societies have responded, and we hope soon to hear from others. We have certain and sure expenses to meet and a variable income is rather a source of uneasiness.

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:

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